A Cruiser’s Guide to Key West: What to Do Near the Port + Easy Golf Cart & Scooter Rentals
Welcome to paradise! If your cruise itinerary includes a stop at the Key West Cruise Port, you’re in for a day of quirky charm, rich history, delicious Cuban food, and sun-soaked exploration. Whether you’re docking at Mallory Square, Pier B, or the Outer Mole, everything you need is within reach – especially when you rent a golf cart or scooter to cruise the island like a local.
Cruise Port Basics: Know Before You Go
Key West has three cruise piers:
- Pier B (right next to Mallory Square)
- Mallory Square
- Outer Mole (requires a free shuttle to town)
All three drop you near the heart of Old Town Key West, just steps from famous Duval Street, the Historic Seaport, and dozens of top attractions. From the port, it’s easy to:
- Walk to Ernest Hemingway’s House or the Southernmost Point
- Explore local shops and galleries
- Sample iconic key lime pie at Kermit’s or Blue Heaven
- Visit quirky stops like Books & Books or the Key West Cemetery
Get Around Like a Local: Golf Cart & Scooter Rentals
While Key West is walkable, it can get hot – and fast. Renting a golf cart or scooter gives you the freedom to explore the island without sweating through your shorts.
Golf Cart Rentals
- Street-legal and available near the cruise port
- Great for groups and families (4- and 6-seat options)
- Park easily near Duval, Simonton Beach, or Fort Zachary Taylor
- Perfect for visiting spots like Smathers Beach or the Key West Butterfly Conservatory
Scooter Rentals
- Fun, fast, and ideal for solo travelers or couples
- Avoid parking hassles
- Zip over to local beaches, food trucks, and photo ops in minutes
The pickup location is within walking distance of Mallory Square and Pier B, and we offer free pickup for those staying on Key West. Located at 150 Simonton Street, 8am to 6pm only
Quick Itinerary for Cruise Passengers
Here’s a sample day with plenty of time to get back onboard:
- 9:30 AM – Disembark, grab a Cuban Coffee Queen latte
- 10:00 AM – Pick up your golf cart or scooter rental
- 10:30 AM – Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Beach or take the scenic route along South Roosevelt Blvd
- 12:30 PM – Lunch at Blue Heaven or El Siboney
- 1:30 PM – Snap pics at the Southernmost Point + visit the Butterfly Conservatory
- 2:30 PM – Return your ride and grab frozen key lime pie on a stick
- 3:00 PM – Stroll through Mallory Square or enjoy street performers before boarding
See our Guide to Must-See Stops on a Self-Guided Golf Cart Tour of Key West.
Beaches & Views Near Port
If you’re craving sand and sea:
- Simonton Beach – Closest walkable beach to the cruise port
- Fort Zachary Taylor – Clear water, coral rock shoreline, ideal for snorkeling
- Higgs or Smathers Beach – Best reached via scooter or cart
Pro tip: Key West beaches are smaller due to the offshore reef – but the calm, crystal-clear water is perfect for floating, snorkeling, and relaxing
Final Tips for Cruise Visitors
- Book rentals early during high season (December–April, holidays, and Fantasy Fest)
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and comfy sandals
- Be back at the port at least 1 hour before departure
- Save the beach day for another island – Key West is best explored by street!
Ready to roll? A golf cart or scooter rental is the perfect way to unlock everything Key West has to offer in just one unforgettable day.
See our Golf Cart Rentals and Scooter Rentals
Golf Cart Rentals
A fun way to cruise around Key West and see the sights
Scooter Rentals
Enjoy the freedom of cruising Key West in Style
Electric Cart Rentals
A fleet of eco-friendly electric cars to cruise Key West
FAQ: Key West Cruise Ship Guide
Where is the Key West cruise port located?
There are three cruise docks in Key West: Mallory Square, Pier B, and Outer Mole (Navy Mole). Mallory and Pier B are right in the heart of Old Town. Ships docking at Outer Mole offer a free shuttle to Mallory Square.
Can I walk to attractions from the cruise port?
Yes—if you’re docked at Pier B or Mallory, Duval Street, the Historic Seaport, and major attractions like Hemingway House, Butterfly Conservatory, and Southernmost Point are all walkable. If you’re at Outer Mole, you’ll need to take the shuttle into town.
Is it easy to rent a golf cart or scooter near the cruise port?
Very! The pickup location is within a 2–5 minute walk of the port at 150 Simonton Street, 8am to 6pm only.
Do I need a driver’s license to rent a scooter or golf cart in Key West?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required for all rentals. You must be 18+ for scooters, and most golf cart rental companies require 21+ with a credit card.
Can I drive golf carts and scooters anywhere in Key West?
Golf carts are street-legal on all roads with speed limits under 35 mph. Scooters can go anywhere full-size vehicles can. Both must obey local traffic laws and paid parking rules apply.
How long should I rent a cart or scooter for if I’m only in port for the day?
Most cruise visitors rent for 4 to 6 hours, which gives you time to explore beaches, Old Town, photo stops, and grab lunch comfortably.
Which beach is closest to the cruise port?
Simonton Beach is the closest (0.5 miles), followed by Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, which is a 15–20 minute walk or a quick golf cart ride.
Is Key West safe to explore on my own?
Yes! Key West is a very safe and welcoming destination. Solo travelers and small groups can easily explore the island on foot or with a rental.
Do I need a reservation for a golf cart or scooter rental in Key West?
While walk-up rentals are sometimes available, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation in advance – especially if you’re arriving by cruise ship. Inventory can sell out quickly during high season, weekends, and port days, and we offer online booking with guaranteed availability.
