Florida Keys

Introduction

Day 125 - Keys, Bridge

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The Florida Keys are made up of 1,700 individual islands which flow from the foot of Florida towards Cuba. The chain which starts around 25 kilometres south of Miami are connected by a road which ends at Key West. A drive of some 200 kilometres miles cross many bridges connecting the keys.

Geography

The Keys

The Keys are divided into three distinct areas: upper, middle and lower.

Sights and Activities

• Biscayne National Park

Events and Festivals

Weather

Getting There

By Plane

• Key West International Airport (EYW) on Key West is connected to many Florida cities.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) is the closest major airport to the Keys.

By Train

The closest train station is in Miami.

By Car

The Florida Keys start about 15 miles south of Miami on route US 1.

By Bus

Greyhound Lines stops at a number of locations between Miami International Airport and Key West.

By Boat

Key West Express runs high-speed passenger ferries between Fort Myers and Key West.

Getting Around

By Plane

By Train

There are no trains across the Florida Keys.

By Car

Many international rental companies have a wide selection of rental cars and these include Hertz, Avis, Dollar, Thrifty, Enterprise, Budget and Alamo/National. Most companies will require you are at least 25 years of age, although younger people might be able to rent cars at slightly higher rates and with some insurance differences as well. A national driver's license is usually enough, but an additional international one is recommended. For more information about renting cheaper cars and campers, traffic rules and getting maps it is advised to check the USA Getting Around section.

By Bus

The Key West Department of Transportation runs a service between Marathon Key and Key West.

By Boat

Eat

Drink

Sleep

Many of the larger keys have accommodation available. These can vary between budget hostels and motels, through to upmarket hotels.