Navigating the Key West Cruise Port: Golf Carts, Food, and Fun in Port
It also is an often overlooked and underrated cruise port. Some cruisers skip itineraries with Key West, thinking it isn’t exotic enough. I've heard a lot of cruisers say "Why would I want to cruise to Key West? It's just Florida!"
Look, I get it. I used to think that, too. But Key West feels like its own world, with quirky charm, deep history, and great food. Trust me, it's a pretty awesome cruise port destination. While some residents oppose cruise tourism, it remains one of the most unique U.S. cruise ports. If it’s on your itinerary, take advantage while you can.
For cruisers who are fortunate to enjoy this stop while it is still an option, there are many fantastic things to do at the Key West cruise port.
Many cruise ports offer great beach day opportunities. While that’s certainly an option here (more on that below), I recommend that cruisers enjoy the incredible history and cultural experiences the port has to offer. Save the beach day for a different Caribbean port of call.
One of the first things you’ll notice when walking around Key West is the abundance of free-roaming roosters and chickens. These colorful birds are a beloved, and sometimes noisy, part of the island’s charm.
You'll also notice tons of bakeries, bars, and restaurants. In addition to its famous key lime pie, Key West is known for its lively bar scene and outstanding food. Due to its close proximity to Cuba, the Key West cruise port area has some of the best Cuban food in the U.S., making it a must-try while in port.
- Navigating the Key West Cruise Port
- Port Location and Map
- Getting Around Key West
- Key West Cruise Port at a Glance
- Is Key West Closer to Cuba Than a Walmart?
- Top Things to Do in Key West for Cruisers
- Watch my Key West Cruise Port Videos on YouTube
- Quirky & Offbeat Key West Attractions
- Best Key Lime Pie in Key West
- Beaches Near Key West Cruise Port
- Why Are There So Many Chickens in Key West?
- Nightlife at the Key West Cruise Port
- Key West Cruise Port Ship Schedule
- Video: A Cruiser's Guide to Key West
Port Location and Map
The Key West cruise port consists of three piers (Pier B, Mallory Square, and the Navy's Outer Mole Pier) all located on the western side of the island. Most cruise ships dock at Pier B or Mallory Square, placing you directly in the heart of Old Town Key West and within easy walking distance of major attractions like Duval Street, the Mel Fisher Museum, and Mallory Square itself.
Getting Around Key West Cruise Port
The Key West cruise port is highly walkable, and that's one of the things I absolutely love about it, but depending on your mobility and how much you want to explore, you may prefer an easier way to get around. Here are your best options:
Golf Cart Rentals
A popular way to explore, golf carts give you flexibility without the hassle of finding parking for a full-size vehicle. You can always book in advance, but rentals are also available near the port. If you opt to go the golf cart route, note that you must treat it like a car for parking purposes, including paying for parking in most locations.
Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley
A fantastic way to see all of Key West without worrying about navigation or parking. The trolley stops at major attractions, and you can hop on and off at your convenience.
Conch Train Tour
If you prefer a guided experience without the walking, the Conch Train offers a narrated ride through Old Town, covering Key West's top sites. This is not a "hop-on hop-off" experience, but rather an hour-long guided tour. I did this on a recent visit and enjoyed both the ride and the narration from the guide.
Walking
If you're up for it, and don't have mobility limitations, Key West is compact and easy to navigate on foot. The majority of attractions are within a mile or two of the port. On my first visit, we did a lot in one day, ending at the Southernmost Point before taking an Uber back to the port.
Ride Share
Uber and Lyft are available in Key West, and given the proximity of most attractions, rides are inexpensive. While I don't recommend Ubering between every site, it's a great option for returning to the port after exploring on foot.
Guided Tours
If you'd like to explore with more context, you can book a Historical Walking Tour or opt for a self-guided audio tour, which is a more affordable way to learn as you go.
Related: Watch all my Key West video content
Key West Cruise Port at a Glance
- Ships: Accommodates 1–2 ships across three possible piers
- Wi-Fi: Widely available at local cafes, bars, and restaurants
- ATMs: Plentiful throughout the downtown area
- Facilities: Shops, restaurants, tour operators, and restrooms at Mallory Square
- Distance to city center: You dock directly in the city center map it here
- Port Address: 201 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040
Is Key West Cruise Port Closer to Cuba Than a Walmart?
Key West is famous for being a remote island paradise, but just how remote is it? Here's a wild fact that really puts things in perspective: the island is actually closer to Havana, Cuba (about 90 miles) than it is to the nearest Walmart, located 126 miles away on the Florida mainland.
This isn't just a quirky trivia tidbit, but it genuinely shapes the character of Key West. The island sits at the very tip of the Florida Keys, connected to the mainland by the famous Overseas Highway, which stretches 113 miles across 42 bridges. That's a long way to go for groceries!
Key West's proximity to Cuba has influenced everything from its architecture and cuisine to its cultural vibe. You'll notice strong Cuban influences throughout the island, especially in the food scene.
Top Things to Do in Key West Cruise Port
Key West is rich in history, from presidential retreats to literary landmarks, and that's one of the things I love about calling to the Key West cruise port. Here are some of the best sites if you're into historic and cultural attractions:
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Walk the exterior and enjoy the grounds for free, or opt for the paid tour inside to learn about Truman's winter retreat. I found the entry price a bit steep, so I just walked around the property and popped in to the gift shop.
The guided tour takes about 45 minutes and provides fascinating insight into Truman's 11 visits to Key West, where he made important Cold War decisions. If you're short on time (or ball on a budget like me), the beautifully maintained grounds and historic architecture make for great photos without the admission fee.
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
A must-see for literature lovers (or cat lovers). The house is home to dozens of six-toed cats, many descended from Hemingway's original pet.
Plan for about an hour to tour the Spanish Colonial home where Hemingway wrote some of his most famous works, including For Whom the Bell Tolls. The lush gardens and pool are just as captivating as the house itself, and you'll likely spot several of the famous polydactyl cats lounging around the property.
Honestly, as a cat lover myself, and not much of a Hemingway fan, I went just for the cats and found that element alone worth the price of admission.
Southernmost Point
The famous red, black, and yellow buoy marking the southernmost point of the continental U.S. is one of Key West's most iconic photo ops.
Technically, the true southernmost point is on nearby private Ballast Key, but this buoy is the southernmost publicly accessible spot.
It's just 90 miles from Cuba, and on a clear day, you can feel the proximity to the Caribbean. The area gets crowded midday, so if you're aiming for that perfect shot without the crowds, try to visit early in your port day or later in the afternoon.
But here's my secret pro tip... even if you get there at peak times, instead of waiting, stand to the side of the buoy instead and snap a quick pic from that angle. You may not capture the writing on the buoy, but you'll save valuable port time and the annoyance of waiting in that stupid long line.
Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
Just steps from the Southernmost Point, this glass-enclosed habitat features hundreds of butterflies and exotic birds. It's a must-visit for families and nature lovers.
The climate-controlled conservatory offers a peaceful escape from the heat, and you can easily spend 30-45 minutes watching butterflies land on flowers (and maybe even on you!).
The flamingos and waterfall add to the tropical ambiance, making this a surprisingly serene experience in the middle of busy Key West. I stopped by here on my first visit to Key West, and found it worth the stop, especially since it's right around the corner from the famous Southernmost Point.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Filled with treasures and artifacts recovered from shipwrecks, this museum is perfect for history lovers and is budget-friendly. The highlight is the treasure from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha, which sank in 1622 and was discovered by Mel Fisher in 1985 after a 16-year search.
You can even hold a real gold bar (under supervision, of course!), and the collection of emeralds, silver coins, and jewelry is absolutely stunning for anyone fascinated by maritime history.
Key West Orchid Society
One of the rare free attractions in Key West, this orchid exhibit (generally open from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) showcases beautiful blooms, where visitors can vote for "Best of Show."
Located near Higgs Beach, this hidden gem is perfect if you're looking for a quick, budget-friendly stop that's off the typical tourist path. The small but impressive collection rotates regularly, and the peaceful setting provides a nice break from the busier attractions near the Key West cruise port.
Key West Aquarium
Located right near Mallory Square and extremely close to where cruise ships dock, the Key West Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in the United States and makes for a convenient, family-friendly stop. The interactive touch tanks are a huge hit with kids, allowing you to get hands-on with sea stars, conch, and horseshoe crabs.
The shark feeding demonstrations happen multiple times daily and are definitely worth catching if you time your visit right. You'll also find sea turtles, stingrays, jellyfish, and various tropical fish native to the Florida Keys. The aquarium is small and can be explored in about 45 minutes to an hour, making it perfect for cruise passengers on a tight schedule.
While it's not the largest or most modern aquarium you'll ever visit, its historic charm and prime location make it a solid choice, especially if you're traveling with children or want to learn more about the local marine ecosystem.
๐ Watch my Key West Cruise Port Videos on YouTube. ๐ฅ
Quirky & Offbeat Key West Attractions
Key West is known for its eccentric charm, and there are some fun and quirky things to check out if you're into that sort of thing. If you're looking for something different, try these unique stops:
Books & Books
This independent bookstore is owned by author Judy Blume. It's a cute stop not far from port and makes for a quick visit.
Although Judy sometimes pops in to work the register, she wasn't on duty during my most recent visit, sadly, and my "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret" loving heart was a little broken.
The shop is pretty small, but has a great selection of local interest books and beach reads, making it the perfect place to pick up something to enjoy on your sea days. It's air-conditioned, which is a bonus on hot Key West afternoons, and they often have signed copies of Judy's books available.
Robert the Doll
I love, love, love spooky things, so this next one is a real treat. Housed at the Fort East Martello Museum, this famously haunted doll, affectionately named "Robert the Doll," is one of Key West's strangest attractions.
The museum offers spooky night tours, but those are usually after typical cruise all-aboard times, so sadly, I've never been able to visit.
Legend has it that Robert was given to artist Robert Eugene Otto in 1906, and the doll is believed to cause misfortune to anyone who photographs him without permission. The museum itself is housed in a Civil War-era fort and includes Key West history exhibits alongside the creepy doll display.
It's about a 10-15 minute ride from the port, so factor in travel time if you're fortunate to call there during the museum's operating hours and want to visit.
Key West Cemetery
This historic cemetery features above-ground graves and quirky headstones, including one that reads, "I told you I was sick."
It's free and typically open from around 8:30 AM to 4 PM. The cemetery reflects Key West's unique character, with humorous epitaphs, elaborate mausoleums, and sections dedicated to everyone from Cuban exiles to Navy sailors.
You can explore on your own or join a guided tour to learn the fascinating (and sometimes scandalous) stories behind the graves. It's located near the center of the island, making it an easy stop if you're already exploring Old Town on foot.
Best Key Lime Pie in Key West Cruise Port
You simply cannot visit Key West without sampling its famous key lime pie. On my first visit, my bestie and I ran a self-guided "key lime pie tour," and taste-tested six top spots.
You can even grab Kermit's frozen chocolate-dipped pie on a stick right in the cruise terminal. For sit-down slices, try these:
Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe
Kermit's is probably the best-known key lime purveyor in Key West, and ended up being my top pick for a perfect tart-to-sweet balance. I like Kermit's, too, because their stores offer a wide variety of items beyond just pie, and they also provide free cookie samples.
This variety includes creative variations of key lime pie, like chocolate-dipped frozen pies, key lime cookies, and even key lime pie on a stick. There are two shops, conveniently located near the heart of Old Town, making it an easy stop during your explorations of the Key West cruise port.
๐ 200 Elizabeth St, Key West, FL 33040
Blue Heaven
Famous for mile-high meringue and roaming chickens, this is the Insta-famous spot. I found it to have a fun vibe, and I loved the live music, though the pie looks better than it tastes, in my opinion. I found it a bit overrated.
The restaurant itself is worth visiting for the atmosphere alone. It's housed in a historic building that was once a bordello, and Hemingway reportedly refereed boxing matches here. Be prepared for a wait during peak hours, as this is one of Key West's most popular spots for not just the sky high meringue pie, but also for breakfast.
๐ 729 Thomas St, Key West, FL 33040
Key West Key Lime Pie Co.
Of all the pies we taste-tested, the Key Lime Pie Company's slice was my second favorite overall.
They offer several variations, including chocolate key lime and swirl pies, and if you have extra time in port, you can even take a 2.5-hour pie-making class to learn their secrets. Located on Greene Street, it's right in the heart of the action near many other attractions near the Key West cruise port.
๐ 511 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040
Old Town Bakery
Old Town Bakery is a hidden gem with beautifully balanced pie plus great pastries.
This local favorite is less touristy than some of the other spots, like Kermit's, and offers a more authentic Key West experience, along with excellent baked goods beyond just pie.
It's perfect if you're looking for a quieter place to grab a sweet treat and maybe a coffee while taking a break from the crowds.
๐ 930 Eaton St, Key West, FL 33040
Cuban Coffee Queen
The local chain is known for strong Cuban coffee, but beyond java, it's also known as a spot for a solid key lime pie slice.
The benefit of getting your pie here is that it's the closest location to the Key West cruise port, making this your best bet if you're short on time or want to grab something quick near the beginning or end of your port day.
The Cuban coffee is also a must-try, and pairing it with a slice of key lime pie makes for a perfect Key West experience, and allows you to balance the sweetness of the pie with the strong Cuban coffee flavor.
๐ 284 Margaret St, Key West, FL 33040
Mattheessen's
Mattheeseen's doesn't serve the prettiest key lime pie slice, but it delivers on authenticity, with a homemade graham cracker crust. Plus, their slices are oversized, rich, and creamy.
Located right on Duval Street, this spot is perfect for combining dessert with some shopping and people-watching along Key West's main strip. The slices are generous, so come hungry or plan to share.
๐ 419 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Pro Tip: Oddly enough, one of the best key lime pie slices is rumored to be at Publix, of all places! Yes, a grocery store. It's about 2.5 miles from the port, though, so not practical on a short call.
Beaches Near Key West Cruise Port
Key West isn't my top pick for a beach-day port because the beaches here are small and there's so much else to do. Save the beach day for another Caribbean port instead.
Another reason I don't utilize Key West as a beach day is the fact that the nearby coral reef keeps the waters calm, which is great for families with younger kids, but limits natural sand deposition, so many beaches use imported sand. It has a very... manufactured feel.
Some travelers to the Key West cruise port opt for a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park for pristine beaches, but many calls to Key West are short, making visits here during a cruise difficult.
However, if you have the time, a private charter can be a great option for groups. If you still want sand and sun for a beach near the port, though, here are some options:
Simonton Beach
Simonton Beach is the closest sandy beach to the Key West cruise port, and it features calm, shallow water, but limited amenities.
This small, cozy beach is perfect if you only have a couple of hours and want to dip your toes in the water without venturing far from the ship.
The beach faces the harbor, so you'll have views of the cruise ships and sunset pier, which makes for unique photos. It's not the most scenic beach in Key West, but the convenience factor is unbeatable when you're short on time.
๐ Simonton St & Front St, Key West, FL 33040 (appx. 0.5 miles from the Key West cruise port)
Higgs Beach
Higgs Beach is a public beach with free entry and soft sand, featuring restrooms, playground, and nearby restaurants. It's also home to the aforementioned Orchid exhibit.
This is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Key West, with plenty of shade from palm trees and a nice stretch of sand for building sandcastles.
The playground makes it ideal for families with young kids. You'll find food vendors and restaurants within walking distance, plus the beach often hosts local events and has a nice pier for fishing or strolling.
๐ 1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040 (appx. 1.5 miles from the Key West cruise port)
Why Are There So Many Chickens in Key West?
One of the first things you'll notice when walking around Key West is the abundance of free-roaming roosters and chickens strutting down sidewalks, perching on fences, and occasionally blocking traffic. These colorful, confident birds are everywhere, and they're completely unfazed by tourists.
The story behind Key West's chicken population is actually pretty interesting. Chickens have been part of island life since the 1800s when Cuban immigrants brought them over. The population really exploded after cockfighting was banned in the 1970s, when owners released their birds rather than get rid of them, and the chickens have been multiplying ever since.
Today, the chickens are protected by local ordinance, meaning it's illegal to harm or capture them. The city even has a "chicken lady" who rescues and relocates problem birds. While some locals find them charming and others find them annoying (especially the roosters who crow at all hours), they've become an iconic symbol of Key West's quirky character.
๐ View the Key West Cruise Port Ship Schedule ๐ณ๏ธ
South Beach
South Beach is a small, scenic beach with shallow water right by the Southernmost Point, so this is a great spot to combine your photo op at the famous buoy with a quick beach break.
The water here is calm and crystal clear, making it perfect for a refreshing swim after exploring the hot streets of Old Town.
While there aren't many facilities here, the beach's proximity to the Southernmost Point and several restaurants on the southern end of Duval Street makes it convenient for a multi-stop itinerary.
๐ 1405 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040 (appx. 1.3 miles from the Key West cruise port)
Smathers Beach
Smathers Beach is the largest public beach near the Key West cruise port. It's built with imported sand and offers amenities such as restrooms, food trucks, and rentals.
If you want the most traditional beach experience in Key West, this is your best bet. The half-mile stretch of sand gives you plenty of room to spread out, and you can rent jet skis, paddleboards, beach chairs, and umbrellas right on-site.
Food trucks and vendors line the beach, so you won't have to venture far for refreshments. The water stays shallow for quite a distance, making it safe for kids and perfect for wading.
๐ 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040 (appx. 2.5 miles from the Key West cruise port)
Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
The Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in Key West, and for good reason... the water clarity is exceptional for snorkeling, with plenty of tropical fish visible right from shore.
There is a $2.50 per person entry fee (pedestrians/cyclists) or $6 per vehicle charge, which includes access to the historic fort and nature trails, but it's worth it.
The beach combines sandy areas with natural coral rock formations, and the tree-shaded picnic areas provide relief from the sun. Bring water shoes, though, if you plan to explore the rocky areas.
๐ 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040 (appx. 0.6 miles from the Key West cruise port)
Related: Shop my favorite cruise swimwear, clothes, and essentials
Nightlife at the Key West Cruise Port
Most cruise ships call at the Key West cruise port during daytime hours only, departing before sunset. However, some itineraries, particularly longer voyages or repositioning cruises, do offer overnight stays or evening port time. And if you're fortunate enough to experience the Key West cruise port after dark, you're in for a treat.
The nightly Mallory Square Sunset Celebration is a quintessential Key West experience, featuring street performers, musicians, and artists gathering to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
After dark, Duval Street comes alive with its legendary bar scene, including iconic spots like Sloppy Joe's (Hemingway's old haunt), the Green Parrot Bar (a local favorite since 1890), Captain Tony's Saloon, and Irish Kevin's. Live music spills out onto the streets, and the festive atmosphere makes for an unforgettable evening in this quirky island paradise.
Key West Cruise Port FAQs
Is the Key West cruise port walkable?
What is the best way to get around from the Key West cruise port?
Do I need to book a cruise line excursion if I'm visiting the Key West cruise port?
Where is the best key lime pie near the Key West cruise port?
Why are there so many chickens and roosters in Key West?
Video: A Cruiser's Guide to Key West
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