The Best Ways to Get Around in Key West FL

While Key West lives large in the minds of those seeking a fun-filled, tropical adventure, the city itself is quite small, measuring just about 4 miles long and 1 mile wide. And that means there are varied transportation options that do not involve an automobile. Whether you're visiting for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, understanding the best ways to getting around Key West FL can enhance your experience.

With its narrow streets, limited parking, and abundance of sights to see, choosing the right mode of transportation is essential. While Historic Key West Vacation Rentals can lead you to the doorstep of your dreams, finding a way to get around the island is up to you. Read on to discover our best transportation tips.

Walking: The Most Scenic & Convenient Option for Getting Around Key West FL

At 5.6 square miles in size, Key West is a compact island, which makes walking one of the most convenient and enjoyable ways to explore the area. The island's pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with historic homes, lush gardens, and quaint shops, making every stroll an adventure. Walking allows you to soak in the local atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the tropical climate at your own pace. 

One way to explore this vibrant city is to take a walking tour, and travel website Trip Advisor shares its list of the best Key West guided tours here. Key West Art & Historical Society bills its tour as a “walk through history.”

The tours spotlight sites of historical significance ranging from maritime to architecture, from military to the industries that built Key West. Presenters are top experts in their subject matter and want to share their research with you. Find out more here.

Bicycling: A Fun and Eco-Friendly Choice for Getting Around Key West FL

Pedaling is another excellent way to navigate Key West. With its flat terrain and numerous bike rental shops, cycling is both a practical and eco-friendly option. Biking gives you the freedom to explore more of the island than walking while still being able to stop easily and take in the sights.

Many Key West bike rental companies offer daily or weekly rentals, and some even provide guided bike tours to help you learn more about Key West’s history and culture. Be sure to use the designated bike lanes and stay aware of traffic to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. 

Key West Golf Carts Provide Convenience & Maneuverability

When we think of golf carts in Florida, most of us imagine retirees chasing a white ball around a large grassy area. In Key West, these vehicles are quite popular on the streets, with even locals zipping around town to save time searching for that elusive parking spot. While streets in Old Town are limited to 20 miles per hour, golf carts can travel on any street with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less.

These island-friendly vehicles help preserve the clean environment we all come to Key West to enjoy. Golf carts are typically electric, so by choosing a golf cart, you contribute to reducing your carbon footprint while exploring the island. With comfortable seats and seat belts for up to eight passengers, fold-down windshields to provide natural air conditioning, and wide-open 360-degree views, a golf cart is a fun and practical way to explore and take in the sights.

Electric Cars a Fun & Eco-Friendly Option for Best Ways to Get Around Key West

Look mom, no doors! Electric eco-cars are fun, open-air rides that seat up to six passengers, allowing you to feel the wind in your face as you tour our island city and absorb all it has to offer. These vehicles are small enough to maneuver through the island’s streets and can be parked easily, making it a great option for getting around Key West FL.

Most small electric cars accommodate either four and six passengers, along with convenient compartments to store your souvenirs, backpacks, and purses. Many rental agencies offer electric cars and golf carts by the hour or day, providing a flexible option for getting around.

Public Transportation: The Duval Loop & Key West Transit

Key West offers a reliable public transportation system, making it easy to get around without a personal vehicle. The Duval Loop is a free bus service that runs through Old Town Key West, making 16 stops along the way. This service is perfect for tourists who want to explore the popular areas without the stress of driving and parking.

Additionally, Key West Transit operates several bus routes that cover the entire island, including connections to Stock Island and other nearby areas. Using public transportation is an affordable and eco-friendly way to explore Key West’s transportation options.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Convenient & Readily Available for Getting Around Key West FL

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Key West. These options are perfect for travelers who need a quick and convenient way to get around, especially when traveling with luggage or during inclement weather. Taxis and ride-sharing services can be easily hailed or booked via smartphone apps, providing a hassle-free transportation solution. While this may be a more expensive option compared to others, it offers the convenience of door-to-door service.

Unique and Fun Experiences: Pedicabs & Conch Tour Train

For a unique and leisurely way to see Key West, consider taking a ride on a pedicab or the Conch Tour Train. Pedicabs are bicycle-powered rickshaws that offer a fun and eco-friendly way to tour the island. Drivers often provide insightful commentary about the sights and history of Key West, making this a great option for first-time visitors.

The Conch Tour Train, a long-standing tradition in Key West, offers a narrated tour that highlights the island’s most famous landmarks and attractions. It is not only in our list of best ways to get around Key West, but it is also one of our most iconic ways as well.

This open-air train ride is both educational and entertaining, providing a comprehensive overview of Key West’s history and culture. While these options are more for sightseeing than regular transportation, they are perfect for getting an introduction to the island.

Car Rentals: Limited but Useful for Day Trips

While Key West’s narrow streets and limited parking make car rentals less practical for daily use, they can be useful for day trips to nearby attractions. If you plan to explore beyond Key West, such as visiting the Dry Tortugas National Park or other parts of the Florida Keys, renting a car might be necessary for getting around Key West FL. Several rental agencies operate on the island, offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs.

Let Historic Key West Vacation Rentals be your guide. If you dream about enjoying island life like a local, peruse our diverse inventory of vacation homes here. And for additional help with curating the perfect vacation, take advantage of our Concierge Services. Our team is a group of experienced, friendly and knowledgeable specialists who can elevate your Key West experiences!