If you’ve chosen Key West as the setting for your wedding (or you’ve been invited to celebrate one), congratulations—you’re in for something truly magical. Between the pastel conch houses, golden sunsets, and laid-back island energy, Key West is one of the most unforgettable destinations for a wedding. But before the vows and the mojitos, there’s one important question to answer: How do you get to Key West for a wedding?
Unlike some more centrally located destinations, Key West is tucked away at the southernmost tip of the U.S., which makes it feel wonderfully remote—but also means getting there takes a little planning. Luckily, there are several ways to make the journey—by air, by road, and even by sea—and each option has its own pros and quirks. This guide breaks down everything you need to know so that your journey to Key West is just as smooth (and scenic) as the big day itself.
How to Get to Key West – A Guide
Flying to Key West
Flying is hands-down the quickest way to get to Key West, especially if you’re coming from out of state or have limited time.
Flying Direct into Key West International Airport (EYW)
Key West has its own airport—Key West International Airport (EYW)—located just a few minutes from Old Town and most wedding venues. This small but efficient airport offers daily nonstop flights from a handful of major cities.
Airlines flying directly into Key West include:
- American Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- United Airlines
- JetBlue
- Silver Airways
- Allegiant Air
Flying directly into EYW is ideal for wedding guests who want to skip the drive and get straight to the poolside cocktails. The biggest perk? You’ll be unpacking and relaxing within minutes of landing. The airport is super small and easy to navigate — plus downtown is only a 10 minute drive away.
That said, flights to Key West can be more expensive than other Florida airports, and the schedules are more limited due to the airport’s size. We recommend booking early—especially during peak wedding season, which overlaps with Key West’s most popular months (November through April).
Flying into Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
If direct flights to Key West are too pricey or unavailable, another smart option is to fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). These major hubs offer more frequent and often more affordable flights from across the country.
From there, you can either:
- Catch a short connecting flight into EYW (usually around one hour)
- Rent a car and make the scenic drive down the Florida Keys
- Book a shuttle service that will take you straight to Key West (try the Keys Shuttle)
This option offers more flexibility and can be a great way to add some adventure to your trip—especially if you’ve never driven through the Keys before.
Driving to Key West
If you’re already in Florida or flying into Miami or Fort Lauderdale, driving to Key West is not only doable—it’s downright spectacular.
The route, known as the Overseas Highway (U.S. 1), winds through all the Florida Keys, crossing over 40 bridges with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. The drive from Miami to Key West takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours without stops—but trust us, you’ll want to stop.
Along the way, you can grab conch fritters in Key Largo, stop for a sunset drink in Islamorada, check out the famous Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon, or even spot tiny Key deer in Big Pine Key.
A few travel tips:
- Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, but keep in mind that parking in Key West can be tricky (and expensive). Many hotels charge daily parking fees, and downtown spaces fill up quickly.
- Shuttle services like Keys Shuttle and Florida Keys Express Shuttle are available for those who’d rather skip the drive. They pick up at MIA and FLL and drop off at your hotel or B&B in Key West.
If you’re planning group transportation for your wedding party or guests, booking a private shuttle or van can be a fun way to travel together — and share the experience.
Taking the Ferry to Key West
For guests traveling from southwest Florida, the Key West Express ferry is a scenic and enjoyable option. Departing from Fort Myers Beach or Marco Island, this high-speed catamaran takes about 3.5 hours and offers both indoor and outdoor seating, snacks, drinks, and panoramic views of the water.
It’s a favorite choice for travelers who want to avoid traffic and enjoy a more relaxed trip. The ferry typically runs once a day (morning departure, evening return), and advance reservations are strongly recommended — especially during weekends or wedding season.
A few quick ferry facts:
- Travel time: About 3.5 hours each way
- Ferry amenities: Onboard bar, snacks, sundeck, A/C seating
- Ideal for: Guests based in southwest Florida or those who want a unique, leisurely journey to the island
Just keep in mind that the ferry is weather-dependent, so flexibility is helpful when choosing this route.
Which Travel Option Is Best for You?
When deciding how to get to Key West for a wedding, consider the following:
- Flying directly into EYW is perfect for guests short on time or looking for convenience.
- Driving the Overseas Highway is ideal for couples or guests who want to turn the trip into a scenic road adventure.
- Taking the ferry is a fun, laid-back way to travel from southwest Florida, especially for those already vacationing there.
- Flying into Miami or Fort Lauderdale and combining air and land travel is a smart way to balance cost, flexibility, and availability.
Also think about your group size, mobility needs, and whether you’re bringing bulky items like wedding welcome bags, décor, or gifts. For couples, it’s always a great idea to provide your guests with all travel options on your wedding website and consider offering transportation tips or group discounts if available.
Pro Tips for Smooth Travel
- Book early: Flights, ferries, and shuttles to Key West fill up quickly, especially during wedding season and holidays.
- Check for travel alerts: Key West can experience occasional tropical weather—make sure guests are aware of flexible options.
- Encourage carpooling: If many guests are flying into the same airport, suggest renting a van or coordinating group shuttles.
- Offer a printable travel guide: Include travel options, local directions, and parking info in your welcome email or wedding website.
Final Thoughts on How to Get to Key West
Getting to Key West is part of the adventure—and no matter how you arrive, it’s well worth the journey. Whether you’re flying straight to the island, road-tripping down the Overseas Highway, or cruising in on a ferry, your Key West wedding experience begins the moment you hit the road (or the runway).
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