Key West: Island Jet Ski Tour & Southernmost Point Ride

Summary

Circle Key West by jet ski see Mallory Square and sandbars up close

You’ll skim across turquoise water circling Key West by jet ski with a local guide, stopping at famous spots like Mallory Square and the Southernmost Point marker. There’s time to play or relax at an empty sandbar before heading back salty and grinning—bring your sense of adventure (and maybe an old towel).

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous at first. The Yamaha jet ski looked faster than anything I’d ever handled, but our guide (I think his name was Mike? Or maybe Mark—either way, he had that sun-bleached hair and easy laugh) made it feel like no big deal. He walked us through the basics right there on the quiet south end of Key West, where the water somehow smells both salty and sweet. I could hear gulls squabbling over something behind us. Once we got going, though, my nerves turned into this weird giddy rush—like riding a bike for the first time but with way more spray in your face.

The whole island jet ski tour is about 26 miles, which sounds long until you’re out there zipping past mangroves and watching pelicans dive. We circled all of Key West—seriously, all the way around—and stopped now and then so Mike/Mark could point out stuff I’d never have noticed. At Mallory Square he told us stories about sunset crowds (he claims Hemingway once tried to outdrink a local bartender there—who knows if that’s true). We even saw a couple of dolphins off in the distance; someone yelled “turtle!” but it turned out to be just a floating coconut. Still counts for excitement.

One of my favorite bits was when we pulled up near the Southernmost Point marker. You always see it from land, crowded with people lining up for photos—but from the water? It’s just this bright spot against all that blue. And then later we stopped at this empty sandbar where everyone just jumped off their skis and floated or messed around in knee-deep water. The sun felt heavy on my shoulders and someone handed me a cold bottle of water—I can still taste that mix of salt and plastic cap (not fancy, but perfect right then). If you’re thinking about a day trip jet ski tour in Key West, don’t overthink it. Just go get wet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided jet ski tour around Key West

• Receive safety instructions on Yamaha PWC
• Ride Yamaha PWC at speeds up to 45 mph
• Circle the island on a 26-mile guided tour
• View Key West backcountry and Mallory Square
• Spot marine life like sea turtles and dolphins
• Learn history at Southernmost Point and Key West Bight
• Stop and relax at deserted sandbar

Top questions

How long is the Key West Island Jet Ski Tour?

The guided route circles all of Key West for about 26 miles.

Does the tour include stops at famous landmarks?

Yes, you’ll see places like Mallory Square and stop near the Southernmost Point marker.

Are towels and life jackets provided?

Yes, both towels and life jackets are included with your booking.

Is there time to swim or play during the tour?

You’ll stop at a deserted sandbar where you can relax or swim before continuing.

What kind of jet skis are used on this tour?

The tour uses Yamaha personal watercraft known for comfort and handling.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

The guide provides safety instructions so beginners can join confidently.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart issues.

Where does the tour start in Key West?

The starting point is on the south end of Key West near Casa Marina.

What’s included

Your day includes use of Yamaha jet skis with safety instructions from a local guide, plus life jackets and towels provided for everyone. There’s also time to swim or relax at a sandbar before returning to shore together.