If you’re considering a one-day trip from Miami to the southernmost tip of Florida, this small group Key West tour might be on your radar. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but with a solid rating of 4.6 and a detailed itinerary, it’s worth unpacking what you can expect. Perfect for those wanting a taste of Key West without the fuss of planning every detail, this trip offers a taste of beaches, historic sites, and scenic drives.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances guided touring with enough free time to explore on your own. Plus, the inclusion of iconic stops like the Southernmost Point Buoy and Hemingway’s house adds a genuine flavor of the island’s charm. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the limited free time—just about an hour for personal exploring—which might feel rushed if you’re keen on leisurely wandering.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured yet flexible day trip—those who are okay with a busy schedule but still want some freedom to choose their activities. If you’re after a rundown with knowledgeable guides, this could be a good fit. Travelers looking for a low-key, relaxing day might want to consider other options, but for a taste of Key West’s highlights, it’s quite practical.

Key Points

Balanced itinerary: Combines guided tours and free time for flexibility
Highlights: Iconic sights like the Southernmost Point and Hemingway’s home
Group size: Small group setting enhances personal experience
Transport: Professional vehicles, ensuring comfortable travel
Price: Around $174 per person, includes guide and taxes but excludes some attraction fees
Duration: Full day from 8 a.m. start, ideal for busy travelers

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What you can expect from this tour

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The Drive from Miami to Key West

We loved the scenic journey along Route 1, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” This drive alone is a treat, with views of the water and islands dotting the horizon. The highlight of the drive is crossing the famous Seven-Mile Bridge, an engineering marvel that’s as impressive as it sounds. It’s a great photo op and a memorable part of the trip.

This part of the trip sets a relaxed tone, giving you a chance to enjoy Florida’s tropical landscape. Expect the guide to point out interesting sights along the way, and if you’re into geography or engineering, you’ll find the bridge awe-inspiring.

The Southernmost Point Buoy

Your first official stop is at U.S. Highway 1 Mile 0, where you’ll see the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy. This large, colorful marker is a magnet for photos, and it’s fascinating to stand at the southern tip of the continental US. It’s just about 18 feet above sea level and has been a popular photo spot since 1983.

Expect a quick, energetic visit here—probably 10 minutes or so—and then it’s onward to more sights. Many reviews mention the crowds here, especially during peak times, so early morning visits might be preferable for photos without too many travelers.

The Classic Key West Tour (2 Hours)

Once on the island, the tour includes a two-hour narrated drive around Key West. Your guide will point out key landmarks, such as the historic Old Town, local hotspots, and filming locations like the famous Seven-Mile Bridge from the movie True Lies.

This part of the tour gives you a good overview of what makes Key West unique—the colorful architecture, the laid-back vibe, and the rich cultural mix. You’ll also see the Hemingway Home & Museum, a highlight for many, though note it’s an outside visit only—no interior tours included.

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Free Time (About 1 Hour)

After the guided portion, you get around an hour of free time to explore on your own. It’s a chance to grab a quick bite, browse shops, or visit additional sites like the Truman Little White House or the Harbor area.

Some reviews mention that the free time might feel a little rushed, especially if you’re trying to squeeze in multiple activities. Still, it’s enough to soak in the island’s atmosphere, sample some local food, or take a quick stroll along the waterfront.

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Optional Activities during Free Time

A good idea is to check out popular spots like Seaside Plaza for shopping or relax on one of the beaches if the weather’s right. Just plan ahead so you don’t miss the bus back at the designated time.

Pricing and Additional Fees

The tour price is about $174 per person, which covers transportation, the guide, and taxes. You’ll need to budget extra for attraction fees like the Hemingway House (admission $35 for adults) and the narrated tour ($35) if you decide to visit the inside.

Many reviews highlight the value of the guide—who is knowledgeable and keeps the group engaged—which makes the extra fees feel justified. Remember, tickets for attractions are purchased separately, which allows you to choose whether to explore those sites indoors or just enjoy the exterior views.

What’s Good and Not So Good

The Pros

Well-organized day: The itinerary hits all the major highlights efficiently.
Knowledgeable guides: Many travelers praise the guide’s storytelling and local insights.
Flexible free time: Enough opportunity for spontaneous exploration or relaxing.
Comfortable transport: The vehicles are professional, ensuring a smooth ride.
Iconic sights: Stops like the Southernmost Point and Hemingway’s house provide a real taste of Key West.

The Cons

Limited free time: An hour might not suffice for those wanting a more relaxed pace.
Additional costs: Entrance fees are not included, which could add up if you visit multiple attractions.
Busy spots: Popular attractions can get crowded, especially during peak season.
Weather considerations: The itinerary can be adjusted for weather, which might impact outdoor activities.

Who is this tour best suited for?

If you’re after a rundown of Key West with a knowledgeable guide, this is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for travelers who want to maximize their day without the hassle of planning and are okay with a packed schedule. The inclusion of free time allows for some personal exploration, making it suitable for those who enjoy a mix of guided and independent sightseeing.

This tour might not be ideal if you’re looking for a slow, relaxed day or plan to visit many attractions inside. Also, if budget is a concern, remember that additional entrance fees aren’t included—so be prepared for some extra spending if you want to go inside Hemingway’s house or other sites.

Final thoughts

All in all, this small group Miami to Key West tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience some of Florida’s most iconic sights. It’s especially appealing to travelers who appreciate a knowledgeable guide, a well-structured day, and a good mix of guided and free time. The scenic drive alone, coupled with stops at places like the Southernmost Point, makes it a memorable day out.

While the limited free time and extra attraction costs are worth considering, the overall value seems strong—particularly given the reviews praising the guide’s expertise and the quality of the stops. If you’re looking for a straightforward, organized way to see Key West without the stress of self-planning, this tour could be just right.

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From Miami: Small Group Key West 1-Day Tour

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally suitable for travelers of all ages. Children 8 and older should be fine, but note that a booster seat may be needed for younger kids if required.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in professional vehicles, the driver and guide, and taxes and fees. It does not include food, beverages, or attraction admission fees which are purchased separately.

How long is the free time?
You’ll have about 1 hour to explore on your own after the guided drive around Key West. It’s enough for a quick snack, shopping, or a short stroll but might feel tight if you want to see many sites.

Can I visit Hemingway’s house inside?
No, the tour only includes an outside visit of Hemingway’s Home & Museum. Entrance tickets are purchased separately if you wish to go inside.

What is the departure point?
The tour departs at 8:00 a.m. from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Miami Airport South, located in the Blue Lagoon area.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers a good level of flexibility.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets and smoking are not allowed. Make sure to bring a valid photo ID to board the bus.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the guide may adjust the itinerary if weather conditions are unfavorable, but the core attractions will still be included.

To sum it up, this tour is a solid choice for those wanting to see the highlights of Key West with minimal hassle. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided insights, iconic sights, and a bit of free time to wander. Just keep in mind the extra costs for attractions and plan your free time accordingly. Whether you’re pressed for time or just want a well-organized day trip, this tour offers a practical and engaging way to experience the southernmost point of the continental US.