Key West has been one of the top tourist destinations for decades now, and it’s no wonder why! With its charming, pastel-colored homes, coral reefs, wonderful weather, pristine beaches, and general laid-back atmosphere it’s the perfect setting for a relaxing vacation.

This tiny island is super easy to navigate, and friendly locals make it a pleasant location to take a load off. Some of the most fun you can have here is jet skiing.

We’re here to bring you the top jet ski tours in Key West that are worth your time and money!

Best Jet Ski Tours in Key West

	Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider	Ultimate Jet Ski Tour of Key West	Key West's Morning Jet Ski Tour Special
Departure Point:	2801 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West	601 Front St, Key West	2801 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West
Departure Time:	Variety Available	Variety Available	9:30 am
Duration:	1.5 hours	1.5 hours	1.5 hours
Includes:	Jetski tour, 2 guides, free second rider, brand new jetskis, safety equipment	90-minute Jet Ski Tour, all necessary safety equipment	Use of jet ski, expert instruction, safety equipment
	Tour Information & Booking	Tour Information & Booking	Tour Information & Booking

Quick Answer: The 3 Best Rated Key West Jet Ski Tours For 2024

1. Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider
2. Ultimate Jet Ski Tour of Key West
3. Key West’s Morning Jet Ski Tour Special

Key West Jet Ski Tour Reviews

1. Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider

First up, we bring you the Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider. It’s a great experience for couples, friends, or family members who’d like to ride together. Not to mention, it’s a great deal if you’re on a budget!

If you’ve never gone jet skiing before or simply rather your partner drive, it’s also a nice choice. There are tons of different start times available, and as it lasts 1.5 hours it’s super easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules.

Once you meet up with your 2 guides, they’ll offer a safety briefing and instruction on how to drive the vehicles. They’ll keep an eye on you’re the entire time, making sure everyone stays safe.

One guide will lead, and the other will stay behind the group to allow for speedy riders to have a guide, and more casual ones to go at their own pace.

Needless to say, it’s perfect for riders of all experience levels! We found it was great for older children all the way to older adults! With the small group sizes and friendly crew, you can freely ask any questions you may have about jet skiing or the area itself.

Your guides will lead you through the Mangrove Islands, which are absolutely stunning. Take a stop at a local sandbar, where you’ll have a moment to rest and splash around in the crystal-clear waters. Make sure to get some photos as well of this magical place!

Keep in mind if you decide to valet park at Parrot Key instead of parking in the nearby Home Depot parking lot, you can even use their pool and restaurant after you’re done with your jet skiing!

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

2. Ultimate Jet Ski Tour of Key West

If you’re looking to learn about the history of Key West, while zooming around on a jet ski, then you’re in the right place. Whether you’re an absolute newbie or a seasoned veteran to the sport, we’re sure you’ll love this next tour.

The Ultimate Jet Ski Tour of Key West is another one that lasts 1.5 hours, operating at various times throughout the day to make sure you can fit it into your day.

On this adventure, you’ll be able to tour along the Atlantic Ocean and/or the Gulf of Mexico. It just depends on available time, your personal preferences, and the weather/sea conditions. However, you do have quite a bit of flexibility to customize the tour to your liking.

The guides are very patient and will gladly show you how to navigate properly as well as ensure you’re taking necessary safety precautions.

Key West shores are always picture-perfect, with lush mangroves and inlets. The Naval Air Station Key West is also a cool place to race by, with their one-of-a-kind training facility. Not to mention, it’s not uncommon to see dolphins, stingrays, manatees, and other sea animals!

As you drive around, your guide will tell you all about the history of the areas, along with any relevant information regarding the marine life, relevant buildings in the place you’re exploring, and more.

While all safety equipment is included, you’ll want to bring proper swimwear, sunscreen, and water shoes! We recommend making sure everything is comfortable beforehand, so you don’t end up with blisters or irritation.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

3. Key West’s Morning Jet Ski Tour Special

Perhaps you’re looking specifically for a tour that starts out in the morning. If so, give a good look at the Key West’s Morning Jet Ski Tour Special! Lasting 1.5 hours, this tour starts out at 9:30 am, which really is the best way to start out the day!

Did we mention that there’s no charge for the second rider? This makes this tour by far one of the most budget-friendly, so if you’re unsure if you’ll like jet skiing (we know you will) this is a fantastic option to choose.

If you like the idea of letting someone else drive while you are there for the ride, then we can’t recommend this tour enough.

What’s also great about this excursion is that you get to see a ton of different spots around Key West. This will surely give you ideas on where to check out once you’re back on land!

Once you arrive, your guides will give you a safety briefing, show you how to drive the jet skis, and provide you with any necessary safety equipment.

Once everyone is ready, you’ll follow your guide to the Southernmost Point, which is breathtakingly gorgeous. You’ll also get to see the impressive Naval Air Station and perhaps even some sea critters!

Next up is Smathers Beach, which is the biggest public beach in all of Key West with its white sand beaches and beautiful palm trees.

Pass by Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, which predates the Civil War, housing the biggest cache of Civil War armament in the US. We definitely recommend checking it out once you’re not on the water!

Circling the entire island, it’s a wonderful way to see a lot in a short period of time and get further acquainted with Key West.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience

Key West Travel Guide

Getting There

Air – Getting to Key West is really simple from just about anywhere within the United States. Most major airlines (national and foreign) serve Key West, such as American Airlines, Delta, Allegiant, United, JetBlue, and many others. If you prefer traveling without dealing with crazy packed commercial flights, you can opt for one of the many charters that serve Key West.

Alternatively, you can head to Miami International Airport, and just drive to Key West by taking LeJeune Road heading south to 836 West. Take the Florida Turnpike South toward Key West, then follow US 1 South until you get to Key West.

Train – The Amtrak can take you as far south as Fort Lauderdale from just about any major city in the country (but make sure to revise). Once you get to Ft. Lauderdale, you can hop on a transfer to the Keys Shuttle.

Shuttle – There are many shuttle services with daily stops from the mainland and the Keys. The Keys Shuttle is the best-rated, thanks to their door-to-door services to and from both Miami and Ft. Lauderdale airports. Their staff is incredibly helpful, and if you have a large group they can really make things a lot more convenient.

The Florida Keys Express Shuttle can also get you to/from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International and MIA airports. Select either a Mercedes Benz van or SUV limo, and you’re riding in style! It’ll be more expensive, but if you want to relax in a more opulent mode of transport, you have it.

Water – As you probably already figured, accessing Key West by water is quite common. The Key West Express features high-speed ferries operating from Ft. Myers Beach and Marco Island. The ferries pull into the Key West Bight Ferry Terminal placed in the middle of the Historic Seaport Terminal which is easy to access from just about any point of the island.

Getting Around

Getting around Key West is incredibly simple, thanks to the island’s compact size. Driving is easy and isn’t much different from mainland US. Don’t feel like you need to drive here though, as there are tons of options that are more affordable and just as easy.

Walking – As Key West is pretty flat, you don’t have to worry about ascending hills nor about “sketchy” parts of town. On the contrary, the communities here are very well-kept, with charming homes and nice gardens. If you really want to get to know the island, it’s arguably the best way to do so. With the climate being one of the best in the US, rainfall or cold weather isn’t usually a big threat.

Taxis – Taxis serve the entire island, and are best to hire by calling ahead rather than hailing from the street. However, if you’re at the airport, you’ll see a line of taxis waiting for arrivals for tourists trying to get to their hotels or other accommodations.

Ride Sharing – There are now Uber and LYFT operating on the island, which tends to be more convenient for many non-locals who are already familiar to the apps. Not to mention, it gives some people an increased sense of security knowing that there is a paper trail of where they’ve gone and who’s driving them.

Cycling – Aside from walking, biking is another excellent way to get to know the city. It’s a nice way to get in a bit of exercise, and you can rent one for just 50 bucks a week! There are rental places aplenty, and if they don’t already tell you, it’s a good idea to ask about local rules.

Mopeds – Mopeds are also common among locals, however, they can be quite dangerous. There’s no helmet law in Florida, and they can get up to some pretty high speeds. Not to mention, you need to watch out for motor vehicles, other mopeds, and more. Not only that, but you have to follow the laws of the road, too.

Local Transportation – You have buses and trolleys all over the place in Key West, and both have day passes available. You can check out schedules online, and if you’re on a budget, they’re both highly-recommended options.

Where to Stay

Key West seems to have a perfect balance of modern and historic. Old Town is where most people will hang out, particularly if it’s your first time on the island. In a way, it’s like hopping back in time, with beautiful architecture and historic sites (including the seaport) to explore. With clean, large streets, it’s perfect for strolling around with the entire family.  However, you can also opt for a more luxurious experience in downtown or Casa Marina resort.

Duval Street is ultra-popular, with its colorful vibes, endless restaurants, shops, bars, and so on. It’s located in the center of Old Town, but you can easily walk to downtown from here, too. Are you really into sea sports and seafood? Then give The Historic Seaport a go. Not to mention, it’s a beautiful place!

Truman Annex is named such due to the fact that former president, Harry Truman, had a residence here. The house includes a gift shop for history aficionados. If you head towards the Historic Seaport, you’ll also see the original Pan Am airlines headquarters, which is now the First Flight Island Restaurant and Brewery, an aquarium, the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, and much more. If you’re into nightlife and bars, then you have to check out Downtown/Duval Street. This is where you’ll find all the fun: all types of cocktails, parties of all kinds, and so much more.

Restaurants and Eating Out

If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in the right place. Even if you aren’t, there really is something for everyone here.

Glazed Donuts – Glazed Donuts is the perfect breakfast for first-thing in the morning before a tour, or if you have a packed schedule and don’t have time for a sit-down breakfast.Grab a freshly-brewed café accompanied with their famous key lime pie doughnut finished off with torched meringue or other delicacies.

Blue Heaven – Hanging out on the corner of Petronia and Thomas street, you’ll find Blue Heaven. It’s not just a place for some delicious Caribbean/American fusion dishes, but will supply you with live music, ping pong, and a laidback vibe with friendly locals. Don’t forget to try their legendary “Mile-High” Key Lime Pie! If anything, at least go for the pie!

A&B Lobster House – If you’re on the hunt for a more upscale place to take a date, you’ll love this restaurant that’s managed to perfect their vibe since 1947. With a beautiful wraparound balcony and extensive marina views, it sets the tone for a relaxing night full of great conversation and food. Just a few notable items from the menu include: Caribbean lobster thermidor, strip steak au poivre, and an impressive classic cocktail selection and wine menu.

Smoked BBQ – We all love the calm vibes of Key West, and you have it concentrated in a large supply at Smoked BBQ. Sure, it has some lovely marine views, but has a more “fisherman” kind of scene that people from all ages and backgrounds seem to love. Pulled pork sandwiches with a sweet BBQ sauce are the crowd favorite, though it also has some delicious seafood options like fish and chips.

Café Marquesa – This gorgeous restaurant is located inside the Marquesa Hotel, which is sophisticated with a hometown twist. Fresh Key West seafood is in large supply, and everything is cooked to perfection. Their desserts are housemade, and have a kind of Southern feel which is consistent with the friendly service.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Key West has some booming nightlife, and you’re about to experience it! If you thought the daytime was fun, you’ll really enjoy when the sun sets.

Duval Crawl – You haven’t lived if you haven’t gone bar hopping on Duval Street. Lined with all kinds of bars and nightclubs, you can see why it’s one of the top spots in Key West. Sloppy Joe’s is a top pick among locals and tourists, while Upper Duval is a bit more “upscale” with an array of romantic wine bars, craft cocktail hangouts, and more refined options. There’s always something along the spectrum of sophisticated and unruly entertainment.

Key West Theater – If you aren’t in the mood to down some cocktails or beers, head out for an evening at the Key West Theater. Placed in the center of Old Town, it hosts top-notch comedians, musicians, and bands. It also features community theater productions, exclusive film screenings, and more.

Hauntings Ghost Tour – Did you know that Key West is supposed to be one of the most haunted places in the US? If you didn’t, you sure will after participating in this ghost tour! It’ll cover the Hemingway House, lighthouse, as well as their local resident: the “Typhoid Mary” ghost. The Ghosts & Gravestones tour is another fascinating ghost tour if that’s your cup of tea. This tour takes place on a trolley with a narrated tour of the island’s old wooden home history, a Civil War fort and barracks, the haunted East Martello Tower, and much more.

Galleon Tiki Bar – Key West is simply too beautiful to not enjoy all its waterfront options! This tiki bar is located at the Galleon Resort and Marina, though you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy it. Locals head here often to watch the sunset, accompanied by one of their many delicious happy hour drinks and dishes!

Weather

As we mentioned briefly, you don’t typically have to worry too much about weather conditions in Key West, unless perfectly warm, sunny days aren’t your thing. Yep, even in the winter you won’t find it drop below 65 degrees. August is the hottest, and even then it doesn’t usually get over 90 degrees so it’s not blisteringly scorching.

Attractions

As you’re probably already sick of hearing, the place to be is Duval Street. No matter when you’re out and about, you’ll always find something fun and interesting in this area. Extending from Mallory Square to the Southernmost Point marker, it sports beautiful homes, pretty gift shops, mouth-watering restaurants, lively bars, clubs, and much more.

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum was inhabited by the legendary writer from 1931 until 1940, more or less. Featuring a lush tropical garden, saltwater pool, and beautifully timeless furniture, it is apparently the place in which he created various infamous novels.

If you’re the kind of person who loves exploring Mother Nature and all she has to offer, you have to give the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory a visit. As home to over 50 species of butterflies and over 20 species of exotic birds, it’s perfect for visitors of all ages. If you have kids along, it’s one of the top sights we recommend taking them to.

Mallory Square is one of the most popular places in the city, with live musical performers, street performers, art, vendors, delicious street food, and more. It’s hard to miss! Not to mention, if you can swing it, watching the sunsets here is highly recommended.

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum houses an array of rich artifacts, along with historical accounts that are sure to give you a different perspective on the area. One of which, is the Henrietta Marie, which was a slave ship that also transported tons of historic artifacts. The Spanish Santa Margarita is another, which dates back all the way to the 17^th century.

The Martello Towers were constructed back in the mid-1800’s, and were made to protect Fort Zachary Taylor. Though it was never fully finished, it is made of impressive, 8-foot-thick granite walls! Take a casual stroll through the grounds, which are romantic and serene.

Tips

While Key West has some fantastic weather the vast majority of the time, hurricane season that run from June 1^st to November 30^th. However, from August to October, you’re likely to see the strongest storms. While they’re not typically the dangerous sort, it can still dampen your plans as a lot of Key West activities take place outdoors.

If you’re planning on driving, know that finding parking near Duval Street can be really difficult at times. You’re better off hailing a rideshare or taxi in these times, especially if you’re going out a night on the weekends. It’s not a bad idea to ask your hotel if they have a shuttle that can take you to/from the area. If you’re close enough, renting a bike or walking over there is a great option as well.

Driving to Key West is a wonderful experience in itself, as you get to drive over the Overseas Highway. It’s exhilarating, yet somehow it’ll completely clear your mind of any stress or worry – perfect for preparing you for a great time on the Island.

Key West is home to the only living barrier reef in the entire continental United States. Located about 6-7 miles offshore, snorkeling the Key West Reef can’t be missed while on the island.