Headed to the Keys for Spring Break
 

Never been to the Keys and am curious so I am trying to book a flight from San Francisco to The Keys where do I fly into, Miami, The keys Airport any suggestions help.

Thanks

Nadia

It's a pretty long drive from Miami to the Keys. If you are simply going to Key West then fly into there. Much easier!

Its a long drive that at times becomes tedious, however, its a great way to see the keys. If you are in no hurry and would want to stop along the way, for example at Key Largo, then its worth it. If you want to get to the Keys in a timely fashion fly into the keys. From Miami airport its about 3.5 hours. If you do fly into Miami, take 836 West to the Turnpike Extension which will take you down to Florida City/Homestead where it meets Route 1. Do not take 836 East to 95 South turning into Route 1. Once 95 dead ends into Route its nothing but a very long succession of traffic lights and heavy traffic and nothing to look at except strip center malls.

Keep in mind it is way more expensive to fly into Key West and there are luggage weight restrictions.

I like the drive. It is scenic and several great stopping points.

1) It is not expensive to fly into Key West, at least on 3M. Fares are usually $150-200 round trip,

2) The flight is just as scenic as driving -- much better because you have an aerial view and can take as many pictures as you please.

3) You can easily connect with codesharing between 3M/UA in FLL (their hometown city and headquarters) and AA/MQ in MIA.

-LPDAL

3M is Silver (if anyone was wondering ) They fly Saab 340B's.

Thanks everyone

It's easiest to fly into EYW (Key West Airport) but the drive from MIA or FLL can be nice. You can also get to EYW via RSW (Fort Meyers), MCO (Orlando), TPA, CLT or ATL.

Depending on how long you are going you might be able to find reasonable fare and car rentals that include a 1 way drive.

I was there a few years ago for a wedding and a bunch of us stayed at the Orchid Key Inn. It's an interior island "boutique" hotel with good rooms, a pool and bar. Easy to get to the crazier parts of the island but also quieter when you want relaxation time.

Silver only flies via FLL, TPAMC, and MCO.
During March, I could only find $256 as the cheapest, using weekend flights. Adding that to an existing fare into FLL (MCO, TPA to Key West seems to be a long way in a small prop plane) might make it quite a bit more than renting a car.
Time may be more important than $$ of course, and yes quite a scenic flight. Harder to stop for a scenic drink though. :p