Ft. Myers to Key West drive - stopping overnight enroute?
 

Any ideas on where to spend a night somewhere between Ft. Myers and Key West? We’re flying into Ft. Myers on a Wednesday (in March), arriving around noon, and were planning to drive directly to Key West. But since learning that it will be more than a five hour drive I was thinking it might be better to take our time and stop somewhere overnight on the way instead of driving straight through. Plus that way maybe we could just stay somewhere cheap for a night instead of spending $200 for a room in Key West. I take it there’s a lot of nothing for a big part of that drive, so I’m guessing it won't make sense to stop until maybe Miami or Key Largo. Is that correct? Any recommendations for decent (but inexpensive) hotels that wouldn’t take us too far off course? I’m thinking of using Priceline for that night, but if I do that in Miami I have no idea what zone to bid.

I don't know if you are aware of the fact that there is a daily ferry between Key West and Ft. Myers. It takes about 3.5 hours.

As for the hotel room, you could easily priceline a hotel in key west.

Once you get near the Keys the room rates go up due to spring break... the drive from Ft. Myers across the state is practically a straight shot across alligator alley... the only reasonable stop at a cheap rate might be around Homestead where there are some motels along the highway...theres not much there to do unless you are willing to pay more and stay in Miami... The next day will be the bulk of your drive... about 4 hours down the keys... my recommendation.... plan on driving the full distance with a dinner stop in South Beach...or... dinner in Islamorada followed by a late check-in in KW.... I've made this drive a dozen times and it is not that difficult...

There is a Hampton Inn very near the entrance to the Keys. From there it should only take about 3 hours to get to Key West without any stops.

Thanks everyone – this is very helpful. I do know about the ferry and I thought it would be perfect for us, but based on what I’ve read here about its lack of reliability, probability of seasickness, and high price, I don’t think I want to do it. Plus I'm kind of looking forward to the drive since I've never been through the Everglades or the Keys. I am considering Priceline in Key West, but I keep hearing that a B&B is the way to go. Plus if I go for 3-star in Key West I could get the Doubletree which I keep hearing is in a really inconvenient location. Is that true?

The Hampton Inn sounds good and about halfway, but maybe I’ll take your advice Gary and drive straight through. Especially if I decide to go with Priceline and get a cheaper hotel in KW.

Just take your time and drive to Key West. As gary said, the bulk of the drive is through the keys and staying in the keys will not save you much money.

You'll be glad you did.

You might also try a B&B called the Chelsea House... I have stayed there twice and found it to be a bit cheaper than some others for a good location in Old Town with good facilities...Be warned that there is a Nude Sundeck but it is away from the main pool area...

Is there a reason why you're flying into Ft.Myers when your final destination is Key West?

<b>www.flycapeair.com</b> has about 5 flights a day between the 2 cities. If you need to get back to Ft.Myers to catch your return flight then maybe this would be something to consider, at least one-way.

Stay in Naples, FL, and you won't want to go anywhere else! Been here fifty years, and found no other place in Florida as beautiful or enjoyable:o)

By the way, what's the cheapest way to fly one-way to NYC from Ft. Myers?

This post is over 2 years old. I am sure Pugsley has come and gone by now.