Miami to Key West Road Trip: Ultimate Guide to the Florida Keys
Key West, Florida
Embark on the iconic drive from Miami to Key West along the stunning Florida Keys—a quintessential American road trip. Discover what to expect and my top recommendations for an unforgettable journey.
Key West marks the southernmost point in the continental U.S., just 90 miles from Cuba, and lies about 4 hours from Miami via the breathtaking Overseas Highway.
This 160-mile route features 42 bridges connecting the islands, offering quirky attractions and scenic views en route to the self-proclaimed Conch Republic.
No South Florida adventure is complete without this drive, perfect for fans of pirates, key lime pie, water sports, and vibrant live music.
Here are my favorite stops and experiences on the Miami to Key West road trip through the Florida Keys.
Table Of Contents- Key West Road Trip Guide
- Driving Through The Florida Keys
- Islamorada Key: Things To Do
- Marathon Key: Things To Do
- Where To Stay In Marathon Key
- Bahia Honda State Park
- Key West: Things To Do
- Where To Stay In Key West
- Where To Eat In Key West
- Florida Keys Travel Tips & Advice
Miami to Key West Road Trip Guide
Driving Through The Florida Keys
From Miami, head south to Key Largo, then traverse the 113-mile Overseas Highway across the Florida Keys' chain of islands linked by picturesque bridges—a drive that's truly unforgettable.
For the ultimate experience, rent a convertible like the Jeep Wrangler I drove from Tons Of Fun Tours. Drop the top and savor the coastal vistas en route to Key West.
Alternatively, compare rates across major rental companies with Discover Cars for the best deal.
Rent A Car In Florida
Search both local and national car rental companies to help you find a good deal.
Check Latest Prices HereIslamorada Key: Things To Do
Feeding Wild Tarpon
Holding bait over the water, a massive tarpon lunged, mouth agape, thrilling onlookers at Robbie's Restaurant docks in Islamorada.
These giants grow up to 8 feet and 200+ pounds in the Keys' tropical waters. Purchase bait and hand-feed them—watch for their small teeth!
An essential thrill on any Miami to Key West itinerary.
Marathon Key: Things To Do
While Miami to Key West takes just 4 hours nonstop, the Keys offer endless highlights. Extend your trip over 2 days, overnighting in Marathon.
Stay at Faro Blanco Resort, then dine on fresh local fish at Tarpon Creek Bar & Grill or Lighthouse Grill.
Deep Sea Fishing Adventure
The Keys are a fishing paradise, hosting pro shows year-round—peak season September-November. Target mahi-mahi, sailfish, cobia, blackfin tuna, wahoo, and marlin. Marathon is a top charter hub.
Catch A Big One!
Charter a fishing boat and head out into open water to catch big game fish like Mahi, Marlin, and Barracuda!
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Walk Along Seven Mile Bridge
Gliding over turquoise waters on the iconic Seven Mile Bridge—built in 1912 for railroads—is mesmerizing. Park at Mile Marker 47 in Marathon and walk or bike the old span to Pigeon Key.
Where To Stay In Marathon Key
BEST HOTELS IN MARATHON KEY
Luxury
Faro Blanco Resort
Midrange
Seascape Resort
Budget
Siesta Motel
COOL AIRBNB’S IN MARATHON KEY
Luxury
Island Villa
Midrange
Deluxe Cabin
Budget
Cottage 07
Bahia Honda State Park
Spanning 500+ acres including an offshore island, Bahia Honda State Park offers premier snorkeling and beaches like Calusa and mile-long Sandspur. Admire the abandoned Bahia Honda Railroad Bridge, a relic of the Overseas Railway destroyed in the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane.
Key West: Things To Do
Key West brims with adventures—see my full Key West Travel Guide for more. Highlights include:
Sailing Day Trip
Charter a boat for private sailing lessons, exploring by wind power. Options range from day trips to sunset sails, snorkeling, and overnights.
Go Snorkeling In Key West
Swim with sea turtles, nurse sharks, parrotfish, and lobsters on nearby reefs. Opt for guided tours or snorkel from Fort Zachary Taylor State Park beach.
Snorkeling & Sailing Adventure
Go snorkeling from a sailboat at some of Key West’s best spots, and maybe see some wild dolphins!
Book Online NowVisit Hemingway’s House Cats
Ernest Hemingway's 1930s home in Key West houses 50+ six-toed cats—a delight for cat enthusiasts.
Watch Key West’s Epic Sunsets
Key West sunsets are legendary. View from Mallory Square with a drink or join a sunset sail for cocktails at sea, as the sky ignites in vibrant hues.
Sunset Sailing Cruise
Watch the sunset over Key West from the deck of an elegant sailing yacht. Drinks included!
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The Southernmost Point Buoy
Snap a photo at the iconic red-and-white buoy marking the continental U.S.'s southernmost point—arrive early to beat the crowds.
Bar Hopping Duval Street
This mile-long Duval Street pulses with bars in Victorian homes, live jazz, Cuban, and salsa music. Visit legends like The Green Parrot, Sloppy Joe's (Hemingway's haunt), or clothing-optional Garden of Eden.
Key West Pub Crawl
Party on famous Duval Street in Key West. Visit 5 pubs with a cocktail scheduled at each stop, a great way to make new friends!
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Where To Stay In Key West
BEST HOTELS IN KEY WEST
Luxury
Key West Marriott Beachside
Midrange
Chelsea House Hotel
Budget
Seashell International Hostel
COOL AIRBNB’S IN KEY WEST
Luxury
Malaga Room
Midrange
Floating Tiny House
Budget
Ocean Front Studio
Where To Eat In Key West
Savor hogfish with jasmine rice and pineapple salsa at Bagatelle on Duval—one of my top meals. Key lime pie, invented here with native key limes, shines at Key Lime Pie Company.
Key West Food tour
Explore the intoxicating flavors of Key West’s food. Sample the island’s best while guided by a local foodie.
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Florida Keys Travel Tips & Advice
- Nonstop Miami to Key West: ~4 hours; with stops, plan a full day.
- Ideal: 2-3 days, overnighting on islands like Marathon.
- Winter peak is busy; March-May offers milder crowds, better rates, great weather.
