Florida’s sunny skies, sparkling waters, and laid-back vibe make it a perfect place for full-day tours. Whether you want to cruise over the iconic Seven Mile Bridge or soak up the lively streets of Key West, there’s a tour that fits your style. I particularly enjoy the mix of scenic drives and self-guided exploration, which give travelers a taste of true Florida charm without rushing. For a relaxed, scenic experience, the tour from Fort Lauderdale to Key West offers a luxurious coach ride and plenty of time to explore, making it a top pick for those who want comfort and flexibility.
If you’re after a more budget-friendly option and don’t mind a longer day, the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood tour provides a full 14 hours of fun, with plenty of sightseeing en route. For those based near Sunny Isles, the trip leaving from Bayside Marketplace is a straightforward way to experience Key West at a more affordable price, with the chance to upgrade for water activities. Below, I’ll compare these three options, highlighting their unique features to help you decide which full-day tour suits your Florida adventure best.
1. From Fort Lauderdale to Key West Full-Day Tour
Starting at number one on our list is the From Fort Lauderdale to Key West Full-Day Tour. This tour combines comfort with flexibility, making it a favorite for travelers who want a stress-free day. You’ll hop onto a luxury coach early in the morning—around 7 am—and spend approximately 12 hours traveling from Fort Lauderdale to the southern tip of Florida. The ride itself is a highlight, offering stunning views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico as you cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
Once in Key West, you’re on your own for about six hours to explore at your pace. The self-guided aspect means you can stroll along Duval Street, check out local street artists, or relax in outdoor cafes. For those who want to add more adventure, upgrades are available for water activities like snorkeling, parasailing, and scuba diving. The tour is popular for its ease and the opportunity to customize your experience, though food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks is wise.
The tour is well-rated, with a 4.0/5 from four reviews, and travelers particularly appreciate the professionalism of the guide and the laid-back vibe of Key West. It’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and a relaxed pace. The 12-hour duration makes it a full but manageable day.
Bottom Line: This tour is excellent for travelers who want a smooth, guided trip with optional water activities, making it ideal for families or those new to the area.
2. Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood: Key West Full-Day Tour in Luxury Coach Bus
At number two, the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood: Key West Full-Day Tour in Luxury Coach Bus offers a longer day—around 14 hours—great for travelers who want a thorough experience. Departing bright and early at 7 am, this trip covers more ground and includes a scenic drive through some of Miami’s most upscale neighborhoods, like Golden Beach, North Miami Beach, and South Beach**. This makes the journey itself part of the adventure.
You’ll stop briefly in Key Largo for a quick, on-your-own breakfast, before arriving in Key West around 11:30 am. You then have about six hours to explore the island on your own, with options to upgrade for snorkeling, scuba diving, or parasailing. This tour also features a stopover in Key Largo and a drive through Miami’s vibrant neighborhoods, giving you a sense of the area’s diversity.
While it doesn’t include a guided tour in Key West, the extended hours and scenic drive are perfect for travelers who enjoy a comprehensive day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. Reviews mention the professionalism of guides and the memorable experience, though some note weather can impact plans.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full day of sightseeing with more in-depth travel through Miami’s neighborhoods, suited for curious travelers who appreciate scenic drives and flexible exploration.
$55.99 per person
3. Full-Day trip to Key West from Sunny Isles
Third on our list is the Full-Day trip to Key West from Sunny Isles, perfect for travelers staying in the Miami area who prefer a straightforward, budget-friendly outing. For $89.99 per person, you’ll join a group aboard a luxury coach that departs from Bayside Marketplace and heads south around 7 am. The focus here is on self-guided exploration: once you cross the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, you get roughly six hours to discover Key West at your own pace.
This tour is especially accessible for travelers with mobility needs since it’s stroller- and wheelchair-friendly. It’s designed as a coach ticket only, with no guided commentary during the free time, which makes it a simple, no-fuss option. For those interested in water adventures, upgrades are available for activities like snorkeling and parasailing.
Reviewers appreciate the ease of the trip and the chance to explore places like Hemingway’s home or walk across the southernmost point of the U.S. The lack of guide-led commentary means you’re relying on your own plans, so it’s best for independent explorers.
Bottom Line: A great choice for budget-conscious travelers or those who want the flexibility to explore on their own, with easy accessibility and options to add water-based activities.
$89.99 per person
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Florida
When deciding between these options, think about your budget, how much time you want to spend in transit, and your preferred style of exploration. If comfort and guided flexibility are your priorities, the From Fort Lauderdale to Key West Full-Day Tour offers a perfect blend of scenic drive and free time. For those craving a more extensive, sightseeing-focused day with Miami neighborhoods included, the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood tour provides a longer, more comprehensive experience. If you’re staying closer to Miami or Sunny Isles and want a straightforward, budget option with flexible exploration, the full-day trip from Sunny Isles is perfect.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred departure times and any desired upgrades. Consider your fitness level and interest in guided tours versus independent exploration when making your choice.
The variety of full-day tours in Florida means there’s something for every traveler—whether you want a relaxed, guided trip or an independent adventure. For a scenic drive with the option to add water sports, the first tour offers a well-balanced experience. If you prefer a more in-depth journey with Miami sightseeing included, the second option is your best bet. And if affordability and flexibility are your priorities, the Sunny Isles trip provides an easy, straightforward way to enjoy Key West.
No matter which you choose, booking early and planning ahead will ensure you get the most out of your Florida trip. These tours deliver a unique blend of coastal beauty, lively streets, and memorable moments—happy exploring!