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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

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

June 10, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

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

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

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

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

Top Experiences And Tours In Key West:

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

Top Places To Stay In Key West:

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

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

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

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

How long does the Florida Keys road trip take?

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

How long should you take on your Florida Keys itinerary?

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

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

Best time of year to road trip the Florida Keys

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

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

Best stops on your Florida Keys road trip itinerary:

Downtown miami.

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

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

Biscayne Bay National Park

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

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

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

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

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

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

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

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

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

Windley Key Fossil Reef State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit Robbie’s Waterfront to feed the tarpon

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

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

Dolphin Research Center

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

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

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

The Turtle Hospital

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

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

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

Reservations can be made online!

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

Drive or walk the 7 Mile Bridge

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

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

Bahia Honda State Park

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

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

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

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

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

National Key Deer Refuge

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

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

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

Dry Tortugas National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

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

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

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

Smathers Beach

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

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

Where to stay on your Florida Keys road trip itinerary

Key west marriott beachside.

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

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

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

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

Check Rates:  Booking.com

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

There are tons of activities that the resort provides including snorkel, boat, and dive tours! The property also features two large pools and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Make sure to check out our list of the Best Resorts In The Florida Keys ! There are some really epic resorts featured for couples, families, and more.

Check Rates: Booking.co m

Cheeca Lodge and Spa

Cheeca Lodge and Spa is located in Islamorada, one of the cutest small towns in Florida! It is located 15 minutes from the local airport or just a 1.5-hour drive south of Miami. A stay here means relaxing in a lush tropical paradise surrounded by the turquoise waters of the ocean. This is truly one of the best luxury hotels in Florida!

The property features a golf course, restaurants, pools, sea kayaks and bicycles for guests to use, Camp Cheeca for children, and an ocean-front bar! The rooms here are luxurious with all the amenities one could want and balconies to enjoy the ocean view or golf and lagoon views.

Check Rates: booking.com

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club

Marathon is just over 2 hours (114 miles) from Miami making it the perfect place to stop for the night on your Florida Keys vacation itinerary. Don’t let the resort and yacht club scare you the property is reasonably priced averaging $230 a night!

The resort is on the water and features modern rooms, with a gorgeous pool and onsite restaurant. It is easy to spot by its historic lighthouse right on the bay.

Florida Keys: Planning Your Trip

Planning your trip, things to do, what to eat and drink, where to stay, getting there, money saving tips.

Each year millions of vacationers visit the Florida Keys . Moderate year-round temperatures that come from its unique geographical location nestled between the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico provide the perfect setting for limitless outdoor recreation including fishing, boating, scuba diving, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, biking, and camping. And, of course, nature lovers will enjoy seeing abundant wildlife.

If you're planning a Florida Keys vacation, learning a little bit about the area and what to expect will help you get the most from your time and vacation dollars.

• Best Time to Visit : In terms of warm weather, the Florida Keys are truly a year-round destination . The extended Halloween celebration known as Fantasy Fest in Key West at the end of October is one of the busiest times to visit, and it stays busy through the winter as folks escape the cold at home. Summer is considered the off-season and visitors will discover that rooms are cheaper and the Keys are less crowded during these months, but it's also muggy and thunderstorms are common. Hurricane season is officially from June to November, but most storms occur in August and September. The chance of a storm hitting the Keys is rare, but if a storm is predicted then be aware that you'll likely be evacuated before it hits.
• Language : The language spoken throughout the Florida Keys is English, although Spanish is commonly spoken as well.
• Currency : The U.S. dollar is the currency used, with credit and debit cards widely accepted.
• Getting Around : All of the main islands are connected via the Overseas Highway , so you'll need a car if you plan on visiting multiple spots. If you're staying on one island, it's easy to get around by bike, scooter, bus, or walking.
• Travel Tip : The Florida Keys have a reputation for honeymooners, bachelor and bachelorette parties, or retirees, but these islands are also very family-friendly. If your kids enjoy exploring outdoors, they'll love this little paradise just as much as everyone else.

The Florida Keys are one of the most paradisiacal destinations in the entire U.S. and the main activities are exactly what you'd expect for a tropical getaway. While it's easy to think of the Keys as one uniform place, they are actually incredibly diverse, beginning with Everglades National Park at the point closest to the mainland and stretching 180 miles to the exuberant nightlife of Key West. Regardless of which islands you visit, there is plenty to keep busy in these parts .

• Dive down to an underwater park. Scuba diving and snorkeling are excellent at any one of the over 800 islands that make up the Florida Keys, but John Pennekamp State Park on Key Largo is unique for being the first undersea park in the country—and one of the best diving spots in Florida . Dive through coral reefs, aquatic mangrove orchards, and even sunken parts of an old Spanish ship, all while keeping an eye out for local wildlife like sea turtles and dolphins.
• Cast your rod and try sportfishing. The warm Gulf waters are filled with fish, and sport fishing is one of the most popular activities in the area. You can hop on a boat and fish anywhere from Key Largo to Key West , but the island of Islamorada is considered the sportfishing capital of the world. Fishing excursions are common and easy to find, whether it's deep sea, offshore, or backcountry fishing. Catch and release is a common practice in the Florida Keys to protect the local ecosystem, and the state of Florida reminds anglers to "limit your catch, not catch your limit."
• Take a tour of Ernest Hemingway's home. The Florida Keys aren't just about beach time and sunshine. One of America's greatest novelists and recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature resided for many years in Key West, and his Spanish Colonial-style home is open for guided tours. To add to the Hemingway experience, it was in the waters between Key West and Cuba that set the scene for one of his most famous novels, "The Old Man and the Sea."

You've probably heard of Key lime pie , which is widely available across all of the Florida Keys and made with special Key limes that have a distinct flavor from the more common green limes you see at your local market. But this regional dessert is hardly the only food to try on your vacation. Due to their location, Florida Key cuisine is a delicious fusion of Southern U.S. and Caribbean flavors, and seafood tends to be the star.

Of the many dishes to try , one of the most typical delicacies is stone crab, which is mostly fished from the Keys region. Other seafood specialties include snapper, red grouper, and lionfish. Conch fritters a type of fried sea snail and a specialty throughout the Caribbean, but it's definitely something you should try during your Florida Keys visit.

Staying in the Florida Keys is a dream, but admittedly not a cheap one. Even the budget accommodations can quickly add up, especially in the high-demand islands like Key West and Key Largo. Choose your base depending on what kind of vacation you're looking for, whether it's diving and snorkeling in the Upper Keys around Key Largo, history and social activities in Key West, or more seclusion in the Middle Keys between them.

Key West is the most popular destination and spending the night there tends to be the most expensive. That said, there is a wide range of hotels from homey guesthouses to penthouses with a private dock for your yacht, so look around with your budget in mind.

One of the most classic accommodation options in the Florida Keys is the cottages. These charming homes are usually located right on the water, range from one to four bedrooms, and typically include amenities like a full kitchen. While some cottages definitely lean on the extravagant side, others are affordable and make great options for larger groups who can split the cost.

Of course, the cheapest way to stay in the Florida Keys is to pack your camping gear and reserve a campsite in one of the area's natural parks which are scattered across the archipelago. For one of the most remote and most rewarding camping experiences, get a spot in Dry Tortugas National Park, which is 70 miles further west of Key West and only reachable by ferry.

Most visitors start their trip by arriving at either Miami International Airport or Fort Lauderdale Airport and renting a car from there. Shuttles or private cars are also an option for those who don't want to drive. The journey from Miami to the Upper Keys—such as Key Largo—is just an hour by car, but expect to be on the road for three to four hours to get to Key West. The two-lane Overseas Highway quickly gets backed up on Friday afternoons as Floridians head out to the Keys for a getaway, so try to avoid the weekend rush hour if you can. If you do get stuck in traffic, at least take time to enjoy the views on what is easily one of the most breathtaking routes in the U.S. , admiringly known as "the Highway That Goes to Sea."

Since many long stretches of the drive are completely surrounded by just water, it can be disorienting to know exactly where you are. Mile Markers (MM) are spaced throughout the trip so you can always find your relative location in the Florida Keys. The higher the mile marker number, the farther you are from Key West and the closer to the Florida mainland—in other words, Key West is Mile Marker 0.

If you want to skip the long drive, there is a small airport on the island of Marathon and another on the southernmost island of Key West . Both of them have direct connections to Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports.

For a fun experience and quick access to the Keys by water, the Key West Express is a ferry with service from Fort Meyers and Marco Island directly to Key West.

• There are generally fewer tourists in the Florida Keys from June to November. Summer is hot and muggy, but it's the low season for the Keys and Florida in general, meaning cheaper hotel rates and flights to Miami.
• The cheapest months are September and November, and parts of October as long as you don't coincide with the Fantasy Fest celebrations.
• Take a close look at the fine print before reserving a place to stay. Places that seem the cheapest often tack on "hidden fees" after booking, so thoroughly compare prices before making a final decision.
• Chartering your own boat or going scuba diving may be out of your budget, but there are plenty of free activities to enjoy throughout the Keys, such as scenic beaches, walking or biking across the Seven Mile Bridge, exploring Bahia Honda State Park, and much more.
• Parking is difficult and can be expensive around the Keys, especially on the busiest islands. If your hotel doesn't include parking, try asking them for nearby locations.

Top Activities in Key Largo, Florida

The 13 Best Day Trips From Miami

Maps of Florida: From the Panhandle to the Keys

Your Trip to Miami: the Complete Guide

The Overseas Highway: Miami to Key West

Key West, Florida

Romantic Florida for Honeymoon Couples and Other Lovers

The 8 Best Beaches in Key West

Fishing in Key West, Florida: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to the Bahamas: The Complete Guide

Top Florida Keys Attractions

Best Toddler-Friendly Florida Beach Resorts

Guide to an Atlantic Coast Road Trip

The 15 Best Things To Do in the Florida Keys

Biscayne National Park: The Complete Guide

Oleta River State Park: The Complete Guide

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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.

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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.

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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.

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How To Plan Florida Keys Vacation: Inexpensive Hotels, Epic Islands

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: January 4, 2022  - Last updated: February 27, 2024

I had dreamed of a Florida Keys vacation since I was a teenager and first saw pictures of Key West and all the places to visit in the Florida Keys. Well, we’ve finally taken a family trip to the Keys (several actually!) and worked really hard to create the best Keys itinerary with kids in mind.

We stayed in several Florida Keys resorts, including some vacation rental options, and have great recommendations for where to stay as you explore. Also, keeping in mind smaller crowds and the abundance of nature in the Florida Keys, this vacation plan is great for having a one-of-a-kind experience beyond the busier spots in the Keys.

Check out our guide to Key Lime Pie in Key West and the Florida Keys and the Best Places to Kayak in the Florida Keys too!

How to Get to the Florida Keys

No matter how you slice it, the Florida Keys is a road trip. Sure, you can fly into Key West, but you can also fly into other Florida airports and then drive the Overseas Highway as far as you can. And that’s when we get to the big questions about planning a Florida Keys vacation:

• Can I fly into a major airport or do I have to fly into the Keys?
• Are there gas stations along the Overseas Highway?
• What should I expect when driving between the many islands? What if something happens?
• When is the best time to take a Florida Keys vacation?

We’ve got all of those answers for you and more!

Flight Options to the Florida Keys

Yes, you can fly into Key West (EYW) from many East Coast airports, but you can also fly into Miami (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) from nearly anywhere in the USA and Canada. Flights to Key West can be pricey, usually because they including a connecting flight, but there are a fair number of direct flights to Key West also. Flying into Key West, direct flights from out of state are available from:

• Philadelphia
• Washington DC

To make it even easier to visit from the West Coast, you can find direct flights into Miami and Fort Lauderdale from Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Salt Lake City and more. Flying into the Miami/ Ft Lauderdale area is a great idea because you’ll find much cheaper flights than directly into Key West, and the drive from MIA or FLL isn’t bad at all.

By the way, you can enter your location in the search form below and find the cheapest flight options:

It’s only an hour’s drive from Miami International Airport to Key Largo, the northernmost of the Florida Keys. From Fort Lauderdale to Key Largo it’s only an hour and a half. Consider these options when you’re planning your Florida Keys vacation, especially if you’re coming from the West Coast because you’ll save both time and money since there are so many flights on many carriers.

Flight Tip:   if you’re coming from the Pacific Northwest, it’s easy to use miles on Alaska Airlines to get direct flights into Fort Lauderdale (FLL) or use those same miles on partner airlines into Miami (MIA).

Another way to approach getting to the Florida Keys is to add it onto a Florida Gulf Coast road trip . You can fly into Tampa (TPA) or Orlando (MCO) and explore central Florida and the Gulf, hit up Everglades National Park or Biscayne National Park , and then continue south into the Florida Keys → check out Discovercars.com to rent a car for the trip. So many interesting and fun options for seeing all the best Florida has to offer !

Driving the Overseas Highway

Starting in Florida City and ending in Key West ( Key West is fascinating! ), the Overseas Highway is one of the most beautiful roads I’ve ever driven. The Florida Keys road trip is beyond beautiful!

The Beartooth Highway in Montana has epic views and the Pacific Coast Highway through California is loaded with iconic sights, but the Overseas Highway is absolutely breathtaking. Connecting 43 of the nearly 1700 islands in the Florida Keys (most aren’t habitable), the Overseas Highway offers some incredible view. 

On our recent drive from Key West to Key Largo, we saw dolphins and even a giant manta ray jumping as we watched from the car heading up the highway. If you want to dedicate more time to watching the wildlife along the Overseas Highway, there are lots of easy stops you can make, including at many of the state parks just off the main road or go on a nature and historical tour in a comfortable van with a professional guide and visit more than 20 bridges en route to three islands, including stops at Bahia National Park, Blue Hole, and more. Driving the Overseas Highways is a highlight of any Florida Keys vacation.

Tip : make stops along the Overseas Highway for activities like walking the Overseas Heritage Trail near Indian Fill Key or kayak from Spanish Harbor Key near Bahia Honda, one of the best places to kayak in South Florida .

Communities along the Overseas Highway

As you’re driving between Key Largo and Key West, you’ll drive through many small communities. Some truly feel like towns and other seem like they’re just resorts and supporting business along the highway, but drive a block or two over and you’ll find there are shops, restaurants and marinas all over the place. There are gas stations on nearly every Key and grocery stores on Key Largo, Islamorada, in Marathon and also Key West.

Many of the Keys are very narrow, so you may see water on each side of the road, but between the smaller Keys you’ll find nearly every type of service or shop you might want. There are lots of souvenir shops, key lime pie spots, and plenty of fishing charters available as you make stops.

When to Take a Florida Keys Vacation

The weather in the Florida Keys is some of the best in Florida year-round. With a median temperature of 82 degrees F for the year, you can’t go wrong. The coldest month is January with an average of 74 degrees, and the hottest month is typically August with an average high of 89 degrees. Yes, it can be chilly if you go out on the water from any of the Florida Keys, but even visiting in winter months tends to be much warmer than any other place in the USA ( except Hawaii ).

Hurricanes in the Florida Keys

The thing to consider when you’re planning a Florida Keys vacation is hurricane season. While technically hurricane season in the Florida Keys is considered June 1 through November 30, the most active timeframe is August 15 through October 30. That doesn’t mean that there is a constant hurricane watch or that a category 5 is going to develop overnight, but just that this is historically when the most hurricanes have developed.

Something about hurricanes that can actually give you peace of mind when you’re planning a Florida Keys vacation is the advanced warning system for hurricanes. Because hurricanes are storm systems that develop out over the Atlantic Ocean and slowly make their way west, you actually can watch the path of a hurricane far in advance and make travel decisions based on what storm systems are doing. If there is a risk, the Florida Keys will start evacuating in plenty of time to ensure safety.

If you’re deeply concerned about a hurricane ruining your Florida Keys vacation, plan your trip for spring or late fall. You’ll have amazing weather (even if it gets rainy, because Florida is a rainy place) and the chances of a large storm forming are extremely small.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys

There is the full gamut of accommodations options for you to consider. There are Florida Keys resorts that rival the all-inclusive options in Mexico and the Caribbean as well as small boutique hotels in the middle of historic neighborhoods. Choosing where to stay on your Florida Keys vacation is an important part of the planning process. Here’s how I recommend you approach choosing a Florida Keys resort or hotel:

• plan your activities for your trip, spending time in both the Lower and Upper Keys
• set a budget for what you want to spend per night or in total for accommodations
• find a hotel in each of the portions of the Keys you’ll be spending the most time

An example of how to pick your home base for your Florida Keys vacation:  four days exploring Key West and the Lower Keys (including a trip out to Dry Tortugas National Park ), 2 days in the Middle Keys, and 2 days in the Upper Keys – 4 days at a hotel in the Key West area, 4 days at a hotel or resort in the Upper Keys. Note : the Upper Keys have the best places to kayak in the Florida Keys , so you may want more time up there.

Booking your stays so that you don’t have long drives each day will save you lots of time and afford you more opportunities to relax and enjoy the part of the Keys you’re in for the day. You’ll still have opportunities to visit the places between the many Keys, but you won’t have the stress of changing hotels multiple times allowing you to have a more peaceful vacation.

Key Largo vs Key West: What’s the difference?

As we traveled through the Florida Keys and shared our experience on Instagram we got a lot of questions about staying in Key Largo vs Key West, and if a trip should be planned to only visit a part of the Keys vs the whole chain in one adventure. So, here’s the scoop.

Key Largo vs Key West isn’t even a comparison. They are very different places and offer absolutely different experiences. Key West is a city with an historic core, with countless hotels and bed and breakfasts, and is large enough that it’s got its own airport. Key West is a great home base for adventures out on the water, but then also is great for exploring on foot. You can walk to almost anything within the town of Key West and actually don’t even need a car. And there is a ton of key lime pie to try in Key West . ( get my key lime pie recipe here for making at home )

Key Largo is a different story. Key Largo is largely split by the Overseas Highway and while there is a phenomenal bike path/running path on the Key, it’s much less walkable than Key West. Key Largo has several beautiful resorts, a few different marinas and even multiple state parks. It’s more spread out and is much more quiet than Key West. 

Key West vs Key Largo when you’re trying to plan your Florida Keys vacation is more of a concept of splitting your travel into a busy portion and a relaxed portion. Spend time in Key West enjoying the Florida Keys culture and Key Lime Pies, then spend several days based on Key Largo just enjoying the snorkeling and kayaking , and then relaxing at your resort or vacation rental.

Florida Keys Resorts to Consider

As you start to plan your Florida Keys vacation, you’ll see that there really are a lot of resorts and hotels to choose from, of every level. As I said above, it’s best to split your time staying a few days in Key West and then the rest of your time up in Key Largo or the Upper Keys. If your goal is to stay in the middle of the action, choose a Key West hotel that is walkable to Old Town. You can also find B&Bs and boutique hotels that range from super modern to vintage Florida. Key West is wonderfully eclectic in that way.

There are all kinds of short term rentals too, from studios in 19th century homes, to rooms in picturesque bed and breakfasts. Whether you’re visiting for a few nights or a month, private rentals can be a great budget-friendly option over a larger resort or 4 star hotel. If you’re considering a vacation rental or booking through AirBNB or VRBO, be sure that you read the reviews and fully understand the space you’re booking (and the fees too). Watch for notations such as “shared space” or “efficiency.”

Don’t worry, we have Florida Keys resorts to recommend to you too. We’re not going to leave you to the wild west of the internet to find a solid recommendation.

Upper Keys:  Ocean Pointe Suites, Key Largo

We love Key Largo for its chill vibe and abundance of natural areas. The island isn’t as developed as others, but still has lots of great restaurants and activities. On Key Largo, we stayed at the Ocean Point Suites resort. Set away from the Overseas Highway, it’s located on the water with gorgeous views. There is a cafe on property at the clubhouse on the marina, and a full bar, perfect for a drink at sunset on the water.

The condo units of the Ocean Pointe Suites are individually owned and then managed by the hotel, so each unit is different. The layouts and basic features are the same, and all have balconies and a water view, but the units may vary a bit inside.

We stayed in a two bedroom condo unit that slept six:  1 king bedroom w/ bathroom, 1 bedroom with 2 twin beds, and then a pull-out sofa sleeper. There was a full bathroom connected to the main living space, and a washer/dryer stack. We liked the layout of our resort condo suite because there was plenty of room for our family to spread out, and it was quiet enough to be able to work from during our stay.

Booking tip :  advanced booking (more than 2 weeks out) can usually get you a discounted rate, and while you cannot request a specific condo unit number, booking in advance will give you a better chance of securing the room layout you prefer.

We enjoyed the location on Key Largo, the pathways through the mangroves, the private beach and the picturesque pier with a palapa at the end. It was a nice, quiet getaway destination.  Note :  there is also a pool and spa tub on property, but depending on the season may not be accessible/heated.

Book the Ocean Pointe Suite Key Largo Resort here!

Middle Keys:  Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key

The Middle Keys stretch from Seven Mile Bridge at the South to Long Key Bridge at the North. The town/community of Marathon is a part of the Middle Keys , so staying nearby is ideal for a lot of the fishing and diving opportunities in the Florida Keys. We stayed at Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key and loved its central location. It was easy to pop down into Marathon for meals and activities, but then also quick to get up to Islamorada for other adventures (several fishing companies in Islamorada). Great location.

Hawks Cay Resort is similar to Ocean Point Suites on Key Largo in that it’s both a hotel and it’s a collection of privately owned vacation rentals. There is a hotel portion that is just off the main lobby and swimming pools, and then there is a large collection of townhouses, many with private plunge pools. We stayed in a vacation rental townhouse just off one of the canals surrounding Duck Key and the Hawks Cay Resort.

The Hawks Cay Resort also has all the amenities you’d expect of a hotel property of this size:  fitness center, kids club, adult pool, family pool, cafe/marketplace… It’s got it all. There is also, and this was our favorite, a salt water lagoon that was connected to the ocean. There were fish and other sea life in the lagoon, and the kids really enjoyed both swimming and trying to catch creatures.

An attraction at the Hawks Cay Resort that we didn’t do but saw was a dolphin experience. Had we known that this was a part of Hawks Cay we would never have stayed there. There are several dolphins in captivity and whether they are rescues that can’t be released or bred in captivity, we have no idea as there was no information about their captivity record readily available to guests. We do not support dolphin tourism and feel that if you are going to have animals captive for guest experiences, there needs to be transparent information clearly presented to guests.

While the whole of the Hawks Cay Resort was very nice, the surprise dolphin captivity colored the experience for us. We really liked Hawks Cay, it’s a great Florida Keys resort, but wouldn’t return solely because they have dolphins in captivity. We realize that not everyone feels this way, and perhaps things will change in the future re: dolphins, so we do still recommend Hawks Cay Resort for a family Florida Keys vacation.

Book the Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key here.   And here’s a specific vacation rental unit that’s in a great location on Duck Key .

Lower Keys:  Laureate Hotel, Key West

I’ll start by saying that if the Laureate Hotel Key West is in your budget or if you can find a great deal, this is our favorite hotel in all of Florida and you need to stay here. I know that it’s not directly in downtown Key West, but its location is perfect for being right outside of the action and at the doorstep of the rest of the Lower Keys. And the hotel is beautiful and ALL SUITES! Check out our complete review of the Laureate Key West!

Check out our Review of the Laureate Hotel Key West!

We stayed in a 3 bedroom loft suite and it couldn’t have been more perfect for our family. We took advantage of the full kitchen (and grocery delivery service), the dining area, relaxed in the living room and out on both our balcony and our rooftop deck. Our hotel unit had one bedroom on the first level with its own bathroom, then a king room and a 2 queen bed room on the top level, each with access to the rooftop deck.

The hotel is very quiet with covered and off-street parking. The pool and outdoor patio space is also really wonderful, with table games and towel service to go along with plenty of poolside lounge chairs. We loved our time here and would happily return in a heartbeat!

Book the Laureate Hotel Key West here! (really, you should book it)

Lower Keys:  Marker Resort, Key West

This is NOT a budget friendly hotel option in Key West, but staying at the Marker Resort at the Historic Seaport is awesome. The location cannot be beat, especially if you’re heading to Dry Tortugas National Park, and the amenities on property are wonderful. The rooms are very spacious and they all have outdoor space, at minimum a medium sized balcony. The Marker Resort is really wonderful if you’re doing a couples trip to Key West, but maybe not the budget-friendly family option.

Want to stay at the Marker Key West? Book it here!

Camping in the Florida Keys

For as much as I love the comfort and convenience of hotels, there’s something amazing about camping and waking up with your family in the great outdoors. Yes, you have more things to pack and tasks, and you have to be minding of camping safety rules , but it’s all worth it. If your Florida Keys vacation includes camping, you’re in for a treat.

There are 11 state parks in the Florida Keys, starting on Key Largo with Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock State Park (no camping) and ending down at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West (no camping). They’re all rather different regarding the activities available, but of the 11 Florida Keys state parks only four have campgrounds.

• Bahia Honda State Park – Big Pine Key
• Curry Hammock State Park – Marathon / Fat Deer Key
• John Pennekeamp Coral Reef State Park – Key Largo
• Long Key State Park – Long Key

There are other campgrounds in the Florida Keys as well, but most others are more well suited to RV / trailer camping. There is a KOA on Sugarloaf Key (newly renovated, book here! ) and the Sunshine Key RV Resort just north of Bahia Honda State Park, both which offer tent camping. Beyond these, tent camping in the Florida Keys is difficult to come by. The RV camping resorts are plentiful though, and with some planning, your Florida Keys vacation could easily be based out of one of the many RV / marina resorts.

Bugs and Bug Bite Prevention

Even though Florida is gorgeous year-round, it still has a consistent problem: bugs. The cooler months for sure have fewer mosquitoes and no-see-ums but they are around. In the warmer months, particularly in the more stagnate or mangrove areas, mosquitoes are a-plenty. The bugs aren’t as bad as when you’re doing bioluminescent kayaking near Daytona Beach , but they are bad enough to make you uncomfortable.

Our top pick to prevent bug bites in Florida is the Repel Plant Based Lemon Eucalyptus spray . It smells nice, isn’t toxic and is really effective. We also really like Natrapel to prevent mosquito bites . If you do end up with some, be sure you’ve got AfterBite available to make the itching stop . You’ll thank me.

Camping at Dry Tortugas National Park

Ahh, the big question: “How can I go camping at Dry Tortugas National Park?” It’s a camping dream, for sure, and it’s doable with a bit of planning. If you don’t know what it is, Dry Tortugas National Park is located 70 miles west of Key West . You can get there by passenger ferry or via seaplane. The boat ride is more than 2 hours and if it’s windy, can feel a bit rough, but it’s worth it!

If you want to camp at Dry Tortugas , you need to book your fare on the Yankee Freedom (you cannot fly) and work with them to ensure you have passage there are back reserved properly. You’ll need to load up all of your camping gear and supplies, including water, onto the boat and go through orientation with the crew before disembarking. Campers ride the boat out to the National Park with all their gear and supplies then get to camp outside Fort Jefferson (the Civil War era fort on the island) for three days. At the end of their time, they board the ferry back to Key West and have a lifetime of stories to share.

Camping at Dry Tortugas National Park is our dream Florida Keys vacation!

Important things to know if you want to camp at Dry Tortugas National Park:

• must book far in advance via the Yankee Freedom (ferry)
• must pack all your own gear and supplies, there is no water on the island
• there are composting toilets available for campers
• there are picnic tables for visitors and campers
• you must PACK OUT and trash you create

Book the Yankee Freedom passenger ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park here!

You should now understand how to plan a Florida Keys vacation. There are lots of ways to do it and plenty of great options for where to have your home base for the trip. If you have any questions about how to plan a road trip through the Keys, please don’t hesitate to send us a note or leave a comment. 

Please also check out our Florida Keys Itinerary (our exact dining and activities), our top picks for Things to do with Kids in the Florida Keys, and our Guide to Key Lime Pie in Key West and the Florida Keys . Thanks for hanging out with us and happy traveling!

And please pin this post for later so you can come back to book a resort and figure out your plan.

Wednesday 30th of December 2020

I’ve just started dream planning a post-COVID vacation to FL Keys. Thanks for the great guide.

Thursday 31st of December 2020

We have our itinerary and activity/sights/beach suggestions going live on the blog this week too. Check back for more info, and always feel free to ask questions if you need help planning. The Keys are awesome, but a very different region to visit.

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The Ultimate Florida Keys Guide: Planning The Best Road Trip

A Florida Keys road trip is one of those iconic U.S. travel experiences that everyone should do in their lifetime.   The Overseas Highway spans 113 miles over the ocean, with more than forty bridges crossing dozens of tiny keys (islands).

The Miami to Key West drive along Route 1 isn’t difficult, and isn’t even that far—technically you can do it in about 3.5 hours.  But you’d be missing the point.

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The point IS the journey.  In the Keys you’re on island time, no longer driven by the hustle and urban polish of Miami, but rather meandering your way along a narrow highway lined with kitschy diners, slightly careworn marinas, amazing wildlife, bobbing boats, delicious food, and—above all—the sparkling turquoise waters the Keys are famous for.

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I finally planned my own visit in March 2022, and spent six full days meandering up and down the Keys, soaking up the vibes, marveling at the beautiful water, looking for hidden gems, and trying every key lime pie I could get my hands on.

And now I want to bring you a CRRRAAAAAZZZYYY detailed guide to planning your own amazing Florida Keys roadtrip itinerary.

How this Florida Keys travel guide post is structured:

What to pack

• Where to stay in the Keys (in and out of Key West)

General Florida Keys itinerary tips

• How to get to the Keys, & how to get around them
• How to structure your Keys roadtrip itinerary
• What to do in the Upper Keys, Middle Keys, & Key West
• Where to eat and drink in the Florida Keys

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• Sunscreen!   The sun in the Florida Keys is NO JOKE—any and every time of year.  Here are my favorite sunscreens for a beach trip, and a few additional face sunscreens I love.  My favorite natural foundation also provides some sun protection and holds up well for sweaty travel.
• I packed a lot of sundresses , but it was so windy when I visited (the weather was really weird) that I wished I’d brought more super lightweight pants and tops , like my fave Athleta pants .  In general I wished I’d brought a few warmer options for nighttime/early morning (a sweatshirt, thicker cardigan).
• And that same crazy wind (which can be pretty common in the Keys) meant that a sun hat wasn’t super helpful, unless you have one that ties on tightly (like this one ).  I’m more of a headband person than a hat one, so used these ones to try and control my hair in the wind.
• But just because it’s windy, doesn’t mean it’s not brutally hot during the day (even in the winter).  I wished I’d brought extra bras , because I kept sweating through mine and it was really gross.
• You’ll want super comfy shoes for walking around Key West, to not get blisters in the heat.  My absolute fave sandals for this are these Rockport ones , which balance comfort/cushioning and cuteness (party in the front, biz in the back).  For extra cute but still comfy (like walking to dinner), brands like Aerosoles and Naturalizers are great.
• Ideally, keep any sand separate from your regular walking-around shoes to avoid blisters; so if you’re walking on the beach, use simpler and easy to clean flip flops ( Havaianas are my fave).
• Obviously swimming suits are important, and you will probably want at least two.  If you plan on going snorkeling, I recommend a more sturdy type like a one-piece or tankini vs. a flimsy bikini.
• A good beach tote can help you organize and keep track of your belongings as you move around (some people might prefer a backpack, but I don’t).  I love this one .
• Plastic straws are banned in the Keys (though I found many places to offer some kind of alternative), so I brought my metal straws with me
• Two items I found invaluable in helping prevent heat rash and general discomfort were thigh glide and hydrocortisone cream .
• If you’re planning to snorkel and have terrible eyes like me (I wear glasses when needed), a prescription snorkeling mask is a gamechanger!
• I recommend throwing in a small, lightweight microfiber towel for drying off after impromptu beach stops, or even if you want to sit on the ground to picnic.
• Good sunglasses to protect your eyes.  Polarized ones are key (mine are prescription, but these are good regular options).
• An external battery charger comes in handy to keep your phone from dying (taking pics all day and running GPS can drain your battery)

Other Florida Keys adventures to plan your trip!

The Best Key Lime Pie In The Florida Keys: A Definitive Ranking

Exploring Bahia Honda State Park: A Must On Any Florida Keys Roadtrip

Sunset In Key West: The Two Best Spots That AREN’T Mallory Square

Where To Stay In The Keys: Review Of Grassy Flats Resort (Marathon)

Where To Stay In Key West: Review Of H2O Suites

Florida Keys Brewing Company: A Must-Stop On A Keys Road Trip

Exploring Historic Fort Jefferson In Dry Tortugas National Park

Idyllic, Remote Loggerhead Key: Exploring Lesser-Known Dry Tortugas

What It Was Like Multi-Day Open-Water Sailing: Key West To Dry Tortugas

Where to stay in the Florida Keys

When I was planning my week-long Keys roadtrip itinerary, I knew I wanted to spend a couple nights in Key West, but then base myself somewhere more central for the remainder.

After LOTS of searching and reading reviews (and at the exact time I was visiting, hotels were for some inexplicable reason STUPID expensive), here’s where I stayed, and a few other options that were high on the list.

Where to stay outside of Key West

With the sparkling ocean and pools only a few steps away from each other, beautiful spacious rooms, a creative tiki bar, swaying palm trees, and a super central Marathon location, Grassy Flats Resort was the perfect choice.  It was only a few months old at the time and they were still building out parts of the resort.

Grassy Flats has regular rooms, 1-bedroom suites, as well as 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom suites as well.  I was the first person to stay in the brand new Galleon Suite, and thought it was gorgeous.  I loved the view from my balcony, appreciated having a couch to sit on, and would stay here again in a heartbeat.

You can check out my super deep review of Grassy Flats , and look them up on Booking.com and TripAdvisor (or, if you’re looking for the more specialty suite options, their website ).

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The rest of the resort is equally beautiful, with excellent landscaping, very clean, and designed well.  The beach (on the Atlantic side) is actually pretty decent as Florida Keys beaches go (Keys beaches aren’t great), and there are two different pools to choose from.

The service was great, tiki bar is lovely, and the only real downside is that food options are a bit further away (5-10 minute drive).  I highly recommend Grassy Flats if you’re looking for a great central Florida Keys hotel option!

The other non-Key West accommodation options I strongly considered were Bungalows Key Largo (all-inclusive, my friends rave about), Bakers Cay Resort (gorgeous!), Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada, and Hawks Key in Marathon.

Check out my detailed review of Grassy Flats if you want to learn more!

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Where to stay in Key West

Shew, Key West can be expensive.  You can go a couple different directions with accommodation, including Airbnbs.  For a short stay and if you’re willing to pay a bit more, my recommendation is to stay somewhere central, where you can park your car.  Then you can walk, bike, or Uber wherever you need to go.

The other option is to stay a bit further out and get more bang for your buck, and either get in early and find decent (still expensive) parking, or use the free Key West shuttle (a great option!).

I stayed in two different places, and if you’re looking for a splurge then I highly recommend H2O Suites !  You can look at both Booking and TripAdvisor reviews as well, but as you can see in the pics below, it’s beautiful and peaceful, and you get your own little private pool!

I booked the Premier Luxury Suite with Private Pool , and the room was large with a separate seating area.  The staff was very welcoming and the shared hotel areas were gorgeous as well.  I was only there for one night so didn’t really get to take advantage of everything offered at the hotel, but I’d definitely return!

Check out my deeper review of H2O Suites!

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I also spent a night at the Kimpton Ella’s Cottages   (here are TripAdvisor reviews too).  It was really cute, with strong Key West bungalow aesthetic vibes.  I’d actually wanted to stay at Kimpton’s Winslow’s Bungalows instead but they were full on my dates.

The service was super friendly and the property is beautiful.  There’s a small pool area and patio as well, and a continental breakfast.  While the room was simple and pretty, it’s quite small and the walls were pretty thin.  I did love the little porch I had, perfect for sitting with a cocktail in the heat of the afternoon, with the fan blowing on you.

As I mentioned above, hotels were super booked up and insanely expensive for the dates I was there, which affected my choices.  If you’re looking for a real splurge, check out Sunset Key Cottages (amazing!).  The other places I’d looked at staying were the Gardens Hotel , La Te Da (adults only), Marquesa Hotel , and Ocean’s Edge Resort & Marina  (further away, but looks great).

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Let’s start with some general thoughts on what matters and what to expect when planning your Keys roadtrip.

While you CAN go from end-to-end in the Keys in a few hours, the traffic can be bad and you won’t actually be able to *do* anything.  So it’s good to think about the Keys as Upper, Middle, and Key West , and arrange your itinerary accordingly.

As you think about where to stay, if a water view or access is important to you, you’ll really need to think about whether your hotel is Atlantic or Gulf side .  Certainly this matters for sunrise or sunset views, but even the beaches themselves will look a bit different.  Also as a note, I thought that the water in the Islamorada area is maybe the prettiest in the whole Keys.

In particular, weekends can be nuts for crowds and traffic, and so it can be helpful to limit how much you’re driving up and down the Overseas Highway on weekends to avoid getting stuck in traffic jams.

I definitely preferred early mornings and early in the day , both in Key West and just the Keys in general…it has a very chill vibe, less traffic, and is not as hot.  Sunrise crew FTW!

There is a ban on plastic straws in Key West (and I think a lot of the Keys).  I recommend bringing a couple of your own metal straws for easy sippin’.

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When is the best time to visit the Florida Keys?

Any time of year can be great, though July through October tend to be not only the hottest and most humid, but peak hurricane season (September is also muggiest and wettest).  December through February are the busiest in terms of tourism, with the most ideal weather but also most expensive and crowded.

For my money, find the sweet spots of early March (before spring break) and late April through May.   You can also get lucky in November with amazing weather but fewer crowds (pre-Thanksgiving).

Do Florida Keys have beaches?

If you’re looking for an amazing beach vacay with sugary sand beaches, a Florida Keys roadtrip may not be quite what you’re looking for.   While Florida is known for its beautiful white sand beaches (on the Gulf side), you’ll quickly notice that beaches in the Keys don’t live up to that.

The Keys were formed atop coral reefs and are protected by those reefs, meaning the islands don’t have sandy beaches.  They’re usually rough and covered with pulverized coral.

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How to get to the Florida Keys

You’ll probably either fly or drive, depending on where you live.  If you’re flying, you can either fly into Miami or Ft. Lauderdale airports and get your rental car and drive, or fly directly into Key West (and get a rental car too, if you’re exploring the full Keys).  Any of those are good options, so just choose the best flight/airport for you.

Do I need a car in the Florida Keys?

It depends.  If you’re only going to Key West and spending a few days exploring Key West, maybe doing a couple day trips with tours (boat trip, food tour, etc.), then you can get away with not having a car.  Similarly, if you’re going to a resort and literally just staying there the whole time (with maybe a day trip tour or two), then same.

BUT if you’re looking to actually explore the Florida Keys, then yes, you definitely need a car.   There’s no good public transportation, and tons of little spots to stop off at, beautiful views, interesting eateries, cool state parks, and more—without a car, you won’t really experience the Florida Keys.

Just like with hotels, for some reason rental cars were crazy expensive for the dates I was there (also not helped by overall rental car company supply chain issues).  I ended up using Sixt (this is a 15% off link), who I’ve had great experiences with (mostly) internationally, but ended up not being as ideal for this trip.

For some dumb reason, they were charging me a $45 add-on fee for any toll roads I went on, and there are a lot of them headed from Miami airport down to the Keys.  They also charged me more than $10 a gallon for gas when I wasn’t able to re-fill my car (long story, I really tried but the gas tank cover was jammed).

For renting a car, I generally search in a few different places and compare both the prices and specific offerings/benefits.  My go-to’s are DiscoverCars ,  RentalCars.com , and  AutoEurope as well.  I’d go this route for the Keys.

One note, the rental car place is SO far away in the Miami airport, so just be prepared for that (we were delayed & got in around 11:30pm, and the rental car desk closed at midnight so I was hauling ass to get there in time)…it’s long walks on moving sidewalks and then the train.

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Driving in the Keys

Speaking of gas, it’s definitely more affordable before you hit the Keys, so always better to fill up on the mainland if you can.  Make sure you leave tons of time to get back to the airport from the Keys, as traffic gets really bad along the Overseas Highway and also people are really slow.  I ended up accidentally cutting it WAY too close and was panicked.

Be extremely careful about speeding!!!  (Yes, three exclamation points.)  Cops are everywhere looking to stop people, and the speed limit changes constantly.  Sometimes the cops just park an empty car somewhere so it looks like a cop is monitoring you, but I wouldn’t take the chance.

Driving in the Keys is also one of those trips where the journey is just as important as the destination.  Driving along the Overseas Highway is an amazing experience!  It will take as long as it’s going to take…if you’re stuck behind someone slow, you might get lucky with a passing area, but don’t do anything stupid and just be patient.  You’re on island time.

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How to plan your Florida Keys roadtrip itinerary

One of the important things to keep in mind when planning your Keys roadtrip is that you’ll need to be flexible due to weather uncertainty.  If you’re planning any kind of outdoor activity, particularly if it’s on the water, that’s going to impact your itinerary.

One thing you’ll notice as you go through this post is that I didn’t manage to do any snorkeling boat trips.  I was SO BUMMED but the weather when I was there in mid-March ended up being kind of weird, there was a big front of rain, crazy wind, and cooler temps that rolled through just as I arrived.  But you definitely need to consider boat trips and snorkeling!

As I talk about what to do in the Florida Keys much deeper below, I’m going to go geographically from north to south (so Key West is at the end).  But I ended up structuring my itinerary a little differently.  This was entirely due to hotel availability and costs in Key West.

I drove down to Key West for my first two nights, hitting some of the Upper Keys spots as I went.  Then I based myself smack-dab in the middle in Marathon and used that as a base to explore the Middle and Lower Keys a bit more conveniently.

Here was how my actual itinerary worked out:

• Arrived Miami very late at night, got rental car, stayed close to the airport
• Headed down the Overseas Highway first thing in the morning, ended up in Key West that afternoon
• Spent two nights and one full day in Key West
• Drove up to Marathon to base myself the rest of the trip
• Spent one day more in the Marathon/Islamorada area
• Spent time down in Bahia Honda and lower Middle Keys

As I made my way up and down the Keys, from Key Largo to Key West and back, I sampled as many key lime pies as I could get my hands on.  Some I devoured in the restaurant, but more often than not I got them “to go” and enjoyed with a gorgeous Keys view, in my car, or in my jammies in bed.  I’ll speak to some of these in the post below, but you can read my deep-dive post on the best key lime pies in the Keys here!

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Upper Keys:  Key Largo & Islamorada

As I mentioned above, one of my biggest “things to do” in the Florida Keys was to try as many different key lime pies as possible, and the first spot I hit driving south was the original Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen .  It’s got a cute, kitschy diner-like vibe, and if I’d had time I definitely would have stopped for breakfast.

Instead I grabbed a piece of key lime pie to go (at 9:30 in the morning)…you can see where it ranked on my best key lime pie in the Keys deep-dive post , but the short answer is “eh”.  Wasn’t bad, but definitely not top of the list.

As you continue on your way, one cool spot to keep an eye out for if you’re a classic movies fan is the Caribbean Club , where the famous black-and-white film Key Largo (starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall) was filmed.  You can read more about it here !

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Just down the highway you’ll see Harriette’s , who are known not for their key lime pie, but for their famous key lime muffins.

I’m firmly on the record as being anti-muffin (insanely caloric and taste/enjoyment does not live up to it), but their key lime pie muffin is pretty darn good!  Super moist but not crazy sweet.  And again, a really cute diner feel so would be great for a meal.

And then we started getting to the real key lime contenders!  My next stop, Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory in Tavernier, ended being my overall #1 key lime pie in the Keys .

They have many different offerings, all the same key lime pie base but a variety of toppings (whipped cream, meringue, chocolate, frozen on a stick with chocolate, etc.).  I got the meringue even though that’s not usually my thing, but the girl at the counter said it was the traditional one.

The pie’s filling was light and creamy but delightfully tart, the crust was great, and the meringue thankfully didn’t distract from the pie itself.  Near perfection.  I ate my pie out in their peaceful Serenity Garden, which has an amazing sign basically saying that children must be seated and quiet at all times—my kind of place!

Blond Giraffe definitely deserves a short stop on your Florida Keys itinerary!

See the rest of my definitive ranking of Florida Keys key lime pie options!

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At this point, I was JONESIN’ for some real coffee.  At both Mrs. Mac’s and Hariette’s, they only had drip coffee and that’s not really my fave.

So I swung by the adorable Café Moka for an iced latte (in deference to the already blazing mid-morning heat) and some avocado toast…I mean, you gotta soak up all that sugar from the pie at some point.

They have a menu of light lunch fare, delicious-looking pastries, and great coffee, plus not only a cute indoors but nice little patio area as well.

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John Pennekamp State Park

So this one’s a biggie, and I’ll fully admit that I didn’t do it justice.  Renowned as the county’s first undersea park (established in 1963), John Pennekamp State Park encompasses 70 nautical square miles of well-reserved marine life—on Key Largo and about 3 miles into the Atlantic Ocean.  People rave about the beaches, wildlife, snorkeling, and boat tours.

When I was planning my Florida Keys roadtrip, it kept coming up as a must-visit, so it was definitely on my list, and I particularly wanted to do either the glass-bottom boat tour or a snorkeling tour.  Unfortunately when I arrived, the boat trip time I needed was already booked up, and the next one would have been too late for me to make my Key West sunset sail reservation.

I did make a quick stop by both Cannon Beach (first couple pics below), deemed one of the most chill beaches in the Keys, and the tiny Far Beach.

Read more about visiting John Pennekamp park & tips for your visit!

From the underwater coral reefs to the mangrove swamps, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park gives visitors a glimpse of one of the most diverse and beautiful ecosystems.  But overall I don’t think it’s is the kind of park that lends itself to a “drop by”, unless you just want to hang out at the beach for a bit or have a quiet picnic next to the water.

But it’s definitely worth a visit!  It just takes a little planning to make sure you really *see* the things you want to see, particularly the snorkeling or the glass-bottom boat (book ahead!).  And activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, or camping require time.  Make sure you plan ahead!

Two other Key Largo things to call out that I didn’t get to do … Molasses Reef is supposed to be some of the best snorkeling in the Keys, and can be a great boat trip destination.  And if it’s your kind of thing, kayaking through the mangrove tunnels is a unique thing to do in the Keys (check out Florida Bay Outfitters ).

Now we’re making our way south into Islamorada , a village actually encompassing six small keys.  And Midway Café & Coffee Bar is our next stop, one of those “must stop” spots everyone touts.  I tried to visit here on my first day as I was driving south, but it was PACKED, with a line out the door (I think it was a Thursday or Friday).

I strongly recommend avoiding weekends if you can, unless you’re fully in the off-season, or go at a super off time.  So instead this was the very last spot I stopped on my way back to the Miami airport at the end of my trip.  I got an iced coffee and roast beef sandwich that was quite delicious, and their avocado toast which was mediocre.

And of course, the key lime pie.  The filling was great, one of the best, but the crust (a basic pie crust, not graham cracker) really let it down and the meringue didn’t add anything.   It made the upper tier of my list on the filling alone, but there are better options out there.

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Having already sent ourselves into a blood sugar coma, we’ll totally switch gears with our next stop, which is the popular Florida Keys Brewing Co (this is actually a slight backtrack from Midway, by like a minute).  It’s located in the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District, and their kitschy tasting room and colorful beer garden certainly reflect that.

FKBC was the Upper Keys’ first microbrewery, serving up delicious seasonal and tropical-inspired craft brews seven days.  You can take a tour of the brewery, build your own flight of beers to taste, grab a bite from the food truck outside, or play games or listen to music in the garden.

I selected my flight of beers and sipped them out in the back garden.  Out of all of them, the Honey Hibiscus Kolsch and the Hazelnut Hole Irish Red were the most surprising and delightful.

Overall FKBC has a fun vibe and is a great place to while away an hour (or three)!

Read more about visiting the Florida Keys Brewing Co here!

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This is a great stretch to just enjoy the view as well, and stop off from time to time if you see a really beautiful ocean vista.  To me, the water in the Islamorada area was maybe the prettiest…really intense aqua colors, almost opaque at times (like glacier run-off).

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Just down the highway from our beer stop is another great dining or just hanging/drinking option… Lazy Days Restaurant is a fun beachfront restaurant with (supposedly) great sea food and a very chill atmosphere.  It’s definitely worth a stop for lunch, dinner, or just to have a drink and enjoy the view.

I stopped here later in my roadtrip for an impromptu drink and snack, but it was too early for lunch at the time.  I had their key lime pie (good filling, meh crust), a mojito, and sweet potato fries…LOL late breakfast of champions!

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Fueled up on mojito, my next stop was Anne’s Beach , which was a bit of a surprise.  Located on the south end of Lower Matecumbe Key (considered Islamorada), it’s really more of a long interconnected series of tiny beaches, with a great walkway between.

It’s also dotted with pavilions, great for a family get-together or impromptu picnic with some cover from the sun.  The beaches here are a great option for kids, because the water is shallow and calm.  I wasn’t in the mood for laying on the beach (or dressed for it), so I just took a little stroll and enjoyed the view.

For time context, Anne’s Beach is about a 30-40 minute drive south from John Pennekamp State Park.

A few other Islamorada-area things to call out:  

• One thing I REALLY wanted to do was a snorkeling trip out to the lighthouse at Alligator Reef .  it’s supposed to have gorgeous waters and lots of sea life, but the weather did not cooperate with me.  Check out Wild Dolphin Tours as an option.  Though I still think I might pick Molasses Reef over it.
• Founders Park is supposed to be a beautiful beach, good for kids (but costs to enter, and I didn’t bother).
• I did make a stop at Green Turtle Inn for the key lime pie as well (it did not do well in the rankings )

Middle Keys: Marathon, Seven Mile Bridge, & Bahia Honda

I’ve already talked about the wonderful Grassy Flats Resort , but it’s right here at the top end of Marathon, and a great central option—a joy to stay at!

Then as you head down the main drag of Marathon, one of the most traditional white sand beach options is right as you’re hitting the Middle Keys…behold, Sombrero Beach !  I stopped by briefly to check it out in the mid/late afternoon and it was definitely busy and very active, but not crowded.

As Keys beaches (ha! my phone tried to autocorrect that to “please bitches”) go, it’s pretty and a great option with kids.

And now we lunch!  A MUST VISIT in the Marathon area for either lunch or dinner is Keys Fisheries Restaurant & Marina .  This place is a total dive that is so great!  It offers a variety of seafood-based dishes, all super fresh.

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I visited first for lunch, and I had  the fish fingers and sweet potato fries, and tried the key lime pie (solid, in the top tier).  Then I came back a couple days later for dinner and got the fish tacos (a little more disappointing) and snapper Reuben.  There was quite a line at dinner, but it moved fast enough.

Seating is first-come, first-serve, and there’s a great view out over the marina.  This is a total locals place you need to try.

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And now, smack-dab in the middle of the Keys, we come to one of the things that almost EVERYONE says you need to do.  And that’s visit the Turtle Hospital !

Opened in 1986, it was the first facility of its kind in the US (maybe the world), focused on rescuing, rehabbing, and then releasing all kinds of sea turtles.  The tour takes about 90 minutes in total, visiting different areas where the turtles are recovering, and learning tons about them.  For instance, that sea turtle brains (even the giant turtles) are about the size of a thumb—they’re known for their instinct, not smarts.

You definitely should book ahead if possible, particularly during busy season.  Tickets are $30 (when this was published) and it goes to helping keep the (non-profit) center running.  And an important tip, a decent amount of the tour is outside, so wear sunscreen and bring water!

Read more about visiting the Turtle Hospital here!

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Continuing to head south, Porky’s Bayside Restaurant & Marina is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and even has a front seat on the water at the marina.

They have a great drinks menu (I hear the mojitos are great!), but I wasn’t quite ready to dive into cocktails right after all the beer I’d had at FKBC, so went with a refreshing strawberry mint lemonade to go with my fried fish tacos.

The other reason I had to stop by Porky’s???  They’re known for their fried key lime pie, so it was on my must-try list.  It was okay, but texturally not my fave.  One note on Porky’s, they also have live music in the evenings.

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Before we move on from Marathon, one thing I didn’t get to try out was a helicopter tour of the Keys , which is supposed to be amazing—especially at sunset!  One company I saw recommended was JD Premier Aviation Helicopter Tours , and they depart from Marathon Airport.

Otherwise, we keep heading south in the Middle Keys, and are stopping at the awesome newly re-opened walking/biking path on the Old Seven Mile Bridge .  It’s on the right if you’re driving south—I didn’t see signs or anything, just a small parking lot (35 spaces!) on the Gulf side, right before your hit the actual (new) Seven Mile Bridge.

It’s a great path with awesome views, and you have a good chance of seeing lots of wildlife.

And if you’re up to it, you can go a step further and visit isolated little Pigeon Key .  It’s only accessible by walking or bicycling the Old Seven Mile Bridge (about 2.2 miles each way) or by ferry boat.  The ferry departs from the Pigeon Key Gift Shop at 2010 Overseas Highway, mile marker 48.

You can plan your visit at the Pigeon Key website , and also read more tips and reviews on TripAdvisor .  I ran out of time and didn’t get to visit, but would have loved to!

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And now it’s time to drive over the famous Seven Mile Bridge ! This is the new version of the bridge, built in the 1980s.  And it IS actually almost 7 miles long.

The thing you always have to remember is that a Keys roadtrip is really about…a roadtrip.  It’s one of those “it’s the journey not just the destination” things.  And this stretch you’re on from Islamorada to Marathon and down toward Bahia Honda is GORGEOUS!  (I realize the pics don’t do it justice.)

In particular, the view of the old railroad bridge running parallel to the highway is super cool.

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I don’t know exactly where this is, but thought it looked really cool.  This was just a random place I pulled off the road on one of the Keys, and had to stop and take some pics!

Bahia Honda State Park

And Seven Mile Bridge will take you over to Bahia Honda Key, home to Bahia Honda State Park.  This is our last big stop before hitting Key West, and is one of my top recommendations for things to do in the Florida Keys!

Boasting iconic Keys scenery, some of the best white sand beaches in the Keys, and gorgeous turquoise and green water, it’s a pretty small park that’s easy to explore.

I was coming early/mid morning on a weekday, so got to enjoy some solitude and and crashing waves with the Cuban cortadito and empanadas I’d picked up on the drive.  Fueled up, I walked up the (short) old Bahia Honda railroad bridge…you definitely can’t beat the views!

Read more about visiting Bahia Honda (& the bridge’s history) here!

Then I went down to walk along Calusa Beach, which is small but gives you a pretty iconic view of both the old railroad bridge and the current Seven Mile Bridge.  Sunset from here would be amazing!

On the opposite side of the railroad bridge (just a 2-minute walk) is Loggerhead Beach.  To me this is the best beach at the park, and it also has a fabulous reef close to the shore, which provides a fairly unique beach snorkeling experience.  Good beach snorkeling with really interesting fish isn’t common (usually you need to take a snorkeling trip) and I’ve heard here it’s pretty great.

In my opinion, Bahia Honda gives you one of the biggest bangs for your buck—in terms of awesomeness vs. time—of almost anywhere in the Keys.

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Now from Bahia Honda Key I skipped over to Big Pine Key, to visit the famous No Name Pub .  I bellied up to the bar to try their key lime pie (meh) and had a beer…yes, I know, weird combo but their drinks menu didn’t appeal.  The pub is about 10 minutes off the highway, so it’s less convenient for a quick stop.

And just a bit down the road on Summerland Key, I did stop briefly at Mangrove Mama’s as well.  I was tempted to have some food, but it was a weird time of day and I was antsy to get to my next stop, so just got some of their key lime pie to go (you can see where they landed on my ranking ).

To me, both of these stops were skippable.  Don’t get me wrong, both have a fun dive-y feel (like dive bar, not like scuba dive), and if you’re looking for a cool vibe for a chill beer they’d be fine.  But I think you have better options for eating.

Spend a couple days in Key West

And FINALLY, at the very southern tip of the Keys, we come to Key West!  This little 2-mile by 4-mile island (key) boasts some fun history (you can read more about it here ), and makes a great getaway—whether your interest is history, watersports, Civil War-era forts, booze-fueled nightlife, key lime pie, or snorkeling along barrier reefs and enjoying the year-round sunshine.

I stayed two nights in Key West, and tried out two different hotels (I recommend H2O Suites !!).  I made sure both provided parking, so I could avoid the traffic and expensive street parking, and just get around on foot while exploring this cool city.  Actually, it was HOT, soooo hot!  And that was in March…I can’t imagine what July is like.

One of my first orders of business was trying all the amazing coffeeshops…gimme that Cuban cortadito!  I did a lot of just wandering, soaking in the shaded greenery of the sidewalks, white Conch-style houses, and cool historic buildings.

Read my detailed guide to Key West, including some super handy tips!

Duval Street is the center of Key West’s nightlife, but also worth a stroll in the daylight.  It’s lined with tons of restaurants, bars, and shops, including all kinds of live music at night.

At night you can just walk down the street and listen for a style of music that suits you, then head inside.  You’ll also see plenty of bachelor and bachelorette parties swarming (that’s the scientific term, a “swarm of bachelorettes”…).

I was on a mission to try as many key lime pies as possible, and while my overall #1 was not in Key West, there were three Key West spots in my “cream of the crop” grouping.  I definitely recommend  Pepe’s  Café ,  Banana Café , and  Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe …I preferred all of these to the impressive but somewhat-bland “Mile High Key Lime Pie” that’s famous at Blue Heaven.

I also enjoyed a brief rum tasting stop at Key West First Legal Rum Distillery .  I think they offer brief tours too, but you can just belly up to their bar and taste different rums or get a cocktail—I recommend getting their piña colada to go, it was great!  And yes, you can walk and drink in Key West…

And of course, you may decide to get in some quality beach time.  Again, the Keys aren’t known for their amazing beaches, but Key West has a few decent ones for you to try out.  The water and sun are gorgeous regardless.

My top two picks for best beaches were Smathers Beach and the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.  Both are pretty good on the sand/laying out front, as well as for watersports or swimming.  I also visited Higgs Beach but didn’t like it as much.

Read more about the different beach options in Key West here!

Two other things that many “ what to do in Key West ” lists will tell you are a must…

One is visiting the buoy marker for the southernmost point in the continental United States.   Yeah, it’s kind of cheesy and touristy, and i personally wouldn’t wait in line for a pic.  I caught it on an early morning run without the crowds.  I *would*, however, skip the Mile Marker 0 photo op.

The second is exploring Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.  If you’re planning to really make the most of the experience and enjoy the beach and picnic areas, do some snorkeling, walk around the historic fort, and maybe even catch the sunset , I’d definitely recommend it.

If you’re only going to see the fort…meh??  It’s fine I guess, but there isn’t much to see, and doesn’t have great views either.  I would STRONGLY recommend taking a day trip to see Fort Jefferson at Dry Tortugas National Park instead (more on that in a minute!).

A visit to Key West—and the Keys in general—wouldn’t be complete without planning out our sunset strategy.  The famous thing is to head to Mallory Square for their nightly Sunset Celebration, but I wanted to avoid all the crowds and craziness.

One way to combine both a pretty sunset AND getting out on the water (a favorite pastime of mine, and perfect here)  is to book a sunset sailing cruise.

In my research I looked for sunset sail companies offering something chill and not crowded, and ideally on more of a traditional sailboat vs. a giant yacht or catamaran.  I went with Danger Charters “Wind & Wine” tour (see Viator reviews as well) and was really happy with the overall vibe, and the different wines we tried  Not just cheap plonk!  Sebago also gets great reviews

You can read more about my Key West sunset sail here!

On my second night in Key West, I again eschewed Mallory Square and instead grabbed an Uber over to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park (I walked back to downtown afterward).  Note, it does cost to enter the state park (I paid $4.50 as a single-occupant vehicle).

The sunset views from the park’s beach are amazing, and while there were plenty of people there, it never felt crowded at all.  This was exactly the peaceful sunset vibe I was going for.

Read more about the best Key West sunset spots here!

Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park

This is an absolute must on any Florida Keys roadtrip or any Key West itinerary!  Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote U.S. national parks, about 70 miles west of Key West and 150 miles south of the U.S. mainland.  The park is 100 square miles of water, with seven tiny islands in it.

One of those tiny islands houses Fort Jefferson, built in the mid-1800s to protect the U.S.’s shipping interests.  It takes up the entire island it’s on, is the largest all-masonry fort in the U.S., and is SO much cooler than Fort Zachary Taylor!

Most people who visit Dry Tortugas do it as a day trip from Key West, either by sea plane or ferry.  I’d love to try sea plane sometime!  When I visited, I actually did a 5-day private sailing charter, so got to see some other parts of the park (like stunning Loggerhead Key ).

Read more about visiting Dry Tortugas & Fort Jefferson!

Where to eat & drink in the Florida Keys

We’ll chunk this off by Upper, Middle, and Key West again, for simplicity.  Starting with the Upper Keys, here are some places I tried and my thoughts.  I’ll also mention a few places I didn’t get to, in case they’re of interest.  And we’ll start with the Upper Keys—largely Key Largo and Islamorada.

• The original Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen .  It’s got a cute, kitschy diner-like vibe, and if I’d had time I definitely would have stopped for breakfast.
•   Harriette’s , who are known not for their key lime pie, but for their famous key lime muffins.
•   Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory  in Tavernier, ended being my overall  #1 key lime pie in the Keys .
• Café Moka – Delicious coffee, pastries, or light lunch options, with a pretty inside and cute little patio area.
• Midway Café & Coffee Bar – Super popular so can get crowded with long lines (try an off time), but really cool spot and good menu.
• Florida Keys Brewing Co   – This cool microbrewery gives you the chance to try some local beers, maybe grab a taco, and enjoy a fun, quirky back patio (with live music sometimes).
• Lazy Days Restaurant – A fun beachfront restaurant with (supposedly) great seafood and a chill atmosphere.
• Bayside Gourmet – This feels like a real locals spot, I came here for some key lime pie one night it was pouring.  I didn’t get to try any of the other food but it gets good reviews.

A couple spots I wanted to try but didn’t have the chance to were Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar (great waterfront spot) and Chef Michael’s .

Now we’ll talk Middle Keys, where I spent quite a bit of time.  Most of these are grouped around the larger Marathon area.

• Keys Fisheries Restaurant & Marina – This place look like (and is) a total dive, and it is so great!  I loved the fish fingers and sweet potato fries, and all their seafood is really fresh.
• Porky’s Bayside Restaurant & Marina – A good option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with a pretty big menu and a front seat on the water at the marina.  I had fish tacos (delish!) and the drinks menu is great too.
• Sunset Grille – This was a cool spot right before Seven Mile Bridge, and would make a really great sunset option (and happy hour!).  They had delicious sounding apps, I grabbed the short rib tacos, fried Brussels sprouts chips, fried cheese curds, and a mojito after touring the Turtle Hospital.
• Morada Bay Beach Cafe – I’m sure this probably would have been a great restaurant for sunset, but was POURING when I visited for dinner.  So I didn’t really get the full experience, but found it overpriced (especially the drinks).  I got the fish & chips (red snapper), and it was pretty good though the coleslaw was terrible.
• SS Wreck – Definitely a locals place, fun to watch people interact. I got takeout because the weather was nutty and super windy, I was tired and it was the only thing super close to where I was staying.  The food was okay, nothing great.
• Curly’s Coffee – A little drive-thru or walk-up in Marathon, fairly basic (coffee wasn’t great but it was my best option). Try the Happy Keys Latte, iced…made with coconut and cinnamon.
• Marathon Bagel Co – I had an early weekend morning breakfast here and they have lots of choices.  I got the special with brisket (too crazy for me, but a fun idea), and a bagel with lox.
• No Name Pub   – Famous for some reason, this dive bar was a bit out of the way, and I didn’t see anything special.  I didn’t have a meal there, so maybe the food is good?
• Mangrove Mama’s – Similarly, I made a quick stop here for key lime pie but didn’t try the food.  It’s cute but felt skippable.

A couple places I wanted to try but didn’t get to were Castaway and Marathon Grill & Alehouse , both in Marathon.

One thing to keep an eye out for is little hole-in-the-wall spots, shacks, food trucks, and the like.  I found some delicious empanadas and Cuban coffee one morning and took it over to Bahia Honda State Park for a beautiful breakfast moment.

A shout-out to El Habanero Cuban Coffee as well, a cash-only little stand I stumbled upon along the highway fairly close to my hotel in Marathon.

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And finally, all the delicious things to eat in Key West!  I had trouble finding good dinner options, because I didn’t plan ahead and make reservations, and I’m not willing to wait more than like 15 minutes for a seat.  But my breakfasts and lunches were primo.

• Banana Café – A great and extensive menu, I had a delicious veggie crepe with beets, asparagus, caramelized onions, goat cheese, and avocado, and one of my top-five key lime pies.
• Pepe’s Cafe – Similarly, the breakfast and key lime pie here was delicious (my #2 key lime pie overall!).  They’ve got a really solid-looking menu overall
• Cuban Coffee Queen – They have two different locations, serving breakfast, smoothies, sandwiches, and of course, delicious Cuban coffee.  The Margaret St. one has the iconic Key West mural.
• Keys Coffee Company – They make a frozen café con leche that is DELICIOUS!  It’s not a true slushy frozen, just bits of ice flecked throughout.  I had like four of these in two days.
• Key West Cuban Coffee – This spot had a fabulous menu but I’d already eaten way too much, so didn’t get to try the arepas or other delicious things on the menu.  I did, however, get an iced cortadito and it had WAY too much granulated sugar in it—blech.  The guava and cheese empanada was great though.
• Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe – One of the best key lime pie options in town!
• Blue Heaven – Tends to appear on every Key West list, but also tends to have a long wait.  I had a decent fresh fish meal along with a mojito and their famous “mile high meringue” key lime pie (which I wasn’t a fan of).
• Moondog Café – I devoured the Frenchman burger, truffle fries, and sweet potato fries with lime curry sauce while sipping their peach basil sangria.  Lol, so I liked it.
• Tiger Bar – I had dinner here one night and it’s definitely unique.  They have an interesting wine menu (I got the Lambrusco) and no real cocktails.  It’s a limited small plates menu, with some fascinating dishes (many of which I couldn’t eat).  I tried their tea-deviled eggs (delicious and interesting), beef tartare (good but hot, my favorite), Korean fried chicken (delicious but spicy), and lamb ribs (great flavor but fatty and hard to eat).
• Lagerheads Beach Bar & Watersports – A hidden gem right on the water, with a beach shack vibe and its own tiny beach you can sit on (note, the beach is public).
• Flamingo Crossing – Yummy ice cream!!  I tried the strawberries & cream and Cuban coffee flavors and both were great…I wish I could have tried more.  Note, it’s cash-only.

Boy, the list of places I didn’t get to try out is loooong…here’s the short list 🙂

• 5 Brothers Grocery – Supposed to have great café con leche.
• Sarabeth’s – Supposed to be delicious breakfast, and in a pretty older building.  I did have the key lime pie and was not a fan.
• First Flight Island Restaurant and Brewery – The southernmost craft brewery in the U.S., but is also located in the building where Pan American World Airways started in 1927.  Supposed to be a cool setting with good food and very good beers (and apparently, homemade sangria).
• Santiago’s Bodega – Great tapas (reservations required, even for the bar).
• Nine One Five – On lower Duval, supposed to have an imaginative menu and well-presented cocktails.

I am so glad I finally spent some time exploring as many nooks and crannies of the Keys as I could cram into one week.  Hopefully this Florida Keys roadtrip itinerary is super helpful to you for planning your own adventure!

Other amazing U.S. roadtrips you’ll love:

• A Jam-Packed Itinerary For California’s Sonoma County
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• An Amazing Southern Utah Roadtrip: Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks
• A Guide To The Oregon Coast

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March 19, 2023 at 9:24 pm

Enjoyed reading through your article as I plan my May trip to the Florida Keys. Thanks for sharing.

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Florida Keys Road Trip: One-Week Itinerary (2023)

10/15/2023 by Nicole Edwards 1 Comment

Are you looking for the complete Florida Keys adventure? I spent about four months exploring from Key Largo to Key West on my sailboat and have put together the perfect one-week itinerary.

The Keys are a beautiful place to spend a solo vacation . It only takes about 2.5 hours to drive the 100 miles from end to end. This is a strip of paradise though, so it can be quite expensive. Here’s what I recommend in regards to saving money, places to go, things to do, and where to stay:

Table of Contents

Getting There and Transportation

There is an international airport in Miami and one in Key West , so technically, you could get a one-way ticket to Miami and then leave from Key West (or vice versa). This is 100% personal preference. I recommend you rent a car if you are only visiting for a week. But everything is totally doable if you go for the “ bus and bike ” option and take the pedestrian portion of the historic Overseas Highway. I believe most people will fly into Miami though, so let’s start from there.

Also consider time of year. Hurricane season may not be the best time to visit, and the summers can be quite hot and sticky, but this is a great spot for March , April , May , and November .

The Florida Keys are by no means cheap, but it’s still possible to visit on a budget if you do your research.

If you’re on a budget, like I was, even the more affordable hotels can really tear a hole in your wallet. Just in accommodations, you are looking at $1,200 for the week. So definitely click on our links to accommodations to learn about cheaper places in the area to stay, like camping in parks or sleeping on a boat. Most hotels include parking, so keep in mind that almost all lots, especially in Key West, are paid.

On top of that, expect to spend about $20 at a restaurant, and if you get a drink, tack on another $10. You will spend half as much, though, if you shop at grocery stores and picnic on the beaches (I will go into this in more detail). Most state parks have a small admission fee (around $2.50 for a pedestrian or $5 for a vehicle). Museums will be around $15-$25 (though there are some free ones!). A majority of the partial-day tours and excursions will be around $100. Full-day activities could be closer to $500.

You can save money if you bring your own snorkeling gear and fishing equipment and stay at hotels that offer complimentary use of kayaks or a discount on boat rentals.

The itinerary below starts in Key Largo, but you can start in Key West instead and reverse it.

Day 1: Arrive in Key Largo

Try to arrive in Key Largo just before lunch and then get a morning walk in at the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, located on the northern tip of the island. From there you can swing over to the grocery store called Publix to grab one of its famous Pub Subs and maybe a picnic lunch for tomorrow ( you can also order online ). Then eat your sandwich at Cannon Beach or Far Beach in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

After lunch, it’s time to get out on the water! There’s plenty of snorkeling off the coast of Key Largo, which is called the diving capital of the world for a reason. But one sight you can’t get anywhere else in all the Florida Keys is the Christ of the Abyss statue, so I’d recommend you do that! (Note: You need to use only reef-friendly sunscreen anytime you are near or in the water.)

Christ of the Abyss is a statue at the bottom of the ocean, about 25 feet down. It honors the lives of those lost at sea. If you want go in a tour to see the statue , you have to be able to hold your breath for at least 30 seconds and be a competent swimmer. If Christ of the Abyss isn’t for you, check out this article for some more Key Largo snorkeling .

By this point you’ll probably be pretty tired, though there’s still a lot of things to do in Key Largo . If you can, go ahead and drive the twenty minutes to the town on Key Largo called Tavenier. This will stage you for the next day. A good place to stay in Tavernier is Atlantic Bay Resort , as kayaks and bikes there are complimentary. If this doesn’t work for your schedule, check out our list of recommended Key Largo areas and hotels here.

Day 2: Explore Tavernier on Key Largo

If your hotel has kayaks, spend the morning out on the water exploring the mangroves and bird-watching. Then hop on a bike and head over to the Harry Harris Park (or another of Key Largo’s beaches ), where you’ll get some gorgeous ocean views. When your food is all settled in your stomach, bike the three miles to the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary and spend the rest of the day there. Before you move on to Islamorada, stop in the Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory to get a treat for the road.

You’ll want to make it to Islamorada tonight, where I recommend staying at Sunset Inn , which offers fishing charters.

Day 3: Islamorada

Welcome to Islamorada, the sportfishing capital of the world! Bright and early in the morning, it’d be appropriate to head out on a fishing charter . You’ll likely spend a good bit of the day casting a line, so enjoy it, and hopefully you’ll catch your dinner! If you didn’t catch a fish for dinner, you can always go to Robbie’s Marina where there is also a fun opportunity to feed the tarpon.

In the afternoon, definitely check out the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park.

If you opted to bike the Florida Keys, you can take a break from the pedals and explore with Freebee , a free electric-vehicle transportation service.

In the evening, head back to your hotel, because tomorrow there’s just a bit more to discover, included below.

Day 4: Islamorada to Marathon

In the morning, try to get out to Indian Key by kayak . It’s a beautiful ghost island, and you’ll likely have the entire place to yourself. If you’re just not up for the trip, you can go to Rain Barrel Village for a souvenir (they have Key West items probably for cheaper than on Key West itself!) and the Hurricane monument. Then enjoy a picnic lunch at the Library Beach Park.

Islamorada has some beautiful reefs. I went to Hen and Chickens and felt like I was swimming in an aquarium. For this reason, I highly recommend you take the afternoon and explore Islamorada’s underwater world!

After your snorkeling excursion, hop back in the car and head to Marathon for the night. I suggest staying at Captain Pip’s Marina and Hideaway because you get 10% off a boat rental. But there are plenty of other places to stay in Marathon if something else suits your fancy. 

Day 5: Marathon to Big Pine to Key West

Today is the day that you should do something a little outrageous. If you’ve never rented a boat before, definitely do it. Go out to the local sandbar or visit the rocky shallows of Gilligan’s Island (you’ll want to go at low tide). If you’ve always wanted to take a plane tour, you’ll have beautiful views of the 7-Mile Bridge and the rest of the Florida Keys. Or, if you are dying for more adventure, you could visit Keys Cable Park or go parasailing.

On the other hand, if you haven’t made it to a beach yet, I’d say that Marathon has some of the most beautiful ones in all the Keys (my favorite is Coco Plum). There’s also fishing , snorkeling , and dolphin and whale watching . Whatever your heart desires, take this day to get it done.

For more inspiration, read our top 29 things to do in Marathon here .

Big Pine Key

Try to leave Marathon by 2pm because there are some things you should see and do around Big Pine Key , like Bahia Honda State Park and the Calypso Bridge.

Then, specifically around 4pm, head to the National Key Deer Refuge. This protects the smallest species of North American deer, native only to the Florida Keys. I say 4pm because that’s when the deer come out to forage for food. The refuge is drivable and bikeable, and while you look for deer, you can also head to the blue hole, which is within the refuge. It’s the only freshwater lake in the Florida Keys and is home to two alligators.

For dinner, hop over one street to get to the famous No Name Pub. The pizza is supposedly to die for (I was craving a burger, and it hit the spot).

After dinner, it really is best if you take a night drive to Key West, about 45 minutes from Big Pine. That way, you’ve got the entire next day to get to know this quirky and southernmost Florida Key.

To get the true Key West experience (you’ll notice as soon as you arrive that there are hundreds of boats anchored in the harbor), you should stay on a sailboat !

I get that this is not for everybody though. A centrally located and affordable land-based pick for this one-week itinerary would be the historic Casablanca Hotel with its Irish pub. You can find more hotels and areas to stay in here.

Day 6: Key West

By this time you’ve had a chance to go kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling, check out some beautiful beaches and state parks, and get some Florida Keys souvenirs. This means that you can save Key West for all things unique to Key West! There’s a lot to do here , and it’s easy to get overwhelmed, but there are a few things you must do before you leave. Here’s what I recommend:

First thing in the morning, get a cup of Cuban coffee (you’ll need it) and then explore Key West. You can do a self-guided tour on foot, by bike, scooter, or golf cart. Or you can take one of Key West’s guided tours (if this is your first time here, I recommend this). While you’re exploring, take a picture at the Southernmost Point and Mile Marker 0.

After you get the lay of the land, pick a museum of interest (my favorite was the Turtle Museum). There are so many to choose from — you can find a list of my top Key West museums here.

When you’re done with the museum, grab a bite to eat and then head to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. Here you can see the old fort, get a spectacular aerial view of the ocean, and lounge on the beach until your sunset cruise !

After your cruise and if you’re up for it, head out to Duval Street. You can grab a drink at one of Key West’s many bars to get a taste of the thriving nightlife. And then crawl into bed for a good rest for your last day in the Florida Keys.

Day 7: Key West and then home

If you spent yesterday on land, I recommend you spend most of your last day on a water excursion . My favorite was discovering the islands in the backcountry (particularly Boca Grande), spotting dolphins, snorkeling, and relaxing. In the afternoon, you can check out an art gallery, then buy a slice of that famous Key Lime pie.

Then it’s probably time to embark on the 4-hour drive back to Miami. If you’re flying out of Key West, however, you can head straight to the airport and catch your flight home.

I hope this itinerary balances out the activities and sights on both land and sea, and helps you plan your trip. One week is just enough time to experience the best of what each Florida key has to offer. It’s also a great opportunity to discover some places you’d like to visit again.

What are you looking forward to most?

About Nicole Edwards

Nicole is a single-handed sailor sailing the world and sharing her journey on her YouTube Channel, Sailing Artha. She prefers the type of travel that gets her into nature, and she actively seeks out farm and trash pick-up volunteering opportunities.

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Pure Spritiual Healing says

10/18/2023 at 10:33 pm

Your one-week Florida Keys road trip itinerary for 2023 is a well-crafted adventure guide that ensures a delightful journey through this picturesque region.

Planning Your Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip (use this guide!)

If you are looking to escape for a little while, to feel like you are in a different world, to explore history, to get out on the wide-open bright-blue ocean, to eat fresh seafood and sip strong coffee, look no further than the Florida Keys. It is truly a unique place and great for any vacation personality. So, let’s travel together on a Florida Keys Road Trip in this article so you can plan the ULTIMATE vacation for yourself, your family, or your friends.

Now, I know what you are thinking, why are we road tripping instead of flying? Well, the Florida Keys is very driveable, in fact, there is one main road that runs down all the keys. This makes it very easy to travel from one point to another and makes directions very easy. To get from one end to the other, it takes about 3 hours. Each key is unique and offers different attractions, unique places to eat, and varying vibes. By road tripping it, we get to experience it all.

So, we are going to start our Florida Keys Road Trip at the very tip, the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States, Mile Marker 0, you know where I am talking about…Key West!

Table of Contents

My favorite key that we explored was Key West. It’s the biggest, has the most things to do, places to eat, and places to stay. I found it really charming and just loved the city.

My biggest piece of advice: We stayed downtown and within walking distance of everything and I cannot recommend this enough. Parking can be difficult and Key West is VERY walkable and pedestrian friendly. Everything is within walking distance if you stay somewhere downtown. You also get to experience more when you are walking to each destination than just driving.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Laurel McDaniel (@lltmcdaniel)

Where to Eat in Key West

• Blue Heaven * (Highly recommend the Yellowtail Snapper and BBQ Shrimp; you can skip the Key Lime Pie, its famous, but not that great)
• Hogfish Bar and Grill
• First Flight * (Birthplace of Pan Am Airlines; Highly recommend the Shrimp BLT Wrap)
• Keys Coffee Co. *
• Cuban Coffee Queen *
• Garbo’s Grill @ Hans! * (Outside food truck experience; yummy fish tacos)
• Clemente’s Wood-Fired Trolley Pizzeria * (Great authentic pizza)

What to do in Key West

• Smather’s Beach
• Southernmost Point of the Continental US
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
• The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
• Key West Lighthouse
• The Hemingway Home and Museum
• US1 – Mile Marker 0
• Truman Little White House
• Mallory Square (at sunset)
• Dry Tortugas National Park

Recommended Read: Sail Away to the Dry Tortugas National Park

Where to Stay in Key West

We stayed at the Marquesa Hotel and really loved it. The hotel consists of several historic homes that they renovated and turned into a hotel. There is a nice restaurant on property and the “backyards” were turned into a pool oasis. The location was wonderful, we parked at the hotel and walked everywhere while in town.

Although it was an older home, it was not stuffy, did not feel like it was old, and we did not get sick (which often happens when we stay in older buildings). We loved it and highly recommend you staying there, but here is a list of places we considered:

• Marquesa Hotel *
• The Gates Hotel
• Perry Hotel
• Southernmost Beach Resort
• The Crown Plaza
• Ocean Key Resort
• Casa Marina

Marathon Key

After leaving Key West, the next main key is Marathon Key. My husband has stayed on this key before and really loved it. It is a great location if you are wanting to stay in on one key your entire trip. It is bigger and in driving distance to Key West if you want to do a day trip and driving distance to keys to the East.

My biggest piece of advice: Watch out for speed limits on this key. The famous and endangered Key Deer live on this key, so speed limits are low, decrease at night, and are enforced. Even if you don’t stay on this key though, take time to drive around and try to spot a key deer. They are small and can be found just wandering in yards or on the side of the road.

Where to Eat in Marathon

• Key’s Fisheries
• Sparky’s Landing
• Sunset Grill
• Havana Jack’s
• Island Fish Company * (Great coconut shrimp)

What to do in Marathon

• Bahia Honda State Park (Very popular, paid entry, a great place to stay all day)
• Dolphin Research Center
• Crane Point Hammock Museum
• Look for Key Deer
• Rent a boat and go fishing or boating
• Anne’s Beach

Where to Stay in Marathon

• Faro Blanco Resort
• Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel
• Islabella Resort
• Hawks Cay Resort

Islamorada Key

Continuing to drive up US1, the next main key we will get to is Islamorada. When my husband and I took our Florida Keys Road Trip, this is where we stayed the second half of our trip. We wanted to explore all of the keys and Islamorada is a great location, being about 30 minutes away from both Marathon and Key Largo.

Where to Eat in Islamorada

• The Green Turtle Inn * (Highly recommend shrimp and grits)
• Island Grill

What to do in Islamorada

• Robbie’s Marina – Tarpon Feeding *
• Morada Way Arts & Cultural District
• Islamorada Brewing Company
• Theatre of the Sea
• Founder’s Park

Where to Stay in Islamorada

So this section is going to be a little different than the rest, because I am going to tell you a few places to NOT stay, or to at least be weary of on Islamorada. There is a group of four sister hotels all called the Islamorada Resort Company which includes the Pelican Cove Resort, La Siesta Resort, Amara Cay Resort, and Postcard Inn Resort.

We stayed at the Pelican Cove Resort and we felt bamboozled and catfished. Their website advertised restaurants and amenities that were not actually at that property, but at one of the sister properties that you could visit. The rooms were small and minimal and although appeared clean, after two nights at the resort, we were both feeling sick. The good thing is that we were able to check out halfway through our stay and get a full refund.

Now, I am not saying you shouldn’t stay at these resorts, but in our opinion they were WAY overpriced for what they offered and their website and social media was deceiving.

Here are some other places that we considered for you to look into:

• Drop Anchor Hotel
• Casa Morada
• Cheeca Lodge and Spa
• The Moorings Village

“Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go…” you know you want to keep singing it. If you aren’t playing this Beach Boys song as you drive through Key Largo, you are doing it wrong. Key Largo is our last stop on our Florida Keys Road Trip. It is the key that is furthest East/North. We did not stay here but visited during our time. We did have some friends who stayed in Key Largo the week before us though and loved the area.

Where to Eat in Key Largo

• Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen * (Great key lime pie)
• Alabama Jacks * (This is on the way out of the keys, so a great place to stop on your wait out or in)
• Sunrise Cuban Market
• Hobo’s Café *
• Lazy Lobster

Recommended Read: Spotting Gators at the Everglades National Park

What to do in Key Largo

• John Pennycamp Coral Reef State Park (Our trip got cancelled for weather, but highly recommend doing a snorkel trip as a lot of this park is underwater)
• Harry Harris Park
• Wild Bird Sanctuary
• Rain Barrel Village

Where to Stay in Key Largo

•  Drift Hotel
• Kona Kai Resort
• Ocean Pointe Suites
• Bakers Cay Resort (This is where our friends stayed and highly recommend)
• Playa Largo Resort

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive through the florida keys.

There is only one road to drive on to get from the Upper Keys (Key Largo) to the Lower Keys (Key West at the end), so the time it takes you to get from one end to the other can really vary. If you catch traffic, if there is a car wreck, or construction, your trip can really be slowed down. It took us about 3 hours to get from Key Largo to Key West.

Is it worth driving the Florida Keys?

Short answer, yes! I am a huge proponent to driving places, because it gives you a lot of freedom. There are so many things to do on each of the keys, as you saw above, so by driving the Florida Keys you are able to hit all of those attractions. If you do not plan on driving, the most walkable key is Key West.

How many days do you need to visit the Florida Keys?

How many days you need to visit the Florida Keys depends on what all you want to do. We spent 6 days and felt that we had enough time to do everything we want to do, except a snorkel adventure which got cancelled. We spent 3 days in Key West, including a day at the Dry Tortugas National Park. Again, we did everything we wanted to in that amount of time.

Which Florida Key should I visit?

This is such a hard question to answer, because it depends on your preferences. I would say there is more to do and see in Key West, hence why it is the most popular. But if you plan on boating or fishing, Marathon or Islamorada might be better for you.

The warm breeze and tropical climate of South Florida transports you to paradise, but the best way to experience everything is with a Florida Keys Road Trip. I hope that this guide helps you as you plan for the best places to stay, best places to eat, and best things to do in the Florida Keys.

Do you have something you would add to the guide? Comments down below! I would love to hear about your impressions of the Florida Keys.

If you find yourself road tripping through Florida, then check out my other Florida resources and specifically my Guide to Southwest Florida to help you plan your trip!

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Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Planning a Trip

Planning a Trip in The Keys

After you've left the Florida Turnpike and landed on U.S. 1, which is also known as the Overseas Highway, you'll have no trouble negotiating these narrow islands, as only one main road connects the Keys. The scenic, lazy drive from Miami can be very enjoyable if you have the patience to linger and explore the diverse towns and islands along the way. If you have the time, I recommend allowing at least 2 days to work your way down to Key West, and 3 or more days once there.

Encouraging you to slow down is the new $21-million, 106-mile Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, a work in progress that is creating a scenic, multi-use paved trail for bikers, hikers, runners, fishermen, and sightseers running parallel to the Overseas Highway and extending from Key Largo all the way down to Key West. With 66 of the 106 miles already completed and 11.5 miles of trail and five bridges under construction, the rest of the trail is still under design and scheduled for completion by 2013.

Most of U.S. 1 is a narrow two-lane highway, with some wider passing zones along the way. The speed limit is usually 55 mph (35-45 mph on Big Pine Key and in some commercial areas). Despite the protests of island residents, there has been talk of expanding the highway, but plans have not been finalized. Even on the narrow road, you can usually get from downtown Miami to Key Largo in just over an hour. If you're determined to drive straight through to Key West, allow at least 3 1/2 hours. Weekend travel is another matter entirely: When the roads are jammed with travelers from the mainland, the trip can take upward of 5 to 6 hours (when there's an accident, traffic is at an absolute standstill). If at all possible, I strongly urge you to avoid driving anywhere in the Keys on Friday afternoon or Sunday evening.

To find an address in the Keys, don't bother looking for building numbers; most addresses (except in Key West and parts of Marathon) are delineated by mile markers (MM), small green signs on the roadside that announce the distance from Key West. The markers start at no. 127, just south of the Florida mainland. The zero marker is in Key West, at the corner of Whitehead and Fleming streets. Addresses in this chapter are accompanied by a mile marker (MM) designation when appropriate.

Don't Be Fooled

Avoid the many "tourist information centers" that dot the main highway. Most are private companies hired to lure visitors to specific lodgings or outfitters (anything that says FREE DISNEY TICKETS or something like that is probably a scam or timeshare racket). You're better off sticking with the official, not-for-profit centers (the legit ones usually don't advertise on the turnpike) that are extremely well located and staffed.

Sweet Home Alabama (Jack's)

On its own, there's not much to the waterfront shack that is Alabama Jack's, 5800 Card Sound Rd., Card Sound (tel. 305/248-8741 ). The bar serves beer and wine only, and the restaurant specializes in delicious, albeit greasy, bar fare. But this quintessential Old Floridian dive, located in a historic fishing village called Card Sound between Homestead and Key Largo, is a colorful must on the drive south, especially on Sunday, when bikers mix with barflies, anglers, line dancers, and Southern belles who look as if they just got off the Hee Haw set in all their fabulous frills. Live country music resurrects the legendary Johnny Cash and Co. Pull up a bar stool, order a cold one, and take in the sights -- in the bay and at the bar. The views of the mangroves are spectacular. To get here, pick up Card Sound Road (the old Rte. 1) a few miles after you pass Homestead, heading toward Key Largo. Alabama Jack's is on the right side and can't be missed.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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A Visitor’s Guide to the Florida Keys: Trip Planning

T he Florida Keys are one of the Sunshine State’s most popular tourist destinations. This group of more than 1,700 islands located off the southern tip of Florida is divided into the Upper, Middle, and Lower Keys and stretches to the southernmost city in the continental United States: Key West. A visit to the Florida Keys is a great way to enjoy some nature, history, and fun in the sun on your next vacation.

Your Guide to a Memorable Stay in the Florida Keys

Preparing for travel.

If you look at a map of the Florida Keys, you’ll notice the area isn’t that large, but with so much island territory, it’s important to prepare for weather and transportation needs.

When to Visit

The Florida Keys weather is fairly predictable. This tropical climate has mild and pleasant winters with temperatures around 70 degrees. Summers are warm and humid, around 90 degrees. Visit earlier in the year if you want to avoid the rainy season from June to October. You’ll run the risk of hurricanes from June 1 to Nov. 30, although the Florida Keys experience fewer hurricanes than other parts of Florida.

How to Get There

Driving from mainland Florida along U.S. Route 1 (the Overseas Highway) is the most scenic route into the Keys. The Florida Keys airport in Key West is convenient and has rental cars and shuttles available to visitors if you don’t want to visit any other Florida destinations first.

Where to Stay

From Miami to Key West, the drive is about three hours, so it’s possible to explore all of the best Florida Keys attractions no matter where you stay along the route.

All-Inclusive Resorts

While not the most popular lodging option in the area, all-inclusive resorts in the Florida Keys can be a great option for travelers who want a carefree and luxurious experience.

The newly renovated Casa Marina Resort in Key West offers romantic luxury, a private beach, an on-site spa, and occasional all-inclusive package deals. Book a stay at Little Palm Island Resort and Spa where the all-inclusive resort boasts an entirely private island for its guests for the ultimate indulgent beach location. The Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a great option for more budget-conscious travelers who still want an all-inclusive feel, and some packages offer great family-friendly tours and entertainment.

Best Family Spots

Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo offers classes for kids during the day including a fishing program that might just provide your next meal. Hotels in Key West include the Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa — with lots of rental gear and large, private balconies — and the Southernmost Beach Resort — within walking distance of many fun attractions.

Vacation Rentals

Getting a vacation rental in the Florida Keys is an easy way to experience local neighborhoods and avoid the most crowded tourist hotels. Make sure to check parking accommodations as many areas have limited space.

Popular Attractions

The Florida Keys are packed with attractions highlighting the vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and marine ecosystem.

Embrace Nature

One of the best reasons to visit the Florida Keys is to experience marine wildlife up close and personal. Dry Tortugas National Park is west of Key West hosting Fort Jefferson and an impressive array of local birds and coral reefs. Visitors must arrive by boat or seaplane, adding to the adventure and sense of exploration. There are guided tours and opportunities for snorkeling and diving in one of Florida’s most active reef environments. In the Islamorada area, head to Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park for a kayaking adventure through a hardwood hammock.

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon is a great way to learn about marine conservation and help support animal rehabilitation efforts. Visitors can even feed the turtles after a guided tour. If swimming with dolphins or meeting a local parrot is more your speed, head to Theater of the Sea in Islamorada to enjoy a whole day of marine fun.

Experience the Culture

The Florida Keys host year-round events, festivals, and artist workshops among the shops and local gathering spots in several downtown areas. In Key West, head to Duval Street for the best shopping and live music. You’ll also be near the Key West Aquarium for the perfect family-friendly afternoon outing. Mallory Square is also host to some of the area’s best artisans. Tour Earnest Hemingway’s Home and Museum or the Harry S. Truman Little White House if you’re more interested in exploring historic locations.

Enjoy the Beaches

One of the best reasons to visit the Florida Keys is to enjoy beach life. Head to Bahia Honda State Park for family-friendly nature trails and lovely sandy beaches. Sombrero Beach in Marathon is popular for family picnics and water sports.

Best Dining Spots

Don’t forget to plan and make reservations at some of the best breweries and restaurants in the Florida Keys.

Blue Heaven’s laid-back island vibes are almost as famous as its Key lime pie. Enjoy the art installations, tropical surroundings, and delicious weekend brunch at this popular Key West spot. The Fish House in Key Largo makes a perfect stop on your road trip coming or going to the mainland; daily specials mean it’s even worth a visit more than once.

If you need a break from seafood, head to M.E.A.T. Eatery and Taproom for award-winning burgers and 12 craft beers on tap. Lorelai Restaurant and Cabana Bar is the perfect place to enjoy nightly sunset entertainment and a delicious array of shareable appetizers.

A visit to the Florida Keys is sure to be full of memorable adventures no matter where you stay, eat, or play.

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27 Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys, From Wildlife Encounters to Key Lime Pie Tastings

Adventure awaits in this tropical island paradise.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

There are few vacation destinations in the United States more tropical and laid-back than the Florida Keys . This sunny, palm tree-dotted paradise extends 120 miles off the southeast coast of Florida and is a treasured spot for snorkeling, diving, boating, fishing, and experiencing the Sunshine State’s most barefoot and breezy vibes. It’s also the site of some of my most treasured childhood memories — and my destination of choice as an adult in need of regular breaks from reality.

Keep in mind that when people talk about going to the Keys, they can mean any number of places: Key Largo, which is the northernmost key, or Key West, which is more than two hours away, or Tavernier, Islamorada, Marathon, or any other key in between. Key West is perhaps the most popular among tourists, with its own airport and plenty of attractions, whereas Key Largo is closest for those driving from Miami .

Ready to explore one of Florida's top destinations ? Here are 27 of the best things to do in the Florida Keys.

Related: How to Take the Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip

Eat at The Fish House.

You can’t go to the Florida Keys without eating your fill of fresh fish. Even if you're not a seafood lover, you will get a new lease on life after one bite of the mahi Matecumbe at The Fish House , one of the last spots that still buys from local commercial fishermen and filets all fish right on the premises.

Feed the tarpon at Robbie’s of Islamorada.

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If you’ve ever wanted to come face to face with a fish twice your size, pay $2.50 to hand feed the tarpon at Robbie’s of Islamorada . It’s one of those thrilling, only-in-Florida activities sure to liven up your scrapbook. If you just want to eat lunch at the restaurant here, that's fine, too — you'll get a heaping side of entertainment.

Eat Key lime pie.

What apple pie is to America, Key lime pie is to the Florida Keys, so don’t leave without treating yourself to a slice. My favorite is the ice-cold, graham-cracker-crusted, whipped-cream-topped rendition at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen , which has two locations in Key Largo. Belgian chocolate-coated, frozen Key lime pie on a stick is also delectable, and you can find it at Kermit’s and Mattheessen’s in Key West.

Eat a sloppy joe at Sloppy Joe’s.

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Since 1933 — when it conveniently opened on the exact day Prohibition was repealed — Sloppy Joe’s has been a Key West institution. Chow down on the combo of ground beef, onions, peppers, and spices known as The Original Sloppy Joe Sandwich while you enjoy live music, dancing, and people-watching.

Learn about local history.

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The Keys played an important role in American history, and you can get a glimpse of that history at places like Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park , a National Historic Landmark where you can take a narrated tour and see Civil War cannons, and the Truman Little White House , Florida’s only presidential museum, where you can tour what served as the winter White House of Harry Truman from 1946 to 1952. The VIP White Glove Tour at the latter museum even includes a ride in one of President Truman’s classic limousines.

Attend a festival or two.

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Floridians like to party, as evidenced by the state’s abundance of festivals all year long (among other things). Head to Key West for Key Lime Festival , Mango Fest , or its most famous event, Fantasy Fest , an annual 10-day street party with every flavor of revelry.

Go deep-sea fishing.

Ever wanted to reel in a massive tuna or hook a feisty sailfish? Or maybe you dream of catching your own snapper, grouper, or wahoo? The Keys is a great place to live out your deep-sea fishing dreams, as the ocean’s full of fish and there are many charters available for both half-day and full-day fishing excursions.

Go snorkeling.

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If you leave the Keys without sinking below the surface of its aqua-blue waters, you haven’t really been to the Keys. There are tons of great snorkeling spots around the islands, whether you swim offshore from a beach or book a chartered trip to take you out to any of the hundreds of gorgeous, fish-filled coral reefs or shipwrecks.

Go scuba diving.

If there’s anything better than snorkeling in the Keys, it’s scuba diving in the Keys. In fact, Key Largo considers itself the “Dive Capital of the World” thanks to its plethora of easily accessible dive sites, including colorful coral reefs and historic shipwrecks. You will also find the third-largest living barrier reef in the world here. Book a half- or full-day dive charter to see what all the fuss is about. Not certified? You can book a one-day introductory course or even get open-water certified in three days at Rainbow Reef Dive Center in Key Largo.

Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park.

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You’ve never been to a national park like Dry Tortugas National Park , 70 miles from the mainland and 99 percent underwater. Its isolated and hard-to-reach location (you can only get here by seaplane or boat) is part of the appeal, as are its incredible blue waters and historic fort.

Go camping.

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Camping is a good way to save money in the Keys, and it’s a fun way to experience another side of this breezy paradise. Bahia Honda State Park is one of the best places to camp in Florida and has both primitive campsites and RV sites with water and electrical hookups.

Find No Name Pub.

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No Name Pub , with its offbeat nature and unexpected location, is indeed “a nice place if you can find it,” as its motto promises. With nearly 100 years of history to its name, this Big Pine Key staple remains little-known and tricky to find. As you search, keep your eyes peeled for the super-cute, super-small endemic Key deer.

Drink Cuban coffee.

With only 90 miles separating Key West from Cuba, it’s no wonder the Keys have some of the best Cuban coffee. Check out Morita’s Cuban Cafe in Cudjoe Key or the famous Cuban Coffee Queen in Key West. Pro tip: Cuban Coffee Queen’s tiny Margaret Street outpost is adorned with the famous “Greetings from Key West” mural, if you're looking for iconic photo opportunities.

Take a photo at the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.

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Cuban coffee in hand, hop on down to the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A. , an anchored concrete buoy that marks the lowest latitude of the contiguous North American states. There’s always a line, but no one will believe you went to Key West without a photo in front of this landmark (and Mile Marker Zero on Whitehead Street).

Pet cats at The Hemingway Home and Museum.

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The Florida Keys has some of the zaniest history in America, and it’s on full display at The Hemingway Home and Museum, the residence of the great American writer Ernest Hemingway in the 1930s. While the studio, garden, and home itself are interesting, the colony of six-toed cats who live in and around the house — mostly descendants of Snow White, a cat gifted to Hemingway by a ship captain — is the main attraction.

Try local brews at Islamorada Beer Company.

Courtesy of Islamorada Beer Company

If you’re a fan of cold beer, kick back at Islamorada Beer Company , the only brewery and distillery in the Keys. You’ll find more than 60 brews, plus swag, cocktail tastings, and a pet-friendly beer garden at this craft beer haven. The Key lime coconut ale is especially refreshing.

Watch the sunset.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With a narrow strip of land separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Florida Bay down the entire length of the Keys, you can expect killer sunsets from just about anywhere, but Sunset Grille & Raw Bar in Marathon, which overlooks the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, has made a name for itself as one of the best sunset-watching spots in the Keys.

Order conch fritters.

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Floribbean fare is exemplified in the humble conch fritter, a Bahamian specialty of fried sea snail that most folks agree is downright delicious. Outside the Bahamas, there’s no better place to eat conch fritters than the Conch Republic, which is the name that the “micronation” of Key West gave itself when it jokingly seceded in 1982.

Live the high life at Little Palm Island.

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Luxury island living is epitomized on Little Palm Island , the only private island resort in America — otherwise known as heaven on earth. With a restaurant, spa, pool, and plenty of activities to keep you busy (or not), it is four acres of island bliss with fifteen thatched-roof bungalows. They each have a copper soaking tub and ocean views, of course.

Run, bike, or roller blade the Old Seven Mile Bridge.

After a multi-year restoration, a pedestrian-only stretch of bridge parallel to the modern-day Seven Mile Bridge and the Florida Keys Overseas Highway reopened for people to walk, bike, or roll 65 feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

Snorkel to see Jesus.

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No snorkel spot in the Keys is better than John Pennekamp State Park , home not only to some of the best reefs in the Keys but also the underwater Christ of the Abyss , a statue of Jesus by Italian sculptor Guido Galletti that’s submerged 25 feet beneath the sea.

Swim with dolphins.

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While I’m usually not a proponent of captive animal interactions, the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key is one of the places doing it right. This “dolphinarium” is a nonprofit research and education facility with 90,000 square feet of saltwater lagoons housing bottlenose dolphins and a few California sea lions. The center has been rescuing, rehabilitating, and studying whales, dolphins, and manatees since 1984.

Stay at the only underwater hotel in the United States.

The Keys is full of unique places to stay, but Jules Undersea Lodge at Key Largo Undersea Park is in a class of its own. Located 30 feet underwater on the ocean floor, this one-of-a-kind overnight stay requires a scuba dive to reach and includes a dinnertime pizza delivery.

Adopt a reptilian friend at the Turtle Hospital.

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The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, a fully functioning veterinary hospital for sick and injured sea turtles, is the largest of its kind in the country. The public can take guided tours, browse the gift shop, and even “adopt” a patient to support its rehabilitation and (hopeful) eventual release.

Climb a lighthouse.

With six historic lighthouses in the Florida Keys, including Key West Lighthouse , sinking below the surface of the sea isn’t the only change in perspective worth experiencing in the Keys. Don't get actual lighthouses confused with Alligator Reef Lighthouse, though — that's actually a favorite snorkeling spot.

Experience old Florida at the Caribbean Club.

Courtesy of Caribbean Club

Dating back to 1938, the Caribbean Club is the oldest bar in the Upper Keys. While its live music, sunsets, and Key lime pie rum punch are memorable, it was the 1947 filming of Humphrey Bogart movie "Key Largo" that cemented this spot's legendary status. It was a set piece again recently, too, for the Netflix original series Bloodline .

Wander among butterflies at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory.

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At the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory , visitors experience tropical magic as they walk among hundreds of flying butterflies and exotic birds — there's even a couple flamingos. Around 50 to 60 different species of butterflies from around the world call this glass-domed habitat home.

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12 places you should visit in the florida keys.

Coral Restoration Ecotourism in the Florida Keys

By Dalia Colón

A road trip through the Florida Keys is its own reward: a 113-mile journey across islands with some of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous scenery you’ll ever lay eyes on. But amidst the topaz waters, diving pelicans and lush mangroves are a treasure trove of attractions that are educational, historical or just plain fun.

Here are a dozen of the best things to do in the Florida Keys, from top to bottom.

Two words: Underwater park. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the country… and the first place you should go when you arrive in the Florida Keys. There are endless ways to explore this aquatic attraction, including kayaking through the mangroves, snorkeling or scuba diving and setting out on a glass-bottom boat tour.

The African Queen Canal Cruise is another fun way to explore Key Largo. Hop aboard the famed vessel—yes, it’s the one made famous by the 1951 movie starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn—and embark on a 90-minute sightseeing cruise departing from Marina del Mar. Dinner cruises are also available. 

Theater of the Sea combines the pizzazz of a marine park with the charm of a family-owned attraction.

Theater of the Sea combines the pizzazz of a marine park with the charm of a family-owned attraction. Watch a sea lion show, hold a parrot and enjoy a bottomless boat ride. The park’s animal interaction programs—including swimming with dolphins—are sure to make a splash. (See what we did there?)

Although your vacation may last only a few days or weeks, the history of the Keys dates back thousands of years. Get up to speed with a visit to the Keys History and Discovery Center , located on the grounds of the Islander Resort. In addition to rotating exhibits, the museum’s permanent collection of photos and memorabilia highlights the area’s Native American life, shipwrecks and more with photos, models and artifacts.

Love dolphins? Do a deep dive into the life of the aquatic mammals at the Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key, near Marathon. Watch the dolphin and sea lion shows, chat with trainers and cool off at the sprayground. For next-level fun, enroll your tween or teen in Dolphin Camp, or splurge on a Fantasy Dolphin Day to live out all your swimming-with-dolphins dreams.

BIG PINE KEY

Secluded Bahia Honda State Park , located on Big Pine Key, is home to more than 150 species of rare flora and fauna. But its three unspoiled beaches aren’t only for the birds; they’re also a great place for shelling, geocaching, snorkeling and other low-key activities. The park is also sought after for camping, with accommodations ranging from primitive camp sites to glamping cabins.

There’s no shortage of animal encounters in the Keys. But for one of the most peculiar, you’ll have to visit the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key. The endangered creatures stand no more than 32 inches tall and are found only in the lower Florida Keys, so hike, bike or kayak through the preserve and keep your eyes peeled for these beautiful creatures.

Pay your respects to one of Key West’s most legendary residents with a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum . As you stroll through the gardens and pet the six-toed cats—descendants of the writer’s own pets—imagine the Nobel Prize winner working on manuscripts when he lived in the house during the most prolific decade of his career, the 1930s. In the bookstore and gift shop, take home a souvenir to serve as your own muse.

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is located on Duval Street, but it’s about as far away from the famous thoroughfare’s excesses as you can get. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or you just need someplace to catch your breath, a few hours inside this glass-enclosed conservatory surrounded by butterflies and birds should do the trick.

When the sun goes down, the fun heats up at Mallory Square , home of Key West’s nightly sunset celebration. Jugglers, tightrope walkers, sword swallowers, buskers and other colorful characters put on a family-friendly show for your entertainment—and hopefully, for your generous tips.

Sure, it’s touristy. But no visit to Key West would be complete without a photo op at the Southernmost Point . The oversized buoy landmark represents the lowest spot on the map of the Continental United States.

DRY TORTUGAS

Just when you thought the Keys were as remote as you could get, there’s Dry Tortugas National Park . This conglomerate of islands 70 miles west of Key West is accessible only by boat or seaplane. But not to worry; even if you don’t have your own transportation, you can ride the Yankee Freedom ferry from Key West to Garden Key and still explore the park’s historic Fort Jefferson; snorkel, dive or swim in the clear waters; enjoy breathtaking birdwatching; and pitch your tent under the stars.

For more fun things to do in the Florida Keys, check out fla-keys.com .

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15 Informative Tips for Planning a Florida Keys Trip You NEED to Know

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A Florida Keys trip is the ultimate holiday for outdoor lovers, adventure seekers and road trip enthusiasts. Having just returned from our own road trip from Key Largo to Key West, we have compiled the best tips to help you plan and organize your trip from what to see and how to budget for all the things you may want to do. A Florida Keys road trip sets the background for an amazing vacation, well worth adding to your travel bucket list.  Read on as we share our lessons learned to help you make the most of your visit. 

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What (& Where) are the Florida Keys?

A few of the main islands that you will have probably heard before include Key West, Marathon, and Key Largo.

How to Visit the Florida Keys

You may be wondering how exactly you can visit the Florida Keys if they are a collection of islands. The coolest thing about this area is that it is possible to drive from the top of the Keys all the way to the bottom via the Florida Keys Overseas HIghway which covers around 113 miles from mainland Florida to Key West. Thus, one of the best way to visit is to plan a Miami to Key West road trip that takes in all the best spots on your Florida Keys trip. 

Driving the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West will give you the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. Along your journey you will cross 42 bridges connecting some of the most interesting islands in the United States, encompassing mangrove forests and even areas with pine trees. 

Getting to the Florida Keys

The best way to get to the Florida Keys is typically to fly either to Key West International Airport or to Miami International Airport. For most visitors, the best flight options will arrive to MIA which is the perfect base to begin your trip. If you are planning a Florida Keys road trip, you will also need to rent a car. I would recommend getting a smaller car as there are small parking lot areas, your boutique hotel might have limited parking areas and parking is tough in places like Key West. 

How Many Days in the Keys?

Planning your Florida Keys trip is never easy when it comes to deciding how many days you should stay in the Keys. If you want to move quickly, you could do it in as little as 3 days, but you would be missing out on a ton. Ideally, I would suggest at least 7 days but you could easily fill your days up to 10-12 days. 

When to Plan a Florida Keys Trip?

High season for Florida is typically in the winter months as it has the best temperatures and weather, however many families (like ours) visit in the summer which also is technically hurricane season. For the most part though, hurricanes typically really begin in mid August to the end of October. We visited in mid June and the weather was hot and humid with scattered storms most days. One of the best things about visiting the Keys even during hurricane season is you know you will have a few days warning, so you can usually adjust accordingly. That said, make sure to have travel insurance if you are traveling at this time to be prepared for cancellations.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Top 15 Tips for Planning a Florida Keys Trip

If you are planning a Florida Keys trip there are a few things that you should know before you go to help your trip go more smoothly. Below are our top tips that you should keep in mind during the planning phases of your trip. Rest assured by being prepared you will have a good time and know all the best ways to experience the Keys. 

Plan to Stay in Multiple Destinations

Even though the entire drive of the Florida Keys from Miami is only about 165 miles, it is highly recommended to stay in a few different places along the Keys to fully experience it all and to avoid driving back and forth every day on the 1 lane road. We recommend staying in Key Largo and Key West for sure. If you have more time on your trip, you could also stay between the two in Islamorada. The main islands that visitors tend to stay at include Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon and Key West. Additionally, if you plan to spend any time at the national parks, you could also spend a night in Homestead outside of Miami. During our visit we stayed in Homestead, Key Largo and Key West which was perfect for the amount of time we had. If we had a few more days, I would have loved a stay in or around Marathon.

The Keys are Expensive

The Florida Keys are not a cheap holiday destination no matter how you cut it, but it is SO worth the expense in the end. From the endless amount of water activities and tours, to accomodation and eating out all of your meals it can really add up. There are ways you can save money if you plan far in advance and really budget and plan out the things that are most important for your visit.

Camping is an option all along the keys in the various state parks. These book out WELL in advance though so you must be prepared, but that is one of the best ways to really cut your costs on a trip to this area. Also cooking some meals at your hotel can help reduce costs, or looking for hotels that provide free breakfast. We had a full kitchen at our cottage in Key Largo which was amazing.

Tipping is Expected

One of the most important things to know when planning your Florida Keys trip is that tipping is the expected norm here in everything you do. When you start adding it up each day it becomes a lot, so it is important to really budget in this extra cost for all of your guided tours, water sport adventures and of course hotels and restaurants. Even buying a cup of coffee these days comes with an extra 18% or ore tip! This is a good thing to plan into your budget in advance. If you are taking a boat tour, the sea plane over to Dry Tortugas, a snorkel adventure, a taxi, etc you will be expected to provide a tip.

It is Hot & Humid

Bring Reusable Water Bottles

There isn’t a huge push in Florida to reduce plastic usage as they still provide plastic bags at shops and plastic water bottles are all over, but to help reduce plastics finding their way into the ocean, we highly recommend bringing your own reusable water bottles . And since it is so hot for much of the year, I would highly recommend you take something like a hydro flask that will keep your water cold all day! We would fill up our bottles with ice in the morning, add a little water and then could refill it as the day went on. And it makes the perfect souvenir collector to add your stickers to.

Beaches are Few & Far Between

Budget for Adrenaline Activities

Somehow we managed to snorkel every day of our visit to the Keys which was amazing, but it also wasn’t always cheap. Plan out the main water activities you would like to do during your visit and see if you can hit them all in one go. We really loved our day out with Fury Key West on their Ultimate Adventure H2.0. It included a quick banana boat ride, jet skiing, parasailing (see the video below for our experience!), a water playground and snorkeling in an all day boat trip. For $169, which also included breakfast and lunch this was a steal! It allowed us to try a lot of activities all in one day.  There are also great options for snorkeling right off the beach or piers in many places.

Try to Get in the Water Daily

On this note, make sure to spend some time under the water to see so much more of what is happening in the Keys! the diving and snorkeling here are really great as this is the world’s 3rd largest reef! The tropical fish and marine life are so beautiful and so abundant. We snorkeled every day and every dip under the water was a new adventure with something new and cool to see. It wasn’t always crystal clear water, but the visibility was pretty good most of the time. The Keys have everything from snorkeling off an electric boat to SNUBA for first timers. 

Bring ONLY Reef Safe Sunscreen

One of the most important factors to know when planning a trip to the Florida Keys is to bring only reef safe sunscreen with you if you plan to be in the water at all. As organizations are working hard to reduce the pollution in the waters, one of the easiest ways to help keep the coral reef alive and help restoration efforts is to make sure you are only using reef safe sunscreen. We love this brand , but you can also use this brand , which is easily available at most stores. To help reduce the amount of sunscreen we need to put on, we also always recommend wearing long sleeve swim shirts while on the water or in the water. 

Don’t Skimp on the Bug Repellent

The mosquitos are horrendous in some places and at certain times of year. During our June visit we were eaten alive at Biscayne National Park and the Everglades. For much of our visit in the Lower Keys and Middle Keys the mosquitos were minimal and were kept at bay with a quick spray. That said, if you are anything like us, make sure to come prepared. I typically spray our clothes with permethrin before going to a buggy place and get these bracelets for my son as he is a bug magnet. This time I forgot, so we had to purchase bug spray locally. Make sure to get sweat resistant as well as you will be sweaty most likely!

Pack Your Snorkel Gear

If you want to have the most flexibility in when and where you snorkel, consider bringing your own gear. It was great to have our own snorkel mask so that when an opportunity arose to snorkel we were prepared. While most tours do provide the gear, it is nice to know yours works well. In this realm, we also highly recommend bringing your own towels as none of the tours have them and you will need them all the time. We have several that we always bring on trips. Mine is this one which is large, doesn’t collect sand and dries overnight easily. My son has a quick dry towel, but also uses his Nomadix poncho as a towel and cover up. Lastly, we would recommend having a mesh lightweight tote to keep all your gear in to easily take from one place to another. 

Eat All the Key Lime

Yes, Key Lime Pie is really a big deal here and you will have the opportunity to try it at almost every restaurant. But what you really need to do is read up on it before you arrive so you can have a basic idea of what you are looking for in your pie slices. Some of the best places for key lime pie are in your regular restaurants, so you don’t have to always go out of your way to find some delicious treats. 

Eating Out is Expensive

Meals are expensive in the Florida Keys. Coming from Los Angeles, I wasn’t expecting to see prices as high as at home or even higher for what often felt like a mom and pop restaurant. While the food was always pretty amazing, it definitely wasn’t expected. If we got an appetizer and two main dishes with only water our meals were coming out to minimum $60. As such we tried to find more local places, chose appetizer sized plates more often and didn’t always eat fresh fish even though that is the best thing to eat here. That said, you will eat at some of the best restaurants without having to dress up or make reservations, so do make sure to pop into a few places! Our absolute favorite was The Fish House in Key Largo. 

Utilize the Florida Keys Website for Planning One of the best resources to plan your trip (besides us!) is the Florida Keys Visitor Website . Here you will find more information on where to eat, stay and things to do.

Take Time to Learn While Here

While a Florida Keys trip might be all about fun and adventure, there are actually some really great learning opportunities here as well. We highly recommend taking time to learn about the Coral Restoration work that is happening (and that you can volunteer to be part of if you are a diver!). Additionally, the Turtle Hospital is an amazing resource to find out all about the sea turtles that call the Keys home and how this one facility does so much to help them. If you visit, make sure to pick up one of their laminated cards to take out with you in case you see an injured turtle on your water adventures. 

Furthermore, if you are a book lover or history lover make sure to visit Ernest Hemingway’s House and if you have time the Key West Shipwreck Museum is also super cool and a must visit. Another great place to visit is Pigeon Key Island where you can learn about the old seven mile bridge and the workers who lived on this small island. While here you can also hop off the pier for some snorkeling! The Pigeon Key Tram is super cute and a great way to get out here if you don’t want to walk or if you don’t have your own bike to ride out. 

Take Guided Tours

Even though I have mentioned several times how expensive things can be on a Florida keys trip,  I will say that everytime we took a guided tour we were very happy with the money we spent. We learned so much more, saw so much more in the water and really enjoyed the day more by having someone to ask questions to. We loved so many tours we did, but the most educational tour we took was at Biscayne National Park. We did a snorkel and eco paddle tour where we learned about the history of the park, the ecology of the mangroves and saw some cool stuff under the water. 

Plan to Visit a National Park on your Florida Keys Trip

Biscayne National Park is another national park just at the top of the Keys about 20 minutes from Key Largo outside of Homestead. This national park is about 95% underwater. Here you have the option for snorkeling day trips, kayaking through mangrove forests and even sailing out to further islands. 

Lastly, not totally in the Keys, but close enough is Everglades National Park. For a quick visit, head to Royal Palms Visitor Center to see alligators and get a feel of what this park is all about. 

A Florida Keys trip is truly one of the best holiday destinations in the United States. It provides the feel of being out of the country with the Cuban culture, the chill vibes while also providing the ease of in country travel. I highly recommend putting the Florida Keys on your travel wishlist. There is so much to discover there, we are already planning our next visit.

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Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip Planner (Driving to Key West from Miami)

Taking a road trip through the Florida Keys is one of the best adventures you can have in the USA. The 110 mile stretch from Miami to Key West traverses the appropriately named Overseas Highway, crossing 42 bridges while taking you on a wild ride through one of the most picturesque, quirky and fun places in the USA.

While the drive to the Southernmost city in the United States only takes 4 hours to complete, you’d be at a total loss to miss the many stops along the way. Each island offers something different and sets the tone for your arrival into the fabled Key West, 90 miles north of Cuba.

Hold on to your hat, the Florida Keys is open for business and an epic road trip awaits you.

Don’t leave home without:   Lonely Planet Miami & the Keys (Travel Guide)

Epic Miami to Key West Florida Keys Road Trip Guide

Table of Contents

Miami to Key West Road Trip Facts

• Distance from Miami to Key West – the total distance from the Miami International Airport to Key West is 110 miles. The entire stretch of road is a paved highway.
• Miami to Key West drive time – if you were to drive straight through, the drive would take you on average of 4 hours. Something to note is that the Overseas Highway is a slower moving 4 lane highway, 2 northbound lanes, and 2 southbound lanes, with an average speed limit of 40MPH.
• Best time to visit the Florida Keys – the best season in between March and May as the weather is stable and the large crowds from the winter season have begun to disappear. You’ll also enjoy more reasonable prices. July is the hottest month averaging 86°F  ( 30°C ) and January is the coldest month averaging 70°F (21°C) . The most rain falls in September.
• The recommended number of days – our road trip lasted 6 days and we structured it with 2 nights in Key Largo while heading southbound, 2 nights in Key West and 1 night in Marathon while heading northbound. This said I would highly recommend that you extend your trip to a full 7-8 days giving you an extra 1-2 nights in Key West.

Don’t forget:   Miami and the Keys: destination touring map & guide (National Geographic Destination Map) . This will allow you to stop at all of those hidden gems along your drive. 

Rent a Car in Miami

Unless you’ve decided to drive from your hometown, you’ll be flying into the Miami International airport and be in need of a vehicle to start your Florida Keys road trip.

Be sure to make a rental car reservation before flying to Miami as all classes of rentals are in high demand and the chances of there being an affordable option available on arrival are slim.

The roads from Miami to Key West are paved and easily traveled, so it really comes down to preference for the type of vehicle you choose to rent.

We went with a mid-sized car for comfort and fuel economy but that’s not to say it wouldn’t be fun to rent a jeep or convertible for the drive.

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Car Insurance for Your Road Trip

Rental cars come with the minimum levels of liability insurance required by the state that is provided by the rental company.

While it meets the requirements, it is not enough coverage to have peace of mind or cover you in the case of a serious accident.

You have the option of purchasing an extended policy when you pick up your rental but also remember that a good travel insurance plan will also provide you with great car rental insurance.

Florida Keys Road Trip Highlights Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP:  Above you’ll find a map of our highlights on the Miami to Key West drive in the Florida Keys. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places we mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version.

Can’t Miss Stops from Miami to Key West

Skip ahead to:, key largo – florida keys.

The closest Key to mainland Florida, Key Largo is an absolute gem with some amazing natural landscape to enjoy making it a fantastic first stop when heading form Miami to Key West on a road trip.

While it’s no Key West, this island is an absolute paradise bursting with local character and relaxing Caribbean vibes.

Not to mention, Key Largo is an icon having debuted in literature written by Ernest Hemmingway and a famous song by the Beach Boys.

Key Largo is a great place to explore the water. You will find several companies offering snorkel or diving adventures.

If snorkeling or diving is not your thing, you could instead book a Kayak or Paddleboard Eco Tour allowing you to explore the beautiful mangroves of Key Largo.

Traveling 68 miles from Miami it takes around 1 ½ hours to reach Key Largo, which is the perfect amount of driving for the first day.

This gives you time to arrive, find your hotel and get settled before heading off to dinner for a spectacular sunset on one of the islands many piers.

Plan the ultimate Key Largo Itinerary

Places to Visit in Key Largo

John pennekamp state park.

The majority of our time on Key Largo was spent exploring this stunning natural area.

We started our day with a boat trip out to the only living coral reef in the United States, where we spent 2 hours snorkeling in the waves. Book your snorkeling adventure today in John Pennekamp State Park.

Despite us having the privilege to snorkel and dive on some of the best reefs in the world, we found the reef here healthy and beautiful.

What stood out the most was the large populations of colorful fish, so it’s definitely worth the effort.

Back on land, we spent a couple of hours walking the trails in the park. The trails are well-groomed and easy to follow offering fantastic views of the ocean and thriving mangrove forests along the shore.

Entrance into the John Pennekamp State Park costs $8USD per vehicle (2-8 persons) and the park hours are 8 AM until sunset.

Snorkeling tours cost $29.95 for a 2.5-hour trip and run at fixed times 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 12 PM, 1:30 PM, 3 PM and 4:30 PM daily.

Getting Here:  the State Park entrance is located at Mile Marker 102.5 on the Oceanside of the highway.

Places to eat in Key Largo

• SUNDOWNERS : This is the place to be for sunset as they have a prime location on the water. Not to mention the flowing plates of seafood and tropical cocktails on offer. Even if you just come for drinks and appetizers, we enjoyed live music and a truly spectacular sunset. Hot tip: Be sure to make a reservation if you want to dine during sunrise.
• THE FISH HOUSE : Just as the name suggests, this is the place to go if you like fresh fish. The perfect place to grab lunch, this restaurant specializes in fresh local seafood including snapper, mahi-mahi, grouper, Florida lobster and stone crab.
• MRS MAC’S KITCHEN : Fun and quirky, this is the place to meet locals while enjoying the perfect mesh of southern fare and island seafood. If the food isn’t enough to attract a visit, maybe the hundreds of license plates that decorate the interior of this eatery will draw you in for a look.

Places to stay in Key Largo

Kona Kai Resort – two words for this charming boutique property, simply paradise. Tucked away off the busy highway, this resort is an oasis of smartly decorated rooms, white sand, swaying palms, and salty ocean breeze.

Each room features a small apartment complete with a bedroom, sitting area, and kitchen. They offered continental breakfast and a variety of complimentary non-motorized water activities from their private dock.

We found the Kona Kai extremely comfortable and would recommend any length of stay while in Key Largo.

Islamorada – Florida Keys

What we loved about Islamorada was the complete change in vibe from Key Largo. They are so close together, yet offer such a different experience and feel. Islamorada has a less commercial feel to it and was a place we felt that we could connect with the local people of the Florida Keys.

Not to mention that the road leading both onto and off of the island offers a spectacular display of bright turquoise water with access from small pull-offs where white sand rolls gently into the water.

Spend some time here enjoying the water activities available. Islamorada offers a wide range of options, from guided fishing tours to local island brewery tours .

We used Key Largo as a base for exploring Islamorada, as the islands are very close together. This is a great option if you have a limited amount of time but still want to experience both islands.

It’s also nice to check into a place for 2 nights instead of 1, so we would recommend this approach.

Don’t miss a thing: Islamorada Itinerary

Places to Visit in Islamorada

History of diving museum.

Featuring one of the world’s largest collections of international diving helmets and artifacts, this museum is a must-stop for anyone who scuba dives, is fascinated with history or dreams of underwater exploration.

We were absolutely enamored by the layout of this museum, taking us through the entire evolution of diving from open bottom helmets to today’s popular SCUBA and everything in between.

I especially loved the display featuring the history of underwater photography and the chance to see the evolution of cameras, hard to believe how far we’ve come from Ikelite housings the size of briefcases to a GoPro.

Entrance into the History of Diving Museum costs $12USD for adults, $6USD for children 6-11 and free for children under 5. The museum hours are 10 AM to 5 PM every day of the week.

FLORIDA KEYS BREWING

Located in the heart of the Morada Way’s Arts and Cultural District we enjoyed an afternoon in the tasting room of this locally-owned brewery.

Owner Craig McBay, with his wife Cheryl, opened the doors to the Florida Keys Brewing Company in March 2015 as the first brewery to take up residence in the Florida Keys. We loved the sense of island life that they bring to their brews, featuring Key limes, citrus, hibiscus, and honey.

The Tasting House is open every day of the week from Noon to 10 PM.

ROBBIE’S

This place is an institution and no road trip from Miami to Key West would be complete without a stop to feed the Tarpon from Robbie’s pier.

Even if you can’t bring yourself to dangle your arm over the dock edge for the thrill of an up to 100-pound monster fish jumping up to retrieve the fish in your fingers, it is worth paying the $2.00 admission to watch the spectacle in person.

When you’ve had enough of the thrill, you’ll find that Robbie’s also offers a full market of locally made crafts to shop and quirky food stands to check out.

With public restrooms available, this is a great place to pull over and stretch your legs on your drive from Miami to Key West.

Admission to the Tarpon dock at Robbie’s cost $2.00 per person. Buckets of fish can be purchased for $3.00 each. Hours for visiting are 7 AM to 8 PM.

Places to eat in Islamorada

Sticking to the theme of a classic Florida Keys sunset, the Marker 88 is located on a pier facing the Gulf, complete with a white sand beach, music, and Caribbean vibe, it is THE place to watch the sunset in Islamorada.

Featuring Florida Keys inspired flavors infused into freshly caught seafood, it’s a delectable place to sip on a Hemmingway and watch the sun disappear on the horizon.

Places to stay in Islamorada

Cheeca Lodge : featuring 214 spacious rooms on 27 acres of lush garden, all lined with turquoise water and towering palms, this lodge is an oasis in paradise. The property also features a 525-foot pier, touting it as the longest in the Keys, which is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset or cast a reel. This Islamorada luxury resort offers snorkeling, sea kayaking, bicycling, scuba diving, and 3 first-class restaurants.

Casa Morada : this privately owned hotel offers 16 upscale suites giving an atmosphere that is private, peaceful and serene.  The highlight of the resort is Casa Morada’s spectacular private island which is accessed by a dramatic footbridge and features a freshwater pool, secluded cabana and the Sunset Gazebo bar with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Marathon – Florida Keys

Our stop in Marathon was a short one, as we used the island for a transit stop to break up the trip back to Miami from Key West.

We ended up leaving Key West in the early afternoon, around 2 PM and began driving north.

We stopped at the Bahia Honda State Park and then cruised into Marathon by 5 PM. This gave us enough time to settle into our room and head down to the water for one of the best sunsets we had during our road trip.

If you have the time, there is a great helicopter tour that leaves from Marathon. You get to fly over the city of Marathon, then along the entire length of the Seven Mile Bridge to the small island of Money Key.

Enjoy looking down into the clear blue water, full of marine life and colorful reefs.

Places to Visit in Marathon

Bahia honda state park.

Located before you arrive at Marathon when heading northbound on the Overseas Highway, this park is stunning and to think we almost drove right by without stopping makes us cringe.

What the park lacks in green vegetation it makes up for in endless expanses of white sand beaches. It also gives you access to hiking up on to one of the original bridges that were constructed from Miami to Key West.

Bahia Honda State Park did experience some damage when Hurricane Irma came through at the end of 2017 but rehabilitation efforts are in place and most of the park is still accessible.

Definitely make some time to pull into this state park, bring some drinks, snacks and plan some time just relaxing.

Entrance into the park is $8USD per vehicle (2-8 persons) and the hours are 8 AM to sunset every day of the year.

Places to eat in Marathon

BUTTERFLY CAFE

Located inside the Tranquility Bay Resort, this café offers an intimate and cozy setting with a wide array of food options.

Meshing together Italian fare with fresh seafood, it’s a great place to sit outside and enjoy the ocean air among tiki torches. Check out the menu here .

Places to stay in Marathon

Tranquility Bay Resort : This property is the kind of place you can check into for a week-long vacation and never leave from.

It’s huge, offering all the amenities you could imagine, multiple pools, a private white sand beach, towering palm trees, golf course and more.

The accommodation features spacious townhouse-style rooms laid out as 2 level apartments with a living area, full kitchen, upper and lower decks, multiple bedrooms and en-suite laundry. It’s a true home away from home.

Big Pine Key – Florida Keys

This part of the Florida Keys holds the essence of the island chain, an opportunity to step away from the commercialism and explore the wild side of Florida.

With most of the land being a protected preserve, it’s the perfect place to head into the uninhabited backcountry with a kayak and get up close with the nature that makes Florida such an American icon.

Of all the islands on our trip, Big Pine Key was the only one that showed any lasting damage from Hurricane Irma.

Unfortunately, this was the hardest-hit area and the storm pulled up a huge amount of mature mangrove forest in its path changing the face of the island.

Despite this, it is still gorgeous and totally worth a stop for a kayaking adventure , at the bare minimum.

Our Stops in Big Pine Key

Big pine kayak.

Bill Keogh has lived in the lower keys for two decades, meaning he knows the area better than anyone could imagine.

His daily kayaking eco-tours offer the opportunity to explore dense mangrove forests, learn about the balance of the local eco-system, see wildlife and all around enjoy a special day on the water.

If you have more time to spend and want to really get into the heart of the backcountry, Big Pine Kayak offers multi-day paddling trips that combine time on the water with camping.

Kayaking day trips on Big Pine Key cost $50USD and operate seven days per week. Bookings are essential to ensure availability, so be sure to plan ahead if you’d like to go on a kayak adventure during your Florida Keys road trip.

Places to eat in Big Pine Key

NO NAME PUB

The first time we read their slogan ‘a nice place if you can find it’ we knew we had to visit. Lucky for us, this little dive pub is located just down the road from Big Pine Kayak and about as local as you can get.

The high of your visit will be walking through the doors to discover the walls coated in hanging currency from around the world. Not one square inch of space has been left uncovered.

You’ll find typical pub food, generous portions, and friendly locals. Our recommendation? Try the Fish Dip.

Key West – Florida Keys

Glorious, iconic and legendary, this island at the end of the road lives up to its reputation.

For as long as I can remember I’ve dreamed about a road trip from Miami to Key West, to not only visit the amazing islands along the route but to arrive in Key West and partake in all the adventure there is on offer.

The dream finally came true this year and Key West didn’t hesitate to meet and exceed my expectations.

From the history to the exciting adventure on offer and everything in between, Key West is a place that every traveler should visit at least once in their lives.

An absolute must is escaping to the secluded islands and tropical beaches off the coast of Key West on this guided, full-day catamaran adventure to historic Dry Tortugas National Park .

History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike will love this unique voyage on a luxurious, state-of-the-art catamaran.

Enjoy snorkeling (equipment provided) in the crystal blue waters and take in the military fort, national park, campground, sandy beaches and coral reefs that make this area special. Another bonus, breakfast, and lunch are included!

If you are looking for a day of more active water activities you have many great options to choose from. Key West offers a plethora of tours from a Sail, Snorkel & Kayak adventure to Shipwreck Snorkel & Wild Dolphin Encounter .

Plan the ultimate Key West Itinerary

Top adventures in Key West

Backcounty helicopter tour.

Hands down the most spectacular way to experience Key West is from above. The standard helicopter adventure takes you over and around the entire island before landing you back at the airport.

However, we would highly recommend a splurge on the Ultimate Experience tour that includes the standard and eco backcountry tours in an amazing 30-minute flight.

Flying away from Key West, over the massive reef that surrounds the island and out over a vast expanse of uninhabited islands was the highlight of our trip.

Not only is it absolutely gorgeous but the amount of marine life you can see from the air will have you second-guessing a swim later.

On the day of our flight, we saw several sharks including a massive Bull Shark that was easily 12 feet in length.

Helicopter tours with Air Adventures , the only helicopter tour operator on the island, leave from the Key West International Airport.

PARASAILING

For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to take a road trip from Miami to Key West and go parasailing .

Call me crazy, but it was a fulfilling moment to be tethered from the back of a speed boat soaring 300 feet up in the air over the bright blue waters of the most southern tip of the USA.

We sailed high above the water with Fury Adventures and loved the fun staff and top-notch equipment. Parasailing trips last 1 hour and depart on the hour from 9 AM to 6 PM daily.

REEF SNORKELING TRIP

One of the things that make Key West appealing is the close access to the only living coral reef in the United States and there is no shortage of available boat tours that will take you there.

We booked a morning snorkel trip with Sebago Watersports and lucked out with perfect weather, meaning we were able to travel out to one of the most beautiful sections of the reef.

Not to mention, since Key West is a notorious party destination, the morning snorkel departure was only half full. This made for an amazing, uncrowded snorkeling trip .

Our hot tip, skip the drinks the night before and book a morning tour to really have an intimate experience with the Florida Keys reef.

SHIPWRECK MUSEUM

Not only is Key West a fantastic place to soak up the tropics but it is also an island that is rich in history.

During the times of pirates and colonization, many ships ran aground on the massive reefs off the shores of Key West. It became known as one of the richest places to plunder and salvage amongst ship crews.

As a result, many ships rest on its shores and the museum takes you through the history of the many shipwrecks fabled pasts. If you like pirate lore or are at all fascinated by the colonial days, this museum is worth a visit.

SMATHERS BEACH

The best beach in Key West is an obligatory visit. As you can imagine, it features stunning stretches of white sand that ease gently into warm Caribbean waters.

Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available on-site, as well as free parking access in a lot across the road from the beach entrance.

The most enjoyable aspect is the boardwalk-style access points that lead you through avenues of palm trees. Many food trucks also frequent the area so you could easily spend a full day here if you had the time.

Are you a beach lover? Check out these other Key West Beaches we love!

SOUTHERNMOST POINT

When you stand at this monument you can look out and know that you are exactly 90 miles from Cuba. You’re also at the Southernmost Point in the continental United States .

It’s a fantastic spot for an obligatory travel photo but keep in mind it’s probably one of the most popular things to do in Key West.

It’s best to arrive either first thing in the morning or in the evening as the lines in the middle of the day can go on for blocks. I am talking hours of wait time to have your chance at the buoy.

SUNSET AT MALLORY SQUARE

Watching the sunset in Key West is an obligatory activity and you haven’t done it right until you’ve attended the sunset celebration at Mallory Square. The iconic celebration takes place daily, starting two hours before sunset.

The square fills with people and vendors selling a variety of Key West nibbles like conch fritters, fresh-made guacamole, and coconut drinks. Not to mention the street performers. It is the perfect way to end the day.

If you are looking for something a little quieter, or maybe you just want to celebrate the sunset on the water, then booking a Champagne Celebration Sunset Cruise is the tour for you.

Enjoy the peaceful calm of a late afternoon sail on a comfortable catamaran limited to just 14 passengers. Enjoy a great selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and a gourmet cheese buffet.

Then watch as the sun glistens and gently settles into the water, a perfect ending to a perfect day.

NIGHT KAYAKING ON IBIS BAY

We’ve never gone for a paddle in illuminated kayaks before, so this was something very unique for us to try in Key West.

The tour departs from the pier in front of the Stoned Crab restaurant next to the Ibis Bay Resort after sunset and spends the better part of 3 hours paddling around the Ibis Bay in search of marine life.

It is an eco-conscious tour and we found the guide to be both funny and informative. He pointed out a wide variety of marine life and we learned a lot about the eco-system of the waters that surround Key West.

The glass bottom kayaks with light illumination provided an interesting element and allowed us to see everything on the ocean floor as we passed by. If you’re looking for something unique and different, definitely give the night kayaking tour a try.

Best Places to eat in Key West

The stoned crab.

Simply put, this place is amazing and our favorite place to dine in Key West. Set on the pier at the Ibis Bay Resort, The Stoned Crab allows you to enjoy the atmosphere of Key West paired with the most amazing options of seafood one could wish for.

All of their seafood is locally sourced and at the end of each meal, you are presented with the cards of the fisherman that made your catch. It’s a unique aspect and an all-around enjoyable experience.

KERMIT’S KEY LIME SHOPPE

While you can certainly order a sandwich here, your primary reason to visit is their famous Key Lime Pie on a stick.

No visit to Key West, or the Florida Keys for that matter, would be complete without a visit to Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe . And it doesn’t stop at the pie, you’ll also find Key Lime salsa, chutney, taffy, jelly beans, tea, olive oil and well, you get the picture.

LUCY’S RETIRED SURFER BAR

What we loved about this restaurant was the location, away from the bars and busy piers on Key West. From the moment we were seated, we were able to relax and enjoy the quiet ambiance around us.

It’s a refreshing place to get away from the hustle of Duval Street and they serve a delicious variety of seafood, creative burgers and tropical island cocktails. Be sure to order a Shark Attack drink.

Places to stay in Key West

The Marker – featuring 96 guest rooms with private balconies, swimming pool, dining options, and onsite valet parking, The Marker blends the traditional architecture of the island with luxury. Notably, it is the only new hotel to be built in Key West in 20 years.

We loved our spacious room and found the location to be perfect for exploring more of the island on foot. The hotel is located roughly a 10-minute walk from Duval Street and it’s easy to hop right onto the boardwalk that follows the edge of the city.

One of America’s Best Road Trips

It’s undeniable that a road trip from Miami to Key West through the Florida Keys is a classic American road trip.

From the moment we arrived in Key Largo until we drove all the way down and back, we found ourselves immersed in unique American culture, stunning scenery and a place like no other in the USA.

Someone once told me, ‘you haven’t lived until you’ve road tripped through the Florida Keys’ and I have to admit, they were right.

Plan your own road trip: How to Plan A Road Trip in 10 Easy Steps

This post was made possible in partnership with  The Florida Keys & Key West . All opinions, recommendations, insane love for the Florida Keys and personal experiences are 100% mine, as always. 

More on Florida:

• Ultimate Florida Packing List
• Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Miami Itinerary
• 13 Fun Things to Do in Panama City Beach
• 15 Fun Things to do in Kissimmee
• Ultimate USA Travel Guide
• 13 Best Cities to Visit in the USA
• 7 Exotic Places to Travel Without a Passport

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

24 thoughts on “Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip Planner (Driving to Key West from Miami)”

Hi Lina My husband and I plus are 2 besties are doing this trip end of May!! Thanks for all your insight and suggestions!! I am really excited now after reading your reviews!!

Thanks, Nancy Moriarty Massachusetts

So much helpful information. Thank you very much for sharing this.

Love your post and pictures! Driving from Miami to the Keys in March. Thanks in advance

You’re welcome! Enjoy the trip, we love the Florida Keys!

Thank you for this wonderful article, I’d like to go ASAP😃!! Is it hurricane season now or could we do this road trip next week? Has covid closed all the places you mention?

Looking forward to hearing back from you, Thank you!!! Thank you Lina

Hi Monique, it is hurricane season but that doesn’t necessarily mean one will affect your visit! Pay attention to the weather forecasts and listen to locals and you will be fine. Enjoy, it’s one of our favorite places in the world! As for COVID, some things will be closed but others open. Expect limitations in sizes, hours and operation though. Also, be sure to wear a mask and physically distance yourself from anyone that is not traveling with you. Respect all posted mandates too. Have fun!

Wow! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this! I live in NJ and this is my dream to fly into Miami and spend the week exploring. I will definitely keep your post for when that day comes. Thanks again!

Our pleasure! Driving Miami to Key West is one of the best road trips in the USA and we wanted to create a guide to help people like yourself maximize their time exploring. We will have a free download of this information available soon so check back!

As a boy in the 1940’s, I spent a good deal of time in and around Miami and even travelled down to Key West a couple of times. This review mentioned the shipwrecks but not the Atocha museum, named after the ?1715 Spanish Treasure Galleon that was discovered with a lot of its treasure still aboard that is now on display in Key West. Robbie’s Tarpon farm on Islamorada is definitely unique and worth the visit, and a flock of semi-tame Pelicans is also on hand to compete with the tarpon for visitor handouts. I once caught a tarpon and a sailfish while deep-sea fishing; unfortunately, tarpons and barracudas and sailfish are exciting to fish for but basically inedible. Snappers and Groupers (big sea bass) and especially Pompanos are the fish to eat. In contrast to Orlando where everything at Disneyworld is artificial (though still fascinating), nearly everything in the Keys is REAL. Some kids (and adults) appreciate this subtle difference. Also in Orlando is Emeril’s Restaurant which defines southern gourmet food for me. Also, Emeril’s offered a red wine called Aalto which was memorably rich and flavorsome.

Great article! I’m wondering if flying into Miami, driving to Key West for 5 days then flying out of Key West is a good option? Thanks!

Glad you found the article helpful! It’s definitely an option to fly into Miami and out of Key West, but I will warn you, WAY more expensive. Nonetheless, worth pricing out.

Thanks! Looking forward to the trip, going in March. Your article helped a lot!

My husband and I are considering doing this Miami to Key West road trip this Feb 2020. Thanks for all of the recommended things to do and places to stay. This is an excellent starting point!

How exciting! It’s an amazing road trip (one of the best in America in my opinion!). So glad we could be a part of it and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you might have. 🙂

Why don’t reviewers put pricing in the review? 99% of travelers decisions are based on actuals dollars. At least these guys don’t have a bunch of ambiguous adjectives like cheap or inexpensive. But seriously why do most reviewers leave off pricing?

The reason that you do not see pricing in editorial is due to the fact that prices of lodging is constantly changing based on season and demand. Putting hotel prices in an article would be as pointless as including exchange rates.

Epic Miami to Key West Road Trip Guide it’s unreal !! Thanks a lot)

Glad you enjoyed it! Was an epic trip for sure. 🙂

WOW! that just looks amazing! I turned down a trip to Miami a few months ago, I suddenly regret that

Well, the Florida Keys and Miami are not created equally!! BUT you can access the Keys from Miami. lol Highly recommend a road trip through the Florida Keys at some point. Cheers!

This is a truly awesome road trip destination which I simply have to add to my bucket list, Lina and David. I would especially love to explore the John Pennekamp State Park as the scenery is breathtaking. How many days should I spend there?

One full day is enough for John Pennekamp State Park! I would recommend at least 7 days for exploring the Florida Keys. Cheers!

And I love the post! How beautifully you have described each and everything, looks like a perfect road trip. love the pictures!

It’s an amazing road trip, truly one of the best in the USA. Thanks for you kind words and hope you find yourself in the Florida Keys someday soon!

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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.

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About the author: lauren mcgill.

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2 replies to this topic

The keys have their own forum where you should post your questions. Here is the link:

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g34340-i52-Florida_Keys_Florida.html

Thanks so much for info. We planning on visiting this May, so will check park websites - probably be way too late to book a spot :- (

Thanks again.

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Watch CBS News

How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: April 4, 2024 / 8:10 AM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early on the morning of March 26  led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city. 

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future. 

The outer loop I-695 closure shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. 

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. 

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.    

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? 

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping. 

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C. 

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA. 

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic. 

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said. 

• Francis Scott Key Bridge
• Bridge Collapse
• Patapsco River

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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