Best Jet Ski Rentals in Key West
With year-round sunny, tropical weather and sparkling turquoise waters as far as the eye can see, Key West is the ultimate vacation destination for those who love being out on the water.
From kayaking and paddleboarding to kite surfing and parasailing, there are so many things to do on the water in Key West. You can even go snorkeling to see the only living coral reef in the continental US. And these are all just minutes, or in some cases, steps from your Key West vacation home.
While there’s no shortage of water sports in the Florida Keys, if you’re looking for an adventure on the water that really gets the heart pumping, look no further than jet skiing. One of the most popular water sports in Key West, jet skis are a bit like motorcycles on the water, but much easier to ride, and you can explore the waters around Key West in one.
Ready to hit the water? Here’s everything you need to know about jet ski rentals in Key West!
Jet Ski Rentals in Key West Must-Knows
There’s nothing quite like cruising the coastline of Key West on a jet ski, but there are a few important things to know before you go.
Jet Ski Tours vs. Rentals
The waters surrounding Key West are part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which is home to delicate coral reefs and a variety of endangered marine life.
Due to this, you’ll notice that most jet ski operators in Key West only offer guided tours. These tours offer the best way for participants to explore the water, led by expert guides to ensure your safety and the protection of the natural habitats you’ll be navigating through.
If you had your heart set on jumping on a jet ski and cruising solo, don’t worry, you still have options. You’ll find “freestyle” tours where you’ll be guided to an open area and supervised while you hit the gas and stretch your sealegs, and beach rentals, where you can jet ski within a designated beachfront area.
Rules & Requirements
All jet ski operators may have slightly different rules regarding age, weight limits, and booking requirements, but there are a few universal rules and requirements.
General Jet Ski Safety
All riders and guests must complete a safety briefing and be able to communicate with the guides, read posted signs, and wear life jackets while on the jet ski. Drinking alcohol before or during your jet ski tour is also not permitted — so save the margaritas for after!
Boater Safety License
Those born after 1988 must obtain a Boater Safety License before being permitted to drive the jet ski. This can easily be obtained online ahead of time, or through some tour operators if you arrive early. They’ll inform you of this during the booking process.
Weather Conditions
While most days in Key West are sunny and perfect for jet skiing, if inclement weather rolls in or the water is too choppy, your captain may have to reschedule your tour. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before booking any water activities when visiting Key West.
Where to Go Jet Skiing in Key West
Ready to ride some jet skis? Here’s where you can find the best ski rentals in Key West!
Sunset Watersports Key West
- sunsetwatersportskeywest.com/tours-activities/jet-skiing
- 201 William Street, Key West, FL (additional departure locations and shuttles offered)
- Offers 90-minute guided jet ski tours with multiple stops, plus boat tours, kayak rentals, snorkeling trips, dolphin watching tours, and more
- Several departure times offered daily, weather permitting
Rated #1 on Tripadvisor and one of the best ways to try jet skiing in Key West, Sunset Watersports offers guided jet ski tours through 28 miles of stunning Key West coastline.
You’ll cruise through the waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, explore both the Atlantic and Gulf sides of the island, see the iconic Southernmost Point and the Historic Key West Harbor, and stop for a swim at a sandbar.
If you’re trying to decide between trying your hand at jet skis or other watersports, Sunset Watersports has you covered. The “Do-It-All” Watersports Package includes jet skis, plus snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, inflatables, lunch, drinks, and more for a fun-filled day on the water.
Fury Jet Ski Tours
- furycat.com/key-west/jet-ski
- Multiple departure points on the west side of the island (choose when booking)
- Offers 90-minute guided jet ski tours with multiple stops, plus snorkel tours, sunset cruises, parasailing, and more
- Several departure times offered daily, weather permitting
One of the most recognized names in watersports in the Florida Keys, Fury boasts a fleet of top-of-the-line jet skis that can accommodate up to three people — a favorite among families!
You’ll zip around Key West’s backcountry, exploring remote islands, taking a dip in the water, and hopefully spotting some marine life along the way. It’s not unusual to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and more while on a Fury jet ski tour.
If you want to extend the fun and try other watersports, Fury also offers the Ultimate Adventure H2.0 package, which includes a catamaran cruise, banana boat ride, parasailing, jet ski ride, and a visit to a floating water park packed with inflatables to play on.
Barefoot Billy’s
- barefootbillys.com
- 720 Seminole Street, Key West, FL (additional departure locations offered for tours)
- Offers jet ski rentals and tours
- Rentals and tours offered daily, weather permitting
A Key West staple in watersports since 1988, Barefoot Billy’s not only offers guided jet ski tours, but it’s also one of the only places you can rent a jet ski and head out on your own (within a designated area).
You can choose from a 90-minute guided tour around the island with multiple stops, or a 30 or 60-minute jet ski rental to cruise the beachfront area — perfect for those who just want to get their feet wet (pun intended!) or just don’t have time for a full tour.
Whether you choose the tour or just want to chase some waves on your own, Barefoot Billy’s offers up good times on the water for all.
Key West Boat & Jet Ski Adventures
- keywestboatandjetskiadventures.com
- 5016 5th Ave, Key West, FL (located just over the bridge on Stock Island)
- Offers small group jet ski tours, sunset tours, and supervised “freestyle” jet ski riding, plus boat rentals, kayak rentals, and more
- Several jet ski tours offered daily, weather permitting
With a motto of “Smaller Groups = Better Experience,” Key West Boat & Jet Ski Adventures is perfect for those looking for a more personalized jet ski experience.
You’ll cruise along the waterways of Key West with a small group of 6 to 8 jet skis, taking the scenic route and looking for wildlife along the way. You may stop at mangrove islands, sandbars, Key West Harbor, and more (depending on weather and water conditions).
For a truly special experience, there’s nothing quite like the sunset tour. As the name implies, you’ll set out at sunset to catch some waves and take in some epic views of the sun setting over the water.
Stay and Play in Key West
With nearly endless sunshine and miles of pristine waters to explore, there’s no better way to get out on the water in Key West than with a jet ski. And with an abundance of jet ski tours and rentals available, the hardest part is choosing when and where you want to go.
Ready to hit the water in Key West? Book your stay with VHKW for the ultimate home base for all your Key West adventures. You’ll enjoy premium amenities like fully furnished vacation homes with private pools, hot tubs, ocean views, and much more.
And the best part is — you’ll always be just minutes away from all the marinas and beaches to go jet skiing, and all the other fun Key West activities you might want to try!
