Key West International Airport (EYW)
Key West International Airport (EYW) is located on the southeastern tip of Key West, Florida, and serves as the primary gateway to the Florida Keys, one of the most scenic and popular tourist destinations in the United States. Known for its laid-back island atmosphere, EYW is a small yet essential airport offering domestic flights that connect travelers to major U.S. hubs. Despite its size, the airport provides a convenient and stress-free arrival point for those visiting Key West, one of the most southern points in the continental United States.
With its proximity to downtown Key West and famous attractions like Mallory Square, Duval Street, and the Ernest Hemingway Home, Key West International Airport welcomes nearly 1 million passengers annually. The airport is served by major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United, JetBlue, and Silver Airways, providing direct flights to and from major cities like Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, and Charlotte.
Terminals and Services
1. Terminal Layout: Key West International Airport has a single terminal that handles all arrivals and departures. The compact and easy-to-navigate design of the airport ensures that passengers can move quickly through check-in, security, and boarding.
- Check-In Area: Located on the ground floor, the check-in counters for all airlines are situated close to the main entrance, making the process quick and convenient.
- Gates: The terminal has a handful of gates, and the small size of the airport means that passengers don’t need to worry about long walks or shuttle buses between terminals.
2. Amenities and Services: Although Key West International Airport is smaller than most major airports, it offers several amenities and services to ensure a comfortable travel experience.
- Dining: The airport has limited dining options, but travelers can enjoy a quick bite or beverage at Conch Flyer Bar, a local favorite that serves sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, including Key West’s famous cocktails. Additional grab-and-go options are available through vending machines for travelers in a rush.
- Shopping: The Key West Mercantile shop inside the terminal sells a variety of Key West-themed souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and tropical gifts, as well as travel essentials like sunscreen and snacks.
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected while waiting for their flights.
- Outdoor Observation Deck: Key West International Airport has a unique feature for aviation enthusiasts—a small outdoor observation deck where travelers can watch planes take off and land while enjoying the Florida sunshine.
- Transportation Services: The airport provides convenient access to ground transportation, including taxis, rideshare services, rental cars, and shuttle services to downtown Key West and nearby hotels.
Transportation and Connectivity
1. Ground Transportation: Key West International Airport is well-connected to the surrounding area, offering several transportation options for visitors looking to explore the island.
- Rental Cars: The airport’s Rental Car Center houses major car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise, providing easy access to vehicles for travelers who want to explore the Florida Keys at their own pace. However, driving on the small island is not necessary for many visitors, as most attractions are easily accessible by walking, biking, or short rides.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are readily available just outside the terminal for quick rides to downtown Key West or nearby hotels. With the airport located just a few minutes from the heart of Key West, rides are typically short and convenient.
- Shuttle Services: Many hotels and resorts in the Key West area offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport. Additionally, private shuttle services are available for larger groups or passengers with specific transportation needs.
- Public Transit: While public buses are not a primary mode of transportation from the airport, the Key West Transit Bus does provide service throughout the island for those looking for an affordable way to get around.
2. Parking: EYW offers parking options for those driving to the airport.
- Short-Term Parking: Located directly in front of the terminal, short-term parking is ideal for dropping off or picking up passengers. The lot offers easy access to the terminal entrance.
- Long-Term Parking: Long-term parking is available for travelers needing overnight or extended stays. This lot is also conveniently located near the terminal, making it easy to walk between the parking area and the check-in area.
Things to Do Nearby for Visitors
Key West International Airport’s prime location makes it the perfect starting point for exploring the island’s many attractions. Whether you’re on a quick visit or planning an extended stay, there are plenty of things to do nearby.
1. Duval Street: Just a short ride from the airport, Duval Street is the heart of Key West’s entertainment and nightlife. Known for its lively atmosphere, Duval Street is lined with bars, restaurants, galleries, and shops. Visitors can explore famous spots like Sloppy Joe’s, a bar frequented by Ernest Hemingway, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many local eateries. Duval Street is also home to Key West’s annual festivals and events, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the island’s vibrant culture.
2. Mallory Square and Sunset Celebration: Located about 10 minutes from the airport, Mallory Square is one of Key West’s most popular attractions, especially during the daily Sunset Celebration. Each evening, locals and visitors gather at the square to watch the sun dip into the Gulf of Mexico. The Sunset Celebration features street performers, food vendors, and local artists selling crafts, creating a festive and picturesque atmosphere.
3. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Literature lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, located just a few minutes from the airport. This historic home was where the famous author lived during the 1930s, and it has since been turned into a museum showcasing Hemingway’s life and work. The property is also home to dozens of polydactyl (six-toed) cats, descendants of Hemingway’s pets, which are a popular attraction in their own right.
4. Southernmost Point: A short drive from the airport, the Southernmost Point Buoy marks the southernmost point in the continental United States. This colorful landmark is a popular photo spot for visitors to Key West, and its location along the waterfront makes it a picturesque stop during any trip to the island.
5. Smathers Beach: Located just a mile from the airport, Smathers Beach is Key West’s largest public beach. Known for its palm-lined shore and calm waters, Smathers Beach is a great place to relax, swim, or enjoy water activities like paddleboarding and jet skiing. The beach offers picnic areas, restrooms, and rental kiosks for beach chairs and umbrellas, making it an ideal spot for a day by the water.
6. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: For history buffs and beach lovers alike, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The park is home to a Civil War-era fort that visitors can tour, as well as one of the best beaches in Key West. The park’s shaded picnic areas, snorkeling spots, and walking trails make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
7. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: Just a short drive from the airport, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can walk through lush tropical gardens filled with hundreds of butterflies. The conservatory also features colorful birds and other wildlife, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers and families with children.
Vicinity of Key West International
Dining and Shopping at EYW
1. Dining Options: While Key West International Airport is small, it offers a few dining options for travelers looking for a meal or snack.
- Conch Flyer Bar: This airport restaurant offers a taste of Key West, serving local favorites like conch fritters, sandwiches, and tropical cocktails. It’s a great spot to enjoy a quick bite or drink before boarding your flight.
- Vending Machines: For those in a hurry, the airport also has vending machines stocked with snacks, drinks, and other grab-and-go items.
2. Shopping: Though the shopping options are limited at EYW, passengers can still find souvenirs and travel essentials.
- Key West Mercantile: This small shop inside the terminal sells a variety of Key West-themed merchandise, from t-shirts and caps to beachwear and island-inspired gifts.
Important Links (Suggest / Report)
- Key West International Airport Official Website
www.keywestinternationalairport.com
Find real-time flight information, terminal maps, and ground transportation details. - Parking and Ground Transportation
https://eyw.com/public-parking
Learn more about parking options, rental cars, and shuttle services at EYW. - Things to Do in Key West
www.fla-keys.com/key-west
Explore things to do, events, and places to visit in Key West and the Florida Keys.
Additional Details
- Location: 3491 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040.
- Public Transportation: The Key West Transit Bus offers routes connecting the airport to downtown and other parts of the island.
- Parking: EYW provides short-term, long-term, and valet parking, with easy access to the terminal from all parking areas.
- Accessibility: Key West International Airport is fully accessible, with services for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and accessible parking.
