Is it better to fly or drive to Key West from Miami?

Flying is the superior choice for short trips to maximize your time, as the flight takes only 45 minutes compared to a 4-hour drive. However, driving is better if you are on a budget and want to experience the iconic scenery of the Overseas Highway.

How long does the drive from Miami to Key West actually take?

The drive typically takes between 3.5 to 5 hours depending on traffic congestion and your departure point in Miami. We strongly recommend leaving before 8:00 AM to avoid getting stuck behind heavy traffic on the two-lane sections of US-1.

Is there a ferry that goes from Miami to Key West?

No, there is currently no direct passenger ferry service operating between Miami and Key West. To travel by boat, you must depart from Fort Myers or Marco Island on the Gulf Coast using the Key West Express.

Do you need a car once you are in Key West?

You rarely need a car in Key West because the island is small, extremely walkable, and parking is both scarce and expensive. Most visitors find it easier and cheaper to use the free Duval Loop bus, rent bicycles, or use ride-sharing apps.

What is the cheapest way to get from Miami to Key West?

Taking a bus shuttle is generally the cheapest option for solo travelers, with tickets often starting around $25 - $40 one-way. However, for groups of three or more, renting a car usually becomes the most economical choice when splitting costs.

Is the drive to Key West dangerous?

The drive is generally safe but demands high attention since much of the route consists of a two-lane highway with no barriers between oncoming traffic. Patience is key, as frequent stops and distracted tourists looking at the ocean can cause sudden slowdowns.

What is the best time of day to drive to Key West?

The best time to start your drive is early in the morning, ideally before 7:00 AM, to beat the rush of day-trippers and delivery trucks. Driving late at night is faster due to less traffic, but you will miss the spectacular ocean views that make the trip famous.

How much does parking cost in Key West?

Parking in the high-demand areas of Old Town typically costs $5.00 per hour at meters, while long-term parking in garages can reach $40 per day during peak season.

Best Way to Get to Key West: Drive vs Fly (2026 Cost & Time)

Key West might be part of Florida, but reaching this island paradise feels like traveling to a different world. The 165-mile journey from Miami is famous for a reason, but it also sparks a major debate among travelers. Should you endure the traffic to experience the scenic Overseas Highway, or is the 45-minute flight worth the extra cost? We have analyzed the time, budget, and stress levels of every option to help you decide.

Drive or Fly?

If you have never been to the Florida Keys before, you should drive at least one way. The views from the Seven Mile Bridge are unlike anything else in the US. However, if you are short on time or hate sitting in traffic, flying is significantly more efficient.

Here is the snapshot of your options for 2026:

Driving: Takes 3.5 to 5 hours. Best for scenic views and budget travelers.
Flying: Takes 45 minutes (air time). Best for weekend trips and avoiding stress.
Bus/Shuttle: Takes 5+ hours. Best for solo travelers on a tight budget.
Ferry: Not available from Miami (only departs from Fort Myers/Marco Island).

The Scenic Route: Driving from Miami to Key West

Driving is the most popular way to reach Key West, and for good reason. You are not just driving on a road; you are island-hopping across 42 bridges over turquoise waters. However, you need to be strategic about your departure time.

How Long is the Drive Really?

On a perfect day with no traffic, the drive from Miami to Key West takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. But this is South Florida, and perfect traffic conditions are rare.

If you leave Miami on a Friday afternoon or a holiday weekend, prepare for a 5-hour journey. The Overseas Highway (US-1) is mostly a two-lane road. If there is an accident or construction, traffic stops completely. To maximize your beach time, we recommend hitting the road before 8:00 AM or after 7:00 PM.

The Cost of Driving

Driving is generally the most affordable option, especially for groups or families.

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Gas: A standard round trip is about 330 miles. Depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, expect to spend around $45 - $60 on gas.
Rental Car: If you are renting from Miami International Airport (MIA), rates fluctuate wildly by season. Always book in advance.
Tolls: The Florida Turnpike southbound has tolls, but once you hit the Keys south of Florida City, the road is toll-free.

Must-See Stops Along the Way

The drive is long, so breaking it up makes it much more enjoyable. You can stop in Islamorada to hand-feed massive tarpon at Robbie’s Marina or grab a slice of key lime pie in Key Largo. These stops turn a long commute into a mini-road trip.

The Fastest Way: Flying to Key West (EYW)

If your goal is to be sipping a cocktail on Duval Street as quickly as possible, flying is the winner. Key West International Airport (EYW) is small, efficient, and located just 10 minutes from downtown.

Flights from Miami (MIA)

American Airlines operates multiple daily flights from Miami to Key West. The actual time in the air is often less than 45 minutes. While the views from the drive are great, seeing the reef and islands from the plane window is equally spectacular.

Prices for round-trip tickets typically range from $180 - $400, depending on how far in advance you book. Keep in mind that checking a bag will add to this cost.

The Ferry Myth: Does a Boat Run from Miami?

This is the most common confusion we see. There is no passenger ferry service between Miami and Key West

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The famous Key West Express ferry only departs from Fort Myers and Marco Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast. If you are already in Miami, driving to Fort Myers to catch a ferry would take longer than just driving straight to Key West. If you absolutely want to arrive by boat from the east coast, your only option is a private charter, which can cost thousands of dollars.

Taking the Bus: The Stress-Free Budget Option

If you do not want to drive and flight prices are too high, a bus shuttle is a solid middle ground. Companies like FlixBus and Greyhound, along with private tour operators, run daily routes.

Tickets can be as low as $25 - $40 one way. The downside is the schedule; you are on their timeline, and you cannot stop for photos on the bridges. However, modern buses usually have Wi-Fi and air conditioning, allowing you to relax and watch the scenery roll by.

Getting Around Key West Without a Car

One major factor to consider before you drive is the parking situation in Key West. Parking in Old Town is scarce and expensive.

Street Parking: Most street spots are residential permit only. Visitors must pay at meters, which cost $5.00 per hour in high-demand zones.
Parking Garages: The Park N Ride garage at Old Town is your best bet, with daily maximums around $40, depending on the season and special events.

Because the island is only 2 miles by 4 miles, you really do not need a car once you arrive. We highly recommend using the Duval Loop, a free bus service that circles the main tourist areas. Alternatively, renting a bicycle or a golf cart is the most authentic way to explore the island.

Choosing how to get to Key West depends on your style. If you want the full Florida experience and have time to spare, take the drive. If you want to maximize your vacation time on the island, book the flight. Whichever you choose, the destination is worth the journey.

Miami to Key West: Drive vs Fly vs Boat (Cost & Time Comparison 2026)

Drive or Fly?