Key West RV Guide for Families

This Key West RV Guide for Families is based on our real trips to the Southernmost City and everything we have learned along the way. The open road has taken our family a lot of places. Mountains, coastlines, state parks, and everything in between. But nothing quite prepares you for that moment on the Overseas Highway when the mainland disappears in your rearview mirror, the water stretches out on both sides, and you realize you’re almost there. Key West hits different. And trust us – getting there in a Class A motorhome makes it even better.

We’ve made the trip to Key West several times now, and every time we leave we’re already planning the next visit. If you’re thinking about taking your family to the Southernmost City by RV, here’s everything you need to know from people who’ve actually done it.

Palm tree and turquoise water in Key West

Where to Stay: Boyd’s Key West Campground

There’s really only one answer when it comes to RV camping in Key West, and that’s Boyd’s Key West Campground on Stock Island. Located at Mile Marker 5 on the Atlantic side, Boyd’s has been welcoming RV families since 1963 and it shows – this place knows how to take care of campers.

We’ve stayed here multiple times and it’s become our go-to base camp for Key West. The sites are waterfront, the pool is great for the kids, and the staff will actually escort you to your site and help you back in – which you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever tried to squeeze a Class A into a tight spot. Boyd’s can accommodate rigs up to 45 feet with full hookups including water, sewer, cable, and 50/30 AMP electric.

Fair warning: Key West is expensive, and Boyd’s is no exception. But when you factor in the location – just minutes from Duval Street – it’s worth every penny. Book well in advance, especially if you’re visiting in winter or around a holiday. This place fills up fast.

Waterfront view near Stock Island and Boyd's Campground

Getting Around: Golf Carts, Bikes, and the Bus

Here’s a pro tip that will save your sanity: don’t try to drive your RV around Key West. The streets are narrow, parking is a nightmare, and you’ll miss all the fun being stressed behind the wheel.

Instead, rent a golf cart. Several rental companies will deliver one right to your campsite at Boyd’s, and it becomes your best friend for the entire trip. Golf carts are everywhere in Key West and perfect for cruising Duval Street, hopping between restaurants, or exploring the quieter side streets with the kids.

Bikes are another great option – the island is flat and very bikeable, and you can get from Boyd’s into downtown in about 15 minutes. There’s also a city bus that runs regularly and gets you to all the main spots without the parking headache.

Fishing: On the Water Is Where It’s At

Boat speeding across bright blue water near Key West

If your family loves fishing, Key West will not disappoint. We’ve done both inshore and offshore fishing around the Keys and it’s some of the best we’ve experienced anywhere in the country.

Charter fishing trips out of Key West give you access to some incredible fishing – think tarpon, permit, bonefish in the backcountry flats, and snapper, grouper, and mahi offshore. Half-day and full-day charters are available out of several marinas near Boyd’s. If you have your own boat, the waters around Key West and the surrounding islands offer endless opportunities.

The kids absolutely love it. There’s something about saltwater fishing in the Keys that hooks everyone – no pun intended.

Where to Eat: Don’t Miss These Spots

Key West has no shortage of restaurants, but here are the ones that have earned a permanent spot on our must-do list every visit.

Hogfish Bar and Grill – This is our number one recommendation and it’s right on Stock Island, practically walking distance from Boyd’s. Tucked into Safe Harbor Marina, Hogfish is a locals’ spot in the best possible way – no pretension, just incredible fresh seafood and cold drinks with boats bobbing in the background. The Fried Hogfish Sandwich on Cuban bread is legendary for a reason. Get there early or be prepared to wait, because word is out about this place. Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 PM – don’t miss it.

Downtown Duval Street – Duval Street is the main drag and it’s packed with restaurants, bars, and live music. It’s lively, colorful, and very Key West. With the family you can easily spend a few hours here between meals and people-watching. The kids will love the energy and you’ll love the fresh seafood and frozen drinks at nearly every corner.

Key West is also famous for its conch fritters, key lime pie, and Cuban coffee – make sure you try all three before you leave.

Things to Do with the Family

Beyond fishing and eating, Key West has plenty to keep the whole family busy:

Biking around the island is a must – rent bikes for a few hours and explore the quieter neighborhoods away from the tourist crowds. You’ll find beautiful old homes, tucked-away cafes, and a completely different side of Key West.
The Southernmost Point Buoy is a classic photo stop – yes, there’s usually a line, but it’s worth it. The kids get a kick out of standing at the literal southernmost point in the continental United States.
Mallory Square at sunset is a Key West tradition. Street performers, artists, and the entire city gather to watch the sun go down over the Gulf. It’s one of those experiences that never gets old no matter how many times you see it.
Snorkeling and diving off the coral reefs around Key West are world-class. If your family is into the water, a reef trip is an absolute must.

Tips for RVing to Key West

A few things we’ve learned the hard way so you don’t have to:

Reserve Boyd’s months in advance – especially for winter travel. Sites book up quickly and you won’t find a last-minute spot.
Fuel up before you hit the Keys – gas prices get increasingly painful as you head south on US 1, and there aren’t many options once you’re on the islands.
The Overseas Highway is stunning but be prepared for a slow drive. The bridges, the scenery, and the general pace of Keys life means you won’t be rushing anywhere. That’s kind of the point.
Budget more than you think you’ll need. Key West is genuinely one of the more expensive destinations we’ve visited. Food, activities, and campsite costs add up fast. But every time we’ve gone, we’ve felt it was worth it.

Final Thoughts

Key West is one of those places that gets under your skin. It’s loud and quirky and expensive and there’s absolutely nowhere else like it. Bringing the family in the RV and making Boyd’s your home base is the best way we’ve found to experience it – you get the freedom to come and go on your own schedule while still being close to everything.

We’ll be back. We always come back.

Have you taken your family to Key West? Drop a comment below and let us know your favorite spots!

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