Slow Down, This ain’t the Mainland: Your Guide to Getting Around Key West Without A Car

Getting around Key West isn’t too difficult, after all it is an island. Speed limits are low, people are friendly and you’ll probably see a few bumper stickers with the tagline “Slow Down, this ain’t the mainland.” At Last Key Realty, we’ve come up with a guide – for those vacationing without a vehicle or for those that want to ditch their vehicle – to get you around Key West in the style that best fits your island experience.

Ride A Bike

The quintessential mode of island life transportation is biking. Most streets in Key West have designated bike lanes, making cycle commutes safe and easy. However, be sure to keep your wits about you and watch out for traffic. Key West has a long history of being a bike-friendly community. Many locals take pride in dressing up their “conch cruisers” and rig them with distinct character, flair and fabulousness. Just remember to always use bike lights at night, and to lock up your bike when making a pit stop downtown. Renting a home without parking for a vehicle? Bike racks are located all around Key West, and most LKR vacation homes have designated space for locking up your bicycle when you aren’t out cruising around. If your bike won’t fit nicely in the overhead bin or safely under the seat in front of you, don’t worry, our Concierge Team will be happy to help you secure two wheels during your time in paradise. They can even arrange for bike delivery to your Key West vacation home, so that you won’t have to waste valuable vacation time. Not the most confident on a bike? You can always snag a three-wheeled adult beach cruiser for an easy ride around town, plus these tri-cycles feature ample basket space. This set-up is perfect for a “beverage” run or a quick trip to the local grocer, Faustos, for the essentials.

Hop on a Scooter

There’s nothing like scootin’ around town with your hair blowing in the wind. Driving a scooter is quicker than riding a bike, yet more convenient than driving a car. Key West is very scooter-friendly and scooter/moped parking is a breeze – especially in Old Town. Plus, you really get to see more of the island up close when riding a scooter compared to driving a car. Reserve a scooter for your stay through our Concierge Team, who will offer to shuttle you to your scooter pick-up location.

On Foot

Get your steps in! Nothing is “too far” to walk in Key West. At only 2-miles by 4-miles, walking the entire island can be accomplished in a single day. Walking is a safe option (especially after you’ve hit a few happy hours) and it allows you to soak in and marvel the island’s beautiful architecture.

Ride Sharing

Now that Uber, Lyft, and other Ride Sharing Services have made their way to Key West, enjoy the convenience of a quick ride around town just by using your smartphone. Ride sharing is a great option after hitting the bars on Duval Street or for a prompt fast trip to and from the airport. Ride sharing is the perfect option for reaching locations that may be a bit far for a bike ride or a walk without having to rent a vehicle for your entire stay.

Duval Loop

As of August 31st, Key West will offer a circulator bus ride to your favorite stops on and around Duval Street. Tentatively called the “Duval Loop,” this complimentary bus service consists of a sixteen stop route. The Duval Loop is part of the city’s “Car Free Key West” initiative to eliminate cars and ease congestion in the heart of Old Town Key West. Check out the official Duval Loop website for pickup times and stops. You can also search for one of our amazing vacation rentals on Duval Street, or rentals near Duval Street.

Pedicab

Pedicabs are three-wheeled vehicles that seat two passengers in a hooded cab behind the driver, who operates it using pedals. You will see them riding up, down, and around Duval Street constantly, and hopping in one to get from one bar or attraction to the next is a relaxing and fun way to get around. It’s also a great way to see the island while letting the pedicab driver do all the work.

For any other questions, or to find a Key West Vacation Rental, just contact us at Last Key Realty.