Full-Day trip to Key West from Sunny Isles

A Practical Look at the Full-Day Trip to Key West from Sunny Isles

This full-day tour offers a convenient way to see one of Florida’s most iconic islands without the hassle of planning. For $89.99 per person, you’ll hop aboard a luxury coach, cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge, and enjoy around six hours of self-guided exploration in Key West. While the experience is straightforward—mainly transportation with some optional add-ons—it’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a taste of the Florida Keys with minimal fuss.

What we like most is how accessible and flexible this trip is. It’s stroller and wheelchair-friendly, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers, and the inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience. However, keep in mind that this isn’t a guided tour—your time in Key West is entirely self-directed, which means you’ll want to plan ahead if you’re keen to see specific sights. This tour feels best suited for those who enjoy exploring on their own but want a reliable, budget-friendly way to get there.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided exploration with approximately six hours in Key West
• Includes hotel pickup and transportation, making logistics easy
• Optional water activities available for an additional fee
• Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, suitable for families or travelers with mobility needs
• Departure early in the morning at 6 AM, so expect an early start
• Cost-effective at $89.99, offering good value for transportation and free time

The Experience: What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is primarily about getting you from Sunny Isles to Key West smoothly and comfortably. The package includes hotel pickup from Sunny Isles, then a scenic coach ride to the Keys, crossing the legendary Seven Mile Bridge, which is a highlight in itself. Expect a 12-hour day with travel time, crossing both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, which provides impressive views and photo opportunities.

Once you arrive, you’re given around six hours of free time to explore. It’s a generous window that allows for wandering the streets, soaking in the Caribbean-style vibe, or visiting specific sights like the Southernmost Point or Hemingway’s house (although the tour itself is self-guided). The fact that this is a self-guided experience means you can set your pace—whether that’s a leisurely stroll for photos or a quick bite at a local café.

Water Activities and Upgrades
For those wanting more than sightseeing, additional experiences such as snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and glass-bottom boat rides can be booked separately. These activities add an extra layer of fun but do come at an extra cost, which can be worthwhile if you’re into watersports. Reviewers mention that these upgrades are popular, but be aware they will extend your time in the water, reducing your free exploration window, so plan accordingly.

The Journey: Crossing the Seven Mile Bridge

The real standout of this trip is the crossing. The Seven Mile Bridge is one of Florida’s most picturesque feats of engineering, and travelers often comment on how it elevates the experience. It’s a long, scenic span with open water views, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the Florida sunshine.

Travel time from Sunny Isles to Key West is around 4 hours, including the crossing. The coach is described as a luxury vehicle, which ensures comfort during the long ride. Since the tour departs early at 6 AM, you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy the drive with fewer vehicles on the road, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Exploring Key West: Self-Guided Freedom

Once in Key West, the experience is entirely up to you. Given the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere, you might want to wander the colorful streets, check out local art, or simply relax in one of the many outdoor cafes. The self-guided format appeals to travelers who prefer to set their own schedule without being tied to a guide.

A reviewer shared that they visited Hemingway’s home and the Southernmost Point, mentioning that they bought local rum and enjoyed the street artists. Another review calls it a “nice day” and highlights the opportunity to explore the area’s quirky charm and ocean views.

Sightseeing Tips: Since no guided commentary is provided, it’s helpful to do some quick research on key sights beforehand. The iconic Southernmost Point is a must-visit, as is the historic Hemingway House, especially if you’re a literary fan. The town’s outdoor cafes and street art are also worth a leisurely walk.

Practical Details: Timing, Transportation, and Cost

The early departure at 6 AM from Sunny Isles means you should arrive at the meeting point (the Newport Beachside Hotel) at least 15 minutes early. The return trip has the tour ending back at the same hotel, adding convenience.

The entire package costs $89.99, which covers transportation and the free time in Key West. Since food and drinks aren’t included, travelers should budget extra for meals, snacks, or drinks during the day. For an affordable price, you’re essentially paying for the reliable transportation and flexible exploration.

The tour can accommodate up to 55 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size without feeling crowded. The wheelchair and stroller accessibility are an important feature, making this journey inclusive for families and those with mobility needs.

Additional Upgrades and Activities

While the core offering is transportation and free time, the optional water activities are a big draw for many. These include snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and glass-bottom boat rides — all of which require additional fees. Reviewers find these options appealing, especially for those wanting to experience the ocean up close. The parasailing, in particular, is described as offering up to 15 minutes of flight time, with the option of single, tandem, or triple flights depending on your preference.

It’s worth noting that most of these activities last between one and three hours, so if you decide to indulge, your free exploration time in Key West will be slightly shorter. Still, with six hours in town, there’s plenty of room to enjoy multiple activities or just relax.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer from February 2025 summed it up well: “Nice day, visited Hemingway’s house, was at the southern point of USA, walking across Key West. And, of course, bought rum Bad Bitch (rum and Hemingway). But I would like to come back.” Their comment highlights that the trip offers enough time for meaningful exploration, even with optional activities or sightseeing.

Another review simply called it a “nice day,” emphasizing the scenic drive and the chance to walk around and enjoy the town’s quirky, artistic vibe. The mention of knowledgeable guides in reviews suggests that while this is a self-guided tour, the driver or staff are helpful with local recommendations, which can enhance the experience.

Is This Tour for You?

This trip is ideal if you’re someone who enjoys independent exploration but wants a reliable, affordable way to get to Key West without the stress of driving. It offers a balance of comfort and freedom—you won’t be rushed or guided by a group, but transportation and logistics are handled for you.

If you’re interested in watersports or specific guided tours, you’ll want to budget extra for optional upgrades. Those who value scenic drives, breathtaking views, and flexible sightseeing will find this trip a good fit.

However, if you’re seeking a guided tour with detailed commentary or want to visit specific landmarks with a guide, this might not be the best option. The early start and long day might also be a consideration if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with small children or seniors.

The Sum Up

This full-day Key West trip from Sunny Isles is a practical choice for adventurous travelers wanting a full day of independent exploration at an accessible price. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, stunning ocean views, and flexible sightseeing without the expense of guided tours. The luxury coach, accessible features, and ample free time make it a reliable, comfortable way to experience the Florida Keys.

While it doesn’t include guided commentary or meals, the opportunity to explore at your own pace, combined with optional water activities, offers good value for those eager to make the most of their day in paradise.

This tour is best for independent explorers, families with mobility needs, or anyone wanting an affordable, straightforward way to visit Key West without the stress of planning every detail. For travelers who prioritize flexibility and scenic beauty, it provides a solid foundation for a memorable day trip.

FAQ

What time does the tour depart Sunny Isles?
It departs at 6:00 AM, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early at the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort for check-in.

Where do we meet for the Key West Day Trip?
You meet the group at the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort located at 16701 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL.

Is parking available near the departure point?
Yes, parking is available in the hotel’s parking garage. Rates may vary, or you can use rideshare options like Uber or Lyft.

How long do we stay in Key West?
You’ll have about six hours to explore the town on your own, which is enough time to visit key sights and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Are there guided tours included?
No, this is a self-guided experience. Your driver may offer recommendations, but you will explore independently.

Can I upgrade to water activities?
Yes, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and glass-bottom boat rides are available for an extra fee and must be booked separately.

In all, this trip balances practicality and flexibility, making it suitable for travelers who want to see Key West without the hassle but still enjoy their own pace and personalized experiences.