Maybe this is the least impartial article I’ll ever write… and also the most honest one. I’m not here to tell you that Key West is closer to Havana than to Miami, nor will I dwell on the cruise port or the famous Overseas Highway that connects the Keys. Visiting Key West is so much more than that.
I want to show you the little details that make this island in the south of Florida so unique and special for those who set foot here. Key West is the rooster crowing at 7 in the morning, and another one trying to steal leftovers from a restaurant. It’s a sunset at Mallory Square (though I personally prefer it at Fort Zachary Taylor). It’s the question “Where are you from?” because almost no one was actually born and raised here.
Key West is bicycles: new, broken, or tied together with wire. It’s the pride flag, constant glitter, tutus, and live music. It’s pastel-colored houses, tourists wearing rooster T-shirts, and good vibes all year round.
For me, Key West is home. A home for everyone who visits and falls in love with it. It leaves no one indifferent, and it always welcomes you with open arms. Without further ado:
Welcome to Key West, or Cayo Hueso as friends like to call it!
How to get to Key West?
The first thing you should ask yourself is: How many days are you staying in Key West? Is a one-day tour enough, or would you rather spend the night there? Are you willing to pay for overnight accommodations on the island?
How to get to Key West depends a lot on your budget and which city you’re coming from. Most people go from Miami, but there are also connections from Orlando, Tampa, or Fort Lauderdale. In some cases, Key West is a stop on a Caribbean cruise. If that’s your case, further down I’ll give recommendations on where to eat and what to do near the port.
💡Hey! If you’re thinking about visiting other places in the United States, here’s a Chicago guide.
How to go to Key West from Miami?
Day tour to Key West
A practical and very popular option is to take a one-day tour to Key West from Miami. It costs around 65 USD and includes round-trip transportation from your hotel to the island’s center.
These types of tours give you about 5 hours of free time in Key West. It’s enough to see the classic spots, but you won’t have much time to linger at each one. Keep in mind that the island is VERY touristy, and lines form for almost everything: from taking a photo at the 90-Mile Marker to trying the famous Key Lime Pie.
If this is the option you choose, here’s a highly-rated tour option.
Drive from Miami to Key West
Driving from Miami to Key West is a beautiful option. Not only for the freedom it gives you in terms of timing and stops, but also for the spectacular views along the way. The trip takes about 4h and crosses a series of keys via the famous Overseas Highway.
Cars can be rented from 100 USD per day. You’ll need a valid international license and a credit card for the deposit.
I usually use this rental company, but it’s worth checking out TURO, an app for renting cars from private owners, often at better prices than traditional agencies.
💡 Hey! Don’t forget to make stops. Bahía Honda State Park is a hidden paradise that’s worth at least a photo.
How to get to Key West in bus
Yes, it requires a bit of patience and planning, but it’s comfortable and safe. Greyhound and Flixbus are the two companies that cover the route. The trip takes approximately 5 hours. There are several daily departures, and prices range from 25 to 40 USD, depending on how early you book. Busbud is my favorite bus search engine because it lets you filter by price and schedule, showing you the best options.
Both buses make a stop halfway through the trip, and their arrival points are different. Flixbus arrives in Key West’s historic downtown, while Greyhound drops you off at the airport.
Get to Key West by plane
The Key West International Airport (EYW) is tiny but functional. There are direct flights with low-cost carriers like Silver or Allegiant, although even on these airlines, tickets usually cost around 150 USD per leg. The best connections are often from New York and Nashville. I always check prices and flight combinations on SkyScanner.
Where to sleep in Key West?
My recommendation: stay at least one night on the island. Much of what makes Key West special happens at night: live bars, the relaxed atmosphere, and the street lights.
However, it’s not cheap. That’s why it’s essential to book in advance.
My only realistic advice? Search, search, and call to check prices and availability, beyond what the booking websites say.
The cheapest options I found are these two hostels (with private rooms or dorms) just over 100 USD. Now, if budget isn’t an issue, I 100% recommend a colonial house in the center of the island, exactly like this one.
Where to eat in Key West?
Here’s a list of little spots I loved during my time in Key West:
MISOHAPPY
The concept is Asian, with Thai dishes and a wide variety of sushi. The green curry and Pad Thai were some of the best dishes I’ve ever had. They also serve Albariño wine!
MOONDOG CAFÉ & BAKERY
Located across from Hemingway’s House, this spot stands out for its wide variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. However, for meat lovers, I highly recommend trying the burgers, which top the list of favorites for many discerning palates I know.
You can’t miss trying their bakery items! Creative croissants, cakes, and daily specials await.
THE CAFE
Vegetarian and just steps from Duval Avenue. The decor is beautiful (don’t leave without checking out the bathrooms) and the food is delicious. Fresh ingredients and freshly squeezed juices with exotic combinations. Avocado Egg Scramble Pita is my go-to at this restaurant.
OASIS
A bit further from downtown, with a super relaxed atmosphere, dim lighting, and Mediterranean cuisine. Very good prices for Key West; the typical Georgian Khachapuri is my favorite dish.
FOUR MARLINES
The restaurant at The Reach Hotel, beachfront with beautiful decor. Considered fine dining. Gourmet dishes with every detail carefully attended to; the veggie risotto is unforgettable, and the key lime pie is also a delight.
LATITUDES
One of the most exclusive spots in Key West. Located on Sunset Key (a private island in front of Key West) and accessible by a small boat arranged by the restaurant. Advance reservations are a must, especially if you want to visit during sunset.
THE DOCKS
Located in Stock Island, this is a popular gourmet spot among locals. It features a deck with harbor views, an open kitchen, and a variety of seafood dishes. Figs in a Blanket as a starter and Crème Brûlée for dessert are my top picks.
MANGIA-MANGIA
Italian pasta and pizza right in the heart of Key West's Old Town.
The portions are generous, and the service is very attentive. Reservations are also recommended in advance.
Otros que me he ido sin probar
Santiago Bodega, Blue Heaven, First Flight y Nine One Five.
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I hope you love it and get to experience the quality service I mentioned. Enjoy the vibes that I only find in Key West—the atmosphere, the sun, the unexpected rain, the golf carts, and the iced lattes. If you love Key West as much as I do… please tell me what you think!
Thank you to get this far!
Guadi.
