Without Losing Your Mind

Parking on the small island of Key West can be a bit of an adventure. With winding city streets, prime locations packed with tourists, and parking violations lurking around every corner, finding a spot that doesn’t break the bank or your spirit can feel like a treasure hunt. Don’t worry—I’ve been there, and I’m here to help you crack the code of Key West parking.

By the end of this guide, you’ll learn the best spots to park, sneaky ways to score free spots, how to avoid getting your car towed, and why ditching your car entirely might be the smartest move. Let’s break it down so you can focus on enjoying breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and sipping on mojitos instead of stressing about parking fees.

Rule #1 of Parking in Key West: If You Don’t Need the Car, Don’t Bring It

Yes, you heard that right. Key West is easily walkable, bikeable, and scooter-friendly. There’s also the Duval Loop Bus, which is completely free and runs through all the city hotspots, including Duval Street, Key West Historic Seaport, and Mallory Square.

If you’re flying in or arriving via the ferry terminal, consider renting a bike, scooter, or golf cart once you arrive. Companies like Eaton Bikes or local electric car rentals will help you zoom around the island while avoiding parking chaos.

But if you’re driving into town or renting a car for your trip (hey, we’ve all been there), here’s what you need to know.

Prime Parking Options Around Key West

1. Metered Street Parking

For those staying in the Old Town District, be prepared to pay a premium for street parking near Duval Street. Metered parking here costs $4–$6 per hour, depending on the season, and runs 24 hours a day. Some spots may have a time limit, like a 10-hour maximum, so check the time limits listed on signs. Don’t forget your mobile app or credit card for pay stations—bye-bye, loose change!

• Hot Tip: Download the official Key West Parking App for reminders when your meter is about to expire. Trust me, you don’t want an additional late charge or worse…a tow.

2. Free Residential Parking Spots

If you’re hunting for free parking spaces, venture into the residential parking areas a few blocks away from popular spots like Mallory Square or Caroline Street Lot. Keep in mind:

• Look Closely for “Residential Parking Only” signs. These are for locals with permits, and parking there without one means certain doom (or at least a hefty fine).
• If you’re visiting during peak tourist season, free spots disappear faster than sandwiches at a picnic. Plan to arrive early for a better chance.

3. Parking Lots and Garages

If searching for free spots feels like too much work, opt for the safety of parking lots or garages. Here’s a quick breakdown of popular options:

• Old Town Parking Garage (Corner of Grinnell and Caroline)
• • Rates: $6/hour, $48/day maximum
  • Perks: Open 24 hours, with reasonable height restrictions for passenger vehicles
  • Downside: Only 300 spaces; fills up quickly.
• Key West Bight Parking Lot
• • Rates: $5/hour, $40/day maximum
  • Note: 10-day max parking.
• Mallory Square Parking Lot (Wall Street)
• • Rates: $6/hour, $48/day maximum
  • Downside: No overnight parking allowed.
• Conch Republic Parking Lot (Greene Street Lot by the Conch Republic Restaurant)
• • Rates: $5/hour, 10-hour max parking.
• Truman Waterfront Parking Lot
• • Rates: $4/hour, with walking access to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and the Truman Waterfront Park Playground.

Pro Tip: If you’re parking overnight, check out the Old Town Parking Garage or Key West Bight Parking Lot to avoid waking up to a ticket.

4. Hotel or BnB Parking

Not all accommodations offer parking onsite (or for free), so double-check when booking your stay. Some places provide drop-off zones or limited spots, while others have arrangements with nearby parking lots. If you’re unsure, give them a call!

How to Avoid Parking Violations (and Towing Nightmares)

It’s not if you’ll get a parking ticket in Key West… it’s when. Here are some tips to dodge those dreaded orange envelopes:

1. Double-Check Signage: Look both ways (and up!) before parking. Missing a “Resident Permit Only” sign is the easiest way to get hit with fines or towing.
2. Extend Your Time via Parking Apps or Pay Stations. Always err on the side of adding 30 extra minutes if you’re unsure.
3. Respect the Residential Permits (Really): Locals can report violators, and they will. Leave those spaces for the people who live there year-round, please!
4. Forget the Oversized Vehicle: RVs, trailers, and giant trucks aren’t welcome in most parking areas, especially garages with height restrictions like the Old Town Garage.
5. Avoid Parking Overnight Without Permission: Lots like Mallory Square Parking Lot strictly prohibit overnight parking. Don’t test it.
6. Keep Your Ticket Stub or payment receipt handy if using an attended lot or garage.

Ditch the Car and Explore on Two Wheels

One of the great ways to experience Key West is on a bike or scooter. Many streets have safe bike lanes, and you’ll be able to visit spots like Fort Taylor, South Street, and the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy with ease.

Prices for bike rentals start at around $15/day and go up depending on what you’re renting. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about parking costs or permits!

Looking for something even cooler? Electric golf carts are also a popular option. They’re not compact enough to fit into most scooter parking but many fit smaller garage spaces, Just be aware of the parking regs/rules if you need to park your golf cart.

Final Parking Tips for Key West Visitors

Before I go, here’s a quick recap:

1. If you don’t need the car, leave it behind! Taxi services, the Duval Loop Bus, or renting a bike are better-than-car options.
2. Familiarize yourself with parking meter regulations or book a secure garage spot in advance.
3. Arrive early during peak season to snag the best spaces (or prepare to pay).
4. Respect the locals and their residential permits.

Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or an extended stay, smart parking choices will save you time, money, and sanity. And hey, if all else fails, channel your inner Conch and grab a lobster roll and coffee while you wait for a spot!

See you on the streets of paradise