With limited parking, narrow streets, and congested traffic, driving in Old Town Key West is more of a pain than a convenience. Unless you're staying in one of the more remote accommodations, consider trading in the car for a bicycle. The island is small and as flat as a board, which makes it easy to negotiate, especially away from the crowded downtown. Many tourists also choose to cruise by moped, an option that can make navigating the streets risky, especially since there are no helmet laws in Key West. So be careful and spend the extra few bucks to rent a helmet; hundreds of visitors are seriously injured each year.

Rates for simple one-speed cruisers start at about $8 per day (from $40 per week). Mopeds start at about $12 for 2 hours, $25 per day, and $100 per week. Rents mountain bikes for $12 per day ($60 per week). Cruisers go for $8 per day and $40 per week. A $150 deposit is required for cruisers, $250 for mountain bikes.

Parking in Key West's Old Town is particularly limited. There is a well-placed municipal parking lot at Simonton and Angela streets just behind the firehouse and police station. If you have brought a car, you may want to stash it here while you enjoy the very walk able downtown section of Key West.

The City Transit System basically runs from Mallory Square to Stock Island and the airport, with buses running every 15 minutes or so. You can get printed schedules right on the bus.

Florida statutes require that bikers under 16 wear a helmet. Bicycle passengers under 4 years old must be in a sling or child seat. All bikes must have lamps or reflectors -- white in the front, and red in the back, visible from 500 ft — between sunset and sunrise.