key west road trip itinerary

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.

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

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.

Perfect 5 Day Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary (Miami to Key West Drive)

Are you looking for the perfect Florida Keys road trip itinerary? We got you! We enjoyed an epic 5 days driving from Miami to Key West (and back) passing through destinations like Key Largo and Marathon on this leisurely Florida Keys drive.

The Florida Keys is without a doubt one of the best paradise and road trip destinations in the United States, the epitome of the “American Dream vacation,” with its azure waters, breezy tropical sunsets, colorful buildings, and plenty of places to have a cold drink on a hot Florida day.

We have put together a suggested itinerary on how to spend your Florida Keys road trip and Miami to Key West drive based on our own experiences to help you plan an incredible vacation. You can easily adjust some of the activities on this itinerary to customize it for yourself if you’re interested in different options as we picked our highlighted activities and Florida Keys road trip stops based on our own experiences!

We wanted to highlight some of the best natural activities to do including businesses and organizations that have efforts in protecting and helping their community and environment. You can read more about the sustainable Florida Keys activities in our other guide.

Your Florida Keys road trip itinerary starts and ends at the Miami International Airport (MIA) since this is the best airport to fly into to enjoy the best stops on the Miami to Key West drive. Although, since we don’t spend any time in Miami, you can technically refer to this as a Key Largo to Key West drive since Key Largo is just 60 miles from Miami and the beginning of your journey.

Use this guide to help you plan your Florida Keys road trip and picture yourself cruising down a long and winding coastal road with the sun shining bright overhead, casting sparkling reflections on the crystal clear waters below. 

As you make your way through the Florida Keys down to Key West on a road trip, you’ll encounter an endless array of breathtaking views and exciting experiences that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. 

From exploring the charming seaside towns like Islamorada and Key West featured on this Florida Keys itinerary to embarking on thrilling water sports adventures like snorkeling and jet skiing, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found along this beautiful stretch of scenic highway. 

You may even catch a glimpse of some incredible wildlife, from majestic manatees lounging in shallow bays to playful dolphins leaping out of the waves and sea turtles who call these warm waters home. 

And let’s not forget about food! The Florida Keys are home to some truly amazing cuisine, from fresh seafood caught right off the coast to mouthwatering key lime pie!

So whether you’re seeking adventure or looking for some much-needed R&R, a road trip through the Florida Keys has something for everyone. Get ready to soak up all that this stunning destination has to offer – your next unforgettable adventure awaits!

Table of Contents

Things to know before visiting the florida keys, day 1: miami to key largo, day 2: around key largo and islamorada, day 3: drive to key west with stops along the way, day 4: key west activities, day 5: key west to marathon.

Before embarking on your Florida Keys road trip and Miami to Key West drive here are a few things to know before you go to help you plan a great trip.

• Highlights on this Florida Keys road trip itinerary from Key Largo to Key West include:
• Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (the first protected underwater preserve in the US)
• Driving on the Seven Mile Bridge
• Get close to birds of the Florida Keys at Florida Keys Wild Bird Center
• Feed Tarpon Fish and get on the water at Robbie’s of Islamorada
• Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum + its collection of polydactyl cats in Key West
• Sampling the flavors of the Florida Keys on a food tour in Key West
• Visit the Southernmost Point of the Continental US!
• Visiting historic landmarks and nightlife in Key West
• Visit Sea Turtles at a rescue and rehabilitation center
• Relaxing on beaches next to some of the most beautiful water in the US!

Renting a Car For Your Florida Keys Drive

We recommend preparing for your rental car in advance for Miami International Airport (MIA). Getting to the car rental places at the airport is easy. 

Once you collect your baggage you follow the signs to the MIA Mover that takes you to where the car rentals are.

We recommend booking your car rental in advance with Expedia.

Before purchasing car insurance be sure to check with your credit card company to see if it already included in your perks. If you do have rental car insurance coverage with your credit card, be sure to check to see if you need to have a letter from the credit card company proving your insurance so you don’t end up getting pressured into buying the insurance you don’t need on the spot.

Some rental car companies require this letter proving coverage from your credit card company which is easy to get with a phone call but you need to come prepared.

Florida Keys Road Trip Mile Markers

On your drive to Key West you’ll be driving along what is known as the Overseas Highway , a 113-mile route that takes you from Key Largo to Key West. Much of the Overseas Highway was actually built on a former railroad and has seen the wrath and damage of hurricanes over the years. By the 1950s this had become the popular route to drive from Miami to Key West and embark on a Florida Keys road trip!

Another interesting fact, once you start your Florida Keys road trip itinerary and drive from Miami to Key West you will notice that there’s alot of talk about Mile Markers . These Mile Markers indicate the location or address in reference to the number of miles north of Key West’s Mile 0.

As the address numbers get smaller, this indicates the further south you’re going closer to Mile Marker 0.

For example, the first stop on our itinerary is Kona Kai Resort Gallery & Botanic Gardens. Their address is 97802 Overseas Hwy. Their street number indicates they are 97.8 miles away from Key West.

Once you get to Key West you can take your photo with the famous Mile Marker 0. These Mile Markers can also indicate how far of a drive it is between your planned stops.

With Google Maps now you don’t need to calculate the Mile Markers yourself but it’s a fun little tidbit of knowledge to know on your drive from Miami to Key West.

Reef Safe Sunscreen

The Florida Keys can be hot and the sun is strong down here! This goes without saying, but you need to come prepared with sunscreen. If during your Florida Keys road trip, you plan on getting in the water we urge you to use reef safe sunscreen. Did you know that most sunscreens are filled with chemicals that are toxic and harmful to the environment?

Two harmful chemicals often found in sunscreen are oxybenzone and octinoxate that contribute to coral bleaching. Other harmful chemicals include petrolatum and titanium dioxide.

Shockingly, finding reef safe sunscreen along your Florida Keys road trip isn’t so easy and may require multiple stops, so we urge you to come prepared with your own. We have picked out a few you can purchase online in advance to prepare for your trip below.

Many reef safe sunscreens require a bit more time to ‘apply’ as there is often zinc in the sunscreen, and some even leave a faint white appearance after applying to your skin. We found Thinksport to be one of the easier reef safe sunscreens to apply. Also, if you apply a small amount at a time it’s much easier to apply!

When’s the best time to visit the Florida Keys

The best time to visit the Florida Keys is in the winter months, this is the most popular time because the weather is the most comfortable and people are escaping their cold weather homes to visit one of the best warm winter vacations in the USA .

The spring months are a good time to visit the Florida Keys before the temperatures get too hot and humid and there are way fewer crowds and lower room rates than in the popular winter months.

Hurricane season is between June and November so its a gamble to travel during this time.

Be sure to also check out our guide for the best places to stay in the Florida Keys to help you plan your trip!

Back to the Top

On your first day on the Miami to Key West drive, we are recommending you stop at Key Largo to explore the northern Keys extensively. We have recommended where to stay as well as some great activities to enjoy.

We recommend spending some time in Miami before your trip, even if it’s just an afternoon. We recommend checking out the colorful Miami neighborhood of Wynwood if you only have time for one stop!

Kona Kai Resort Gallery and Botanic Gardens

Address: 97802 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo

(~ 63 miles or 1 hour 15 minutes drive from MIA to Key Largo)

Our first stop on our Florida Keys road trip itinerary is a place for rest and relaxation in paradise. There’s nothing more taxing on the body than flying and we like to take it easy on days that involve flights because they suck so much of our energy out of us.

Start your Florida Keys itinerary at Kona Kai Resort Gallery and Botanical Gardens in Key Largo made up of individual cottages on the waterfront. We are recommending using this resort as your base for the next two nights as we explore our days 1 & 2 Florida Keys itinerary attractions.

This boutique property not only has individual charming, beachy cottages for its guests located in a botanic garden but also a gorgeous waterfront location perfect for catching a sunset.

You will find little lizards and iguanas running around the botanic garden as you make your way to the beach on the walkway. The small botanic gardens here are actually one of only two frost-free tropical botanic gardens in the continental US!

With your stay, you get free access to kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and paddle boats . There’s also a pool and hot tub for swimming. Along the water, you can find a dock for sunbathing, sunset watching, and hammocks under the swaying palm trees to relax.

Each of the cottages at Kona Kai Resort Gallery and Botanical Gardens comes with a fully equipped kitchen, so if you do like to cook on vacation you have this option but there are plenty of incredible seafood restaurants nearby.

We recommend spending the first afternoon after flying and driving relaxing by the waterside here with your drink of choice before kicking off the rest of your Florida Keys road trip. Book Now on Booking.com

Dinner at Sundowners

Address: 103900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo

One of the most popular spots in Key Largo for dinner and sunset is Sundowners restaurant. The restaurant has a full bar and a menu full of local fish dishes located right on the water in the Florida Bay. 

This is only a 15-minute drive from Kona Kai Resort, so we ate dinner here before sunset and made it back to Kona Kai’s quiet dock for a more romantic sunset!

On day 2 of our Florida Keys road trip we recommend continuing to explore the northern Keys including Key Largo and Islamorada before continuing the road trip to Key West.

Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Address: 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo

One of our favorite highlights and first stop on our Florida Keys road trip itinerary involves some of the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys! The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first underwater preserve in the United States protecting the Florida Keys barrier reef, the only reef system in the continental US.

John Pennekamp State Park includes mangroves you can walk through, seagrass beds, beaches to hang out on,  and the underwater barrier coral reef system you can witness by snorkeling.

Visitors can enjoy walking through the mangroves on a trail, hanging out on the beaches, snorkeling, scuba dive, and kayak. This is a protected area with wildlife, so you will definitely see iguanas basking in the sun, fish, and perhaps even crocodiles just by hanging out around the coastline near the visitor’s center.

We highly recommend reserving a snorkeling tour in advance for one of their multiple snorkeling tours throughout the day. The snorkeling here is very popular and during peak season you will definitely need a reservation.

We went on a snorkeling tour to the Key Largo dry rocks where you can snorkel among the coral reef with tropical fish and visit the Christ of the Deep underwater statue, a 4,000 lb bronze statue placed underwater in 1961. 

You can snorkel right up to the statue as the hands reaching above his head are just a few feet below the surface of the water. However, we highly recommend not touching the statue as there is fire coral all over the statue which you will be sorely sorry if you touch.

You can spend a bit of extra time exploring the rest of the park before or after your snorkeling trip before heading off to the next suggestions on our Florida Keys itinerary. 

Bring Your Own Reef Safe Sunscreen

Remember at the beginning of this Florida Keys road trip guide where I mention reef safe sunscreen? Shockingly, the visitor center didn’t sell reef safe sunscreen on our visit so you will need to come prepared yourself and plan in advance.

We have picked out a few you can purchase online in advance to prepare for your trip. You can see our suggestions earlier in this guide for the Florida Keys road trip itinerary.

Lunch at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen

Address: 99336 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo (the second location is just further south by maybe 2 minutes)

A local restaurant everyone loves and worth a stop on your Florida Keys road trip itinerary is Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen. This kitschy joint has two locations just down the road from one another, we recommend trying to stop at the original location at 99336 Overseas Highway unless they are too full and you’re starving.

The original location is much smaller and has the old-school charm to it that made it a local favorite. Inside you will find license plates covering the floor to ceiling on the walls donated by guests who visit. This just goes to show how popular of a place this is that people plan to visit with their own license plate to decorate the restaurant!

The menu offers everything from seafood to comfort food and the Florida Keys’s signature dessert, key lime pie!

This restaurant gained so much popularity they were forced to open a second location down the street. This building itself was made for Instagram painted in pastel pinks and other fun colors. This location is much larger and better for bigger groups or if the line or wait is too long at the original.

We highly recommend saving room for dessert and getting a slice of their key lime pie!

Beer Tasting at Florida Keys Brewing Company

Address: 81611 Old Hwy, Islamorada

We love our beer and couldn’t do a perfect Florida Keys itinerary without stopping at least one of the breweries in the area. The Florida Keys Brewing Company is the first brewery in the north Keys and is a perfect place to stop for a cold refreshing beer on a hot day and our first stop on your drive to Key West in Islamorada!

They have a gorgeous tropical beer garden with fans outside that’s a great place to hang out in the early evenings or inside their colorful tasting room where there is a huge selection of their beer to try on tap.

We recommend trying a flight of beer so you can sample a few different of their specialty beers. They have quite an assortment and many infuse some tropical ingredients that are unique to the Florida Keys.

Something we love about this brewery is they often have a limited edition beer on tap that goes towards a local cause. During our visit they had a Double Hibiscus Kolsch made with local honey. Part of their sales go towards the nonprofit organization the Mote Marine Laboratory who is working on the Florida Keys disease outbreak known as the Coral Tissue Loss Disease that has coral mortality rates of 80% putting their reefs at risk of extinction.

We love that they are using their beer and the love of beer to help support local causes. It’s not often you get to drink for a cause! 

Sunset and Dinner at Morada Bay Beach Cafe

Address: 81600 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada

Our last stop for the day on our Florida Keys road trip is at Morada Bay Beach Cafe . This is the perfect place to unwind after a fun day in the Florida sun and have a delicious meal right along the water under a canopy of palm trees swaying in the tropical wind.

This restaurant and hotel has a gorgeous location right on the water and is the perfect place for a sunset. Dine with your toes in the sand or if it’s too hot you can sit in the indoor area with a waterfront view.

The atmosphere here is inviting and a fun place to enjoy a gorgeous slow sunset over dinner. They have a great variety of fresh seafood dishes. Stick around and enjoy a drink on the sand too.

This location was also used as a filming location for the television series, Bloodline .

After spending a few great days in the northern Florida Keys we recommend making a few stops on your drive to Key West on your Florida Keys road trip itinerary including lunch that doubles as a place for some great water activities before arriving to Key West.

Along your drive from Key Largo to Key West on the Overseas Highway you will cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge that’s completely surrounded by water. The famous Seven Mile Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the world, spanning seven miles across open water from Marathon to Little Duck Key.

The original bridge which you can see running parallel to it was the most famous because of its narrow lanes passing over a large body of water. It was a dangerous road that required alot of attention when crossing it and has a 2.2-mile section that is now only open to pedestrians and cyclists.

The modern bridge is much safer for vehicular traffic and is absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime experience to drive along a road like this where you’re surrounded by gorgeous blue water below.

Florida Keys Wild Bird Center

Address: 92080 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier

Continue your Miami to Key West drive on the Overseas Highway stopping at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center . This is a family-friendly activity where you get to see and experience all kinds of wild bird species while your visit helps fund this wild bird rehabilitation facility to help release injured birds back into the wild.

There are two different facilities here, the Mission Wild Bird Hospital where they accept injured birds and rehabilitate them for release, and the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary where the injured birds who couldn’t fully recover and thrive in the wild have their new permanent loving forever home.

The Mission Wild Bird Hospital is for staff only but there is an education center and gift shop here. We highly recommend visiting The Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary to see all kinds of wild bird species that now call this a forever home. The birds you find here are ones that were injured and couldn’t fully rehabilitate and thrive in the wild on their own.

You can learn a bit about each of the birds here including their name and the backstory of how they ended up here.

There is no set admission for visiting the Wild Bird Sanctuary, but they do recommend a $10 donation per person, or what you can give. This facility and program is a completely nonprofit organization and they keep helping birds from donations from visitors.

We personally fell in love with Booby. He is a masked booby bird who had a bold personality during our visit. It turns out he is a little local celebrity because a few years back the Florida Keys Brewing Company had a limited edition beer named after him and a portion of the proceeds come back to help fund the Wild Bird Center.

What’s great about visiting stops like this along your Florida Keys road trip is that just by visiting you are helping the cause and rehabilitation for animals by paying a small fee.

There are all kinds of interesting birds who are here that you’d probably have a very slim chance seeing in the wild, we highly recommend this stop on your Miami to Key West drive.

Lunch and Outdoor Activities at Robbie’s of Islamorada

Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada

Our next stop on our Florida Keys road trip itinerary includes another local favorite spot! Robbie’s of Islamorada not only has a great restaurant to eat at but they have all kinds of water activities to enjoy as well as an outdoor shopping market full of fun finds and local souvenirs. 

Depending on your arrival time we recommend getting lunch first at the Hungry Tarpon restaurant. This waterfront restaurant and bar is in a prime location on Lower Matecumbe Key. We recommend the fish tacos!

While you’re eating you can’t help but notice the people gathering on the dock feeding the tarpon fish. Grab a bucket of small fish and feed the giant tarpon right in the water outside the restaurant! Don’t worry, you won’t be feeding and befriending fish that they serve at the restaurant. No one eats tarpon fish because they are too bony.

The whole backstory and legend of the tarpon fish feeding tradition here goes back decades. The owner of Robbie’s saw an injured tarpon fish where its jaw had been sliced open from a hook. He and his friend stitched him up and took care of him in a tank until he was able to be released back into the water. They called him Scarface because of the big gash in his jaw.

When they released Scarface he didn’t just go away and live on his own, he left and came back with a ton of his friends and now they still feed them. Or that’s at least what they claim the legend to be.

If you still have more time for fun in the sun here you can always check out parasailing, jet ski rentals, kayak or stand-up paddleboard rentals, or just shop around before finishing the drive from Key Largo to Key West.

Drive and Settle in to Key West

Continue your Florida Keys road trip by making your final stop at Key West. Depending on what time you arrive we recommend checking in to your hotel first.

We stayed at the Perry Hotel Key West . This location is a bit outside of where all the action is in Key West, but the hotel property is gorgeous and located right on the water. They have Vespa scooters for rent, a free shuttle that goes to downtown Key West, or since you have a car on your Florida Keys road trip then you have the option to drive yourself.

Book on Expedia.com | Check out rates on Hotels.com

If you prefer to stay closer to town and walking distance to everything we recommend trying one of the gorgeous properties available. Southernmost Beach Resort is a beautiful 4-star hotel located near the southernmost point of the continental US marker!

Dinner at First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery

Address: 301 Whitehead St, Key West

After completing your Key Largo to Key West drive and are continuing on your Florida Keys itinerary, we recommend getting settled into your hotel then heading out to enjoy dinner at this historic location/great restaurant and brewery!

First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery is located in the building where the first PanAm international ticket was sold and the birthplace of Pan American World Airways in 1927.

You can see traces of aviation history here if you look closely as well as artifacts around the restaurant deor. They have their own beers on draft here and a delicious menu of seasonal dishes.

We loved the canopy garden seating in the evening too as it had a tropical atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re really on vacation.

A Florida Keys itinerary wouldn’t be complete without spending at least an entire day enjoying all the incredible things to do and see in Key West . We are going to list some of our favorite activities to enjoy on Key West to pick and choose what you’d like to see.

All of these attractions we mention in this guide are within walking distance from one another. If you find yourself tired of walking you can always use the free Duval loop shuttle to get you close to all the locations you’d want to visit.

The Hemingway Home and Museum

Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West

Easily one of my favorite stops on our entire Florida Keys road trip was the Hemingway Home and Museum . Did you know that Ernest Hemingway spent 10 years of his life here in Key West? His old home is now a museum open to the public, but it’s not just the prolific author’s home that attracts visitors.

The Hemingway Home is famous for having its collection of polydactyl cats who live here to this day. During Hemingway’s years in the house, he started with one cat with extra toes and in its peak had between 50-60 cats on the property.

To keep the tradition alive, the museum keeps that many polydactyl cats on the property where they live their lives like the royalty they are at one of the most famous and nicest houses in Key West.

The cats are as much of the history of this house as Hemingway himself. I could have spent all day here!

There are 30-minute guided tours often, but you don’t need to join one to enjoy the property. The admission is $14 for adults and $6 for kids, be sure to bring cash as they do not take credit cards.

Forgot cash? There are ATMs near the Hemingway House & Museum at 724 Duval Street and another at 1075 Duval Street.

If you’re a huge Hemingway fan, check out this Hemingway’s Life and Local Food Walking Tour which takes you to various landmarks that were important to Hemingway in Key West while eating local specialties along the way!

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Address: 1316 Duval St, Key West

Another great stop in Key West is the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory . What looks like a house on the outside is actually a butterfly conservancy and tropical garden with little critters from birds to butterflies. 

Walk through the tranquil tropical gardens while witnessing some of the most beautiful tropical creatures who are inside.

There are also two rescued flamingos who call this conservatory home that are a treat to see up close in person!

General admission tickets are $15 with lower rates for seniors, military, and kids, children under 3 get in for free. Keep in mind the last admission is at 4:30 PM so plan your visit to this awesome Florida Keys attraction accordingly.

Southernmost Cultural Food & Walking Tour

If you’ve followed our blog long enough you know how we feel about food tours. We LOVE THEM! This is one of the best ways to try a bunch of different local dishes/restaurants and learn the history of where you’re visiting.

The Key West Food Tours journey is 3 hours long stopping at some of their favorite local spots to eat from Cuban cuisine to a great rum bar with a history dating all the way back to the prohibition.

This is a great way to spend lunch during your Florida Keys itinerary stop in Key West, be sure to secure a reservation in advance. They also offer cocktail tours if that’s more up your alley!

Southernmost Point of the Continental US

Address: 1400 Whitehead St, Key West

A road trip to Key West wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Southernmost Point in the Continental USA! This is one of the most popular photo spots in Key West at the Southernmost Point Buoy.

You’ll surely see a line here waiting to get a photo unless you come early in the morning. This spot signifies the southernmost point in the continental United States, but if you are a person who really likes to focus on technicalities, the actual southernmost point is located a few blocks over on private property and is inaccessible to visitors.

Walk down Duval Street

Easily the most iconic street in Key West is Duval Street. This is where you will find tons of bars and shopping in what feels like the Bourbon Street of Key West.

This commercialized street connects the Southernmost Point to Mallory Square with plenty of places to stop along the way if you want to drink, dine, or shop.

A few highlights on Duval Street include:

• Grabbing a drink at bars like Hog’s Breath Saloon or Green Parrot Bar
• Explore the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
• Join a Key West haunted pub crawl tour through Duval Street
• Ride the famous Conch Train which takes you through historic stops like Duval Street while learning about the history of Key West and its attractions!
• Embark on the Ghosts of Key West walking tour on Duval Street and learn the haunting history of Key West and see Robert the Doll!

Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

This waterfront square is another great stop in Key West on your Florida Keys road trip. There are outdoor and indoor shops, museums, and waterfront outdoor entertainers who gather here. This scene gets lively in the evenings, especially during peak season and is a fun place to gather.

Along the water from two hours before sunset until sunset is known as the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square.  This is when all the performers come out and where many gather to enjoy the sunset together. It’s actually an official thing here!

And while you’re here, if you’re interested in shipwrecks and the treasures on old ships, check out the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum which is located right here too, this museum is filled with treasures found from shipwrecks off the Florida Keys and Key West!

Truman Little White House

There are many famous historic homes in Key West, you’ll notice this as you’re walking around and see a plaque for many different houses explaining who lived there and why it’s a historic landmark. One of the most famous, besides the Hemingway Home is the Truman Little White House .

This was the winter home for Truman during his presidency. Truman wasn’t the only US president who used this house though, Taft, Kennedy, Eisenhower, Carter, and Clinton all used this home during their presidency as well used as a facility and a vacation home.

There is a museum inside if you wish to learn more, if not this is just a fun stop while wandering Front Street, one of the most gorgeous streets to walk down filled with historic homes and lush greenery.

The Key West road trip section is now complete, now that we spent time doing all the spectacular activities offered here we recommend spending your last days making your way back up to Miami for your departure and complete your Florida Keys road trip itinerary with more fun stops along the way.

We stopped in Marathon which is an hour north of Key West and another beautiful place to stop on your Florida Keys itinerary.

You can spend the morning in Key West and head towards Marathon around lunch time. This would also depend on what time your appointment is at the Turtle Hospital. If you’ve had enough of Key West we recommend scheduling in some extra downtime relaxing at the resort we recommend staying at in Marathon.

Breakfast at Blue Heaven

Address: 729 Thomas St, Key West

Don’t leave Key West just yet, you need to try one of the most famous brunch spots in the Florida Keys. Blue Heaven is located on the best foodie street in Key West, Petronia Street (and the corner of Thomas Street) and is a crowd favorite.

This place is steeped with island history from being a place where Hemingway himself attended the boxing matches, being a brothel, to a cock fighting location. While this place is far from that today, you can still see traces of its history if you look closely, it is said you can see the peep holes in the building for those who used to come for the brothels.

This jungle garden hang out spot gives you the chance to eat with the sand beneath your toes without being on the beach. They have a full bar and serve up some tasty Floridan-Caribbean dishes for brunch including lobster benedict and shrimp grits!

Turtle Hospital 

Address: 2396 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

The Turtle Hospital is one of the best stops and most popular stops on a Florida Keys road trip. This turtle hospital treats injured endangered sea turtles who are brought to the facility. This is where they are rehabilitated and released back in the wild or if not, they are looked after the rest of their lives here.

The Turtle Hospital does require a reservation to join a 90-minute guided tour teaching you about the endangered species you’ll witness in the Turtle Hospital, see the facility where they are treated, and see the open tanks of water where the sea turtles are living until they are healthy again to be released back in the water.

Your admission goes to funding this nonprofit facility and if you wish to donate more you can. We recommend calling a few days in advance or in peak season maybe even a few weeks in advance to make sure you can grab a spot on the tour.

Call the Marathon Turtle Hospital to reserve your spot on a tour (305) 743-2552

Lunch at Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Address: 1406 Ocean View Ave, Marathon

Our next stop on our Florida Keys road trip itinerary for a meal is a restaurant that is doing something great for the local marine environment at Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar . During recent years, non-native lionfish have been threatening the marine environment off the Florida Keys.

The lionfish is native to Indo-Pacific waters and it’s a mystery how they found themselves here in the Florida Keys. They are an invasive species that are capable of causing the extinction of native plants and animals. The spines on the lionfish are venomous and can sting. This makes them have very few predators. In addition, they have a very rapid reproductive rate and they eat alot.

The lionfish were quickly wiping out young populations of fish which were damaging to the entire biodiversity of the area. Local fishermen are doing what they can to hunt the lionfish and serve it on menus because its actually a quite delicious fish to consume.

However, that is also difficult because the only way you can really hunt lionfish is by spearfishing in deeper waters making it a hard fish to hunt in large quantities.

Castaway’s owner John fishes himself for lionfish that are served in the restaurant as sushi rolls. This is not only a great way to try lionfish but to help the local biodiversity in the waters here in the Florida Keys.

They offer dozens of beer on tap, an extensive sushi menu, and a regular seafood menu to choose from. This is a great stop for slow lunch right on the water and we recommend trying the lionfish while you’re here!

Relax at Isla Bella Beach Resort

Our final stop on our Florida Keys Road trip itinerary is the perfect place to unwind and reminisce on all the good times you had on your vacation. The incredible waterfront Isla Bella Beach Resort is the perfect place to do it.

Their waterfront villas are gorgeous and comfortable, a great way to pamper yourself before the end of your trip. There are several pools on the property as well as beachside cabanas you can hang out and relax in.

The views here are incredible and relaxing. There’s also a beachside bar with slightly overpriced drinks, but you’re paying for the location here! And an Italian restaurant on site.

If you don’t want to stick around for dinner they do offer bicycles you can borrow from the property to explore anything nearby.

Book Now on Booking.com | Compare Prices on Expedia.com | Check out rates on Hotels.com

The Florida Keys are known as a chain of islands off the southern tip of Florida famous for its scenic drive to Key West across many bridges and oceanside highways, crystal clear blue water, marine life, water sports, and famous food like key lime pie. The Florida Keys are a very popular warm winter vacation spot in the United States.

An ideal amount of time for a Florida Keys road trip would be a minimum of 5 days and even better with a full 7 days so you can add in more stops and outdoor excursions to your trip.

The best time to visit the Florida Keys is in the winter months from December through February after hurricane season has passed in November, this is the most popular time because the weather is the most comfortable. The spring months of March and May are also great time to visit the Florida Keys as there are fewer crowds and you can find better deals on hotels.

Hurricane season in the Florida Keys is typically June through November.

The drive from Miami to Key West is 159 miles (256 kilometers) and takes approximately 4 hours to drive nonstop over the Overseas Highway.

The Overseas Highway is 113-miles long and starts in Key Largo and ends in Key West, it takes 2.5-3 hours to drive the entire Florida Keys on the Overseas Highway.

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the perfect 5 day Florida Keys road trip and Miami to Key West drive guide. If you found it helpful consider bookmarking for later or sharing on Pinterest below.

Megan loves cats, pizza, and finding cool themed bars and hotels in New York and on her travels!

Similar Posts

Epic 7 Day New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary

Looking for an epic New Mexico road trip itinerary? My husband and I love road trips! We’ve taken them…

GORGEOUS Things to do in Newport Beach, California (Getaway Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Newport Beach, California? We got you. Both of us have spent…

11 Best Things to Do in Hudson, NY (Hudson Valley Getaway Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Hudson, New York? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re…

30+ Incredible Things to do in Bermuda (Best of Bermuda)

Looking for the best things to do in Bermuda? We got you. Bermuda is no doubt one of the…

Things to do in New Paltz New York (Getaway Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in New Paltz? Less than 2 hours away from busy New York…

20+ DREAMY Warm Winter Vacations in the USA

Brrr…winter is here and you need a break from the cold. Good thing there are several sunny and warm…

GET 5 FREE  LIGHTROOM PRESETS

Limited time offer: Up To 40% off on tickets

Ultimate Key West Road Trip Guide

Embark on an unforgettable journey down the historic Florida Keys Highway, stretching a magnificent 113 miles. Reconstructed in the 1980s after a devastating hurricane obliterated the previous railway in 1935, this scenic route takes you through a string of idyllic islands, with each mile marker bringing you closer to the southernmost point of the U.S. — Key West. Welcome to your ultimate guide to a Key West road trip, where every mile is a memory waiting to happen.

Discover Islamorada, the resilient “Village of Islands” nestled in the heart of the Florida Keys, where history intertwines with natural beauty. Despite bearing the brunt of the catastrophic Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, which claimed 423 lives, Islamorada stands today as a testament to endurance and resilience.

A Picturesque Locale…

This picturesque locale, once a coconut plantation, now hosts a boutique resort featuring eight private cottages amid lush tropical landscaping, just steps away from the Atlantic’s embrace. Hammocks sway beneath verdant fronds, offering moments of serene relaxation, while adventurous spirits can paddleboard across the azure waters, immersing themselves in the vibrant marine life .

A Balance Between Tourism and Ecological Preservation…

Robbie’s Marina, a Florida Keys icon, awaits exploration, offering both bait and memories for just 7 dollars. Embrace Islamorada’s blend of leisure and environmental stewardship, where every moment spent amid its turquoise waters and coral-fringed shores underscores the delicate balance between tourism and ecological preservation. Plan your Key West road trip now and include Islamorada in your itinerary for an unforgettable journey through the Florida Keys.

Best Places To Stay in Islamorada

Fisher inn resort & marina.

Positioned ideally overlooking the captivating Atlantic Ocean, Fisher Inn Resort & Marina is a quaint, basic motel, yet it offers so much more than meets the eye. Just a three-minute walk lands you at the fascinating Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, an open-air museum of prehistoric marine fossils. Within a brief nine-minute stroll, guests can also access the renowned marine park, Theater of the Sea, a haven for marine life lovers.

Rooms and Amenities

Rooms at the Fisher Inn come equipped with comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to four guests, making it an ideal choice for families or small groups. Select rooms also offer patios, where guests can unwind and soak in the warm Florida sun. Cottages with two bedrooms provide additional amenities like kitchenettes, perfect for those who prefer home-cooked meals. Awe-inspiring ocean views allow guests to witness the majestic Atlantic right from their windows.

Tranquility and Simplicity

Nestled against the gentle murmur of the Atlantic Ocean, the Fisher Inn Resort & Marina emerges as an emblem of tranquility and simplicity, embodying the essence of the Islamorada experience. A mere stone’s throw from the geological wonder of Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park and a leisurely stroll from the enchanting marine presentations at Theater of the Sea, this basic yet charming motel positions itself as a gateway to the natural and cultural riches that define the region.

Comfortable and Connected

Offering a range of accommodations from simple, well-appointed rooms that can host up to four guests to the more spacious cottages boasting kitchenettes and mesmerizing ocean views, the resort caters to varied preferences and budgets. With amenities including cable TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and minifridges, coupled with some units featuring inviting patios, Fisher Inn Resort & Marina promises a stay that is both comfortable and connected, placing guests in the heart of the Florida Keys’ serene yet vibrant lifestyle.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

Escape to the tropical oasis of Cheeca Lodge & Spa, a vibrant beachfront resort sprawled across 27 acres in the heart of the Florida Keys. Nestled just five miles from the captivating Windley Fossil Reef Geological State Park, this recreational haven beckons travelers seeking relaxation and adventure alike on their Key West road trip. Discover laid-back rooms adorned with island-inspired decor, offering modern amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, coffeemakers, and balconies overlooking the serene surroundings.

Luxury and Comfort

Indulge in luxury and comfort within our suites, where rainfall showerheads and oversized tubs await to soothe your senses after a day of exploration. Some suites even boast pull-out sofas and fully equipped kitchens, providing the perfect retreat for families and extended stays. Whether you’re unwinding on the balcony, basking in the tropical sun on the beach, or embarking on outdoor adventures, Cheeca Lodge & Spa offers a seamless blend of relaxation and excitement for your Key West road trip experience.

Prime Beachfront Location

Immerse yourself in the laid-back island lifestyle at Cheeca Lodge & Spa, your ultimate destination along the Florida Keys Highway. With its prime beachfront location and an array of amenities, including a serene spa, tempting dining options, and water sports activities, this resort is the perfect base camp for your Key West road trip adventure. From exploring the natural wonders of Windley Fossil Reef Geological State Park to retreating to your cozy room or suite, every moment at Cheeca Lodge & Spa promises relaxation and rejuvenation amid the tropical paradise of the Keys.

Things To Do in Islamorada

Sun seeker private boat charters.

Experience the thrill of ocean exploration with the Sun Seeker Private Boat Charter. Choose from flexible four-, six- and eight-hour trips tailored to your schedule and preference. Dive into the azure waters to explore the vibrant reef ecosystem, or venture offshore to the deeper waters. Experience the adrenaline rush of wreck fishing, or visit the Marathon Humps to catch tuna, a favorite spot among fishing enthusiasts. The Sun Seeker is also equipped with a unique tuna tower, an elevated platform that offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding seas, enhancing your fishing experience.

Comfort and Convenience

This vessel is designed with comfort and convenience in mind, featuring a spacious open deck that allows you to bask in the glorious Caribbean sun and the mesmerizing panoramas of the Florida Keys. A private restroom is available onboard, ensuring comfort throughout your journey.

Sandbar Tours

Embark on a private three-hour Islamorada Sandbar Tour, an ideal excursion for friends and couples seeking an unforgettable aquatic adventure. With the capacity to accommodate up to six guests, set sail and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Florida Keys. Rock out to your favorite tunes using the boat’s four tower speakers, adding a lively soundtrack to your journey. As you cruise, take advantage of the freshwater shower onboard to rinse off and stay refreshed amid the tropical heat. Keep your eyes peeled for captivating wildlife sightings, including playful dolphins, majestic seabirds, and colorful fish, enhancing the magic of your experience.

An Immersive and Enriching Experience

This exclusive tour not only offers relaxation and entertainment but also provides opportunities for memorable encounters with nature. Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or a Key West road trip with friends, the private three-hour Islamorada Sandbar Tour promises an immersive and enriching experience. Soak in the serenity of the turquoise waters, soak up the sun, and create lasting memories against the stunning backdrop of the Florida Keys.

Unleash your adventurous spirit with the small-group electric bike tours in Islamorada. These tours promise an exhilarating ride in the pleasantly warm breeze of Florida, making for a perfect winter getaway during January and February. Crossroads’ electric bike tours offer not just an exploration on two wheels but a comprehensive experience of the Florida Keys.

Relaxation and Exploration

Relish the thrill of the ride while also taking time to unwind in the white sands of the beach. The tour provides ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. You can spend some leisurely hours strolling along the shore, immersing yourself in the soothing rhythm of the waves, or try kayaking in the picturesque bay area for a unique perspective of the stunning coastline.

Shopping and Dining

But the fun doesn’t stop there; you’ll also have the chance to explore Islamorada’s renowned shopping scene. Browse the famous stores for unique mementos and experience the local culture in a tangible way. After a day filled with activity, treat your taste buds to delightful local cuisine at some of Islamorada’s most popular restaurants.

Intimate and Immersive Experience

The small-group electric bike tours in Islamorada offer an intimate and immersive experience of this enchanting town. Enjoy the diversity of activities and experiences on offer, all while soaking in the picturesque beauty of the Florida Keys.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Islamorada’s picturesque landscape with a private eco-tour and snorkeling boat tour. With six captivating Florida Keys enveloped by glistening waters and vibrant coral reefs , this half-day excursion offers a serene exploration of the ocean’s tranquil side. Step aboard a boat helmed by a United States Coast Guard (USCG) licensed captain and venture into the lush mangroves that fringe the islands, providing a scenic backdrop for your journey. From the comfort of the boat deck, keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of wildlife, from graceful seabirds to playful dolphins, enhancing your connection with nature.

Discover a Vibrant Underwater World

As the adventure unfolds, don your snorkeling mask and slip into the crystalline waters to delve deeper into the marine wonders below. With each dive, discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful coral formations and an array of exotic fish species. This private tour offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exhilaration, allowing you to unwind amid the beauty of the Florida Keys while indulging in thrilling snorkeling escapades. Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or a Key West road trip with friends, this unique experience promises to be a highlight of your island excursion, leaving you with cherished memories to treasure for years to come.

Best Places To Stay

Tranquility bay beachfront resort.

Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort, nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, offers a peaceful retreat amid stunning natural surroundings. This resort caters to a variety of preferences, whether you’re inclined toward adventure or are in search of tranquility. Its accommodation options range from quaint beach houses to tropical guest rooms, designed with privacy and comfort in mind.

A Peaceful Getaway

The resort features three pools, including a family-friendly lagoon-style pool and an adults-only option, providing a relaxing space for guests to unwind. Located on the Gulf, the resort offers beautiful views and easy access to water sports for those looking to add some excitement to their stay. For travelers exploring Key West , Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort is an appealing choice for a peaceful getaway.

Isla Bella Beach Resort

Isla Bella Beach Resort stands as a refined option for those venturing through the Florida Keys, especially noted for its thoughtful integration into the lush landscapes and oceanfront views it resides within. Situated conveniently near the Seven Mile Bridge, it provides ease of access to nearby attractions and a serene retreat within its premises.

A Memorable Stay in the Keys

The resort is distinguished by its modern design, spacious accommodations that guarantee ocean views, and comprehensive amenities, including multiple oceanfront pools and on-site dining options. Its commitment to guest experience is further underscored by a full-service spa and a marina that caters to aquatic adventures. While it offers luxurious touches, the essence of Isla Bella is encapsulated in its ability to blend relaxation, natural beauty, and understated elegance for visitors seeking a memorable stay in the Keys.

Courtyard Faro Blanco Resort

Located just off the Overseas Highway, the unassuming yet charming Courtyard Faro Blanco Resort offers a unique beachfront experience next to the stunning Gulf of Mexico. Conveniently situated, the hotel is merely four miles from the loggerhead turtle nesting site at Sombrero Beach and three miles from the marine marvels at the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters.

Prime Location

Families love the bright comfy rooms (some with Gulf views!), two refreshing pools, and endless activities, like beach volleyball, movie nights, and a game room. Evenings come alive with the Eventide celebration — fire, lights, and live music under the stars. Unwind in the hot tub, lounge by the waterfront, or explore the fitness center. Two restaurants are on-site, with more options nearby. The resort’s prime location grants easy access to the Turtle Hospital, Dolphin Research Center, and the magic of the Florida Keys.

Things To Do in Marathon, FL

Take in the seven mile bridge.

One of the iconic attractions in Marathon is the awe-inspiring Seven Mile Bridge. This architectural marvel, connecting the Middle Keys to the Lower Keys, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. A drive across this bridge from Little Duck to Knight’s Key offers an unparalleled view of the stunning azure waters surrounding the Keys. As you traverse this magnificent bridge, you can witness the breathtaking panorama of the expansive ocean merging with the clear blue sky at the horizon, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. This drive is more than just a route — it’s a journey that allows you to fully appreciate the serene beauty and vastness of the oceanic expanse. The Seven Mile Bridge is more than an essential transportation route; it’s a symbol of the seamless blend of nature’s majesty and human innovation.

Marathon Air Museum

For aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, the Marathon Air Museum is a must-visit attraction. Nestled close to the Marathon Airport, this museum serves as a repository of the rich history of human flight. Visitors have the opportunity to view a plethora of aircraft on display, ranging from early flight models to modern jet fighters. Each exhibit is accompanied by informative plaques that detail the aircraft’s history, design, and role in the evolution of aviation. The museum offers informative and engaging guided tours that delve into the fascinating chronicles of human flight, offering insights about the pioneers who dared to fulfill mankind’s ancient dream of soaring through the skies. From the Wright brothers’ first successful flight to the advent of supersonic jets, the Marathon Air Museum encapsulates the indomitable spirit of human innovation and the relentless quest to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Crane Point Museum and Nature Center

The Crane Point Museum and Nature Center is a veritable tropical oasis, teeming with unique flora and fauna indigenous to the region. This 63-acre sanctuary takes you on an unprecedented journey through the cultural, historical, and natural aspects of the area. The museum and nature center, nestled amid lush botanical gardens, offer a rich tapestry of experiences that leave visitors enlightened and inspired. The trolley tour is an absolute delight, meandering through the verdant gardens, allowing you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the tropical landscape up close. Nature trails wind their way through the sanctuary, inviting visitors to explore and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. The bird rescue center is a testament to the sanctuary’s commitment to wildlife preservation, housing a myriad of avian species and offering a rare opportunity to learn about these fascinating creatures. The marine touch tanks are another highlight, enabling hands-on interactions with a variety of marine life. The Crane Point Museum and Nature Center is not just a place to visit; it is an experience that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul.

Key West and the Lower Keys

Rooted in a rich history, Key West and the Lower Keys were originally inhabited by the Calusa and Tequesta tribes and were later charted by the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León in 1513. These islands form an enchanting blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering a unique glimpse into Florida’s past and its vibrant ecosystem.

Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Nature Center

Situated on Big Pine Key is the newly established Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Nature Center. Showcasing exhibits that highlight the Keys’ four wildlife refuges, the center is a testament to Florida’s commitment to preserving its diverse wildlife. Established in 1957, the refuge spans approximately 9,200 acres of land on Big Pine and No Name Keys, serving as a habitat for the endangered Key deer — a species endemic to the Florida Keys.

Geiger Key Marina at the Fish Camp

Venture 30 minutes south to discover the authentic spirit of the Old Keys at Geiger Key Marina at the Fish Camp. Founded by local restaurateurs Michelle and Bobby Mongelli, the minds also behind the well-loved Hogfish Bar and Grill on nearby Stock Island, Geiger Key Marina at the Fish Camp is renowned for its legendary Sunday afternoon barbecue.

A Hub for Local Marine Life

This bustling marina also serves as an important hub for local marine life, providing a thriving habitat for manatees, sea stars, tropical fish, and a variety of shorebirds. Visitors are treated to a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life, offering a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural environment. Whether you’re a keen wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic Keys experience, Key West and the Lower Keys offer an unforgettable journey, encompassing the essence of Florida’s natural and cultural heritage.

Best Places To Stay in Key West

The marker resort.

Just steps away from the Historic Seaport, The Marker Resort is a tropical oasis that epitomizes the laid-back charm of Key West. Encapsulated by lush gardens, this upscale resort offers luxury accommodations with private balconies and sophisticated decor inspired by the beachfront setting. Featuring three sparkling pools, each offering a unique ambiance, guests can immerse themselves in the relaxing Key West lifestyle. The resort’s signature restaurant, Cero Bodega, serves a fusion of Californian and Mexican cuisine, offering guests an unforgettable culinary journey. With its prime location, The Marker Resort allows its discerning guests to easily explore vibrant Key West nightlife, boutique shops, and eclectic dining scene while providing a tranquil retreat to unwind.

Opal Key Resort

Opal Key Resort & Marina, positioned on the edge of Key West’s historic harbor, is an idyllic sanctuary that delivers an authentic Key West experience. Capturing the essence of island living, the resort features rooms and suites, each with their own private balcony that offers breathtaking views of the waterfront. Guests can rejuvenate at the full-service spa, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or relax at the poolside bar. The on-site restaurant, Latitudes, serves up gourmet island cuisine using fresh local ingredients under the guidance of award-winning chefs. Opal Key Resort’s marina gives guests access to a host of water sports, from deep-sea fishing to diving and sailing, making it the perfect spot for those seeking an active, yet relaxing, vacation in the beautiful Florida Keys.

Things To Do in Key West and the Lower Keys

Diving and snorkeling at looe key reef.

Looe Key Reef, named after the HMS Looe that tragically ran aground here in 1744, is a remarkable underwater paradise that sprawls across just 5.3 square nautical miles. Despite its modest size, the reef boasts a staggering variety of coral structures and marine life. Snorkelers and divers can marvel at the vibrant coral, teeming with fishes of myriad colors and sizes, from the docile parrotfish to the wily barracuda. The reef is renowned for its uniquely deep reef that gradually slopes into the depths, reaching over 100 feet. This depth provides a mesmerizing opportunity to witness the pelagic, or deep oceanic, species of the Florida Keys, a sight that is nothing short of breathtaking. From majestic rays gliding through the water to the elusive and awe-inspiring sharks, the deep reef is a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, Looe Key Reef offers an unforgettable underwater adventure, capturing the unrivaled beauty of the Florida Keys’ marine ecosystem.

Golf Courses in Key West and the Lower Keys

The key west golf club.

Nestled amid the island’s lush landscape, the Key West Golf Club provides golf enthusiasts with a championship-rated course that holds its own unique charm. Skillfully designed by golf legend Rees Jones, this 18-hole, par 70 championship course combines the thrill of the game with the serenity of the island’s tropical surroundings.

Seasoned Golfers and Beginners

The course is suited to players of all abilities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both seasoned golfers and beginners. The Key West Golf Club is not just about the game; it’s about the total golfing experience. With a fully stocked pro shop, golfers can find everything they need, from high-quality equipment to the latest golf apparel. Beyond the greens, the club offers a driving range, providing an excellent space to practice your swing or to warm up before your game. PGA professional instruction is also available for those looking to enhance their skills or for newcomers looking to get started.

Complementing the golfing amenities, the club houses a dining facility that can accommodate up to 150 people. This makes it an ideal spot to unwind, enjoy a meal, and reminisce about the day’s game. With its proximity to Key West’s famous attractions, the Key West Golf Club offers not just a golfing experience but a comprehensive Key West experience.

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park, a jewel in Florida’s state park system, unfolds across Mile Markers 36 to 38.5, nestled between Ohio Key and Spanish Harbor Key. Located just 12 miles west of Marathon and near the western end of the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, it is more than just an island in the Florida Keys. This park is a perfect amalgamation of nature, history, and recreation.

An Array of Fun-Filled Recreational Activities

Whether your taste leans towards adrenaline-charged adventure or laid-back relaxation, Bahia Honda State Park caters to all. Explore the area’s rich natural and cultural heritage through its well-maintained nature trails and historical sites. Engage in an array of fun-filled recreational activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and bird-watching, that offer a chance to admire the island’s diverse wildlife.

Bask in The Warm Sunshine

And for those seeking a serene day under the sun, the park’s sandy beaches are the perfect getaway. Bask in the warm sunshine, read a book, or simply enjoy the mesmerizing views of the turquoise blue waters. Bahia Honda State Park is not just a destination; it’s an experience that encapsulates the spirit of the Florida Keys. Don’t miss out on including it in your Key West road trip adventure.

National Key Deer Refuge

The National Key Deer Refuge, established in 1957, serves as a sanctuary for the unique Key Deer, a species found exclusively in the lower Florida Keys. Spanning over 9,200 acres of diverse habitats, including pine rockland forests, tropical hardwood hammocks, fresh- and saltwater marshes, mangroves, and beaches, the refuge plays a critical role in preserving and enhancing the natural ecosystems of the Florida Keys.

Key Deer, the smallest subspecies of the North American white-tailed deer, are the star attraction of the refuge. Their existence, confined solely to this part of the world, makes them a symbol of the unique biodiversity that the Florida Keys harbors.

A Must-Visit Spot

Beyond the Key Deer, the refuge is a biodiversity hot spot, providing a haven to over 20 endangered and threatened plant and animal species. This rich biodiversity makes it a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike. Whether it’s a quiet walk on the refuge’s well-maintained trails or a guided tour to learn more about these unique species and their habitats, a visit to the National Key Deer Refuge promises to be a memorable, enriching experience encapsulating the true essence of Florida Keys’ wildlife.

Things To Do in Key West

Key west butterfly & nature conservatory.

The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, located at 1316 Duval Street, offers an enchanting experience amid a vibrant spectacle of nature. This butterfly park, situated in the heart of Key West, Florida, is a slice of paradise that introduces visitors to the fascinating world of butterflies. Within its climate-controlled, glass-enclosed habitat, the conservatory houses 50 to 60 different species of live butterflies from around the globe. As you meander through the lush tropical environment, thousands of these delicate creatures flutter around, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors.

Learning Center

The conservatory is dedicated not just to the preservation of these beautiful insects but also to educating the public about their life cycle and their role in the ecosystem. It boasts a learning center where visitors can delve deeper into the intricacies of the butterfly life cycle, from the tiny egg to the awe-inspiring adult butterfly. Beyond butterflies, the conservatory is also home to a variety of exotic birds and plants, adding to the richness of the experience.

An Immersive Journey

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a unique serene escape, the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory offers an immersive journey into the wonderful world of butterflies that promises to captivate and inspire.

The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, an iconic landmark in Key West, Florida, once served as the residence of the renowned American author Ernest Hemingway during the 1930s. Located at 907 Whitehead Street, this charming Spanish Colonial-style mansion is conveniently situated near the southern coast of the island, directly across from the Key West Lighthouse. The house, steeped in historical significance, offers unique insight into Hemingway’s life and his creative process during his most prolific period. The museum showcases the author’s personal collection of artifacts, art, and furnishings, still intact and on display as he left them. The lush gardens and the famous six-toed cat descendants of Hemingway’s original feline, Snow White, add to the allure of this unique attraction. A visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is not just a tour — it’s a step back in time that encapsulates the spirit of an author whose work has touched millions.

Duval Street

Duval Street, a bustling thoroughfare in Key West, Florida, is the heart and soul of the island city, making it an essential stop on any Key West road trip. Named after William Pope Duval, Florida’s first territorial governor, the street stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, acting as a vibrant artery pumping life through the city. With its unique blend of historic charm and modern allure, Duval Street offers something for everyone. It is zoned for commercial use, with its buildings reflecting architectural styles from different periods, contributing to the city’s unique aesthetic.

Shopping, Dining, and Art

The street is lined with a myriad of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and music venues, creating a lively atmosphere that captures the eclectic spirit of Key West. Whether it’s perusing local boutiques, indulging in the island’s culinary delights, or soaking up the vibrant nightlife, Duval Street offers a myriad of experiences. Furthermore, it’s the hub for many of Key West’s famous festivals and parades, including the annual Fantasy Fest and Key West Pride.

A Laid-Back Key West Vibe

But amid the hustle and bustle, Duval Street also offers moments of tranquility. Charming cafes provide a perfect spot for people-watching, while the side streets reveal picturesque houses and lush gardens, inviting visitors to take a leisurely stroll and soak up the laid-back Key West vibe. At its endpoints, visitors are rewarded with beautiful views of the ocean, making Duval Street not just a street but a journey capturing the essence of Key West.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park , located approximately 68 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, is an American treasure renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. Spread across 100 square miles, the park encompasses seven small islands along with an abundance of marine life, colorful coral reefs, tropical bird breeding grounds, and sunken treasures.

Snorkeling and Kayaking

The park’s vibrant underwater ecosystem is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore the breathtaking coral reefs, shipwrecks, and the diverse sea life they harbor. Kayaking along the park’s clear blue waters is another popular activity, allowing visitors to discover the park’s beauty at their own pace.

Bird Watching, Fishing, and More

For bird watchers, the park serves as a haven for numerous species of migratory birds. Dry Tortugas also offers excellent saltwater fishing opportunities for anglers, and its serene environment makes it a perfect spot for picnicking or camping under the stars. The park’s historical highlight, the imposing Fort Jefferson , one of the most significant 19th-century American forts, adds an educational aspect to the visit.

Natural Beauty and Rich History

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or thrill-seeker, Dry Tortugas National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history that promises a memorable experience.

Things To Do in Dry Tortugas

A ferry to dry tortugas national park.

Traveling to the breathtaking Dry Tortugas National Park has never been more exciting than via the exhilarating ferry ride that offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight. This journey, typically spanning approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, is more than just a mode of transportation — it’s an experience in itself.

Yankee Freedom

As you enjoy the pure joy of sea air on the open upper deck of the ferry, taking in the panoramic vistas of the ocean and the soothing sounds of marine life, remember the added conveniences provided by the Yankee Freedom. While keeping an eye out for playful dolphins and the occasional flying fish, adding a touch of nature’s magic to your voyage, don’t forget that the Yankee Freedom ensures your comfort with beverages, breakfast snack, and a satisfying box lunch for day trips . Plus, there’s a galley onboard stocked with an array of drinks and snacks available for purchase, making sure you have everything you need for an enjoyable journey!

Cultural and Natural Resources of Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is a beacon of cultural and natural wonders that are unrivaled in their diversity and beauty. Occupying a 100-square mile area in the Gulf of Mexico, the park consists largely of open water, punctuated by seven small islands that serve as jeweled crowns on the aquamarine expanse.

Fort Jefferson

The park is globally renowned as the custodian of the magnificent Fort Jefferson. This sprawling 19th-century fortress, the largest masonry structure in the Americas, serves as a stunning testament to human ingenuity and a window into America’s rich historical tapestry.

Coral Reefs

But the marvels of Dry Tortugas extend beyond human history and delve deep into the natural world. The park’s picturesque blue waters serve as a backdrop for some of the world’s most exceptional coral reefs. These underwater kaleidoscopes teem with an array of marine life, creating a vibrant ecosystem that is as beautiful as it is essential to global biodiversity.

Above the water’s surface, the park acts as a sanctuary for a vast assortment of bird life. Migratory birds from various corners of the world stop at Dry Tortugas, filling the air with a symphony of calls and lending the park a dynamic, ever-changing tapestry of fauna.

Cultural and Natural Resources

In its entirety, Dry Tortugas National Park is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of cultural and natural resources. It is where history’s echoes meet nature’s vibrancy, creating an atmosphere that is sure to captivate and inspire all who visit.

How many days is enough for Key West?

A Key West road trip can be as short as a day or as long as a week, depending on what you’d like to experience. However, a three-day trip is often considered ideal to enjoy the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you ample time to explore the historic sites, indulge in water sports, dine at local eateries, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

What month is good to go to Key West?

While Key West boasts pleasant weather year-round, the months from March to June are considered the best for visiting. During this period, the weather is warm but not overly hot, and the tourist crowd is less dense compared to the peak winter months. Rainfall is also relatively low, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities.

What are the best places to hang out in Key West?

Key West is teeming with lively spots to hang out. Duval Street is the heart of Key West’s nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops. The Mallory Square area is famous for its Sunset Celebrations, street performances, and local vendors. For a laid-back beach day, head to Smathers Beach or Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.

Where is the most scenic drive in Key West?

The Overseas Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 1, is considered the most scenic drive in Key West. This iconic road stretches over 100 miles, connecting the Florida Keys to the mainland. The drive offers stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters, lush mangroves, and the occasional exotic wildlife sighting.

Other Articles You May Like

Best Florida Keys Snorkeling Spots

Top Places For Camping In Key West & The Florida Keys

Dry Tortugas Facts

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Follow Me Away

Couples Travel & Travel Photography Blog

• Middle East
• North America
• South America
• Photography
• Travel Tips

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!

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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!

Ready to hit the road?

Have you decided to add a Miami to Key West road trip to your bucket list?  Pin this guide for later, so you’ll have my updated tips when you’re ready to book! 

Save for later or share with a friend!

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)

6 Day Florida Keys Itinerary: Guide for an Epic Miami to Key West Drive

6 Day Florida Keys Itinerary: Guide for an Epic Miami to Key West Drive

Table of Contents

A girl’s getaway is good for the soul. Whether it’s with your mom, sister or your besties there’s nothing like a good spa break or road trip to enjoy some quality time together.  This was my first time to The Florida Keys and I’m so happy I got to enjoy the incredible Miami to Key West drive.  Keep reading for my 6 Day Florida Keys Itinerary!

The ease of the Florida Keys

There are many things I loved about Key West and the other Keys. In addition to the obvious; blue water, delicious seafood and amazing resorts, there’s also the fact that no passport is required, no exchanging money or calling your bank and no language barrier.

If you want somewhere to just relax hassle free this is the place! It’s even better that the Keys are so close to Miami. It makes for an easy addition to your city trip.

Where are the Keys?

The Florida Keys are a coral cay archipelago on the south tip of Florida, only 90 miles from Cuba . You can actually visit the Southern most point in the continental U.S. in Key West.

The Florida Keys are an easy hour’s drive from Miami.

Is it Worth Driving from Miami to Key West, Fl?

Of course!! The Overseas Highway , which is the major road that runs through the Keys,  was named an All-American Road by the National Scenic Byways program administered by the Federal Highway Administration. This is one of the most amazing U.S. road trips you can do.

There are plenty of fun and beautiful stops along this epic drive between Miami and Key West and the driving itself  felt pretty laid back.

Florida Keys Facts

• From Miami Airport to the start of the Keys is about 55 miles .
• The Keys stretch across 125 miles.
• Distance between Miami International Airport and Key West is about 110 miles.
• Key Largo is the longest key at 30 miles.
• The climate is warm year round. 
• 5 Main regions of the Keys : Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine and the Lower Keys, and Key West.
• The Overseas Highway also known as, “the Highway that goes to the Sea” is the main way to get around the Keys. It’s 113 miles long and consists of 42 bridges.

When is the Best Time to Visit ?

• Winter, December-February, is the busiest season, so plan accordingly. Prices will be at their peak.
• Between March and May is a great time because it is shoulder season and you can take advantage of less crowds and discounted rates.
• Summer, June-August is rainy season.
• September- November is hurricane season so it may not be worth the risk of bad weather.

Miami to Key West Drive Map

6 Day Florida Keys Itinerary : Miami to Key West Drive

Day 1. start off by flying into miami airport and pick up your rental car..

I usually book with Rentalcars.com. Remember to have all required paperwork. Check with your credit card company if you have car insurance included with your card or if you’ll need to pay extra.

It’s a few hours drive all the way down to Key West from Miami so make sure you have a good road trip playlist ready to go! You’ll get to cross over multiple bridges including the famous 7 Mile Bridge which is the perfect way to start of your Florida Keys trip.

Stop 1: Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon Key

Location: Marathon Key, Mile marker 47-40

When driving over the Seven Mile Bridge, you’ll cross over plenty of blue water and you’ll also notice another bridge next to it.

You are driving over the modern bridge by car, while the old one is now used for biking and pedestrians only.  Currently though, the old bridge is closed for repairs and is set to re open by 2022.

Stop 2: Seafood Lunch at Sundowners

Address: 103900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

On the way, stop for lunch at Sundowners in Key Largo for some seafood and views of the Florida Bay. It’s about an hour from the airport, which is pretty much the max time I can go without eating, especially post flight. If you know me at all you will know that I need to eat about every 3 hours so it was ideal to have a nice place to stop!

Sundowner’s

Stop 3: Check into Ocean’s Edge Resort and Spa

Address: 950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, FL 33040

Continue on your drive to Key West for a couple more hours. You’ll be very happy when you check into Oceans Edge Resort and Marina , a luxury resort where every single room has an ocean view .

Ocean’s edge is completely with 7 heated pools overlooking the marina.  By the time we checked in and settled into our very spacious suite, the magical sunset had begun and it was amazing to see it dance over the boats.

Stop 4: Dinner at Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen

Address: 7001 Shrimp Rd Suite 200, Key West, FL 33040

Eat dinner at the nearby Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen  located at the Perry Hotel in Key West. The food here was right up my alley, quality food made with the freshest ingredients.

To start, make sure you order the Admiral Tower, a seafood sampler which comes served in a tackle box!

Ocean’s Edge Resort

Tackle box sampler, Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen

Day 2. Water adventures in Key West

Stop 1: breakfast at blue heaven.

Address: 729 Thomas St, Key West, FL 33040

Head into downtown Key West to eat breakfast at Blue Heaven . (we were lucky to get a parking spot pretty easily-few are available, so plan accordingly) Who couldn’t love an al fresco breakfast under colourful canopies with a live band to ease you into the day?!

I obviously had to order the shrimp benedict with lime hollandaise because I can certainly say I never had that before and it was delicious!

Stop 2: A day with Fury Water Adventures

Address: 0 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040

Did you know that just a few miles off Key West is the third largest coral barrier reef in the world?!  Yep, its true! We got to check it out during our  Reef and Ritas Snorkel excursion with Fury Water Adventures . So do exactly as it says, see the only living coral reef in the U.S.A. (no big deal, right?) then come back to the boat to sun yourself on the top deck while enjoying your ritas. 🙂

Stop 3: Enjoy the Key West Sunset Celebration

Address: Mallory Square Pier, 420 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040

A must do while in Key West in the Sunset Celebration. Mallory Square Sunset street Carnival is a nightly event.  Everyone who’s everyone comes together to applaud mother nature for her marvellous efforts.

Shrimp Benedict, Blue Heaven

Fury Adventures

Sunset Celebration

Day 3. Spend the Day in Downtown Key West.

Stop 1: breakfast at kermit’s cafe kitchen..

Location: 200 Elizabeth St, Key West, FL 33040

Grab a light breakfast at Kermit’s Cafe Kitchen.

Stop 2: Things to do in Key West.

Take the day to explore what Key West has to offer. There is plenty to see and do in Key West, here are some of the top things to do:

1.The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

• Address: 1316 Duval St, Key West

Check out over 50 different species of butterflies in a controlled climate glass house. Open from 9am-5pm daily. $15 entrance fee.

2. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

• Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West

Explore the historic home and gardens of Nobel Prize winning author, Ernest Hemingway. His cat’s decendents still live on the property!

3. Go shopping or bar hopping on Duval Street.

There are so many fun bars, including lots of open air ones. Definitely try one of the rum cocktails! The Rum Bar, Captain Tony’s Saloon, Alonzo’s,  or the Green Parrot are some of your top options.

4. Admire beautiful homes throughout the downtown area.

Southern style homes in the downtown area are eye catching, intriguing and exude southern charm. There are lots of historic homes to see and learn about owned by famous playlists and artists.

5. Visit the Southernmost Point Buoy.

• Location: Whitehead St &, South St, Key West

A concrete buoy marking the the Southernmost Point in the continental U.S. A popular tourist photo spot!

6. Strand Theatre

• Address: 527 Duval Street, Key West

A theater from the 1920s turned into a store that has many of it’s historic theater elements preserved.

7. Check out the Key West Lighthouse.

• Address: 938 Whitehead St, Key West

Climb to the top of the 88 steps of the lighthouse turned maritime museum.  $12 admission fee.

8. Visit a Rum Distillery.

Rum is the drink of choice down in the Keys, with it’s close proximity to the Caribbean and handful of local distilleries.

• Key West Distilling
• Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery, Hemingway Rum Company – Experience a distillery tour and all of the all the classic rum cocktails including a Hemingway Daquiri or Old Fashioned.
• Key West First Legal Rum Distillery – Daily distillery tours and tastings. Must try to the Mojito!

9. Ride a floating Tiki Bar.

• Cruisin’ Tikis Key West leaves from Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West, Hurricane Hole Marina or Mellow Ventures. This cruise is BYOB so you choose and bring your own booze while ice cups are provided.

10. Visit the Harry S. Truman Little White House.

• Address: 11 Front St, Key West

Florida’s only presidential museum. Entry fee of $22. Purchase online for a discounted rate.

Kermit’s Cafe

Stop 3: Sunset Sail with Danger Charters

Location: 255 Front St, Key West, FL 33040

Get ready for a wonderful evening with Danger Charters Wind and Wine Sunset Sail . This might have been my favorite activity of the entire trip (no surprise there, as I’m a self proclaimed foodie and wino so this is top of my list for what to do in the Florida Keys).

The boat cruise leaves from Front Street and takes you out to enjoy the sunset with lovely wines, passed hors d’oeuvres and good people.

Stop 4: Spend the Evening in Key West Downtown

After the boat cruise pop over to Turtle Kraals and bet your luck on a turtle race! I don’t see you’ll see this kind of race anywhere else. It’s a great laugh to share with your friends.

Day 4. Bahia Honda State Park + Drive to the Upper Keys

Stop 1: check out of ocean’s edge and drive to bahia honda.

Address: 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Time to check out of Ocean’s Edge Resort and begin your drive to the Upper Keys . Don’t pass by without stopping at Bahia Honda State Park for some gorgeous photos and a quick tanning session!

Bahia Honda State Park is located right off the Overseas highway. There is an $8 fee per vehicle and the park is open from 8am to sundown every day.

Stop 2: Lunch at Robbie’s Marina

Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, Mile marker 77

When you start to get that hunger pang you can stop for lunch at the famous Robbie’s Marina to sip on a cocktail, feed the tarpons, shop and grab “a bite.”

Bahia Honda State Park

Robbie’s Marina

Stop 3: Check in to Amara Cay Resort

Address: 80001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, Mile marker 80

Check in to Amara Cay Resort and marvel at the palm tree lined property. I had a delicious strawberry mojito while I looked around the property.  Enjoy water sports, fire pits, games and the fitness centre, even a shuttle anywhere within a 4 mile radius, all of which is included at the resort.

Day 5. Ultimate Spa Day + Brewery Tour

Stop 1: breakfast at key largo conch house.

Address: 100211 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 , Mile marker 100

Breakfast at Key Largo Conch House . I had the crab eggs Benedict, an almond milk latte and a fresh orange juice. Can the day start any better?

Stop 2: Spa Day

Address: 97450 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

No girls getaway is complete without a spa day. Book yourself a treatment at Playa Largo Resort and Spa. Enjoy the gorgeous ocean front pool. This place will not disappoint. I had the best facial of my life here. Post treatment in the quiet area we enjoyed a glass of bubbly and a yummy snack plate.

Playa Largo Resort and Spa

Stop 3: Brewery Tour

Address:81611 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, Mile marker 81

Spends the afternoon learning a little something at the Florida Keys Brewing Co.   They can give you a tour of the brewery and then you can enjoy the fruits of their labor. So many different kinds of beer to try and definitely some ones you’ve never heard of. I kid you not, this was the most Instagrammable brewery I have ever seen. They’re all about using tropical flowers and plants in their beer, like in their hibiscus beer which is a perfect color pink.

Stop 4: Dinner at Marker 88

Address: 88000 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, Mile Marker 88

For the final seafood feast eat at Marker 88 . An Oceanfront outdoor dining restaurant with friendly staff and perfect sunset watching location.

Day 6. Check out

 check out + enjoy your last hours in the sun..

Address: 84001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, Mile marker 84

Sadly, today is when you check out of Amara Cay Resort. However, you can conveniently stop on your way to the airport and use the pool at their sister property, Postcard Inn.

Their pool is amazing and you can enjoy a drink at their Tiki Bar knowns for the famous Rum Runner drink. A great way to end your Florida Keys itinerary.

Other places to stop on Miami to Key West Drive Itinerary

Dry tortugas national park.

Located about 70 miles west and Key West lie the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of seven islands. You can get their via a 45 minute flight on a seaplane. You’ll see plenty of wildlife like sea turtles and dolphins as well as one of the largest coastal forts ever built, Fort Jefferson.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The first undersea park in the U.S. Take in the underwater wonders by glass boat, scuba diving or snorkeling. The park is about 25 miles long.

National Key Deer Refuge

Key Deer are a unique species to the lower Florida Keys. The over 8000 acre refuge is located in Big Pine Key and No Name Key.

Dolphin Research Center

A non profit organization aiming for peaceful coexistance with marine animals. Sit in on behavior sessions and even go swimming with the dolphins!

Turtle Hospital

Meet current patients and permanent residents at the Turtle Hospital and rehab center located in Marathon. Educational programs run daily.

Everglades National Park

A National Park that is also a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance. Explore the park with a guide or on your own. Entrance fee is $30 per vehicle. Boating, biking or hiking are just a few of the activities you can do here.

Southern Glades

Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area is popular for biking and hiking. The glades lie just off the Overseas Highway in Miami-Dade County.

Biscayne National Park

Biscayne Bay National Park is located in the northern Florida Keys and is the largest marine park in the U.S.A. If you want to explore the reefs and islands of this National Park you’ll have to go by boat. See a shipwreck, visit one of the world’s largest lagoons or go kayaking.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys

There are so many beautiful properties to choose from in the Florida Keys, many of which have waterfront real estate. During my time in the Keys,  I had the chance to check out Ocean’s Edge Resort, The Postcard Inn, Amara Cay Resort and Playa Largo Resort.  Each one of these hotels had some amazing features.

• Ocean’s Edge Resort and Marina (Key West) –  You really can’t go wrong at this hotel considering every room has a view of. the marina. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets each night. Choose to watch from your room or from one of the heated pools.
• Gardens Hotel (Key West) – A pet and eco friendly hotel in the heart of Key West!
• Sunset Keys Cottages (Sunset Key) –  Conde Nast Traveler 2020 Readers Choice Awards. One to four bedroom luxury cottages on this intimate Key. Boat transportation brings you between the pier and the cottages.
• Casa Marina (Key West) – A Waldorf Astoria Resort with plenty of outside space and ocean views.
• Hawks Cay Resort (Duck Key) – A classic family friendly resort.
• Playa Largo Resort and Spa (Islamorada) – A stunning property with a private beach and exquisite spa facilities.
• Cheeca Lodge & Spa (Islamorada) – A luxury resort on the key of Islamorada.
• Amara Cay Resort (Islamorada) – A small boutique property on the
• Little Palm Island Resort and Spa (Little Torch Key) This resort is located on it’s own private island.

How to get to Key West from Miami if you don’t want to drive.

• Greyhound Bus – One way for under $20.
• Keys Shuttle – Pick ups from both Miami International and Fort Lauderdale Airport.
• Miami to Key West Shuttle – Round trip for as low as $29.99. Pick ups on Collins Ave and a few other locations in Miami.
• Norwegian Cruise
• Royal Caribbean
• Carnival Cruise

Ferry from San Marco Island or Fort Myers Only

Many thanks to the Florida Keys Tourism Board for sponsoring this post and for all the businesses along the way. As always all opinions are my own.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

About the author: lauren mcgill.

Related Posts

Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii: A Complete Travel Guide

Travel Guide: Seneca Lake + Keuka Lake, Finger Lakes, New York

7 Train Food Crawl: Eating Your Way Across the World’s Borough, Queens

A Dreamy Wedding Week at Kempa Villa, Palm Desert, California

How to Winter in the Hamptons; Where to Stay & Things to Do

Miami to Key West Drive – Best Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Road Trips , United States

Updated On: February 19, 2024

There are so many places to visit from Miami to Key West that it can be confusing knowing where to begin. This great American road trip is definitely one to add to your bucket list, and a drive to Key West from Miami will transport you to the Caribbean without needing to hop on a plane. Dave and I have taken a Miami to Key West road trip three times plus once from Miami to Key Largo so we know a thing or two about this drive. To help you plan your ultimate Florida Keys road trip itinerary, we’ve rounded up the best stops on a Miami to Key West drive

Table of Contents

Miami to Key West Drive

The Miami to Key West drive is 164.4 mi via US-1 S and takes 3 hr 30 min without traffic. You could drive directly to Key West from Miami in one afternoon but that would take all of the fun out of visiting the amazing stops and the Florida Keys along the way. You may also like: The Best Places to Stay in Florida

Overseas Highway

When driving from Miami to Key West, you will be taking one of the most unique road trips in the world through a chain of 800 Keys that are connected by a series of 142 bridges spanning 124 miles. (Note: Not all Keys are reachable by car)

The Overseas Highway is 113 miles long. This chain of islands off the southern coast of Florida divides the Atlantic Ocean from the Gulf of Mexico and each Key has its own activities and benefits for visiting.

As you head south, take your time to really soak in the experience. At times, you’ll be completely surrounded by water. In short, the drive to through the Florida Keys is as spectacular as it is unique.

While the Miami to Key West drive is 164 miles, the real road trip begins at the gateway to the Florida Keys. While this road trip guide starts in Miami, it focuses more on the stops south from Key Largo as that is where the bulk of the fun truly takes place.

• 30 Fun Things to do in Miami, Florida
• 33 of the Best Things to Do in Key West

Miami to Key West Map

Are you ready to explore the best stops from Miami to Key West on one of the great road trips in the world? We’ve included a map that you can follow along on your drive to make things easier.

The drive from Miami to Key West can be done in 3 1/2 hours but to really appreciate it, you should take your time and spend the night on a couple of Keys before reaching your final destination. The suggested amount of time for a Miami to Key West road trip is 7 days.

Many people fly directly to the Key West International Airport without ever leaving the island. Even though we love to visit Key West, we think that would be a shame as the other Florida Keys have a lot to offer. So even if you are flying directl, rent a car for a day or two to see these other stops in the Florida Keys.

Tips for Driving From Miami to Key West

Once you get to the south of the mainland on your drive from Miami to Key West, the real road trip begins just past Florida City crossing over Jewfish Creek. Crossing that first bridge is thrilling. It feels like you’re heading to the Caribbean but instead of a five-hour flight, you’re driving straight to the tropics!

You will be following mile markers for reference throughout your road trip with your overseas highway. You officially enter the Florida Keys at Mile Marker 127 at Florida City with is at the Junction of the Florida Turnpike and U.S. 1. You will then follow the mile markers all the way to Mile Marker 0.

Overseas Highway Self-Diving Tour

We highly recommend renting a car in Miami for your Key West Road Trip. Check Rental Car prices and comparisons at CarRentals.com

Get your Key West Overseas Highway Self Driving Tour that highlights the top attractions from Miami and the Florida Keys including Hollywood landmark the African Queen riverboat to Plantation Key, the Smuggler’s Haven. It also gives tips to check out Big Betsy, the giant lobster, and Theatre of the Sea. Details here

Toll Roads: Florida has a lot of toll roads and we suggest getting a SunPass. All tolls in Florida are collected electronically if you don’t have a Sun Pass, you will be billed utilizing the TOLL-BY-PLATE system where you will be charged a $25 fee on top of the toll. Check the Florida Turnpike website for details.

About the Overseas Highway

The Miami to Key West drive then takes you through Islamorada and on to Anne’s Beach, Long Key, and Marathon until you reach Key West.

There are 42 bridges connecting 34 of the 800 keys from the mainland to Key West spanning 124 miles. The most famous bridge on the road trip from Miami to Key West is the Seven Mile Bridge at Marathon.

Overseas Highway to Key West History

Built in the 1930s the Overseas Highway followed the East Coast Railroad line which was damaged by a hurricane. Thanks to that feat of engineering, 3 million visitors make their way to the Florida Keys each year.

It’s easy to find attractions and things to do on the Overseas Highway by following the mile markers. The road is well-marked with Mile Marker Zero located in Key West. When driving south from Key Largo, you’ll be counting down from mile marker 106 letting you know how far you have to go to Key West. Nice!

Now that you have a bit of background on the highway, let’s see what there is to do on a Miami to Key West road trip.

Top Things to See on a Miami to Key West Road Trip

Our drive to Key West starts at the Miami airport where you can pick up your rental car to start this iconic road trip and drive all the way to the southernmost tip of the Continental United States in Key West. How cool is that? For rental car prices, you can compare rates at CarRentals.com

After landing at the Miami Airport, pick up your rental car ( a convertible is preferable) and start your trip in Florida’s most exciting city. No trip to South Florida would be complete without seeing the glitz and glamor of Miami.

Take a walk along the white sands of South Beach and explore the beautiful architectural designs of the Art Deco District. Don’t forget to drive your rental car along Ocean Drive and hop on a boat and take a tour of Millionaires Row. There’s a  popular cruise  that takes you by the estates, with great return views of the Miami skyline. And make sure to check out Miami’s nightlife.

This highly-rated tour includes  takes you through the glitz and glamor of the Art Deco District to see historical landmarks such as Versace’s decadent mansion and beloved Hollywood stops showcasing the likes of Miami Vice. For more Miami attractions, read our post Things to do in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami

Miami has been a leader in tourism in the United States for decades so there is something for every budget and travel type. But to get you started, here are a few of our recommendations.

• Mid-Range  – Right on the beach and along Ocean Drive, Marriott Stanton is a superb choice for traveling families. Make the most of two on-site pools, spas, saunas, and a gym with the beach and restaurants all within walking distance.  Check rates and reviews on Booking.com
• Luxury  – Occupying an entire city block, 1 Hotel South Beach is the epitome of Miami luxury. Soak in the expansive floor-to-ceiling ocean views, with exquisite decor and the largest rooftop pool in town.  Check rates and reviews on Booking.com
• Budget  – Miami isn’t a haven for budget travelers, but Hotel Shelley comes with cozy rooms with Art Deco charm. Enjoy modern amenities, free WiFi, and close to all the action.  Check rates and reviews on Booking.com

2. Everglades National Park

Since you are driving, you can make a detour from your Miami to Key West drive and see Everglades National Park. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an International Biosphere Reserve and is home to a number of endangered species including the Florida panther.

Located just 30 miles west of Miami, the Everglades National park is a wetland oasis primed for an eco-adventure and makes for a great stop on your Miami to Key West Road Trip. If you want to book a tour from Miami instead of driving, you can book this private tour to explore the immense 1.5 million acres.  Details here.

Everglades National Park also offers Airboat tours so you get to see all kinds of places while cruising through the water. The park also has trails and 4WD tours.  Read more: Best National Parks – USA Edition

Where to stay in Everglades

We suggest staying in Miami or Key Largo and making a day trip to Everglades National Park. But Florida City is a great stop to break up your Miami to Key West Drive and is close to both the Florida Keys and Everglades.

• Travelodge by Wyndham in Florida City is an affordable option excellent place to stay. It is located just off Highway 1 and makes for a great gateway to the Everglades and the Florida Keys.
• Home2 Suites by Hilton – Is another good choice in the heart of Florida City.

3. Key Largo

Things are getting exciting now. The first stop off the mainland from your Miami to Key West road trip is Key Largo. you can stay for a full vacation if you like! We did this during our first trip to the Florida Keys, and my brother did just last year when he took a long road trip all the way from Canada to Key West. They made a base in Key Largo and explored the surrounding islands and even did a full-day trip to Key West with Key Largo as their base.

Key Largo is pretty awesome. Movies and songs have been written about Key Largo, and soak in some of that nostalgia visit The Caribbean Club. The Caribbean Club is the oldest bar in the upper keys, dating back to 1938.

It has seen a lot of action over the decades, most notably hosting Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall as they filmed the movie Key Largo. It’s still a family-run business and a great place to stop for some Key Lime Pie, a Bloody Mary or to listen to some live music.

There are plenty of things to do in Key Largo, so we suggest spending at least the night here and checking out a few of the items we are about to mention as you follow along on this Miami to Key West road trip.

• Miami to Key Largo is approximately 70 miles and takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive.

4. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

If you are looking to have an adventure, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is one of the top things to do in Key Largo. It is home to the only living coral reef in the United States and if you want to explore underwater, this is the place to go.

What makes snorkeling or scuba diving different in Key Largo is that you can dive to see “Christ of the Abyss” a nine-foot-tall underwater statue of Christ located in just 25 feet of water off the coast of Key Largo.

Book this snorkeling tour from Key Largo – this half-day tour takes you to the most beautiful locations in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and Pennekamp State Park. Explore the coral reefs of Molasses, Elbow, French Reef, and the famous Christ of the Abyss on Dry Rocks.

Where to Stay in Key Largo

• Luxury –  Playa Largo Resort   – The Playa Largo Resort and Spa has luxury rooms, bungalows, and a beach house. You can book many Key West water sports at the hotel.
• Mid Range –  Key Largo Reefhous e Resort  – You can never go wrong with a Marriott. It’s our favorite mid to upper-range hotel chain. It has an onsite marina and dive shop offering plenty of water sports to book at the hotel.
• Budget –  Dove Creek Resort and Marina – This intimate boutique hotel was inspired by Caribbean Hemingway Hideaways. Located on the Atlantic Ocean, in Key Largo, Dove Creek lodge sits adjacent to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

5. The Fish House

A great stop for lunch is the Fish House to grab a staple Florida Keys dish of Conch Fritters, fish tacos, and Florida lobster and stone crab. It’s a great atmosphere and has been a Key Largo staple since 1982. We enjoyed a starter of coconut shrimp followed by a delicious portion of Mahi Mahi.

6. Alabama Jack’s

Another quirky place that can only be found en route to the Florida Keys is Alabama Jacks. Sitting between two barges in the mangroves, it is renowned for its conch fritters.

Popular with motorcyclists Alabama Jack’s is located under Card Sound Bridge which is the old toll road on an alternate route from Florida City. Instead of taking Highway 1, take 905A card sound road. But be warned, you need to have the cash to cross the toll bridge.

7. Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen

For a unique and delicious slice of Key Lime Pie head to Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen that was so good its become famous in the upper keys. You can order a whole key lime pie to go!

8. Islamorada Key

The next island on your Florida Keys Road Trip is Islamorada Key. We loved Islamorada Key so much, we wrote an entire article about all the things to do. Things to do in Islamorada . But just in case you don’t want to click off of our road trip itinerary, let’s go through all the things that you simply cannot miss.

We suggest spending a night on Islamorada Key to really enjoy its laid-back vibe. Scroll down to see why.

9. Robbie’s Marina

Robbies Marina is the place to be in Islamorada with watersports, restaurants, bars, and attractions, it is a place you can spend the entire day. Enjoy the day hanging out at Robbie’s Marina. There’s a great restaurant, outdoor shops and plenty of water sports leave from here.

10. Feed the Tarpon

A unique thing to do in Islamorada is to feed the tarpon at Robbie’s. After nursing an injured Tarpon way back in 1976, the friendly Tarpon named “Scarface” came back again and again for some food and to say hello. He eventually brought his friends and the tarpon have been coming to the docks ever since to leap out of the water for a tasty treat.

11. Parasailing

Parasailing in the Florida Keys is an amazing way to see the bridges and keys from above. It’s a gorgeous view to see the bridges spanning over blue waters with islands dotting the landscape.

You can make out the coral reefs and it truly is a blast. If you’ve never gone parasailing before, this is the place to do it. Parasailing with  Sundance Watersports . 

12. Other things to do on Islamorada

If you want to do some shopping, head into Rain Barrel Sculpture Gallery at Rain Barrel Village, it’s been one of the top Florida Keys destinations for more than 40 years. You can’t miss it, just look for the giant rock lobster out front.

If you are staying over or have a designated driver, don’t miss hitting the beer garden of the Florida Keys Brewing Company. We loved sampling their microbrews. The Florida Keys Brewing Company also has a vacation rental where you can stay. The owners are super friendly and get this, he’s Canadian!

Where to Stay in Islamorada

Islamorada is a great place to make a base before heading farther south. From here you can explore Duck Key, Lower Matecumbe Key to the South, and Plantation Key to the North.

• Postcard Inn at Holiday Isle – This is the most popular place to stay in Islamorada offering cottages and rooms with Marina and Atlantic Ocean views. There are water sports on site and you can book scuba diving, glass bottom boat tours, and snorkeling trips. It also has the popular Tiki Bar on the beach so even if you aren’t staying there, make sure to have a cocktail or slice of Key Lime Pie at this world-famous location.
• Hadley House Resort   – We stayed at Holiday House Resort a boutique resort with cottages. I would recommend staying at the building overlooking the water. Cottages are set back from the sea and the hotel building seemed much better. Your $25 resort fee covers the use of Stand up paddleboards and kayaks. There’s parking and a pool.

13. Marathon

Marathon is a city that spreads across several Florida Keys. Starting just past Duck Key it spans across seven keys: Knight’s Key, Boot Key, Key Vaca, Fat Deer Key, Long Point Key, Crawl Key, and Grassy Key islands.

From the Dolphin Research Center to Aquarium Encounters it has all the makings for a good family vacation. Marathon is also the gateway to Seven Mile Bridge and Pigeon Key Island.

There are some nice beaches on Marathon Key as well, Sombrero Beach and Coco Plum Beach are good places to hang out. And there is a dog park which is a good stop if you are traveling with pets. Read 18 Best Beaches in Florida for Fun in the Sun

Where to Stay on Marathon Key

Marathon has a lot of options for accommodation and is more affordable than Key West. You can find hotels ranging from luxury to budget. A lot of people take day trips to Key West from Marathon.

• Luxury – Isla Bella Beach Resort – A modern new luxury resort with five swimming pools, a spa, and a fitness center, and close to Seven Mile Bridge.
• Mid-Range – Kingsail Resort – This motel has kitchenettes to help save on food, a swimming pool, and free parking.
• Budget – Captain Pips at Knights Key

14. Turtle Hospital

What we recommend visiting is the Turtle Hospital. The Turtle Hospital is one of the most popular stops. This heartwarming stop lets you see the work that goes into the rehabilitation of injured sea turtles. We love supporting projects like this and proceeds for your guided tour and entrance go to help save the sea turtles. Read more: 10 Ways to Help Save the Oceans – World Oceans Day and Beyond

15. Keys Fisheries

Make sure to stop at Keys Fisheries for lunch. We enjoyed chillaxing on the outdoor patio. It’s a fast food joint where you order from a window and then find a picnic table in the packed restaurant. Get the grilled Mahi Mahi, Conch Chowder, or its signature dish, the Lobster Reuben.

16. Seven Mile Bridge

Leaving Marathon Key, Seven Mile Bridge is the largest segmental bridge in the world! This long bridge connects the upper Keys to the Lower Keys.

Make sure to take the ferry across to Pigeon Key which was a former work camp of the Florida East Coast Railway. You can catch the ferry over from Pigeon Key Gift Shop at mile marker 48.

17. Bahia Honda State Park and Big Pine Key

You have now entered the Lower Keys. You’ve made it farther than most, so keep going! Coming across 7 Mile Bridge, most people b-line it to Key West as it’s most likely been a long drive, but Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda State Park are two great places to stop for at least a few hours.

Did you know that there are wild deer in the Florida Keys? Big Pine Key houses the endangered Key deer, and they are protected by National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center. These small deer actually swim between islands!

If you like beaches, you are going to love Bahia Honda State Park. This state park has nearly fully recovered after Hurricane Irma but parts of the park are still being restored. Bahia Honda State Park has camping and two beaches of note. Sandspur Beach has reopened after Hurricane Irma and has restrooms and pavilions and Calusa Beach.

18. No Name Pub

While on Big Pine Key, stop for lunch at No Name Pub. This stop is worth it just to see the dollar bills hanging from its ceiling. No Name Pub dates back to 1931 when it was a fishing store. In 1936 they a restaurant was added and the No Name Pub was born.

19. Key West

Congratulations! You’ve made it to your final destination on your drive from Miami to Key West which is obviously Key West. Key West is a great place to spend a few days taking in the Caribbean atmosphere. Key West no longer feels like the United States, it feels like a little slice of the tropics.

20. Southernmost Point – Key West

The first thing most visitors do in Key West is head to the Southernmost Point marker. This is the southernmost point on mainland USA and everyone that makes it to Key West stops here for their required photo op.

21. Watch Sunset at Mallory Square, Key West

Mallory Square is one of the most happening places in Key West and it is an excellent spot to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of things to do in Mallory Square as well, so be sure to head over there during the day. If you are looking for a fun adventure, book a sunset tour on Aqua bikes to enjoy views of Sunset Key and Key West from the water. You can even bring two drinks with you.

• The Maritime Museum – The Mel Fisher Heritage Maritime Museum displays many artifacts from 17th-century ships.
• The Waterfront Playhouse – The longest-running theatre in Florida has nightly rotating shows all year long.
• Key West Shipwreck and Treasure Museum – There’s a 65-foot lookout tower, shipwreck artifacts, and actors recreating the 17th-century feel dressed in period clothing.  Book your ticket in advance  
• The Memorial Sculpture Garden is located directly in front paying tribute to famous patrons of the theatre and residents. Take a stroll through the lines of sculptures of famous residents including the busts of Ernest Hemingway, Harry S Truman, Tennessee Williams, and many other important people.

22. Party on Duval Street in Key West

It’s no secret that people come to Key West for partying, and Duval Street is the place to do it. You can go bar hopping all night long on Duval Street. Some of our favorites are Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, (no trip to Key West would be complete without visiting Jimmy Buffet’s) and the Hard Rock Cafe, Lucy’s Retired Surf Bar, Sloppy Joes, Virgillios, Rick’s Café, and our personal favorite The Wine O Bar and Lounge.

If you want to join a tour of Duval Street to see the top bars and restaurants while making new friends, check out  this fantastic pub crawl tour  that stops at five top rated pubs with a cocktail at each stop.

23. Get on the Water in Key West

Adventure lovers will enjoy Key West and if you don’t get on the water, you’ll be missing out. An excellent tour is to book an eco-tour to explore Key West Wildlife Refuge. Go kayaking through the mangroves, enjoy snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and enjoy a sail on an eco-friendly catamaran with Honest Eco Tours . 

• Book this top-rated  Sunset Tour tour here free from worries as tours can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.
• Look for more water and sunset tours here  with Get Your Guide to find your choice of floating bars, schooners, and catamarans that will take you out to watch the stunning sunsets. They offer last-minute bookings and full refunds on cancellations within 24 hours of the tour.

One of our favourite things to do in Key West was to visit the Located (113km) 70 miles from Key West, the Dry Tortugas is one of the most remote national parks in the United States. Read all about it at Our Key West Vacation with IHG Rewards Club Points

24. Go Dolphin Watching off the Coast of Key West

200  bottlenose dolphins  live in the warm waters off the Florida Keys and you can take a dolphin-watching tour or we had it as part of our Honest Eco Tour. When booking a dolphin or wildlife tour be sure to use a sustainable recognized tour operator like Honest Eco Tours based out of Key West or You Can book  this Dolphin Watch and Snorkeling Tour  in Advance.

25. Mile Marker 0 – Key West

Well, you made it! All the way to Mile Marker 0, the bottom of the United States. It is customary to grab a selfie at this sign located on Whitehead Street just south of Duval Street.

You’ve earned it. This is the end of the line and a popular place to make note that you have completed your drive from Miami to Key West. Wasn’t it amazing?

Dry Tortugas National Park

You may have reached mile marker 0 but do you want to keep this Miami to Key West road trip going a little longer? From Key West, you can reach one of the most remote national parks in the United States. Located (113km) 70 miles south of Key West, Dry Tortugas is a spectacular day trip.

Located in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, Dry Tortugas can only be reached by boat or seaplane. It was used as a fort between 1845 and 1876 to defend during the Spanish American War. You can take a day trip out to explore the island and beautiful sandy beaches and you can even camp overnight on Garden Key. Book this cruise from Key West to Dry Tortugas or you can book a flight to the national park as well.

Where to Stay in Key West

There are many places to stay in the Florida Keys from Key Largo to Key West. But in high season it can be nearly impossible to book a room without reservations. We suggest choosing one place to stay and making it your home base to explore the Keys.

La Concha Crown Plaza   is the perfect place to stay in the heart of the action, is located directly on Duval Street. The lobby is within walking distance from all the top key west attractions. There’s a pool for guests only. There is a luxurious rooftop spa and gorgeous sunset views. Check for Reviews and pricing on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

Perry Hotel Key West   is a quiet retreat on the marina of Stock Island. Stock Island is an extension of Key West that feels worlds away. This boutique hotel has elegant rooms overlooking the waterfront. What we loved about it was the local vibe. Check it out on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

See our full breakdown: Where to Stay in the Florida Keys

Once you are in the Florida Keys, it’s easy to explore. With Key Largo being the northernmost island, you may want to move on to Islamorada or Marathon. Key West is pricier than other keys, so you may want to choose a vacation rental on one of the smaller keys.

When to do a Road Trip to Key West from Miami

We have taken a road trip to Key West from Miami in October, November, and December. December is way too busy and you are going to have the highest prices.

November is a quieter time and the weather is great . You can also find more affordable accommodation and tours aren’t booked up.

December to February is the high season and you’ll have higher prices and a lot of crowds. But you are pretty much guaranteed good weather.

Late February to April is another good time to visit for lower rates and good weather.

June to November is hurricane season and it is important to plan accordingly. Hurricane Irma did extensive damage to the Florida Keys in 2017 but it has recovered nicely. This year Florida was hit by Hurricane Ian but the Florida Keys managed that hurricane quie well. That said, we’ve been to the Keys in October and had amazing weather. The summer months are hot and wet.

We were also in Key West for Fantasy Fest i n October. This is a busy time, but it is a unique time to visit to see the crazy characters that walk the streets.

The Miami to Key West drive time is 3 hours and 30 minutes without traffic.

It is absolutely worth it to drive from Miami to Key West. There are so many stops along the way that you can drive it in a day to taking a week to explore it all.

The best way to get to the southernmost point in the US mainland is to drive from Miami to Key West. However you can fly into Key West as well.

And these are our top stops on a drive from Miami to Key West . The Florida keys are so abundant, it will take several trips to really see them all. Let us know what we missed and we’ll be sure to add it on during our next rip.

Plan Your Road Trip to Florida the Florida Keys with these other Florida guides

• Daytona: Best Things to do in Daytona Beach, Florida
• Orlando: The 30 Best Things to do in Orlando – And Day Trips
• Key West : 27 of the Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida
• Islamorada : Things to do in Islamorada Florida Keys
• Central Florida: 10 Unique Things to Do in Central Florida
• Florida: the Best Places to Visit in Florida
• Florida Facts: Our Favorite Fun Facts About Florida
• Florida Fun : Best Theme Parks in Florida

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary: Explore the Best of Iceland in 10 Days

19 Best Road Trips in The US in 2024

The Essential Guide to the North Coast 500 Scotland

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

3 thoughts on “Miami to Key West Drive – Best Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary”

What a useful blog, this gives me great tips for playing in Miami, thanks for sharing it blogger!

My fiance and I did this drive in April, and it was just such the best time. We stopped at the Bahia Honda State Park too, and took some really cool photos of the bridges. Then we went to Big Pine and saw all the cute little key deer. Oh and we also stopped at Curry Hammock State Park which was just beautiful. Love your list of things to do!

I enjoyed the travelogue of some of my old stomping grounds. Glad to hear La Concha still is in business and apparently upgraded from when I stayed there nearly half a century ago. Do conch blowers and sword swallowers still congregate for a Mallory Square sunset? Any piece about the Keys, especially Key West, must include a visit to the original Sloppy Joe’s – Captain Tony’s Saloon – for its history of serving Ernest Hemingway, Jimmy Buffett, Tennessee Williams, etc. Also, though touristy, riding the Conch Train ( does it still operate?) is fun, especially for kids, and an easy way to see some of Key West’s landmarks. I thoroughly enjoyed the tour of Hemingway’s home, if that still is offered. Last, if you can afford it, the pricey Pier House is a great place to stay at Key West.

Pack your bags

Subscribe to my newsletter to get updates in your inbox!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Miami to Key West Road Trip: Perfect One Week Itinerary

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Headed on a Miami to Key West road trip for your next vacay?  If the idea of driving to an island blows your mind, then you are in for some excitement. It’s a known fact that making the drive from the U.S. mainland over the various bridges connecting the Florida Keys is a truly unforgettable and unique experience. 

Even writing about this trip puts me in such a good mood. It’s a combination of many things I love: tropical vibes, road trips, and even historical sights. The moment I learned it was possible to drive the 159 miles between Miami and Key West, I knew this road trip was in my future. Especially since both Miami and Key West are both such awesome places to explore!

I found that spending a little bit of time in both Miami and Key West gives you the best of two different worlds.  Miami is the faster paced, more energetic portion, while Key West slows things back down for a calm finish. And of course, the road trip is the scenic buffer in between!

If you are in desperate need of a getaway, a road trip from Miami to Key West is just what you need.  This is a vacation that will bring you both adventure and relaxation, with the occasional dose of key lime pie and rum punch.  With that, let’s get into how to plan an unforgettable Miami to Key West road trip with this dreamy one week itinerary.

Ultimate Miami to Key West Road Trip Itinerary

Up front, I want to say that this is not really a party itinerary for either Key West or Miami.  Don’t get me wrong – my husband and I are all for a little bar hopping, but we rarely make it out past midnight. In fact, I’ve more so come to love being a morning person, and having the quiet streets to myself before the rest of the world rises.

As this is a seven day Miami & Key West itinerary, it’s a good idea to pace yourself anyhow.  You can still find some great people watching, without actually partaking in Miami’s crazy (and expensive) club scene. 

Table of Contents:

Best Time of Year for a Miami to Key West Road Trip

Getting around miami beach & key west, where to stay in miami beach & key west, part i: 3 days in miami beach.

• Part II: Road Trip from Miam i to Key West

Part III: 4 Days in Key West

Miami and Key West tend to have sunshine and warmth all year round. However, summer weather can get scorchingly hot and humid, and early fall brings hurricanes. Therefore, December through May is the ideal timeframe for planning a Miami to Key West road trip.

It is very easy to get around both Miami Beach and Key West by walking, biking, or ordering an Uber. The only time you will need a car on this entire trip is for the round trip drive from Miami to Key West.

Stay in a classy Art Deco hotel on the water.  When you aren’t out strolling the streets of Miami, you could lounge at your hotel’s pool, or grab a couple of your hotel’s chairs along the beach. 

The Savoy Boutique Hotel is a great option, and we personally loved our stay here. We found great room prices for our late May trip when we booked it with our flight on Expedia. We were also excited to have our room upgraded upon arrival to an ocean view suite. It could be a coincidence, but we have always been upgraded whenever we’ve booked on Expedia without even asking!

Key West is the perfect place to grab an Airbnb or vacation rental on VRBO . If that’s not quite your style, there are plenty of hotel and bed and breakfast options. However, lodging in Key West can get rather expensive.

My husband and I stayed in the Old Town Garden Villas , and had our own condo, which was nice and spacious for the two of us. It was tucked back on a quiet side street, but also very well located, being just a block from Duval, a five minute walk from the Ernest Hemingway House, and an eight minute walk from the Southernmost Point.

It also had a kitchen, which is great for saving money and preparing your own meals, as well as a small dipping pool to cool off from the hot sun. Most of all, we loved the convenience of being able to easily walk or bike to everything.

Travel Savvy Tip

Want to know how we never check bags for vacations, including this one? Take a look at my beach trip packing list , which includes all the essentials that you’ll need in your carry-on.

Day 1: Arrival in Miami Beach

On the day you arrive into Miami, you’ll mostly be getting settled in. Therefore, I wouldn’t plan on squeezing in too much sightseeing. Just treat anything you do manage to see as a bonus.

-Dinner in Miami-

What you may have time for is some good food. Since my husband and I arrived into Miami around 3:14 p.m, and only had a twenty minute taxi to The Savoy Hotel, we made a dinner reservation at Joe’s Stone Crab , which is known to be a Miami Beach institution.

If you are visiting from October to May, you too will be able to check this place out. However, be ready to spend some dough. My husband and I were on a tight budget, and I don’t think our limited spending allowed us to fully enjoy this place. If you are on a budget like we were, your money will likely go further elsewhere.

-Evening People Watching on Ocean Drive-

If you have any steam left, find a perch on Ocean Drive for some people watching. One of my favorite moments during our trip was chilling at a Miami Beach sports bar on Ocean Drive, when the flashy club-goers were just getting primed for the evening.  We watched as luxury car after luxury car slowly rolled by, music bumping, and we could definitely feel the energy of the evening beginning to unfold.

Ocean Drive can be a nightmare to drive down at certain times of the day.  While Ubers are highly accessible in Miami, often times walking is a more time efficient option.  For distances that are too far to walk, still order an Uber or taxi, but just have them drop you off once you get within walking distance, as traffic truly is that slow.

Day 2: Miami Beach

-take a morning walk-.

Mornings in Miami are quiet and peaceful, in contrast to the rowdy night scene where the bars stay open until 5:00 a.m..  This is the perfect time to take a walk in Miami Beach, and you won’t be alone.  Many residents of South Beach are dedicated to maintaining their physiques, and you’ll see plenty of people out doing their workouts.

Full transparency – Miami is not all glamour. Like any other big city, Miami has its share of poverty, and you will sadly see some people sleeping in small parks along Ocean Drive.

Miami Beach is famous for its Art Deco style buildings along Ocean Drive.  My favorite thing we did in Miami Beach was simply walking along this famous area, and taking in the scenery and vibe.  Being that it was May during my visit, the sun was shining and the weather was perfect for being outside.

-Breakfast Followed By Beach Time-

Hands down, one of my favorite places we checked out in Miami was Under the Mango Tree . If you love green juice and smoothie bowls like me, then this will absolutely be the place for you. We liked it so much, we came here every morning during our stay in Miami Beach.

After this delightful start to your day, spend the afternoon relaxing either poolside at your hotel, or check out the expansive beach. If you are staying on Ocean Drive, chances are that your hotel will set you up with some beach chairs and an umbrella. The beach in Miami is large in both width and length, and is perfect for long walks or tossing a football.

-Head Out for Dinner-

If you are traveling as a couple and seeking something formal for a romantic date night, consider making reservations for Pied a Terre . This high-end French restaurant is located in the ambient Cadet boutique hotel, and is sure to please the most refined of palates.

If you’d like a more unique, cultural experience, then head to Miami Beach’s vibrant Little Havana neighborhood. It’s full of charm, great food, and hip bars that will keep you entertained into the wee hours of the night. If you’re going to pick one place, then head to Sanguich de Miami for Cuban sandwiches with batidos, or Cuban milkshakes.

Day 3: Miami Beach

It’s your last day in Miami Beach before heading down to Key West. Hopefully you wake up well-rested and hang-over free!

I recommend either taking it easy again today with another beach/pool day, or heading out for a little shopping. I personally recommend taking full advantage of the beach while you can, as Key West’s rocky and largely man-made beaches simply will not measure up.

-Do Some Shopping-

If you’d like to do a little shopping during your time in Miami, just a couple streets over from Ocean Drive is Collins Avenue. This street is lined with popular retail shops, such as Club Monaco and Sephora.

An even better place to check out is the Lincoln Road Mall, which was only about 1.5 miles from our hotel. This beautiful outdoor mall contains a wide selection of shops and restaurants, including our favorite: Doraku Sushi .

-Sushi For Dinner-

After an afternoon at the beach or perusing the shops at Lincoln Road Mall, you’ll surely work up an appetite. End up at Doraku (at Lincoln Road Mall) in time for dinner, and enjoy some mouth-wateringly good sushi rolls.

For your last evening, check out the vibe on Ocean Drive, and maybe pop into a souvenir shop or two. My husband and I found ourselves at a sports bar called Finnegan’s Way, where we watched the Cavs lose a playoff game to Toronto before drowning our sorrows with a quick stop at Gelato-Go on the way home. There may or may not have been a subsequent delivery order placed for Insomnia Cookies. I can neither confirm nor deny.

Part II: Miami to Key West Road Trip

Now for the adventurous part of the trip: driving south over 40 bridges through the Florida Keys on Highway 1 (aka the Overseas Highway).  The trip ends when there is no more highway left to drive.

The road trip between Miami and Key West is the only time during the trip that you’ll need a rental car. We found it easiest to pick up a rental car from the airport before leaving Miami. That way, we could simply drive straight back to the airport from Key West at the end of our trip, and head to security before our flight.

The road trip from Key West to Miami is a three and a half hour drive as a straight shot. However, this will also depend on traffic and how often you stop. I have listed some places to check out along the way to Key West that are totally worth your while.

Miami to Key West Road Trip Stops:

I have listed the below stops in the order that you’ll see them on the drive down to Key West, as well as the required drive time between each one. The journey down Highway 1 is one of the most relaxing and scenic drives you will ever do, so keep your camera ready and enjoy the ride.

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Drive 1 hour and 8 minutes to Key Largo): Kayak through mangrove trails or take a glass bottom boat tour over coral reef habitats. We loved paddling in these incredibly gentle waters, and even got to see a couple dolphins. Single kayak rentals are $20 per hour, or $40 for four hours.
• Island Grill (Drive 27 minutes to Islamorada): Stop here for a drink with a view in order to instantly enter vacation mode. Also, an order of the tuna nachos is a must!
• Bahia Honda State Park (Drive 1 hour and 3 minutes to Bahia Honda Key): Stretch your legs in gorgeous scenery, including white sand beaches and the remnants of an old bridge. This is an awesome place to simply walk around, or do a little swimming and snorkeling. Entry is $8 per vehicle; be mindful that the eastern facing beaches do see sargassum seaweed in the spring/summer months.
• Hogfish Bar & Grill (Drive 40 minutes to Stock Island): This laid-back eatery is located next to a marina. Listen to live music while devouring their specialty: fried hogfish, which is caught locally. They also make really good cocktails, like my excellent skinny margarita.

From there, it’s just another fifteen minutes or so to the action in Key West.

Road Tunes:

You’ll of course want to have a fun playlist for a road trip as epic as this one. Here is the perfect tropical playlist , which you can feel free to use or pull from for inspo.

The Key West portion is when I felt like our trip began to turn into a vacation.  Miami was fast-paced, with lots of partying and emphasis on looking good, shopping, and fancy cars. 

That all began to fall away when we started our drive down through the Keys.  The shops and strip malls began to give way to bridges and irresistibly calm turquoise water.  The tropical vacation vibes were growing stronger with each mile.

Arriving into Key West, aka The Conch Republic, was a relief.  I felt myself stop obsessing about what I looked like, and welcomed the laid back atmostphere.  Nachos were consumed, and I downed the likes of rum punch and pina colada left and right.  Key West simply won’t allow you to do anything but have a good time!

Day 4: Arrival in Key West

-settle in and rent bikes-.

Your arrival day in Key West is all about adjusting to your new surroundings and getting a lay of the land. Before all else, check into your new lodging and get your bearings.

The next step is to rent bikes as your primary mode of transportation for the duration of your stay. While you have your rental car available, you won’t need it on this small island. Plus, traffic is congested and parking can be tricky (though not impossible). My husband and I rented bikes from A&M Scooters for about $97 total to use over four days.

-Find Some Dinner-

Once you’re settled, it’s time to find food. Make your way to DJ’s Clam Shack , which is right in the heart of Duval Street, or Key West’s main drag.

DJ’s Clam Shack is a tiny outdoor restaurant that has been featured on Diners Drive-In’s & Dives. Sometimes these places end up being overrated, but not this one.

First of all, the restaurant was still quite low key, and not overrun by tourists at all. Second, their food was mouthwateringly good. It is mandatory to try their super-stuffed lobster roll and conch fritters – you won’t be disappointed!

-Drinks on Duval-

Afterwards, why not stroll down Duval Street and see what there is to see? There are a ton of bars lining this street, so here are two suggestions to help you decide where to start:

• Rum Bar : This small bar serves awesome rum cocktails, including my St. John favorite: the painkiller . Any place that gives a nod to the Virgin Islands is alright in my book. On our latest trip, we came here every day to sit on the porch with our drinks and people watch.
• Sloppy Joe’s : This old Key West standby is known for its famous regular: Ernest Hemingway, as well as piña coladas and live music. It’s also very loud in there, so don’t go if you were hoping for hours of catching up with an old friend.

Key West feels very Caribbean, but is not technically in the Caribbean Sea.  There is the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west.  South of Key West are the straights of Florida, which connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.

Day 5: Key West

For your first full day in Key West, it’s time to get into the good stuff. We’re talking landmarks, history, and majorly ambient restaurants. Find yourself some breakfast and coffee, and let’s get to it.

-Visit the Southernmost Point-

Get to the “Southernmost Point of the continental United States” landmark early to enter the quick-moving line for your photo. This is simply one of those things that are a “must-do” on any trip to Key West. Even though waiting in line for a simple photo is annoying, I must say people were very courteous about taking their turn and snapping group photos for one another.

-Tour the Ernest Hemingway House-

To get in your slice of history for this trip, visit the ever-so-charming Ernest Hemingway House , where he lived with his second wife, Pauline, for almost ten years. You’ll get to see the studio Hemingway kept above the carriage house, where he’d spend his mornings writing.

The Ernest Hemingway House is also famous for being home to generations of six-toed cats. Keep a lookout for these little fellas and pay your respects to those who went before at the cat cemetery.

-Visit the Key West Lighthouse-

Continue your morning sightseeing by making your way over to the Key West Lighthouse – just one minute from the Hemingway House. This lighthouse has been in service since 1848, and had the highly unusual circumstance of a female lighthouse keeper. Today, you can tour the grounds, and even climb the 88 steps to the top.

-Dinner at Latitudes-

Making reservations for Latitudes on Sunset Key is an absolute MUST for any Key West trip. This open air restaurant by the water is loaded with ambience and has an amazing menu. Our dinner here was definitely one of the best experiences we had on our trip.

To get to Latitudes, simply take the quick shuttle from Slip #29, behind the Opal Key Resort & Marina. This short ride gives you the extra bonus of being on the water for a second.

-Grab a Couple Drinks-

Our first trip to Key West had a bit of a sports theme, with the Cavs being in the Eastern Conference Finals against Toronto. Therefore, we had to find a bar with a good game-watching atmosphere.

If that’s something you’re after during your trip, I highly recommend Sandbar Sports Grill or Jack Flats . They both have the perfect setup, with plenty of TV’s so that you don’t miss the big game while on vacation.

Day 6: Key West

-watch the sunrise-.

Sunrises and sunsets in Key West are legendary, and you need to experience both during your trip. For the optimal sunrise viewing, rise early enough to head to Higgs Beach Park for its pier with a perfect, unobstructed view of the horizon.

-Indulge in Some Donuts-

Glazed Donuts is the place to hit up for your donut fix in Key West. Just be sure to get there early, or they may sell out.

We ordered the Cuban coffee, blueberry cheesecake, and key lime donuts, and they were ridiculously good, with a nice chew. We actually liked the key lime donut better than many of the key lime pies we tried!

-Have Some Beach Time-

Although Key West is not widely touted for its beaches, they do exist there. Our favorite was at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

The beach there has fluffy white sand, and is large enough to fit plenty of visitors. It is also in a more natural environment, being removed from the action and traffic of Key West, and has lots of trees for shade.

There are chairs and umbrellas available for rent at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, as well as a concession stand for snacks and refreshments. Also, this park is an excellent location for watching the sunset. Entry is $6 per vehicle.

-Sunset Sail-

This day will lead up to a sunset sail with Danger Charters at 6:30 p.m. where you will see a sunset like no other.  This is one of the most fun things you could do in Key West . 

During our trip, the water was so still that we couldn’t even sail, and the boat had to use its motor.  In these relaxed conditions, the wine was flowing and we ate so many snacks. 

After this, we had a good time at Schooner Wharf .  I simply love this divey seaside spot for its harborside location, stiff drinks, and fried conch fritters. You could just picture the saltiest of sailors enjoying this type of place after being relieved of their duties for the day. 

-Dessert at Better Than Sex-

End your evening with the ultimate indulgent experience at Better Than Sex .  This dessert restaurant makes decadent, downright sinful desserts, such as Man Flowers (dense chocolate stout cake) and Blueberry Birthday Suit (dessert French Toast).

Day 7: Key West

Although the sun is starting to set on this Key West trip, we’re not quite finished yet. There are still some great places to see before your time in the tropics is done.

-Brunch at Blue Heaven-

You cannot go to Key West without stopping at Blue Heaven for brunch and key lime pie. This colorful place perfectly encompasses Key West with its vibrance, laid back vibes, chickens freely clucking about, and excellent food. I can confirm that both the pineapple pancakes and key lime pie with its tall meringue were winners!

Can’t make it for brunch? Blue Heaven is also great for dinner, and accepts limited reservations. They even have live music most nights of the week.

-Harry S. Truman Little White House-

It’s time for one more little peak into history before leaving Key West. Although visited by other presidents, this site was most heavily used by President Harry S. Truman as his winter White House throughout his presidency. Truman ultimately spent 172 days here, where he would contemplate the issues of the time following World War II.

Today the Little White House is open every single day of the year for touring. Admission ain’t cheap at $22.20 a person, but it’s worth it to see Key West beyond just the bars and festivities.

-Watch the Sunset at Mallory Square-

Don’t leave Key West without partaking in this nightly tradition that dates back to the late 1960’s. Every night, about two hours before sunset, Mallory Square hosts a “Sunset Celebration”.

Not only is this an amazing spot to watch the gorgeous orange glow of the sunset over the horizon, but there are also festivities to partake in before the main event. This includes the likes of street performers and local vendors, who add to the energy building up to sunset.

-Grab Dinner-

On your last night in Key West, head to Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon . This fun outdoor spot features live music, a full bar, and the Garbo’s Grill food truck in the back of the property.

Garbo’s Grill serves delicious tacos, poke bowls, and their signature lobster roll. If you visit during happy hour (4 pm to 7 pm or 10 pm to midnight) you can sample three of their tacos for just $11.

Departure Day

It’s time to finally free up the parking spot you’ve been hoarding, and make your journey back through the Florida Keys to Miami. Depending on how early you need to leave, you may have a little time to sit and eat breakfast before you depart.

If you feel in need of a cleanse after all you’ve consumed during this trip, the Green Pineapple Cafe is the perfect stop. Their green smoothies and salads will have you feeling good as new!

Have More Time?

If you have another day available to spend in Key West, then I highly recommend a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park . It is uniquely situated seventy miles west of Key West, in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico. The island is a cool place to spend the day at a gorgeous isolated beach and explore historic Fort Jefferson.

You can arrive either by ferry or seaplane. We made our visit via seaplane, and the views couldn’t have been more incredible.

So was that an epic Florida adventure or what? With seeing two such different places as Miami and Key West, this trip is bound to feel like more than a week.

The road trip from Miami to Key West is a unique opportunity to make a driving journey over islands and bridges, with the calmest waters of the Gulf and Atlantic that you’ll ever see. It’s definitely a trip that is worthy of any bucket list!

Will you be making the memorable drive between Miami and Key West soon?

Related Posts

Loving this post!! Your writing is so clever and funny too. We just got to key west after following your Miami tips. Thank you!!

Love to hear it! Hope you have the best time!

Love your post and pictures! Driving from Miami to the Keys in January. I have one question: Do you keep your rental car the whole time you are on the Keys? I think we will be walking most of the time. Thanks in advance 🙂

Thank you! I definitely see your point here. We kept our car for the whole four days we were there, but you’re right – we didn’t use it at all. I suppose you could see about dropping it off upon arrival and picking up a new rental car when you are ready to drive back. It does seem like most rental car agencies are on the outskirts of the city though, so you’d have to weigh the cost of Ubering vs. paying for your car on those days. Plus, the extra time those extra steps would take. Hope that helps!

We are heading out on our first drive to Key West. Land inMiami and want to stay one night on the way down. What hotel would be your suggestion? Just two adults on the first get away in a year!

So excited for you! While I have never personally stayed in any Florida Keys besides Key West, I suggest deciding based on how you’d like to split the drive. If you’d like to do the full Overseas Highway in one day, I suggest staying in Key Largo, which has a lot of hotel options, before making the rest of your way down. If you’d like to break up the drive though the Keys, Islamorada is another good stop several hotel options, and just under two hours from Key West. Hope that helps!

Thank you for sharing! I was wondering about how much did you end up paying for this whole 1 week itinerary – what would be a good estimate of the budget? 🙂

This Miami to Key West Road Trip guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

Thank you for such a detailed itinerary! My fiancé and I are getting married next year and we are thinking about making this our honeymoon trip 😄 Your post will definitely be our guide.

Thank you so much! 🙂

Love all of this! We are thinking this for our honeymoon and this itinerary really helped! What was the total cost for this trip not including airfare since that depends on where you are flying from.

Thanks Jessica! It’s an awesome destination for a honeymoon. I will need to do a little math and get back to you. I’m on the road, and can’t get the numbers right away, but will circle back in a few days. 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Perfect 3 Days In Key West Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: June 24, 2024

Check out our ultimate 3 days in Key West itinerary, including all the highlights of this stunning destination in the Florida Keys!

Key West , the southernmost city in the continental United States, is known for its irresistible charm, vibrant culture, and tropical allure.

With colorful conch-style houses, historic landmarks, and vibrant sunsets, this island paradise captivates visitors with its unique blend of Caribbean influence and American flair.

From the lively energy of Duval Street’s bars and restaurants to the beauty of its secluded beaches, Key West offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler.

To help you plan your exploration of the Florida Keys, we’ve created the ultimate Key West itinerary for those who have 3 days in Key West. This convenient itinerary outlines the best parts of the area and even includes fun day trips and excursions.

Whether indulging in fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, exploring the eclectic art scene, or snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, there are so many amazing things to do with 3 days in Key West!

Find more things to do nearby with our list of the 20 BEST Things to Do in Key West, Florida .

Table of Contents

Southernmost Point Buoy

Key west butterfly and nature conservatory, key west lighthouse, ernest hemingway home and museum, afternoon: fort zachary taylor historic state park, evening: duval street, morning: day trip to dry tortugas national park, key west historic seaport, mallory square, key west aquarium, truman little white house, evening: sunset cruise, morning: dolphin watching and snorkelling tour, afternoon: smathers beach, evening: kermit’s key lime shoppe, the best time to visit key west, how to get around key west, best budget accommodation: blue marlin motel, best mid-range accommodation: truman hotel, best luxury accommodation: oceans edge key west, 3 days in key west itinerary.

Here is our ultimate 3 days in Key West itinerary! Whether you’re a Florida local looking to explore more of the Sunshine State , or you’re an international guest on an exciting Florida Keys road trip , 3 days in Key West is sure to be an adventure for you.

On the first day of your Key West itinerary, explore the heart of the island. The Old Town is the most captivating part of Key West, so you’ll spend the entire day and night down here taking in all the sights.

You can explore most of these Old Town attractions on foot, or you can cover more ground by booking a bicycle tour . Either way, have a blast exploring the heart of Key West on the first day of your 3 days in Key West itinerary!

Morning: Historic District Attractions

Here are some of the top sights to include in your exploration of the Old Town, from the Southernmost Point to the Key West Lighthouse and more. We’ve listed them in order of location so you can conveniently walk from one attraction to the next.

The Southernmost Point Buoy is an iconic symbol of Key West’s unique geographical location and is a must-visit landmark for travelers exploring the island.

Situated at the southernmost point of the continental United States, this colorful buoy marks the spot where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico.

Visitors flock to this beloved landmark to snap photos with the buoy, which is adorned with vibrant colors and markings indicating its distance from various locations, including Havana, Cuba, and the North Pole.

Another fun place to check out near the Southernmost Point is the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory .

This serene sanctuary is home to thousands of colorful butterflies from around the globe, flitting gracefully amidst tropical flowers and cascading waterfalls in a lush, climate-controlled habitat.

As visitors wander through the winding pathways, they are immersed in the sights, sounds, and scents of this magical ecosystem, encountering exotic species such as the vibrant Blue Morpho and the delicate Monarch butterfly.

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory provides a captivating opportunity for nature lovers of all ages to marvel at natural beauty in Key West.

Plan to visit Miami first? Here is our ultimate Miami To Key West Road Trip Itinerary !

The Key West Lighthouse , an iconic maritime landmark, rises majestically above the historic streets of Key West, providing travelers with a glimpse into the island’s rich maritime history. Originally built in 1825 to guide ships through the treacherous waters surrounding the island, the lighthouse stands as a testament to Key West’s heritage.

Today, visitors can climb the 88 steps to the top of the tower, where they are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the vibrant rooftops of Old Town Key West.

With its historic charm and stunning views, the Key West Lighthouse provides a captivating opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s maritime past and gain a newfound appreciation for its timeless beauty.

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum celebrates the prolific writer’s time spent in Key West and showcases remnants of his life and legacy.

Situated amidst lush tropical gardens in the heart of Old Town Key West, you can explore the Spanish colonial-style home where Hemingway lived and worked from 1931 to 1939. Guided tours lead visitors through the meticulously preserved interiors, showcasing the author’s personal belongings, furniture, and mementos.

With its rich history, timeless charm, and resident population of six-toed cats, the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum offers a unique and immersive experience that celebrates the legacy of one of the 20th century’s most iconic literary figures.

Next on your 3 days in Key West itinerary, walk about 15 minutes down to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park .

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is situated along the southern coast of Key West. It’s home to a 19th-century fortress that was built to defend Key West’s strategic harbor. You can walk through the interpretive exhibits and enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking on the park’s pristine sandy beaches.

With its tropical landscapes, panoramic ocean views, and historic attractions, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is an amazing place to visit in beautiful Key West.

Exploring more of the Sunshine State? Read our list of the 25 Best Things To Do In Florida !

As the sun begins to set, take to the streets of Key West and fully indulge in the evening energy! Duval Street, the vibrant heart of Key West, pulsates with excitement, offering visitors an eclectic mix of entertainment, dining, shopping, and nightlife.

Stretching for just over a mile from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, this iconic thoroughfare is lined with historic buildings, colorful storefronts, and charming cafes, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere that captivates visitors day and night.

There are street performers, live music, nightclubs, bars, and even a nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square near the end of Duval Street. You can dance the night away, go bar hopping, or just grab a nice dinner and stroll around.

From savoring fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants to sampling tropical cocktails at lively bars or maybe grabbing a slice of famous key lime pie, Duval Street is the perfect place to end a day of sightseeing during 3 days in Key West.

It’s day 2 of your Key West itinerary! Hopefully you didn’t get too crazy on the popular Duval Street last night because today is going to be an amazing day of adventures. In the morning explore Dry Tortugas National Park, then do more sightseeing around the Key West waterfront and finish off with a lovely sunset sail.

Today you’re taking a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, located approximately 70 miles west of Key West. It’s pretty far so you might want to get up early and turn it into a day trip.

But you really don’t want to visit this place while visiting the Florida Keys! Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote and pristine paradise consisting of seven small islands and their surrounding waters.

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this protected marine sanctuary is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers, divers, and nature enthusiasts.

At the heart of the park lies Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century coastal fortress and one of the largest masonry structures in the Western Hemisphere. Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Fort Jefferson offers visitors the opportunity to explore its historic ramparts, artillery batteries, and underground passages while learning about its fascinating role in American history.

In addition to its rich history and unparalleled snorkeling and diving opportunities, Dry Tortugas National Park has pristine beaches and secluded coves where you can soak in the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.

With its remote location, stunning landscapes, and abundant recreational opportunities, Dry Tortugas National Park offers a unique and unforgettable wilderness experience for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature in one of America’s most remote and pristine national parks.

Find out more about how to visit Dry Tortugas National Park on the National Parks website !

Afternoon: Explore the waterfront

When you arrive back after your time in Dry Tortugas National Park, you might be pretty tired but you still have a sunset cruise tonight. You can spend whatever free time you have strolling around the Key West waterfront and checking out some attractions or just grabbing food or drinks at a restaurant. If you are up for more sightseeing, here are some of the top sights to check out.

The Key West Historic Seaport is a vibrant and historic hub of the area. Steeped in maritime history dating back to the 19th century, the seaport is home to a picturesque collection of wooden docks, historic buildings, and colorful fishing boats that evoke the island’s rich heritage.

This is a great place to just go for a walk, grab some food, and relax by the water. If you have more than 3 days in Key West, you can also come down here to book sailing excursions, fishing charters, and kayak rentals.

The Key West Historic Seaport offers a range of recreational activities and experiences that celebrate the island’s deep connection to the sea, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and maritime traditions of Key West.

Read next: 2-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary

You may have already visited Mallory Square on your night of bar hopping! If not, definitely make time to check out this exciting plaza located at the western end of Key West’s historic Old Town during your itinerary.

Renowned for its nightly Sunset Celebration, Mallory Square comes alive each evening with live music, street performers, and vendors selling local crafts and cuisine, creating a festive atmosphere that draws locals and visitors alike.

Not far from Mallory Square is the Key West Aquarium , one of the oldest aquariums in Florida! The aquarium provides a unique opportunity to encounter a wide array of marine life native to the region, including colorful tropical fish, graceful stingrays, and majestic sharks.

Through interactive exhibits and informative presentations, visitors can learn about the delicate balance of the coral reef ecosystem, the importance of marine conservation, and the fascinating behaviors of the creatures that inhabit these underwater worlds.

With its educational programs, touch tanks, and immersive experiences, the Key West Aquarium invites visitors of all ages to discover the wonders of the ocean right in the heart of the Florida Keys.

Explore more of the Florida Keys with a visit to Key Largo !

The Truman Little White House is a historic landmark that offers a fascinating look into the lives of past presidents and the rich history of the Florida Keys.

Originally constructed as naval officer housing in 1890, the building served as President Harry S. Truman’s winter White House during his presidency.

Today, visitors can explore the meticulously preserved rooms and grounds, which have been restored to reflect their appearance during Truman’s tenure.

Through guided tours and informative exhibits , guests can learn about Truman’s presidency, his personal life, and the significant events that occurred during his time in office.

Finish off this amazing day in the Florida Keys with a sunset sail with food and drinks . You can watch nature put on a show, cruise around the calm, tropical waters of the Florida Keys, and indulge in some food, drinks, and socialization.

A sunset sail is the perfect way to end any day in Florida!

On the final day of your 3 days in Key West, join an adventurous tour that includes some water sports so you can embrace the sunny weather and marine life of the Florida Keys. Choose from a dolphin watching and snorkelling tour, a kayaking tour, or a jetski tour, then finish off the afternoon at Smathers Beach and get some key lime pie to wrap up the weekend.

While exploring the Florida Keys, make sure you take ample time to frolic in the warm, tropical waters. Spot marine life such as dolphins or sea turtles, soak in the Florida sunshine, and just have lots of fun!

A popular option is a Dolphin watching and snorkelling eco tour of Key West. You’ll cruise around the Florida Keys and your guide will take you to spots where dolphins are often playing in the waves.

Snorkel and explore the underwater world as well so you can fully appreciate the beauty of Key West!

Another option is a jet ski tour , perfect for those who love adrenaline and fast-paced sports. Or if you prefer a more mellow tour for your weekend in Key West, join a kayak tour and paddle around the stunning Key West coastline.

After your exciting morning of water sports and marine life, kick back on Smathers Beach. This beautiful location stretches along the southern shore of Key West and is a picturesque haven of sun, sand, and surf.

As the largest public beach on Key West, Smathers Beach has soft white sands and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports.

With its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and vibrant atmosphere, Smathers Beach captures the essence of island paradise.

If you’re not in the mood to be a beach bum, you could also check out the nearby Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Gardens . Spread across 15 acres, the gardens showcase a rich diversity of plant life, including rare and endangered species native to the Florida Keys.

Visitors can wander along shaded pathways, discovering a colorful array of flowering plants, towering palms, and exotic trees, while listening to the soothing sounds of nature.

To finish off your action-packed 3 days in Key West, get some of the best key lime pie in the Florida Keys. Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shoppe is a beloved culinary institution in Key West celebrated for its iconic Key lime pies and irresistible sweet treats.

Using traditional recipes passed down through generations, Kermit’s pies are crafted with locally sourced Key lime juice, resulting in a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.

Beyond its signature pies, the shop offers an array of Key lime-infused treats, from cookies and candies to sauces and marinades.

With its charming ambiance and delectable offerings, Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shoppe embodies the essence of Key West’s culinary heritage, and is the best place to taste a classic key lime pie.

See more of Florida’s East Coast with a visit to Fort Lauderdale !

Key West Travel Guide

Now that we’ve covered how to spend a weekend in Key West, here are some helpful travel tips that will help you plan your trip. From the best months to visit, to tips for getting around and accommodation recommendations, you’re well-equipped for the perfect weekend in Key West!

The best time to visit Key West largely depends on your own preferences. Because it’s located in the Florida Keys, the weather is tropical and you can visit year-round! But certain seasons bring a different vibe and temperature to Key West, and many travelers find that the period from late fall to early spring has the best weather.

From November to April, Key West experiences mild temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, sailing, and exploring the island’s historic sites and natural wonders.

Additionally, this time of year sees fewer crowds and lower humidity levels in the Florida Keys, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s attractions and beaches without feeling overwhelmed by tourists.

While the summer months from June to August can bring warmer temperatures and higher humidity, they also offer opportunities for exciting events and festivals, including the Key West Hemingway Days and the Key Lime Festival.

Despite the occasional afternoon shower, summer in Key West is still a popular time to visit for those seeking lively nightlife, vibrant street performances, and water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing.

Additionally, hotel rates may be lower during the summer months, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Ultimately, the best time to explore Key West depends on your own travel style, but each season offers its own unique charm and opportunities for exploration.

Definitely, the best way to get around during your weekend in Key West is to have your own car. If you don’t already have a car, consider renting one in Key West! Alternatively, you can rent a car somewhere in mainland Florida, like Miami or Orlando, and do an epic Key West road trip.

There are other options for visiting Key West without a car as well. Getting around Key West is relatively easy and convenient, with various transportation options available to suit every traveler’s needs.

Many visitors opt to explore the island on foot or by renting bicycles, allowing them to navigate the charming streets of Old Town and discover hidden gems at their own pace.

Additionally, the Key West Transit system operates buses that connect popular attractions throughout the island, providing an affordable and convenient way to get around. For those looking to explore further afield or visit neighboring islands, taxis and rideshare services are readily available.

Renting a scooter or electric car offers a fun and efficient way to explore the narrow streets and iconic landmarks of Key West. Or you can book a Hop on hop off Old Town trolley and explore the highlights of the Old Town on a fun, historic trolley car.

With its compact size and diverse transportation options, getting around Key West is a breeze, allowing visitors to make the most of their time on this enchanting island paradise.

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.

Where to stay in Key West

Here are some of the best places to stay in Key West during your weekend trip. We’re going to list options for all types of budget ranges, though to be honest, Key West is not cheap! Even the cheapest motels are a bit on the expensive side, going for at least $250 USD per night.

However, a weekend in Key West is meant to be a bit indulgent, so don’t be afraid to treat yourself! And we’ll list a great budget motel that is as cheap as it gets in Key West.

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Fort Myers, Florida

The Blue Marlin Motel is one of the most affordable places to stay during your weekend in Key West, and it still gets great reviews! Complete with free continental breakfast, an outdoor pool, free wifi, and coffee facilities and work desks in the rooms, you have everything you need here for a comfortable stay.

Blue Marlin Motel is also perfect for a weekend in Key West because it’s just a short walk from local attractions like the southernmost point of the continental US and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. If you have a car, it’s also just a short drive from the bustling Duval Street and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

Take your accommodation up a notch during your 3 days in Key West with the Truman Hotel , located right near the Key West Old Town and within walking distance from the best local attractions.

Named after the iconic former president who once called Key West home, this boutique hotel captures the essence of island living with its chic and modern design blended seamlessly with historic charm.

The meticulously appointed rooms and suites evoke a sense of tropical elegance, featuring contemporary furnishings, plush bedding, and upscale amenities. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s lush courtyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pool and tropical landscaping, or venture out to explore Key West’s famed attractions, including historic landmarks, world-class dining, and picturesque beaches.

Perched along the sparkling shores of Stock Island in Key West, Ocean’s Edge Hotel embodies the epitome of luxury and relaxation in the Florida Keys. With gorgeous views of the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this waterfront retreat offers guests a serene escape during their weekend in Key West itinerary.

The Key West hotel’s contemporary design and upscale amenities create an atmosphere of modern elegance, with spacious suites and villas featuring private balconies or patios overlooking the ocean or lush tropical gardens.

Guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the hotel’s waterfront restaurant, unwind by the infinity-edge swimming pool, or explore the nearby attractions and vibrant culture of Key West. With its tranquil setting and unparalleled waterfront location, Ocean’s Edge Hotel is one of the best upscale accommodations in the Florida Keys!

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!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

17 Best Road Trips From San Francisco, California (2024 Guide)

The Best Los Angeles To Grand Canyon Road Trip (2024 Guide)

11 Best Road Trips From Denver, Colorado (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

The 21 best day trips from salt lake city, utah (2024 guide), the ultimate 3 days in new york city itinerary (2024 guide), 15 best day trips from denver, colorado (2024 guide), 23 best things to do in kansas city, missouri (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Travel With Me 24 X 7

Travel itinerary, Travel guide and Destination reviews

Best Florida Keys Itinerary 7 Days (Key West Itinerary 8 Days + Key West Road Trip Map)

The Florida Keys is a beautiful destination on The Overseas Highway South of Miami with stunning stopovers. Though this drive is 113 Miles, which can be covered in one day, many people prefer to do it in a week by taking a break at many places for scenic tropical beaches, Caribbean vibes, and world-famous scenic snorkeling and diving sites. Let’s read Florida Keys Itinerary 7 days with day-wise things to do and where to stay overnight. 

👉🏼Florida In Winter Itinerary – Best One Week In Florida, Things To Do & Tours

Also Read:   Ultimate Florida Itinerary 10 days – Best Of Florida Road trip (with Map + Key West)

Florida Keys Itinerary 7 Days (Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary)

Read the Florida keys road trip itinerary 7 days to 8 days with great stopovers, overnight stays, and things to do. Take a scenic Miami to Key west drive with Florida Keys Map. 

Florida Keys Map

Day 1: Miami to Key Largo 

Start your Florida Keys adventure by driving from Miami to Key Largo, the first island of the Florida Keys. The drive will take about an hour, with a distance of 60 Miles. Check in at your hotel or resort and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the nearby attractions.

Things to do:

• Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and take a glass-bottom boat tour or snorkeling trip to see the stunning coral reefs and marine life.
• Take Beautiful nature trails at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park . 
• Enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
• Go fishing or kayaking in the calm waters of Florida Bay.

Where to stay overnight in Key Largo:

• Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton .
• Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection .

Day 2: Key Largo to Islamorada 

After breakfast, drive to Islamorada, known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World. ” Islamorada is world famous for its beautiful coral reefs and encompasses Florida’s 6 Keys. Check in at your hotel and spend the day exploring the island’s many attractions. The drive will take around 30 minutes.

Islamorada is in the middle of this Florida keys drive; hence, staying here will allow you to explore nearby islands (Florida keys) and small coastal towns. 

Stopovers in between Key Largo to Islamorada

Between the drive from Key Largo to Islamorada, you can take a short stopover at Tavernier to explore the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, Harry Harris Park, and some kayaking and snorkeling tours. 

• Visit Theater of the Sea , a marine park where you can swim with dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays.
• Explore the History of Diving Museum , which showcases the evolution of diving equipment and techniques.
• Go on a fishing charter to catch some of the most sought-after game fish.

Where to stay overnight in Islamorada:

• Cheeca Lodge & Spa .
• Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina at Holiday Isle .
• Islander Resort, Islamorada .

Day 3: Islamorada to Marathon 

After breakfast, drive to Marathon, located in the middle of the Florida Keys. The drive will take around 45 minutes. Marathon has beautiful Sombrero Beach and one of the most beautiful coral reefs. Check in at your hotel and spend the day exploring the island’s many attractions.

Stopovers in between Islamorada to Marathon

Take a short stopover at Layton and Duck Key while driving from Islamorada to Marathon. These coastal towns are small community towns with beautiful beaches, plush resorts, and funky food bars. 

• Visit the Turtle Hospital and learn about the rehabilitation of injured sea turtles.
• Explore the Crane Point Museum, Nature Center & Historic Site, which offers a glimpse into the area’s natural and cultural history.
• Go snorkeling or diving at Sombrero Reef, one of the most beautiful and accessible coral reefs in the Florida Keys.

Where to stay overnight in Marathon:

• Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa .
• Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort .
• Coral Lagoon Resort Villas & Marina by KeysCaribbean .

Day 4: Marathon 

The city of Marathon encompasses 13 islands in the Middle Keys, so spending a whole day in Marathon, enjoying its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, is mainly recommended if you are going for Florida Keys road trip. Marathon has laidback beach vibes with fewer crowds than Key West and is known as the Heart of Florida Keys. 

• Relax on the Sombrero beach and soak up the sun.
• Visit Curry Hammock, State Park, for mangrove and kayak tours. 
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters.
• Visit the Dolphin Research Center and interact with these intelligent marine mammals. Also, you can visit Turtle Hospital to learn about turtle care. 

Day 5: Marathon to Key West 

Check out early after having breakfast from Marathon, and drive to Key West, the southernmost island of the Florida Keys. Before reaching Key West, there are many beautiful stopovers on this drive which are world-famous attractions of Florida keys. This drive will take around one hour and a half. 

Stopovers in between Marathon to Key West

• Seven Mile Bridge  – The iconic seven-mile bridge connects Middle Keys to the Lower keys with a beautiful ocean view. This bridge is world-famous and known for its civil design skills. You can also walk, bike, or rollerblade the approximately 2.2 miles to Pigeon Key on the bridge and enjoy the fantastic views. The drive on this scenic bridge is only 10 minutes but worth it. 
• Big Pine Key  – Big Pine Key has one of the best transparent reefs for snorkeling and diving in the Keys. At Big Pine Key, you can have a little long stopover to visit  Bahia Honda State Park , which is famous for its marvelous beaches,  National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center  for looking out at the natural habitat of wonderful endangered deer and admire the compact lake in between the old limestone quarry –  Blue Hole . 

As you reach in the evening after doing stopovers on this Florida road trip, Check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the evening exploring Key West’s stunning sunsets over the ocean and dine at funky bars and restaurants.

• Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous author lived and wrote for over a decade.
• Explore Old Town’s colorful and lively streets, which offer a mix of art, culture, and history.
• Watch the sunset from Mallory Square, a popular gathering place for street performers and locals.

Where to stay overnight in Key West:

• The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton .
• Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina .
• Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa .

Day 6: Key West 

Spend a full day in Key West, enjoying its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor activities.

Things to-do activities for Day 6 in Key West:

• Take a conch tour train or a hop-on-hop-off trolley tour to see the island’s landmarks and attractions.
• Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and stroll among hundreds of free-flying butterflies and birds in a lush tropical environment.
• Go on a sunset sail or snorkeling excursion to explore the crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs around Key West.

Day 7: Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National park

Dry Tortugas National Park encompasses 7 islands with protected coral reefs and stunning beaches. Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best places to visit on your Florida Key road trip for its incredible natural beauty. 

•  Explore Fort Jefferson

Day 8: Key West to Miami

On your last day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and drive back to Miami. The drive will take around four hours. 

 Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to stop at some attractions, such as the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters or the History of Diving Museum.

Where to stay overnight:

• If you have a late flight, you can stay at a hotel near Miami International Airport, such as the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon or the Hyatt Regency Miami .
• If you have more time, you can extend your stay in Miami and explore the city’s many attractions, such as the Art Deco Historic District, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, or the Miami Beach Boardwalk.

I hope you plan your Florida Keys road trip after reading this Florida Keys itinerary 7 days. You can also read frequently asked questions about the Florida Keys below to clear your doubts before proceeding with this road trip.

Driving The Florida Keys – Miami To Key West

• Which Highway takes you from Miami to Key West?

Iconic Overseas Highway with 42 scenic bridges takes you to the southernmost point of the Continental US. It is also known as US 1 highway and is no toll road. 

• What is the best time to Visit the Florida Keys?

Winter is the best time to visit the Florida keys, with lovely weather and temperature ranging from approximately 80 F.

• Winter & Spring – Due to the warm winter, December to April  is the peak season. Therefore, book your hotels in advance, as this season is pricey and fully booked.
• Fall time:  September to November is an off-peak season, and room rates are reduced to half due to rough weather. 

TIP – Check hurricane warnings before planning a Florida Keys Road trip, as Florida is prone to hurricanes and sea storms. 

• How many days do you need for the Florida Keys?

To thoroughly enjoy the Florida keys with its national parks, beaches, water activities, coral reef & snorkeling tours, and with driving time included, you need 6 to 7 days for your Florida Keys road trip. 

You can also make this trip within 3 to 4 days by covering significant attractions, which can be a little rushed but possible. 

• What is the must-do Florida Key?

Key Largo is the prettiest part of Florida Key and hence can’t be eliminated. Key West is a world-famous spot on your Florida Keys itinerary. 

What are the best islands of Florida Keys?

• Big Pine Key

Which is better, Key Largo or Key West?

Both are worth visiting. Key Largo is big and has laid-back beaches. Key West has the southernmost point of the continental USA, with exciting nightlife and historical sites with natural beauty. 

• Can you swim in the ocean in the Florida Keys?

Yes, you can swim in the ocean of Florida keys 

• Which Key has the most excellent beach?

Marathon has the most excellent beach – Sombrero Beach, one of the best beaches in the US.

• Which Key is safest?

Marathon is the safest Key and one of Florida’s best places to live. 

This article helps in planning your Florida Keys Road trip 7-day tour with things to do, scenic stopovers in between, where to stay, activities, and other essential tips.

More on USA Road Trips

• Perfect East Coast Road Trip Planner USA
• Stunning California Road Trip Itinerary 21 – 25 days
• 9 Best Road Trips From Miami (Top Day Trips + Weekend Getaways)
• Best St Augustine Itinerary 2 to 3 Days – Weekend Getaway

Follow my blog at 

Facebook       Twitter      Instagram       Pinterest

All content belong to travelwithme247blog(dot)com and use of content/photos without permission would result in legal action.

DISCLAIMER  – The blog’s content is solely my views of a place or a thing. This is not to offend any class, religion, ethnicity, or nation.  My views can change from time to time. This blog may contain some advertisements or links to commercial products, so this site is not responsible after you click those advertisements. 

There can be slight differences in distances, locations, or some details for which I (owner) am not responsible.  This post may contain some affiliate links, which means at no additional cost to you.  I will earn if you will click through affiliates and make a purchase.

Share this:

• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Flipboard (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from Travel With Me 24 X 7

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Key Largo to Key West: Florida’s Most Epic Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re thinking of visiting the Florida Keys , great choice! In my opinion, the best way to see and do everything is to drive from Key Largo to Key West on an epic road trip!! A lot of people visit the Keys and just go to Key West…

Don’t get me wrong, Key West is super fun, but it’s completely different from the rest of the Keys! Going to the Keys and just visiting Key West is like going to New York City and not leaving Times Square.. You’re just not getting the full experience!

The rest of the Florida Keys have such a charm about them, and you really need to experience all the different areas to appreciate it. The drive from Key Largo to Key West is only about 2 hours, so it’s totally doable in a long weekend. However, I recommend spending a week in the Keys to get the full experience!

In this itinerary, I go over exactly how to spend one week in the Keys, starting in Key Largo and making your way down to Key West, including things to do, where to stay, and more! So keep reading to plan your perfect road trip from Key Largo to Key West!

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! 

The Ultimate Key Largo To Key West Road Trip Guide!

Where to fly into.

For Florida locals, this trip obviously starts from wherever you live! However, if you’re not from Florida, you’re going to have to fly into one of the many Florida airports. You have a few options!

• Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL) often has cheap flights to other parts of the country and is only 1.5 hours (~75 miles) from Key Largo
• Miami International Airport (MIA) is the closet airport to Key Largo (only 60 miles) and takes about an hour to get to Key Largo
• Key West International Airport (EYW) is a much smaller airport and will likely be more expensive than FLL or MIA.

My recommendation: If you are able to book one way flights, I’d fly into Fort Lauderdale or Miami and then out of Key West (or the opposite) so you don’t have to drive up and down the length of the Keys twice!

Road Trip Map

I’ve put together the below map with all of my favorite spots from Key Largo to Key West, including restaurants, bars, hotels, and more! You can easily export this map into your own Google Maps so you can reference it during your trip 🙂

Packing List for Key Largo to Key West Itinerary

Your packing list for your Key Largo to Key West road trip will be very similar year-round, as there’s no harsh winters in this part of the USA. There might be a cold front in the winter requiring a sweater or jeans, but for the most part, you can get away with shorts, tshirts, and flip flops year round.. what a life right?!

Aside from normal items like clothes, there are some essentials I recommend for your trip to the Keys, whether or not you’re visiting in the summer, the winter, or somewhere in between! Make sure to check out my guide on What to Wear in Key West for more details!

1. Sunscreen (and lots of it!) : I will scream this from the mountain tops until I am blue in the face! If you are going to be oustide, you need to wear sunscreen. I highly recommend Supergoop! It’s my favorite brand ever (not sponspored by them) but I will recommend them forever. Their matte screen and unseen suncreen are next level – you will forget you even have it on! So no excuses, wear your SPF and protect yourself from those harmful rays!

2. Snorkel Gear : If you have your own gear, I highly recommend bringing it on your trip if you’re planning to be in the ocean more than once (which you should be!). If you don’t have your own, it may or may not be worth buying it. For example, if you’re doing a snorkel tour on your trip, they will likely provide gear for you. But if you know you are going to use it often, buying your own snorkel and masks is a great investment!

3. GoPro : If you’re visiting the Florida Keys, you will likely be getting out on the water. With the different shades of blue, the tropical fish, and the gorgeous coral heads, there is so much to document under the water, and a GoPro is the perfect tool to capture it all! I also highly recommend this floating hand grip , which will make sure you don’t lose your GoPro even if you drop it underwater!

4. Polarized Sunglasses / Hat : To protect yourself while you’re in the sun and out on the water! Polarized glasses will also help cut the glare on the ocean so you can see the wildlife! I love this inexpensive two pack from amazon! 

5. Water Shoes : Okay by water shoes, I mean shoes that can get wet! not those dorky tourist shoes…lol! I have these Reef sandals that are totally waterproof and are great for outdoor adventures like kayaking, taking on a snorkel boat, etc. 

Days 1-3: Upper Keys

The Upper Keys are my personal favorite part of the Keys, the most notable being Key Largo, Tavernier, and Islamorada. In my opinion, this is where the best restaurants and activities are, and this area truly resembles that “Florida Keys” lifestyle.

Key Largo to Islamorada is only 17 miles, so you can really stay anywhere in between the two and tackle the whole area in a few days! I personally prefer Islamorada, but Key Largo is great as well.

Where to Stay in the Upper Keys

Below is a quick overview of my favorite hotels in the Upper Keys, which includes Key Largo and Islamorada. You can also read more in my guides: Best Hotels in Key Largo and Best Hotels in Islamorada !

Kona Kai Resort: A budget-friendly resort nestled into the bayside! Perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. There are only 13 bungalows on the property, plus a pool, gallery, and more! You can read my full review of this property here .

Islander Resort : Mid-tier resort that is truly a slice of paradise! With over 114 rooms and suites, it’s perfect for those looking for more amenities on site, like bicycles, beach games, a poolside bar, and more!

Postcard Inn : Very similar to Islander, Postcard Inn offers reasonable prices with lots of onsite activities, including the famous Tiki Bar, home of the rum runner! Also has a little ocean lagoon for kayaking, paddle boarding, etc.

The Caribbean Resort : I might be a little biased since I got married here, but in my opinion, this is the most beautiful resort in the Florida Keys. With 22 unique Caribbean-style homes, a gorgeous zero-entry pool, and marina and fishing pier, you will not regret staying here! Check out my full review of the property here .

Playa Largo: An Autograph Resort collection hotel, Playa Largo feels more like a “hotel” than the others, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t gorgeous. The property is incredible, with a luxurious pool, beach bar, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. I recommend checking out their Sol By the Sea restaurant where you can dine in the water!

Day 1: Check in + Beers at Local Brewery

This itinerary assumes Day 1 is mostly a travel day! After you check into your hotel in the afternoon, I recommend heading to Islamorada Brewing & Distillery for some incredible local vibes. Here you can get Florida-inspired beer, like the Sandbar Sunday, plus some yummy snacks from their food truck!

In the evening, head just down the road to Shrimp Shack for dinner. This place was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, so you won’t regret it!

P.S. If you are thinking of heading to the Florida Keys, don’t forget to check out my Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide to help plan your trip!

Day 2: Get Out on the Water + Sunset Dinner

Water adventures.

On your second day in the Upper Keys, it’s time to get out on the water and enjoy what the Florida Keys are famous for! If you’re scuba certified, there are some awesome dives in Key Largo and Islamorada, like Spiegel Grove (wreck dive) and Molasses Reef. If you’re not scuba certified, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do! 

My favorite spot in the Upper Keys is Alligator Reef Lighthouse . It’s about a 30-minute boat ride out to the lighthouse, and you will be greeted with the most magnificent shades of blue water!

Plus, as you snorkel around and through the lighthouse, you will see tons of wildlife like tropical fish, nurse sharks, octopus, and maybe even some dolphins.

This spot is truly incredible, and you can visit here on a snorkeling tour from one of the many companies in Islamorada. You can read more about snorkeling in Islamorada in my guide here !

Another great option is visiting John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , the United States’ first undersea park! Covering 70 nautical square miles, there are lots of great snorkel spots within and near the park, but my favorite (and probably the most popular) is the Christ Statue!

If you don’t have your own boat, no worries! There are tons of snorkel tours that will take you to the best snorkel spots in Key Largo. Below is my recommended favorite!

Key Largo 2 Reef Snorkel Tour

• Price: Starting at $78 for adults
• Duration: 3.5 hours
• TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5 stars ⭐
• Includes : All snorkeling equipment!

Whichever snorkeling trip you choose, I recommend going out first thing in the morning. You will have the best weather (and smallest waves) during this time, and hopefully beat the crowds! You can read more about all my tips in my Key Largo Snorkeling Guide !

If you are not a big snorkeler, another great thing to do in the Upper Keys is go fishing. Did you know Islamorada is actually the sports fishing capital of the world ? Throughout the year, you can fish for incredible game like mahi, wahoo, marlin, and more! Check out the top Islamorada fishing charters here !

Afternoon in Paradise

After your day out on the water, head to the famous Tiki Bar in Islamorada at Postcard Inn for some lunch and drinks. If you drink alcohol, you have to try a rum runner (with a floater!) – it was invented here! In the afternoon, relax at your hotel pool, maybe take a nap in a hammock.. hey, you’re on vacation right?

For dinner, I recommend checking out one of the incredible restaurants on the bayside so you can watch the sunset. Below are my favorites, and you can read more about the Best Restaurants in Islamorada here!

• Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar
• Snook’s Bayside Restaurant
• Square Grouper
• Morada Bay Beach Cafe & Bar
• Marker 88 Restaurant

Day 3: Kayaking, Robbie’s, and Shopping

On your last day in the Upper Keys, head over to Robbie’s of Islamorada . This spot is famous for its tarpon feeding experience, so if that interests you, definitely do it!

After, you’ll be renting kayaks from here and doing one of their incredible backcountry tours ! You’ll get to kayak through the mangroves on the bayside and see some incredible wildlife. If you’re looking for something a little more adrenal-pumping, you can also do a jet ski tour around the island !

Once your tour ends, have lunch at Robbie’s – their food is delicious! If you’re looking for more adventure in the afternoon, another awesome thing to do is visit Dolphins Plus .

This non-profit is a rehabilitation center for dolphins and also offer the chance to swim with them. It is much more ethical than Theater of the Sea, which I DO NOT recommend visiting. 

There are also some great souvenir shops in the Upper Keys you can visit if you’re looking to do a little shopping. My favorites are Shell World and the Rain Barrel.

In the evening, grab some drinks and watch the sunset at your hotel. Or, if you are up for another adventure, you can go on a Key Largo sunset cruise !

If your hotel has a fishing dock, I highly recommend grabbing some poles and doing a little bottom fishing in the evenings! It’s always fun to see what you can catch with a little bit of shrimp or ballyhoo. 

If you need more ideas for activities, make sure to check out my list of the Top 20 Things to Do in Islamorada !

Day 4: Middle Keys and Drive to Key West

It’s time to start Phase 2 of your Key Largo to Key West road trip and start making your way down towards Key West along the Overseas Highway. Don’t worry, you’ll be breaking up the drive with a stop or two in the Middle Keys! If you love animals, the Turtle Hospital in Marathon is absolutely worth a visit. 

Another great stop is Bahia Honda State Park . It’s $8 per vehicle to enter, but it’s totally worth it to spend a few hours on the beach, snorkeling, and just relaxing! Plus, there is an old railway bridge and a spot to rent kayaks and paddle boards.

Note: As you make your way from the Middle Keys to K ey West, you will drive over the famous Seven Mile Bridge, which has a pretty unique history you can read more about here .

Another cool thing to do on the drive is visit the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key!! Key deer are endangered, so the Florida Keys do a lot to protect them. They are the smallest deer species in North America and only live in the Florida Keys! You can see them in the wild driving along No Name and Big Pine Key – it’s pretty awesome!

In the afternoon, finish your drive from Key Largo to Key West and check into your hotel.

Days 5-7: Lower Keys (Key West)

Where to stay in key west.

As you can see on the map above, if you want to be walking distance to all the main sites, you’ll need to stay in Old Town, but expect to pay a pretty penny! This area is small, with limited parking, but the most gorgeous, Queen Anne style houses and picturesque streets. It’s fun to stay down here but definitely not necessary!

There are plenty of resorts at the top of Key West, and most have shuttles to Old Town for free. We stayed at the Doubletree Hilton and it was perfect! Here are a list of hotels I recommend checking out across the different parts of Key West:

• Havana Cabana at Key West (Budget/Moderate)
• The Perry Hotel and Marina (Moderate)
• Hilton Garden Inn (Moderate)
• The Southernmost House (Moderate/Luxury)
• Ocean Key Resort (Moderate/Luxury)
• Casa Marina Key West (Extreme Luxury)

P.S. You can read more about where to stay and things to do in my perfect 3 Day Key West Itinerary !

Day 5: Water Adventure OR Fort Jefferson + Sunset at Mallory Square

Welcome to Key West! On your first full day, I highly recommend getting out on the water (do you see a theme here?!) Key West has tons of fun adventure activities to choose from. If you snorkeled in the Upper Keys, I would probably skip snorkeling in Key West (you will probably be disappointed – The Upper Keys definitely have the best snorkeling!)

Jet skiing around the island is super fun, and there’s also parasailing, dolphin watching, fishing, and more! GetYourGuide has tons of options – just take your pick!

Fort Jefferson State Park

If you’re REALLY up for adventure, I highly recommend visiting Fort Jefferson State Park at the Dry Tortugas. To get here, you either need to take the 3-hour Yankee Freedom ferry, or you can book a seaplane, but the latter is very pricey!!

Both options book up pretty far in advance, so if you think you want to visit, I recommend looking at your options as soon as possible! You can read more about visiting here .

Fort Jefferson is one of the coolest places I’ve ever visited! It’s a former military installation approximately 60 miles west of Key West in the middle of the ocean! The fort was never finished, but it was used during the Civil War and even held prisoners.

The fort is cool to walk around, plus there are incredible beaches and clear water surrounding the fort that you can snorkel and swim in. You can even camp here if you’re into that!!

Mallory Square

After your morning of adventure, head out and explore Old Town Key West, hit the shops, etc. This area is very walkable and there’s lots to keep you busy! In the evening, head down to Mallory Square to take part in the famous Sunset Celebration .

Here you’ll find street vendors and performers, andddd everyone else in Key West!! Hah. Just kidding, but it is a very popular place to watch the sunset, so expect crowds, and get there early if you want an unobstructed view!

Before (or after) sunset, I highly recommend getting dinner at Hot Tin Roof at the Ocean Key Resort . It was absolutely fabulous, and right on the water!! After dinner, when the sun goes down (cue Kenny Chesney song), one of the most famous parts of Key West comes alive – Duval Street!

If you’re over 21, Duval Street is a fun thing to experience once in your life.. It’s basically a tropical, slightly more tame Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Fair warning: it gets rowdy!!!!

Day 6: Brunch, Bikes, & Beach

On your second day in Key West, head straight to Blue Heaven as soon as they open for the MOST incredible breakfast of your life. The waffles are absolutely to die for. Also, Key Lime Pie as big as your head!! If you did the famous “Duval Crawl” last night, they also have some yummy drinks to cure that hangover!

After brunch, I recommend renting bikes from Eaton Bikes and exploring Key West on two wheels! Key West is extremely bike friendly, and it’s a great way to see the town. Bike over to the  famous Southernmost Point sign and get your touristy photo! Nearby, you’ll also find the Key West Lighthouse , which offers great views of the island, as well as Ernest Hemingway’s House , which is cool even if you’re not a literature lover!

Grab lunch at one of the many places along Duval, and then head over to Smathers Beach and relax in the afternoon. Did you know there aren’t many beaches in the Keys? Luckily, Smathers is one of the most beautiful ones! It’s also one of the best free things to do in Key West !

Another cool thing to do in Key West if the above isn’t your style (or if you have more time) is to take the ferry over to Sunset Key to grab lunch or dinner at the award winning Latitudes Resort . It’s a quick 7-minute ferry, but you have to have a reservation at the restaurant or hotel to get on. The restaurant is pretty incredible and definitely worth a visit!

P.S. Don’t forget to check out my blog post on my Top 25 EPIC Things to Do in Key West!

In the evening, I highly recommend booking a sunset booze cruise . Most include bottomless rum punch, live music, and yummy appetizers! It’s the perfect way to spend your last evening in Key West – out on the water! You can read my full guide on Best Sunset Cruises in Key West here which has even more details on what to expect!

Sebago Watersports Sunset Sail

• Duration : 2 hours
• Rating : 4.5/5 stars⭐
• Includes : Open Bar, Live Music, Appetizers

Day 7: Fly Home!

Today is unfortunately the day you leave the beautiful Keys… 🙁 If you have some time before your flight on your last day, feel free to explore Key West a little more in the morning. However, if you have to make the drive back to Fort Lauderdale or Miami on your last day, you need to give yourself PLENTY of time to make it back.. I’m talking A LOT of time.

Traffic in the Keys can get really bad since there is one road in and one road out. An accident can mean hours of delays. Take my word for it.. if you have a morning flight out of Fort Lauderdale or Miami, I recommend leaving Key West the night before and getting a hotel room near the airport instead.

If you have an afternoon/evening flight, make sure you give yourself lots of extra time, especially during Miami rush hour!

Final Thoughts

That wraps up my Key Largo to Key West Road Trip itinerary! I hope I’ve shown you how incredibly special the Florida Keys are.

Like I mentioned, there are different ways to tackle this itinerary depending on what flights you can snag.. Key Largo to Key West or vice versa, it doesn’t matter! But booking one way flights will minimize your drive times and allow you to spend more time in paradise! 

If you need more help planning your trip, check out my Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide to help be even more prepared for your journey from Key Largo to Key West! And if you have to choose only one Key to visit, here is my Key Largo vs Key West comparison guide !

Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!

Similar Posts

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…

Zion National Park to Antelope Canyon: Mini Road Trip Guide

Are you planning a trip from Zion National Park to Antelope Canyon, or vice versa?! This journey is one…

Kona to Hilo: A Complete Guide to Driving Across the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of my favorite places I’ve visited to date! Why? Because there is…

Best Snorkeling on the Big Island of Hawaii: A Detailed Guide

Wondering where to experience the BEST snorkeling on the Big Island of Hawaii? The Big Island is known for…

A Complete List of Free (And Cheap) Things to Do in Key Largo, FL

Are you planning a trip to the Key Largo and wondering if there are any free things to do?…

25 EPIC Things You Need to Do in Key West, Florida

Oh Key West! An incredibly diverse, historic town at the veryyy end of Florida. Even though Key West is…

• Pingback: Kona Kai Resort: A Florida Keys Escape - Adventures by Lana
• Pingback: The Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide - Adventures by Lana
• Pingback: Bahamas Bachelorette Party at the Atlantis Resort - Adventures by Lana
• Pingback: 14 BEST Restaurants in Islamorada - Adventures by Lana
• Pingback: The Caribbean Resort: A Tropical Paradise in the Florida Keys - Adventures by Lana
• Pingback: Miami to Key Largo: An EPIC Mini Road Trip Guide - Adventures by Lana

Comments are closed.

Key West Day Trip Guide: Activities to Do, Places to See, and Foods to Devour!

During my travels around Florida, I found myself spending most of my time in Key West, a quirky little island with a vibrant life that seems to be worlds apart from the rest of the state. Exploring the city and its local cuisine and watching the sunset across the turquoise waters were the highlights of my trip.

That said, there were many other things that I indulged in and enjoyed a lot. Come to think of it, I can proudly say that there isn’t a spot on this quaint little island that I haven’t missed. This makes me the right person to create the perfect itinerary for a day trip.

Whether you’re heading to this part of Florida with friends and family or as part of a cruise ship stop, make sure to read this guide to have the best time in Key West!

Table of Contents

Make Sure to Plan Your Day Trip to Key West in Spring or Fall!

While you can plan your day trip to Key West any time of the year and have a blast, there are a few things to keep in mind, including the crowds and weather.

When I visited this gorgeous little island city in the Florida Keys, spring was nearing its end. It was cool and breezy during this time, with fewer tourists roaming around.

However, my friend was not so lucky. He went on a solo adventure to explore Key West in the summer, and his experience was slightly different than mine.

Although drinking cocktails on Smathers Beach or enjoying the sunset celebration on the beautiful island was all he talked about, he did mention that the toasty weather and high humidity affected his travels.

You can also plan your day trip to Key West in winter. While the weather is pleasant, the swarming crowds of tourists might make your view of the crystal clear waters of the Florida Keys less picturesque. I recommend visiting in the summer or fall to avoid foot traffic.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that hurricane season begins in June and ends in November. Although I was lucky to have just missed the natural disaster during my travels, I saw its impact on the little island city, leaving many properties in shambles.

That said, hurricanes don’t always pass through the Florida Keys every year, so make sure to plan accordingly.  I also made a more in depth post about the best time to visit all Florida Keys .

What to Do in Key West for a Day: One-day Itinerary for the Best Experience

There are many things to do in Key West. From indulging in the infamous Key Lime pie on a stick to enjoying local culinary delights at some of the best restaurants in town, here’s how you should spend your day, afternoon, and evening in this vibrant island city:

Have a Relaxing Breakfast at Blue Heaven

Start your day munching on Floridian-Caribbean cuisine. If you want to properly explore Key West, you need to dive into what the locals eat. Blue Heaven is one of the best places to grab a quick bite or indulge in a full-course meal before heading into town.

Most people come here for the beautiful courtyard, which is perfect for taking pictures for your Instagram, but they stay for the food. Blue Heaven is one of my top recommendations for many reasons, including the fact that they offer breakfast until 2:00 PM. If you’re late, you don’t need to worry, as the staff will serve you warm meals to fill your belly.

Blue Heaven has a limited menu with very few items, so you’ll definitely be getting high-quality, freshly prepared food. I started my breakfast by ordering the “Richard’s Very Good Pancakes,” followed by its most popular dessert, the Key Lime pie. You can also try the Lobster Benedict, as I heard good things about it from the people sitting at the table next to me.

When the food arrived, I was taken aback. The pancakes were the largest I’ve ever seen in my life, and each spoonful contained bananas, pineapple, pecans, and blueberries. The bar was set high after I took the first bite.

Once I had completely devoured the pancakes, I quickly dug into the famous Key Lime pie that has the whole town talking. It was refreshing with the right amount of sweetness.

I’ll cherish my time spent at Blue Heaven. Not only was the food lip-smacking good but I was also greeted by the infamous Key West chickens roaming around the patio of this fine establishment. A local band was playing live music, which created a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.

Snorkel at the Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

After you’ve had your fill, head over to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. While there are many beaches in Key West, I highly recommend Fort Zach (that’s what the residents call it), as it’s the locals’ favorite spot and the only natural white sand beach on the island. The crowds are smaller here, and you can snorkel a few miles offshore if you’re feeling a bit adventurous.

Don’t have the gear? Don’t worry; you’ll find a few rental shops on Fort Zachary Taylor Beach that’ll equip you with the right equipment, whether you’re planning to sunbathe or snorkel. You can even wander around the exciting trails in the area or take a self-guided tour of a Civil War Era Fort. There’s a lot to do in this part of the town.

Before moving forward, I want to clear up a misconception that many travelers have about Key West. Most of the pristine white sandy beaches, including Smathers Beach and Higgs Beach, that draw tourists from all over America are largely manmade. Nevertheless, they are beautiful and worth a visit.

Explore the Old Town Area of Key West

While I’m always up for a good adventure, I found myself roaming around the old town area often. Something about this place attracts your attention and lures you in. The old-fashioned wooden homes surrounded by newly renovated bars, churches, and museums create a vibe like no other.

In this part of town, you’ll find a lot of things to do. Here are some of my recommendations:

• Rum Distillery Tour
• The Conch Tour Train
• Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
• Florida Keys Eco-discovery Center

Lunch at Cuban Coffee Queen

Walking the trails, snorkeling, or simply exploring this side of Key West would’ve built up a serious appetite, and that’s perfect, as your next stop should be Cuban Coffee Queen.

There are many outlets around town, but my favorite is the one on Margaret Street near the Key West Historic Seaport. This is the original Cuban Coffee Queen spot from where it all began, so you can expect that it serves some of the best Cuban sandwiches and drinks.

Heading over to this fine establishment made me hungry, so I couldn’t help but quickly give my order to the friendly staff. After a quick glance at the menu, I chose the Havana Rice and Beans and a Café Con Leche to wash it all down. The food was exquisite, and it will give you enough energy for whatever you have planned next.

There are so many worthy eateries to dine at that it makes it incredibly difficult to explore the local cuisine in Key West in a day. If you’re here for longer, I highly recommend trying Garbo’s Grill, a husband-and-wife-run stand/trailer that’s been featured in many food magazines. The Korean beef short rib tacos and the Umami burger smothered in chipotle Gouda served at this establishment are to die for!

Head Over to the Iconic Key West Mural

Fortunately, you don’t have to do much walking for this activity. The iconic “Greetings from Key West” mural is right next to Cuban Coffee Queen and is the perfect spot to start exploring this stunning little island.

After you’ve taken a picture or two for your social media profiles, it’s time to head over to the Key West Historic Seaport.

Explore the Key West Historic Seaport

Nearby the iconic Key West mural is the old seaport with grand views. It’s an excellent place for a quiet, relaxing stroll, and what’s even more exciting is that you’ll be greeted by sailboats and yachts anchored at the harbor.

Here, you can take pictures, enjoy hearing the waves gently crash on the shores, or shop at the many little trinket stores to buy souvenirs for your loved ones.

I understand that you’re here to learn more about my Key West adventures and discover a few secret places or hidden gems. Luckily for you, I never let my readers down.

Since you’re already at the Key West Historic Seaport, I highly recommend searching for Lazy Way Lane. It’s a cute pedestrian-only road filled with colorful shops, palm trees, and a vibe that you won’t find anywhere in the United States. Strolling on this stretch of land feels like you’re walking in a Hollywood movie.

Indulge in Kermit’s Key Lime Pie

Whether you’re navigating Key West in a day or looking to spend some time there, make sure to try the internet-famous Key Lime pie from Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe. It’s a delicious, decadent pie dipped in chocolate and served on a stick; yes, you heard that right!

There are many outlets of Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe across town, but I recommend heading over to the Elizabeth Street location, as it’s near the Key West Historic Seaport. The super cute yellow and green building isn’t hard to miss.

Shop on Duval Street

It must be late in the afternoon by now, and the temperatures should have started to cool down, which makes it the perfect time to visit Duval Street. It’s filled with bars, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and tourist shops.

While you’ll find streets like this all across the country, what makes Duval Street unique is the architecture and colorful buildings, which give the place a unique vibe.

Here, you’ll find the fanciest Walgreens nestled in the vibrant, vintage Strand Theater. Remember to take pictures at the nearby rainbow crosswalk intersection.

When the sun sets, Duval Street comes to life. Live music creates a stunning atmosphere, and the crowded sidewalks are a sight to see.

If drinking is your thing, you may want to consider a pub crawl, trying unique alcoholic cocktails made by some of the best bartenders in Key West. Make sure to include Sloppy Joe’s during your bar adventures.

Take One Last Look at the Conch Republic

Although there are many things to do in Key West in a day, it’s important to prioritize certain experiences that you can cherish for the rest of your life. One of them is the Southernmost Point, a landmark on this small island city that’s 90 miles from Cuba.

Here, you’re much closer to a foreign country than you are to Miami. Don’t forget to whip out your camera for some stunning photos.

You can also visit the Mile Marker, another southernmost point in the United States that’s excellent for fun photography. It’s at the end of Highway US 1 and a great spot if you want to stand at the far end of the Florida Keys.

Enjoy the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

Your day in Key West is about to come to an end. If you have time to stick around for the sunset celebration, Mallory Square is my favorite spot to be.

Two hours before the sun sets, this place comes alive with people, music, stunt performers, and vendors. It happens every night and provides a glimpse into how locals celebrate their evenings.

Since booze and parties may not be up everyone’s alley, you may want to hop aboard a small sailboat to enjoy the sunset with your friends or family. It’s a quiet and fun experience that I highly recommend. Plus, there are many excursion activities that you can enjoy.

Dine at Amigos Tortilla Bar

Having dinner at Amigos Tortilla Bar is the best way to end your Key West day trip on a good note. During my time here, I frequently visited this restaurant for meals, as it serves scrumptious food and offers the option to sit outside to enjoy the sights that unfold on Duval Street.

After the sunset celebration at Mallory Square, head over to Amigos Tortilla Bar for a yummy Mexican dinner in the heart of Key West. From tacos to burritos, veggies and meat bowls, and fish, there are many options to choose from. Regardless of what you order, the food is prepared fresh and worth the wait.

Final Thoughts on Spending One Day in Key West

A day in Key West is not enough to explore this quirky city. It has many public beaches, including Higgs Beach and Smathers Beach, each offering a distinct feel, making them worth a visit. Also, there are numerous restaurants to explore for tasty local eats, including the conch fritters at the Conch Republic Seafood Company.

However, if you’re looking to spend less than 24 hours on this island, this guide should provide you with a list of activities to make the most of your time at Key West!

About  Tim Schmidt

Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.

Related Content

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Get Our Monthly Travel Recaps

Sign up to get our monthly recap of travel hacks, trip reports, and ways to make the most out of your next vacation.