What Is the Closest Airport to Key West? A Complete Guide

So you’re heading to the southernmost point of the continental United States – that’s exciting! One of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get there. Now, the closest airport to Key West is definitely Key West International Airport, which is just a stone’s throw from Old Town. But, it’s not your only option. The best way to arrive really depends on how much you’re willing to spend, your schedule, and what kind of vibe you’re looking for to kick off your vacation.

We’ve had the chance to see how each airport option works, since our team at Easy Keys Limo picks up travelers from all of them. In this guide, we’re going to give you the lowdown on what to expect from each one – the good and the bad.

Key West International Airport (EYW): The Closest Option

Key West International Airport is actually located on the island, just a short drive from Old Town and the famous Duval Street – we’re talking about 3 miles. Normally, it takes around 10 to 15 minutes to get to most hotels from the airport, depending on traffic. But if you’re planning to stay in Old Town, or near Southernmost Beach or the Historic Seaport, this airport is the most convenient option by far – no other airport can beat it in terms of location.

EYW is a tiny airport, and that’s what makes it so great. The terminal is small, so you won’t have to walk miles to get to your gate. Security lines are super short, and you’ll get your bags in no time. You can literally go from stepping off the plane to checking into your hotel in under an hour – it’s that quick. Most big US airlines fly into EYW, but they usually connect through bigger hubs like Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte, or Dallas. Some flights only run during certain times of the year, so make sure to check the schedule before you book your ticket.

The biggest drawbacks are the cost and getting a spot. Since the airport is on the smaller side and a lot of people want to fly in, prices can be pretty steep, especially during winter and holidays. You’ll also need to book your flight pretty far in advance, because they tend to fill up quickly during the busy season.

Miami International Airport (MIA): The Most Popular Alternative

If you’re heading to the Keys, you’ll probably fly into Miami International Airport. It’s a good choice because it has lots of flights, including nonstop ones from many US and international cities. This often means you’ll pay less and have fewer connections. For people coming from other countries, Miami is usually the best way to get to the Keys.

The thing that really matters is how far it is. Key West is about 160 to 170 miles away from Miami. And when you drive down the Overseas Highway, which is also called U.S. 1, it usually takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours. But, you know, traffic and delays at bridges can make the trip even longer, especially on weekends. The drive itself is really pretty, with water on both sides of the road for a lot of the way. But after a long flight, it can be exhausting if you’re the one driving.

Fort Lauderdale and Marathon: Other Options Worth Knowing

If you’re looking for another option, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is a great choice, especially when flights are cheaper or you’re planning to spend some time on the Atlantic coast. It’s about a 4 to 5 hour drive from Key West, which is around 185 to 195 miles away.

If you’re heading to Key West, the closest airport is actually the Florida Keys Marathon International Airport, which is about 50 miles away – roughly an hour’s drive. Now, this airport doesn’t have a lot of commercial flights, so it’s really best for people who already have a reason to be in the Middle Keys or those who are flying in on a private or charter plane. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, you can also fly into Key West International Airport directly, which is what many of our high-end clients tend to prefer.

How to Get From the Airport to Your Hotel

When you arrive, you’ve got a few options to get to your hotel. You can rent a car at EYW or Miami, but keep in mind that parking in Old Town can be a real challenge and often costs an arm and a leg – plus, many hotels will charge you a daily fee on top of that. Taxis and rideshares are also available for short trips around town, but you might find it tough to get one during peak arrival times or late at night, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

When you’re traveling, there’s nothing like having a private transfer to make things easier. You get a professional chauffeur who keeps an eye on your flight, so if you’re running late, they’ll wait for you. They’ll be there to greet you when you arrive, so you don’t have to worry about finding them. You won’t have to stand in line, figure out how to get around a new city, or deal with parking. This is especially great after a long day of traveling, when you’re tired and have a lot of luggage, or if you’re with kids. It’s also perfect if you’re coming in for a special event, like a wedding or an anniversary – it’s a nice way to start your trip.

If you’re flying into Key West International Airport, Easy Keys Limo can take you to your hotel, resort, or vacation rental. They can also pick you up from Miami or Fort Lauderdale and drive you down to the Keys, so you don’t have to deal with traffic. Plus, they offer rides to and from hotels, and even have limousines for special events like weddings. This way, you can just sit back and enjoy the view while they handle the driving. Whether you need a ride to your hotel or a fancy car for a wedding, Easy Keys Limo has got you covered.

Which Airport Should You Choose?

When it comes to getting to Key West, flying straight into Key West International Airport is the way to go if you want to save time. You’ll get to start your vacation right away, without wasting hours on extra travel. But if you’re on a tight budget or need a nonstop flight from another country, Miami is a good option – just keep in mind you’ll need to factor in the extra time it takes to drive from there. Fort Lauderdale might be a better choice if the prices are right, and Marathon could work out well in certain situations.

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind, no matter which option you choose. If you’re planning to travel during peak times like winter, spring break, or holiday weekends, it’s a good idea to book your flights well in advance. And if you’re driving from the mainland, be sure to leave some extra time to account for any unexpected delays on the road. Also, if you’ve arranged for a private transfer, don’t forget to share your flight number with the driver ahead of time, so they can keep an eye out for any flight delays and plan accordingly.

Getting to Key West is an adventure in itself, no matter which airport you fly into. For a hassle-free and comfortable trip, consider booking a private ride with Easy Keys Limo ahead of time – it’s a great way to start your journey.