Getting to Key West & Getting Around
Facts checked October 18, 2026
You can fly straight into Key West, or fly to Miami and drive the Overseas Highway. Once you’re on the island, a car is more hassle than help.
Flying in
| Code | Airport | Distance / link to town (source) |
|---|---|---|
| EYW | Key West International | On the island, about a 10-minute drive from downtown (Key West Chamber) |
| MIA | Miami International | About three hours’ drive via the Overseas Highway, which crosses 42 bridges (Key West Chamber; Visit Florida Keys) |
We don’t quote fares; they change by the hour. The search buttons open a live flight search to Key West International (EYW); change the dates and origin there.
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Do you need a car?
In Key West: no. The Florida Keys tourism council says Key West is “one of the easiest places in the Keys to explore without a car, especially in Old Town,” with walking, biking, pedicabs, taxis and rideshare all popular.
For the drive down: yes. If you fly into Miami, the drive is the trip. Florida’s Turnpike Extension uses cashless electronic tolls (SunPass, compatible transponders or Toll-By-Plate), so ask your rental company how they bill tolls (Visit Florida Keys).
Renting a car
If you do rent, compare the airport desks in one search rather than booking the first brand you see, and check what the rate includes (tolls, extra drivers, mileage) before you pay.
Schedules, routes and coverage change; confirm on the official page before you travel.