places to visit from miami to key west

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Driving from Miami to Key West? Here's what to see, eat and do.

We’ve got your essential list of pit stops for your road trip from Miami to Key West.

Your list of things to do on the way from Miami to Key West is longer than one might think. Maybe that’s because the drive is a bit longer than most people think it is. It’ll take you just under four hours (with light traffic) to get to Key West from Miami. When you hit Key Largo, the road begins to narrow and your trip will become slower—though undeniably more beautiful. Luckily, your drive is lined with some of the best attractions in Miami , some of the best tacos in Miami and much, much more. If there was ever a trip worth taking your time and making a couple of pit stops, Miami to Key West is it.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Miami

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Things to do on the way from Miami to Key West

Coral castle museum.

• Things to do
• Leisure City
• price 1 of 4

This pretty insane collection of outdoor sculptures and structures were all allegedly carved in the ‘20s by a heartbroken Latvian fellow named Ed. It's worth the trip if only because Ed worked awfully hard on all these carvings and his story is actually quite incredible and slightly unbelievable. You can learn all about it at the museum for an admission of $18 for adults.

Knaus Berry Farm

• Markets and fairs

Mostly everyone in Miami knows about this immensely popular farm and bakery selling tasty, local and fresh treats. You can pick your own strawberries to snack on during the trip too. Though the farm is only open for part of the year (roughly November through April) Knaus Berry’s cinnamon rolls are the stuff of legend. People talk about those rolls like the apostles talked about Jesus. Pro tip: it’s cash-only!

Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery

Interested to try some avocado wine? This local winery (with a restaurant and brewery also on the property) makes some pretty unorthodox wines from local fruits like avocados and lychees. Schnebly is also huge—with lush walkable grounds perfect for sipping and strolling. You’ve probably never had wines like this before. And, if you like what you try, you can take home a few bottles for your collection. 

Taqueria Morelia

• Florida City
• price 2 of 4

Here's a very worthy member of Homestead’s legendary repertoire of Mexican food. Taqueria Morelia often finds itself in the conversation of the area’s best Mexican joints. Authentic, delicious and cheap—Taqueria Morelia is a perfect place to fuel up before strapping in for the last couple hours of your drive.

Robert is Here

Robert's is a delightful throwback Florida fruit stand where you can buy fresh-as-it-gets produce as well as other local products and treats. The other reason to venture here: the milkshakes! If you go here and don’t get one of the thick, famous shakes (made with fresh fruit and soft-serve) then we are officially no longer friends. But if you bring us a strawberry key lime pie shake then we are officially best friends again.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

This state park that draws in hundreds per day with its gorgeous reefs, which you can see via snorkel, scuba or glass-bottom boat. The daily snorkeling tours are one of Pennekamp’s most popular attractions. You’ll get about an hour and a half in the water and the chance to observe wildlife and the famous underwater Christ of the Deep statue.

The Fish House is a beloved seafood joint with all the salty Florida kitsch you could hope for. They do the classics here and they do them damn well. The smoked fish dip, the fried conch, the snapper and especially the key lime pie, which is an essential dessert here. You should probably get one to-go too. You know, just in case.

Alabama Jacks

The best dive bar in all of Key Largo, featuring a lively cast of all the lovable misfits who find themselves down in this area of South Florida. It’ll put you in the Keys mood for sure. Because you’re a dive bar connoisseur. If you prefer your bar with a little more elegance, maybe this ain’t for you.

African Queen

The African Queen is the original vessel from the Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn film of the same name. This vintage piece of movie history was built in 1912 and is a registered National Historic site. Not only can you look at it, but the African Queen is available for private cruises. Do some sightseeing or take a dinner cruise to the Pilot House Marina.  99701 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo.

Theater of the Sea

This tiny animal park will put you up close with dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles and more fish and marine mammals. Theater of the Sea’s animal interaction packages give you a good chance to get much closer to the wildlife than you’d expect. Swim with dolphins, chill with a sea lion or pet a ray.

Sombrero Beach

Tired of driving? Need a break? Stop at this very pretty beach/park in Marathon. There are bathrooms, picnic tables and volleyball courts there as well. Stretch your legs, use the restroom and maybe your four-legged friend does too (Sombrero Beach is pet-friendly). Get a little beach time in before you head into the final half of your Key West trip. Located at Sombrero Beach Rd and Corte Del Brisas .

Florida Keys Brewing Company

Islamorada's premier taproom is full of Keys charm. The patio/beer garden—with blue and pink furniture—is a lovely place to spend an hour working your way through a flight of beer. Stop here because you need to fill up on beer for your trip and you might as well drink local. Sample a few, pick one you like and throw a 12-pack in the car.

Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge is an impressively large bridge linking Marathon Key to Key West. It was first completed in 1912 but has—thankfully—been updated since. Well, it’s not like you can avoid it. It’s the only way you’re getting to Key West via car. But you should still take a moment to appreciate it and soak in the view. This is when it pays to be a passenger. 

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Miami to Key West Road Trip Itinerary | All the Best Stops!

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 30 April, 2024

This thin strand of pavement skipping along bridges through the Florida Keys is one of the best road trips in the country. If you are thinking about making the drive from Miami to Key West, this Key West drive guide is for you.

The distance from Miami to Key West is a 165 Mile drive and should take you just 3 hours and 20 minutes if you drive to Key West straight without any stops – but then you’d miss one of the greatest American road trips.

We suggest a 2-3 day road trip driving through the Florida Keys to hit most of the best road trip stops, with a few nights to end your Key West drive.

We love this drive and have personally done it eight times, and we’re heading back again this year! We always start our drive to Key West in Miami, but you can easily reverse the guide below if you drive northbound from Key West to Miami.

In this Key West road trip guide, we will share some of our favorite things to do in the Florida Keys and the best stops in the Florida Keys along the Overseas Highway!

• Best Stops on a Miami to Key West Drive
• Our Favorite Places to Stay in the Florida Keys
• Where to Eat on a Key West Road Trip
• Things to do in Key West & Where to Eat
• Miami to Key West FAQ

Using the Mile Markers on the Overseas Highway

The first thing to understand is that most of the attractions on a Miami to Key West road trip are referenced by what Mile Marker they are located near.

At Mile Marker 118, you are officially in the Florida Keys! From here, you are just over 100 miles from Key West, with lots of fun adventures ahead of you.

At the southwestern end of Key West lies the end of the road at Mile Marker 0. Between those mile markers, there are plenty of amazing stop-offs with lots of fun and adventures.

On your drive to Key West, you’ll pass through hundreds of small islands, which are called Keys, that make up the Florida Keys. The Keys are all connected by Highway 1 or “The Overseas Highway.”

Top 20 Best Places to Stop on the Drive from Miami to Key West

Every good road trip needs a destination, but many times, the things to see along the way are what really make the trip, and the drive from Miami to Key West is no different.

The Overseas Highway is full of fun and sometimes quirky stops to break up the drive on the way down to Key West. This great American road trip is full of gorgeous beaches, Florida State Parks, tasty restaurants & breweries, and more.

Here’s a collection of some of our favorite stops that are organized from north to south, as you’d find them on the drive down to Key West, labeled by the nearest mile marker on HWY 1.

If you are driving from Key West to Miami, you’ll start at the bottom and work your way up to Miami.

Many people choose to start their Miami to Key West drive by flying into this vibrant city and renting a car in Miami – but don’t just land and leave Miami.

There are a lot of great sights, beaches, and, of course, amazing restaurants in Miami. If you are starting your Florida Keys drive in Miami, do yourself a favor and spend at least a night one night in Miami.

If you do spend a day or two in Miami, here are some of our favorite things to do in Miami to help plan your ultimate Miami itinerary. If you get a rainy day, check out some of the click here for a list of Miami museums.

We really like to stay at this Miami hotel, the Iberostar Berkeley Shore Hotel . It is in a great location right on Miami Beach, with a nice pool, a beach area with chairs & umbrellas (a big selling point for us), parking, and more.

Another good place to stay in Miami, and where we recently stayed, is this hotel Uma House by Yurbban South Beach . It is located in South Beach, but not right on the beach.

The hotel is new, has a great location, and is an easy walk to South Beach and restaurants. It is a super cute smaller hotel that has room options with separate bedrooms, which are great for families traveling with kids in Miami.

2. Everglades National Park

On your way down to the Florida Keys on Highway 1, a turn-off just south of Florida City will take you into a portion of the Everglades National Park.

In this guide, we will focus more on the Florida Keys portion of the road trip, but if you have more time, Everglades National Park is definitely worth a stop.

Most of the Florida Everglades airboat tour companies don’t leave from Key Largo. Click here for more information on Florida Everglades tours .

Click here for the best Everglades National Park tour – Small group boat, kayak, and walking guided Eco Tour. 

3. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – (Mile Marker 102.5)

This Florida State Park was the first underwater park in the United States and covers about 70 square nautical miles. At John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, there are mangrove swamps to kayak and hammocks to lounge in, but the main draw to the park is what lies beneath the surface.

Under the waves, you’ll find beautiful coral reefs, plenty of sea life, and even an underwater sculpture. In addition to the natural wonders, the visitor center also has a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium filled with some of the same sea life you’ll find in the state park.

If you have time, this is our favorite snorkel trip in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.  A glass bottom boat tour is a must, book this really good, and super cheap boat tour .

Before or after visiting the state park, stop at Alabama Jacks, our favorite tiki bar in Key Largo. If you are looking for another nearby state park, just a few minutes’ drive away is Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, which is at mile marker 106.

Snorkeling in Key Largo – Best Places to Go

Where to Stay Between Miami and Key West

Most people rush their drive down to Key West, which is deserving of your time, but there are lots of things to see in the Northern and Middle Keys, too.

We suggest staying at least a night or two in the Northern or Middle Keys and, if you have time on your road trip, both.

• Iberostar Berkeley Shore Hotel – Miami
• Kona Kai Resort – Key Largo
• Cheeca Lodge – Isla Morada
• Southernmost Beach Resort – Key West

4. Spiegel Grove Ship Wreck (about 6 miles offshore from Mile Marker 102)

This massive Navy ship sits about 6 miles from the shore of Key Largo and is one of the top dive sites in the Florida Keys.

In 2002, it was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef and home for marine life. At the time of the sinking, the 512 ft ship was the largest ship ever to be intentionally sunk for use as an artificial reef for scuba diving. It is a must for divers visiting the Florida Keys.

5. Cruise on the Africa Queen (Mile Marker 100)

Movie buffs will surely want to pull over to take a scenic ride through the canals of Key Largo aboard the ship from the movie The African Queen .

This boat, built in 1912 and featured in the 1951 movie starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, was built in East Africa and worked there building railroads before it became a star.

6. Mile 88 Beach & MM88 Tiki Bar (Mile Marker 88)

Soak in the tiki vibes at Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach and Bar. With an unobstructed view to the west, this is also a great spot for sunset and a few sundowners.

If you want to hit some of the best Florida Keys bars , make sure to pull off at Mile Marker 88!

7. Rain Barrel Artisan’s Village & Lobster Statue (Mile Marker 86)

This road trip stop in the Florida Keys is easy to spot, with a statue of a giant lobster named Betsy sitting out front.

Many people stop for a selfie with the lobster and then realize there is a fun artist village here as well.

8. Islamorada Sandbar Island Party (Near Mile Marker 84)

The sandbar located right offshore from Islamorada is the perfect place to spend an afternoon in the Florida Keys!

You’ll find boats parked here just about every day, but on Sundays – this is the place to be.

On the weekends’ hundreds of boats gather for an informal party in the crystal clear waist-deep water! You can charter a boat of the day and enjoy this unique local party.

Join this Waverunner tour, which visits the famous Islamorada Sandbar, mangrove tunnels, go under Whale Harbor Bridge, and more!

Another great option if you are traveling with a group and looking to go on a fun tiki boat. You can rent this Tiki boat for a private 3 hours Islamorada Sandbar Tour .

9. History of Diving Museum (Mile Marker 83)

Whether you are a diving enthusiast or not, the history of Diving Museum should be a part of anyone’s Key West road trip itinerary.

Inside, there is a fascinating collection of diving equipment dating back hundreds of years – and YES, you can even put on an old-school diving helmet!

10. Islamorada Beer Company (Mile Marker 82)

You can’t miss the bright yellow building that make up Islamorada Beer Company and their adjoining distillery. Pull up a seat at the bar and grab a flight of tasty beers from the long list of brews.

Their IPAs were pretty solid, and it was fun to try some of the beers that included regional ingredients and local flare.

Best Bars in Islamorada

11. cheeca lodge & spa (near mile marker 82).

After a long day of driving, nothing works out the kinks like a good massage. Here at Cheeca Lodge , they have one of the best spas in the Florida Keys.

On your way to Key West, indulge in a massage and make time for lunch at the Atlantic Edge restaurant on the property, which offers great views of the sea. If you are looking for a waterfront restaurant in Islamorada , this is a great pick.

12. Florida Keys Brewing Company (Mile Marker 81.5)

You don’t have to go very far between stops on a road trip from Miami to Key West to find fun places to grab a drink.

Also, one in Islamorada is the Florida Keys Brewing Company, which is one of the top breweries in the area. Their bottle cap tiled beer garden and taproom are surely worth pulling over for in your voyage down the Keys.

13. Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s Restaurant (Mile Marker 77) – One of the Best Stops

One of our favorite stops on our Florida Keys road trip was Robbie’s Restaurant. Where else in the world can you have a 5-foot-long fish jump out of the water to grab a fish from your hand?

Robbie’s is famous for its terrapin feeding, which started after trying to nurse an injured fish back to health. You can buy a bucket of “fish food” to feed the terrapin, but just be careful. These fish are always hungry!

They also make some great food. It is one of our favorite places to eat in Islamorada . They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We have eaten all three meals here. This is a must-visit stop for us every time we drive to Key West. The food is really good value for the price.

14. Dolphin Research Center (Mile Marker 59)

The Dolphin Research Center provides a forever home for animals that have been recused and rehabilitated but can’t be released back into the wild.

The research center was established in 1984 by Jayne & Armando Rodriguez as a non-profit to provide a habitat for dolphins and educational experiences for visitors.

15. Turtle Hospital (Mile Marker 48.5)

The Turtle Hospital started helping everyone’s favorite sea creatures back in 1986. Since then, they have rehabbed and released more than 1,500 turtles back into the water surrounding the Florida Keys.

On your road trip in the Keys, you can stop in and see the turtles that are currently being treated on one of their 90-minute tours that start on the hour from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.

16. Seven Mile Bridge (Mile Marker 47-40)

One of the most impressive bridges you’ll ever drive across is located on the west end of Marathon in the Middle Keys.

As the name implies, this bridge spans seven miles across the sea, and in some spots, it’s so long and straight you can’t see the end of it.

Here, you’ll also find a walking bridge that was once a railway – it spans this stretch, too. However, in 2019, it’s under construction and not open the entire length.

For some really good views of the Seven Mile Bridge, head to Sunset Grille & Raw Bar in Marathon. This is one of the best restaurants in Marathon and our favorite place to watch the sunset in Marathon.

17. Bahia Honda State Park (Mile Marker 37)

When putting together your Key West drive map, make sure to save an hour or part of the day to explore Bahia Honda State Park. This state park is one of the best state parks in the Florida Keys.

Bahia Honda State Park has some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. The entire state park is over 500 acres and offers great snorkeling opportunities.

Head to the concession stand for snacks, kayak rentals, and information on their snorkeling tour to Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. Bahia Honda State Park is less than half an hour’s drive from Marathon.

If you’re driving from Miami to Key West in an RV or campervan, there are three campgrounds at Bahia Honda State Park with a total of 80 campsites.

There are even three cabin rentals at Bahia Honda State Park, but your car must be able to go under the Bahia Honda Bridge with a max height of 6 feet 8 inches.

Reservations for camping at Bahia Honda State Park and cabins are in high demand. Reservations can be made 11 months in advance.

18. No Name Pub (Near Mile Marker 30)

This pub with no name is worth the short detour off of the Overseas Highway near the key that shares the “No Name” name. This place is full of kitsch, with the walls and ceilings covered in dollar bills.

It’s one of those old-time places that they just don’t make anymore. If this sounds like your kind of place, be sure to build it into your road trip itinerary for a drink or a bite to eat.

Renting a Car in Florida

Some people drive their own car from their hometown all the way to Key Wet. Some people rent a car in Miami and drive from Miami to Key West. Some people rent a car in Key West and drive to Miami.

We have taken several Florida road trips, driving from Wisconsin down to Key West. We also rented a car in Miami and then started our Key West drive from there, and then flew home from Key West. There is no right or wrong way.

We use this car rental company when renting a car in Florida. They have the best prices, free cancellation, and no hidden costs.

We have found that it is best to fly into Miami, rent a car in Miami , drive from Miami to Key West, and fly home from Key West.

If time is not a problem, it is cheaper to return the rental car to Miami, and flights from Miami are almost always cheaper than flying out of Key West airport.

Where to Eat in the Upper & Middle Keys

Sol by the sea.

Fine dining with unobstructed sunset views in Key Largo at the Playa Largo Resort & Spa. It’s an excellent place for a special dinner or to celebrate being in the Keys! Many of the dishes here take hints of Caribbean Influences.

Mrs. Mac’s

An upper keys icon serving up classic dishes with an easy-going flare that made the Keys what they are. This place is a must for breakfast or brunch before continuing your Key West Road Trip.

It is one of the best restaurants in Key Largo for sure.

Atlantic’s Edge

Located at the Cheeca Lodge, Atlantic’s Edge is the perfect place for lunch or dinner with fantastic ocean views. We highly suggest the fresh fish tacos and salad if you are looking for a lighter lunch.

Chef Michaels

Chef Michaels is one of the best upscale restaurants in the Upper Keys and Islamorada’s top restaurants . If you can get a reservation, we highly recommend it. They are known for their fresh seafood and steaks at Chef Michales.

Hungry Tarpon Restaurant

The Hungry Tarpon Restaurant is located at the famous Robbies of Islamorada for feeding the tarpon. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or drink before or after feeding the tarpon.

We stopped in for breakfast in Islamorada . Portions are large, the food is tasty, and it’s a great value.

The Lower Keys

As you make your way further south, the Keys become less populated and more natural until you get to the final few islands, like Key West.

While there may not be as many pull-offs with signposts, there are still many natural places to explore in this more rugged and wild stretch of the Florida Keys.

Keep your eye out for nice beaches like Bahia Honda and many places to put a kayak in the water.

Best Things To Do In Key West On A Road Trip

Once you reach Key West, you’ll have enough things to do to fill a few days and then some.

We compiled a Key West itinerary and a shortlist of our favorite things to do in Key West to help you make the most of your next road trip.

Sunset Sail in Key West

One of the best things to do after a journey down the Florida Keys is to sit back and let someone else do the driving or sailing rather aborad a sunset catamaran cruise.

We sailed on this sunset sail with a full bar and live music with Sebago Watersports , and we highly recommend them. Sit back, enjoy a nice cold beverage, and watch sun set over the Gulf of Mexico.

Explore Duval Street at Night (and Day)

Duval Street is to Key West, as Bourbon Street is to New Orleans. While only slightly tamer (certain festivals excluded), Duval Street has a reputation for great Key West nightlife .

Just about any night of the year, you can find great live music, fun, and entertainment. The weekends are when the real parties are, while regional visitors are also coming down to partake in the parties.

If it is your first time in Key West, we suggest joining this Key West Pub Crawl . It will give you the lay of the land and include five drinks, and you’ll probably make a few friends to join you out later that night.

However, this doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to see on Duval Street while the sun is out. This historic street is home to a number of great art galleries, shops, and attractions – plus, you’re on vacation, and the bars are open during the day too!

Related Article: Things to do in Key Largo

Kayaking with Lazy Dog

We went on this Key West Mangrove Kaying tour with Lazy Dog . In our opinion, it was one of our favorite tours in Key West.

Grab a paddle and head out into the mangroves kayaking. You can rent kayaks here or take a guided kayak tour, which will bring you to the beautiful backwaters of Key West.

On one of their tours, you’ll paddle through mangrove creeks with blueish-green water, at some points only a few inches deep.

You’ll have a chance to spot all sorts of wildlife above and below the surface. Nurse sharks, jellyfish, and sea birds are frequently seen while kayaking in the lower keys. As a bonus, on some tours, you can even bring your dog!

Hemingway House

The world-renowned author Ernest Hemingway called Key West home for most of the 1930s. During his time in the Keys, his most successful books were published.

While in Key West, you can visit the home he shared with his wife of the time, Pauline. The Hemingways no longer live here, but descendants of Hemmingway’s 6-toed cats can still be found in the house and garden.

You can join this Hemingway Food and Walking tour . It starts outside the Hemingway House (it does not go inside the house, so you’ll have to do that on your own).

The tour follows in Hemingway’s footsteps, giving you a glimpse of his life and the history of Key West.

Stop in for a Drink at Sloppy Joe’s

A Key West trip would not be complete without a stop at Sloppy Joe’s! It is always busy, but the service is good and efficient.

It was made famous by one of Key West’s most memorable residents, Ernest Hemmingway, who frequented the bar and allegedly had a hand in naming the place.

Today, you won’t find Hemmingway, but you will find a big, open, lively bar with live music and food.

However, if you visit in July, you might see Hemmingway or at least a really good doppelganger at the annual Hemmingway Lookalike contest held at Sloppy Joe’s.

If you join the Hemingway Food and Walking tour , you will visit Sloppy Joe’s, as it is an important stop.

They are also super child friendly. On our second Key West trip, our son was one, and on our last trip to Key West, we had a three-year-old and one-year-old!

Another Key West travel tip – Sloppy Joe’s serves really good virgin drinks! I was pregnant on our first Key West road trip, and it was a nice, tasty surprise to see on their menu.

Key Lime Pie at Kermit’s

While every storefront from Mile Marker 118 to the furthest piers in Key West all claim to have the best Key Lime Pie , Kermit’s is the real deal.

Don’t miss this Key West institution on your Key West road trip! For a mid-day snack, be sure to grab a chocolate-dipped frozen slice of Key Lime pie on a stick. YES – it’s as good as it sounds.

Smathers Beach

This deep sandy beach located on the southern shoreline of Key West is arguably the best beach on the island .

Despite its stunning white sand, it’s not bursting at the seams with visitors. During most times of the year, you’ll have no problem finding a spot to lay your beach towel.

Southernmost Point Marker

This painted concrete buoy is a popular photo spot marking the piece of land furthest south in the Continental United States. From here, it’s said to be a short 90 miles to Cuba.

Snapping a selfie at the Southernmost Point Marker is a must on a Florida Keys road trip. A little Key West travel tip – go early!

The line to get your photo gets super long. If you go before 9 a.m., there are very few tourists waiting. This way, you can take a few photos.

Dolphin Watch and Snorkel with Honest Eco on their Electric Boat

Set sail with Key West’s first electric catamaran for a truly memorable eco-friendly experience with local wildlife.

Dolphins are regularly spotted in the water just offshore of Key West, and the snorkeling is good with clear waters.

This is the exact boat trip we took with Honest Eco. Check rates here .

Mile Marker Zero

This spot here ceremoniously marks the end of your Miami to Key West drive. This is the end of the road – Mile Marker Zero.

There are two signs, one on each side of the road – one for the end of the road and one for the beginning.

We suggest joining this guided bicycle tour of Old Town Key West , as it visits several of the stops on this list and more, including Mile Marker Zero.

Romantic Dinner at Latitudes on Sunset Key

Finish off any good road trip in style with dinner at Latitudes, voted one of the most romantic dinner spots in the country.

If you want a table at Latitudes for sunset, you need to make reservations as soon as you start planning your road trip.

Dinner tables are booked months in advance. If you have less time, you can also dine here for lunch. You won’t get the full effect without the sunset, but there is still some great food.

Where to Eat in Key West

There’s no shortage of great food in Key West. We were really surprised at all the good food we had while visiting – we didn’t have a plate that we weren’t impressed with.

In a city full of top-notch restaurants, it can be hard to pick where to go. Make sure to indulge in some fresh fish too. Here are some of our favorite places with the best seafood in Key West.

Here’s a list of some of our favorite restaurants in Key West and standout meals from our recent trip to Key West. Make sure to check out our complete best restaurants in Key West article.

Cafe Marquesa

Our favorite meal in Key West was at Cafe Marquesa. We enjoyed everything we had. Their menu often changes as everything is fresh. We highly recommend the shrimp & grits appetizer and beignets as a dessert.

The restaurant is one of Zagat’s highest-rated restaurants in Key West. The chef, Graham Dailey, has been on Iron Chef and trained under Anthony Bourdain. If you are putting together a Key West map with foodie destinations, Cafe Marquesa should be on it.

Matt’s Stock Island

If you love brunch, you have to go to Matt’s Stock Island for their Sunday brunch. Every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the brunch includes three buffets (including a raw bar), unlimited small plates, and bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas.

We dined for dinner one evening as we weren’t in town on a Sunday morning. We started our meal with crab beignets, scallops, and bacon, and each got today’s catch blackened. Make sure to save room for dessert, too. The Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream Sammich is where it’s at!

Kermit Key Lime Pie shop

In addition to the pies, Kermit’s is a local’s favorite lunch spot. On the menu are nice wraps and awesome fries for reasonable prices.

Of course, save room for pie—leaving without trying a slice of Key Lime Pie would be a sin!

Latitudes at Sunset Key

If you only have one splurge meal, it should probably be Latitudes out on Sunset Key, and it should be dinner at sunset. If you are looking for one of the best waterfront restaurants in Key West this is it!

As the name of the island suggests, the sunsets here are pretty amazing and make for a special night. Make your reservations well in advance.

Cuban Coffee Queen

Start your day off right with a cup of classic Cuban coffee. This tasty little shop has two locations, one downtown and another by the waterfront.

In addition to coffee, the Cuban Coffee Queen serves up smoothies, Cuban-inspired sandwiches, breakfast favorites, and even desserts. Don’t miss the giant Key West postcard painted on the side of their waterfront location.

If you are looking for a more filling meal, make sure to check out our best Cuban food in Key West article . There are tons of great Cuban restaurants in Key West.

Miami to Key West Road Trip FAQ

Q: what is the distance from miami, and how long does it take to drive from miami to key west, florida.

A: There are 165 miles between Miami and Key West, and if you drove it straight, the Key West drive time would take a little over 3 hours.

However, with all the coolest stops between Miami and Key West, you should really plan on 2-3 days for a proper Key West road trip.

This will give you enough time to stop and visit some state parks, Key Largo, Islamorada, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Everglades, Bahia State Park, and many more Key West drive highlights to experience the Florida Keys truly.

Q: How is the drive from Miami to Key West? Is it Worth it?

A: YES, it is one of the most scenic drives! Stop thinking about a Miami to Key West road trip and start planning. Keep reading to see all of the best stops between Miami and Key West along the route.

Q: Is it safe to drive from Miami to Key West?

A: Yes, the road from Miami to Key West is a popular drive with tourists and is very safe. You will mainly drive on the Overseas Highway (US Route 1), which goes from Key Largo to Key West.

Drive safely, take your time, and get ready for an epic road trip!

Depending on where in Miami you start your journey, it can take one hour to two hours to drive to Key Largo. Once in Key Largo, you will get on the Overseas Highway.

This part of the Key West drive is a straight shot. There is only one road to Key West. You literally can’t get lost.

Q:) How many bridges are the drive to Key West?

There are 42 bridges along the drive to Key West.

The most famous bridge in the Florida Keys is the Seven Mile Bridge, which is located just outside of Marathon. Seven Mile Bridge is seven miles long and connects Knight’s Key to Little Duck Key.

Q:) How many Keys are in the Florida Keys?

A:) There are over 800 keys that make up the Florida Keys that stretch over 180 miles. The longest key is Key Largo.

Q:) Driving Miami to Key West – When is the Best Time?

A:) There honestly isn’t a bad time. Driving to Key on the weekdays will result in fewer cars on the road and traffic.

If you are starting in Miami, make sure to check the traffic in Miami. We have always found leaving Miami early in the morning was better.

Once you are out of Miami and by Homestead/Florida City, traffic isn’t an issue. If you leave Miami before 8 a.m., there is a Starbucks in Florida City that you will be driving right by if you need some caffeine. It is about an hour’s drive from Miami to Florida City.

Q:) When is Hurricane Season in Key West and the Florida Keys?

A:) Technically, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 and ends November 30 every year.

Typically, hurricanes in Key West and the Florida Keys are more common from mid-August until mid-October. Remember, Florida is the hurricane capital of the United States.

The Miami to Key West drive is one of the coolest Florida road trips. 

Key west drive overview.

We hope our ultimate driving guide to Key West Florida has inspired you to take a Florida road trip. A Florida trip is always a great idea. We always have a great time in Southern Florida!

The  beaches in Florida  are a good portion of why we keep coming back time and time again.

If you have any Key West questions for us leave a comment below! If you have any Key West travel tips to share with us let us know!

Top 17 Things To Do in Key Largo Florida

Driving from Miami to Key West? Make sure to stop in Key Largo! There are tons of things to do in Key Largo you won’t want to miss.

15 Reasons to Put Panama City Beach on YOUR Bucket list

Panama City Beach is the perfect beach vacation. With its gorgeous beaches, diving, state parks, and more things to do in Panama City Beach.

14 Fun Things To Do in Fort Myers

With an average of 271 sunny days a year there isn’t a bad time to visit Fort Myers. The white sandy beaches are gorgeous, ton of things to do in Fort Myers, tasty restaurants, and much more to offer.

Don’t Forget to Pin Me for later!

Thursday 2nd of March 2023

Years ago I drove thru the Keys stopping in different spots and was on cloud 9 all day. It was one of the best days on earth so far for me and I am 63 now. You feel so free!!!

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Friday 24th of March 2023

The Keys def are cloud 9! You should come to do the drive again!!

Wednesday 11th of January 2023

Do you have a suggestion as to where to stay in Key West?

Friday 5th of January 2024

Right in Key West, we stayed at the Southern Most Resort and it was a great location. We walked most places and if needed took a cheap Uber.

Saturday 26th of November 2022

Thank you for this article. Trying some of these locations on our road trip to key west and can not wait!

Tuesday 1st of November 2022

Great article! I am planing a Miami to Keys roundtrip drive in March, I love many of the idea written here.

Friday 18th of March 2022

This information was fantastic! I have made my list and we are going on our trip soon. This was all so perfect. Now making the hotel reservations and cant wait for the food! I have stars by some of the places that I for sure dont want to miss. Thanks for the valuable info.

Miami to Key West: 25 Places to Stop Along the Way (Map + Photos)

In my opinion, driving from Miami to Key West is one of the most epic things you can do while visiting Florida! Sure, some people who want to visit Key West will just fly into Key West International Airport (EWY) , but I don’t recommend this! Why? Because you are missing out on SO many incredible adventures.

160 miles make up the distance between Miami to Key West. Within those miles, you have the opportunity to cross over 42 bridges connecting 34 keys. How amazing is that?!

In addition, within those 34 keys are some epic activities, like snorkeling through a lighthouse, kayaking through mangroves, feeding tarpon, walking across an old railway, and driving across a 7-mile long bridge! And that’s all before even arriving in Key West!

In this post, I’ll go over the 25 incredible stops I recommend on a Miami to Key West road trip. Of course, you can’t do all of these in one day, but this will give you a great list to choose from as you plan your vacation! If you are interested in breaking up this drive into a week-long vacation, make sure to check out my Key Largo to Key West road trip itinerary .

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link or book through an affiliate program, I receive a small commission at no cost to you! 

A Complete Guide on Driving from Miami to Key West: 25 Places to Stop

Frequently asked questions, is it worth driving to key west from miami.

In my opinion, of course!! Why else would I be writing this blog post?! In all seriousness, you CAN just fly from Miami (MIA) to Key West (EWY). However, I don’t recommend it! This drive is one of the most epic road trips in the USA. Don’t miss it by flying!

Is the drive from Miami to Key West easy?

It depends!! You need to plan your Miami to Key West drive strategically. For one, I recommend leaving Miami early in the morning or around lunch time. You want to avoid Miami rush hour, especially in the afternoon/evening. There is nothing worse than trying to drive through the heart of Miami at 5pm.. trust me.

In addition to Miami, it’s important to know that most of the drive through the Keys is on one or two lane roads. If there is traffic in the Keys, it can get very backed up! However, there’s not much you can do to avoid this.

How far is the drive from Miami to Key West?

The drive from Miami International Airport to Key West is about 160 miles and should take just over 3 hours, barring any major traffic delays!

Can Key West be a day trip from Miami?

It CAN be, but I don’t recommend it! For one, you will be driving at least 6 hours in one day, which doesn’t sound fun at all. Secondly, there are SO many amazing stops between Miami and Key West, which we will get into in this post. You are doing the entire Keys a disservice if you try to squeeze it all into one day.

When is the best time of year to drive from Miami to Key West?

This totally depends on your preferences! Winter is definitely the most popular time to do this drive, but you’ll be on the road with many other people. Plus, hotel prices are high, restaurants are busier, etc. My personal favorite time is the spring, between April and May. You can check out my blog post on the Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys for more info on this topic!

Are there tolls between Miami and Key West?

Depending on the route you take, you may have to pay tolls in Miami. However, once you get to the Keys, there are no tolls! I talk about this more in the next section 🙂

Planning Your Drive

Renting a car.

If you are flying into Miami International Airport (MIA), you will need to rent a car before starting your journey from Miami to Key West!

I highly recommend R entalCars.com . They allow you to compare prices across all of the major rental car companies. Plus, they have a great cancellation policy (typically free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance). Oh, and they price match!

For your scenic drive from Miami to Key West, I recommend getting a car with good fuel economy to save money! If you are driving BACK to Miami at the end of your trip, that’s over 300 miles you will be driving! With gas prices the way they are, you are going to want to save where you can!

Tolls from Miami to Key West

As mentioned above, you may have to pay tolls in Miami depending on the route you take. The most common route for the first leg of the trip, from Miami to Florida City, is along the Ronald Reagan Florida turnpike, which is a toll road. However, there are other routes you can take to avoid tolls, but it will take longer.

Once you arrive in Florida City, the rest of the drive from Miami to Key West is solely along Highway US 1, which is not a toll road (yay!). After leaving Florida City, you’ll cross over “The Stretch”. This 30-minute portion of the drive is your first introduction into the Keys! It’s a two lane road (there are some passing zones), and it ends in the beautiful Key Largo!

Miami to Key West Map

To make your trip planning even easier, I’ve created the below Google Map, which has links to all 25 places I mention below. You can easily export this map into your own Google Maps so you can reference it throughout your trip!

A Complete List of Where to Stop Between Miami and Key West

#1. explore everglades national park.

If you are an adventure lover, the first stop on your road trip from Miami to Key West should be Everglades National Park ! Did you know, in addition to being a National Park, the Everglades are also a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve?! How cool is that!

There are tons of things to do in Everglades National Park, like taking an airboat tour or kayaking through the mangroves ! Keep your eyes peeled for gators, snakes, and more!

#2. Try Some Local Food in Little Havana

 I highly recommend checking out one of the awesome Little Havana food tours on  GetYourGuide  during your time in Miami. It’s an incredible way to experience the very prominent Cuban culture in the area!

#3. Experience John Pennekamp State Park

Once you make it out of Miami and through the “Stretch”, you’ll find yourself in the incredible Key Largo, the first out of 30 inhabited Keys in the Florida Keys archipelago.

My top recommendation for things to do in Key Largo is snorkeling in John Pennekamp State Park . This park covers 178 nautical square miles (3 miles into the Atlantic Ocean and 25 miles in length). There are many different tours offered throughout the park, including snorkeling, diving, glass bottom boat tours, paddle boarding, kayaking, and more!

GetYourGuide has some great options, but I personally recommend doing a snorkel tour to visit the legendary underwater Christ Statue. You can read more about this option in my Key Largo Snorkeling Guide !

#4. Mangroves and Manatees Kayak to ur

If you haven’t noticed by now, my favorite types of activities are those out on the water! Another great activity to cross of your list while driving from Miami to Key West is a Mangroves and Manatees Kayak Tour .

The Florida manatee is one of my favorite animals, and they are very common in the Keys! On the above tour, you’ll kayak right through the mangroves and be on the lookout for these gentle giants, along with other wildlife!

Psst: If you are trying to decide which Key to visit, make sure to check out my Key Largo vs Key West comparison here!

#5. Go Shopping at the Rain Barrel Village

As you make your way from Key Largo to Islamorada, you’ll pass a GIANT spiny lobster on the side of the road. Her name is Betsy, and her home is Rain Barrel Village , a fun and quirky arts market.

Here you will find different boutiques, galleries, and storefronts. Rain Barrel Village is a great place to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and maybe buy some souvenirs!

#6. Try a Flight of Beer at Islamorada Brewing

Another great stop in Islamorada (my favorite Key!) is for a drink at Islamorada Brewing and Distillery. Islamorada Brewing opened in 2014 as a small brewery and have since grown into so much more, including lsamorada’s only distillery!

I recommend stopping here for a snack (or lunch) and a flight of local beer (make sure to try the Queen Conch and Sandbar Sunday!). This spot is kid and dog friendly, as they have an outdoor beer garden with games and food trucks!

#7. Snorkel at Alligator Reef Light House

If you are open to spending more than a few hours (or overnight) in Islamorada, I HIGHLY recommend taking a snorkel trip to Alligator Reef Light House.

This iconic spot is one of my favorite places in the world, for good reason! This light house must be visited by sea; however, once you arrive, you are greeted with the most incredible turquoise water and tropical fish! The best part of visiting is you get to snorkel THROUGH the light house!

To get here, you can rent a boat for the day or book a private a tour like this one !

#8. Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s

Made famous by their tarpon feeding activity , Robbie’s of Islamorada may be the most popular stop on the drive from Miami to Key West these days!

For less than $10, you can partake in this fun activity with the whole family. In addition, Robbie’s now has a small market on property where you can buy souvenirs. They also have a yummy restaurant on site, The Hungry Tarpon! I recommend stopping here for a Bloody Mary, a fish sandwich, and some tarpon feeding!

#9. Relax at the Islamorada Sandbar

My last recommendation for Islamorada is spending a few hours relaxing at the Islamorada Sandbar! Less than a mile offshore, you can get here by boat, paddle board, jet ski, or kayak!

The Sandbar is a popular spot among tourists and locals! The water is about waist-deep, so many people bring their floating chairs and coolers and spend the afternoon unwinding here!

#10. Visit the Marathon Turtle Hospital

As you continue along on your drive from Miami to Key West, the next major Key you will hit after Islamorada is Marathon! Marathon is a very popular Key and a great place to spend an extended period of time if you have little ones.

One of the top rated activities in Marathon is visiting the Turtle Hospital ! Opening their doors in 1986, the Marathon Turtle Hospital focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured sea turtles! They also have a passion for educating the public about turtles, which is exactly why you should visit.

Admission is $30 for adults and $15 for children, and reservations are highly recommend!

#11. Interact with Dolphins Ethically

A fun activity to do in the Keys is to swim with dolphins. After all, Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are extremely common in the waters of Florida! However, I recommend doing your research before swimming with dolphins in the Keys.

One place that I DO recommend is the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key (just north of Marathon). The DRC was founded as a non-profit organization in 1984 and has grown to be a world-renowned research facility.

Today, they maintain their promise that “the health and well being of Dolphin Research Center’s dolphins holds absolute precedence over all other interests. DRC will undertake no program or activity that compromises this basic commitment. ” That is very important!

#12. Swim at the Beautiful Sombrero Beach

A common misconception about the Florida Keys is that there are miles of beautiful white sand beaches. However, this is simply not true!

White sand beaches are actually quite rare in the Keys. There’s only a handful, and one of the best ones is Sombrero Beach in Marathon ! This beach is great for picnics, volleyball, snorkeling, or just relaxing. The park is open daily from 7:30am to dusk and is a great spot to stop on your drive from Miami to Key West!

Note : If you visit Sombrero Beach from April-October, you may get to see loggerhead turtles! During this time, portions of the beach are blocked off to human activities to protect turtle nesting!

#13. Walk or ride along the Seven Mile Bridge

Did you know there are 42 bridges in the Florida Keys? The most famous one is the Seven Mile Bridge (which is actually two bridges next to each other!). The more recent bridge (the one you drive over) connects Knight’s Key to Little Duck Key and is actually seven miles long! You’ll cross this bridge right after leaving Marathon.

The old Seven Mile Bridge, which you can no longer drive over, was built in the early 1900s per direction from Henry Flagler as part of the Florida East Coast Railway’s Key West Extension. The cool part is, there is a 2 mile stretch of this bridge that was recently reconstructed. You can walk, ride bikes, or rollerblade over it!

#14. Explore Bahia Honda State Park

Just south of Marathon right after you cross the Seven Mile Bridge lies Bahia Honda State Park ! Here, you’ll find more sandy beaches (again, a rarity), plus beautiful blue water and an old railway bridge you can walk up to.

It costs $8 per car to enter, and you can also rent kayaks and paddle boards to explore the protected waters around the island. I recommend stopping here to stretch your legs and swim if you skipped Sombrero Beach!

#15. Visit the National Key Deer Refuge

Another unique and fun thing to do on the drive from Miami to Key West is visit the  National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center  on Big Pine Key!! As you start getting further south in the Keys, you may start seeing these little guys on the side of the road. Key deer are the smallest deer species in North America and only live in the Florida Keys, so you won’t be able to see them anywhere else!

The Key Deer Refuge Nature Center on Big Pine Key has some helpful information and a few trails nearby where you may be able to see some of these tiny animals up close and personal! However, you can also see them by driving (slowly) around No Name Key and Big Pine Key.

#16. Scuba Dive a Ship Wreck

Scuba diving is one of the most popular activities in the Florida Keys, and for good reason! Since getting certified in 2020, I’ve been scuba diving in the Keys many times, and I can personally vouch for how incredible it is!

Did you know the Florida Keys are home to 9 different ship wrecks , referred to by some as “The Wreck Trek” ?! These sunken shipwrecks are spread from Key Largo to Key West, so you can really choose to go scuba diving anywhere in the Keys! Below are a list of the wrecks, but you can read more info on the Wreck Trek here!

• Spiegel Grove  – Key Largo
• Duane  – Key Largo
• Benwood  – Key Largo
• Eagle  – Islamorada
• Thunderbolt  – Marathon
• Adolphus Busch Sr.  – Lower Keys
• Cayman Salvager  – Key West
• Joe’s Tug  – Key West
• Vandenberg  – Key West

#17. Snap a Photo with the Southernmost Point Sign

As you continue your journey south, you’ll eventually find yourself in the last, and most famous, Key in the chain – Key West!!!

Make sure to check out my blog post for a full list of things to do in Key West , but for this purpose of this post, here are a few of my favorites!

One of the most popular things to do in Key West is taking a picture with the famous Southernmost Point Buoy! If you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend getting here as early as possible 🙂

#18. Make the Journey to the Dry Tortugas

In my opinion, visiting Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most adventurous thing you can do in the Florida Keys! Why? Because this National Park lies about 70 miles west of Key West in the middle of the ocean!

To get there, you can take  this ferry boat  from Key West, which takes approximately 3 hours. If money isn’t a factor for you, you can also take a private sea plane to the park, which is definitely on my bucket list! 

Within the National Park is  Fort Jefferson , an old military base that was used in the Civil War. The fort was actually never finished, but it is super cool to walk around and learn about the Florida history. Plus, the water around Fort Jefferson is GORGEOUS, and it’s great for sunbathing, snorkeling, etc. 

#19. Watch the sunset at Mallory Square

Another very popular activity in Key West is to watch the sunset at Mallory Square. So popular, in fact, there is a nightly sunset celebration at this square at the end of Key West. Each evening, you’ll find street vendors, performers, and lots of people here as you watch the sun sink into the ocean!

Like most activities in Key West, if you want to beat the crowds (and have a front row seat for the sunset), get there early !

#20. Take a Jet Ski Tour Around the Island

Jet skiing in the Keys is fun no matter which Key you choose! However, it’s extra fun to do in Key West because there is so much to see around the island!

The below tour from GetYourGuide is the perfect option and is pretty reasonably priced. It also includes a stop at a sandbar and a chance to see the Southernmost Point sign from the sea!

#21. Indulge in a Slice (or Two) of Key Lime Pie

Again, you can pretty much do this anywhere in the Keys. However, I saved the topic of eating Key Lime Pie for Key West because they have the most options! One of my favorite places to go is Kermitt’s Key Lime Pie Shoppe , located right outside the harbor on Elizabeth and Greene Street.

At Kermitt’s, you’ll find so much more than pie, including key lime juice, candies, cookies, nuts, and my personal favorite, key lime pie on a stick.

#23. Visit Ernest Hemingway’s Home

Key West has had a lot of famous residents over the years, but the most popular (and most interesting!) might just be Ernest Hemingway. Luckily, there is a whole Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, where you can learn about his life and his work! Admission starts at around $18 for adults, $9 for children.

#24. Go on a Sunset Cruise

Watching the sunset from Mallory Square is great, but my preferred way is to watch from a sunset cruise! You’ll get the chance to sail on a catamaran around the island, listen to live music, and maybe drink a rum punch as the sun dips into the sea.

This is a very popular activity in Key West, so there are many different vendors to choose from! To help you narrow it down, make sure to check out my full guide on the Best Sunset Cruises in Key West.

#25. Go On An Island Adventure Tour

Last but not least, this Island Adventure Tour is a super fun activity to do while in Key West! It includes kayaking through the mangroves and relaxing on a sandbar and is the perfect way to end your trip to the Florida Keys!

Make sure to check out my 3 Day Key West itinerary for even more information on visiting the most famous Florida Key!

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys

For a detailed list of places to stay throughout the Keys, make sure to check out my Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide! In this guide, I provide a breakdown of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Keys, including the best places to stay in each area for different types of travelers!

No matter which hotel you choose, I highly recommend reading reviews on TripAdvisor.com before booking!

Final Thoughts

Thank you so much for reading this Miami to Key West Guide! If you couldn’t tell, the Florida Keys have a special place in my heart, and there are so many incredible activities and great restaurants to choose from in this slice of paradise! I hope this guide helped you in some small way.

Don’t forget to check out my other Florida Keys blog posts to help plan your trip! Key Largo to Key West One Week Itinerary Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys Best Hotels in Islamorada, Florida

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Miami to Key West Drive: 21 Best Stops to Make (with Map!)

By: Author Florida Vacationers

Posted on Published: January 22, 2022  - Last updated: October 3, 2023

Categories Florida Keys

Home » Florida Keys » Miami to Key West Drive: 21 Best Stops to Make (with Map!)

Looking for stops to make on the Miami to Key West drive? You have come to the right place. There are so many things to do from Miami to Key West!

One of the very best road trips we ever took was this route along the stunning Florida Keys. The drive is approximately 160 miles and takes around 4 hours if you do the whole drive in one hit.

This however, would be an awful shame as the famous and picturesque Overseas Highway passes through some of the most interesting and fun fishing villages in the United States!

The drive to the Southernmost point of continental USA (you can practically reach out and touch Cuba from here) was one of the best adventures we have ever had! In terms of prestige the iconic route is comparable only to the Great Ocean Road drive in Australia or the California Highway 1 drive.

Pile your whole family in the car and prepare to make memories that last a lifetime in one of our all time favorite areas of Florida!

Strap your seat belt on while we guide you through the best stops driving to Key West. First up we’ll answer some FAQs about this Florida Keys road trip.

Bring with you: Lonely Planet Miami and the Keys Guide 

21 Best Stops on the Miami to Key West Drive (with map)

Keys’ drive: frequently asked questions.

Which is the Best Airport to Start your road trip? M iami airport to Key West drive

The best airport to fly into to start your Road Trip is Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL).

Despite Miami airport being the most optimal place to fly into to start your road trip, often the most affordable flights land in Fort Lauderdale. We flew from Paris to Fort Lauderdale for around $200.

If you are starting from inside the United States you can either fly using low cost national carriers such as Spirit, Frontier, SouthWest or JetBlue. You can find the cheapest flights available on Skyscanner .

If you are driving from the Northern States you will likely use Route 95 to make your way to Miami.

Things to Know about Hiring a Car for the Florida Keys

If you don’t have your own car, you will need to hire a car to make the trip.

On our drive we had our own car however, we have rented cars many times in the past in Florida.

Car hire in Florida is reasonably affordable. You can get a rental car from Miami for as little as $400 for a week. One of the most popular car options in the Keys is a mustang. Let your hair fly in the wind as you hit the open road!

Gas prices in the Florida Keys can be a little more expensive than the rest of Florida so we would recommend filling up in advance if possible. Expect to pay as much as US$3 per gallon (3.78L) in the Keys.

In addition to the car insurance (you can get this when you hire your car), we always recommend having separate travel insurance. After 5 years of full time travel, the best insurer we have found is World Nomads Insurance .

Best Time to Visit?

As it is a tropical location that is warm and sunny year round, it is always a good time to visit the Florida Keys, especially if you are looking for a break from the harsh winter!

We visited in September and it was a lovely month to visit with very little rain and mild days temperature-wise.

The winter months are the busiest in the Keys and prices are at a premium as snowbirds make their way down from the Northern States in search of warmer temperatures.

• January is the coldest month in the Florida Keys with temperatures between 71 and 77°F (22 to 25°C).
• August is the hottest month in the Florida Keys where temperatures reach as much as 89.4°F  (32°C).

How Far is Key West from Miami?

If you drive continuously, it is 160 miles and takes around 4 hours to get from Key West to Miami.

If you are determined, you could make this drive in a single day. However, we would advise against this as you would miss some of the very best attractions!

How many days should I allow in the itinerary?

Despite the fact that the drive is 160 miles and takes only around 4 hours, we would recommend allocating at least a week to a Florida Keys road trip .

You will want to spend at least a few nights at the major stops along the way including Key Largo and Key West.

Where are the Florida Keys? M ap from Miami to Key West

When going on a road trip, it is always advisable to bring a good map with you. We have made a seperate post with a dedicated Florida Keys map you might like to check out.

Tip: You can download map of Miami to Key West using the google maps app when you are online and then use  it when you are offline as you drive.

Key West Road Trip Stops

Stop 1: the everglades.

Before you make your way to the start of the Florida Keys, we would suggest thinking about including the Everglades National Park in your Florida Keys itinerary.

If you wish to visit the Everglades before you hit the Keys, make a turn south from Florida City. The Everglades is one of our favorite things to do in Florida. We have been several times and will probably go several times in the future.

National Parks in the United States are just the best and like all other National Parks, there is an abundance of cool things to do in the Everglades.

If you just want to do one day in the Everglades, we would suggest doing an airboat tour , visiting Shark Valley where you can bike the Everglades and the Anhinga Trail where you have the best chance of seeing an Alligator on foot. We were very lucky and even saw some baby alligators at the time we visited.

The Gumbo Limbo Trail is also a great place to visit in the middle of the day. Florida is hot all year round so it is nice to find a well shaded hike in the exposed Everglades wetlands.

The Anhinga Trail, Everglades

Stop 2: Key Largo (40 min drive from the Everglades)

The first spot on your Florida Keys road trip is the laid back town of Key Largo.

We didn’t expect to enjoy Key Largo as much as we did. Everyone heads straight down to Key West without giving Key Largo a chance but really I think this is a total mistake.

If you are traveling from Miami make sure you give Key Largo a chance.  It caters so well to all different types of travelers and has some of the absolute best beaches the Florida Keys has to offer.

We loved that you can have a mix of both relaxation and adventure in Key Largo. It is a place you could keep coming year after year and not get bored. We would recommend spending 2 nights in Key Largo. See our detailed post on Key Largo if you want some in depth information on what to do there.

Tip: Make sure you pick up some Key Lime Pie from Mrs Macs while you are in Key Largo and try some Conch (pronounced “Konk”) at The Conch House or one of the other great restaurants in Key Largo . For a yummy and cool experience we would suggest going to the Key Largo fisheries. Here you can watch the local fisherman at work as you enjoy your fresh fish. It also serves yummy key lime pie if you want a great desert.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

This was our absolute favorite place & beach in Key Largo as it has some of the best snorkeling the Florida Keys.

Unlike Key West, which is over-populated with cruise goers, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a bit of an undiscovered hidden gem in Florida.

The State Park has set up in 1963 to preserve Key Largo’s coral reef.

It costs $9 (for 2 people) to enter John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park which is waived if you are camping. Camping will set you back$43 USD a night including tax (highly recommended by the way!) If you want to cover the keys by camping, you can check out our post on the best campgrounds in the Florida Keys .

Inside the State Park are stunning beaches and fun nature trails to enjoy. You can also snorkel right off the beach or alternatively hire a kayak or go on a glass bottom boat tour – the possibilities are endless!

Where to stay in Key Largo?

There are so many fabulous places to stay in Key Largo to suit all budgets and tastes. Click here for all accommodation in Key Largo during your dates.

We would recommend staying at least 2 nights in Key Largo to soak up all this small town has to offer.

If you would like to camp in the area we would highly recommend the Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It is a little expensive for camping @ $43 but it provides a very clean, comfortable and secure place to stay for the night for those who want to be in touch with nature.

If you want a little more comfort, we would recommend at this  out of the world hotel !

There is also a pretty unique hotel whose home is in Key Largo known as the Jules Undersea Lodge . This is a pretty epic place to stay. It is Florida’s only underwater hotel. To stay at this hotel there is a catch, you need to dive to access the hotel. Staying here would truly be a once in a lifetime experience and a talking point among friends.

Driving Stop 3: Islamorada (40 min drive from Key Largo)

Despite Islamorada being a small town, it is in our opinion one of the best places to visit in the Florida Keys due to the abundance of fun activities in the area.

You won’t be driving long from Key Largo to reach Islamorada, only a 40 minutes away drive away. As Islamorada is a little further down the Keys, it has even more of a relaxed vibe than Key Largo.

Like Key Largo it caters well to many different types of travelers. It has snorkeling or diving for adventure seekers and calm, peaceful, beautiful beaches in Islamorada for relaxation.

There are some fabulous things to do in Islamorada . The best activities include the following:

• Anne Beach (Great swimming beach for kids as nice shallow water);
• Founders Park (Costs $8 but worth it for beautiful clear water and white sand!);
• Holiday Isle Beach (Don’t miss the Tico Bar!);
• The Islamorada Library and Park (see the locals at this secret spot!);
• Theater of the seas in Islamorada;
• Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park (learn about fossils);
• History of Diving Museum;
• Eat at some of the best restaurants in Islamorada .

If you are a fan of craft beer, you will love Islamorada as it has some great breweries including the the Florida Keys Brewing Company and The Islamorada Beer Company.

Feed giant Tarpon at Robbie’s 

100% of absolute favourite activity on our road trip of the Florida Keys was feeding the giant tarpon at Robbie’s pier .

These fish are seriously giant – up to 8ft long – so it is a pretty cool sight for fish enthusiasts.

To see the tarpon in action it costs $2.25 per person. If you would like to feed them (note: only for the brave!!) each bucket of fish is $4.00 (5-8 fish per bucket).

Be prepared to get a little injured – the bite feels a bit like sandpaper. Or, you can always watch by the sidelines (as I did!).

Be careful of the other little fish in the water too. The tarpon have no teeth but there are also “little” fish in the water which have razor sharp teeth which will do some damage!

I call this the money shot. Captioned “Surprise” – Tarpon, probably.

Where to stay in Islamorada?

Islamorada has lodging available for all budgets. Click  here  to search accommodation options in Islamorada during your dates.

Here is the places we would recommend depending on your budget:

• Budget  –  La Jolla Resort  (good budget option with beach access)
• Mid Range to Luxury  –  Postcard Inn  (has access to a great beach)
• Luxury – Cheeca Lodge & Spa (also has a really awesome spa!)

Keys Drive Stop 4: Marathon

Marathon is the midway point of the Florida Keys – by this stage, you are half way between Key Largo and Key West

From Marathon, it is only a 1 hour drive onward to Key West.

We actually came through Marathon on our way to Bahia Honda State Park (highly recommended by the way!!) and wanted to check out what activities the mid point of the Florida Keys had to offer!

You can either make an overnight stop in Marathon or keep driving onward to Key West. Regardless, you need to make a stop!

Here are the best  things to do in Marathon FL that you simply cannot miss on a trip to the Florida Keys in South Florida:

• Sombrero Beach (white sand and awesome water!)
• Coco Plum Beach (could skip this if you don’t have time)
• Crane Point Museum & Nature Center (63 acres of native plants, a creek, a history museum)
• Visit the Dolphin Research Center (can interact with a dolphin here)
• Aquarium Encounter
• Curry Hammock State Park

Turtle Hospital

One can simply not make a trip to Marathon without visiting the turtle hospital aka cuteness overload. An unmissable stop in any Miami to Key West drive itinerary.

Families traveling in the Florida Keys often rate this activity as their all time favorite activity in the Florida Keys.

What we love is that it is much more than just seeing turtles although that is always fun! The Turtle Hospital serves to rehabilitate the turtles of the Florida Keys.

This good work justifies the fairly high entry fee of  $25 per person. Included in your ticket is a 90 minute guided where you will get an opportunity to feed the turtles.

This is their rescue mobile.

Cruise along Seven Mile Bridge

To visit our favourite place in the Florida Keys Bahia Honda or even Key West you will have to drive across the iconic Seven Mile Bridge the best part of the overseas highway.

Even if you are not planning to go up as far as these places, we would highly recommend taking a joy drive on the 7 Mile Bridge, it is iconic to the Florida Keys and really beautiful.

The water of the bridge is absolutely stunning and the bridge itself is truly a piece of art.

Get your camera ready but don’t hang it outside your window. It is super windy on this bridge and it you drop it, its gone for good!

Where to stay in Marathon?

Marathon has lodging available for all budgets. Click  here to search accommodation options in Marathon during your dates.

If you like camping, we would recommend camping in the Bahia Honda State Park .

The downside to this is that Florida can get quite hot and sticky at night. If you prefer a little more comfort, we would suggest staying in these vacation rentals and hotels in Marathon to explore the beaches.

• This 2 star  Budget hotel
• This 3 star  Mid Range hotel
• This 4 star  Luxury hotel

Driving Stop 5: Bahia Honda State Park

Practically in Marathon, just a hop, skip and a jump away (over the 7 Mile Bridge) is our favourite place in the Florida Keys – Bahia Honda State Park in Pine Key.

If you are looking for a great (and affordable) place for camping in the Florida Keys at a cost of $43 USD a night including tax for a beach front powered spot!

All sorts of people come to holiday in Bahia Honda – older retired, families with kids and even honeymooners – these people do have two things in common though: 1. They love the great outdoors and 2. They are beach enthusiasts.

The Florida Keys is not exactly known for insane beaches but Bahia Honda is an exception to the rule.

It costs $4.50 pp to enter the park but it is well worth it. If you decide to camp in the park ($43 USD per site per night) this fee is waved.

Bahia Honda has 3 amazing beaches – Caloosa Beach, Loggerhead Beach and Sandspur Beach. Other activities you can enjoy in and near Bahia Honda include:

• Kayaking: Kayaking is a really fun way to explore Bahia Honda. It is possible to rent your own kayak or go on a tour.
• Biking: You will need to bring you own bike for this. If that is a possibility for you, it is fun to ride the length of Bahia Honda (3.5 miles)
• Snorkeling: As discussed above, the off beach snorkeling in Bahia Honda is the best we experienced in the Florida Keys.
• Fishing: For fishing lovers out there, some of the best Tarpon fishing in the Florida Keys is found in Bahia Honda. You do need a saltwater fishing license to go however. And, if you are thinking of picking up some delicious Conch (the Key’s specialty) note that the collection of Queen conchs are prohibited.
• National Key Deer Refuge – they have the cutest mini deer here ever!
• The Blue Hole   – If you skip the everglades you can come see a gator here.

Old Bahia Honda Bridge Walk

While in Bahia Honda don’t miss the  Old Bahia Honda Bridge Walk.

This walk is pretty awesome as it gives you an incredible view from one of the highest points in the Florida Keys. It is an easy 0.4 mile walk (there are some steps required) with a fabulous view reward at the end.

You can find the entry easily from the car park at Caloosa Beach. The bridge has crumbled in the middle so you can hike until you find a barrier in the middle of the bridge from where you can go no further.

Where to stay in Bahia Honda?

If you want the best proximity to Bahia Honda State Park we would highly recommend camping inside the Bahia Honda State Park. If you want more info we can refer you to our Bahia Honda camping guide .

It does get quite hot and sticky camping, especially in Florida so if you would prefer a little more comfort on your vacation we would suggest the following options.

• This 2 star Budget hotel
• This 3 star Mid Range hotel
• This 4 star Luxury hotel

Final Stop: Key West

When you think of the Florida Keys, you probably think of Key West.

Key West is home to famous writer Hemingway and is a fan favourite due to the amazing Conchs architecture, wacky vibe and abundance of fun things to do. Despite the fact it is very touristy, with cruise shops docking at Key West virtually every day we really enjoyed Key West!

The Florida Keys are a beautiful but notoriously expensive place to holiday. Accommodation will cost you $150 USD upwards in Key West for basic lodging. Food and activities are also costly.

While on a very expensive holiday it is nice to break up the expensive with a few free activities. Luckily, Key West has many of these. You can see our guide to free things to do in Key West for those.

Other things not to miss include:

• Sunset celebration at Mallory Square. This hotel is in the PERFECT location for Mallory Square festivities;
• Key West Lighthouse;
• Butterfly and Nature Conservatory;
• Best Key West beaches including Dogs Beach, South Beach, Smathers Beach, Higgs Beach, Rest Beach,
• Go marine watching at The Eco Discovery Center
• Take a picture at the Southernmost Point of the Continental US
• Key West Wildlife Center
• Key West Cemetery
• Dine at the best restaurants in Key West
• The Oldest House in Key West
• West Martello Tower
• Go to a nude beach in Florida . The only one in the Florida Keys is Boca Chica Beach.

I will point out it is always fun to go on a Rum Distillery Tour while in Key West. A good one is the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Tour. The reason why we would recommend this is that it provides flavors very unique to the Key West area including Florida sugar cane, vanilla creme brûlée and Key lime.

Don’t also forget to take a quick picture with the Mile 0 Marker. Like the Southern most point, there is a must do iconic picture to take while you are in Key West. There is not usually a long line at the mile 0 marker either which is always a win!!

Ernest Hemingway House

The number 1 attraction in Key West and the most iconic thing to do in Key West is to take a visit to the Ernest Hemingway house, one of America’s most respected authors. One of the best stops to make on your Miami to Key West drive!

You won’t want to visit Key West with at least not visiting Ernest Hemingway’s house The famous writer lived in Key West from 1931 to 1939.

Tourists come from all over the world to visit the house in which he lived including touring the rooms and gardens. There is usually a line out the door to get in.

The house is super easy to access as it is located within the very heart of Key West. There is also something a little quirky about the Hemingway house. There are over 40 cats that live at the house. In Key West style, they are a little strange and some have six toes due to a polydactyl gene in their DNA

These cats are descendants of Ernest Hemingway white six-toed cat called Snow White which he was given by a ship’s captain. Ernest named his cats after famous people so the Hemingway house follow that same tradition. The house is almost like a mini cat cafe!

It costs $14 USD to tour Hemingway house.

Harry S. Truman Little White House

Another must do stop for history lovers out there is the Harry S. Truman Little White House.

If you are not from the US (of even if you are) this a great place to learn more about US history.

Former president Harry S. Truman used this cute little building as the winter White House in 1946. Since then other presidents have made use of it too for one purpose or another including Kennedy and Clinton.

It costs $19 USD to enter the Harry S. Truman Little White House. Sadly there is not very good parking available here.

Duval Street

Duval Street is the most iconic street in Key West so you absolutely cannot visit Key West without going for a walk along Duval Street.

It is free to wander but not to drink. Of course, Key West is a party town and one of the most iconic things to do is to bar hop Duval Street. Many people come to Key West just to party.

Whether you want to join in the party or just people watch, it doesn’t really matter – you will love Duval Street nonetheless.

Put these iconic Key West bars into your bar hopping list:

• Sloppy Joes – The Most famous bar in Key West and also Ernest Hemingway’s favourite.
• Schooner Wharf   – One of the most popular bars in the area
• Aqua ,  La Te Da , Bourbon St. Bar – Best places for a drag show (huge in Key West). Don’t knock it until you have met someone who does Drag in real life.

Tip:  Doing a road trip to the Florida Keys is amazing but in all honestly, it is not always easy to park in Key West. What we would recommend is finding a centrally located hotel (see below for our recommendations) parking your car and taking the free duval bus around. The bus is free and runs every 15 minutes, 10am to midnight. You can find more information and the bus stops here .

Where to stay in Key West?

The Florida Keys is an expensive place to travel and Key West is possibly the most expensive place in the Keys. Nevertheless, it is a place that just has to be done at least once.

Here are the hotels we would recommend staying in Key West depending on your budget:

• Best 3 Star Hotel in Key West
• Best 4 Star Hotel in Key West
• Best 5 Star Hotel in Key West

If you are traveling as a couple, here are our favorite places to stay as a couple in Key West .

We wouldn’t really recommend camping in Key West as it is $100 USD +. It is more worthwhile to pay for a hotel in Key West. Key West is a place you come for a bit of luxury, not to camp.

Key West to Miami Drive

On your way back from Key West to Miami , you will need to make at least a one night stop on your way back.

We would suggest either staying at Marathon or Islamorada on your way back to Miami as they are towns approximately half way along the Florida Keys.

Traveling in the Sunshine State?

We hope you enjoyed the drive along the beautiful Florida Keys as much as we did and found this guide useful for some awesome places to stop along the way!

If you have any questions, or have something to add, we always love to hear from you so leave a comment below!

Florida Vacationers is the #1 place to find everything exciting to do in the Sunshine State from the incredible beaches to the beautiful springs, campgrounds and road trips - we are constantly on the lookout for hidden gems and secret spots! Bookmark this blog as your go to place for all things Florida related. We are so happy to have you as part of our Florida Vacationers community!

Sharing is caring!

Robert Major

Wednesday 2nd of March 2022

Very good article on drive from Miami to Key West. Ws have made the drive two times and loved it now planing to make another drive down . There’s so much history in the Keys Thanks for providing a great story on the Keys

Florida Vacationers

Hi Robert! So glad you enjoyed the read :) I know, we want to make the drive again ASAP too. Such a great place.

Gregory jeanlouis

Thursday 10th of February 2022

Love to visit very soon and look forward to

Hi Gregory, It is such a fun trip, we wish you the best :)

The Ultimate Miami To Key West Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 3, 2024

Plan the perfect Miami to Key West road trip that includes incredible national parks, Florida wildlife and the best of the Florida Keys!

Miami and Key West are two of the hottest places to travel to. Raging with parties on one end and thriving with long stretches of sandy beaches and blue waters on the other, these two cities are well-known as the top vacation spots in Florida , full of fun and sun to soak in. 

Combining these alluring travel destinations, this Miami to Key West road trip adds flavor and spice with stops at unique and sought-out attractions, such as Everglades National Park and National Key Deer Refuge.

After experiencing Miami ’s intoxicating Cuban culture, world-class art galleries, upscale shopping, and boisterous party beaches, it’s time to hit the road and drive along the eye-catching seven-mile bridge that helps to connect the upper and middle Keys to the lower Keys.

You’ll end up in the iconic city of Key West , where you can easily spend a few days soaking in all the natural beauty and culture here.

Get ready for the time of your life on an unrivaled adventure heading to the stunning island city of Key West, where the water strikes you with its beauty and the Key lime pie is the freshest you’ve ever tasted!

Table of Contents

Where to Start Your Miami to Key West Road Trip

The best time of year for the miami to key west drive, how long is this road trip, coral castle snack bar & coffee shop, biscayne national park, everglades national park, john pennekamp coral reef state park, key largo, history of diving museum, florida keys brewing company , indian key historic state park, lignumvitae key botanical state park, dolphin research center, curry hammock state park , florida keys aquarium encounters, turtle hospital , bahia honda state park , national key deer refuge, planning your miami to key west road trip.

Our Miami to the Florida Keys road trip itinerary perfectly curates the top points of interest along the way for a more fluid drive without unnecessary detours.

We save you the hassle of finding what attractions to see along the way so that you can have the Miami to Key West road trip of a lifetime.

Check out our 3 days in Miami itinerary so you know what to do in the city before you hit the road!

We’re starting this Miami to Key West road trip in Miami before heading through some national parks and continuing along the south coast for a few hours or days while you soak in all the attractions.

Then, as you travel along the famous Seven Mile Bridge, you’ll pass the Upper Florida Keys and continue to the Middle and Lower Keys. You’ll pass various mile markers on your way down to Key West, which can be helpful for keeping track of your travels.

If you don’t have your own car, be sure to rent one! It’s the best way to do this road trip, as tours and public transport don’t allow you the freedom and flexibility to explore all the cool stops.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Spring is the best time of year to head out on a Miami to Key West drive. Away from peak tourist season, you can find better travel accommodation pricing while avoiding large crowds for the best Key West road trip.

Alternatively, fall is also a great time as the weather cools and summer crowds subside. If you’re planning to travel to South Florida during fall, keep in mind that hurricane season stretches until the end of November.

Summer can be hot and busy. And during the milder winter months, you can expect a lot of “snowbirds” to take up much of the accommodations.

Without stops, the Miami to Key West drive time is a little under three and a half hours. With these recommended stops for this road trip, we recommend taking a few days to experience these unique attractions.

This southern Florida road trip is entirely customizable, so if you’re running short on time, you can easily skip a stop or two to head straight to the next one.

You can fly directly into Key West International Airport, but a road trip to Key West is much more rewarding because there is so much to see and do on the way!

Read Next: Be sure to read our post on all of the best day trips from Miami .

Miami to Key West Road Trip Itinerary

The famous Florida city of Miami exudes a rich Cuban influence paired with its long stretches of beaches. Spring breakers flock to Miami Beach to party the vacation away on the sandy shores of Miami’s shoreline. 

The nightlife in Miami is notorious for its vibrant and boisterous nature, hosting top performers such as Nicki Minaj, Skrillex and Drake.

Celebrities flock to Miami to party the day and night away alongside everyone else, having welcomed big names like Leonardo di Caprio, George Clooney, and Kim Kardashian, so don’t be surprised if you see one of your favorite celebrities while in Miami! 

Though its nightlife is notorious, Miami is more than parties and beaches. The city is rich with activities that please various tastes.

For example, the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is a National Historic Landmark that dates back to its foundation in 1916. You can also explore the Cuban neighborhood of Little Havana, or tour various art museums.

Other top things to do in Miami:

• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
• Wynwood Walls
• Bayside Marketplace
• Bayfront Park
• South Beach

Find even more of the best things to do in Miami here .

A unique stop along this drive from Miami to Key West, Coral Castle Snack Bar & Coffee Shop features furniture and items constructed from coral rock. Walking through the grounds, visitors will find a piece of coral rock shaped into the form of the state of Florida.

There’s also a sundial and dual-chambered well. But, more eye-catching than these pieces is what the shop is named after – the massive coral rock castle!

The castle weighs 1,100 tons. It was finished in 1941 by one dedicated man who immigrated to the United States from Latvia.

The man, Edward Leedskalnin, is said to have only used simple tools like wedges and chisels to construct the impressive structure and the many others made from coral rock open for viewing on the grounds.  

While observing these outstanding pieces of work by Leedskahlnin, visitors can stop by Coral Castle Snack Bar & Coffee Shop for a refresher. The bar and coffee shop sells handhelds like tuna salad sandwiches, hamburgers, and Caprese sandwiches with views of the coral rock creations to savor while you eat. 

Other top things to do in the area:

• Knaus Berry Farm
• Homestead Miami Speedway
• Fruit & Spice Park
• R. F. Orchids
• Robert Is Here

Protecting nature and history, Biscayne National Park is a jewel that should not be overlooked on a Miami to Key West road trip!

The largest marine sanctuary in the National Parks System, the park preserves 10,000 years of human history, from the time of prehistoric tribes to that of shipwrecks of explorers scouring for land and gold.

The park is a sight for sore eyes with its shocking blue waters, prosperous coral reefs, and greenery-rich islands. 

People travel from all over to dip in Biscayne National Park’s waters, where its marine life ecosystems are flooded with vibrant tropical fish and coral reefs.

From fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming, it’s common to find people hitting the water in Biscayne National Park for a fresh day out in the water for chances to see manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles! 

Within the grounds of Biscayne National Park is the Boca Chita Key. On the key is the iconic historic lighthouse that many people launch off from to go snorkeling in the clear blue waters of the park.

Offshore from Boca Chita Key is the third largest coral reef in the world, with exotic marine species like parrot fish and blue neon gobies swimming about. 

• Crandon Park
• Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
• Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
• Deering Estate

For many reasons, the Everglades National Park is one of the most well-known parks in the United States, which of course, makes it an unquestionable stop on our Miami to Key West drive.

It is the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi River and the largest tropical wilderness in the nation.

It protects endangered species such as the American crocodile, the Florida panther, and the manatee. It is also the only place on the planet where crocodiles and alligators coexist peacefully.

As one of the largest wetlands on the planet, the Everglades National Park surprisingly used to be bigger. It used to provide drinking water for over 7 million Floridians.

The park welcomes visitors to enjoy its lush environment with outdoor recreational opportunities like hiking, fishing, bird watching, and camping. Like this airboat tour and wildlife show, boat tours are an exceptional opportunity to travel to Everglades National Park by water to see crocodiles, alligators, and turtles.

This tour, in particular, treats tourgoers with specialty alligator sausage and alligator tail and a show of alligator wrestling techniques used by Native Americans. 

• Big Cypress National Preserve
• Miccosukee Indian Village
• Museum of The Everglades

Exploring more of Southern Florida? Check out our list of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale !

After touring the Everglades, drive along the Overseas Highway until you leave the mainland and enter Key Largo . Here you’ll find your next stop on the route to Key West!

The country’s first undersea park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , was founded in Key Largo in 1963, adjacent to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. A highly recommended stop along the Miami to Key West drive, this park in Key Largo is a place of history and beauty.

Part of the National Register of Historic Places, the park’s creation was designed to protect the only living coral reef in the United States.

The park’s namesake is dedicated to Miami newspaper editor John D. Pennekamp. He contributed significantly to the founding of the Everglades National Park and the up-and-coming John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

This top Key Largo attraction is home to mangrove swamps, tropical hammocks, shore birds, damselfish, barracudas, anemones, and many more marine life species. Key Largo is the dive capital of the world, so do your best to spend some time underwater!

There are recreational opportunities for park visitors to see these vibrant species up close and personal by joining a glass-bottom boat tour, kayaking , canoeing, scuba diving, or snorkeling. Either way, opportunity awaits for all to explore the underwater rainforest of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park!

Other top things to do in the Key Largo area:

• Rowell’s Waterfront Park
• Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
• Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Committed to sharing the stories and impact of diving, the History of Diving Museum showcases its collections and interpretations of artifacts related to diving. It is a unique gem to stop at on the Overseas Highway on your Miami to Key West drive.

The museum shares the history of underwater exploration that has influenced history worldwide. The museum has a special dedication to the local diving history of the Florida Keys and South Florida. 

The History of Diving Museum’s exhibits feature photographs, antiques, documents, oral history, books, and many more intriguing items detailing the extensive history and foundation of diving.

This includes subjects such as freediving, treasure hunting, and marine biology that utilize diving to break through the water barrier to reach the underwater world’s treasure trove. 

• Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar
• Keys History & Discovery Center
• Theater of The Sea
• Islamorada Brewery & Distillery

Want to explore more of the Sunshine State by car? Here is a 2 Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary that might inspire you!

A trendy microbrewery in the Upper Keys, the Florida Keys Brewing Company exudes an alluring tropical ambiance while serving fresh local brews. It’s one of the best places to check out on the Overseas Highway as you head to Key West.

The brewery is a refreshing taste of the local vibes and brews in the Morada Ways Arts and Cultural District.

Tours are available of the brewery, along with tastings of a flight of Florida Keys Brewing Company’s brews made and canned 100% locally. Grab a growler of your favorite Florida Keys Brewing Company beer or go big and buy a keg! 

Settle down with a fresh brew in the Beer Garden. Lay back, relax in one of the chairs, and play a game of giant Jenga or cornhole. And make sure to check the schedule as Florida Keys Brewing Company hosts live music that can be enjoyed in the Beer Garden.

The Indian Key Historic State Park is an island once an integrated town in the 19th century. The island was the first county seat for Dade County in 1836.

Today, the Indian Key is an abandoned ghost town with only remaining leftover ruins and structures. When traveling from Miami to Key West, this park is a hot attraction to hit up.

During its active days, Indian Key was where a running business salvaged cargo from shipwrecks that banked in the Florida Keys.

In 1840, Indian Key was attacked by Indians, and many of the town’s structures were destroyed except one building. This ended up in the island being abandoned. 

At present, Indian Key Historic State Park is a fun outdoor recreational spot people love to hang out. Anglers test their luck for local catches like Spanish mackerel, tarpon, and bonefish.

The island is accessible by kayak or canoe, with opportunities to see sea turtles and dolphins. Once you reach the island, picnicking, hiking, and snorkeling are all other popular activities to consider while visiting Indian Key Historic State Park.

Then head back to the Overseas Highway and continue driving south on your Florida Keys road trip!

• Robbie’s of Islamorada
• Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory
• Crane Point Hammock
• Islamorada Wine Co.

Accessed exclusively by tour or private boat, Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is nestled on Lignumvitae Key.

The tropical island is flooded with thriving virgin tropical hardwood hammocks as turquoise waters gently crash against its shores. It is a captivating stop on a road trip from Miami to Key West.

The virgin tropical hardwood hammock was common in most of the Upper Keys of Florida, but that is no longer the case. Now, people can view these plants in Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, where they prosper and grow widely. 

The backstory of Lignumvitae Key lands with a Miami chemist, William J. Matheson. The chemist purchased the island in 1919, establishing a caretaker’s home, a windmill for electricity, and a cistern for rainwater.

Today, the island acts as Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, with self-guided tours available to explore the secluded island. 

Read next: 24 Exciting Things To Do In Orlando, Florida

A nonprofit education and research facility in Key West, the Dolphin Research Center’s mission is to protect, rehabilitate, and research marine mammals. 

With a prime focus on dolphins, the Dolphin Research Center also rescues and rehabilitates other marine animals, including whales and sea lions. The center uses its experiences in rescuing these unique species to assist marine mammals in distress better.

The Dolphin Research Center’s dedication has extended to the licensed approval of the Federal Government needed for the center’s go-ahead to assist endangered manatees in need of help. 

Admission to the Dolphin Research Center allows visitors to see these marine mammals up close and personal. There’s also a fun chance to swim in a safe and educational environment with the dolphins.

• Keys Cable Park
• Keys Fisheries
• Cabana Club

The largest undeveloped piece of land between Big Pine Key and Key Largo, Curry Hammock State Park , is a magnificent sight.

Curry Hammock State Park’s sanctuary is home to many avian species, native and migratory, like the peregrine falcon. Finding solace in the warmth of the park is a frequent activity for locals and tourists alike in this little tropical paradise. 

Kiteboarders come on windy days to show off their skills, while kayakers and canoers adventure the waters on calmer days.

Curry Hammock State Park has a campground for visitors to stay. Either way, visitors can savor easy access to its swimming and paddle through the beautiful waters and scenic hiking trails on land. 

Other top things to do in this area of Key West:

• Sombrero Beach
• Coco Plum Beach

Another excellent stop on the drive from Miami to Key West is the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters , which features unique exhibits in an educational environment designed to inspire and teach others about the importance of conservation. 

With admission to Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, visitors can add on one encounter. There are three popular encounters many visitors choose from.

During the Big Shark Bay Encounter, visitors can feed and interact with adult nurse sharks with a chance to assist a marine biologist in a shark training session! 

On the Stingray Cove Encounter, visitors can immerse themselves in the water alongside friendly stingrays and hand feed these water gliders.

The Coral Reef Snorkel Encounter is one of the most popular, where visitors can snorkel or dive in a coral reef tank alongside sharks, fish, and stingrays. 

• Island Fish Company
• Curly’s Coffee & Marina
• Marathon Lady Party Boats

Planning to explore the north of Florida? Check out our list of things to do in St. Augustine .

Just 10 minutes down the Overseas Highway toward Key West is a sea turtle rehabilitation and rescue center that has done wonders in its commitment to rehabilitating injured turtles. Once the Turtle Hospita l rehabs the injured sea turtles, they are returned to their natural habitat. 

The Turtle Hospital uses outreach programs and local school visitations to educate others on the importance of sea turtle conservation.

The hospital researches how to protect turtles better and works toward bettering environmental legislation to protect turtles from further environmental safety concerns. 

Guided educational tours of the Turtle Hospital are provided to learn more about the facilities and rehabilitation area for turtles. A presentation is given on turtles before visitors get a behind-the-scenes look at where the sea turtles are rehabilitated. 

• TJ’s Tiki Bar

A must-stop along this Florida Keys road trip, Bahia Honda State Park is located on Bahia Honda, an island in the lower Florida Keys.

The park is a top-rated attraction when driving from Miami to Key West. On weekends and holidays, arriving early is highly recommended, as the park will close when maximum capacity is reached. 

Surrounded by the iconic clear blue waters and sandy beaches of the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is a paradise of breathtaking sunsets, salty breezes, and sun-touched kisses. 

The old railroad bridge in the park was the act of Henry Flagler, who made it his mission to bring the railroad to the Florida Keys.

The mission was a success until a hurricane eventually destroyed the railroad. It then served as an overseas highway but now stands as an iconic landmark, especially the old seven-mile bridge that stretches out stubbornly across the waters next to the newer seven-mile bridge.

From lazing in the sun at Sandspur Beach to swimming in the shocking blue waters and trying water sports, Bahia Honda State Park is a stop worth taking on this road trip from Miami to Key West. 

• Calusa Beach & Loggerhead Beach
• Sandspur Beach
• Little Duck Key

Endemic to the lower Florida Keys, the Key deer are an endangered subspecies of white-tailed deer. The National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key protects this endangered species as a national interest of preservation. 

The refuge is a sanctuary for more than the rare and endangered Key deer. Here you can find mangrove forests, tropical hardwood hammocks, pine rockland forests, salt marsh wetlands, and freshwater wetlands. Within this refuge are over 20 threatened and endangered animal and plant species. 

Guests are welcome to visit the refuge on their Florida Keys road trip to experience the beauty of these rare species and habitats.

However, we recommend first stopping at the Nature Center for a tour through educational exhibits and other features, including a mangrove aquarium and a Key deer story exhibit.

• Big Pine Key Flea Market
• Big Pine Key Park
• Artists In Paradise Gallery
• Grimal Grove

You’re almost in Key West! Here is our list of the 20 best things to do when you get there.

You’re at the end of your epic Florida Keys drive! The home of the world’s third-largest barrier coral reef, Key West , is full of notoriety, natural beauty, and the best Key lime pie ever tasted.

To visit Key West is to be welcomed by rejuvenation and creativity. For years, writers and artists have flocked to Key West for inspiration—some big names, including Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, and Tennesse Williams. 

The lowest record temperature in Key West is 41°F, recorded in 1981. This feature, of course, is a sought-out aspect of many wishing to escape the harsh winter months in colder areas. It’s also why Key West is a perfect year-round paradise to visit.

On this dolphin-watching and snorkeling eco-cruise tour , you can watch bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and snorkel in the striking blue waters for an underwater adventure.

Also while visiting Key West , stop by the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy to snap a photo at the bottom of the continental United States!

Nature lovers can also go snorkeling in the stunning Dry Tortugas National Park, and those looking for a bit of culture and shop and sightsee on Duval Street.

There are so many incredible things to do in Key West, so enjoy your time here!

• Dry Tortugas National Park
• Loggerhead Key Lighthouse
• Duval Street
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
• The Hemingway Home & Museum
• Southernmost Point Buoy
• Key West Lighthouse

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The Ultimate Miami To Key West Road Trip Itinerary (+Map!)

September 18, 2023 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking to plan the ultimate Miami to Key West road trip? Then you’ve come to the right place! I have been exploring Florida for 30 years, and I have tried a lot of things in my home state! So, I’m here to take the guesswork out of planning your Miami to Key West drive.

I’ll be giving you only the best suggestions in the keys. And all of them I have personally tried! So that means you’ll find the things you must see during your Florida Keys roundtrip.

I haven’t put any lackluster stops on this road trip. Every stop is worth it and you’re sure to have a ton of fun exploring the Florida Keys. Which is one of my favorite areas in Florida to explore.

On this itinerary, you’ll have all the information you need. From the mile marker of each location, where to stay on each Key, the best restaurants on each Key, and so much more. There is a reason this is one of the best road trips in the USA!

Literally, all the guesswork has been taken out of the planning for your next Florida Keys road trip. Which means you’ll just be able to hit the road and relax! So, let’s take a look at the ultimate itinerary for your Miami to Key West road trip!

Distance From Miami To Key West

Typically, the distance from Miami to Key West is just over 3 hours, and there are 165 miles between Miami and Key West. But that’s if you’re driving straight through. The directions from Miami to Key West are pretty straightforward and easy to follow as you head south to Key West one one of the greatest East Coast road trips.

When you’re planning on driving to Key West, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore everything you want to see. You can also stop at some of the stops on the way down to Key West, and then the rest on the way back up to Miami. It’s just up to you, and how much time you have to explore!

Miami To Key West Drive Map

When you’re planning your trip, I highly suggest downloading a map of Miami to Key West on your phone. It’s a great way to plan out all your stops ahead of time and get a good idea of where everything is that you want to stop and see.

Generally, the cell service is pretty good in this area, but there can be spots where your service isn’t great. So if you have a map already downloaded, you’ll still be good to go if you’re service is a little spotty while you’re on the road.

Best Stops On The Drive From Miami To Key West

You can absolutely do this road trip in a day, with all of the stops. But it will be a fairly long day if you decide to do that. If you want to hit all of these stops, I suggest planning a day or two for your Florida Keys road trip.

That will give you plenty of time to explore everything you want and not feel rushed. But of course, you can shorten or extend the road trip to fit your needs and interests! I just wanted to walk you through what I would personally suggest as your Miami to Key West Drive highlights!

Start Your Key West Road Trip In Miami

You’ll be starting your Key West road trip in Miami! I do recommend renting a car in Miami and it is often quite affordable to do so from the Airport.

There are tons and tons of things to do in Miami because it’s a pretty popular tourist destination in Florida. Miami is a city that truly has something for everyone and every interest. For foodies, I suggest the Little Havana Walking Food Tour complete with tastings! You’ll get to explore one of the most popular areas of Miami and get to sample the unique Cuban food scene in the city.

Another great option while you’re in Miami is the Biscayne Bay Millionaire Row Sightseeing Cruise . The sightseeing cruise takes you on a tour of Biscayne Bay where you’ll find massive mansions that are definitely a sight to see. It’s a popular thing to do when you’re in Miami, especially if you enjoy checking out unique architecture.

Of course, don’t forget to explore the famous Miami Beach and South Beach during your stay.

Book your Little Havana Walking Food Tour Here: Getyourguide.com

Book your Biscayne Bay Millionaire Row Sightseeing Cruise Here: Getyourguide.com

Coral Castle

Just outside of Miami, you’ll find your next stop on the road trip to Key West – the Coral Castle. The Coral Castle is in Miami-Dade County, in the town of Homestead. This is definitely a unique stop while you’re driving from Miami to Key West. Coral Castle was built by Ed Leedsklanin, a Latvian immigrant, from 1923 to 1951. He spent 28 years building the castle, but no one really knows what his motivation was.

Today, you can visit the castle, which has been turned into a museum. It is open Thursday through Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. There is an admissions fee, which helps with castle upkeep and enables it to be open for visitors. If you want to visit this fun road trip stop, make sure you plan to visit when they are open. You definitely don’t want to miss it!

Florida Everglades National Park

From Coral Castle, I suggest heading to the Florida Everglades. It’s definitely a Florida bucket list thing to do. The main entrance for the Everglades is also in Homestead, FL. You’ll find it just off of US 1, on Palm Drive. Once you turn onto Palm Drive, it’ll be very easy to find the entrance to park, as there are a ton of signs. It’s honestly super easy to find! When you’re in the Everglades, there are a ton of things to do.

Easily one of the most popular attractions is the Everglades National Park Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show . Its a short 1 hour tour, so it doesn’t take a ton of time to stop here on your road trip. But you’ll probably want to spend more than 1 hour exploring the park because it’s so cool.

If you’re really planning to take your time on your way to Key West consider doing an Everglades Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour . It’s a three-hour kayak tour, and it’s a great way to see the park.

Book your Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show Here: Getyourguide.com

Book your Everglades Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour Here: Getyourguide.com

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

The next stop is the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which is also off of US 1, on CR 905 North. This unique wildlife refuge was established in 1980 to protect the natural habitat of native several species in this area of Florida. This can also be done as an easy day trip from Miami.

In particular, they rely on the tropical hardwood hammock, the mangrove forest, and the salt marshes in the area. There are currently eight species protected there, like the Key Largo woodrat, Key Largo cotton mouse, and the Keys tree cactus.

In general, the lands are closed to visitors. This is mainly to protect the habitat of the wildlife that live there. Especially because a lot of them are small critters you don’t always see before you step on them! But you can still visit! They have a small visitors center that has a native butterfly garden, an informational kiosk, and knowledgeable staff members who can answer all of your burning crocodile questions!

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Back on US 1, at mile marker 102.5, you’ll find your next stop, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This is another super cool stop while you’re driving the Florida Keys. That’s because it was the first underwater park in the US! It’s a beautiful state park full of unique activities, like kayaking in the mangroves.

However, the big draw to this Florida state park is actually found underwater. There are beautiful coral reefs, an underwater sculpture, and tons of sea life. In fact, you can snorkel in the water and the park and see everything. In the visitors center, there is a 30,000-gallon saltwater tank that has a lot of the same sea life. So if you don’t want to go snorkeling, you can still see the area’s natural sea life in the tank!

Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen

Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen is an absolutely incredible restaurant in Key Largo. You’ll find it on Overseas Highway and it’s open Monday through Friday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s a local favorite, and over the years, it’s become a world-famous restaurant. If there’s one thing you skip on this Florida Keys itinerary, don’t let it be this!

I promise you won’t regret stopping for a bite to eat here. On their menu, you’ll find tons of Florida soul food classics. Like fish and grits, crab cakes benedict, conch chowder, Florida lobster, and tons more. You’ll also be able to try more unique Florida dishes like alligator tenders and Key West shrimp on rice.

This is also home to some of the best key lime pies I have ever tried. Don’t miss it!

Dive Spiegel Grove Shipwreck

The next stop is the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck, which is 6 miles off-shore at mile marker 102. This is definitely one of the itinerary stops that won’t be for everyone. Especially because it may be a bit tricky if you’re driving from Miami to Key West by car and you don’t have your diving gear with you!

But, if you are a fan of diving and have your gear, then this is one of the top diving spots in the Florida Keys. It’s super popular thanks to the purposefully sunk navy ship. It’s absolutely massive and it’s created an artificial reef for the local sea life. The combination of the massive ship and the abundance sea life makes it a popular spot for scuba divers.

Where to Stay In Key Largo

The Hampton Inn Key Largo for beach-front views right off of the Overseas Highway.

The Waterside Suites and Marina is perfect if you’re traveling with family or a group, thanks to their two-story houses.

Or the Bayside Inn Key Largo if you want to book a tour with their Key Diver’s Snorkel Tour company for some snorkeling adventures.

Key Largo is also home to one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Florida in case you want to have a luxury getaway!

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

If you’ve stayed the night in Key Largo, then your first stop of the day will be the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park. It is located at mile marker 85. The state park is located on Islamorada, a popular island in the Florida Keys to explore. The big draw of this state park is the Key Largo limestone, which is actually fossilized coral.

When you are at the park, you can visit the 8-foot-high quarry walls, which are full of fossils. It’s a cool way to learn about the history of the ancient fossils that used to actually live in the area. One thing to keep in mind is that the park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Morada Way Arts District

One of my favorite stops in Islamorada is the Morada Way Arts District. It’s an arts non-profit located in the heart of Islamorada, with proceeds going to support art in the Florida Keys! Every month they host an art walk, typically on the third weekend of the month. There you’ll get to see tons of artwork from local artists and be able to support them by purchasing pieces.

If you can’t make it to one of their monthly art walks, don’t worry. The area is full of studios owned and operated by local artists. They all have different opening times and days, but when you visit there will be plenty of studios open for you to explore. If you want to get a souvenir from your Florida Keys itinerary, this is a great place to find one!

Feed Tarpon At Robbie’s Waterfront

After visiting the Morada Way Arts District, head to Robbie’s Waterfront at mile marker 77. There, you’ll be able to feed the tarpon. For those who might not know, tarpons are large fish native to the Atlantic Ocean and you’ll typically find tons of them around the keys. At Robbie’s Waterfront, you’ll be able to bucket of ‘fish food’ to feed the tarpon.

Be careful though, they are hungry fish who will literally jump 5 feet out of the air to get their food. Standing on the dock along the water, you can hold up a fish and watch the tarpon jump out of the water to grab it from your hand.

There are also TONS of pelicans which I thought was really cool to be up close.

It’s a lot of fun and a super unique stop during any Key West itinerary

Where To Stay On Islamorada

For a tranquil luxury beachfront experience, check out the Islander Resort .

Another excellent resort, right on the beach, is the Lime Tree Bay Resort with its own private beach.

Or you can stay at the Cheeca Lodge & Spa for a luxurious getaway on 26 acres of lush gardens with its own private beach.

The Dolphin Research Center

At mile marker 59, you’ll find the Dolphin Research Center. The research center was originally founded in 1984. It is the permanent home for dolphins and California sea lions who can not be rehabilitated and released back into the wild after they’ve been injured. All animals that call the center home have been rescued and nursed back to health.

You can visit the Dolphin Research Center and learn more about the work they do there. They have seasonal visiting hours, so make sure you check ahead of time to see when they are open. You’ll also need to book your tour ahead of time! So keep all of that in mind and plan ahead before you visit.

Snorkel The Sombrero Key Light

This is another stop on the road trip from Miami to Key West that might not be for everyone. But if you enjoy snorkeling, you’ll definitely want to stop at the Sombrero Key Light, on Marathon Key. There are a few different tour companies that offer snorkeling packages, so you don’t have to bring your own equipment!

What makes Sombrero Key Light a must-stop snorkeling spot? It’s one of the largest, and easily most spectacular, barrier reefs on the planet. Yes, the planet! Offshore, you can snorkel at the Sombrero Key Light, which is a huge lighthouse. You’ll need to ride a boat to get there, which is why using a tour company is a great way to snorkel in the area.

The Turtle Hospital

The Turtle Hospital is another great stop on any Florida Keys itinerary, at mile marker 48.5. It’s a small non-profit rehabilitation and rescue center on Marathon Key. They rescue endangered sea turtles and provide hospital services to them. If they can be fully rehabilitated, they will eventually be re-released out into the ocean. But some of them will never be fully rehabilitated, so they call the Turtle Hospital home.

You can visit those turtles while you’re at the Turtle Hospital. Since they can’t be released back into the ocean, they are used to provide a unique educational experience for visitors at the hospital. A lot of them have been injured due to interactions with humans. Or things like eating garbage left by humans on the beaches and in the ocean.

So the hospital uses them to show the harmful impact humans have on them, and hopefully inspire visitors to be better and do better when enjoying the beautiful natural areas in Florida.

Drive The 7 Mile Bridge

You can get to the rest of the Florida Keys without driving on the famous 7 Mile Bridge. The 7 Mile Bridge is easily one of the most impressive bridges you’ll cross. It is actually 7 miles long, that’s not just a random name. You’ll cross it at the west end of Marathon Key, in the Middle Keys, and it takes you to the Lower Keys and Key West.

Here you will also see the famous Duck Key which is also an interesting stop along the way.

As you’re driving across the bridge, you’ll also see the ‘Old 7 Mile Bridge’, which was originally built in the 1900s. The bridge you’ll be driving across was built between 1978 to 1982, so it’s totally safe to drive across. But, if you want, the ‘Old’ bridge is open for pedestrians to walk across, which can be fun, even if you just walk on it for a couple of feet.

Where To Stay In Marathon Key

Just a mile away from Key Colony Beach, you’ll find the budget-friendly Fairfield by Marriot Inn & Suites Marathon Florida Keys .

If you’re looking for a more luxurious option, the Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club is an excellent option.

The Hampton Inn Marathon – Florida Keys is another great budget-friendly option with great reviews.

Bahia Honda State Park

At mile marker 37 you’ll find the Bahia Honda State Park located on Big Pine Key. The Bahia Honda State Park is easily one of the best state parks in the Florida Keys. So this is one stop in the Florida Keys that I’d highly suggest you don’t skip. Not only is it one of the best state parks, but it’s also where you’ll find some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys.

At over 500 acres, the park is pretty huge and has plenty of hiking trails, and pristine beaches, and you can even go snorkeling there. You can rent kayaks, grab a snack at the concession stand, or schedule a snorkeling tour through the park itself. You can also camp overnight at the park in a camper, RV, or bring your own tent!

This is my favorite place to recommend in Florida. It is just spectacular.

National Key Deer Refuge

The National Key Deer Refuge is located at mile marker 30.5, in the Lower Florida Keys. It was established in 1957 to protect the Key Deer, a unique species of deer found in the Florida Keys. The park is 8,542 acres and inside the park there is a large variety of habitats that the endangered Key Deer thrive in. From pine rockland forests, freshwater wetlands, mangrove forests, and more.

In the refuge you can go hiking, bird watching, and you can even take part in Ranger-led tours throughout the park. You can also go boating, fishing, snorkeling, and diving off-shore. The trails all have different difficulty levels, but many of them are paved. Just remember that you can not have any motorized vehicles anywhere on the refuge grounds – besides the parking lot.

End Your Florida Keys Road Trip In Key West

You made it and you’re finally in Key West! Key West is probably the most popular Florida Key to visit, and it’s one of my favorite small towns in Florida . So you’ll find tons and tons of things to do there. One of my favorite things to do in Key West is to take a Guided Bike Tour that ends with a slice of famous key lime pie.

You may be surprised to learn that key lime pie was invented in Key West. So you can’t visit Key West without at least trying a slice of locally made Key lime pie from Old Town Key West! Of course, there are lots of great options to try all along Duval Street, the most famous street in the city.

If you like being out in the water, another great activity in Key West is a Sunset Sail with Live Music . You’ll set off on the ocean in a sailboat that is stocked with unlimited drinks and appetizers. While you enjoy the sunset view, you’ll be serenaded by live music. It’s a great romantic activity during your road trip from Miami to Key West.

No matter what you decide to do while you’re in Key West, you’ll have a good time. You can choose to stay the night in Key West, or you can drive from Key West to Miami and hit the stops you missed along the way. It’s really up to you and how you want to spend your time driving the Florida Keys!

Book your Guided Bike Tour Here: Getyourguide.com

Book your Sunset Sail with Live Music Here: Getyourguide.com

Where To Stay In Key West

The Hampton Inn – Key West is a great budget-friendly option for staying in Key West.

If you’re looking for a more elevated experience, try the Kimpton Winslow’s Bungalow , an IHG Hotel.

The Capitana Key West is perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront hotel in Key West.

Best Places To Eat On The Miami To Key West Road Trip

Alabama Jacks , in Key Largo, is a super popular restaurant in the Florida Keys. They’ve been open since the 1950s, and it’s been considered one of the best Florida fish shacks for decades. It truly is a little shack, built over the water, that looks like nothing from the road. But don’t drive by this hidden gem while you’re driving to Key West. Alabama Jacks is known for their conch fritters, so make sure to give them a try!

Hogfish Bar & Grill , in Key West is a favorite with the locals and with tourists. While you enjoy a delicious meal, you’ll also get to enjoy panoramic views of the ocean. That’s because it’s literally on a dock, with plenty of outdoor seating and heaps of character. When you’re there, make sure you try their signature dish – fried hogfish on fresh Cuban bread!

Make sure you stop by Better Than Sex , in Key West, for a post-meal treat. It’s a dessert bar with a speakeasy vibe that makes eating and enjoying dessert an ‘experience’. At this dessert bar you’ll be able to try local specialty, key lime pie. But they also have freshly baked cookies, pies in almost any flavor you can think of, and so much more.

Just a heads up, as the name of the restaurant probably suggests, the menu items are named very cheeky things. So you might want to skip this place if you’re traveling with kids and don’t want to have to answer any awkward questions.

As you can see, there is so much to do and see when you’re road-tripping the Florida Keys! It’s such a cool part of Florida to explore. I hope that you’ve found this Miami to Key West road trip helpful and inspires you to head out onto the road.

Have you ever explored Miami to Key West by car? If so, I’d love to hear about your favorite stops in the comments!

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10 Coolest Stops on a Miami to Key West Road Trip for 2024

Driving from Miami to Key West is one of the most beautiful drives in the USA you can do. Here’s where to stop along the way on a Miami to Key West road trip.

Taking you from the glitz and glamour of Miami to the natural beauty of the Florida Keys, the Miami to Key West drive is definitely one to do in daylight.

Like any trip to Florida, you’re safe in the knowledge that this Miami to Key West road trip will give you plenty of time to enjoy the clear water and breathtaking beaches, but what you may not expect, is the fact that you can drive through it over the ‘Overseas Highway’ bridge. You’ll be surrounded by azure waters as you cruise across.

The drive to Key West from Miami is stunning.

Rather than doing the 3-4 hour drive all in one, I’d recommend breaking up the 164-mile distance from Miami to Key West with some of these top attractions.

I was a passenger on this trip a few years ago, squished in to the back seat of a 16-seater van along the Key West Highway.

I need to do this again, with me in the driving seat, and of a Mustang if possible. The good news is, renting a car in Miami is easy!

Your Miami to Key West Road Trip

Here are all the best stops if you want to drive from Miami to Key West. Make sure you plan enough time at the start of your trip, there are lots of great things to do in Miami to keep you busy.

This map of the Miami to Key West road trip will make it easier to envisage. Route seems pretty straight forward right? BUT, where to stop?

1. Explore Miami

You need at least a few days in Miami to start off your Miami to Key West road trip. It’s such a cool city, and there are loads of great things to do in Miami too – you definitely won’t run out!

My top recommendations would be to chill out on South Beach, go to Little Havana and do a food tour , and to book some sweet accommodation to get you out of the intense Miami heat. Also, you need to go out in the evening and experience the Miami nightlife.

If you want some up to the minute inspiration on what to do, see and eat, take a look at inside Miami Beach for the latest openings and highly rated classics to make your Miami trip one to remember.

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI: Hotel East Miami

Hotel East Miami is a wonderful accommodation with an onsite restaurant, fitness centre, retail shops, spas and bars. Each house has a modern walk in rain shower, Wi-Fi and floor to ceiling windows. Rooms have a spacious balcony, 50-inch flat screen TVs and coffee making services. There’s even an outdoor pool with four unique pool experiences; spa pool, cold plunge, hot tub and lap pool. You’ll thank me for it in the Miami heat!

Click to check the prices and photos, or book!

ANOTHER MIAMI ACCOMMODATION: Mandarin Oriental Miami

The Mandarin Oriental has a balcony, flat-screen cable TV and a music docking station included in all guest rooms. Mandarin Oriental, Miami also offers an infinity-edge outdoor pool with butler service as well as a state-of-the-art fitness centre. After a yoga class or personal training session, guests can relax with a massage in the full-service spa. If you want a luxury experience to start off your Miami to Key West road trip, this is the hotel for you!

2. Take a boat trip in the Everglades

Rather than immediately going south from Miami to Key Largo, head west when you leave the city and come 30 minutes stop at the Everglades, one of the most unique and beautiful spots in the country.

It’s a bit of a detour, but a great stop on a road trip to Key West from Miami.

The Everglades are a 20,202 km² area of wetlands made up of marshes, swamps, rivers, lakes and mangroves that, because of its unique tropical ecosystem, are home to loads of different species.

You could easily spend days here, but if you’re keen to keep on with the Miami to Key West drive, opt for just one activity like a boat tour, bird watching session or alligator farm visit. I went for the alligator airboat ride – it was wonderfully nervewracking! 

You can prebook your Everglades alligator and airboat tour with GetYourGuide to get the best price, and know you have a space before you set off. 

WHERE TO STAY IN THE EVERGLADES: Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House 

The Everglades Adventures Hotel features huge family rooms and is in a great location. Every room is fitted with a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. All units at Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites are equipped with a seating area too. If you want a spacious place to stay, near all the action and with good parking, then this is the hotel for you.

3. Snorkel at Key Largo

Another hour in the car and you’ll hit the first of the Florida Keys. Key Largo is known as the dive capital of the keys partly because it’s home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the world’s largest artificial reef.

How can you drive by that and not take a peek?

Spend an afternoon swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving in amongst the reef as well as a Spanish shipwreck before refuelling somewhere like the Waffle House Diner, Mrs Mac’s Kitchen or Sundowners. 

If you’re short on time this incredible 1 hour scenic flight over Key Largo will give you a good idea of the area, and a new perspective!

“ Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and discover the wonders of Key Largo from above. Fly over the largest of the fabulous Florida Keys and soak up spectacular views of Biscayne Bay, Biscayne National Park, the Southern Glades, Miami Zoo, and more.”

WHERE TO STAY IN KEY LARGO: Kawama Yacht Club Apartment

The Kawama Yacht Club Apartment features beachfront accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a private beach area and free Wi-Fi. With free private parking, the apartment is in a great area for activities like snorkelling, diving and fishing.

The apartments have 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower.

4. Eat at the Blond Giraffe Key Lime Factory

Just another 20 minutes on the Overseas Highway in your rental car and you can sample the official dessert of the Keys, key lime pie.

Made from the island-grown key limes, diners, cafes and bakeries across the coral cay archipelago say that they serve the perfect pie. But how will you know if you’ve never tried one before?

One of the best things about driving from Miami to Key West is all the foodie possibilities along the way.

Start your sweet pie journey in the Blond Giraffe Key Lime Factory so you can carry onto the rest of the keys with a benchmark in mind. Located in Tavernier off Mile Marker 92.2, you can enjoy a piece roadside in the secret garden or else take a pie to go.

Make sure you get your travel insurance sorted before you go on a solo road trip. HeyMondo offer 24/7 worldwide assistance with travel cancellation and interruption cover. They also have tailor made policies and cover medical expenses up to $10 million. Click here and you’ll get 5% off your travel insurance with HeyMondo.com too. Check out their App for more details. 

5. Relax in Islamorada

Another 15 minutes into the Florida road trip and you’ll reach Islamorada, which ticks all the compulsory Key boxes of white sands and turquoise waters. But there’s way more to do here than simply beach nap and swim.

You can check out the History of Diving Museum or, if you’re playing passenger, swing by the Florida Brewing Company.

The favourite spot here though is a waterfront restaurant called Robbie’s. Aside from serving up great fish, it offers a bunch of activities including tarpon feeding which, given the huge pelicans waiting to catch the feed, can be pretty funny.

WHERE TO STAY IN ISLAMORADA : Islander Resort  

The Islander Resort is a tranquil and relaxing retreat directly on the beach in the Florida Keys . This property offers spacious accommodation equipped with microwaves and refrigerators and easy access to attractions and activities. A variety of activities are found only minutes from the Islander Resort, including snorkelling and scuba diving. 

6. See the animals in Marathon

Once you’ve pulled yourself away from Islamorada keep running down the miles from Miami to Key West before making another stop in the city of Marathon.

Spanning 13 islands, again it’s got the beaches, barrier reef and waters, but it’s also the home to loggerhead turtles living on the likes of Coco Plum and Sombrero beaches.

For $25, you can learn more about them by taking a tour of The Turtle Hospital, which rescues sea turtles and returns them to the waters once they’re well enough.

As if this place wasn’t hitting the cuteness factor hard enough, there’s then the Dolphin Research Center, Marathon Wild Bird Center and the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters too.

Make the effort to pop into some of these animal experiences on your drive from Miami to Key West and you can help contribute to the funding of the sanctuaries too.

WHERE TO STAY IN MARATHON: Key Breeze Hideaway LLC

Featuring garden views, Key Breeze Hideaway has a private beach area and barbecue facilities. The villa features 3 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower.

7. Enjoy cruising Seven Mile Bridge

Head out of Marathon and you’ll quickly reach the Seven Mile (6.8 miles in fact) Bridge, which is not technically a stop but something to take in. If you watch the video I made below, you can see me cycling across this.

This updated version of the historical bridge was completed back in 1982 to connect Marathon with the Lower Keys and, as one of the longest bridges in the world, it’s a big part of getting you from Miami to Key West.

The bridge runs across the Florida Strait and Gulf of Mexico with the old bridge for pedestrians running parallel. This is the perfect opportunity to crank up the radio and enjoy nothing but the open road, beautiful views and your favourite tunes as you drive the Florida Keys.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE 7-MILE BRIDGE: Tranquility Bay Resort

Every charming guestroom at the Tranquility Bay Resort includes a flat-screen TV, small refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities. The beach homes feature an en-suite kitchen, 42-inch flat-screen TV, and private laundry facilities.

Relax with in-room spa services or workout in the on-site fitness room. Water sports, such as kayaking and paddle boarding, are available.

8. Relax at the Bahia Honda State Park

At the end of the bridge you’ll reach this ‘beach haven and marine sanctuary’. For $8 a vehicle you can cruise on into paradise, aka the Bahia Honda State Park, and spend a few hours lapping up some relaxation.

Sunbathe, swim, snorkel or kayak, birdwatch, boat or bike, and if you end up staying until sunset, it’s the perfect place to do a bit of stargazing.

WHERE TO STAY AT BAHIA HONDA STATE PARK: Sunshine Key King Travel Trailer 6  

The Sunshine Key King Travel Trailer 6 offers unique accommodation in Big Pine Key, free private parking and a great kitchen. This air-conditioned holiday home comes with a seating area, a kitchen with a microwave, and a cable flat-screen TV. A children’s playground can be found at the holiday home, along with a shared lounge. If you want to be right by the beach at the Bahia Honda State Park, then this is the holiday home for you.

9. Kayak at Big Pine Key

Drive to Key West from Miami and up next is the quieter Key of Big Pine. Kayak the calm waters here, explore the Blue Hole for alligators or else spot the island’s resident deer. The National Key Deer Refuge is in fact the top rated activity followed by a Key West eco tour, which involves dolphin spotting.

Before you get back in the car for the final stretch onto Key West, wet your whistle with a quick drink in No Name Pub. Since the eighties, patrons have been pinning currency onto every wall making it a place where money literally falls from the sky.

10. Have fun in Key West

You’ve made it! 

Well done, you’ve driven from Miami to Key West, enjoying the best of the best stops along the way. Now, all you need to do is enjoy the delights of Key West. Make sure to visit The Hemingway House & Museum where Ernest himself once lived.

Here are a few of my favourite things about Key West , and a look at the plane trip I did out to Dry Tortugas National Park too. I got to sit up front with the pilot, it was amazing! 

WHERE TO STAY IN KEY WEST: KEY LIME CALYPSO

Key Lime Calypso apartments come with a kitchen, an oven, a microwave and coffee machine, as well as a SWIMMING POOL. It’s in a great location right in the centre of Key West. Southernmost Point is half a km from Key Lime Calypso, and Key West Aquarium is 1 km from the property. If you want a central location, with a pool to cool off and some Key West flair, this is a great option for you.

ANOTHER HOTEL in KEY WEST: Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is one of the best accommodation options in Key West, featuring a casual café, outdoor pool and a huge variety of activities. Guest can enjoy swimming and walks in the gardens. Rooms here are furnished with a 55-inch flat screen and a fridge. Guests can enjoy beautiful ocean and landscape views from their private terrace.

More Key West trips for a day trip

If you’re looking for ideas of what to do for day trips in Key West, take a look at these excursions.

Key West day trips

• Key West: Catamaran Tour with Snorkelling & Water Activities
• Key West: Glass-Bottom Boat Sunset Cruise and Reef Tour
• Key West: Rum and Reggae Afternoon Snorkel and Sunset
• Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Key West
• Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider

Few ideas for what to do in the Florida Keys

You’ve done the drive from Miami to Key West – time to celebrate!

MORE: 15 Best Restaurants in the Florida Keys

Best time to visit Florida

“Rainfall is quite heavy in the summer with 155mm spread over July that increases to 203mm in September. Thunderstorms are more likely in the summer, but they are usually brief. If you prefer cooler weather, the best time to visit Florida is in low season. December has an average temperature of 16°C, but you can expect highs of up to 23°C.” – THOMAS COOK

Your Miami to Key West road trip

If you need anymore advice on taking a road trip in the USA , I have articles!

I’ve done quite a few road trips in Florida now, and the Miami to Key West one is definitely one of the most impressive. I hope you enjoy your trip, and let me know if this Miami Key West itinerary has helped you plan in the comments below.

Questions about driving from Miami to Key West

If you have any questions about the Miami to Key West road trip, just let me know in the comments below.

1. Is the Miami to Key West road trip worth it?

Oh, absolutely! I mean, you could just drive it in 4 hours, but where’s the fun in that?

Plan you drive from Miami to Key West to include at least a few of these road trip stops and it’ll be one to remember.

2. How many days do you need in Key West?

I was in Key West for three days, and I’d recommend anything up to 5, unless you really like beaches.

3. How far is the drive from Miami to Key West?

The journey from Miami to Key West is 159 miles, which takes around four hours direct along the Overseas Highway. Drive to Key West from Miami and you definitely won’t forget it!

4. Is Key Largo or Key West better?

Hmmm, difficult question. If you want more activities and attractions, then Key West is a good shout. If your idea of fun is in more ‘natural’ surroundings, then go to Key Largo.

The distance from Key Largo to Key West is only 2 hours. You can definitely have a good amount of time in both with this Miami to Key West road trip itinerary.

Check out these top tips on saving money on a USA road trip to ensure you can do all the more.

5. What should I know about Miami to Key West road trip?

Miami to Key West is a worth driving trip not only done by car but also has other transportation options such as bus, train, boat, and plane. Either way, the trip is comprised of a scenic route that greatly shows the beautiful landscape of the distancing cities. At one point, you’ll be enchanted by the pristine waters surrounding you, filling your eyes as you travel the long roads. And while there are common stops between the two that most people enjoy going to, there are also hidden gems to visit. 

6. How much time would it take for a Miami to Key West road trip?

On a non-stop road trip, Miami to Key West would only take over 4 hours. But where’s the fun to that when you’re missing a lot of stops that you can enjoy! So with stops, some would even break their trip into days.

7. Where to eat while on a drive from Miami to Key West?

Hungry Tarpon, Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, and Blond Giraffe Key Lime Factory are just some of the spots where you can eat on the Miami to Key West road trip.

8. When is the best time to drive from Miami to Key West?

I encourage you to drive from Miami to Key West in daylight as the best time in doing so. Otherwise, you won’t appreciate the landscapes and the azure waters you’ll pass by when in dark. 

9. What to prepare on a Miami to Key west drive?

Aside from a sound mind for a drive, make sure you prepare a planned itinerary when you resort to a long Miami to Key west road trip. 

Accommodation in Key West

Need to book somewhere to stay in Key West? How about checking out the apartments on Booking.com? They have some beautiful beachside homes you can book for just you and your friends, or you can book a room in a Key West home. Either way it’s a bit more personal and exciting than a hotel. 

Take a look at the best apartments in Key West on this link.

PIN THIS MIAMI TO KEY WEST ROAD TRIP FOR LATER

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• Planning a Road Trip in the USA: 13 Best Routes!
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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

18 Comments

What time is a good time to leave Miami to key west road trip ?

We are going in November! Love all the tips and ideas…Thanks

Hi thanks for sharing this amazing blog post. It is really well written and informative. I am Waiting for your next blog. Will you like to share your blog ideas with us.

There is not a restaurant called Robbies. It’s called Hungry Tarpon. Robbies is the shopping part of it with the tarpon. My mom lives there.

Hey Vicky, love this website/information! I just wrote a romantic novel set in a fictional Key with trips to the other Keys & Key West, also with lots of fun & educational info called „Turtle Key“ – would you like to read it & possibly mention it here? Pls. let me know, I‘ll be happy to send you a copy 🙂

What a wonderful trip I just experienced with you! Thank you for sharing all of your great finds. Would love to take this trip one day!

love florida

Fabulous pointers on attractions on the toad to key west

Is it worth double the car rental price to rent a convertible?

Depends on your budget and how much you care, for some people it will be worth the extra but others – too much. You could just have your windows open!

COVID update: Two of the listed recommended stops are closed due to COVID as of 2/21: Blond Giraffe Key Lime Factory National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center

@SilverKing, can we just pick up a pie to go?

Great, thank you for the update. It’s hard to keep up with everything!

You might want to edit your article for brevity. Ernest Hemingway’s house is NOT in Islamorada, but rather in Key West. Hard to take your other recommendations seriously when you make a huge error like that one.

Thanks for your input Kate. I have actually been there so that was a total oversight by me. I’m changed it and thanks for letting me know. Vicky

@VickyFlipFlop, Good for you, big deal, everyone makes mistakes. You are very knowledgeable & I loved all your input, thanks!

That’s a cool place to roadtrip..iread your your blog..It’s so easy and flat but the scenery is out of this world!

Seems you had a great trip Vicky! I really enjoy reading your post, very well writen, also nice pictures! I would love to make some of the stops you made to Key West!

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

The Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary (Best Stops!)

June 10, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

If you are looking for a guide to the ultimate Florida Keys road trip itinerary, we have you covered with all the best places to stop!

We have put together an epic itinerary for a road trip to Key West from Miami . Trust us when we say we have picked out the best stops along the way! We have you covered with activities, things to do, as well as hotel and tour suggestions!

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Key West!

Top Experiences And Tours In Key West:

• Dolphin Watching And Snorkeling Eco Tour (Top pick!)
• Schooner Sunset Sail (2 hours)
• Reef Snorkel From Key West (Includes breakfast and mimosas)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Great way to see the city)

Top Places To Stay In Key West:

• Margaritaville Beach House Key West (Modern mid-range)
• Blue Marlin Motel (Affordable in downtown)
• Hampton Inn Key West (Waterfront with pool)
• Wicker Guesthouse (Great location!)

You can make the trip your own by choosing stops that best fit your personal interests. Or if you want a personalized trip experience checkout our e-book for amazing personalized touches on the best stops! Take as little or as much time as you have. You can do a quick day trip if you don’t mind a quick-paced trip, a weekend get-a-way, or spend a week leisurely visiting all the stops linked below! 

To adventuring outdoors at state parks, to going offshore to visit Dry Tortugas national park, to snorkeling the only living US coral reef, to fun stops for families and adults like where you can spot the Key Deer or feed tarpon, to visiting Key West and all the best beaches along the way, trust us this itinerary for the best road trip to the Florida Keys that is action-packed!

Before you plan your trip, make sure to check out The Best Times To Visit The Keys where we break down each month and talk all things weather!

How long does the Florida Keys road trip take?

If you were to drive non-stop from Miami to Key West on your Florida Keys road trip the 165 miles journey would take you just over 3 hours. Meaning you can decide the perfect amount of time to spend on your Florida Keys drive from Miami!

How long should you take on your Florida Keys itinerary?

You could make it a day trip, a weekend trip, or a week-long trip! The choice is yours! We have put together a list of the best places to stop on a drive from Miami to Key West. Stop at one, or stop at all, meaning you can put together your very own trip curated to your own interests and travel style.

OR take the guesswork out of your itinerary, and purchase our ebook that helps you plan your own trip, with unique itineraries and bonuses! You can purchase it here:   https://floridatrippers.com/florida-keys-itinerary-planning-ebook/

Best time of year to road trip the Florida Keys

Anytime! The average temperature year-round ranges from 73 to 83 degrees for the Florida Keys! And the sunshine state has an average of 270 sunny days a year, meaning there is no wrong time to plan a trip!

There are plenty of festivals throughout the year or head to the southernmost points of the US for the holidays! Just remember that hurricane season does run from June to November, meaning you might have to be a little flexible on your plans if a hurricane or tropical storm is headed towards the Florida Keys or Miami!

Best stops on your Florida Keys road trip itinerary:

Downtown miami.

The first of our epic places to stop on a drive from Miami to Key West is Downtown Miami . If you flew into MIA airport, this will be the perfect spot to explore, grab a bite to eat, visit a museum such as the Frost Museum of Science or Perez Art Museum or take a relaxing stroll along the water before heading south on your drive.

In this energy-filled town, you are sure to find plenty to explore, and perhaps take in an NBA or MLB game. If you are on a romantic getaway we have you covered with the best date nights in Miami as Miami is a city that comes alive after dark!

Biscayne Bay National Park

Who doesn’t love free Florida keys road trip stops? Biscayne Bay National Park is one of the best National parks in Florida , and it’s free to enter! On your second stop, we take you away from the busy city to explore nature. Visitors will be transported to the turquoise waters and colorful coral reefs found in this national park. Over 95% of this national park is covered by water!

The activities here range from guided eco-adventures, fishing, and boating to paddling, snorkeling, and scuba diving the shipwrecks just offshore to just relaxing! While exploring, you can always take a  boat cruise  through the docks and sail over Biscayne Bay.

The Everglades, are the second National Park on this itinerary for the Florida Keys! We have a list of all the best things to do in the Everglades for those wanting to spend more time here!  At over two million acres to explore, the Everglades provide countless activities and ways to explore this very unique ecosystem.

If you are up for an adventure, an airboat ride is a perfect way to see areas of the Everglades only seen by water. But there are plenty of biking and hiking trails ( or take a ranger-led tour) if you prefer to stay on land. Keep your eyes sharp the Everglades is a habitat for endangered and rare species like the manatee, American crocodile, and the Florida panther.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John Pennekamp is one of the most magical of the Florida state parks and is located in the Key Largo at MM 102.5. This is a scuba divers’ dream destination for those driving in the Florida Keys and looking for a place to stop! It is actually the first undersea state park in the entire US!! It protects the only living reef in the United States, and as such is an underwater lovers’ paradise.

While here you can explore the over 70 nautical miles of beautiful coral reefs, hike along the pine trees, or snorkel along the mangroves and shoreline. We highly recommend this as one of the stops along with your Florida Keys Road Trip from Miami!! You can also book a glass bottom boat ride to see the tropical fish and the reef without having to get wet!

Key Largo is a great place to stop for the first day when road tripping the Florida Keys. There is so much to do here in Key Largo! Known as the “Dive Capital of the World,” you will find beautiful beaches with pristine waters. While it does in fact boast those things, there’s a whole island of adventure waiting for you at MM 102.

There are plenty of beaches to explore, an offshore shipwreck and coral reef, explore water sports like jet skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking or charter a boat for some fishing! Plus, there are tons of amazing restaurants to enjoy fresh seafood on your visit.

Windley Key Fossil Reef State Park

Windley Key Fossil Reef State Park is one of our favorite places to visit in the Florida Keys! Windley Key State Park is a historic site that doubles as a geological area that is formed by fossilized Key Largo Limestone. The entrance fee is $2.50 a person is a perfect way to spend a full day or even just a few hours it makes for an inexpensive stop on a Florida Keys road trip! It is located at MM 85.5.

It is important to note that the park is closed Tuesday and Wednesday, but open Thursday through Monday. You can take one of the five self-guided tours throughout the quarry that Henry Flagler used to build his railroad or experience it at your own pace on a self-guided tour.

This is one of the best and most iconic stops on the famous Florida Overseas Highway!

Islamorada is located about 1.5 hours ( 79 miles) south of Miami at MM 88 and makes our list of the best small beach towns in Florida. The best part is that Islamorada is almost the halfway point between Miami and Key West!

There are six islands that make up Islamorada and are connected via US1. Known as the sports fishing capital of the world, there are also tons of amazing restaurants, gorgeous national parks, and tons of activities.

Make sure to check out some of the Best Islamorada Restaurants for your trip!

You can check out our full list of things to do in Islamorada here! From visiting the Theater of the sea to swimming with dolphins to a fishing charter, history of the diving museum, state, and national parks, and more!

Peak season is in December through May and the best part is you are surrounded by Gulf on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other! This is truly home to some of the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys!

Visit Robbie’s Waterfront to feed the tarpon

Robbie’s is probably one of the most well-known stops on your Key West road trip. Located at MM 77 to you can spend a few hours here enjoying lunch and then feed the school of over 100 massive tarpons for $2.50 per person. Kids and adults alive love to partake in feeding the fish and watching the seagulls try and catch the fish here. Fish buckets are $4.50.

The restaurant is open from 6:30 am for a sunrise breakfast until 9 pm for after dinner cocktails. Robbies also has a party boat fishing charter that leaves twice a day and includes everything you need for a fun day on the ocean. As well as sunset catamaran charters.

Dolphin Research Center

The Dolphin Research Center is located at MM 59 ( about 2 hours south of Miami), and has been providing sanctuaries to dolphins since 1984. The center’s mission is to promote education and communication between marine mammals and humans.

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m, admission is $28 for adults and $23 for children. Admission includes observing the dolphins and sea lions in training sessions and interacting with each other.

In addition to the educational experiences offered, you can book a dolphin encounter where you can get up close and personal with dolphins in the water. Or even paint with a dolphin experience or a VIP trainer for the day.

The Turtle Hospital

The Turtle Hospital is located at MM 48.5 in Marathon, Florida. Since 1986, the mission at the Turtle hospital has been to rehabilitate turtles and educate the public about turtles. Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm tours run every 30 minutes.

If you love Marathon, make sure to check out some of our other favorite things to do in the Middle Keys!

Admission is $30 for adults and $15 for children. This is one of the educational Florida Keys road trip ideas. Over the 90-minute educational experience, you will watch a presentation on sea turtles, get a behind-the-scenes look at the hospital facilities and rehabilitation area, and finally the chance to feed the turtles.

Reservations can be made online!

Don’t forget to check out some of the best restaurants in Marathon Key!

Drive or walk the 7 Mile Bridge

When driving the Florida Keys the 7 Mile Bridge is located at MM 42 in Marathon. This is the bridge that connects the middle keys with the lower keys. For those who want to continue their road trip, you will have no choice but to drive over the new 7-Mile Bridge that was finished in 1982. IT is the longest bridge in the state of Florida.

But for those who want to get out stretch their legs, and smell the salty ocean breeze why not walk the old bridge or a portion of it? This bridge is important historically as it made a land route from Miami to Key West.

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park is one of our favorite places to stop on the way to Key West. Located at MM 37, about 30 miles north of Key West. We have put together an entire post on all the tips for visiting Bahia Honda . It was Henry Flagler who spent $30 million to build a railroad to Key West in the early 1900s that turned Bahia Honda State Park into a tropical paradise.

Make sure to check out some of our other favorite things to do in the Lower Keys in addition to Bahia Honda!

Bahia Honda State Park costs $8 per car to enter and is the place to stop if you love palm-lined beaches, clear water, and just activities like snorkeling, camping, and swimming at one of the three beaches from sunrise to sunset!

Although make sure to arrive early on weekends and holidays because it can reach capacity.

This is truly one of the Best Beaches In The Florida Keys and you must check it out!

National Key Deer Refuge

For those looking to get up close to the Key Deer only found in the lower keys, the National Key Deer Refuge is the place for you! What makes the key deer unique is that there are only about 800 left that can only be found on Big Pine Key . This small dog-like deer is only 2 ½ feet tall and weighs just 90 pounds.

This is a free activity to spend an hour or so, visiting the visitors center and learning all about the key deer. Established in 1957, at MM 30.5 it aims to protect species of animals such as the key deer and 20 other endangered species and plants.

Please note it is against the law to feed, touch, or hunt the key deer.

Dry Tortugas National Park

The Dry Tortugas National Park is the only stop on this Florida Keys road trip guide that is only accessible by private or  chartered boat tour ,  chartered seaplane  tour, or the  Yankee Freedom Ferry . 

If you want to add this stop to your Florida Keys road trip we highly recommend booking your dates as early as possible! The Dry Tortugas are a group of seven small islands 80 miles off the coast of Key West. Located in the Gulf of Mexico its iconic red brick Fort Jefferson transports visitors back in time. You will be in awe of how beautiful the water is, and how remote this national park truly is!

For those into camping and stargazing , this is your place! Just remember you must pack everything in and out with you! Check out  our guide  to avoid the big mistakes plus tips when visiting  Dry Tortugas National Park !

Key West is as far south as you can drive on this Florida Keys itinerary! At MM 0, you will find the southernmost point of the continental US! There are so many things to do here in Key West! Don’t let the party atmosphere scare you away from visiting. There are historical sights like Ernest Hemingway or Truman winter home, beaches, amazing restaurants , and plenty of activities to enjoy after the sun sets.

We have an entire post dedicated to the best tours in Key West from those craving adventure to laid-back food and walking tours!

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is one of the hidden gems on this Florida keys driving itinerary. You will be mesmerized by the gorgeous blue water inviting you in for a swim or snorkel. Plus, the beach area is super instagrammable!

It is also the southernmost  state park  in the continental US and has our vote as one of the  best Florida Keys state parks! The cost to enter per car is $6.50 and is open from 8 am-5 pm daily.

Built in the 1840s, as a series of forts to protect the southern coast after the conflict of the War of 1812 and used during the Civil War and Spanish American War, it was named after US President Zachary Taylor.

Smathers Beach

The last stop on your Florida Keys driving guide is Smathers beach ! This gorgeous white sand beach is the best beach to go for those looking for real sand, as most beaches in Key West are pebble or rock. The imported white sand is the perfect place to relax and swim or snorkel in the water. All of the usual facilities are present here like parking and showers. 

The last stop on our Florida Keys road trip is the perfect place to relax and unwind before your drive back to Miami!

Where to stay on your Florida Keys road trip itinerary

Key west marriott beachside.

For those looking to stay in Key West, we highly recommend staying at Key West Marriott Beachside , like we did on our last trip to the area! But have also put together a list of the best luxury hotels in Key West.

 The resort is located on the oceanfront with a large pool as the centerpiece of the resort. At the hotel’s marina, you can rent jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Plus, there is a complimentary hotel shuttle downtown multiple times daily meaning you don’t have to bother with trying to find parking. This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Key West!

Many of the balconies are oceanfront allowing you to relax and enjoy a sunset or ocean breeze from your town room!

Check Rates:  Booking.com

We give Bakers Cay resort in Key Largo a 10/10! Located just over an hour from Miami, this could be the perfect spot to spend your first night on your Florida Keys road trip! This cool and unique hotel features gorgeously appointed rooms with ocean views!

There are tons of activities that the resort provides including snorkel, boat, and dive tours! The property also features two large pools and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Make sure to check out our list of the Best Resorts In The Florida Keys ! There are some really epic resorts featured for couples, families, and more.

Check Rates: Booking.co m

Cheeca Lodge and Spa

Cheeca Lodge and Spa is located in Islamorada, one of the cutest small towns in Florida! It is located 15 minutes from the local airport or just a 1.5-hour drive south of Miami. A stay here means relaxing in a lush tropical paradise surrounded by the turquoise waters of the ocean. This is truly one of the best luxury hotels in Florida!

The property features a golf course, restaurants, pools, sea kayaks and bicycles for guests to use, Camp Cheeca for children, and an ocean-front bar! The rooms here are luxurious with all the amenities one could want and balconies to enjoy the ocean view or golf and lagoon views.

Check Rates: booking.com

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club

Marathon is just over 2 hours (114 miles) from Miami making it the perfect place to stop for the night on your Florida Keys vacation itinerary. Don’t let the resort and yacht club scare you the property is reasonably priced averaging $230 a night!

The resort is on the water and features modern rooms, with a gorgeous pool and onsite restaurant. It is easy to spot by its historic lighthouse right on the bay.

Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Awesome Activities You Need to Do

Posted on Published: February 19, 2020  - Last updated: January 29, 2024

It’s one of the most iconic road trips in the USA…driving the stretch down the Florida keys is incredible! Your Miami to Key West road trip can be high adventure, low key (haha, had to) or anything in between.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

I loved my vacation in the Florida keys, but I got to thinking there was probably more on this epic road trip from Miami to Key West than what I experienced. So I reached out to my fellow travel bloggers to see their favorite parts of the Florida keys and they did not disappoint !

There’s honestly probably a hundred stops driving to Key West that would be great for soaking in the Florida keys. If you have unlimited time you absolutely should do it all! But if that’s not the case, here’s the top 22 things you can do on your road trip from Miami to Key West.

Oh, and seriously consider what your Florida road trip itinerary might look like. I’d highly recommend staying at least one night in Miami, 2 nights in Key West, and at least one night between. I’ll get into that more later. 🙂

Miami Beach to Key West road trip

With so much to do in and around Miami, let’s make a couple stops on our way to Highway 1.

Stop #1: Miami Beach

Because Miami Beach is such an iconic beach in Florida – and the USA – we’re going to start this road trip there! Now you could probably spend an entire week just exploring the Miami Beach area, because there’s so much to do. Hang out at South Beach, the Art Deco Historic District or the popular Ocean Drive.

Pro tip: Ocean Drive can be a bit of a tourist trap. My husband and I fell for a terrible ad at a restaurant and ended up paying $25 for each margarita – plus a pricey dinner. So keep your eyes out and try not to spend all your vacation money before you hit the road.

Pro tip #2: if you’re going to spend much time at Miami Beach, plan to get there early. The beach is large but it fills up early, especially on the weekends.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

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Related read: 101 Road Trip Snacks You’ll Love

Capture insta-worthy pics at the Wynwood Art District

Before embarking on an epic Florida Keys road trip, stretch your legs by spending a few hours admiring the murals in Miami’s Wynwood Art District. Because of the constant updates, no 2 visits to the murals will ever be exactly alike.

Whether you choose to walk through the area by yourself or join a guided tour , you’ll find murals from both world-famous and rising artists . A guided tour led by a local artist adds a unique dimension as you’ll get some behind the scenes info.

With over 400 businesses in the area, there’s plenty to see. Shops and galleries showcase local artisans’ works. The neighborhood also houses some of the best foodie destinations in Miami, from James Beard award-winning restaurants, food trucks, and craft breweries.

Saturdays are the busiest days to visit but also the most fun. The best time to visit is the second Saturday of every month. Starting at 6 pm, Wynwood’s Art Walk turns the entire area into Miami’s largest block party .

Shops and galleries stay open into the night so you can enjoy a great night out. And if you want to send a few more days in the area before hitting the road, check out this Miami itinerary for more ideas.

Be sure to add a stop to Miami’s Wynwood Art District to your best things to do on a road trip from Miami to Key West.

Recommended by Annick Lenoir-Peek of The Common Traveler

Step back in time at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

In the heart of Biscayne Bay, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is an oasis-like escape.

Built between 1914-1916, it served as a winter estate for Chicago-businessman James Deering. After his death and a devastating hurricane, it became a public museum in 1952. The interiors and gardens are well preserved with an antique quality about them.

Stepping into this home is like traveling back in time to a lavish Italian villa. The architecture and gardens are heavily influenced by Italian design. You’re free to explore the two floors of the house, which overlook a stunning indoor courtyard. You immediately get a sense of Mr. Deering’s lavish lifestyle.

My favorite part about the visit was the Barge in Biscayne Bay, outside the East terrace. Not only was the view stunning, but there were several iguanas enjoying the sunshine. This is one of the most interesting and historical places to stop on the drive from Miami to Key West.

Pro tip: visiting during the weekdays and early morning will be less crowded.

Location: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129

Recommended by Natasha Lequepeys of And Then I Met Yoko

Looking for more of Miami? Check out what to do in Miami if you have a few more hours to spend there.

Must-see during every Florida road trip: Everglades National Park

On your way from Miami to Key West, you will pass little Florida City – this town is a starting point to the south/main entrance of Everglades National Park. If you can book 2 hours of your travel time, it’s an excellent idea to visit at least Anhinga Trail and observe some fantastic birds and alligators.

Actually, it’s the easiest way and the best place to see Everglades wildlife in their natural habitat on your Miami to Key West road trip , so don’t waste this opportunity.

From Florida City, it’s about 13 miles drive (about 20 minutes) to Everglades Anhinga Trail , then take a short walk on designated paths. On your way, stop to pay the $30 USD entrance fee that allows you to stay up to 7 days.

The park itself is much bigger, and you can spend many days in it. But for the beginning and as a stop by, we definitely recommend visiting at least Anhinga Trail that most of the year gives you 100% chance to encounter alligators and birds like anhinga, egrets, herons, and vultures.

You can also spot turtles and fish. The best time of the day to visit this trail is early in the morning or afternoon just before the sunset. And the best time of the year is any sunny day between December and May.

Location: Anhinga Trail is near the Royal Palm Visitors Center, 40001 State Road 9336 Homestead Florida 33034

Recommended by Krzysztof of The Van Escape

Drive to Key West from Miami…let’s hit the road!

I know, I know, you’re ready to see the Florida Keys. It’s seriously one of the best scenic drives in Florida . Here we go!

Stop for water activities at Key Largo

Key Largo is the first town on the Florida Keys you reach while driving to Key West. Highway 1 enters halfway down this 33-mile long island after it leaves the mainland of Florida.

Money conscious tourists can find great values in Key Largo . Everything from gas to groceries to overnight accommodations costs less there than they do in Key West. 

Key Largo is where the Highway 1 drive starts to become truly beautiful.

This island is more than a pit stop to gas and go. There are sights you’ll only see in Key Largo. Scuba divers flock to the Keys, and they’ll certainly want to stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to see the underwater sculpture Christ of The Abyss. Even non-divers will enjoy this History of Diving Museum!

Everybody should stop at the Florida Keys Visitor Center for inspiration and money-saving coupons. Do you want the best-kept secret in the Upper Keys? You can park for free and play at Library Beach Park! It’s the perfect place to get out and stretch your legs on a long road trip.

Recommended by Jenn & Ed of Coleman Concierge

Take a glass-bottom boat tour in Key Largo

Experience the reef without stepping foot in the water. The glass bottom boat is the best way for kids and non-divers to espy this new world. Take a tour at  John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, America’s first underwater park .

The 2 ½ hour glass bottom boat tour traverses through the vast mangrove plantations, then deep into the ocean for a glimpse into the charming aquatic world. The glass floors of the catamaran allow you to huddle to see the beautiful fishes, coral reef and diverse aquatic ecosystem. Tours include a guide in the boat that thoroughly explains what you’re looking at. 

Pro tip: Book your tour in advance. With price of the tickets ranging from $17 for children to $24 for adults, it is a great steal. Here’s a great glass-bottom boat tour in Key Largo.

Pro tip #2: Take medication before the tour if you suffer from seasickness.

Recommended by Neha of Travel Melodies

Hang out at the beach in Plantation Key

As you drive through Key Largo and Islamorada, make sure to stop for some beach time at Plantation Yacht Harbor at Founders Park. The water is shallow for swimming and it’s a great spot to catch a sunset. Founders Park has amenities and is a great spot for a picnic, too.

Pro tip: make sure you pack your water shoes for this beach as the ocean floor can have seaweed. These are my favorite water shoes from Amazon and have traveled with me everywhere!

Location: 87000 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

Related reads: 8 Best Beaches on Turks and Caicos 7 Day Itinerary in Kauai, Hawaii

Popular stop on a Miami to Key West road trip: feed the tarpons Robbie’s in Islamorada

While road-tripping through the Florida Keys, there are few things more unique and incredible than just enjoying the long bridges and impossibly blue tropical water. However, located about halfway along your journey you’ll come across Lower Matecumbe Key, and a wonderful road trip stop there: Robbie’s Marina. 

At Robbie’s Marina, you’ll be able to have a drink and enjoy some amazing fresh seafood. However the thing that makes this place unlike any other is the tarpon feeding!

At Robbie’s you are able to buy a small bucket of fish which you can feed to the huge tarpons that hang out near the dock . You must try feeding the tarpon here, it is an awesome experience, especially if you are traveling with a family. 

Also at Robbie’s is a cool market where you can shop for trinkets, souvenirs, and really anything you can think of that you may need while enjoying your road trip through the Florida Keys. Your road trip will be a wonderful experience, and tarpon feeding at Robbie’s Marina is definitely one of the best places to stop on the road trip from Miami to Key West.

Location: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Recommended by Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Go kiteboarding at Vaca Key

One of the best adventure experiences that you can do on your drive to Key West from Miami is a kiteboarding experience at Vaca Key. It takes a little getting used to but if you are experienced with windsurfing or wake surfing, you can pick it up very quickly.

When you take a tour or class, the instructor is very cool and easy to work with and at the same time watches his students very carefully to make sure that safety is always considered and that there’s always enough time between wakeboarders to enjoy a session safely.

The course is fairly straight-forward but there are also jumps set up in different areas if you’re more advanced and want to try your skills with jumps and other fun techniques for advanced boarders. You can definitely pick up the basics in just one 2-hour session.

The wakeboarding is done on the grassy key at Cable Lake and run by Other Boardsports on their man-made lake. For adventure seekers, this is definitely a fun and exciting adventure sport that you can easily enjoy and even get hooked on.

Recommended by Noel of Travel Photo Discovery

Visit the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon

Although there are many things to do in Key West, there are certainly a number of attractions on this Florida road trip. One of my favorite stops on Marathon is the Dolphin Research Center (DRC). At DRC, staff work with dolphins on different behavioral and cognitive projects in an effort to better understand how dolphins think.

The animals aren’t in tanks; they live in natural seawater lagoons. During your visit, you may catch an interactive session where trainers work with dolphins and sea lions (yes, they have some of those too!). Be aware that none of the animals are forced to participate so it’s possible that session times and participation will vary.

I recommend giving yourself at least an hour at the DRC, although you could easily spend all day there. General admission for adults is $28 although they do offer other more interactive experiences at a higher cost. 

Location: 58901 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, FL 33050

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More marine life at Turtle Hospital in Marathon

Just with any other road trip, I love the endless freedom of just stopping wherever I want and do just the things that come up. Same was the case for my Florida road trip a while back. On my way to Key West, I read a sign indicating a turtle hospital. Being an avid diver, there was no way I was driving past it.

The Turtle Hospital is located in Marathon , and I highly recommend taking the time to tour through the facilities. The tours run between 9 am and 4 pm on the full hour and take about 1.5 hours. To take part currently costs $27 USD. Think of it more as a donation rather than an entrance fee.

Because it is a working hospital, you are not allowed to wander around without supervision, but believe me, you won’t regret joining the tour. The staff provides a lot of interesting background information about the hospital and its inhabitants.

We were allowed to visit an OR as well as the outdoor pools. This is where many turtles recover and to be then released. I’m sure you’ll like this educational visit on your road trip around Florida. 

Location: 2396 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Recommended by Viki of Chronic Wanderlust

Miami to Key West road trip: halfway there

Marathon is just over halfway from Miami Beach to Key West. So if you’re planning to take multiple days with this fantastic Florida road trip, you could stay in Marathon to break up the drive.

Seven mile bridge on Highway 1

Alright so this one’s an easy one. If you’re on the drive to Key West from Miami, this will automatically be included. 🙂 The 7-mile bridge is just that – a bridge that doesn’t touch earth (except under the ocean) for 7 miles. It’s one of the most fun sights along one of the best US road trips !

Right as you’re leaving Marathon Key, you’ll hit the bridge. Plan carefully – once you’re on the bridge there’s no turning back until you’re done!

Pro tip: stop at the Sunset Grille & Raw Bar to take photos of the 7-mile bridge before entering it. There’s also an entrance plaque on the opposite side of Highway 1, near the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail.

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Rest and relax at Bahia Honda Key

Bahia Honda State Park located on Bahia Honda Key at mile marker 37, is the perfect stop on your road trip from Miami to Key West.  Take a little swimming break at the pristine beaches in this park. Not only is the water calm and crystal clear, but there’s the Bahia Honda Railway Bridge that you can take a walk on for a great view of the beach.

We loved Calusa Beach in Bahia Honda for a quick dip to break up our long drive from Miami. The water here is the perfect turquoise, shallow, and placid. Making a great spot for relaxing and families with young children.  And you have a view of the Railway Bridge from this beach! 

The park is open from 8am to sunset and there is an $8 entrance fee per vehicle. The $8 is well worth it for such a beautiful beach! 

Recommended by Diana of Sea of Blush

You might also be interested in: Beach Vacation Packing Guide (Including a packing checklist) 15 Things to Pack on a Road Trip with Kids

More places to stop on the drive from Miami to Key West

There’s so much goodness coming from these bloggers…here’s a few more things to do on the drive to Key West from Miami.

Snorkel the reef at Looe Key

Right outside of Big Pine Key is a special place, perfect for snorkeling. Part of the Great Florida Reef, Looe Key is the spot in the Keys to spend a day snorkeling on these gorgeous blue waters.

You can take a tour to Looe Key to see the incredible reef. Swim with sea turtles, rays, colorful fish, small(ish) sharks and so much more!

Tip (not pro, just life in general): if your husband sees a reef shark while snorkeling, don’t let him grab the camera and swim after it. Arguments occur for years later…

Check out snorkeling tours at Looe Key here.

Pro tip: make sure you’re packing reef-safe sunblock for any water activities. This is my favorite snorkeling-approved sunblock that actually smells fantastic. You can get it on Amazon here .

Kayak the mangroves at Geiger Key (my favorite of all the places to stop on the drive from Miami to Key West)

One of the most amazing experiences I had on my road trip from Miami to Key West was my time kayaking in Geiger Key . Of all the places in the world I’ve ever kayaked, this was one of my most favorite!

Kayaking in the Florida Keys is special because you can kayak through islands of mangroves. Basically, mangrove trees make cave-like tunnels where you can explore nature at it’s finest.

While there’s many places to go kayaking in the Florida Keys, I especially liked Geiger Key because the water is so shallow near the mangroves that you can see a ton of interesting marine life. From star fish to jelly fish, horshoe crabs, sea sponges and a lot more.

Here’s the kayaking tour I took on my vacation and would highly recommend it!

Kayaking the mangroves is one of the best stops driving to Key West. If you’re staying in Key West for a few days, just a short drive to Geiger Key will allow you to take a break from the noise of the city and connect with nature.

Final destination on this Florida road trip: Key West

Key West is such a good time, I simply haaaave to include a few things to do in Key West during an epic road trip like this one. Here are a few of my favorites!

Rent a bike and drive down Duval Street

In Key West, rent a bike and explore this tiny island but filled with rich historical and cultural impacts. You could rent motorcycles or bycicles, depending on your style!

The streets on the island of Key West are in grids and it’s very easy to navigate. Seek out some of the most popular “southernmost” locations, from the southernmost point, the southernmost café, the southernmost hotel to the southernmost shop.

Duval Street is the main street with lots of restaurants, souvenir stores, and historic Art Deco buildings . Go for a movie at the historic movie theatre, and take pictures of the Goods Store, Joe’s bar, and many others. Stay alert as you are biking on the road as you will see a lot of chickens roaming on the sides!

After a good exercise, chill out in a roadside cade and you just have to taste the island’s signature dessert – the key lime pie. Only those authentic pies are white in color.

There are a couple of shops or hostels around Mallory Square with bike rentals. To finish your day, head to the waterfront and view one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Caribbean.

Recommended by Kenny of Knycx Journeying

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Tour and taste Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery

The 10 traffic lanes leaving Miami turned into 2 lanes. The highrise buildings replaced by one-story nautical boutiques, key lime pie selling restaurants and mangroves. And the noise of the city turned into a soft breeze and the birds singing – the color changes to green.  

On my drive to Key West from Miami, I only had 2 things on my list (well 3 if you count the Champagne); relax and tour Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery in Key West.

Ernest Hemingway has been a lifetime love for me. From running with the bulls in Pamplona to sipping wine in Venice, eating fresh-caught seafood in Key West, drinking rum, and reading his words, I have tried to be his top fan. I was over the moon to be able to tour the distillery during our visit to the Florida Keys.  

Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery, housed in an old tobacco warehouse, costs $10 per person. The behind-the-scenes tour takes about 30 minutes.  Then you get to taste not 1, not 2, but 3 shots of goodness.

And Papa’s Pilar Rum tasting did not disappoint. Try them all, the blonde, the dark, and then mix them – delicious, smooth as butter, sippable, fresh, and sweet like a birthday cake.  

Beyond teaching the creation of this lovely rum, Captain Kirk, our tour guide, told entertaining Hemingway stories and secrets. Fun fact: Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery is the only business in Key West that the Hemingway family is still involved in.

Location: 201 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040

Recommended by Jennifer of Traveling Party of 4

Visit the southernmost point in the continental USA

Probably the most photographed spot in all of Key West, the southernmost point is one of the top things to do in Key West. This concrete buoy is an insta-worthy photo opp, and quite the attraction.

During our week-long trip down the Florida Keys, we stopped by the famous landmark several times before grabbing a photo. There’s often long lines, so chose non-peak hours to avoid the wait.

Pro tip: Early in the morning or later in the evening is the best time to grab a pic with the shortest line. (Key West is a popular destination for cruises, which can mean thousands of people flood the island during the day.)

If you come during the off, season, like September, October or Key West is even one of the best places to visit in November , you may find shorter lines and less crowding vs. the summer or over winter or spring break.

Location: Whitehead St &, South St, Key West, FL 33040

Explore the popular Mallory Square and catch a sunset

Mallory Square has long been an area of commercial and social events in Key West. Today it is the hot spot for nightlife and entertainment, as well as one of the best locations to view the Key West sunset. Mallory Square has lots to offer visitors, including entertainment, shopping, social gatherings, great food and stunning views!

If you are visiting Mallory Square, the evening time is the best option as it will allow you to capture a gorgeous sunset. Mallory Square also comes to life with performers and entertainers , including performances such as a sword swallower, unicycle riders, musical performances, psychics, and or course refreshment stands offering tropical drinks and delicious snacks.

If you’re visiting with children, Mallory Square is also home to many great attractions that are located within or just outside the square, such as the Key West Aquarium, the Key West Shipwreck Museum, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum.

One thing that you must try while visiting Mallory Square are some key lime treats! Visit Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop near the entrance to Mallory Square for a variety of treats, including Key Lime cookies, Key Lime salsa, Key Lime taffy, Key Lime jelly beans, and of course Key Lime Pie.

Depending on what you want to do in Mallory Square, I would recommend at least 3 hours, but you could certainly spend half a day (or more!) in Mallory Square and it’s nearby attractions.

Recommended by Melissa of Navigation Junkie

Dine at Latitudes in Sunset Key

Sunset Key is a little private island off of Key West that has homes, a 4-star hotel and a restaurant. In fact, you can see it while watching the sunset from Mallory Square. You have to take a private boat to get there. And you must have reservations for the hotel or the restaurant to even get on the boat. 

That’s how I went to Sunset Key. I made reservations for their upscale restaurant, Latitudes. The trip over gives you views of Key West, as well as all around Sunset Key. I enjoyed a lovely lunch overlooking the water with the palm trees swaying.

The atmosphere is fantastic. Of course, I had a Key Lime Colada because you just can’t get enough of those when you’re in the Keys. After a relaxing lunch, walk around the island to check out Sunset Key Cottages, the 4-star hotel.

The boat back to Key West runs every 30 minutes. Dinners fill up well in advance, so get your reservations in early for that. So go, relax, you’re on island time now!

Recommended by Sonja of Happy Travel Bug

Day trip to Dry Tortuga National Park (Fort Jefferson)

One activity not to miss when visiting Key West is the Dry Tortuga National Park. You can get to the Island via charter boat, seaplane or a ferry, you can pick the one that best suits your budget.

The ferry seems to be the most popular option and they provide a continental breakfast and light lunch. It departs promptly at 8 am and returns around 5:15 depending on the water conditions. There is also an option to camp overnight on the island if you are adventurous. 

The Fort is full of history, you can take advantage of a 45 minutes narrated tour of just explore on your own with many photo opportunities. The ferry also provides snorkel gear or you can also bring your own and enjoy the beautiful water and sea life that calls that home.

Pro tip: snorkeling is beautiful at Dry Tortuga National Park but beware of jellyfish. It varies by day but the jellyfish can be overpowering so keep it in mind if you’re planning to get in the water.

Recommended by Patricia of Travel Fam Life

Enjoy key lime pie at Blue Heaven

Listen, I don’t really even like key lime pie but knew I had to try it in Key West. After all, it’s a staple on the island! But after venturing around town, finding the famous Highway 1 sign and almost getting swallowed by the huge Kapok tree, I ventured over to Blue Heaven to try a slice.

The verdict? It was fantastic! The delicious meringue-whipped heavenly delight melts in your mouth like no pie you’ve ever tasted.

One of the things I loved most about Blue Heaven was the vibe. It’s super casual, outdoor seating was relaxing as we enjoyed a cocktail on the island. Oh, and the free-roaming chickens give you plenty of entertainment while you eat your pie .

Location: 729 Thomas St, Key West, FL 33040

Miami Beach to Key West road trip – that’s a wrap!

This guide has gone through a few things to do in Miami, a few things to do in Key West, and a ton in between. From water activities to filling your belly, soaking in some history and marveling at marine life, there’s plenty of places to stop on the drive from Miami to Key West.

With vivid blue waters that will make you swoon and island breeze that the best vacations include, be sure to plan plenty of time lounging at the beach, too!

Get the perfect packing list for your next beach vacay!

Real quick: we all love the turquoise green water of the Florida Kays. But in recent years there’s been red tide, toxic algae blooms, seagrass die-offs and fish kills due to 150-year old decisions of water mismanagement in Florida.

Captains for Clean Water is trying to change that by providing education and funding for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan , which restores Florida’s natural waterways, and reduce these toxic (not to mention unpleasant) extreme algae occurrences. Consider supporting this non-profit to ensure future trips to the Florida Keys are enjoyable. (And bonus – they rate 80 by Charity Navigator , so give with confidence. 😊)

Alright so I want to know, what stops are your favorites on the list? Comment below with your must-do activities!

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Saturday 25th of September 2021

I just returned from Sarasota and now I want to go back and road trip to Key West. Great roundup.

Sunday 26th of September 2021

Ha thanks Terri! Driving the Keys is a gorgeous adventure!

Thursday 18th of March 2021

great post. I can't wait to go on a road trip there. It is an amazing place to visit. Thanks for sharing this content with us. I will plan a trip soon.

You're so welcome, Mellisa! The drive is incredible with tons to do. I hope you make it there soon!

Friday 19th of February 2021

This is the best keys guide I’ve found, thank you so much!! My husband has a work conference on Duck Key coming up and we decided to take our 3 daughters! I’ve been stress planning to find all of “the best” and looks like I’ve found most of them! Thank you!!!

Sunday 21st of February 2021

Aw I'm so glad you found this guide helpful! I hope you have the best time in Duck Key and the surrounding keys. This part of Florida is so much fun!

Jen Ambrose

Sunday 20th of December 2020

I've never been to Florida, but I really want to see Everglades NP - and those beaches look beautiful!

Yes, Jen! It's such an amazing spot on this earth! I hope you get to go soon :)

Saturday 19th of December 2020

I haven't explored this part of Florida as much as I would have liked to, so I''ll be referring to this post the next time I travel there for sure!

Oh I'm so glad it's helpful for you, Krista. The Florida Keys are such a gem!

Miami to Key West Drive: Florida Keys Stops, Stays + Map!

Visiting the Florida Keys is a classic U.S. vacation, with beaches, clear blue waters, and adventurous activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and camping.  One of the best ways to experience the Florida Keys is with a Miami to Key West road trip. Get tips on how to plan an itinerary that includes all the best of the Keys: quirky roadside stops, beautiful beaches, state and national parks, and waterfront bars and restaurants for sunset each night.

As far as road trips go, a Miami to Key West drive belongs on every bucket list.  You’ll follow the Overseas Highway, a 113-mile stretch of U.S. Route 1 which spans the coral and limestone islands of the Keys and connects mainland Florida to Key West. 

Driving to Key West lets you discover all the best sights, eats, and adventures of the Florida Keys along the way.  Experience amazing snorkeling in Key Largo, kayak and relax on the sandy beaches of Bahia Honda State Park, and watch the spectacular sunset in Key West — plus so many more things in between!

In this guide, I’ll share all the tips you need to plan a Florida Keys road trip, with drive tips, must-see sights, restaurants, and other fun stops along the way.  I’ll also suggest how many days to spend in each location and advice on the best places to stay on your Miami to Key West drive.

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

Pin this Miami to Key West Road Trip Planner for later!

In this guide to a miami to key west drive.

Planning Tips: When to Visit | How Long to Stay | Driving the Overseas Highway | Road Trip Map | Itinerary Overview  

Must-See Florida Keys Sights: John Pennekamp State Park | Bahia Honda State Park | Sombrero Beach | Turtle Hospital | Robbie’s | Duval Street | Key West Beaches | Hemingway House | Southernmost Point | Dry Tortugas National Park

Overnight Stops: Key Largo | Islamorada or Marathon | Key West

Miami to Key West Drive: Road Trip Planning

The Florida Keys is an archipelago of 800 tropical islands that stretches 120 miles off the coast of Florida. The Keys begin just south of Miami and continue to the uninhabited Dry Tortugas, one of the most remote U.S. National Parks. 

These vacation planning tips will help you make the most of your road trip adventure from Miami to Key West with quirky local spots, popular sights, and beautiful Florida beaches .

So get your road trip playlist and Instagram sunset captions ready — we’re going on a Florida Keys road trip!

In December I returned again to to the Upper and Middle Keys for a long weekend . See the Instagram Reel below of my Keys mini-road trip, and follow me for more adventures!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adrienne 🌎 Adventures + Photos (@thehaphazardtraveler)

The Best Time to Drive the Florida Keys

The Keys are one of the warmest and sunniest destinations in the United States, with average high winter temperatures of 75-80 degrees.  The best time for a Florida Keys scenic drive is between March and May, after the busy tourist season is over and when hotel rates are more reasonable. 

It’s best to avoid the peak hurricane season of August and September.

I just visited again in December and although we had some rain and clouds, the weather was warm and I got to do almost everything I wanted to!

The hottest months in the Florida Keys are July and August, with average high temperatures of 90 degrees.  June, August, and September are the months with the most rainfall.

Check weather averages for your visit on Holiday-Weather.com .

Transportation: Airports & Car Rental

The best airports to begin a Florida Keys road trip are the Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL), about 30 miles north.  I recommend checking both – there are often direct flight deals for me from D.C. to Fort Lauderdale on United that make it worth flying in there.

Car rental is available at both airports and both have rental car centers attached to the terminal, which really helps with getting your adventure started!

If you’re short on time, it’s usually possible to rent a car one-way for an extra fee.  In this case, you would pick it up in Miami and return it at the airport in Key West (EYW), or vice-versa.  When I last checked rates, this added around $100 to the weekly price with most of the major companies.

Check car rental rates : Alamo | Budget | Hertz | Expedia

How Long to Stay for a Florida Keys Road Trip

How does a month sound?  But seriously, I’d recommend at least a week to see the best of the Keys.  It’s a great way to extend a budget trip to Miami .

You can save time on your Keys road trip by paying extra for your car rental and only making the drive one-way.  If you have a little less time or a few extra days, I’ll include other options in the itinerary below.

I’ve also just visited the Upper and Middle Keys on a long weekend! I flew into Fort Lauderdale (there are often great flight deals here) and stayed in Layton near Marathon, exploring everything from Key Largo to Bahia Honda.

Driving the Overseas Highway | U.S. Route 1

The Florida Overseas Highway spans 113 miles and 42 bridges, connecting the mainland of Florida from Miami to Key West. 

Actually the southernmost leg of U.S. Route 1, the Overseas Highway (or Highway 1) follows a trail which began in 1912 when Henry Flagler extended his Florida East Coast Railroad to Key West. This railroad route ran until 1935, when the Keys sustained extensive damage from the strongest hurricane to strike the U.S.

A new highway was built to replace it by the end of the 1930’s, which paved the way for the Keys to become the tourist destination they are today.  In the 1980’s, 37 bridges were replaced with wider, heavier spans, including the most famous portion of the road: the Seven Mile Bridge at Marathon.

Known as the “Highway That Goes to Sea,” the Overseas Highway is a scenic drive.  Most sections of the road are well-paved, although there is currently some overnight construction near Islamorada (December 2022 – but it didn’t impact my trip much).

Straight through, it would take 4-5 hours to drive from Miami to Key West for the 160-mile trip.  The total time depends on traffic, since parts of the road are still only two lanes.  But there are many sights and stops along the way, making it a perfect leisurely road trip to spread over several days.

Overseas Highway Mile Markers from Miami to Key West

Mile markers along the Overseas Highway are often used as address locators. The highway ends in Key West at mile marker 0.  Other stops: Key Largo is mile marker 102, Islamorada begins at 90, Marathon at mile 60, and the Seven Mile Bridge at 47.

Restrooms/Rest Stops on Your Road Trip

There aren’t any rest areas along the Miami to Key West road trip route, but there are many restaurants and convenience stores that have restrooms available.  If you stop at any of the state parks, you might need to pay an entrance fee.

There is a visitor’s center run by the Chamber of Commerce on Key Largo, and a commercial visitor’s center for Key West located on Big Pine Key.

Gas Stations & Supplies

There are gas stations every few miles along the route through the Keys. The longest stretches in between are perhaps 10 miles, so just keep an eye on your fuel gauge.

Grocery Stores

You’ll also find grocery stores and smaller markets through the Keys. Some of the main grocery stores are:

• Key Largo: Winn-Dixie and Publix
• Islamorada: Publix and The Trading Post, a 24-hour market across from the Cheeca Lodge. *Note that you can buy Key Lime Pie Lady brand goodies here late-night
• Marathon: Winn-Dixie and Publix
• Big Pine Key: Tom Thumb and Winn-Dixie
• Key West: Winn-Dixie and Publix

In case you forget sunscreen, bug repellent, motion sickness tablets, etc. there are several chain pharmacies throughout the Keys. The larger grocery stores have pharmacies, as well as:

• Key Largo: Walgreens and CVS
• Islamorada: CVS
• Marathon: Walgreens and CVS
• Big Pine Key: Walgreens and CVS

Florida Keys Catamaran All-Inclusive

Want to explore the Florida Keys in a totally different way? Check out this luxury Florida Keys catamaran sailing experience !

Miami to Key West Drive Map

The map below shows the best sights for your Miami to Key West drive.  To see details, click the arrow on the top left to view the different layers.  You can scroll to see the different categories – stops, beaches and parks, more top sights, and restaurants.  You can also click each item on the map for more information.  Save the map by clicking the star after the map name – this will save it to your own Google Maps folder.

Miami to Key West Road Trip Itinerary & Stops

Use this overview to get an idea of the suggested number of nights for each destination, as well as must-see sights.  Keep reading for the full details on each step of the itinerary including more sights, restaurants, tours, and recommended hotels and Airbnbs.

Distance from Miami to Key West: 160 miles | Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours

Itinerary Length: 5-8 nights depending on selected sights & stays

Miami | Bonus South Florida Stop to Start Your Trip

Got extra time? If you haven’t visited Miami before, you should tack on a few days here at the start of your trip. Gorgeous beaches, non-stop nightlife, and luxe hotels have made it one of the most popular vacation spots in the U.S.

• Miami Beaches: Miami Beach has calm, crystal-clear water and soft sands, as well as cafes, sidewalk bars, and a boardwalk for strolling. South Beach is where the action is, with endless nightlife and celebrity-chef eateries. For a quieter spot, check out North Miami Beach, with its open-air bandshell and plenty of bars, restaurants and parks great for families.
• Wynwood Walls: Just minutes from Downtown Miami, this collection of giant wall murals covers six buildings. Wynwood Walls has become a famous Instagram spot thanks to famed artists from across the globe.
• Art Deco Historic District: Miami is famous for sleek, colorful architecture. But Miami is especially famous for its 1920’s and 1930’s Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach. It’s located between 5th Street and 23rd Street, along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and Washington Avenue
• Everglades National Park: If you want to explore this top 5 U.S. National Park, it’s best seen on a day trip from Miami or a a stop on your first day (turn south at Florida City). The 1.5-million-acre wetlands preserve is made up of coastal mangroves and marshes home to hundreds of animal species. Here you can spot leatherback turtles, crocodiles, dolphins, and perhaps even the Florida panther and West Indian manatee.

Upper Florida Keys: Miami to Key Largo – 63 miles, 1 hour

Stay in Key Largo: 1-2 nights

Top Sights: Robert is Here | Alabama Jack’s | John Pennekamp State Park | Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen

Middle Keys: Key Largo to Marathon – 47 miles, 1 hour

Stay in Islamorada or Marathon: 2-3 nights

Top Sights: Diving Museum | Rain Barrel Village | Robbie’s | Turtle Hospital |Sombrero Beach | Bahia Honda State Park

Alternatively, you can combine the first two stops and use Islamorada as your base for exploring the Upper and Middle Keys.  Islamorada is only about 30 minutes from Key Largo and 35 minutes from Marathon.  I did this so that I could get a weekly vacation rental, and it worked out great.

I’ve also stayed in Layton, between Islamorada and Marathon, to explore the Upper and Middle Keys.

Lower Florida Keys: Marathon to Key West – 50 miles, 1 hour

Stay in Key West: 2-3 nights

Top Sights: Key West Lighthouse | Ernest Hemingway House | Key West Butterfly Conservatory | Duval Street | Smathers Beach | Mallory Square | Southernmost Point Marker | Dry Tortugas National Park

Key Largo | Miami to Key West Drive First Stop

Key Largo is the first stop on a Miami to Key West road trip, and is most famous for its world-class diving and snorkeling.  It’s accessible via U.S. Route 1 or the Card Sound Bridge – take the slightly longer Card Sound toll route if you want to stop at Alabama Jack’s bar.

Key Largo is also known for watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. To the west on the mainland lies Everglades National Park.  Read on for the best things to do in Key Largo for your Miami to Key West road trip, as well as a variety of options for where to stay, including family-favorite Baker’s Cay resort .

Top Key Largo Sights

Robert is here | homestead, florida (mainland) fruit stand.

This family owned fruit stand has been around since the 1950’s and is located on the mainland of Florida. It all began when Robert’s dad, a farmer, set him up with a roadside table to sell cucumbers and a sign declaring “Robert is here.” 

Well, Robert is still here, and from those humble beginnings has built a fruit mecca and tourist destination.  In addition to hundreds of exotic fruit varieties, there’s an animal farm, kids’ play area, famous milkshakes (including key lime, of course), and a band on weekends.

Itinerary priority: Add if you have extra time and want a classic Florida experience.  It’s the perfect place to pick up fresh produce and also a good stop if you’re on a longer road trip.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 19200 SW 344th St, Homestead, FL 33034

Alabama Jack’s | Classic Key Largo Biker Bar

This biker/tiki/dive bar (yes, that’s a lot of slashes!) is found in the town of Card Sound.  It’s been around since the 1950’s and has become a traditional first stop in the Keys for many road trippers.  Alabama Jack’s has the reputation of the best conch fritters in the Keys, cold beers, and friendly service.

On the weekends the house band, Card Sound Machine, has played in the afternoons for over 30 years.  Alabama Jack’s closes at sunset, perhaps so you’re not carried off by mosquitoes from the nearby swamps.

Itinerary priority: Add this if you have extra time and want a classic quirky Keys experience.  Be sure to take the toll road headed out of Miami or Homestead.

Facebook | Google Maps | Address: 58000 Card Sound Rd, Key Largo, FL 33030

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park & Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-see as the first underwater state park in the U.S.  It includes 70 nautical square miles of the Atlantic. The famous “ Christ of the Deep ” statue is here, an 8 foot tall sculpture sunk 25 feet deep. 

You can also snorkel from the shore at John Pennekamp, canoe or kayak, or take a glass-bottom boat tour. Cannon Beach is one of the most popular spots.

The adjacent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary extends 2,800 square nautical miles from Key Biscayne in the north down to Dry Tortugas.  Experienced divers can take an excursion to the artificial reef of the sunken USS Spiegel Grove.  

Itinerary priority: Must-see.  Key Largo is a world-class snorkeling and diving destination and one of the top sights on a Miami to Key West road trip.

Website | Google Maps | 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Tours: In December, I went on this half-day tour with Silent World Dive Center . They have a snorkel-only boat (which I prefer — you don’t have to wait for divers to get in and out of the boat with all their equipment), and the staff was super friendly, knowledgeable, and professional! More top-rated tour options with online booking: | Half Day Snorkeling | Private Snorkeling Tour | Half-Day Scuba Tour

African Queen Canal Cruise | Key Largo Excursion

Yes, that African Queen – from the 1951 movie starring Humprey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn!  Relocated from Africa and restored, the iconic boat now cruises the waters of Key largo offering canal and dinner cruises.  There are several departures daily, and on weekends you can take a dinner cruise with roundtrip transportation to the Pilot House Marina. 

Itinerary priority: A quirky addition for classic movie buffs.

Website | Address: 99701 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

The Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary in Tavernier is a center for wildlife rehabilitation, and is home to over one hundred resident birds who cannot be returned to the wild.  See rescued hawks, owls, vultures, pelicans, gulls, songbirds, and more. Visitors can learn about the birds and the ecosystems of the Florida Keys.

Itinerary priority: This is a quick stop – less than an hour – interesting for nature and wildlife lovers.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 92080 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070

Where to Eat & Drink in Key Largo

Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen   Iconic Key Largo favorite with kitschy decor, fresh seafood, and some of the best coconut shrimp and key lime pie in the Keys (try it yourself to see if you agree!).  There are two locations on the Overseas Highway – the first is the original and closes mid-afternoon. The second, a few blocks away, is larger and has more parking and seating.

Caribbean Club   Classic dive bar and Key Largo tradition with amazing sunset views

Pilot House Restaurant   Local favorite overlooking a marina with fresh seafood and a tiki bar vibe

Sundowner’s Key Largo Seafood eatery with a glass dining room and outdoor waterfront seating

Where to Stay in Key Largo | Top Accommodation Picks

Check out these top picks in the Key Largo area for your first stop from Miami to Key West.

Best Key Largo Hotels

$ Gilbert’s Resort | Budget waterfront stay with pool, private beach, tiki bar and views. Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$ Sunset Cove | Rooms and cottages close to sights; some pet-friendly rooms, breakfast, kayaks, and private beach.  Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$$ Coconut Palm Inn | Resort in Tavernier with rooms and suites, breakfast, and thoughtful service touches.  Pool, private beach, kayaks. Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$$$ Kona Kai | Luxury adults-only resort and botanical gardens in Tavernier. Spa, hot tub, heated pool, tennis in a spectacular setting. Check rates on Booking.com

Key Largo Vacation Rentals

Looking for more space or a local stay? Check out these Key Largo area vacation rentals.

Islamorada | Second Keys Road Trip Stop

Islamorada is a village made up of 6 of the Middle Keys, and the halfway point between Miami and Key West.  It’s known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” thanks to its bounty of options for professional fishing charters with experienced captains. 

There are many choices of mid-range to luxury resorts in Islamorada, as well as shopping, restaurants, sights and eco-experiences. 

During one of my Keys road trips, I stayed here as a base for exploring everything from Key Largo to Marathon.  Read on for the best things to do around Islamorada on your Miami to Key West road trip!

Top Sights In the Islamorada Area

Rain barrel village.

This quirky stop is a garden oasis with shops, galleries, and boutiques.  Spend a few hours and grab a snack at the local eateries too.  You’ll want to get a selfie with its iconic giant lobster named Betsy!

Itinerary priority: A fun stop, great for souvenirs and Instagram ops.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 86700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

History of Diving Museum

For divers and adventurers, the History of Diving Museum is a cool stop for your itinerary.  Explore more than 4,000 years of diving history (yes, really) from breath-holding divers to early diving machines and helmets to the revolutionary invention of SCUBA.  Includes the world’s largest collection of diving memorabilia.

Itinerary priority: A well-done museum and a must-see for diving aficionados.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 82990 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Robbie’s | Islamorada Restaurant, Bar & Activities

Robbie’s is a fun waterfront restaurant and bar with a bonus: from its dock, you can feed tarpon fish which grow up to 8 feet. The trick is avoiding aggressive pelicans and trying not to scream when the tarpons jump to snatch the fish!  Robbie’s is also a spot for booking local fishing charters and other excursions.

Itinerary priority: A great photo spot and place to book local tours.  If you’re afraid of fish bigger than you are, skip that part.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Holiday Isle Tiki Bar at the Postcard Inn

Calling tiki bar lovers and cocktail connoisseurs! You’ll want to make a stop at the Tiki Bar at the Postcard Inn to see where the Rum Runner was invented. 

Legend has it that in 1972, the bartender Tiki John was tasked with creating a cocktail to get rid of excess inventory.  He mixed banana liqueur, Meyers rum, brandy, and grenadine. And behold – the Rum Runner was born!

Itinerary priority: A must-see for tiki and cocktail connoisseurs. It’s been restored and the resort itself is very upscale; if you prefer your tiki bars a little less flashy, try nearby Lazy Days .

Website  | Address: 84001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Where to Eat & Drink in Islamorada

Florida Keys Brewing Company | Tasting room and beer garden with a fun vibe and pretty courtyard. Try a flight of local beers and get a growler to go. A must for beer lovers!

Morada Bay | Luxury dining at Pierre’s; casual fare at its Beach Cafe, perfect for drinks, dinner, and sunset on a white sand beach

Marker88 | This restaurant has been a Keys tradition since 1967, and offers beachfront dining and amazing sunsets

Lorelei Cabana Bar | Seafood Restaurant known for conch and stone crab chowders, mahi fish tacos, and gorgeous sunsets

Islamorada Brewery and Distillery | Distillery and brewery with a beer garden with food trucks and local music. Try their key lime pie frozen cocktail!

Where to Stay in Islamorada | Top Accommodation Picks

$ Sunset Inn  Trendy, family-friendly budget stay with pool, close to sights. Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia  

$$ Lime Tree Bay Resort   Studios, rooms, and 2-3 bedroom suites, some with kitchenettes. Beachfront with pool and breakfast.  I loved my stay here – I had a studio with a kitchenette overlooking the water. Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$$ Islander Resort   Stylish resort with private beach, 3 pools, lanais, many amenities. Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$$$ Cheeca Lodge  Luxury resort with spa, golf course, pools, tennis, private beach. Plus there’s a 24-hour grocery store across the street. Check rates on Booking.com   |  Expedia

More Islamorada & Marathon Stays

Marathon | miami to key west drive stop.

The Florida Keys city of Marathon is made up of 13 islands, and is known for beaches, fishing, and a barrier reef. Marathon is a mini archipelago of its own.

Marathon is actually made up of East and West Sister’s Island, as well as a collection of smaller keys, like Boot, Knights, Hog, Vaca, Stirrup, Crawl, Little Crawl, Deer, Fat Deer, Long Pine and Grassy Key.

Find out the best things to do in Marathon for your itinerary, including turtle conservation, snorkeling and nature experiences.

Top Marathon Sights for Your Road Trip

Sombrero beach.

Sombrero Beach in Marathon is a calm public beach perfect for swimming.  There are restroom facilities here as well as picnic shelters with grills, and plenty of room to spread out on its long white sand beach. 

From April through October, loggerhead turtles nest here, so you might see some small areas roped off to protect the eggs.  

Itinerary priority: This is a great option for a beach day if you stay at a hotel that isn’t beachfront – bring a cooler with what you’ll need for the day, and pick out a spot to relax. I think it’s also one of the nicer beaches in the Keys, which are known for rocky rather than sandy coastlines!

Website | Google Maps | Address: Sombrero Beach Rd, Marathon, FL 33050

The Turtle Hospital 

This small non-profit organization is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of endangered sea turtles. Visit on a guided tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at their hospital facilities and see their turtle rehabilitation tanks close-up! 

The entrance fee and gift shop support their rescue efforts.  It’s very popular, so be sure to make a reservation.

Itinerary priority: This is a Florida Keys must-see. It’s a great family activity and unforgettable experience!

Website | Google Maps | Address: 2396 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge begins around mile marker 47 and connects Knight’s Key in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. 

This is the most iconic portion of the Overseas Highway, frequently featured in movies about the Keys.  You’ll get spectacular views of turquoise water reaching all the way to the horizon.

A section of the old original bridge has been restored for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. This is a great place to watch both sunrise and sunset. A parking lot on the southbound side also has a waterfront park with shelters for picnics.

This is a must-see, obviously, as there’s no other road to Key West!

Bahia Honda State Park | Bahia Honda Key

Bahia Honda is one of the islands of the Keys, and is home to a namesake state park.  It’s possible to visit here on the day that you drive to Key West, since it’s located past the Seven Mile Bridge around mile markers 38.5-36.

Be sure to visit its three beaches. Turn right when you enter the park to get to Calusa Beach and Loggerhead Beach, located near the concession shop and the Old Bridge. Or turn left and drive past the camping areas to reach mile-long Sandspur Beach.

Other activities at Bahia Honda include snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, biking, and spotting birds and wildlife. Limited campsites are available. There are picnic shelters and tables throughout the park, as well as restrooms in the beach and camping areas.

The hiking trail on the southwest end of the island leads to the top of the Old Bahia Honda Bridge, and has spectacular views of the island and the waters below.

Itinerary priority: Bahia Honda State Park is a Florida Keys must-see for your road trip!  Bring a picnic lunch and spend a few hours here.

Website | Google Maps   | Address: 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

National Key Deer Refuge

The endangered Key Deer is the smallest subspecies of the North American white-tailed deer. Poaching and habitat loss had reduced their numbers to only a few dozen animals by the 1950’s. Luckily, the establishment of this Refuge allowed for protection and a dramatic recovery.

The deer now number close to a thousand, 75% of which are concentrated on Big Pine and No Name Keys.  Stop at the visitor center for information and drive slowly through Big Pine Key or hike to spot them.

Itinerary priority: This is an interesting addition for nature lovers and photographers.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 30587 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Where to Eat and Drink in Marathon

Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House | Fine dining favorite of tourists and locals

Fish Tales Market & Eatery | Seafood market and restaurant serving local seafood, burgers, sandwiches, salads

Lighthouse Grill | Waterfront restaurant and bar with a menu of fresh seafood and local favorites

Sweet Savannah’s | Bake shop and ice cream spot serving a variety of desserts including key lime pie with an outdoor garden

Irie Island Eats | Hidden local gem with carry out and outdoor seating past the Seven Mile Bridge

No Name Pub | Quirky, iconic Keys bar with pizza, chili and bar food on Big Pine Key

Square Grouper | Highly-rated foodie favorite with fresh seafood, small plates, desserts, and microbrews with a waterfront view on Cudjoe Key

Where to Stay in Marathon | Top Accommodation Picks

$ Coconut Cay Resort | Colorful budget hotel with a pool, mini-fridge, microwave, kayaks. Check rates on Booking.com |  Expedia

$$ Seascape Resort & Marina | Midrange beach resort with kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles, mini-fridges, microwaves | Check rates on Booking.com |  Expedia

$$$ Isla Bella  | Luxury resort with rooms and 1-2 bedroom suites, some with kitchenettes. Beachfront with pool, spa and restaurants. Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$$ Tranquility Bay Resort  | Luxury resort with rooms and 2-3 bedroom cottages. Beachfront with pools, spa and restaurants. Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

Key West | Florida Keys Road Trip End

Although Key West might be the final stop on this Florida Keys road trip, the fun is just beginning! Famed for its beaches, water sports, nightlife, and pastel “conch-style” architecture, Key West packs a lot into its 7 square miles. 

It’s also at the southern end of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which extends Key West’s playground with adventurous snorkeling and diving opportunities.  

Read on for the best things to do here and save time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park, the top day trip from Key West!

Top Sights and Things to Do in Key West

Duval street.

Duval Street, and specifically its 6-block stretch within the Key West Historic District, is the epicenter of Key West’s famous party atmosphere.  You could spend your entire time in Key West exploring its galleries, shops, boutiques, restaurants and bars. 

Be sure to check out Sloppy Joe’s Bar , a hangout of Ernest Hemingway and host to the “Papa Look Alike Contest” in July.

Itinerary priority: This is a must-see in Key West!

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is a waterfront plaza at the end of Duval Street, adjoining the seaport. With shopping, restaurants, bars, and the best place in Key West to see the sunset, be sure to save time in your itinerary for this spot!

Itinerary priority: This is an iconic place for sunset, so try to add it if you can.

Website | Google Maps   | Address: 400 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040

Smathers Beach | Best Beach in Key West

Located on the south shore of Key West, Smathers Beach is the island’s longest and calmest beach, with nearly a mile of soft white sand and palm trees.  It’s a public beach, with chair rental and food trucks available.

For more beaches, you can also check out Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

Itinerary priority: Add it to the list if you haven’t yet had enough beach time and won’t be able to see Dry Tortugas.

Google Maps | Address: 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

Southernmost Point

This simple but iconic monument is located at the southernmost tip of the continental U.S., 90 miles north of Cuba.

Itinerary priority: If you don’t have a photo here, have you even been to Key West?

Google Maps | Address: Whitehead St &, South St, Key West, FL 33040

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

The Hemingway Home was the residence of American writer Ernest Hemingway in the 1930s. Located across from the Key West Lighthouse, the Hemingway House is the most popular tourist attraction on the island. 

Legend has it that its many celebrated polydactyl (6-toed) cats are descendants of one that Hemingway owned.  The cats have the run of the home and gardens.  If you have time, visit the lighthouse across the street for the best views of Key West.

Itinerary priority: The Hemingway House is a must-see for history and literature buffs, as well as cat lovers.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Take a break from Duval Street and walk among hundreds of butterflies & birds including flamingos in this glass-enclosed conservatory.  In the learning center, you can explore butterfly migration and science, then look for butterfly souvenirs in the adjoining gift shop.

Be sure to wear bright colors if you want the butterflies to land on you!

Itinerary priority: It might sound nerdy but I loved it, so I’m going to rate this one a must-see.

Website | Google Maps | Address: 1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040

Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip

Almost 70 miles west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park.  Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is the home of historic Fort Jefferson, crystal clear blue waters, coral and marine life, and a vast assortment of bird life. 

Get my detailed guide for a Dry Tortugas day trip or camping here .

Itinerary priority: Dry Tortugas is a bucket-list destination as one of the most remote U.S. National Parks.  If you’re out of time or money on this trip, you’ll have to save it for your next Key West visit!

Websit e | Google Maps | Ferry terminal address: 100 Grinnell St, Key West, FL 33040

Dry Tortugas National Park: Day Trip, Snorkeling & Camping

Planning a trip to Key West? Be sure to include a visit to Dry Tortugas, one of the least-visited U.S. national parks for pristine beaches, spectacular snorkeling, and even camping.

Take in History at the Truman Little White House

Harry S. Truman vacationed here under orders from his doctor that he take a warm vacation.  He also had friends, cabinet members, and foreign officials visit for fishing trips and poker games. 

Truman set up shop there for 175 days of his presidency from 1946 through 1952, which gave the circa-1890 naval site the name “The Little White House.” The surrounding neighborhood, known as Truman Annex, is a leafy shaded area with parks and vacation homes.

Address: 111 Front St, Naval Air Station Key West, FL 33040 | Website | Google Maps

Where to Eat and Drink in Key West

Captain Tony’s Saloon | Old school pub dating to 1851

Blue Heaven   | Quirky, iconic spot with Floridian-Caribbean cuisine & key lime pie.  Located in a tropical plant-filled garden where Hemingway once officiated boxing matches

The Flaming Buoy Filet Co. | Steak & seafood spot in a funky tropical space

The Stoned Crab | Top Key West eatery specializing in fresh seafood including stone crab and lobster, plus cocktails 

Key Best Pizza and Coffee  | Affordable family-friendly spot with the best pizza on the island

Better Than Sex   | Key West dessert restaurant with a speakeasy atmosphere

Where to Stay in Key West | Top Accommodation Picks

Key West has a wealth of accommodation options for every traveler, from budget and luxury stays to clothing optional resorts . There are also Airbnb rental homes in the traditional Key West “conch-style” architecture.

Old Town is the best place to stay for first-time travelers and for proximity to sights, restaurants, and nightlife.

All of the resorts below offer parking; although most hotels in the historic district add an extra charge for this, since space is limited.

$ Blue Marlin Motel  | Bright budget stay with a pool in a great location. Parking available for an extra daily fee.  Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$ Harborside Motel & Marina  | A top midrange Key West pick with pool, kitchenettes, and free parking.  Check rates on Booking.com | TripAdvisor

$$$ Havana Cabana  | Resort style hotel with pool, bar, restaurant and fun vibe. Hourly shuttle to Duval and free parking.  Check rates on Booking.com | Expedia

$$$$ Southernmost Beach Resort  | Luxury resort in historic Old Town with pools, restaurants, spa, and private beach. Parking available for an extra daily fee. Check rates on Expedia

Don’t miss my guide to the best rentals and Airbnbs in Old Town Key West – from budget options to luxury stays for a group.

Airbnb Key West Florida: Best Rentals with Pools & More!

Planning a Florida vacation? Get tips on the best Key West Airbnb stays for solos, couples or groups of any size: honeymoons, families, bachelorettes & more!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

Miami To Key West - 7 Amazing Places To See On Your Road Trip

Are you interested in driving from Miami to Key West? We offer plenty of great ideas for your Key West road trip . As you navigate the scenic Overseas Highway in South Florida, you will see plenty of natural and urban attractions. Here are seven destinations to explore in the lower keys and upper keys for your personalized Key West drive.

A tour we think you'll love

1) Everglades National Park

When taking a road trip from Miami to Key West, you should incorporate Everglades National Park into your itinerary. As the beginning points for your Key West Drive, Route 1 and State Road 9336 will lead you directly to the iconic national park.

You’ll find plenty of fascinating stops along the way for this Key West road trip. Be sure to stop at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center en route to the park. You can also check out the HM69 Nike Missile Base and Long Pine Key Nature Trail along the way.

When kicking off your road trip to the Florida Keys, you should be aware of some other highlights of the famous national park:

Largest subtropical wilderness in the United States with more than 1.5 million acres

World Heritage Site

Guided airboat tours and eco tours

Ranger-guided tours by foot

Flamingo Visitor Center, Shark Valley Visitor Center, and Gulf Coast Visitor Center

Alligators, manatees, herons, and other native wildlife

Mangroves, swamps, and other unique wetlands

2) Key Largo

As you continue your Miami to Key West drive, you should surely check out Key Largo. Part of the Upper Keys, this community is home to several prominent natural attractions. You can enjoy some hiking on scenic trails at the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park.

If you drive farther down the Overseas Highway in Key Largo, you will run into the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which has one of the state’s most beautiful coral reefs. Likewise, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is one of the top attractions in Key Largo.

When taking a Key West road trip through this community, be sure to check out some other must-see destinations. For instance, Harry Harris Beach and Park is one of the largest public beaches in the entire Florida Keys. A Florida road trip through this key should lead you to aura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, which is home to an array of native and migrating birds. As a major stopping point for a road trip to Key West, this particular community is home to several resorts and inns just off the Overseas Highway.

Pay close attention to each mile marker leading to this large community in the upper section of the Florida Keys. In fact, the Florida Keys Visitor Center – Key Largo Chamber of Commerce might be your most helpful resource for finding great food, lodging, and other travel-related information.

3) Islamorada

Consisting of six distinctive keys, Islamorada is another major destination for a trip between Miami to Key West. Of course, the iconic Overseas Highway passes through the heart of all islands in this quaint community. As a major hub for off-shore charter fishing, the area naturally has plenty of marinas and other related facilities.

There is also a large concentration of restaurants, bars, and shops along the Overseas Highway that links all six keys in Islamorada. As you gradually complete your Florida Keys road trip , be sure to check out the following parts of Islamorada:

Florida Keys Brewing Company – Historic microbrewery with a large selection of craft beer

Founders Park – An urban park with sports facilities overlooking scenic Cotton Key Basin

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park – Remains of a former quarry used to build the Overseas Railroad with funding from Henry Flagler

History of Diving Museum – Educational exhibits on diving and water sports for kids and adults

Theater of the Sea – Featuring dolphin and sea lion shows

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park – Ideal for kayaking, paddling, and water sports

4) Curry Hammock State Park

Situated on mile marker 56 for a road trip from Miami to Key West, Curry Hammock State Park is a true paradise. This quiet park overlooks the shallow turquoise water of the Atlantic Ocean. From kayaking and fishing to hiking and picnicking, the state park offers lots of fun outdoor activities en route to a Key West drive.

When you stop at the park during a road trip, you won’t see a whole lot of residential or commercial developments. This green space is actually located on an uninhabited island. Therefore, the local animals take refuge in the mangroves and other protected habitats at the park. Spanning approximately 1.5 miles, the main nature trail at the state park also provides plenty of shade against the blazing sun on a hot afternoon.

After relaxing and recharging at this waterfront park, you could confidently continue your Florida Keys road trip.

5) Marathon

Located roughly halfway between a drive from Miami to Key West, Marathon is another notable destination for tourists. Consisting of several keys, the community is home to lots of quaint inns, hotels, and other lodging venues with family-friendly amenities.

You’ll also find some of the finest dining options in the entire Florida Keys at the Marathon Key area. When planning your Florida Keys road trip, be sure to check out the lodging choices on the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean sides of Marathon. You can find a spacious suite or cozy multi-bedroom home for rent for your Key West drive.

In fact, the iconic Seven Mile Bridge roughly marks a good stopping point for an overnight stay. Here are some other top highlights of Marathon:

Major destination for anglers

The thriving fishing industry with a large selection of locally caught lobster and stone crab

More than 1,200 wet slips and other marina facilities

Home to Florida Keys Marathon International Airport

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters with interactive activities for visitors

Cocoa Plum Beach and Sombrero Beach open to the public

6) Bahia Honda State Park

Located on the southwestern end of the legendary Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park is one of the most popular sightseeing points for your trip from Miami to Key West. Home to lush palm trees and crystal-clear turquoise water, the state park is a true paradise for tourists in the Florida Keys.

Mile marker 37 roughly defines the western end of the famous park for your road trip. You can even rent kayaks and snorkeling gear directly at the waterfront park. Here are some other fascinating insights on this state park for your Key West road trip:

Uninhabited island covering 524 acres

Perfect for viewing sunsets and gazing at stars

Buttonwood Campground, Sandspur Campground, and other campgrounds

Scenic hiking on the Old Bahia Honda Bridge

Home to wading birds, bottlenose dolphins, and sea turtles

Loggerhead Beach, Calusa Beach and Sandspur Beach

Multiple cabins available for rent

7) Big Pine Key

As you almost complete your excursion from Miami to Key West by car, you should stop at the Lower Keys. In fact, Big Pine Key is one of the largest and most developed communities in the region. The community is located approximately between mile marker 29 and mile marker 33 for your Key West road trip.

From gas stations and grocery stores to banks and restaurants, Big Pine Key has plenty of commercial businesses for your needs during a Key West drive. Here are some attractions on the island:

Big Pine Key Park

Horseshoe Beach

National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center

Pine Channel Nature Park

Blue Hole Observation Platform

Save The Best For Last At Key West

As you approach the final destination of a trip from Miami to Key West, you will see plenty of amazing attractions. Your Key West road trip will end in one of the most popular tourist destinations of South Florida.

From historic sites and quaint beaches to charming hotels and vibrant entertainment venues, the island has plenty of great amenities. You can even rent premium cottages on the small Sunset Key island, which is only accessible by boat.

When you finally reach Key West, start exploring the following sites and activities:

The Southernmost Point in the continental United States

South Beach and Smathers Beach

Bars, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues on Duval Street

Authentic Key Lime pie from local businesses

Key West Aquarium

Museums, street performers, and shops at Mallory Square

Ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park

You could end your Key West drive with some fun activities, such as kayaking on the local shallow water. Key West Paddle offers unique kayaking tours at night. You can get on a special kayak with an illuminated bottom for great visibility of the surroundings.

The Night Kayak Tour allows you to explore the local mangroves and other beautiful landscapes at a slow pace.

Book your night kayaking tour in Key West today!

Night Kayak Guided Tour

Get a single or double glass-bottom kayak illuminated with lights and follow our tour guide on this one of a kind, unforgettable and simply magical adventure.

This slow paced, immersive, and very relaxing experience will allow you to see some cool, active at night marine life as you are gliding through crystal clear waters of Key West.

Guests will experience going through narrow mangrove tunnels at night, floating around shallow and calm waters as the tour guide will look for interesting critters for everyone to see.

Key West Sandbar Trip

Key West sandbars are our local well kept secret. This is where we take our families to hang out and relax on our days off. This is the perk of our island lifestyle. Now we want to share this experience with you.

Turquoise shallow waters, epic picture worthy sights all around you that look like a postcard - that is what you're signing up for!

Plan a Magical Miami to Key West Road Trip

Has the drive from Miami to Key West long been on your family bucket list, but you’ve never quite made it?

A tropical paradise famous for its dreamy turquoise waters and outdoor adventures in the sun. The southernmost point in continental USA, the Florida Keys offer an exciting mix of state and national parks, beautiful beaches, and lively entertainment.

Whilst not one of the longest road trips in the USA , it’s definitely one of the most beautiful and dramatic and undisputedly the most scenic drive in Florida .

Time to pull out your planner, here we’re going to talk you through exactly how to plan your Florida Keys road trip with the best attractions and perfect accommodation stops from Miami to Key West.

This page contains links to our recommended affiliate partners. If you make a qualifying booking using our links we make a commission at no extra cost to you.

What is the Distance Miami to Key West?

The shortest distance from Miami to Key West is 166 miles. The Overseas Highway (Florida City to Key West) section of the journey is about 90 miles long.

The Overseas Highway connects 43 of the nearly 800 islands of the Florida Keys.

You will, of course, want to make plenty of stops along the way which will add to this total distance. A direct drive to the very tip of the Florida Keys from Miami to Key West, without heavy traffic, will take you approximately 3.5 hours.

To help you deal with the “are we there yet” chorus, make use of the prominent Mile Markers that count down to 0 at Key West!

How Long Do I Need in the Florida Keys?

This is entirely up to you! You may prefer to choose a central location along the keys and stay for a whole week, just making day trips, or if taking on this itinerary one stop at a time, you could allow at least 3 to 5 days.

We’d suggest splitting your time between the Lower, Middle, and Upper Keys to experience everything that’s on offer.

Best Time of Year to Drive Miami to Key West

The weather in the Florida Keys is warm all year round with a subtropical climate. Expect summer highs around 75 to 90 degrees. The coldest month is January, still tapping in at a mild 74 degrees.

The best time of year to road trip the Florida Keys is Winter and Spring – with the optimal months being April and May when the crowds are lower but before the summer heat feels a little oppressive!

Spring Break is very popular but also crowded and the most expensive time to visit the Florida Keys.

From June to November is Florida’s hurricane season – peaking around late August to October. It’s certainly not impossible to visit at this time, but do expect rain showers and humidity.

The greater issue for family road-trippers is if something does go wrong, it is really quite remote. However, the “good thing” about hurricanes, is you can usually get pretty good advanced information. You should normally get enough warning if storms are severe enough you need to evacuate the area.

Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip

The Florida Keys are well known as a tropical paradise. Though the sandy beaches here aren’t quite as soft and white as other parts of Florida or the Caribbean, it’s still an outdoor-lovers paradise. There are plenty of adventures still to be had in the water and at the many fun roadside stops – making it an ideal family road trip destination.

Use this guide for the best stops in the Florida Keys from Miami to Key West to help plan your family adventure filled with fun in the sun!

Everglades National Park

Before you hit the Florida Keys, your journey south of Miami takes you right to Everglades National Park, one of the most popular national parks on the east coast .

Known for its unique wildlife, Everglades National Park is a must-see when you’re in the south of Florida . Famous for airboat rides it’s the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, perfect to visit in winter .

Everglades is also a World Heritage Site , International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance , and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty

Whilst airboat tours with authorized operators are undoubtedly a highlight, they’re not the only way to see and experience this incredible national park. Why not try canoes or kayaks, tram tours, or bike rentals?

Always a great way to start your outdoor adventure when road tripping the Florida Keys with kids.

Got a Fourth Grader in the family? See how you can make this fun and exciting stop for FREE!

As one of the most famed destinations in the area, Key Largo is the perfect tropical paradise to start your trip along the Florida Keys.

Many will want to race straight to Key West, but if you want an escape from hectic city life and you’re interested in diving and snorkeling then Key Largo is the perfect stop for you. We love that there are so many outdoor things to do in Key Largo, along with hidden restaurants and shops to explore.

A visit to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is one of the best things to do in Key Largo . Famously the country’s first undersea park, not only will you get amazing views of the coral reef and tropical fish but you can also see the Christ Of The Abyss statue.

Key Largo is famous for its marinas, tackle shops, and of course, all the amazing diving and snorkeling opportunities – we love that you can snorkel right off the beach at John Pennekamp State Park, or take a tour out to a reef.

Another popular dive spot for advanced divers is Spiegel Grove Shipwreck.

If snorkeling and diving aren’t your thing, then try a glass-bottom boat tour or paddle boarding, or simply enjoy the sunshine under the palm trees of Harry Harris Park & Beach.

Some suggested tour operators in Key Largo:

Traveling with kids, you’ll want to add to your itinerary a stop in at Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park , a shady 2.4-mile trail full of birds and butterflies.

You can also stop for free (though a small donation is appreciated) at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center to learn more about the bird species of the Florida Keys.

Plan to stay at least a night or two in Key Largo before continuing your Miami to Key West journey.

Islamorada is a beautiful stop that covers six of the “Middle Keys” of the Florida Keys.

Here you can enjoy up-close encounters with dolphins and view a real treasure chest from the 16th century at the History Of Diving Museum – a great stop for a slice of Florida Keys history.

Next, head to Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park to see the fossilized coral reef, or stop to shop at one of the many fun and quirky shops around Rain Barrel Village – a great spot for picking up any beach wears you need and souvenirs.

If you’re interested in marine life then the Theater Of The Sea is a must-visit while in Islamorada. Here they offer all kinds of interactive exhibits including swimming with dolphins and meeting sea turtles.

Don’t miss a lunch stop at the Florida Keys Brewing Company ! Think not just brews in the garden but fun garden games and live music. There’s also a taco truck making it a great family day out in the sun.

At Mile Marker 67.5, Long Key is a tranquil haven for swimming, kayaking, bird watching or simply relaxing on beautiful shorelines with a picnic at Long Key State Park .

Covering both oceanside and bayside, the area was badly devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017 but much work has been done to restore the native mangroves and popular ocean camping facilities in the park. Waking up with the views of the turquoise water of the keys will feel like a dream, an ideal stopping point for nature lovers.

You’ll find two hiking trails within the park giving you a chance for close-up encounters with plants and the animals that call the Keys home.

You can bring your own kayak or rent one from the Ranger station to paddle along the beautiful shorelines and see a wide variety of wildlife.

In the Middle Keys, you’ll find one of the lesser-known islands, Grassy Key. Located between Marathon and Islamorada, it is one of the most laid backed and relaxed keys, often overlooked.

Here, you can rent a boat for fishing, and snorkeling and you are only a short drive or boat ride from Marathon if you need any supplies.

Stop by the Dolphin Research Center where they rescue and rehabilitate dolphins. This nonprofit center offers many educational programs including swimming with rehabilitated dolphins.

Make sure to catch the incredible sunset from the beautiful shoreline of Grassy Key.

Marathon is one of the major stops on your Florida Keys journey from Miami to Key West. The city encompasses an impressive 13 small islands and has a more urban feel than some of the other more remote spots.

While it may have a more urban feel, there’s still an incredible range of outdoor activity options including beaches, barrier reefs, spotting loggerhead turtles, and a Natural History Museum .

An incredibly popular stop for families is the Turtle Hospital for a unique opportunity to learn about the process of rehabilitating injured sea turtles. Learn about the different species of turtles that live in the Keys, and the damaging effects of human behavior. Make sure to book these tours in advance as they do book up fast!

Marathon is also known as the sport fishing center of the Middle Keys, for the full experience arrange a charter for deep-sea or reef fishing.

For swimmers, Sombrero Beach is one of the best beaches on the Florida Keys. The beach park has a great playground for kids and you’ll find a few small waves here too. Not so great for snorkelers but perfect for paddling and soft sand – just what you expect of a “normal” Florida beach!

Marathon is also the starting point for walking the Seven Mile Bridge , one of the most scenic and famous parts of the Florida Keys drive. The third longest bridge in the USA connects Knight’s Key, Bahia Honda Key, Big Pine Key, and Duck Key.

Bahia Honda Key

If you are looking for a quiet and secluded family getaway then Bahia Honda Key is perfect for you. The palm-lined beaches, clear turquoise water, and awe-inspiring sunsets will have you relaxed in no time.

This small but exceptional island in the Florida Keys is known for Bahia Honda State Park , which contains the gorgeous Calusa Beach – among the most beautiful in the USA!

One of our favorite stops, the state park encompassing over 500 acres offers some of the best snorkeling and beachcombing in all of Florida. Note, due to the park’s huge popularity, if day-use parking reaches capacity, it will close. Day parking fee $8 .

If you’re looking for a bit of adventure try chartering a boat trip to the reef for a snorkeling excursion. Or rent a kayak, paddleboard or snorkeling gear to explore at your own pace.

If you’re visiting in around April/May you may catch the hammerhead shark migration.

Camping is available here at Loggerhead Beach on the Atlantic side and Calusa Beach on the Florida Bay, but do note spots are notoriously hard to come by! Some areas remain closed for rehabilitation.

Big Pine Key

Big Pine Key, located about 30 miles north of Key West, is perfect for those who love nature. One of the larger islands, this Key is full of relaxing water activities such as boating, fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. You’ll also find some of the best and freshest seafood on Big Pine Key.

Visit the National Key Deer Refuge where you’ll get to see this miniature species of deer thrive. An endangered species only found in the lower Florida Keys, this is a unique wildlife opportunity, protecting over 400 acres.

Check out the Blue Water Hole , a freshwater lake located in a former quarry if you are interested in spotting alligators and turtles.

Little Torch Key

This lush island gets its name from the torchwood tree and was a frequent fishing destination of President Truman.

If you’re looking for a bit of adventure try exploring the colorful coral reef at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary .

Explore the downtown area in search of museums and boutiques or that next delicious meal. Little Torch Key is also home to one of the best exclusive luxury resorts in all of the Keys – Little Palm Island Resort And Spa .

Key West is the end of Highway One and by far the most popular spot in the Florida Keys and for good reason!

On your final road trip stop, there are so many things to do in the beautiful and tropical paradise of Key West – a Caribbean island vibe, particularly spring break. It is a beautiful city to get out and tour on foot after your long drive.

Most will start with a visit to Duval Street for museums, souvenir shops, galleries, and cafes. This lively street is also home to some of Key West’s best historical attractions including the Ernest Hemingway Home And Museum (aka the cat museum), Strand Theater, and the Southernmost House.

Check out Mallory Square and lively Old Town Key West for the nightly sunset celebration. Here, entertainers and vendors gather to create a festive atmosphere for visitors enjoying the iconic Key West sunsets.

Kids will love the beautiful Key West Butterfly And Nature Conservancy which provides the unique opportunity to mingle with 60 species of stunning butterflies.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is one of the most beautiful beach parks, and a great snorkeling spot, while Rest Beach and Higgs Memorial Beach are great for wildlife spotting

Parking is crazy expensive when you get to Key West so park up at your accommodation. If not touring on foot, the best way to get around Key West is by bike. Another fun and unique way to see the town and learn about Key West’s history is to ride the Conch Train , hear stories about the city and get on and off at different points.

And yes – you simply have to queue up for your turn to have a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy “home of the sunset”!

Dry Tortugas National Park

Wait, there’s more AFTER you finish the Ocean Highway?! Roughly 70 miles west of Key West you’ll find one of the most remote national parks in the US, Dry Tortugas National Park.

Only accessible by seaplane or boat, this archipelago of seven small islands covering 100 square miles is home to Fort Jefferson, a 19th Century fortification that takes up the entirety of one of the small islands.

Dry Tortugas is a favorite among divers and snorkelers for both its spectacular coral reef, as well as enormous shipwrecks to explore. For the best snorkeling spots make sure to stop at Historic Coaling Pier or Garden Key’s Coral Head.

Park entry is $15USD per person valid for 7 days (free with your 4th Grader Pass , or invest in the America the Beautiful pass). Ferry tickets include entry to the park, whilst arrivals by seaplane need to pay upon arrival or have a pre-paid digital pass .

The Ferry, Yankee Freedom , departs delay from Key West at 8:00 AM and takes approximately 2 hours 15 minutes to reach Fort Jefferson. Your return ferry departs at 3:00 PM.

You can also arrange private tours to the national park with authorized operators from bird watching specialists to snorkeling and diving tours, eco-tours, and guided fishing.

Accommodation in the Florida Keys

We have mentioned a few resorts and hotels along the way, but it’s important to note there are all types of accommodation in the Florida Keys. You’ll find everything from resorts to boutique hotels as well as camping grounds and RV parks.

We suggest splitting your accommodation between Lower, Upper, and Middle Keys and spending at least a night in each. You’ll want slightly longer in Key West if you’ll be making the long day trip out to Dry Tortugas too.

• Key West is a walkable and bustling place, full of boutique hotels, whereas Key Largo is more relaxed resorts, kayaking, and snorkeling. Both can be equally incredible, just know what you’re getting, especially when traveling with kids!
• Airbnb or VRBO can be great too for Florida Keys accommodation, but may require a minimum stay; they tend not to work out as economical for a family if you’re just overnighting, once you add cleaning fees and charges, but great if you want to settle somewhere for a week or two.
• Use this map to see a wide range of accommodation options across online platforms compared for best prices:

Camping in the Florida Keys

11 State Parks can be found in the Florida Keys, though only four offer camping –

• Bahia Honda State Park
• Curry Hammock State Park
• John Pennekeamp Coral Reef State Parks
• Long Key State Park

These camping spots should be booked online in advance.

For RVs there are several options, try:

• KOA on Sugarloaf Key
• Sunshine Key RV Resort
• Boyds Key West Campground – the southernmost in the USA!

More Tips For Road Tripping in Florida

• Want to combine Key West with a Disney trip? Key West is around 6 hours from Orlando. Whilst its a long way with kids in the car, it is doable to get from Orlando to Key West in a day – we’d suggest breaking it up by stopping in Key Largo though, then slowly making your way down the Keys.
• A lot of the Ocean Highway is single lane, this will slow you down, so sit back, relax and take in the views!
• Gas stops can be found frequently en route at most of the larger keys. Larger grocery stores are found on Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West.
• For a bit of road trip fun, keep your eye out for Wyland Whaling Walls – artworks can be found along the Miami to Key West drive.
• Beaches in the Florida Keys aren’t as pristine as other beaches in Florida, this is not one of the state’s ultimate white sand beach destinations! The waters here are good for snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and other water sports – but just set expectations if you’re planning a beachy Florida vacation!
• Bugs are an unfortunate problem in the Florida Keys. Take plenty of bug spray and bite treatment with you.
• Starting your journey further north? Don’t miss our complete road trip guide from New York City to Florida . It’s “only” an extra few hours to tag this Miami to key West itinerary on to the end!
• Never forget an important road trip item again! Use our Ultimate Family Road Trip checklist to prepare for your journey

The Florida Keys is truly a unique part of Florida with a distinct vibe. Far from your typical beach trip to Florida, you will find it culturally enriching and packed full of nature experiences, snorkeling opportunities, and other water adventures. Take your time to absorb the best of the Florida Keys!

© Family Road Trip 2024

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