Key West, where turquoise waters meet lively streets, is a slice of paradise in the southernmost city of the continental U.S. A vibrant mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all over the world, offering something special for everyone. Whether you're stopping by on a cruise or enjoying a longer stay, one thing is clear getting around this charming island efficiently can elevate your entire experience.
While many visitors prefer walking or exploring via the famous Conch Train, I discovered another game-changer for sightseeing in Key West—renting a golf cart! Buckle up (yes, some golf carts have seat belts!) as I take you through my firsthand experience of cruising through Key West with the convenience, ease, and fun of a golf cart rental. Golf carts are not limited to a golf course here in Key West!
Why Transportation Matters in Key West
Key West may be quaint, but its charms are spread out, and exploring on foot can be slow, especially under the Florida sun. Other than walking, popular transportation options include bicycles, mopeds, scooter rental, or the iconic Conch Train tours. (Many people enjoy riding bikes in Key West, although I prefer golf carts, Key West bike rentals are common on the island.) However, if you're looking for a more convenient and flexible way to experience Key West attractions, golf cart rentals are the way to go. Beyond being practical, they add an extra layer of fun and adventure to your visit! There are many rental companies offering the area’s newest golf carts.
Pro Tip: A golf cart allows you to enjoy your Key West itinerary at your own pace while skipping the schedule restrictions of guided tours.
My Golf Cart Rental Experience
After arriving in Key West from a cruise ship, I was eager to hit the ground running—or rather, cruising. The process of renting a golf cart could not have been easier! There are many rental companies in Key West
Smooth Booking Process
My rental experience started shortly after disembarking from the ship and making a leisurely walk along the pier. Near the end of the pier, I spotted a convenient golf cart rental stand. I was directed to pick up my cart just three blocks east, and voila! It was as simple as showing my reservation paid by credit card, having a valid driver’s license, going over a quick orientation, and hopping into my new (temporary) ride. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely seemed excited to help me make the most of my Key West adventure.
The golf cart itself was in fantastic condition—clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything I needed for a day of exploration. It even had a small area for stowing shopping bags, which, trust me, became very useful by the end of the day.
Once I got used to driving it, it was fine. The steering wheel was rough, not like a car on the highway. It makes you forget how we are used to using vehicles with power steering fluid. The open air flowing in the cart while riding was wonderful, as the day was hot, as I was in Key West in the middle of summer.
Booking Before the trip
The following third-party companies like Viator or GetYourGuide are a great tool for booking these golf carts and other tours. This is the best way to get a great rate instead of booking at the end of the pier when stepping off a cruise ship. You can look up the rental company online and book directly also.
If booking early which is the best option is $120 for 3-hour rental or $150 for a 5-hour rental with the Viator link. You get a mobile ticket which you show to pick up your golf cart. You can also rent for 8 hours, or if in Key West for a week's vacation you can rent by the day or the whole week.
There are many companies, some with electric cars, gas powered golf carts that are small or large. Some have different rules when it comes to renting to someone young. In fact, one will only rent a golf cart to those that are 22 years of age or older. Some require children to be placed in child seats that are not supplied by the golf cart company, if the child is young. My best advice is to look into the rules before buying to make sure it is exactly what you need. There is also companies that do Scoot Coupe Rentals, which are similar to a golf cart, but look like a car.
Exploring Key West by Golf Cart
Once I hit the road, Island Style, I quickly realized how much freedom a golf cart allowed. It opened the door to exploring Key West’s hidden gems without the stress of traditional transportation. You didn't have to really watch the speed limit, as with traffic in the city and limitations on how fast the golf cart can go, you shouldn't get a ticket for speeding in the city.
This rental is not a tour where you have a tour guide driving the car, you can go where you want when you want because you control the golf cart. Visit Smathers Beach before lunch, then drive to a place for lunch with a good key lime pie. Then make the most of the gold cart by exploring more of the city. Even other off the beaten path places nearby can be visited, like Stock Island.
Key West Attractions Made Easy
Thanks to my golf cart, I was able to visit some of Key West's most famous landmarks with ease. Here’s a list of my must-visit stops: It’s the best way to see the city.
Southernmost Point Buoy – A quick photo op at this iconic spot made it even easier with a golf cart since I could quickly park and hop out. There will be a line for the photo op, so you will have to park along a side street and walk over. New Key West visitors always stop by this spot for a picture. On my trip since we have seen it before, I just snapped the picture from golf cart, and we kept on driving.
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum – I parked nearby and wandered through the former residence of the legendary writer (and his six-toed cats!). If visiting, be prepared for a long wait. The line usually goes to the end of the sidewalk. You will have to park a golf cart on a side street nearby as there is not enough street parking nearby usually. I took a quick glance but did not buy a ticket to enter.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park – No parking headaches here! Golf carts are welcome, making it easy to enjoy the stunning beach and scenic park. Pay just a few bucks, and you will find a parking spot. Wonderful beach area in one of the parking areas and then the fort in another parking area. Ft Zachery Taylor is a real neat.
Truman Annex – A charming, quieter area filled with history and beautiful architecture. The Navy has buildings here along with the Harry Turman vacation house. Its neat to see
End of Route 1 Sign – The perfect spot for a quick selfie at the end of the famous U.S. Route 1!
Shopping on Duval Street – By parking on nearby side streets everyone can shop and explore. See historic sites like buildings and churches on Duval street too. I was able to drop off my travel companions in the loading zone to shop to their hearts' content while I explored further on the golf cart.
Marilyn Monroe Statue – Another iconic stop made all the more fun with my little cruiser.
Having a golf cart made it simple to find parking or work around busy spots, even along bustling Duval Street. Just keep in mind that you can’t park in unloading zones on the main streets. Side street parking is usually available but can sometimes be limited, so plan accordingly.
The Golf Cart Advantage
One of my favorite discoveries was how golf carts are welcomed in most parks and state areas in Key West—something not every type of vehicle can claim. It made the day feel seamless and gave me time to enjoy the experience rather than worry about logistics.
Golf Cart vs. Traditional Transportation
You might be wondering, "How does a golf cart stack up against other transportation options?" Well, here’s a quick breakdown:
Flexibility: Unlike a guided tour, a golf cart lets you control your own itinerary. Stop where you want, for as long as you want! Just be mindful of the rental time frame.
Parking: While parking can be tricky for cars, golf carts fit snugly into smaller spaces especially on narrow streets. They are welcomed at many attractions or side streets nearby. Be sure to use the Parking brake if your golf cart has them.
Cost: Expect golf cart rentals to be less expensive than renting a car, and significantly more worth it than rideshare services when hopping between attractions all day.
Fun Factor: There's something undeniably charming about cruising around Key West's colorful streets in open-air vehicles —it’s an adventure in itself!
Perfect for handicapped: Since it is so close to the end of the pier, people with knee issues can wait there for free delivery or someone in the group can walk the 3 blocks to pick it up, and drive back by and pick you up. Pre book if you need it delivered to the pier area, do not wait till the day you get off the cruise ship for this. This can only happen for valid requests like being disabled or handicapped. Fold up wheelchairs can be stored in the back seat of the golf cart.
Seat Belts: Safety Belts are required to be used if they are in the golf carts. Some golf carts don't have them, which is fine. But be sure to use just like they would if you are driving a car. Just like Florida Law for cars.
Availability: There are 4 person and up to 8 person golf cart rentals in Key West. The new golf carts tend to be the larger ones that hold up to 8 people. Two-seater golf cart, or 6-person ez-go golf carts, all are available in Key West. Prices do change due to how many people it holds.
Tips for a Smooth Golf Cart Experience
Here are a few tips to ensure your ride goes without a hitch:
Arrive Early if you’re traveling from a cruise ship. The earlier you disembark, the easier it will be to pick up a cart. However, keep in mind that many shops along Duval Street don’t open until at least 10 AM.
Plan Your Parking wisely. Stick to designated spots and avoid busy areas during peak hours.
Follow Safety Guidelines and local traffic rules, such as wearing seat belts and respecting no-parking zones. Don’t forget to drive cautiously—it’s a golf cart, not a sports car! Police will be watching if you park in a loading zone!! (Yes, they caught me once and honked their horn for me to move. lol)
Charge Smart (for electric carts). If the rental staff provides info on charging stations or battery life, make a note. Some are gas golf carts but most are battery operated and the battery will last all day long.
Map Out Key Stops in advance to make the most of your time. Knowing key attractions and where you can park beforehand is a game-changer. The streets of Key west are easy to navigate but can be busy when cruise ships are in port or in peak season. Golf Cart rental company will give you a map with purchase.
Pro Tip: Key Lime Pie on a stick is amazing. Pay a visit to Kermit's Key Lime Pie.
Golf Cart Rental in Key West, why should you?
Reflecting on my day of adventure, I can confidently say that Key West golf cart rentals was one of the best decisions I made during my visit to Key West while on shore from a Celebrity Cruise. Key West vacation takers could also enjoy a day or week full of golf cart rentals. It transformed how I experienced the island, letting me see more attractions, move at my own pace, and enjoy the quirks and beauty of Key West with no stress. For visitors, whether you’re on vacation or stopping by on a cruise, a golf cart rental is an absolute must.
Are you planning your Key West trip? Add a golf cart rental to your itinerary and prepare for a fun, breezy adventure. Trust me, you won’t regret it—so go ahead and book now!
Would you like to read more about Key West? Click here for my blog about sunset cruises of Key West.
This blog contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I might receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Comments