Key West International Airport serves as a gateway to Florida’s southernmost island. Located just off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, it connects travelers to this vibrant city known for its laid-back vibe and colorful culture. The airport handles flights from across the country, making it easy to reach Key West by air before exploring historic sites like Fort Zachary Taylor or relaxing on nearby beaches. Its compact layout helps passengers move quickly through security and baggage claim, ideal for short layovers or quick getaways.
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary. |
| Etiquette: | Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated. |
| Thanksgiving (November) |
A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges. |
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| Independence Day (July) |
Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Bolt |
| Helpful links: |
Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine |
| Other: | The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks. |
Key West International Airport is known for its friendly, small-scale atmosphere, offering a quick and hassle-free arrival and departure experience. Though it is modest in size, the terminal is well maintained and provides essentials such as car rental counters, bicycle rentals, cafes and shuttle services.
The airport experiences busy periods during winter and holiday seasons when tourists flock to the Keys. Parking is available but somewhat limited, so early arrival for popular travel times is advised. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or using taxis and shuttles is common.
Travelers should note that there are no major airline lounges here, so plan for waiting times in the main terminal. The runway's coastal proximity offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing but can be affected by weather conditions, adding slight variability to schedules.
Overall, Key West International Airport provides a unique tropical welcoming experience that fits perfectly with the island’s laid-back charm, inviting visitors to explore beyond the airport into the vivid culture and natural beauty that await.
Most visitors choose to stay in Key West’s town center, where a mix of historic inns, boutique hotels and beach resorts offer access to shops, dining and the famous Duval Street nightlife. The short distance from the airport allows for quick transfers.
To Key West Town Center:
Located around 3 km from the airport, the town centre is reachable by taxi, shuttle, or bicycle. Taxi fares are generally US$10 – 15 (£7.48 – 11.21) with a travel time of about 10 minutes. Several shuttle services operate on demand or scheduled routes. Biking is a popular and scenic way to reach downtown quickly and enjoy the island’s unique atmosphere.
To Marathon:
About 50 km northeast along the Keys, Marathon is accessible by car or shuttle, with travel times around 45-60 minutes. Public bus service is limited, so private transport or renting a vehicle is recommended for flexibility.
To Key Largo:
Approximately 160 km from Key West, Key Largo is best reached by car along the Overseas Highway. The drive takes about 3.5 hours, with options for private transfers or occasional bus services available.
