How to get to the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a 130-mile long island chain located about an hour south of Miami. This location makes it very easy to travel to this tropical paradise in the United States, and why it is the destination for millions of visitors each year.

Travel by Land

There is only one way in and one way out of the Florida Keys and that's by the southern most part of U.S. Highway 1, better known here in the Florida Keys as the Overseas Highway, which links this beautiful island chain to the mainland. Highway 1 runs all the way from Fort Kent Maine at the Canadian border all the way down to Key West Florida 130 miles south of Miami Florida and just 94 miles from Cuba. The Overseas highway is a man made wonder that is full of natural beauty. Crystal clear waters and pristine beaches on both sides of the road lead to ever-changing scenery of the seas and wilderness. It is a truly beautiful stretch of road that seems to head right into the sea as you watch the magnificent sunrises and sunsets. The drive from Miami to Key West will take you approximately 3 ½ to 4 hours, but plan on a little longer because this is the only road in and out so traffic can get backed up. But fear not if that happens; just relax and enjoy the tropical beauty that you will only find here in the Florida Keys.

If you are planning to drive down to the Florida Keys from wherever you may live it is very easy. As you are leaving Miami just follow the U.S. Highway 1 towards Homestead and then on to the Florida Keys. Once you are on the Overseas Highway You will pass through each area of the Florida Keys; Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Lower Keys/Big Pine Keys, and Key West. There are activities, festivals and accommodations at all of these locations. Check this directory to plan your perfect trip to the Florida Keys.

There are also a few charter buses that leave from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and the Miami International Airport and stop at six different areas in the Florida Keys, and will drop you at your destinations. If you do not feel like driving this is a great option. It is also a great option for the business traveler only coming down for a day or two. If you prefer you can rent a car and drive down. Just as if you are driving your own car prepare for traffic and enjoy the beautiful views of pristine beaches, laid back towns and crystal clear waters. Again check this directory for a list of the rental cars, accommodations and other activities that will make your stay here in the Florida Keys memorable.

Travel by Air

There are a few options for flying to the Florida Keys. With two international airports only hours away flying into either Miami International Airport or the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport are both great ways to start your trip to the Florida Keys. Several major air carriers schedule regular service to both of the smaller airports located in the Florida Keys, the Key West International Airport and the Marathon Airport, from Miami International Airport. There are other smaller airlines and charter services that have specific flights to both of the smaller airports in the Florida Keys from destinations throughout Florida and the Bahamas. These smaller airports are also the perfect place to charter a private flight into the Florida Keys.

Use this guide to find the best way to for you to fly into S. Florida and then continue your trip via land, or to just fly directly to Key West or Marathon.

Travel by Sea

If you are more adventurous you can take the Key West Express, a high-speed ferry that will take you from Fort Meyers Beach and Marco Island on the western coast of the Florida Gulf Coast right to Key West in only a few hours. Relax in air-conditioned comfort or go out and lounge on the spacious sun deck. There is an on board bar that offers snacks and cocktails and has a big screen television so you can start the party early on the Ferry. When you make it to Key West you are ready to join in the fun.

You can also charter boats and yachts to leisurely explore the Florida Keys and all the wonders and beauty that these magical islands have to offer. Fish in some of the best waters in the world, scuba dive in crystal clear water or just relax in the sun and dock at the many cities along the way to Key West or beyond.

No matter what way you decide to visit this beautiful paradise, via LAND, AIR or SEA our guide has all the information that you need to find the perfect way to get down here to the Florida Keys.