Fort Myers Beach is known for its white sand beaches, exhilarating watersports, rich history, and picturesque sunsets. In addition to all the fun found on the island, Fort Myers Beach is also a convenient ferry ride away to adventures on Key West. Choose Edison Beach House to host your Florida getaway and travel from Fort Myers to Key West with Key West Express!

Traveling from Fort Myers to Key West

Key West Express offers the easiest way to get from Fort Myers to Key West. They depart from the Fort Myers Beach terminal on Main Street daily at 8:00 am, taking approximately 3.5 hours between ports. 

Although it takes longer, you are welcome to drive from Fort Myers Beach to Key West. This trip takes approximately 5 ½ to 6 hours.

Key West Express

There are several things you need to know before hopping on the Key West Express. First, ensure you have a valid government-issued photo ID and booking confirmation number ready upon arrival. You are welcome to bring on two carry-on-size pieces of luggage, but please keep coolers, alcoholic beverages, and glass containers at home! Once you have boarded the jet-powered catamaran, you can enjoy a wealth of amenities, including:

  • Air-conditioned interiors
  • Exterior sun decks
  • Couches, tables, and recliners 
  • Full-service bar and galley
  • Flat-screen televisions
  • Magnetic travel games and playing cards available for purchase

Refer to the FAQ page with any other questions you may have about riding the Key West Express!

5 Key West Attractions

After the scenic 3.5-hour journey, you will arrive in Key West! Whether you are staying for an afternoon or a weekend, there are endless things to keep you entertained:

  1. Experience everything Old Town Key West has to offer with Conch Tour Train and let a local guide take you to top attractions like Mallory Square and the Key West Aquarium!
  2. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home Museum and learn about one of Key West’s most famous residents!
  3. Discover local history at Fort Zachary Taylor, a site that played an essential role in the Civil and Spanish-American Wars. This is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, paddling, fishing, and picnicking. 
  4. Stop at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and stroll through the glass-domed tropical habitat among hundreds of butterflies and exotic birds. 
  5. Experience dining at Sloppy Joes, a Key West tradition since the 1930s! This bar is the best place to enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, live music, and local history.

Plan Your Florida Beach Vacation Today!

Experience the best of Florida by taking the ferry from Fort Myers to Key West! When you return on the ferry, Edison Beach House offers the perfect place to stay in Fort Myers Beach. As we continue to rebuild from the impacts of Hurricane Ian, we are pleased to report our elevator and kitchenettes are now fully functional and available for guests! Please call us at 239-356-1483 to book your beach getaway with us today!