Key West is roughly 165 miles from Fort Lauderdale by road, which makes this a long day by any measure, but it is also the most popular big excursion from the city. The coach ride runs south through Miami-Dade and along the Overseas Highway across the Florida Keys, with bridge views and island scenery on the way, then drops you in the old town for free time. Visitors head for Duval Street, the harbor, the southernmost point marker and the island's cafes, shops and short museums. The tour is described as offering optional activities, so check what can be added when you book. Expect an early start and a late return, plenty of time on a coach, and a short window in town. It rewards travelers who like to see a lot in a day.
The Overseas Highway is a worthwhile experience on its own: a causeway road threading over open water and island chains for the better part of a hundred miles. From Fort Lauderdale you first drive south through the Miami area, then onto US 1 through the Upper and Middle Keys, crossing the long Seven Mile Bridge before reaching Key West. Many travelers treat the ride as part of the attraction, with bridges, turquoise shallows and roadside stops along the way.
What you get at the far end is a few hours of free time in a unique town. Key West's historic district offers old wooden houses, a lively commercial street, waterfront bars and cafes, small museums and photo stops such as the southernmost point marker. Popular optional extras on tours of this type are boat activities, snorkeling or attractions, but these vary by operator and day, so confirm what the booking includes. Whatever you add, remember that the clock is short and the drive back is just as long as the drive down.
The honest advice
This is a big day and it suits some travelers more than others. If you have limited time in South Florida and have never seen the Keys, the coach tour handles the driving and gets you there without a rental car. If you love slow travel, consider staying overnight in the Keys instead, or choose a shorter trip such as a Fort Lauderdale beach day or a harbor cruise. Bring snacks, water, sunscreen and a light layer for the coach air conditioning, and wear comfortable shoes for walking the old town.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day coach excursion from Fort Lauderdale down the Overseas Highway to Key West, with free time in the old town and optional activities offered with the tour.
Best time
Winter and spring offer the most comfortable weather; summer is hot and prone to afternoon storms. Check departure times, which are early.
How long
A full day: roughly four hours of road each way, with a few hours in Key West.
Tips
Eat breakfast before the early start, bring water and sunscreen, wear walking shoes and decide in advance which optional activity, if any, to add.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors with limited time who want to say they have been to Key West without driving.
- Families
- Doable for kids who tolerate long coach rides; build in snack breaks.
- Couples
- A big-ticket day out that ends with a sunset-town stroll.
- Pair with
- A relaxed beach day on return or a water cruise before the trip.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How far is Key West?+
About 165 miles by road from Fort Lauderdale, so the trip is a long day with several hours each way on the coach.
What will I see en route?+
The Overseas Highway across the Florida Keys, with bridges, shallow turquoise water and island scenery.
What do I do in Key West?+
Most visitors wander the old town and Duval Street, visit the harbor and the southernmost point marker, and eat at the island cafes.
Are optional activities available?+
The tour is offered with optional activities. Check the booking details for what can be added on your date.
Is it too long for one day?+
It is a long day. If you want a slower pace, consider staying overnight in the Keys instead.
