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

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our Disclosure Policy here

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


Miami to Key West Road Trip Facts

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
  • 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

Rental Car in the Florida Keys

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


Sunset in Key Largo, Florida

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

John Pennekamp State Park, Key Largo, Florida

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.

John Pennekamp State Park, Florida

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, Key Largo, Florida
  • 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, 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


Sunset in Islamorada, Florida

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

History of Diving Museum, Islamorada, Florida Keys

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

Miami to Key West Road Trip - 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

Robbie's Tarpon Feeding, Islamorada, Florida

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


Places to eat in Islamorada - Marker 88

MARKER 88

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


Miami to Key West Road Trip - Sunset

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


David Stock on the Overseas Highway, 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

Bahia Honda State Park, Florida Keys

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


Marathon Key Beach

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, Marathon, Florida

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


Miami to Key West Road Trip - Big Pine Key

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

Florida Keys Kayaking - Big Pine Key

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


Places to eat in Big Pine Key Florida Keys - No Name Pub

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


Miami to Key West Road Trip

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

Key West 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

Key West Parasailing - Divergent Travelers

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

Key West - Reef Snorkeling

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

Shipwreck Museum in Key West

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

Smathers Beach, Key West

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

Southernmost Point, Key West

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

Mallory Square Sunset Celebration - Key West - Lina Stock

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

Night Kayaking Key West

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

Places to eat in Key West - David Stock

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

Kermits Key Lime - Lina Stock

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


Miami to Key West Road Trip - The Marker Hotel

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


Mile 0 in Key West, Divergent Travelers

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

Recommended Tours
Miami and the Keys TOURDiscover Florida tourFlorida Tours
Miami and the Keys TourDiscover Florida Tour
Miami and the Keys
6 Days
Self-Guided Tour
From Miami to Miami
Included:
Accommodation &
Rental Car
Hop on Hop off
Miami Tour
Everglades Tour
Key West Train Tour
Miami City Cruise
Self-Drive Sun, Fun & Fantasy
10 Days
Self-Guided Tour
From Miami to Miami
Included:
Accommodation &
Rental Car
Discover Florida
8 Days
Self-Guided Tour
From Miami to Miami
Included:
Accommodation &
Rental Car
Check PriceCheck PriceCheck Price

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:

Did you like this story? Share it!



TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES

Looking to get started on your trip planning process? Let us help!


Travel Gear & Packing: Check out our packing lists and travel gear guide to ensure you're bringing the right items on your trip.

Book Your Flight: Ready to fly? Check out our tips for finding cheap flights.

Find A Car Rental:We use Discover Cars to compare car prices, find deals and book rentals.

Book Your Hotel: Compare prices and book with our recommended hotel search engine. You should also check out our tips for finding cheap accommodation.

Find Vacation Rentals: Search vacation rentals & apartments on VRBO for the best prices and options.

Protect Your Trip:Don’t forget your travel insurance! Protect your investment and yourself. Read Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

If you need more help planning your trip, be sure to check out our Step by Step Trip Planning Guide where we break down our process for getting the trip planning process right every single time.


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



We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. We are also a member of other affiliate programs. For more info please read our disclosure page

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

  1. 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

    Reply
  2. Hi Lina,

    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

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  3. 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!

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  4. 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.

    Reply
  5. 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!

    Reply
  6. 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!

    Reply
    • 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. 🙂

      Reply
  7. 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?

    Reply
    • 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.

      Reply
    • 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!

      Reply
  8. 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?

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

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

    Reply
    • 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!

      Reply

Leave a Comment

Divergent Travelers- Adventure Travel Blog