You've probably seen the photos of that chunky concrete buoy marking the "Southernmost Point" of the continental U.S. and thought, "Yeah, I need to be there." But getting your hands on a chilled slice of authentic key lime pie involves a bit more than just pointing your car south and hoping for the best.
Honestly, finding key west florida directions is pretty straightforward—there's literally only one road in—but the nuance of how you get there changes everything. You can drive, fly, or even take a high-speed ferry from the Gulf coast. Each has its own vibe.
The Iconic Overseas Highway Drive
Most people start their journey in Miami. If you're flying into Miami International Airport (MIA), you'll grab a rental and head toward the Florida Turnpike South. This eventually merges into U.S. 1 in Florida City.
This is where the real trip begins.
Once you hit Florida City, you are officially on the "Stretch." It's an 18-mile run of road that connects the mainland to Key Largo. From here on out, you are at the mercy of the Mile Markers (MM). These little green signs are the lifeblood of navigation in the Keys. Key Largo starts around MM 108, and you’re aiming for MM 0.
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That’s where the road ends.
The drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours from Miami if traffic is behaving, but on a holiday weekend? Forget it. You could be looking at six hours. You’ll cross 42 bridges in total. The crown jewel is the Seven Mile Bridge (around MM 47). It's just you, a thin strip of concrete, and miles of turquoise water on both sides. It’s genuinely breathtaking, but keep your eyes on the road; the speed limits in the Keys are no joke.
Local police are everywhere, especially in Big Pine Key. They are fiercely protective of the endangered Key Deer, which are tiny and prone to wandering onto the asphalt. If the sign says 35 mph, do 35. Trust me.
Flying Directly Into Paradise
If the idea of a four-hour drive makes you cringe, you can fly. Key West International Airport (EYW) is small, quirky, and incredibly efficient.
- American Airlines runs non-stop flights from hubs like Miami (MIA), Charlotte (CLT), and Dallas (DFW).
- Delta frequently flies in from Atlanta (ATL) and New York (LGA).
- Silver Airways is the go-to for regional hops from Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Orlando (MCO), or Tampa (TPA).
- United connects through Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH), and Newark (EWR).
Flying is usually the priciest way to get there. However, you save a massive amount of time. You land, grab your bags, and you're at a bar on Duval Street in about 15 minutes. It’s a great option if you’re only staying for a weekend and don’t want to spend 25% of your trip in a car.
The "Secret" High-Speed Ferry
Not many people realize you can skip the drive entirely if you're coming from Florida's west coast. The Key West Express is a massive jet-drive catamaran that runs from Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island.
The trip takes about 3.5 hours.
It’s basically a mini-cruise. There’s a full bar, snacks, big-screen TVs, and plenty of outdoor deck space. It drops you off right at the City Bight Ferry Terminal in the heart of the Historic Seaport.
The catch? It’s a passenger-only ferry. You can't bring your car. But honestly, you don't want a car in Key West anyway. The streets are narrow, parking is a nightmare (and expensive), and most people just get around via bicycles or golf carts. If you're coming from Tampa or Naples, this is the most relaxing way to handle key west florida directions.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Route
A common mistake is thinking you can "speed through" the Keys.
You can't.
Large sections of U.S. 1 are only two lanes. If there is an accident or a slow-moving boat trailer in front of you, you are stuck. It’s better to lean into the slow pace. Stop at Robert Is Here in Homestead for a milkshake before you leave the mainland. Pull over at Robbie’s in Islamorada (MM 77) to feed the massive tarpon.
Another tip: check your gas in Florida City. Prices on the islands are significantly higher. While there are plenty of stations in places like Marathon and Key Largo, you’ll pay a "paradise tax" at the pump.
Reaching the Finish Line
When you finally see the signs for Key West, the road splits. You can stay to the right on North Roosevelt Boulevard (which takes you past the "big box" stores and newer hotels) or stay to the left to take the scenic route along the Atlantic ocean side via South Roosevelt.
If you take the left, you'll drive right past Smathers Beach. It’s a great way to enter the city and immediately see the palm trees and sand.
Eventually, all roads lead to the downtown area near Duval Street. If you’re staying at a bed and breakfast, check their parking situation ahead of time. Many historic spots only have street parking, and those spots disappear fast.
To make the most of your arrival, download a parking app like ParkMan or Passport before you get there. It’ll save you from hunting for kiosks in the heat. Also, consider booking a bike rental for the duration of your stay. It’s the local way to travel and ensures you won't spend half your vacation looking for a parking spot for a car you don't even need.
Once you hit MM 0 at the intersection of Whitehead and Fleming Streets, you’ve officially made it. Grab a photo with the sign and then head straight for the nearest happy hour. You've earned it.