DiveJourneyDiveJourney

Logistics · Destination Guide

Key West

Wrecks, sanctuary reefs, and sunset culture at the end of the road

Updated Dec 13, 2025 • 16 sources

View On Map

Logistics

Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.

Quick Facts

  • Primary airport: Key West International Airport (EYW)
  • Typical transfer: 5 km drive
  • Entry requirement: Key West is part of the United States.
  • Getting around: Key West is small.

Getting There

The most direct gateway is Key West International Airport (EYW), a short drive from Old Town. If flights are expensive or limited, many travelers fly into Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and drive the Overseas Highway to Key West. You can also arrive by ferry from Florida's west coast via the Key West Express (Ft. Myers Beach or Marco Island), which is a fun option if you want a car-free trip in town.

Airports

1

Key West International Airport

EYW • KEYW

5 km • 5 km drive

Key West's in-town airport with multiple nonstop routes (seasonal patterns apply). Its small size keeps transfers simple once you land.

Transport: Taxi, Rideshare, Rental car, Hotel shuttle (select properties)

2

Miami International Airport

MIA • KMIA

258 km • 258 km drive

Major hub airport with extensive domestic and international connections. Often the easiest way to find flights, then continue by drive or short hop to EYW.

Transport: Rental car, Shuttle/coach services, Private transfer

3

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

FLL • KFLL

304 km • 304 km drive

Another major South Florida option with many domestic flights, often priced competitively compared with EYW.

Transport: Rental car, Shuttle/coach services, Private transfer

Getting Around

Key West is small. Many visitors do not need a car if they stay in or near Old Town.

  • Walk and bike: the easiest way to move around the core.
  • Scooters and e-bikes: popular, but ride defensively and lock them.
  • Taxis and rideshares: useful for airport transfers and late nights.
  • Parking: limited in Old Town, and paid parking is common.

Entry Requirements

Key West is part of the United States. US citizens travel domestically with standard ID. International visitors must meet US entry rules (passport and any required visa or ESTA).

Gear Logistics Checklist

  • Most diving and snorkeling is by boat. Bring your certification card, and confirm whether your operator provides tanks and weights.
  • If you are flying into EYW, carry on your regulator, dive computer, and mask to protect mission-critical gear.
  • Rinse and dry: plan a place to rinse gear at your lodging (many dive-friendly hotels have rinse areas).
  • Dry Tortugas seaplane trips have strict baggage and item limits (for example, no dive tanks, weights, or knives), so plan that day as snorkeling and touring rather than full scuba logistics.

Practicalities

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

USD is used everywhere. Cards are widely accepted, but cash helps for small tips, food trucks, and quick purchases.

ATMs are common in Old Town and around shopping centers. Expect typical bank withdrawal limits and fees.

Electricity

120V • 60Hz • A, B

Standard US outlets. Bring a surge-protected power strip if you are charging multiple dive electronics.

Communications

Mobile coverage is generally strong in Key West, but offshore signal can be weak. Download offline maps and keep important confirmations saved. On boats, VHF is standard for marine communication. Many hotels and cafes have reliable Wi-Fi, but plan for slower speeds during peak season.

Language

English is the primary language. Spanish is widely understood in tourism and hospitality.

Insurance

Consider dive accident insurance (for example, DAN) even if you have US health coverage, since evacuation and hyperbaric treatment can be expensive. Travel insurance is especially valuable in hurricane season when weather disruptions can affect flights and boat schedules.

Packing list

  • Exposure protection: many divers are comfortable in a 3mm in summer and a 5mm in winter, depending on your cold tolerance.
  • Sun and wind: hat, polarized sunglasses, and a light wind layer for boat rides.
  • Reef etiquette: reef-safe sunscreen, and consider a rashguard to reduce sunscreen use.
  • Safety extras: SMB, compact whistle, and a small first-aid kit for minor cuts and stings.