Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood: Key West Full-Day Tour in Luxury Coach Bus

Exploring the Florida Keys in a Day: Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood to Key West

If you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked getaway to the Florida Keys but short on time, this full-day tour to Key West offers a convenient way to experience the southernmost point of the continental U.S. at a glance. For $55.99 per person, you’ll hop onto a luxury coach at 7:00am, leaving from Hollywood or Fort Lauderdale, and spend around 14 hours on a trip that combines scenic drives, a self-guided exploration, and optional watersports.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances comfortable transport with the freedom to explore. The drive itself offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, making the journey part of the adventure. Plus, having around six hours to explore Key West on your own means you can soak in its laid-back vibe, visit quirky art galleries, enjoy local cafes, or just relax by the water.

However, the long duration—about 14 hours total—can be a challenge for some travelers, especially those prone to bus fatigue or with tight schedules. It’s worth noting that while the journey is scenic, it does involve quite a bit of time on the bus, and reviews suggest some variability in comfort and punctuality. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and looking for an affordable way to see Key West without the hassle of driving themselves.

This tour suits adventurous day-trippers who want flexibility and are eager to explore at their own pace, plus those interested in watersports as an upgrade option. It’s also a good fit for travelers who value professional guides and scenic drives but don’t mind the self-guided part of the trip.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a luxury coach with scenic views along the way.
• Self-Guided Exploration: Six hours in Key West to customize your day, from art strolls to beach lounging.
• Optional Watersports: Snorkeling, parasailing, and more are available for upgrade, adding adventure to your trip.
• Timing & Pacing: Early departure at 7:00am and a 14-hour day make it a full but packed experience.
• Authentic Experience: No guided tour means you can explore at your own pace, with local tips from your driver.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the guide and views, some find the trip long and less comfortable than hoped.

An Honest Look at the Key West Full-Day Tour Experience

When we think about a trip to Key West, we imagine stunning sunrises, pastel-colored houses, lively streets, and plenty of watersports. This tour offers a cost-effective way to tick off the iconic destination from your Florida itinerary without the hassle of driving or planning multiple connections. The luxury coach sets a comfortable tone, and the scenic drive across the famous Seven Mile Bridge is certainly a highlight.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early from the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort in Sunny Isles Beach, with a departure time of 6:00 or 7:00 am depending on your option. The journey includes a few interesting scenic stops in Miami, such as passing through Golden Beach, known for its private beach club, and the upscale North Miami Beach area with its high-rise condos and beach clubs like Soho House. These short stops (mostly quick photo ops) give you a glimpse of Miami’s luxurious side before heading south.

The first main stop along the way is Key Largo, about 90 minutes from Miami, where you can grab a quick breakfast on your own. This is a practical touch, giving you a moment to fuel up before the long day ahead.

Arriving in Key West at around 11:30 am, you’ll have about six hours to explore. The self-guided nature means you can roam freely—check out the historic streets, browse local art galleries, visit iconic landmarks like the Southernmost Point, or simply relax with a drink on a sidewalk cafe. This flexibility is one of the big pluses, especially for travelers who prefer to pick their own adventure rather than a fixed itinerary.

Optional Upgrades and Watersports

One of the selling points of this tour is the opportunity to upgrade your experience with watersports like snorkeling, parasailing, or a glass-bottom boat ride. Several reviews mention that these add-ons significantly enhance the trip, turning a simple sightseeing day into a memorable adventure. For instance, parasailing promises fantastic aerial views of the island and its beaches, which many visitors find well worth the extra cost.

The Return Trip and Pacing

The journey back is just as important as the way there. Some reviews note that the trip can feel dragging, especially if delays occur or if the bus is less comfortable. One reviewer mentioned that most of the 18 hours was spent on the bus, with only six hours in Key West, which might seem like a lot for some.

The driver and guide receive mixed reviews—praising their professionalism and friendliness, but also criticizing aspects like bus comfort, cleanliness, and driving style. Some travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides who provided good insights, while others found the long haul tiring or felt that the trip was slower than expected.

What’s in the Price

At just under $56, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to see Key West, especially considering the scenic drive and the flexibility of exploring on your own. However, food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning for meals is recommended. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which is a practical consideration for visitors staying outside Sunny Isles Beach.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a self-guided day in Key West without the stress of driving. It appeals to those who value scenic drives, flexibility in exploring, and the chance to add watersports if feeling adventurous. It’s also suitable for people comfortable with a long day of travel and looking to maximize their time in the Keys.

If you’re seeking a guided, all-included tour with detailed commentary and minimal self-exploration, this might not be your ideal choice. Likewise, if comfort and punctuality are top priorities, it’s worth noting that some reviews suggest areas for improvement.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Key West day-trip offers value for money and a flexible way to experience the Florida Keys—especially if you enjoy self-guided exploration and scenic drives. The scenic drive over the Seven Mile Bridge and the opportunity to add watersports make it attractive for adventure-seekers. The early start and long day suit travelers eager to pack in as much as possible, but it’s not for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or guided commentary.

The mixed reviews highlight that your experience may depend heavily on the day’s logistics, your comfort expectations, and your ability to explore independently. If you’re prepared for a full day and eager to customize your Key West adventure, this trip can be an affordable and enjoyable option.

For those seeking authenticity and personal discovery, the freedom to roam will be appealing. But if you prefer a more curated experience with plenty of insider stories, a guided tour might be better.

FAQs

What time does the tour depart?
The tour leaves either at 6:00 or 7:00 am from Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in.

Where do we meet for the trip?
You will meet your group at 16701 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Arriving early ensures you’re ready to depart on time.

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Yes, parking is available at the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort, but rates may vary. Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are convenient options.

How long do we stay in Key West?
Approximately six hours—which provides plenty of time to explore, relax, or add an optional watersport activity.

Can I do activities like snorkeling or parasailing?
Yes, upgrades are available for watersports such as snorkeling, parasailing, and glass-bottom boat rides. These are offered as optional extras.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase meals during your free time in Key West.

In summary, this full-day Key West tour balances scenic travel with freedom to explore, all at an accessible price point. It suits travelers who are comfortable with a long day on a bus, love the idea of wandering at their own pace, and want to add watersports for an extra dash of fun. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just eager to see the southernmost tip of the U.S., this trip offers a memorable taste of the Florida Keys.