The Florida Keys. Just the name conjures up images of turquoise water, swaying palm trees, and that undeniable “island time” vibe. And trust me, it lives up to the hype. Key West is the best of the Keys, but the journey there is half the fun. A road trip from Miami to Key West is a sweet one. That’s why my husband and I decided to ditch the plane and embark on a four-day road trip from Miami, soaking up every mile of sunshine and salty air. I am here to share the fun itinerary and best places to stop at on a road trip from Miami to Key West.
Best Time to go on a Miami to Key West Road Trip
The best time to take a road trip from Miami to Key West is shoulder season, between March and May, or September and November. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year-round in the Keys, but the sweet spot lies between March and May. The scorching summer heat hasn’t arrived yet, and hotel rates haven’t skyrocketed to peak season prices. September and October are also pleasant, but be mindful of hurricane season (June to November)
How Long is the Drive from Miami to Key West?
The drive from Miami to Key West is roughly 165 miles, translating to a scenic 4-hour drive (give or take, depending on traffic). But trust me, you won’t want to rush this journey. The Overseas Highway, a ribbon of road snaking its way over turquoise water, is a sight in itself.
Miami to Key West Road Trip
Day 1: Miami to Islamorada
| Mileage | Drive Time |
| 85 | 1.5 Hours |
Places to Stop Between Miami and Islamorada
We left for our road trip from Miami to Key West as early as we could( 6 AM) and hit the road for US-1.
Here are all the fun stops we made on our first day of this road trip from Miami to Key West.
Stop #1: Coffee First, Always
If you have read my other blog posts on road trips, I NEED my coffee before just about anything. So our very first stop was Mr. Bean coffee and it hit just the right spot. Also, we come from California, where a cup of coffee is at least $6, so it was nice getting a cup of coffee for just $4.
Stop #2: Robert is Here Fruit Stand
Robert is Here Fruit Stand is… quirky. It’s fun, stands out and is something you have probably never seen before. About 45 minutes south of Miami, is a legendary roadside fruit stand in Florida City.
Burst into a world of exotic fruits, glistening vegetables, and shelves overflowing with local treats. It is also the most chaotic place I’ve ever been.
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If you are like me and love weird fruit, then this is the place to stop at. I won’t ever forget that place. Oh and there is a zoo with many animals in the back! (Ostriches included)
Stop #3: Key Largo
We stopped at Key Largo for some time, to just see what this key has to offer. It was a perfect pit stop to stretch our legs and explore. Here, we also picked up our 2nd cup of coffee at this cuban coffee shop and picked up lunch as well.
There is a lot to do in Key Largo. We went to the Coral Reef State Park and spent about 3 hours exploring the park and kayaking.
Here are a few ways to spend your time in Key Largo.
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: This underwater wonderland offers snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and kayaking adventures. This place was super cool to check out. We rented a glass-bottom boat, peering down at the kaleidoscope of coral and darting fish, catching a majestic manatee gliding serenely through the water.
- Florida Keys Aquarium: Get up close to local marine life at this interactive aquarium, perfect for families.
- Indian Key Historic State Park: Accessible by boat only, this former railroad hub offers a glimpse into the Keys’ rich history. You can kayak or just take a hike at the park.
Stop # 4: Islamorada
After a satisfying lunch and adventurous activity Key Largo, we continued our journey south to Islamorada. There is honestly so much to see and do in Islamorada, I can write a full blog post about it.
Here is a glimpse of what you can do in Islamorada.
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary: Encompassing nearly 3,800 square miles of coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass beds, this sanctuary is a haven for marine life. Explore it through snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or a boat tour.
- Long Key State Park : This park offers pristine beaches, nature trails, and a campground. Go for a swim, rent a kayak, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the Florida sunshine. We went here on the most perfect day and saw the most beautiful birds that we didn’t know had existed. It is pretty untouched and has picnic tables, hiking trails. It would be great for an evening picnic.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The crystal-clear waters around Islamorada boast vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Explore underwater shipwrecks, encounter colorful fish, and discover the wonders of the Florida Keys reef system.
- Just head to one of many beautiful Islamorada Beaches!
Don’t Miss:
- Feeding the Tarpon at Robbie’s : This iconic landmark offers a unique opportunity to feed massive tarpon fish from a floating dock. It’s a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
- Sunset Cruises: End your day with a breathtaking sunset cruise. Watch the sky explode with color as you sail along the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. Many cruises offer cocktails, snacks, and live music, making it a truly magical experience.
- Visit Morada Way Arts District: Located on Upper Matecumbe Key , this district is a haven for art lovers. Stroll through galleries showcasing local artwork, from paintings and sculptures to photography and jewelry.
Places to Stay in Islamorada
Dinner was the freshest seafood platter I’d ever seen (a recurring theme, you’ll see!) at a waterfront restaurant with stunning sunset views and then we decided that Islamorada was going to be our home for the first night of our road trip from Miami to Key West.
We opted for a charming bed and breakfast (think wicker furniture and seahorse motifs) for a touch of Keys’ nostalgia, nestled amidst swaying palm trees.
Other places you can stay in Islamorada are:
- Campervan Stay: For a truly immersive Keys experience, consider staying at Islamorada Kampground. This oceanfront campground offers full hookups, a swimming pool, and stunning sunsets.
- Hotel Stay: If you prefer a more traditional setting, The Islander Resort boasts beautiful ocean views, comfortable rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Beautiful Hotels In Islamorada
Day 2: Islamorada to Marathon
| Mileage | Time |
| 45 miles | 1 hour |
On day 2 of our Road Trip from Miami to Key West, we headed out to Marathon ,a city just 45 miles south of Islamorada on US-101 aka Overseas Highway.
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Cruise down the Overseas Highway, roll down the windows, and let the turquoise water and tropical breeze wash over you.
The drive is exceptionally scenic and almost hypnotizing because of the never ending blue waters. There are so many places to pull over and stop. There are also many small shops and fruit stands along this section of US-101.
Places to Stop Between Islamorada and Marathon
Stop #1: Coffee First, Always
We went to Midway Cafe and it did not disappoint. Please do yourself a huge favor and don’t go to Starbucks, there are so many great tasting coffee options out there ( and cheaper!)
Stop #2: Dolphin Research Center
Before heading south, consider a detour to the Dolphin Research Center This non-profit facility offers a unique opportunity to learn about dolphins and sea lions through interactive programs and educational presentations.
Stop #3: 7 Mile Bridge
The undisputed highlight of Day 2 is undoubtedly crossing the Seven Mile Bridge and just stopping to take in all the views.
This engineering marvel stretches for over six miles, seamlessly connecting Marathon to Lower Keys.
As we cruised along the bridge, we pulled over to the breathtaking vista point and admired the turquoise water stretching out to the horizon on both sides, small islands dotting the landscape, and a feeling of being suspended between the endless sky and the vast ocean( I will admit it’s kind of terrifying).
Pro Tip: Pull over at a designated overlook halfway across the bridge. This is the perfect spot to capture panoramic photos and truly appreciate the bridge’s grandeur.
Stop # 4: Bahia Honda State Park
After a heartwarming (or educational!) dolphin encounter, continue south on the Overseas Highway for a detour to Bahia Honda State Park.
This island also has pristine white-sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise water, and a laid-back atmosphere. Guys, let me tell you that this beach is a pure canvas of powdery white sand that stretches right before you.
There’s a park entrance fee ($8 per vehicle) to be paid upon arrival. This fee allows access to all the park’s amenities for the day
Activities at Bahia Honda State Park:
- Hit the Beach: Relax on the postcard-perfect beach, soak up the Florida sunshine, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water. The water is pretty shallow and pretty calm, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply sunbathing with a good book. Rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day by the shore. It was not super crowded when we went and there is so much wildlife to see!
- Go Snorkeling: The park’s underwater world teems with colorful fish and marine life. Rent snorkeling gear or bring your own to explore the vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Great Snorkeling Tour Here
- Explore the Trails: Take a leisurely stroll on the nature trails and immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and lush vegetation.
- Stargaze!- Bahia Honda State Park has some of the best stargazing opportunities in the Keys
If you want to stargaze, I would recommend staying overnight at Bahia Honda State Park because you are the only ones who can enjoy stargazing within the park boundaries after sundown. The park closes to the public at sunset.
The park features over 40 campsites nestled amidst lush vegetation, a short walk from the beach. Each campsite offers a picnic table, fire ring, and grill. Restrooms with showers are located nearby.
Camping at Bahia Honda State Park is incredibly popular, especially during peak season (winter months). Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot. You can make reservations online through the Florida State Parks website several months in advance
Pro -Tip- Download a Stargazing App: Apps like Sky Map or Star Walk 2 can help you identify constellations and celestial objects.
***Foodie Finds Alert ***
Lunch at Lazy Days was a hit and this foodie would recommend it. It was a symphony of fresh flavors – succulent fish tacos and a slice of tangy Key Lime pie that practically disappeared in seconds.
Burdines in Marathon is an exceptional burger place and has a great waterfront atmosphere that would be perfect after a day of exploring
Places to Stay in Marathon
If you are not staying at Bahia Honda State Park, stay in Marathon for the night. It is an adorable town and it is super laid back. Stay at:
- Campervan Stay: If you’ve got a campervan, Sun Outdoors Marathon offers a tranquil escape with full hookups, kayak rentals, and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Hotel Stay: If you are feeling like a fancy flamingo, stay at The Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club which provides a luxurious option with stunning marina views, spacious rooms, and on-site water activities.
- AirBnB’s: If you haven’t experienced camping, Marathon offers a variety of hotels and resorts catering to all budgets and preferences. From luxurious oceanfront properties to cozy family-run inns, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 3: Marathon to Key West
| Mileage | Driving Time |
| 70 | 1.5 hours |
We’re finally rolling into Key West, the southernmost point in the continental US. The drive itself is again just spectacular, with turquoise water stretching out on either side of the Overseas Highway.
Places to Stop Between Marathon and Key West
Stop #1: Coffee first, Always…
Head over to Morning Joint on Cudjoe Key, for your first stop on day 3. They have live acoustic music out back in the mornings and the breakfast sandwiches were excellent.
Stop #2: Duval Street
Pastel-colored conch houses lined the streets, a feast for the eyes as soon as we entered Key West. It was so pretty! We checked into our charming boutique hotel, freshened up, and hit the iconic Duval Street, a kaleidoscope of shops, bars, and street performers.
Stop #3: Lunch in Key West
After walking and ( doing some shopping) on Duval Street we grabbed lunch at Blue Heaven in Key West. While the wait was long( about 40 minutes) the food was great.
Stop #4: Mallory Square
After dinner, we followed the throngs towards Mallory Square for the quintessential Key West experience. Street performers juggled flaming batons, artists displayed their wares, and the aroma of freshly baked key lime pie wafted through the air.
Day 4: Exploring Key West
Key West is a walker’s paradise, so we ditched the car and spent the day exploring on foot (or you can rent a cute golf cart for a fun twist!). Here are some must-dos:
Things to Do in Key West
- Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum: Take a step back in time and tour the iconic home of literary giant Ernest Hemingway.
- Truman Waterfront: Stroll along this scenic waterfront promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and historical sites like the Key West Lighthouse. The waterfront offered stunning vistas and a glimpse into Key West’s rich history. We climbed the winding stairs of the Key West Lighthouse, the panoramic views are beautiful
- Fort Zachary Taylor State Park: Immerse yourself in history at this Civil War-era fort, offering stunning water views and opportunities for exploring tunnels and cannons. There’s a more private area to the far right of the beach which is 10 min hike away near the military area fenced off or so
- Sunset Sail: End your Keys adventure with a bang. Set sail on a sunset cruise, sip on a refreshing drink, and witness the sky explode with a kaleidoscope of colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
Just an FYI: Don’t leave Key West without trying a slice of Key Lime Pie, the island’s signature dessert. It’s a tangy, creamy, and utterly delicious way to end your trip.
Best Places to Eat in Key West
When it comes to dinner, Key West offers a smorgasbord of options. Indulge in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, grab Cuban fare at a local cafe, or try a fancy Key West “fusion” cuisine experience.
Here are some highly-rated Key West restaurants with different vibes to consider, based on online reviews and recommendations:
For a Romantic Waterfront Dinner Try:
- Latitudes: Located on Sunset Key, this upscale restaurant offers stunning sunset views and a menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes. Perfect for a special occasion. Reservations are highly recommended.
For a taste of the Lively Duval Street Scene:
- Bagatelle: This popular spot boasts a wraparound balcony perfect for people-watching while you devour delicious American seafood dishes with a Caribbean twist. Great for soaking up the vibrant Duval Street atmosphere.
For Something Casual and Delicious:
- Blue Heaven: A Key West institution, this funky restaurant serves up classic Floridian-Caribbean fare, including their famous Key lime pie. Expect a fun, lively atmosphere and generous portions.
For Something Small and Intimate:
- Little Pearl: Tucked away on a side street, this intimate bistro offers a globally-inspired menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Perfect for a more unique and upscale dining experience.
For a Fresh Catch Fix:
- Off the Hook: This no-frills seafood shack serves up the freshest catches of the day at a reasonable price. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with a laid-back vibe.
Best Places to Stay in Key West
We stayed at a pretty nice and affordable cottage at The Conch House. It had pretty much everything all that we needed without breaking the bank, rentals in key west can be super expensive. Here are some options for you!
Budget-Friendly $
- The Conch House: This historic conch house turned B&B offers a charming and affordable stay in the heart of Old Town. Expect simple but comfortable rooms and a delicious complimentary breakfast. Book Here!
- Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages: This laid-back property boasts a mix of rooms and cottages, some with shared porches for a social atmosphere. The location is convenient, close to Duval Street but on a quieter side street. Book Here!
- Parrot Key Cottages: These colorful cottages offer a homey feel, perfect for families or groups. They’re located slightly outside of the downtown area but close enough to walk or bike to the action. Book Here!
Mid-Range $$
- The Gardens Hotel: This historic hotel features airy, elegant rooms with a courtyard pool and a tropical garden setting. It offers a relaxing oasis close to Duval Street but with a quieter atmosphere. Book Here!
- The Perry Hotel: This boutique hotel boasts a modern and stylish design with a rooftop pool and stunning views. It’s located in the heart of the action on Duval Street, ideal for those who want to be in the thick of things. Book Here!
Luxury $$$
- The Marker Key West: This oceanfront resort offers spacious, luxurious accommodations with a spa, multiple pools, and stunning views. It’s ideal for those who want to relax and indulge in a truly pampering experience. Book Here!
- The Reach Waldorf Astoria Key West: This iconic hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and prime location on Duval Street. Book Here!
Book A Cute, Cozy Beachy AirBnB Here!
Conclusion Miami to Key West Road Trip
As you reluctantly peel yourself away from Key West’s charm, take your time on the drive back to Miami. Stop for a swim at a secluded beach, grab fresh seafood lunch at a roadside shack, or simply savor the ever-changing scenery.
We stopped for a swim at a secluded beach, the crystal-clear water a welcome relief from the afternoon heat. A roadside shack offered the most delicious fresh fish sandwiches, a perfect lunch with a view. The ever-changing scenery, from turquoise waters to lush mangroves, kept us entertained on our way back to Miami and it was such a memorable trip.
