Ft Lauderdale to Key West with Optional Activities

Imagine a full day of Florida sunshine, stunning bridges, and tropical vibes—all for just $99 per person. This tour takes you from Fort Lauderdale through the winding Florida Keys, across 42 bridges including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, and into the colorful world of Key West. With about six hours on the island, plus optional upgrades like snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, or a trolley tour, it’s a package that appeals to those craving a taste of island life without overnight bookings.

Two things we love about this trip? First, the scenic drive through the Keys is genuinely impressive—particularly crossing the Seven Mile Bridge. Second, the flexibility of optional activities means you can tailor your experience, whether you want underwater exploration or a scenic tour of Old Town. That said, a possible drawback is the long bus ride—around four hours each way—which can feel tiring, especially if the bus experiences mechanical issues or the AC isn’t working well.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full day of travel, want to experience Key West’s highlights, and enjoy mixing sightseeing with water adventures. If you’re looking for a straightforward day trip with the chance to customize your experience, this could be a perfect fit—just be prepared for the bus ride and some busy crowds.

Key Points

• Scenic Drive: The journey through the Florida Keys across 42 bridges offers unforgettable views.
• Flexible Options: You can add water activities like snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat, or enjoy a narrated trolley or train tour.
• Cultural Highlights: Key West’s notable sites include Mallory Square, the Hemingway House, and the Southernmost Point.
• Time Management: Six hours on the island means a busy but manageable schedule with optional upgrades.
• Transport Logistics: Pickup from Fort Lauderdale is included, but watch out for potential issues like bus breakdowns or delays.
• Authentic Experience: The trip offers a glimpse of island life, with authentic local spots like Hogs Breath Saloon and Bahama Village Market.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Out: From Fort Lauderdale to the Keys

The adventure kicks off early at 6:15 am from the Four Points by Sheraton in Dania Beach. The bus ride lasts about four hours, crossing the Upper and Middle Florida Keys. The drive is quite scenic—particularly if you appreciate bridges and ocean views. You’re likely to stop once for a quick bathroom and snack break, giving you a brief chance to stretch your legs before hitting the islands.

Some travelers have noted the trip can be a bit long on the bus. One reviewer mentioned, “Too long on the bus at 30-45 mph,” but praised the knowledgeable guides and drivers for making the journey smoother and safer. Keep in mind, the bus ride isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the experience, offering views and commentary along the way.

Crossing the Bridges and Arriving in Key West

The highlight of the journey? Crossing the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the most recognized spans in Florida. As we loved, “the trip across the islands, the 7-mile bridge, and the beautiful scenery” is a memorable part of the day. The scenery is lush, with ocean vistas on both sides, and a sense of traveling through one of the most picturesque parts of the state.

Upon arrival around 11:30 am, you’re given about six hours to explore. The main hub is Mallory Square, where street performers, vendors, and the sunset celebrators create a lively atmosphere. The proximity of key attractions, like Hemingway’s House, the Southernmost Point, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, makes it easy to see quite a bit in limited time.

Exploring Key West’s Highlights

As we found, “Key West was fun!” and “Lily was a great host,” it’s clear that having a friendly guide enhances your experience. Many visitors enjoy wandering the streets, shopping, or grabbing a bite at local spots like Hogs Breath Saloon. The historic Old Town area is full of colorful architecture, quirky shops, and lively bars.

You might also want to check out the Key West Aquarium or Shipwreck Treasures Museum, especially if you’re interested in maritime history. For a more relaxed tour, the Conch Train offers a narrated 75-minute journey covering much of the island’s history and sights, with stops at key locations.

Optional Water and Land Adventures

The fun truly begins if you opt for the upgraded activities. These include:

• A 90-minute Conch Tour Train—a great way to get an overview of Key West.
• The hop-on hop-off trolley tour—which allows you to explore at your own pace with guided commentary.
• A 3-hour snorkeling cruise to the Florida Reef—the only living coral barrier reef in the continental US. Imagine floating over vibrant coral and colorful fish, with all gear and drinks included.
• A glass-bottom boat ride—a relaxing two-hour cruise offering underwater views without getting wet.
• A parasailing adventure—for those craving an aerial view of the island and waters.

One reviewer commented, “Worth the price for a wonderful time on the water,” appreciating the quality of the boat ride and crew. It’s worth noting that weather conditions do impact availability—if it’s too windy or stormy, some water excursions may be canceled.

Returning to Fort Lauderdale

Departing Key West is scheduled for 5:45 pm, ensuring you have enough time to enjoy your activities and grab some dinner. The bus ride back takes about four hours, arriving in Fort Lauderdale late in the evening. While most travelers find the trip rewarding, a few reviews mention delays or bus issues—like breakdowns or uncomfortable conditions—that can affect your overall experience.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

What makes this trip appealing are the authentic moments—chatting with guides, tasting local drinks, and marveling at the scenery. “The scene of the island was wonderful,” one traveler remarked, underscoring that the trip offers more than just ticking off sights.

However, it’s wise to prepare for certain challenges. The long bus ride can be draining, especially if the AC isn’t working well or if the bus breaks down, as some reviews have pointed out. Also, the crowds can be busy, and some activities like snorkeling or boat rides might be canceled due to weather—so flexibility is key.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a bathing suit if you plan to swim or snorkel. If you’re interested in parasailing, you’ll need a government-issued ID, and participants must be able to swim. Consider your stamina for the full day’s travel—this tour suits those who can handle a lengthy journey but want to maximize their experience with optional activities.

The Sum Up

This Fort Lauderdale to Key West day trip offers a practical way to explore one of Florida’s most iconic islands without the hassle of overnight planning. Its strengths lie in the scenic drive, the variety of optional water and land tours, and the chance to visit key sights like Hemingway’s house and Mallory Square. The guides and drivers generally receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, helping to make the long day more enjoyable.

While the bus ride can be taxing—particularly if you encounter mechanical issues or delays—it’s a small price to pay for a glimpse into the laid-back, tropical charm of Key West. The optional activities especially add value if you love being in the water or want a more in-depth experience of the island’s marine life.

This tour is ideal for energetic travelers who want a taste of Key West’s highlights and are comfortable with a full day of travel and some unpredictability. It’s also great for families or groups seeking a flexible itinerary with a mix of sightseeing, history, and water fun.

FAQs

What is the departure point for the Fort Lauderdale to Key West tour?
It departs from Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport at 1900 Stirling Rd, Dania Beach.

At what times does the tour arrive and leave Key West?
You’ll arrive around 11:30 am and depart at approximately 5:45 pm, giving you roughly six hours to explore.

Where does the tour drop us off in Key West?
The drop-off location is at 908 Caroline St., conveniently located close to many attractions.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel if you plan to swim or snorkel.

Are there any stops on the way?
Yes, there’s a quick stop during the drive for bathroom and snacks.

How long is the snorkeling tour?
If you select snorkeling, expect about three hours exploring the reef from a comfortable catamaran.

Can I participate in activities if I don’t know how to swim?
Participants must be able to swim to join snorkeling or parasailing.

What does the hop-on hop-off trolley include?
It provides a narrated tour with stops at key sites, allowing flexible exploration of the island.

Is the glass-bottom boat ride suitable for everyone?
Yes, it’s a two-hour cruise with underwater views, ideal for those who prefer staying dry.

In sum, this tour balances the charm of Key West with the realities of a busy day. It offers a good value with options to customize, making it suitable for those eager to experience the essence of the island with some water adventures thrown in. Just pack patience and an adventurous spirit—and you’re set for a memorable Florida day trip.