The journey from Key West International Airport (EYW) to your accommodation is typically swift due to the island’s small geographic footprint. Most hotels, guesthouses, and resorts are located close to the airport terminal. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the options available for a seamless transition to your final destination.
Primary Transportation Options
Taxis represent one of the most reliable and immediate options, staging directly outside the baggage claim area. Fares to the downtown and Duval Street areas are standardized, usually ranging from \$20 to \$30, depending on the location and luggage volume. This method offers the fastest door-to-door service without the need for advance booking.
Many visitors utilize ride-share services, as both Uber and Lyft operate within Key West and serve the airport. Waiting times can fluctuate based on the time of day, but they are competitive with taxi wait times, especially during non-peak hours. Comparing the estimated fare within the application before confirming the ride may result in cost savings compared to the fixed taxi rates.
Hotel shuttles offer a tailored travel experience, provided the accommodation offers this amenity. Travelers must confirm this service and arrange the pickup time in advance with the concierge or front desk. While many larger resorts include this transportation as part of a resort fee, smaller guesthouses may charge a separate rate. This pre-arranged option is convenient, as it eliminates the need to navigate logistics immediately after landing.
Alternative Transit and Rental Cars
Key West Transit offers an economical transfer option for the budget-conscious traveler. Route 3 services the area near the airport and connects passengers to various points on the island, including downtown. While the bus fare is low, the total travel time will be longer than a direct taxi ride due to multiple stops and potential transfer requirements.
Key West International Airport hosts several major car rental agencies on-site, providing immediate access to a vehicle. However, the decision to rent a car should be weighed against the island’s walkable nature and limited parking availability. For travelers focused exclusively on the Key West area, a car often becomes an unnecessary financial burden.
Scooters and bicycles are widely available for rental across the island for local movement. Using these vehicles for airport transfer is impractical, as they cannot safely accommodate checked luggage or larger carry-on items. These options are best utilized after checking into the hotel for exploring side streets.
Logistics and Local Considerations
Passengers utilizing pre-booked ground transport, including taxis and ride-share services, will find the designated pickup zones clearly marked outside the baggage claim area. This ground transportation area is designed for efficient passenger flow, minimizing confusion upon exiting the small, single-terminal building. Knowing this staging location streamlines the process of locating the vehicle after collecting luggage.
A major consideration is the constraint on parking throughout the Key West area, particularly near Old Town and Duval Street. Hotel parking often involves high daily fees, sometimes exceeding \$30 per night. Public parking is scarce and expensive, reinforcing the advice that renting a car is counterproductive. Traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during the peak winter season or around morning and evening rush hours. A short three-mile ride can extend to 20 minutes or more, so passengers should factor this into their planning.