Key West on a budget

Key West has a reputation for being a getaway that is glamorous and expensive. It was indeed the place where Ernest Hemingway and President Harry S. Truman came to chill out, but it is also the land of Jimmy Buffett and Margueritaville.

The reputation for being expensive is true. The area is small and the demand is large, this will result in higher prices. However, there are many ways to travel to Key West and keep your expenses within your budget.

Understanding Key West

Key West is an island. It is the farthest of the Keys from Miami, more than 150 miles. Most of the road is a two-lane highway that works its way through the Keys. If you drive from Miami, it will take over three and a half hours. You can choose to arrive by plane, ferry or cruise ship if the drive doesn't sound like fun. 

Cruising into Key West

One of the most budget-friendly ways to visit Key West is on a cruise. You will pull into port, hop off and see the city on your own or take one of the tours that are offered. You can take a trolley, hop on the conch train, rent a bicycle or the most budget-friendly way of all, walking. The downtown area is small and walking is not going to wear you out.

Rent a condo

Accommodations are one of the big expenses on Key West. One way to minimize the amount that you spend is to rent a condo. This will not only save you money but it will give you extra space making it a particularly family-friendly option. Car rentals are expensive and it may be a more budget-friendly option to explore on a bicycle. Cabs are also easy to call and not too expensive.

Eating on a budget

Key West offers lots of dining options. If you opt for a condo you will be able to buy groceries for some of your meals and cook in. Grab the ingredients and make a picnic or just try to go a little away from the main tourist area. These strategies will allow you more money for the exploring part of your visit to Key West. You will want to explore the water on Key West and bringing your own snorkeling equipment with you will be much more budget friendly than renting.

Others ways to explore Key West

By renting a condo and cooking meals in you will save enough money to allow for a little splurge in your budget. One way to splurge is to explore the ocean with a jet ski. You can rent these by the hour and get a totally different view of the sparkling water and the beautiful sunsets. Another way to explore Key West is to get out and try parasailing. If these are a little too much for you, why not take a catamaran or sailboat tour.

Key West is a fantastic place to explore. Miles of beaches and almost continual sunshine beckon. Some of the most gorgeous sunsets in the world and sparkling blue water are yours to see for free. With careful planning, you will be able to do everything you want to and still visit Key West on a budget.