day trips to florida keys

The Perfect 5 Day Florida Keys Itinerary for First Timers

In this article, I’m sharing the perfect 5 day Florida Keys itinerary, ideal for first time visitors. The Florida Keys are a pretty epic American road trip destination. You’ll find yourself driving along an overseas highway, hopping between different tropical islands.

I’m basing this itinerary off my most recent trip to the Florida Keys, in which I road tripped from Miami Airport to Key West and back again with my friend Mary, exploring multiple keys along the way.

Highlights of this 5 day Florida Keys itinerary include:

• Snorkeling in the USA’s first underseas park
• Key lime pie… lots of key lime pie
• Beach resorts and bed & breakfasts
• Fishing (and then eating your fish for dinner!)
• Sunset sailing
• Exploring a tropical fruit grove
• Driving the Seven Mile Bridge
• Touring a sea turtle hospital
• Visiting Key West classics like the Ernest Hemingway House

Let’s get to it.

5 Day Florida Keys Itinerary: An Introduction

This 5 day itinerary is designed for first time visitors to the Florida Keys to give you an overview to each of the main keys. Maybe you have been to Key West before, but this is your first time exploring the keys as a whole.

Did you know that the Florida Keys are made up of about 1,700 islands, all connected by a 113-mile overseas highway? Yep, you’ll be road tripping over water in this epic itinerary.

This 5 Day Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary:

Miami > Key Largo > Islamorada > Key West > Marathon > Miami

How Many Days Do You Need in the Florida Keys?

In my experience, five days is the minimum amount of time required to road trip the Florida Keys, if you’re planning to visit more than just Key West.

Below I’m sharing the ideal Florida Keys itinerary for first timers, spread across five full days. Note that I say five full days, because this itinerary does involve travel in and out of Miami Airport on days 0 and 6.

Here is a quick day-by-day breakdown of my recommended way to spend 5 days in the Florida Keys:

• Day 0 : Fly into Miami
• Day 1: Miami > Islamorada
• Day 2: Islamorada
• Day 3: Islamorada > Key West

Day 4: Key West

• Day 5: Key West > Marathon
• Final Day: Marathon > Miami

You can read my itinerary in much more detail below. I’ve designed the itinerary with general activity lists, rather than restricting you hour-by-hour, because I think that’s more helpful (and digestible, as a reader!).

Let’s get to it!

Car Rental for a Florida Keys Road Trip

You’ll need to rent a car for this Florida Keys road trip, unless you live in Florida or are driving down!

Reserve your rental car at least a few weeks in advance, to avoid any car shortages. Then, pick it up at the rental car counter at Miami Airport.

I recommend Discover Cars for car rental in the Florida Keys, because they show you the best deal from many different companies. You can filter by your personal preferences, such as size of car or insurance level.

Day 0: Fly to Miami

Highlights: Arrival to Miami, pick up rental car.

Your task for “day zero” is just to fly into Miami (or Fort Lauderdale) and pick up your rental car. Of course, you could do this early on your first full day instead, but personally I enjoyed doing this the night before so we had a fresh start for our road trip in the morning!

Where to Stay

Stay somewhere close to the Miami Airport. We stayed at the AC Hotel Miami Airport West for one night and I recommend it. It was a quick drive from the Miami Airport, and the hotel itself was sooo nice and comfortable with some high tech amenities.

Where to Eat

Have a quick dinner. For your first night, I recommend you just grab a quick meal before the adventure starts tomorrow.

Mary and I actually popped by Chipotle for takeout, which we ate in our room at the AC Hotel!

Doral City Place is another option very close to the AC Hotel Miami Airport West. It’s a large shopping center with lots of restaurants.

Fly into Miami. Obviously!

Pick up your rental car. This took us a surprisingly long time (1 hour) with the lines at the car rental station, so be sure to account for that possibility.

Relax in hotel. Mary and I actually ended up watching The African Queen (which we were able to play via Youtube on the massive TV in our AC hotel room ). This was as “research” for our steamboat ride on day 1 – read about that below!

Day 1: Miami to Key Largo to Islamorada

Highlights: A steamboat tour, fisheries lunch, check into beach resort.

Drive time: 2 hours

The first full day of your 5 day Florida Keys itinerary is all about the upper keys. You’ll spend the day driving from Miami down to your beach resort in Islamorada, which takes about 2 hours in total with some fun stops along the way in Key Largo (the northernmost key).

Day 1 | Miami to Key Largo to Islamorada:

• Check out of AC Hotel Miami Airport West
• Drive to Key Largo (~1.5 hours)
• 10am pre-booked steamboat tour on The African Queen
• Lunch at Key Largo Fisheries and Backyard Cafe
• Key lime pie at Keys Chocolate and Ice Cream
• Drive to Islamorada (~30 minutes)
• Check in to Postcard Inn Beach Resort
• Dinner at Twisted Shrimp
• Cocktails and beach sunset at Postcard Inn

I recommend booking a beach resort in Islamorada. We stayed at Postcard Inn Beach Resort for two nights. This was a great central location for the two days of our itinerary that we spent exploring the upper keys.

Postcard Inn is special because it’s directly on the ocean, and guests have access to paddle boards, kayaks, bikes, and more.

Fun fact: this resort is also where the rum runner cocktail was invented! Obviously, we had to partake.

Book your stay at Postcard Inn here.

RELATED | Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys (For All Budgets)

Lunch at Key Largo Fisheries (Key Largo). This is a very “keys” experience and perfect for lunchtime. Eat some super fresh fish or crab (or lobster!) and see the nurse sharks swimming off the dock.

Key lime pie at Keys Chocolate and Ice Cream (Key Largo). If you are like Mary and I, then you’ll obviously waste no time in getting your hands on some key lime pie.

I recommend stopping at Keys Chocolate and Ice Cream after lunch for their chocolate-covered key lime pie on a stick (and yes, it was gluten free!! Read my guide to finding gluten free key lime pie in the Florida Keys here ).

Dinner at Twisted Shrimp (Islamorada). A roadside seafood restaurant where you can actually eat IN a boat!

This place is extremely on brand for the keys.It’s laidback, family owned, and the (gluten free) fried shrimp is a delight. It is a great stop for dinner on your first night!

RELATED | Gluten Free Key West and the Florida Keys Guide

Cocktails at Postcard Inn’s Tiki Bar. You HAVE to visit the Tiki Bar for obvious reasons – this is reportedly where the rum runner cocktail was invented!

Go on The African Queen Steamboat Tour. Taking this historic steamboat tour is the highlight activity of the first day of your 5 day Florida Keys itinerary. This is literally THE boat that featured in the 1951 adventure film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. It’s actually on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

I recommend booking a tour for 10am, which is what we did. This was good timing as it gave us ample time to drive down from Miami, and we finished in time for lunch.

It was somewhat surreal sitting in this boat, cruising through the Key Largo canals and out to the ocean and back, after just having watched the movie the night before. Check availability and book your tour here .

Day 2: Islamorada and Key Largo

Highlights: A snorkel tour, charter fishing, and catch-and-cook dinner.

The theme for day two is adventure in the upper keys! This is your day to go snorkeling at the famous John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – the first undersea park in the United States!

Unfortunately for Mary and I, it was very windy on this day of our Florida Keys road trip… so our snorkel tour got CANCELED! This was a huge bummer, but nature happens, my friends.

The Keys can be particularly windy so it’s not unheard of for water activities to get canceled. With that in mind, we still had a wonderful day and were able to go charter fishing in the afternoon.

Day 2 | Islamorada and Key Largo:

• Quick breakfast
• 9am snorkeling tour at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (alternatively: swimming and paddle boarding at Postcard Inn’s beach)
• Lunch at The Fish House
• 1pm fishing charter trip
• Relax at Postcard Inn and get ready for dinner
• “Catch and cook” dinner at Chef Michael’s

You’ll spend a second night at your resort in Islamorada. We spent our second night at the wonderful Postcard Inn . I enjoyed having two nights in Islamorada, despite this being a pretty fast-paced 5 day Florida Keys itinerary.

Postcard Inn was a good home base to drive around the upper keys from. Plus, it was so great to have direct beach access, especially after our snorkel tour got canceled!

Quick breakfast. I recommend having a quick breakfast on day 2, because your itinerary today is pretty packed! Mary and I grabbed some food from the Starbucks by Postcard Inn (notably: the last Starbucks for 90 miles!).

Lunch at The Fish House Restaurant and Seafood Market (Key Largo). I stopped here for lunch to try their famous “Matecumbe” sauce which is essentially fresh fish simmered up with capers, shallots, and other delights. This dish has been featured multiple times on the Food Network – for good reason. Highly recommend!

Dinner at Chef Michael’s (Islamorada). For dinner, Mary and I dressed up and dined in style at Chef Michael’s (reservations recommended). Actually, we ate the fish that we caught earlier that day on our fishing trip – so fun!

This is also the place to try Lionfish – by eating it you are supporting their efforts to cull this invasive species and save the nearby reefs.

Snorkeling tour at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Ideally, you should spend the first half of your day enjoying an epic snorkeling tour off the coast of Islamorada.

Tours last 2.5 hours and depart 9am, 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm (for this itinerary, I recommend booking the 9am). Book your tour ahead of time here .

Fishing trip with Bamboo Charters . After lunch, head out on the water again but this time with Captain Matt Bellinger of Bamboo Charters. He’s an experienced fisherman, and will help you catch some Florida Keys fish no matter your experience level.

On our trip, we caught a lot of small snapper, which we saved for a catch-and-cook dinner at Chef Michael’s (arrange this with Captain Bellinger ahead of time). We also had an extremely thrilling hour-long struggle with a giant sting ray – don’t worry, we released it!

Fishing charters can be booked for 8am or 1pm, in groups up to six people, and you can choose a 4-, 6-, or 8-hour option. For this itinerary, I recommend the 4-hour 1pm-5pm option. Book your fishing charter here .

Relax at the beach. Your other job for today? Chill out and enjoy the beautiful Florida Keys beach – with direct access from Postcard Inn !

Of course Mary and I were disappointed when our snorkel tour was canceled, but this didn’t stop us from taking the paddleboards out at Postcard Inn.

Day 3: Islamorada to Big Pine Key to Key West

Highlights: A tropical fruit farm, the Seven Mile Bridge, and Cuban food in Key West.

Today you’ll get back into road trip mode, by driving down to Key West and passing over the famous Seven Mile Bridge. The total drive time from Islamorada to Key West is two hours, but you’ll take some fun stops along the way – including a picnic lunch at a very unique tropical fruit farm!

Day 3 | Islamorada to Big Pine Key to Key West:

• Check out of Postcard Inn
• Breakfast at Mangrove Mike’s
• Visit Florida Keys History & Discovery Center
• Drive to Big Pine Key (~1 hour)
• Visit Grimal Grove Tropical Fruit Farm
• Drive to Key West (~1 hour)
• Check in to The Gardens Hotel
• Cuban food for dinner and Sloppy Joe’s

I recommend staying at The Gardens Hotel in Key West. This was our home for two nights, and I loved it. This hotel is historic, quaint, and has a lovely breakfast and pool.

The location is ideal – you can walk anywhere you want to go in Key West but it’s a couple blocks back so never gets too loud at night. There’s also champagne on arrival and on site parking.

Book your stay at The Gardens Hotel here.

Breakfast at Mangrove Mike’s (Islamorada). Start your day off with the most Americana vibes diner you could imagine, just a five minute drive from Postcard Inn.

I particularly loved that they had gluten free pancakes! Definitely recommend eating breakfast here on at least one of your days in Islamorada.

Picnic lunch. For lunch, I recommend having a picnic, either at Bahia Honda State Park or at Grimal Gove (a tropical fruit grove that I share more about below!).

Dinner at El Meson de Pepe (Key West). You just have to try Cuban food in Key West and this is a great family-owned place to do it, recommended by locals and easy walking distance from your hotel if you stay at The Gardens Hotel.

Visit the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center (Islamorada). After breakfast, your first stop of the day should be this history museum. It’s in Islamorada and only a five-minute drive from Postcard Inn, so it’s an easy way to start our day. During our visit, I learned a LOT about the Florida Keys (did you know it was originally an overseas railroad?).

Drive the Seven Mile Bridge. Your drive today includes this incredible landmark. After passing Marathon and before reaching Big Pine Key, you must first drive over seven miles of turquoise ocean.

Take a tour of Grimal Grove . I absolutely recommend making time to stop at Grimal Grove, a tropical fruit grove in Big Pine Key with a super unique back story. This is the only breadfruit grove in the country and tours include “tropical fruit hunting” and a fun tasting session where you eat breadfruit curry, fried breadfruit, sugarcane juice, and more (AKA, lunch!).

Tours last 75-90 minutes and are available Tuesday to Saturday at 10:30am, 1pm, or 3:30pm (I recommend the 1pm time slot for this itinerary!). Book your tour here .

Get settled at your hotel. After driving another hour, you’ll arrive in Key West! Check in to your hotel (I recommend booking The Gardens Hotel ) where you’ll be staying the next two nights.

Check in involves a complimentary glass of champagne, and you may even have time to jump in the pool and say hello to the resident cat and tortoise!

Drinks and nightlife on Duval Street. After a delicious Cuban dinner, make the most of your first night in Key West with a trip to the iconic Sloppy Joe’s – the bar that Ernest Hemingway frequented in Key West. Just a warning: it’s going to be crowded… and sloppy!

The entirety of Duval Street will be bustling, so if Sloppy Joe’s isn’t your vibe then you still have plenty of bars to pick from.

Highlights: full day to explore Key West, literary walking tour, key lime pie, museums, and sunset sailboat tour.

Today you can put the car keys away and devote a full day to exploring Key West!

There are honestly so many things to do in Key West but I’m sharing my personal ideal one day schedule below. If I was to extend this 5 day Florida Keys itinerary into a full week or longer, I’d give extra days to Key West because you only really get a taster with one full day.

Still, it’s a pretty epic day. If you follow my itinerary below, you’ll spend today eating key lime pie, drinking Cuban coffee, exploring on a literary tour, visiting historic sites, and sailing into the sunset with a drink in hand!

Day 4 | Key West:

• Breakfast at The Gardens Hotel
• Coffee from Cuban Coffee Queen Roasters
• 10am Literary Walking Tour by Key West Literary Seminars
• Lunch at Date & Thyme
• Eat some key lime pie
• Museum visit
• Sunset sailing tour with drinks and live music
• Dinner at Half Shell Raw Bar

We stayed a second night at The Gardens Hotel , and I recommend you do, too. I took advantage of the hotel’s amenities by swimming in the pool early in the morning!

Key West is the highlight of the Florida Keys for many people, so you definitely want one full day and two nights here.

Breakfast at The Gardens Hotel . Since our hotel was a bed and breakfast, we just went downstairs to eat a lovely breakfast out on the garden patio!

Coffee at Cuban Coffee Queen. This was a great stop to try the classic Cuban cafe con leche.

Lunch at Date & Thyme. You can really eat lunch anywhere today, but my personal recommendation would be this lovely organic market and cafe. They specialize in grab & go meals like wraps (and ice cream sandwiches!) and have plenty of vegan and gluten free options.

ALL the key lime pie. You’re in Key West, after all, so dedicate some time today to trying key lime pie! We did this directly after lunch.

Top 3 places to get key lime pie in Key West:

• Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Pie Shoppe
• Key West Key Lime Pie Company
• Key Lime Pie Bakery

RELATED | Where to Find Gluten Free Key Lime Pie in Key West

Dinner at Half Shell Raw Bar. For dinner tonight, embrace being by the seaside and head to this casual and quirky bar located in the Key West Historic Seaport.

It will be convenient after your sunset sailing trip ends (more on that, below!). I recommend at least one platter of oysters.

Go on a literary walking tour. Key West is known for its vibrant literary history. If, like me, that interests you, then be sure to go on this 1.5 hour tour. You’ll walk through the Old Town of Key West, visiting the homes and haunts of writers like Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, Tennessee Williams, Shel Silverstein, and Elizabeth Bishop.

Tours are offered Sundays and Wednesdays at 10am. If that doesn’t match your schedule, you can contact them about a private tour. The cost is $30 per person, and you can book your tour here .

Visit Judy Blume’s bookstore, Books and Books. This is another one for my fellow book worms. Whether or not you go on the literary walking tour you should definitely check out the Books and Books bookstore – this is owned by none other than Key West local author, Judy Blume! You may even see her during your visit.

Explore Key West’s historic sights. After your literary morning, lunch, and a sampling of key lime pie, it’s time to spend your afternoon on more traditional touristic pursuits.

Key West has SO many museums and historic sights. You can really only scratch the surface in one day (but don’t worry, you’ll also have time to visit some sights tomorrow morning).

Here are some museums and sights to see in Key West:

• Harry S. Truman Little White House
• Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters
• Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
• Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
• Key West Aquarium
• Tennessee Williams Museum

Personally, Mary and I chose to visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum this afternoon. That may seem like an odd choice but we really wanted to see some of the less well-known side of Key West and this museum was fascinating!

Take a sunset sailing trip . Finally, end your day in Key West with an incredible sunset sailboat trip out into the ocean, complete with complimentary cocktails and live music.

Mary and I took this exact sailing trip with Sebago Watersports and it was such a lovely way to end the day. There’s nothing like a Key West sunset seen from the ocean!

Book your sailing tour here.

Day 5: Key West to Marathon

Highlights: Southernmost Point, Ernest Hemingway Museum, Key West Lighthouse, Turtle Hospital, and a stunning beach resort.

Drive time: 1 hour

This is the final full day of your 5 day Florida Keys itinerary, but it’s still packed full of fun activities!

You’ll spend the morning exploring more of Key West, including the Southernmost Point and any museums you missed the day before. Then, you’ll drive north to Marathon where you’ll tour the famous Turtle Hospital, and check in to your hotel where you’ll have an incredible al fresco dinner by the beach.

Day 5 | Key West to Marathon:

• Breakfast at The Gardens Hotel (alternatively Green Pineapple cafe)
• Check out and hold luggage
• See more Key West sights
• Lobster pizza lunch at the Seaside Cafe at the Mansion
• Drive to Marathon
• Check in to Isla Bella Beach Resort
• Turtle Hospital Tour
• Relax at Isla Bella
• Dinner at Mahina at Isla Bella

You have a couple options of where to stay tonight, depending on when your flight home is. I recommend staying the night in Marathon, before driving back to Miami Airport the following morning. This maximizes your time and gives you 5 full days in the Florida Keys.

Alternatively, if you are flying home on day 5, then you may have to skip some of the itinerary below to drive back to Miami Airport in time for your flight.

Personally, on our final night in the Florida Keys we stayed at Isla Bella Beach Resort in Marathon. This was an incredible accommodation to end our trip on.

It’s luxurious yet surprisingly affordable, directly on the water with pools, beaches, bikes, and beautiful docks with sunrise views. There are also a few restaurants on site and this is where we had dinner – one of the best meals of our trip by far.

Book your stay at Islabella here.

Breakfast at your hotel or in town (Key West). Get an early breakfast today so you can get out and explore Key West. Either eat the complimentary breakfast at The Gardens Hotel , or check out Green Pineapple Cafe , a favorite of mine which opens at 8:30am.

Lunch at Seaside Cafe at the Mansion . Before you depart Key West, grab a quick lunch at this truly iconic restaurant that’s just steps from the Southernmost Point. Come here for their famous lobster pizza – it will not disappoint!

Dinner at Mahina at Isla Bella . Dress up and enjoy a final dinner in the Florida Keys at this Polynesian inspired restaurant at Islabella, where you can dine al fresco under the stars with a backdrop of ocean waves.

The filet mignon is to die for, and top it off with a key lime pie martini! Reservations required.

Spend the morning exploring Key West. There is so much to see in Key West so you’re bound to have some places you still want to go after your full day in Key West yesterday. This is your time to visit them – just check out and have your hotel hold your luggage first!

On our final morning in Key West, Mary and I climbed up the Key West Lighthouse , before taking a tour of the Ernest Hemingway Home (a MUST when in Key West!) and hugging The Kapok Tree .

Then, we checked out the Southernmost Point marker, before getting a lobster pizza lunch. It was a pretty packed morning!

You could easily do the same, or change it up and visit any of the other sights I listed previously.

Turtle Hospital tour (Marathon). This was one of the highlights of my whole Florida Keys road trip! Marathon is home to a world class sea turtle rehabilitation center, and it’s actually open to the public to visit.

Tours are offered on the half hour, from 9am to 4pm, and cost $35 per person. Reservations are highly recommended! Book your tour here .

Relax at Isla Bella . After your turtle hospital tour, return to your hotel and relax before dinner. Soak up your final hours in the Florida Keys!

If you stay at Isla Bella Beach Resort like we did, then I recommend taking a dip in one of the pools.

Final Day: Marathon to Miami Airport

Highlights: Pigeon Key, drive to Miami Airport and fly home.

Drive time: 2.5 hours

All good things must come to an end. On your final day in the Florida Keys, your main job is to check out of your hotel and drive back to the Miami Airport (~2.5 hours driving time) to return your rental car and fly home.

Be sure to give yourself ample time to drive back to Miami before your flight, especially if you’re driving on a Friday or Sunday, due to traffic!

If you have time before you check out, consider taking the complimentary bikes at Isla Bella and riding to Pigeon Key and back. I also recommend checking out the Marketplace at Isla Bella before you leave – it’s an epic 5,000 square foot space with a cafe, perfect for picking up some souvenirs (and lunch for the road) before you depart!

If You Have More or Less Time on Your Florida Keys Roadtrip…

You can shorten or extend my suggested itinerary as needed, based on your flight times.

If I had to cut a night from my 5 day Florida Keys itinerary above, it would perhaps be the final night in Marathon (and just drive directly to Miami Airport). However, Isla Bella Beach Resort was my favorite hotel and a wonderfully relaxing way to end the trip, so it really depends on your travel style.

On the other hand, if I could add days to this itinerary and make it a full week in the Florida Keys, then I’d add a full day in Key West. Another day in Islamorada also would have been useful due to the weather cancellation of our snorkeling trip.

For the ultimate relaxation, I’d also add a couple days at Deer Run on the Atlantic , a sustainable bed and breakfast on Big Pine Key. A girl can dream!

5 Day Florida Keys Itinerary: Final Thoughts

That completes my 5 day Florida Keys road trip itinerary… I hope it’s helpful to you as you plan your own trip to the Florida Keys.

If you have any questions, just leave me a comment below. Happy traveling, and enjoy the Florida Keys!

Check out my other Florida Keys blog posts…

Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys

Gluten Free Key West and the Florida Keys: Complete Guide

Where to Find Gluten Free Key Lime Pie in Key West

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Best Places to Stay in the Florida Keys For All Budgets

Gluten Free Key West and the Florida Keys: The Complete Travel Guide (2024)

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• Things To Do in the Fort Myers Area
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Fort Myers & Naples Day Trips – Key West Express

Day trips from Naples, Florida don’t require packing up the family for a long car ride. The Key West Express can take you for a day at the Southernmost Point with less stress, and in less time than it would take to drive!

Ferry Boat to Key West

The Key West Express is a jet-powered modern catamaran that travels from Marco Island and Fort Myers Beach to Key West and back again daily. This fast and fun option offers smooth and fast travel to the jewel of the Florida Keys. Leave in the morning and make it to Key West just in time for lunch. Stay for the day to explore Old Town or extend the trip.

Photo courtesy Key West Express

The ferry offers many comfortable amenities, making the 3 1/2-hour trip comfortable and even enjoyable! Relax indoors while enjoying the flat-screen TVs, enjoy a snack, or even a few drinks at one of the bars. For a Gulf Coast view, head up to the sundeck to enjoy the weather, the seas, and the salty air.

The Key West Express ferry docks in Key West at the City Bight Ferry Terminal in the Historic Seaport of Key West, FL. It’s a short walk to downtown or transportation is available. The Historic Seaport offers many options for dining, shopping, and sightseeing. Take a trolley or tour train for a quick overview of the island. The well-known bars and restaurants are a short walk from the docking area.

Tips to Make Your Afternoon in Key West a Pleasure

The island is very small. The streets in the older sections of town are narrow, and parking is limited. The best way to get around is on foot or by bicycle.

If you’re going to spend the day on foot, be sure to bring comfortable shoes, and pack only a light bag. Think of it like walking a big theme park like Disney World. You’ll do far more walking than you will sitting, and you will be carrying anything you brought with you all day.

Make sure you have a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The topical sun at this latitude can be very intense in the early afternoons.

Keep your camera handy, there are lots of interesting sites and people that you will want to share with friends and family. For those of you that like to post to social media instantly, your ability to do so will depend on your cellular carrier and where you are at the moment. You might want to shoot lots of pictures and upload later.

Tip from the conchs that know, there is a Walgreens on Duval and Southard just a few steps down from Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. Any essentials from film to bottled water can be picked up easily there, and if you have a discount card, they’ll honor it just like any other Walgreens in the country.

If you’d rather not do so much walking, try a bicycle. There are several bicycle rental shops all over Key West. Or if you have your bike with you in Florida, the Key West Express will let you take it along on the ferry.

If you’re taking the Key West Express back to Marco Island, the ship begins boarding at 4:00 p.m. The return trip to Ft. Myers boards at 5:00 p.m.

Contact the Key West Expres s for additional information and to make a reservation   239.463.5733. 

Written by: Nita Ettinger

Nita Ettinger is Co-publisher for Siesta Publications Inc. and the Editor in Chief for Must Do Visitor Guides. Must Do Visitor Guides provides Southwest Florida visitor information through printed magazines and the website MustDo.com. Must Do magazines are published bi-annually and are available at no cost in Sarasota, Lee, and Collier County Chamber of Commerce, visitor information centers, select Southwest Florida hotels, and wherever free publications can be found.

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The Ultimate Itinerary for a Day Trip to Key West

I tend to think that after spending an entire summer living and working in Key West that I should be able to curate the perfect day trip to Key West… and that’s just what I’ve done for you. When I lived and worked on the island I spent each day off exploring as much of Key West as possible and eating as much awesome Key West food as possible. You can read my ultimate Key West bucketlist with seriously almost every single cool thing there is to do on the island (almost 100 things!). However, if you are looking for what to do in Key West for a day, I am here to give you (from all of my experience and research) the perfect one-day itinerary!

check out this post: The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do

*There may be affiliate links in this post.  Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

Best Time of Year to Spend a Day Key West

One of the magical things about visiting Key West is that you can basically go any time of year and have a great experience. That being said, there are a few things to note about the weather and potential crowds at different times of year in the Florida Keys.

Spring and fall generally are the best times to visit Key West for the most moderate weather. You can expect temperatures to be in the 80s F and you will find fewer crowds than in winter. Speaking of winter, you can expect the most crowds in winter and temperatures to drop to the mid-70s F with lows around 65° F.

In the summer you can expect high humidity and temperatures in the 90s F. Speaking from experience, this definitely feels quite toasty. However, if you are willing to bear the heat, you will be rewarded with less crowds (and possibly a little bit or a lot a bit of seaweed along the beaches depending on the year). Hurricane season generally runs from June-November with higher chances of hurricanes forming towards the latter end of that period.

Obviously, hurricanes don’t pass through the Florida Keys every year, but it’s something to be aware of when planning your ideal Florida Keys itinerary. As I said, I have experience with being in Key West for an entire summer, however, I also returned with my husband on a  Florida road trip  end of October/early November and the weather was perfect and it really felt like the perfect time to visit (minus the fact that a hurricane had come through that summer leaving a few things in shambles 😬 but we were happy to support Key West during a hard time).

Related post: 17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Key West, Florida

1 day key west itinerary: quick look.

• Morning: Breakfast/Brunch at Blue Heaven
• Go snorkeling at Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
• Afternoon: Eat Lunch at the cute Cuban Coffee Queen shack along the waterfront
• Snap a pic at the iconic ‘Greetings From Key West’ mural
• Stroll/shop along the Key West Historic Seaport
• Taste Key Lime Pie on a stick from Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe
• Visit the Southernmost Point and Mile Marker Zero
• Evening: Watch the sunset at the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
• Eat Dinner on Duval at Amigos Tortilla Bar

*Use this interactive map to see where all the top stops are for a great day in Key West*

Key West Day Trip In-Depth Itinerary

1. breakfast or brunch at blue heaven.

You have probably seen other sites recommend Blue Heaven for a meal and it is definitely for good reason. Eating breakfast or brunch at Blue Heaven is one of my top recommendations for things to do in Key West. Thankfully, breakfast is served until 2:00 pm, so even if you are running late you can most likely catch breakfast!

Blue Heaven is such a cute eatery and it’s a local hotspot. Unfortunately, reservations aren’t available, but when you arrive, be sure to ask for a seat outside in their relaxed open-air area. It really is my favorite place to sit and eat. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear some live music and watch the infamous Key West chickens roaming the patio.

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I recommend ‘Richard’s Very Good Pancakes’ which are huuuge pancakes with chunks of either banana, pineapple, pecans, or blueberries within! If you are feeling up for some Key Lime Pie, Blue Heaven has one of the most unique pies in Key West with a crazy high topping of meringue.

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related post: Ultimate Key West Food Guide | 19 Places You Must Try

2. snorkeling at fort zachary taylor state park.

Fort Zachary Taylor beach is the ultimate hidden gem of Key West. When I worked in Key West for a summer I quickly learned the locals call it Fort Zach and that it’s one of their favorite spots on the island to visit. I returned to Key West with my husband a few years back and even though we only had about 1.5 days on the island, we made sure to snorkel at Fort Zach.

Key West has a lot of beaches, but only one of them is good for snorkeling, and that’s the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. The only other option for snorkeling (which is also a great option) is to take an excursion to snorkel at the Florida Reef a few miles offshore. However, if you want to stay on the island, Fort Zach beach is amazing.

The beach has two rocky jetties home to many colorful fish plus the water is a lovely blue/green color. You can rent snorkel gear, seats and umbrellas from a stand on the sand and even grab a snack from Cayo Hueso Cafe if you get hungry.

If you have more time, you can also take a self-guided tour of a Civil War Era Fort at the state park and wander the pretty walking trails in the area. Check out my 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park post to learn more!

related post: 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida

3. lunch at cuban coffee queen.

If you aren’t totally still stuffed from breakfast at Blue Heaven, after snorkeling you’ll want to swing by Cuban Coffee Queen for a yummy drink, Cuban favorites or other sandwhiches and salads. And the best part is, everything is super reasonably priced (which is a huge bonus to find in Key West).

Cuban Coffee Queen has multiple locations on the island, however, my favorite (and in my opinion the cutest) is their original location on Margaret Street near the Key West Historic Seaport. It’s an adorable walk-up stand right near the water and the side of the establishment has the infamous ‘Greetings From Key West’ mural. From here, you’ll be able to walk to enjoy another great area of Key West (more on that below).

4. Snap a Pic at the Iconic ‘Greetings From Key West’ Mural

Be sure to snap a pic at the infamous ‘Greetings From Key West’ mural on the side of Cuban Coffee Queen. Even if you don’t want to stop for food, this is still a great area for a cute pic and a perfect place to start exploring the Key West Historic Seaport.

5. Stroll Through the Key West Historic Seaport

Right near Cuban Coffee Queen and the Key West mural, is the lovely historic seaport. It’s a nice area to go for a relaxed stroll (much quieter than Duval Street). You can get great harbor views of the sailboats and yachts plus even do some shopping and pick up some trinkets or other items to take home as souvenirs.

The cutest road to stroll is the pedestrian-only road called Lazy Way Lane. It has cute, colorful shops, palm trees and lots of islandy trinket shops.

6. Get Key Lime Pie on a Stick at Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe

Even if you only have one day in Key West, you MUST try Key Lime Pie. One of the quirkiest and yummiest pies to get is the Kermit’s Key Lime Pie, dipped in chocolate served on a stick. Yep, you heard that right, served like a popsicle! If that sounds like a little much to you, you can also buy it on a stick NOT dipped in chocolate, or you can just purchase a traditional slice of pie. However, if you’re only going to try one piece of Key Lime Pie, I definitely recommend Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe .

They have a few locations in Key West, however, I like the Elizabeth Street location that is right near the Historic Seaport. It’s a super cute yellow and green wooden building and their original location on the island.

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check out this post: 8 Best Places to Try Key Lime Pie in Key West

7. walk and shop on duval street.

Duval Street is the largest main street in Key West known for bars, restaraunts, galleries and tourist shops and one of the most popular things to do during a day in Key West. For a calmer, more family-friendly experience on Duval, you may want to walk and shop Duval Street during the day.

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One of my favorite spots is the fanciest Walgreens you’ll ever see (yes… Walgreens). The Walgreens on Duval is stationed in a converted, colorful, vintage building called The Strand Theater. From the outside you would neverrrr guess this beautiful building is currently home to a Walgreens. Another favorite cute spot on Duval is the rainbow crosswalk intersection.

At night, the bars on Duval come alive and the sidewalks are crowded. If the bar scene is your thing, you may consider booking a Duval Street pub crawl to experience some of the island’s most iconic bars like Sloppy Joe’s.

8. Visit the Southernmost Point and Mile Marker Zero

While definitely touristy, making a quick stop at the Southernmost Point and Mile Marker Zero are two classic things to do in Key West in one day. The Southernmost Point marker indicates the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States, from this point you are actually closer to Cuba than Miami! It’s a fun spot that’s mostly a quick photo opportunity.

Mile Marker Zero is similar to the Southernmost Point in that it’s a very quick stop/photo-op. It’s the end of Highway US 1 and just a fun spot to see as you are so far south in the Florida Keys.

Related post: The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do

9. watch the sunset at the sunset celebration at mallory square.

If you are doing Key West in a day, I sure hope you have time to stick around for sunset because the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is one of my favorite things about Key West. I have visited the sunset celebration many, many times and it’s always a fun experience.

Beginning about two hours before sunset, right on the water in Mallory Square, you’ll catch the Sunset Celebration every single night of the year. There are local vendors, musicians, stunt performers and more! From here you get to watch the huge ball of sun drop below the horizon and possibly even clap once it’s set! It really is a great time.

If you prefer a quieter and possibly more romantic experience watching the sunset, be sure to check out one of the many awesome sunset sails that Key West offers. You can hop aboard a large catamaran, sailboat or even a small private boat to experience the sunset from the water. I also have done a sunset sail in Key West and it’s another awesome way to experience the sunset that I highly recommend. For other great excursion ideas check out my top Key West excursions guide (they are all worth the price!).

related post: The 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need Watch the Sunset in Key West

10. eat dinner at amigos tortilla bar.

When living in Key West, Amigos was by far the restaraunt I most frequently visited. It’s a super yummy Mexican joint with the option to sit in the open-air facing Duval Street (makes for great people watching). You can buy delicious tacos, burritos or bowls with various veggie and meat options with (of course) Baja fish being a top contender.

Amigos is a great option for a relaxed, yummy dinner on Duval in the heart of Key West. If you are curious about other great places to eat, be sure to check out my Ultimate Key West Food Guide.

And that is the best way to spend your day in Key West! Please let me know if you have any questions about a day trip to Key West from Miami or from anywhere in the Florida Keys!  I’m a real person  that loves to talk travel and I’ll be sure to get back to you!

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

• Ultimate Key West Food Guide | 19 Places You Must Try
• 17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Key West, Florida
• The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do
• 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida

8 Key West Excursions Definitely Worth the Money

• 8 Best Places to Try Key Lime Pie in Key West
• The 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need Watch the Sunset in Key West
• 5 Reasons You Need to Rent Jet Skis in Key West + How to Rent

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Is this a walkable route or should we rent a golf cart? We will be in KW for a day on a cruise ship. Thanks

Hey Meggan! How fun you’ll be in Key West for a day. I’d say it depends on how comfortable you are with walking and how much time you have in port. the longest walk is only 30 minutes with a couple 20 minute walks in there as well. However, walking is a great way to see the area so I do recommend it if you have time/ability. Otherwise, a golf cart is the next best idea!

Karen Schopp

I would like to go in April. Can you recommend a clean affordable place to stay for 2-3 days ?

Hey Karen! I don’t have many hotel recommendations, however, on the top of my list for next time we visit is The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West which is just barely off Key West on Stock Island which helps with the price a little bit (but they have a shuttle that takes you to Duval Street if needed).

Do you think it’s worth visiting Key West if I can only go for the day via Key West Express? Is that too short of a time? I’ll be visiting Sanibel for a while in late august and was thinking of taking a day trip from Fort Myers. Thank you.

Hey Barb! I hope you have a great time in Florida. It looks like the ferry is about 3.5 hours each way leaving around 4-5 hours to explore Key West in one day. To me that seems like a lot of travel time for not much time in Key West, however, it that sounds okay to you it could be worth it! A great option would be to take the Conch Tour Train to get a tour of the island and see all of the highlights. That would be a great way to make the most of your time there. I’d also recommend checking out the Historic Key West Seaport and picking up food from Blue Heaven or Cuban Coffee Queen. I hope this helps!

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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 and closest for those driving from Miami , 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 and top-rated hotels .

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.

Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

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.

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

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.

Paul Harris/Getty Images

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.

SKashkin/Getty Images

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.

ovidiuhrubaru/Getty Images

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.

MargaretW/Getty Images

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.

Chicago Tribune / Contributor via Getty Images

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.

John Burke/Getty Images

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.

Image Source/Getty Images

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.

LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images

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.

CelsoDiniz/Getty Images

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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Florida Keys Itinerary: The Ultimate 5-Day Trip

Oh the Florida Keys…

Full of so much natural beauty, rich history, and no shortage of great activities, there are many great ways to experience this unique destination. Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, heck you could easily spend a week in Key West alone! But in our opinion, the best way to experience the magic of the Florida Keys is too see them all by taking a road trip.

Behold, our ultimate 5-day itinerary through the Florida Keys!

DAY ONE: MIAMI to ISLAMORADA

When travelling to The Keys, you’ve got several options to get there including flying to Miami International, Key West International, as well as several cruise options from other locations in Florida. We arrived early in the morning in Miami, rented a car, and drove about an hour and a half south to the top of The Keys.

Our first stop on our Florida Keys itinerary was John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Located just past Key Largo,  John Pennekamp  is the first undersea park in the US and covers roughly 70 square miles of mangroves, coral reefs, and wildlife. We were truly impressed with how well managed the park is and the passion that the park employees have for protecting and sharing its natural wonder.

They offer various activities such as snorkeling, scuba, glass-bottom boat tours, as well as boat and kayak rentals. We opted for the snorkeling tour, which takes you on a half-hour boat ride out to the reef. During the boat ride, our tour leaders Doug and Dean did a great job of providing us with background on the park, what types of wildlife we might see out there, a safety briefing, several great nautical jokes, and even a snorkeling lesson for those who were first-timers.

At the reef, we saw countless tropical fish, colorful coral, someone even saw a sea turtle! We also got to check out the famous “Famous Christ of the Deep” statue, which was super cool to see. Overall this was a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, we can’t say enough about how great our guides were!

After working up an appetite snorkelling we checked into our room for the night at The Fisher Inn Resort to freshen up for dinner. Very recently renovated, the Fisher Inn is a modern, stylish and comfortable place right on water with various activities and boat access available. We loved what they’ve done with the place! An ideal spot to stay in Islamorada.

FLORIDA KEYS ITINERARY DAY TWO : ISLAMORADA to KEY WEST

An unassuming spot right off the highway, Robbie’s offers an eclectic mix of outdoor shops, food vendors and, our personal favorite, tarpon feeding. For those who don’t know, tarpon are MASSIVE sport fish that are spectacular to see swimming around and launching out of the water. What’s also cool about them is that they don’t have teeth, so you can buy a bucket of fish and feed the giants hanging out by the dock at Robbie’s.

It’s a bit adrenaline-pumping at first as these huge mouths come out of the water snatching the fish right out of your hands, but it’s unlike anything else. We liked it so much we got another two buckets of fish! Just watch out for the pesky pelicans 😛 Oh, and we saw a manatee come right up to the edge of the dock! It was wild.

After watching these giant creatures feed for so long, we started to get hungry ourselves, so we went for brunch at Robbie’s Marina restaurant, The Hungry Tarpon . A fantastic spot with amazing breakfast, we opted for the “alligator reef” Mexican scramble and the lobster frittata with hollandaise sauce (OMGGG wow!).

If you’re spending any time in Islamorada, Robbie’s Marina and The Hungry Tarpon are an absolute must.

We departed Robbie’s around noon and made our way down to Key West.

Upon arrival in Key West, we checked in to our home for the next three days,  The Southernmost Beach Resort . An absolutely immaculate resort, we could not have imagined a better place to stay in Key West. Located at the quiet end of Duval Street, The Southernmost Beach Resort features fantastic rooms, beaches, pools, and bars and is the perfect spot for couples or families looking to stay in a more tranquil part of Key West. They also offer bike rentals which we found to be the best way to get around Key West.

We stayed in the historic and beautiful La Mer House, in a gorgeous King room. Our house hosts made us feel extremely welcome and made sure that we had an exceptional stay. La Mer and Dewey house offer an exclusive breakfast spread every morning, and relaxing, delightful refreshments every afternoon. There was always a delicious selection of cheeses, deli meats, fresh fruit, and sweets, as well as a made-to-order chef’s special at breakfast. This is was a great time to recharge and relax, as well as socialize with our hosts and the other guests.

After our afternoon refreshments, we headed to the docks to hop aboard The Wind & Wine Sunset Sail with Danger Charters . Note: we were able to call and book this tour just a few hours in advance, but for most tours, it is recommended to book most tours 24 hours in advance to guarantee a spot, especially during the busy seasons.

Contrary to what you may assume from the name, Danger Charters offers an exceptionally relaxing sunset sail. What’s unique about them is that they offer a wine tasting while you sail! We sampled 8 different wines and various gourmet appetizers as we sailed and enjoyed the sunset. The crew was exceptional, ensuring that we were always taken care of, sharing interesting tidbits and anecdotes about The Keys, and engaging in great conversation. They also offer craft beers and non-alcoholic drinks for any non-wine drinkers.

The sunsets of Key West are truly spectacular and we would recommend seeing at least one of them from a sunset cruise.

FLORIDA KEYS ITINERARY DAY THREE:  THE DRY TORTUGAS

On day three, we checked off a bucket list item, The Dry Tortugas! Located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is famous for its spectacular waters and its prize historic feature, Fort Jefferson.

You can explore Fort Jefferson and the Dry Tortugas via a day-trip offered by Yankee Freedom . Trips depart from Key West daily aboard a large 250 passenger ocean-going catamaran that takes about 2 hours to make the crossing. Be warned that if there are strong winds, the seas can get quite rough, so be sure to check current conditions and take any necessary precautions to prevent motion sickness.

Along the way, the wonderful staff provided us with information on the geography and history of the area. Our lead guide, Hollywood, talked about the dynamic nature of the Tortugas and the key roles that they played for sailors in the early years of the US. He also pointed out some real-life treasure hunters who were searching for the remaining $600,000,000 treasure of two Spanish Galleons that went down in the area.

About an hour and half into the crossing, Fort Jefferson appears on the horizon. As you approach this immense structure in the middle of nowhere, one question comes pops into everyone’s mind, “Why on earth is this thing here??” Well, Hollywood explained everything once inside the fort, but you’ll have to visit yourself to find out 😉

Fort Jefferson is chilling. As you walk the moat around it or view the spectacular waters from atop its three story high roof, you really appreciate how much work went into building this spectacle and imagine what life would have been for fort dwellers. I can’t speak highly enough about how incredible exploring the fort and the islands was, and I’d love to go back and camp on the island for a night or two next time. Imagine the stars!

After a few hours exploring the Dry Tortugas, we reboarded the Yankee Freedom III and made our way back to Key West.

We made it back just in time to catch the sunset from  Bistro 245 at Margaritaville Resort . As I mentioned before, Key West sunsets cannot be missed!

Bistro 245 is right next to sunset square and the upstairs bar is a great place to get a view above the crowds and enjoy the end of the day with a margarita in hand. The crowds tend to leave once the sun goes down, but make sure to stay a little longer as the best part of the sunset usually happens 10-15 minutes  after  the sun goes below the horizon.

For dinner on day three, we hopped in the car and drove up to a local favorite,  Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar . Their aptly anointed “American coastal comfort food” features gourmet takes on the classics and fresh seafood all in a great location that earned them OpenTable’s 2018 Diners’ Choice Award for best ambiance. We highly recommend the crab beignets (uhh, yes please!!) and the black grouper.

FLORIDA KEYS ITINERARY DAY FOUR:  BREAKFAST OF A LIFETIME

Latitudes  is an absolute treat. Located on Sunset Key –  just a 6-minute complimentary ferry ride across from Key West – Latitudes and its executive chef Jerry Crocker offer a “work of art” menu that incorporates fresh locally sourced fish and tropical fruits, all in a spectacular setting. (If Sunset Key sounds familiar to you, it could be because Oprah rented out every cottage on the island one time for her friends and family).

Latitudes offers an exceptional menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you go for breakfast, treat yourself to the lobster benedict, you will not regret it.

After breakfast, we puttered around Sunset Key before hopping back on the ferry to Key West.

We spent most of the day exploring the streets of Key West. We walked the boardwalks, biked up and down Duval Street, checked out the quaint architecture, and then relaxed on the beach at The Southermost Beach Resort.

Following afternoon refreshments at the Resort, we made our way back to the piers to board our second sunset sail, this time with  Sebago . Aboard Sebago’s large catamaran you’ll find friendly staff, lots of deck space, bottomless beer, margaritas and sangria, plus a cash bar. We made a bunch of new friends while out on the water and although we prefer the Danger Charters experience, Sebago definitely provides a good economical option.

Upon arriving back at the dock we headed down the boardwalk and popped in for dinner at Turtle Kraals, another Key West classic. We sat outside up top with a great view of the marina and enjoyed a couple of key lime margaritas with delicious conch fritters, ribs, and ceviche.

FLORIDA KEYS ITINERARY DAY FIVE:  KEY WEST TO MARATHON

Key West, it’s been great! Time to work our way back.

After a superb breakfast at La Mer House, we said goodbye to our gracious hosts and headed north. We headed up to  Lazy Dog  where we had rebooked our kayak excursion from earlier in the week.

Kayaking through the mangroves is without a doubt the best way to see them. We were able to see all kinds of marine life (PLUS super cool iguanas!) and paddle through channels where mangroves were literally growing above our heads. The pace of the tour was relaxing and our guide, Lindsay, was friendly, knowledgeable, and ecologically responsible.

We came off the water, bid adieu to the fantastic Lazy Dog staff and made our way up the highway to our destination for the night,  The Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort  in Marathon.

We had worked up an appetite kayaking and so it was the perfect time to check out their on-site restaurant,  The Butterfly Cafe . Remember how I mentioned above about the Yellowtail Snapper? Well, this is where we discovered its magic.

Yellowtail Snapper is a Florida Keys speciality, so as per the chef’s recommendation, we both had it at The Butterfly Cafe, and it was game-changingly delicious.

We spent the rest of the day exploring the incredible grounds of the Resort. We hung out on the beach, grabbed a drink at the Tiki Bar, and putted on the putting greens (Lauren won). They also have kayaks and jet skis to take out, but we had already had our day out on the water. Tranquillity Bay is a fantastic place to stay for families and couples alike as their beautiful multi-bedroom units provide full kitchens, balconies, and plenty of amenities.

For our last dinner in The Keys, we went to  The Lighthouse Grill  at Faro Blanco Resort. They offer a flight of local craft beers and amazing seafood – the scallops with Boursin risotto was absolutely fantastic. Although we went for dinner this would be a great place for happy hour to catch the sunset and enjoy the goings on of the marina.

The next morning, we woke up and made our way back to Miami airport, from where we flew home. On your way back, make sure to take the highway 1 route, as our GPS suggested the backroads, which was a lot of stops and starts on one-way roads.

Overall, our trip to  The Florida Keys  exceeded our expectations. It’s hard to find a place with so much beauty, history, and great things to see and do. You can do as little or as much as you want, and have an incredible time. When we go back – which we surely will! – here are some of the things on our list that we didn’t have time for this time around: hire a fishing charter for the day, visit the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, check out the craft breweries, visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, and so much more! If you’re looking for a full list, check out our other blog of  9 epic things to do in the Florida Keys.

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THE BEST Day Trips from Miami to Key West

Day trips from miami to key west.

• Miami to Key West
• Miami to Merritt Island
• Miami to Weston
• Miami to Key Largo
• Miami to Everglades National Park
• Miami to Fort Lauderdale
• Miami to Florida City
• Miami to Key Biscayne
• Miami to North Bay Village
• Miami to Homestead
• Miami to Davie
• Miami to Bimini
• Miami to Sunrise
• Miami to Ochopee
• Miami to Wellington
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Key West Day Trip from Miami with Activities

2. Key West from Miami with Snorkeling, Drinks and Hard Rock Cafe Meal

3. Miami to Key West Day Trip with Activity Options & Hotel Pick

4. 1 Day Key West Tour from Miami Florida

5. Full-Day Key West Tour and Coral Reef Snorkeling with Open Bar

6. Miami to Key West Day Trip with Activity Options+Miami Airport

7. Enchanting Key West Tour in a Small Group from Miami

8. Private Key West Tour in a Small Group From Miami

9. Key West: The Conch Republic Come Alive

10. Key West Tour from Miami Private

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi - All Day Pass (up to 12 hours!)

Everglades Airboat Safari Adventure with Transportation

Fort Lauderdale to Key West Tour with Optional Add-ons

Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood: Key West Full-Day Tour in Luxury Coach Bus

Miami Bay Discovery Private Yacht Cruise with Captain

Sun, Snorkel & Sip : Key West Day Trip from Miami

Key Largo Day Trip from Sunny Isles Beach

Shared BIG GAME Sportfishing Up To Six People

Ft Lauderdale to Key West with Optional Activities

Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer

Peacock Bass Fishing Trips near Boca Raton

62ft Yacht Tour in Miami Beach with Captain Beneteau MC6 Fly

Luxurious 50ft Azimut Tour in Miami Beach

Key West Tours from Miami: Dolphin Discovery, Snorkeling & More !

From Fort Lauderdale to Key West Full-Day Tour

Full-Day trip to Key West from Sunny Isles

Everglades All Day Fishing Trip near Fort Lauderdale

Day Trip To Freeport, Grand Bahama - Tickets only

Fort Lauderdale Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Overseas Highway & Florida Keys Audio Tour Guide

Bahamas Day Cruise to Bimni

Peacock Bass Fishing Trip in Boynton Beach

Boca Raton Inshore Fishing Trip

All Day Bass Fishing Trip near Boca Raton

Key West Trip from Miami plus FREE Bike Rental in South Beach

What travelers are saying.

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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.

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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1 Day Key West Trip from Miami

• Take an unforgettable journey to the southernmost point in the US, beautiful Key West, with the leading shore excursions provider
• Travel in comfort with hotel pickup, air-conditioned coach ride, and scenic drive over the iconic 7-Mile Bridge
• Immerse in Key West's rich history by exploring spots like Hemingway House or the lively Mallory Square, all within your ample free time
• Enjoy the vibrant Key West Waterfront with shopping opportunities at an open-air marketplace
• Benefit from a safe and hassle-free return to your Miami hotel included, ensuring a seamless, unforgettable day trip

1 Day Key West Trip from Miami, FL

Cruise in comfort from Miami to explore the southernmost point in the U.S. on this fabulous Key West day trip.

Your 1-day Key West trip from Miami is the perfect way to escape to an island built for relaxation. After being picked up at your hotel by a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, you'll stop for breakfast. Your Miami trip to Key West continues with a picturesque drive through the tiny charming islands of the Upper Keys and over the famous 7-Mile Bridge. After arriving in Key West, you'll have several hours to explore historical favorites like the Hemingway House or Mallory Square. Spend some time on the Key West Waterfront for some shopping at the open-air marketplace and live music before a relaxing ride back to your Miami hotel.

This Key West adventure is a perfect way to enjoy the sights, sounds, and delicious drinks of this island paradise without worrying about how you'll get back to your hotel.

Please Note: This is a bus tour. Pick up is not available from the Port of Miami. The closest pickup location would be the Holiday Inn Downtown, which is about a 5-minute taxi ride (not included, approximately $15 US each way) from the cruise port. Also, due to limited space, vehicles are unable to accommodate luggage from passengers.

Miami to Key West: An Easy Day trip to the Florida Keys

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 5th March 2024

Categories USA

Last Updated on 5th March 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

From how to visit to the best things to do en route on this classic American road trip, here’s your guide on how to take a day trip from Miami to Key West, as well as different route options and what to see once on the beautiful island!

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then a visit to the Florida Keys is an absolute must. The most famous of the islands, Key West , is the most Southerly point of mainland USA and once there you can expect to find plenty of palm trees, an azure blue sea, and lots of history, including Ernest Hemingway’s former home. All this is not to mention that Miami to Key West is one of the best road trips in the USA .

The cats of Hemingway’s House

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When you imagine the sunny US state of Florida, you likely think of a sparkling sea, plenty of heat, and world-famous beaches. All this and more can be found in Key West, an island which is linked to the rest of the Florida Keys via a seven-mile bridge.

Some of the best things to do in Key West include a plethora of land and water-based activities, including boat trips, kayaking, and taking the trolley to explore the island via the hop on hop off bus. Other highlights are…

One of the best-kept secrets of Hemingway’s former home (the famous author lived on the island for fourteen years) is better-known now thanks to the rise of social media, though is just as adorably cute.

The Hemingway cats are unusual in that they’re polydactyl, meaning that they have six toes! Ernest received a kitten named Snow Whute in the 1930s (1935 to be precise!) and today almost all of the Hemingway Museum’s cats are descended from her.

Provided that you’re 21 or over, the hop on hop off trolley ticket also includes free entry to Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery. Created in collaboration with the Hemingway family, you’ll learn all about producing rum on a forty-five-minute factory tour, while the last fifteen minutes is dedicated to rum samplings!

It’s well known that Ernest Hemingway lived in the Florida Keys during the 20th-century… But did you know that President Harry S Truman ran the USA from the island during 11 visits (totalling 175 days) during the 20th-century?

The ‘Little White House’ was originally constructed to serve as a first officer’s quarters, before being converted into a family dwelling during the early 20th-century. Today, the historic buildings are now a museum which you can visit for a fee.

Truth be told, for those who are unfamiliar with driving in North America, the easiest way to get to Key West from Miami is by bus. We booked this bus tour , which takes around 3-4 hours each way and allows for six hours plus of exploration time on the island. We were lucky with the traffic and so actually ended up enjoying six and a half hours in Key West.

The bus had air conditioning and was (mostly) as comfortable as a long bus ride can be! Once in Key West itself, you can easily pack in all the sights and main attractions within the space of half a day, provided you purchase a trolley ticket or the Conch mini road train pass and prioritise what you see ahead of time.

We personally went on a rum distillery tour (included in the price of the Trolley Ticket), saw Ernest Hemingway’s House, meandered through Mallory Square, and made it to the most Southerly Point of Mainland USA.

While the Trolley ticket covers more of the island and includes a hop-on-hop-off function, the Conch train is slightly cheaper. Book your Key West Trolley tickets in advance here or your Conch train tour tickets in advance here .

Miami to Key West Road Trip by car

Check this price comparison website to discover the best deals for car rentals!

Of course, if you’re looking for a self-guided itinerary and wish to stop at several of the other keys along the way, then you’ll likely want to rent a car. However, you should note that parking in both Miami and Key West is pretty expensive.

With this being said, embarking on a self-guided road trip of the Keys (check out our best road trip tips) will allow you to enjoy other islands at your own pace, rather than just having to spy them while passing by. Highlights and some of the best things to do between Miami and Key West include:

Though many people mistakenly believe that Key Biscayne (a small island just off the coast of South Beach Miami) is one of the Keys, this is simply not the case. Instead, the closest of the Florida Keys to Miami is that of Key Largo. Characterised by its glittering sea, Key Largo was even immortalised for all eternity by a song from the Beach Boys and a book feature by Hemingway.

The city of Marathon is actually set across thirteen islands (or ‘Keys’ as they’re known in Florida). You may well not know this, but Florida is home to one of the largest coral reefs in the world, third to only the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Marathon is at the very heart of this reef system and is teeming with restaurants and fun outdoor activities for all ages!

Just as impressive as it sounds, the impossibly long Seven Mile Bridge is the longest of all the 42 bridges that interconnect the many islands which form the Florida Keys.

As you can imagine, there’s no better feeling than driving along this stunning stretch in a convertible, not to mention that this highway has been used as the backdrop in countless films and commercials!

For those with a little more time to spare, and who wish to travel at a slower pace, there’s plenty of delights to explore in Key West over the course of a long weekend. If you are in Miami before, be sure to check out our suggestions for how to spend 3 days in Miami .

Thanks to its rise to popularity as a result of several notable figures making their home on the island during the 20th-century (President Truman even created his own little White House, from which he ran the USA) , there are plenty of accommodation options on the island. Check the best Key West accommodation rates and prices here.

Otherwise, choosing to stay overnight is a great way to experience the local nightlife and enjoy every activity at a much slower pace. Though you can see the main sights during a day excursion from Miami, there’s no denying that taking the time to enjoy a local beer or relax on the beach.

With this being said, it should be noted that though the sand has to be imported as there are no natural beaches thanks to the coral reef!, though relaxing on the beach is still never a bad idea! Not to mention that you can enjoy both cultural and sports-based activities should you select to stay longer than a mere six hours.

You should know before you go that the day is incredibly long and so you’ll want to get an early night the night before, though, of course, you can always sleep on the bus! Bus tours leave from Miami Beach at 7 am and so you’ll need to be at Lincoln Road Mall by at least 6:45 AM so as to check-in for your bus.

Next, thanks to Key West’s location 250 km south of Miami, the weather is much hotter than the Floridian city! As such, a cover-up, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreens is an absolute must.

Next, though you may not consider a bus or road train tour usually, the extreme heat and humidity mean that you’ll likely walk much slower than usual and so getting the trolley will ensure that you actually get to see everything!

You’ll also want to carry around plenty of water and ask to fill up your water bottle each time you have the chance to (i.e. after you’ve eaten a meal in a café etc). 

Finally, the best time to visit Key West is between March and May when the weather is at its best (i.e. it’s before all of the rain and the heat of August) and after the crowds of the winter, meaning that prices are generally lower.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Your Florida Keys Vacation

Fly in, rent a car, and island hop along the Overseas Highway to your perfect retreat with one of our gorgeous Florida Keys vacation packages. Explore laid-back island life with a Key Largo vacation package that delivers you to crystal clear waters over coral reefs for dream diving and snorkeling. Or head to the creative heart of the Florida Keys with a Key West Florida vacation package and order up a slice of Key Lime pie at Aunt Sally’s. There are deals on low-cost flights and budget car rental as well as your pick of waterfront hotels, beach resorts, and cute villas—how will you kick back and relax?

The Latest Florida Keys Vacation Packages

1 Hotel South Beach

Reviewed on Apr 24, 2024

Elita Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 26, 2024

Henrosa Hotel

Reviewed on Apr 25, 2024

Bentley Hotel South Beach

Reviewed on Apr 27, 2024

Mayfair House Hotel & Garden

Reviewed on Apr 23, 2024

Where to stay in Florida Keys

Key West Historic District

Old Town Key West boasts a rich history with 2485 historic buildings, and is home to popular attractions like Ernest Hemingway House and Mallory Square. Enjoy the lively atmosphere in the central business district.

Old Town Key West

Old Town, the historic heart of Key West, boasts a central business district and numerous tourist attractions. Explore the Key West Aquarium, Ernest Hemingway House, Mallory Square, and more in this vibrant area.

Though New Town might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Smathers Beach and Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden.

Downtown Key West

If you're spending some time in Downtown Key West, Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Truman Annex

Mixed-use redevelopment featuring classic conch style homes, high-end condos, a hotel, parks, marina, and museums, including the historic Little White House. Enjoy retail and commercial spaces within the community.

Florida Keys Beach Vacation Packages

Make your next trip all about sun and fun by adding one of our Beach Hotels in Florida Keys to your vacation package. Whether you want to sprawl out on Smathers Beach in Key West , Sombrero Beach in Marathon or Calusa Beach in Big Pine Key , you’ll find a stay to suit your style. Drink in views of white sand and palm trees at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel and Resort in Marathon. With a private beach, three pools and putting greens, you can do everything or nothing at all at this upscale option. Planning a beach vacation to the Florida Keys with the kids? Islander Resort in Islamorada features a private beach, children’s pool and recreational activities like biking and snorkeling.

If you want to stay on the beach without spending a fortune, use our handy search filters to find ocean view properties, and then choose how much you want to spend per night. You’ll find budget-friendly options like The Pelican Key Largo Cottages in Key Largo , which offers free kayaks, free WiFi and barbecue and picnic areas. With the money you save, why not add some activities to your Florida Keys vacation package? A Key Largo snorkeling tour is a favorite!

Romantic Vacation Packages in Florida Keys

Besides being a beach lover’s paradise, the Florida Keys is an ideal place to celebrate saying “I do.” Gaze longingly at our Florida Keys Romantic Vacation Packages to find deals that are as irresistible as your sweetheart. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa - A Noble House Resort on Little Torch Key is perfect for a honeymoon vacation to the Florida Keys. Take a boat to this 4.5-star retreat set on a private island and enjoy beach massages, jetted hot tubs and romantic alfresco dinners.

The 5-star Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton also invites you to turn the honeymoon romance up a notch (or two) during your vacation to the Florida Keys. Rooms with a private balcony or terrace offer the intimacy you’ll crave as newlyweds. Wake up to ocean views and indulge in a romantic “toes in the sand” dinner under a starry Key West sky. How about some romantic activities? Add a Key West photo shoot to your vacation package and make long-lasting memories together.

Where to Stay in Florida Keys

Beaches, water sports and wildlife plus superb dining and cultural attractions make Florida Keys one of the most sought-after destinations in Florida. Pack your swimsuit and book a Florida Keys vacation package to one of this tropical archipelago’s top areas:

• Key Largo : Excellent diving and snorkeling, water sports activities and wildlife encounters are the start of the appeal of Key Largo.
• Islamorada : Famous for its sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing, let this island reel you in! Art galleries, white-sand beaches and stunning parks are also on the itinerary.
• Marathon : The midway point of the Florida Keys, Marathon is known for its great public beaches, boating, fishing and seafood restaurants.
• Big Pine Key : Slow the pace down and get back to nature on this serene island. Snorkeling, marine life and turquoise waters are calling.
• Key West : Stay here to visit historical landmarks and family-friendly museums. Spectacular sunsets and a vibrant nightlife help make it a great choice for your vacation to Florida Keys.

Top Things to Do

Get a taste of Floridian fare, go alligator spotting or just roll out a beach towel and chill … There’s plenty to do during your vacation to the Florida Keys. Try these top attractions and experiences on for size:

• Family-Friendly : Kids will love spotting alligators on an Everglades airboat tour and birds and marine life at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park . A Key West Conch Tour Train is another family must-do.
• Water Sports : Take the plunge on a Morning Key West Reef Snorkel & Catamaran Sail . A Mangroves and Manatees - Guided Kayak Eco Tour and a Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour are more wonderful ways to hit the water.
• History & Culture : History buffs won’t want to miss a visit to Ernest Hemingway House and Museum and Harry S. Truman Little White House . Next stop? Make it Dry Tortugas National Park .
• Food & Drink : Say cheers on a Key West Craft Cocktail Crawl or combine culture and cuisine on a Key West Southernmost Food and Cultural Walking Tour .
• Nature : Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and Everglades National Park are must-do’s.

Check out our guide on Things to Do in Florida Keys for more inspiration. You’ll find a wide range of exciting day trips and experiences to include in your Florida Keys vacation package

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Reviewed on Apr 22, 2024

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in florida keys, duval street.

Along one of the southernmost streets in the continental U.S., enjoy a lively area filled with shops, pubs, restaurants and lots of sidewalk acts and vendors.

Everglades National Park

This sprawling wetland park holds a seemingly endless supply of wildlife habitats and enthralling ecosystems.

One of the first free-range zoos in the United States is home to animals, exhibits, amusement rides and a strong focus on education and conservation.

What to do in Florida Keys

Morning reef snorkel with unlimited mimosas & breakfast, sunset dinner cruise with unlimited open bar, other vacations you might like.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Florida (FL) » 15 Best Day Trips from Key West

15 Best Day Trips from Key West

Florida’s most famous key has long been a popular holiday destination, among both visitors from across the pond and Americans in search of a relaxing spot.

The island city has a lot to offer despite its small size; it has some of the best snorkelling in the US right off shore, as well as plentiful water sport options for the adventurous spirits.

Once the home of Hemingway, there are also many interesting cultural attractions available – with the six-toed cats of Hemingway’s Home and Museum a clear highlight.

There’s also a buzzing strip along Duval Street, with plentiful bars and restaurants to keep visitors entertained at a new spot every night.

The picturesque conch houses along the waterfront form a great background for a relaxed boulevard stroll.

With all this on offer, you may still get itchy feet and fancy a trip further afield, so here are 15 of the best day trips from Key West.

It’s hardly possible to spend time in the sunshine state without at least a short trip to Miami – its glamorous poster child.

Skyscrapers crowd the shore, with a stretch of golden sand lining the front.

It’s got the best party atmosphere in Florida and a jam-packed center filled with restaurants and bars, while the option to hang out front and kick back on a sun lounger is always a tempting alternative.

It’s a bit of a trek from Key West, but well worth the effort for a guaranteed fun day – or crazy night – out.

2. Fort Lauderdale

Key West isn’t known for its beaches but Fort Lauderdale certainly is, and that’s just one of the appeals of this day trip.

Water-based activities are the clear winner here, with options on offer including gondola rides along the canal, amphibious tours, and a host of boat trips away from the harbour.

If you would rather stay dry, there’s plenty to keep you entertained on land, not least the excellent shopping district.

There’s also Millionaire’s Row houses and yachts to be ogled at, and a historic district to stroll through.

You definitely won’t be bored.

3. Fort Jefferson & Dry Tortugas National Park

A sure highlight of any Key West trip is a day spent in the spectacular Dry Tortugas National Park, with the unrivalled snorkelling on offer.

Hop on a high-speed ferry and travel the seventy miles to the park – you’ll get lunch included on the trip.

Azure water and clean white sand make the perfect backdrop for wildlife spotting – just make sure you remember your sun screen.

Once your fingers are wrinkled from too much time spent in the water, dry off for a tour of the historic Fort Jefferson, which is an intriguing site in itself.

4. Bahia Honda State Park

For an unusual state park visit, Bahia Honda is a great option.

Located at the end of the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, it’s right on the beach with the Historic Overseas Railroad crumbling away above it – leaving you with a sense of times past as you stroll along the sand.

Head up onto the railroad bridge for some stunning vistas of the sea, which surely make it a contender for the most beautiful spot along the Florida Keys.

There’s yet more snorkelling on offer if you head over to the National Marine Sanctuary and Looe Key, if you’ve not yet had your fill.

5. Offshore water sports trip

Boat trips abound from Key West – enclosed by water as it is – and these can make for some great family-friendly day trip options.

One of the most popular is an adventure boating trip, in which you step aboard a catamaran for an activity filled day at sea.

Snorkelling provides the first stopping off point – no surprises there – but after that you can head out to another spot for some exciting water exploration via jet ski, parasail and kayak.

The kids will love the inflatable adventure theme park tethered out in the water, often saved for last.

Food is usually included, and if you’re lucky, the drinks are unlimited at the end of the day.

Some suggested tours :

• Key West Double Dip: 2-Stop Reef Snorkeling Trip
• Key West: Ultimate Watersports Adventure Tour
• Key West: Parasailing Flights

6. Ramrod Key

There are so many more keys than just Key West.

At Ramrod Key you can have a perfectly tranquil day with some relaxed entertainment, eating excellent fresh seafood fare and taking part in some slightly more chilled out activities.

Miniature Golf is a great choice for this.

The course at Mile Marker 27 has 18 holes and elaborately constructed obstacles, and is a great way to keep the kids occupied.

Once you’ve finished the round, hopefully without too many arguments, head out on a drive in search of some seafood.

You won’t have to look far, that’s for sure.

Scallops, lobster tail, grouper – the options are almost unlimited, and of course, they’ll be freshly caught.

7. Little Palm Island

If you’re feeling the need for a little luxury in your life, Little Palm Island is the place for you.

This private island resort is just five acres in size – leaving you feeling like kings and queens in a tiny kingdom – and it has a path running its full diameter.

Spend some time with your significant other dining on the luxury fare, perhaps with a glass of sparkling champagne to accompany it, looking out across the water.

To get here it’s just a brief ferry ride, departing every half hour from Little Torch Key at Mile Marker 28.

8. Turtle Hospital

For animal lovers, a visit to the Turtle Hospital at Mile Marker 48 is a must-do.

It’s an educational centre, so visitors can learn about the process of rescuing ill or injured sea turtles, nursing them back to health, and eventually releasing them back into their natural habitat.

Tours depart every hour, in which visitors can learn more about rehabilitation and get the chance to view the area in which the work is carried out.

9. Fishing Charter

If adventure sports aren’t your thing, another type of boating day trip option is available – hiring out a fishing charter for the day.

Group tours are a much more budget-friendly option than private charters, and still give you that sense of excitement.

Serving the dual purpose of day-time entertainment and night-time dining, the boats from Key West are perfectly set up to make life easy for visitors, while allowing them the autonomy to take charge of their own catch.

You can even take your spoils to a local restaurant to have it served up to you for dinner.

10. Everglades national park

Florida’s Everglades are a unique natural habitat, home to alligators, manatees and dolphins – a real melange that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot a Florida panther skulking around.

There are lots of options here for exploring, from hiking to air boating, but the best views can be had from the 45-foot-high observation tower in Shark Valley.

11. Key Largo

Key Largo has been referred to as the diving capital of the world, and if that’s not enough to tempt a visit, then perhaps the famous beach bar at Alabama Jack’s will be more up your alley.

Hang out among the locals and grab a platter of fritters and an ice-cold beer to while away the afternoon.

If you do decide to check out the water options around, head over to the Pennekamp Coral Reef Park, east of the Key.

If you feel like venturing further afield and having a real adventure, it might surprise you to learn that Cuba’s capital is within reach of Key West.

It’s a pricey option, but a short flight and you could tick a real bucket list day trip off the list.

Spend the day exploring a whole other culture, wandering the charmingly picturesque streets and snapping the inevitable pictures of those adorably old-fashioned cars trundling around.

Seek out some Cuban cigars, sip on Havana Club rum, and arrive back at the Key in time for dinner.

13. Islamorada

Feeding the fish might sound like a bit of a tame thing to spend your day doing, but you should definitely think again when it comes to feeding the wild tarpon in Islamorada.

Buckets of bait are on sale around the docks, so grab some and get ready for a real experience, as the massive fish loom out of the water to take the food from your hand.

They do have teeth, but it won’t hurt – though they may make you jump.

These monsters can grow up to eight-feet long and as heavy as 200 pounds.

14. Marathon Key

For those who don’t feel like venturing too far from home, Marathon Key is a chilled option for a mild change of scenery from Key West.

Simply spend the day kicking back and hanging out on the water, grab a few beers, and watch the sun set over the sea.

There are some great resorts, restaurants, and bars around to perk up the day.

And best of all, Key West is only a short hop away, so you can be relaxed about the time you’re spending there.

15. Key Biscayne

Sitting 20-miles out in the Straits, Key Biscayne is the biggest must-visit for keen fishermen and women, with an incredible range of catches on offer.

There are some excellent tours available, as fishing is the lifeblood of the community.

If you fancy the chance to catch anything from sailfish to marlin, swordfish to mahi-mahi, this trip will be the one for you.

All the necessary equipment is available to hire.

15 Best Day Trips from Key West:

• Fort Lauderdale
• Fort Jefferson & Dry Tortugas National Park
• Bahia Honda State Park
• Offshore water sports trip
• Little Palm Island
• Turtle Hospital
• Fishing Charter
• Everglades national park
• Marathon Key
• Key Biscayne

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• Going to Marco Island
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Key West Express Ferry to Paradise

Chill out - relax - enjoy - explore.

Our jet powered catamarans whisk you away to Key West from either Fort Myers Beach or seasonally from Marco Island.  THE Vacation Spot of Poets, Pirates, Presidents & Partygoers. 

Get your camera ready and soak in the vibrant arts and entertainment of Duval Street, experience world-renowned deep-sea fishing or SCUBA diving, and don't miss the awe-inspiring daily Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square!

For more information about planning your next trip to Key West and what to expect onboard the Key West Express simply TAP:

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We offer departures from two convenient Southwest Florida locations; Fort Myers Beach (year round) and Marco Island (seasonally) to Key West, Southernmost Point of the United States.

Boarding & Departure Times

• Ft. Myers Beach to Key West :    Boarding begins at 7:00AM. Boarding required no later than 7:30AM. (8:00AM departure)
• Marco Island to Key West :           Boarding begins at 7:00AM. Boarding required no later than 7:30AM. (8:00AM departure)
• Key West to Ft. Myers Beach :    Boarding begins at 5:00PM. Boarding required no later than 5:30PM. (6:00PM departure)
• Key West to Marco Island :           Boarding begins at 4:00PM. Boarding required no later than 4:30PM. (5:00PM departure)

Schedules and times are subject to change. Travel time and actual time on Island varies depending on weather & sea conditions

however, plan on approximately 3.5 hours between ports.  

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 100 Grinnell Street  Key West, FL 33040

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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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Reader's Digest

Your Guide to a Florida Keys Road Trip: Key Largo to Key West

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Your road trip guide to the Florida Keys

One of the best state road trips in America has to be the sun-kissed drive from Key Largo to Key West in the Florida Keys. This road, known as the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, takes you through a 125-mile island chain that begins just south of Miami. It hopscotches over 42 bridges and five islands, and has turquoise waters stretching in every direction into the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and Gulf of Mexico.

So if you're looking for the perfect Atlantic Coast road trip or cheap beach vacation , look no further than this road trip guide from Key Largo to Key West. And if you'd rather travel from Key West to Key Largo, rest easy—the route works either way. There are shuttles that run from Key Largo to Key West, but keep in mind, you'd be missing out on all the fun in between.

By the way, once you embark on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, you'll notice that many sites along the way use mile markers (MM) in their address. We use those mile marker points in this story to help you navigate the drive.

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Mile marker: 108–90

The first of the Florida Keys you'll hit after driving about an hour south from Miami en route from Key Largo to Key West is, well, Key Largo. Often referred to as the Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo includes one must-see stop: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (MM 102.5), the first underwater preserve in the United States.

Experienced and novice snorkelers and SCUBA divers will be enthralled by the teeming marine life that lives just below the water's surface, like parrot fish, barracudas and sea turtles. More experienced divers enjoy exploring the USS Spiegel Grove, one of the largest ships ever intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef where pretty fish can thrive.

Back on dry land, travelers can wander nearly six miles of trails at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, home to more than 80 species of plants and animals. You can also peruse the work of local artists at myriad galleries.

Best beach: Cannon Beach, found within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, has shallow waters that are perfect for wading. You may even spot cannons and anchors on the beach that remain from a 1715 Spanish shipwreck.

Where to eat: Dig into the catch of the day at The Fish House, Key Largo Conch House or Snook's Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar, some of the best traditional restaurants in the area. If you'd rather turf than surf, check out Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill.

Where to stay: If you can't get enough of the underwater world, stay at Jules' Undersea Lodge , the world's first underwater hotel. If you'd rather keep dry, try the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo .

Mile marker: 90–63

Next up en route from Key Largo to Key West is the fisherman's paradise known as Islamorada. Considered the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, it's where backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing got their start. Countless seasoned boat captains are ready for hire to take you out to catch the wahoo, marlin, mahi-mahi and tuna that swim in these waters.

There's an even quirkier way to interact with fish here: hand-feeding the tarpon off the docks of Robbie's Marina (MM 77.5). Since 1976, countless Keys visitors have stopped to feed them, and more than 100 kinds of fish gather at the docks for their daily snacks. Feeding the fishies there is so popular, it's been named the No. 1 activity in all the Florida Keys.

Islamorada is also a terrific spot to kitesurf, stand-up paddleboard, go for a hike or take a bicycle ride. Stop by the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, where injured or displaced birdies now make their homes. Or visit the History of Diving Museum, which boasts one of the world's largest collections of diving helmets.

Best beach: Anne's Beach is popular with families (and dogs) because of its shallow waters and lack of waves. Take a walk along the boardwalk or enjoy a picnic at one of the covered tables.

Where to eat: For a quintessential casual Florida Keys meal, go to the Hungry Tarpon. If you want more elegant fare, make reservations at Chef Michael's for creatively inspired local dishes.

Where to stay: When it's time to lay your head for the night, check in to one of the new oceanfront suites at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , or your own cottage at The Moorings Village & Spa .

Mile marker: 63–40

Marathon is the island chain's top boating destination—and for good reason. The area boasts nearly 2,400 boat slips and plenty of facilities to accommodate sailors passing through. But you don't need your own boat to enjoy Marathon and its waters.

For a truly different experience, hop on over to Cruisin' Tikis and have a floating tiki bar adventure. Sunset, mangrove and harbor cruises are all available, as is a swim-stop cruise for a chance to jump into the water.

While you're here, you should also visit Pigeon Key, an island that is accessible by boat, trolley or walking the 2.2-mile Old Seven Mile Bridge. It has a museum to explore, either on a guided tour or on your own. The Bridge is open for walking, running, bicycling, rollerblading and, of course, watching the killer sunrises and sunsets.

Best beach: Sombrero Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in the Florida Keys—not to mention one of the best beaches in Florida . And it's not just popular with humans; sea turtles nest here between April and October.

Where to eat: For any meal, stop by Castaway, which has been serving guests for more than 70 years. Or make a night of it at Hide Away Café, which has an extensive wine list.

Where to stay: The Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club is set on the waterfront and gives you a taste of marina life. Lime Tree Bay Resort on Long Key has spacious townhomes for rent.

The Lower Keys

Mile marker: 40–4

After crossing the Old Seven Mile Bridge out of Marathon, you'll find yourself in the Lower Keys, where natural habitats and wildlife refuges thrive. It's no wonder this part of the Florida Keys is known as the Natural Keys. You might even want to consider taking an electric vehicle on this road trip so you don't disturb the animals.

Your best chance to spot a native Key deer, a subspecies of the Virginia white-tailed deer that somehow made its way south, may be in the National Key Deer Refuge, comprised of 9,200 acres stretching from Bahia Honda Key to Sugarloaf Key on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. More than 20 endangered and threatened plant and animal species can be found within the refuge. Take a quiet walk at dusk or dawn for your best chance to glimpse a Key deer, or join a ranger-led tour to learn more about the area.

Aside from all the eco-friendly fun, Stock Island is well worth a stop. Their maritime history goes back generations, and the marina is filled with shrimping and fishing boats. Artists have been flocking to Stock Island, too, and share their works in galleries dotted across the small island.

Best beach: The shallow, clear water and white sand at Calusa Beach make it a locals' favorite. The beach is a perfect spot for snorkeling too.

Where to eat: In addition to the freshest of seafood, Big Pine Rooster serves up ribs and a special-recipe meatloaf. Or sip like the locals at No Name Pub, located on Big Pine Key.

Where to stay: Consider the waterfront Sugarloaf Lodge , stay in an Airstream at Big Pine Key Resort  or pop a tent on one of the reserved campsites at Bahia Honda State Park.

Mile marker: 4–0

You've made it to the end! Closer to Cuba than Miami, Key West is known for its nightly sunset celebrations, party atmosphere and laissez-faire vibe, but it's really so much more.

If you're a writer or bookworm, you'll certainly want to make plans to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where you should keep an eye out for the famous six-toed cats. Then wander through Key West's Bahama Village, a 12-block area of historic homes and restaurants.

Consider a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, about 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, where you'll find some hidden gems . The island, accessible by boat or seaplane, is popular for snorkeling and feeling like you're on your own private island, not to mention touring the Civil War–era fort.

Best beach: Fort Zachary Taylor Beach—or Fort Zach, as locals call it—predates the Civil War and boasts the island's very best sandy stretch.

Where to eat: No visit to Key West is complete without a meal at Blue Heaven, where you can dine with wandering roosters for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Or snag a spot on the tiny balcony at Santiago's Bodega for tapas and flowing wine.

Where to stay: The boutique Gardens Hotel , the adults-only Kimpton Hotels Ridley House  or the new Capitana Key West , to name a few. Wherever you stay, you're sure to find your place in Key West, and it's likely you'll follow so many others' lead and start planning your return visit before you even leave.

Art and history in the Florida Keys

Road-tripping from Key Largo to Key West, it's easy to appreciate all the natural beauty. That said, the Keys aren't just a terrific destination for eco-travelers, but artists and history buffs too.

It's easy for artists to find inspiration throughout the Florida Keys. Fortunately for road-trippers, there are many spots to stop and admire their work. One of the largest artists' communities in the Florida Keys is Stock Island in the Lower Keys, just about three miles from the commercial area of Key West. What was once a shrimping boat marina is now a blend of fishermen and painters, sculptors and other artisans who have created an energetic and supportive community.

For history buffs, in addition to Pigeon Key in Marathon and the Civil War–era Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park, other must-stops in Key West include the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, Harry S. Truman Little White House and the Southernmost Point in the continental United States.

Planning your Florida Keys road trip

Now that you're inspired to hit the road, it's time to start planning. After budgeting for a road trip , your next step is to decide whether you will travel south from Key Largo to Key West, or north from Key West to Key Largo. Or maybe you'll opt for a roundtrip.

If you're starting off in Key Largo, it's important to note that the Florida Keys Overseas Highway begins at the Miami-Dade/Monroe County line. So if you're flying to Florida, Miami International Airport (MIA) is the way to go. If you begin in Key West, the airport (EYW) is on the island.

If you're already driving one of the best road trip cars to get to Florida, you're all set. But if you need a loaner, choose one of the best cars to rent for a road trip . Consider packing these road trip essentials and download some of the best podcasts for road trips to make the miles fly by.

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Protect Your Trip »

21 most romantic getaways in florida.

For couples who love the beach, Florida is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway.

Romantic Getaways in Florida

Courtesy of Marriott Harbor Beach Resort

The Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale provides all the essentials for a romantic getaway in Florida.

From world-renowned beaches bordered by small towns and big cities to island escapes and even all-inclusive resorts , Florida offers a seemingly endless variety of destinations perfect for an escape with your partner. To help you choose your next romantic getaway in Florida, we've rounded up the best of the best.

St. Augustine

• Bungalows Key Largo
• Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
• The Don CeSar

Miami Beach

Sanibel island, fort lauderdale.

• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Henderson Park Inn

Amelia Island

• The Breakers Palm Beach
• JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
• Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
• The Boca Raton Beach Club
• Cheeca Lodge & Spa
• Islamorada Resort Collection
• White Elephant Palm Beach

Courtesy of Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Head to St. Augustine if you and your soul mate appreciate history. Start your visit exploring Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you and your significant other can drink from the mythical spring early settlers believed had anti-aging properties. Then, spend some time at the aptly named Old Jail before visiting the town's famous Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Round out your trip by signing up for one of St. Augustine's spooky ghost tours .

If you and your beau would rather explore at your own pace, plan a leisurely stroll up and down St. George Street. This downtown, pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with old-world structures that house boutique shops, eateries and art galleries, including local favorites like Whetstone Chocolates and the Spanish Bakery & Café. Later, you'll have the chance to fall in love all over again on a romantic sunset cruise , amid a horse-drawn carriage ride or after climbing to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse.

Where to stay: After a day of sightseeing, share a bottle of wine and gourmet international cuisine at lovebird-approved restaurants like Collage and Michael's before retreating to one of several enchanting properties located within the town center. The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens boasts impeccable service, beautiful grounds, and well-appointed rooms and suites, which feature charming details like fireplaces, coquina walls and rain showers; verandas are also offered in select suites.

Meanwhile, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa , an Autograph Collection property, appeals to couples in search of old-world charm, spacious accommodations and an exclusive atmosphere (thanks in part to the pool cabanas and private beach club).

Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo

Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo

Located on the sun-kissed island of Key Largo, around 70 miles south of Miami, Bungalows Key Largo appeals to couples in search of an adults-only, all-inclusive escape . One of few all-inclusive resorts in Florida, the resort offers luxuries spanning an in-town courtesy car to complimentary valet parking, along with amenities such as free cruiser bikes and daily yoga sessions. While here, go for a dip in one of two outdoor pools, relax on 1,000 feet of private beach, or get out on the water in one of the resort's kayaks or paddleboards. For an additional cost, lovebirds can even pamper themselves with decadent treatments like a bamboo massage or mineral bath at the resort's on-site spa.

For dinner, enjoy coastal Mexican cuisine with your beau underneath a bevy of palm trees at the beachfront Sea Señor restaurant, then grab a cocktail under the Sunset Tiki Bar's thatched roof. When you're ready to bed down, you'll get to kick back in an exclusive bungalow that comes with a pillow-top mattress, rain shower and private veranda with a soaking tub. All bungalows feature garden or ocean views, but for a separate sitting area with a sofa bed, opt for the King Bungalow. For additional romantic perks, Bungalows Key Largo offers vacation packages for special occasions ranging from honeymoons and babymoons to engagement and elopement celebrations. With the popular "Romance Package," couples will receive extras like chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of sparkling wine and rose petals upon arrival.

Address: 99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa: Little Torch Key

Courtesy of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Twosomes who crave peace and quiet will love visiting Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , a Noble House property. Located roughly 25 miles northeast of Key West on Little Torch Key, this adults-only property is solely accessible by seaplane or boat. Inside all of the British West Indies-inspired bungalow suites, visitors will discover details like vaulted ceilings, private decks and indoor-outdoor showers. Dial up the romance even further by adding on a turndown package that includes perks like a bottle of Champagne, a drawn bath for two and chocolate-covered strawberries. But while the resort is certainly laden with luxury, what makes Little Palm Island's suites ideal for couples is what they lack: Guests won't find TVs or telephones inside the accommodations, an intentional move by the resort to help travelers disconnect from everyday stress.

When you're ready to venture outside your digs, you can arrange off-site fishing excursions, scuba diving outings and more through the concierge or take advantage of the resort's countless amenities. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including couples massages and an aromatherapy bath, while the beach is the place to go for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. The outdoor pool also features front-row views of the ocean, lounge chairs, and a bar that serves tropical cocktails and casual bites. For more substantial meals showcasing fresh seafood, grab a bite to eat in the resort's dining room. Enhance the mood even further by arranging a private dinner on the beach at sunset.

Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, FL 33042

The Don CeSar: St. Pete Beach

Courtesy of The Don CeSar

Opened in the late 1920s as a tribute to real estate scion Thomas Rowe's lost love, The Don CeSar regularly welcomes vacationing couples to St. Pete Beach, a community just west of St. Petersburg . Upon entering the "Pink Palace," you and your sweetheart will feel as if you've stepped back in time thanks to the property's old-Florida details, such as retro tile floors, wicker furnishings and palm leaf print. This Roaring '20s vibe is especially apparent in the lobby bar, which plays live jazz music and serves a selection of sophisticated cocktails and small plates. For a more romantic setting, grab a sweet treat at the ice cream parlor before enjoying a sunset, or cuddle by one of The Rowe Bar's outdoor fire pits. Maritana, the main restaurant, is the place to go if your ideal date night involves dressing up and savoring gourmet seafood.

Later, you can go for a dip in one of two heated outdoor pools, pamper yourselves at the full-service spa or borrow loaner bicycles to check out nearby attractions like Fort De Soto Park, a 1,136-acre park that sits a little more than 5 miles south of the property. When it's time to bed down, you and your partner will enjoy charming digs decorated with blush-pink tones and beds dressed in plush linens. Some previous guests said basic rooms are small, so for more elbow room, reserve one of the hotel's penthouses, whose two-story layouts come with kitchenettes and furnished balconies.

Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

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For a dose of art and culture in a chic atmosphere, travel to bustling Miami Beach . In this ritzy seaside community just east of Miami, you'll discover miles of gorgeous sand and boulevards lined with upscale shops. Begin your vacation sunbathing at Lummus Park, or head north to Haulover Park for some fun in the sun sans clothing. If you and your partner would rather get out on the water than gaze at it from the shore, you can sign up for a private sailing charter ; take to the skies on a parasailing trip ; or rent water sports equipment like paddleboards, Jet Skis and powerboats through a reputable outfitter like Miami Tours & Water Adventures.

After soaking up some rays, get a dose of contemporary art at The Bass – a top Miami-area museum – then explore the lush Miami Beach Botanical Garden or admire the incredible structures that constitute the Art Deco Historic District on a guided tour. If your stomachs start to grumble, sit down for an Italian-inspired meal in Casa Tua's garden; the tropical plants, hanging lanterns and candles will help set the mood. Another top dining option involves savoring plates of salmon tartare, wagyu beef gyoza or truffle risotto at the rooftop restaurant Juvia.

Where to stay: In the evening, hang your hats at Fontainebleau Miami Beach , one of the best hotels in the city. Past guests praised the attentive staff and clean accommodations (which include amenities like iMac computers and minibars) but said it was the property's on-site facilities that set it apart from the rest. Duos can swim in one of 11 pools, lounge on the beach and enjoy a luxurious spa treatment, among other activities.

Few Florida destinations are as serene and laid-back as Sanibel Island , which continues to make a remarkable recovery following damages sustained from Hurricane Ian in 2022. Situated about 25 miles southwest of Fort Myers on Florida's Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island appeals to couples seeking rest and relaxation. While there are no shortage of fun activities – such as shopping along Periwinkle Way or bird-watching at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge – lovebirds will likely spend the bulk of their time at Sanibel Island's beautiful beaches. Turner Beach and Blind Pass Beach are especially popular for shelling, while the shoreline by the Sanibel Island Lighthouse is an excellent place to spot wild dolphins.

Where to stay: Local accommodations here run the gamut from charming cottages and inns to beachfront resorts and hotels. Couples who prefer boutique-style properties will love staying at Island Inn , which features an outdoor pool, two tennis courts, a restaurant and 500-plus feet of pristine shoreline.

Take your partner to Fort Lauderdale if having a mix of things to see and do is just as important as sticking to a budget. Spend some time lounging on the beach – Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach earn rave reviews from visitors for their crystal-clear waters, clean sand, and proximity to restaurants and hotels. You may also want to prioritize Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city where couples can rent tandem kayaks and pedal boats. Outside the park, you'll find countless other ways to keep yourselves occupied, whether you're exploring the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District on a bike tour or paddleboarding along Fort Lauderdale's famous waterways.

Once you've worked up an appetite, head to traveler-approved eateries like Kaluz Restaurant for fresh seafood, premium cuts of meat, and comfort classics like burgers and flatbreads. Diners also loved Steak 954 and Casablanca Cafe, which serves up specialties such as baked escargot. Meanwhile, couples seeking an enchanting ambiance can opt for an exclusive gondola dinner cruise along the city's New River.

Where to stay: Check in to the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort , where you and your partner can lounge by the pool, enjoy a couples massage at the spa and go for a stroll on the beach at sunset. For a romantic dinner, make reservations at the hotel's signature restaurant 3030 Ocean, which specializes in fresh seafood and oceanfront views.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Lake Buena Vista

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Reserve a room at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa if you and your significant other are kids at heart. Unlike other properties on the Walt Disney World Resort grounds, this hotel – situated less than 25 miles southwest of central Orlando – offers an opulent setting made for couples. While you and your partner will undoubtedly want to take advantage of the Grand Floridian's easy access to Magic Kingdom, which is only one stop away on Disney's monorail, the hotel's Victorian-style architecture and upscale amenities shouldn't be overlooked. Inside the grandiose lobby, sweethearts can forget about life's stresses while listening to live piano music. What's more, the hotel's two zero-entry pools provide a quiet atmosphere ideal for adults. And if you're feeling nostalgic, you can participate in property activities like making s'mores by a fire pit or watching movies beneath the stars.

Following a day of relaxing or Orlando theme park hopping, get dressed up for a romantic evening on-site. You can start the night toasting to your love at the Enchanted Rose, an elegant lounge with four areas inspired by "Beauty and the Beast," including an outdoor patio and a library. Then, treat yourselves to dinner at Cítricos. Featuring decor inspired by the film "Mary Poppins Returns," this upscale restaurant serves mouthwatering Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. To explore Orlando's culinary offerings outside of the hotel, guests can reserve a table at traveler-approved restaurants Kres Chophouse or Capa. After filling up on gourmet fare, retreat to your guest room or suite. You can upgrade to an Outer Building suite with a direct view of Cinderella Castle, or choose a club-level room for extras like health club access and admission to a lounge with complimentary refreshments.

Address: 4401 Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Henderson Park Inn: Destin

You may not immediately think of Destin when planning a romantic getaway in Florida, but this quiet town on the Florida Panhandle makes a perfect escape for twosomes. In addition to offering ample outdoor activities, such as fishing and sunset cruises , this laid-back town overlooking the Gulf of Mexico is where you'll find the Henderson Park Inn . At this adults-only, all-inclusive Florida hotel, you and your sweetheart will have access to all kinds of amenities, including loaner bicycles, daily happy hour beverages and the use of a fitness center. You can also check out the hotel's sister property – Henderson Beach Resort – to lounge by the upper-deck pool or unwind at the spa.

When hunger starts to set in, make your way to the Henderson Park Inn's Beach Walk Café to savor delectable seafood and meat dishes. (Keep in mind, though, that the all-inclusive plan does not cover dinner here.) With the restaurant's "Toes in the Sand" private dining experience, you and your partner can enjoy an intimate sunset dinner on the beach. Once you've finished your meal, retire to one of the hotel's plush rooms or suites. The Presidential Suite offers amenities ranging from a whirlpool tub to a spacious private balcony, while the Studio Suite is the only suite equipped with a kitchenette.

Address: 2700 Scenic Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541

Located less than 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island draws twosomes in search of secluded shores, lush vegetation and ample activities. Spend your visit lounging on the 13 miles of beaches – complete with soft Appalachian quartz sand – and strolling hand in hand beneath Spanish moss-covered oak trees. For a more active getaway, explore the island on a 6-mile bike ride through Fort Clinch State Park before hitting the links at one of Amelia Island's five world-renowned golf courses. In the evening, lovers can head to Peters Point Beach Front Park for a sunset horseback ride along the coast, and round out the night with a romantic dinner for two at traveler-approved restaurants like Le Clos or Salt at the Ritz-Carlton, an AAA Five Diamond award recipient.

Where to stay: For those looking to pamper themselves during their vacation, Amelia Island offers a variety of luxurious hotels. Bed down at The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island for access to a spa with sea-inspired treatments, multiple pools with private cabanas and an oceanfront tennis court; the accommodations here feature romantic touches like terraces with fire tables and plush bathrobes. Or, couples can opt for a stay at Omni Amelia Island Resort , a 1,350-acre property that boasts an adults-only infinity pool, a spa, a steakhouse, and 400-plus guest rooms with ocean-facing balconies or patios.

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The Breakers Palm Beach: Palm Beach

This colossal South Florida property – which has been a fixture in Palm Beach since 1896 and sits less than 2 miles from downtown West Palm Beach – features an extravagant appearance that pays homage to Rome's Villa Medici. After driving down the palm-lined driveway at  The Breakers , past manicured lawns and a Florentine Fountain, step into the grandiose lobby to admire beautiful Venetian chandeliers hanging from painted ceilings. Though standard accommodations come outfitted with everything you need for a romantic date night in (think: minibars, plush bathrobes and flat-screen TVs), you may want to upgrade to a Flagler Club room or suite to make your stay extra memorable. These accommodations, which sit on two restricted floors of the resort, come with exclusive perks like chauffeured Tesla car service, a cocktail hour, and access to a private lounge and rooftop terrace.

Outside your room or suite, you'll find numerous amenities made for twosomes. Head to the resort's private beach to enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and surfing; lounge by the adults-only infinity pool; tee off on the state's oldest golf course; or treat yourselves to a personalized couples massage at the spa. When you're ready to eat, sit down for a meal at the property's steakhouse or seafood bar, both of which earn rave reviews from past patrons. Another top dining option is nearby Renato's, an Italian-inspired eatery with an enchanting outdoor courtyard.

Address: 1 S. County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480

JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort: Marco Island

Courtesy of JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

At the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in southwest Florida, you and your significant other will instantly feel at ease while lounging on the resort's 3-mile-long private beach or challenging each other to a game of tennis on the outdoor courts. The resort also houses a 24,000-square-foot spa, where you can unwind in the steam room or soothe aching muscles during a couples massage. Should you crave a Caribbean-inspired cocktail or bite to eat, head to the on-site Quinn's on the Beach – in the evenings you can witness both a gorgeous sunset and fire dancers putting on an incredible performance.

Most accommodations here offer balconies that face the Gulf, but if you don't mind splurging for newer digs and additional privacy, previous visitors suggest booking a Paradise by Sirene room or suite. Located on the top four floors of a private tower that only permits guests ages 21 and older, these accommodations include extras like access to an adults-only rooftop pool, daily breakfast for two and concierge services in their nightly rates. Guests can also enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Tesoro, that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Address: 400 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island, FL 34145

Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach: Sunny Isles Beach

Courtesy of Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach

Feel worlds away from busy Miami Beach without sacrificing proximity to its top attractions by staying at the serene Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach . Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from its perch in Sunny Isles Beach, a town situated about 10 miles north of South Beach, this award-winning property offers all kinds of relaxation-focused amenities. Guests can arrange a treatment in the ESPA-affiliated spa's Royal Spa Suite, equipped with a two-person rainforest shower and a private wraparound balcony. Then, reserve a cabana for additional privacy and pampering while enjoying the adults-only pool, or sink your toes in the sand at the 400-foot-long beach. To satiate your appetite, surprise your beau with a picnic or private dinner on the beach. A highly regarded Italian restaurant with charming terraces and an excellent selection of wines is also located on-site.

Past guests praised the hotel's kind and attentive staff, and many said the resort's smaller size added to its tranquil atmosphere. Standard rooms are spacious at 600 square feet and feature everything from Jacuzzi tubs to minibars to private balconies. Meanwhile, suites offer even more square footage and additions like dining chairs and separate living rooms. Enhance your stay by booking the resort's "Ultimate Spa Package for Two," which covers an oceanfront room or suite, four spa treatments, a welcome amenity, and a spa lunch for you and your partner, among other perks.

Address: 17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160

A romantic getaway to Naples is all about spending time outside while also enjoying the finer things in life. In this luxe coastal town on Florida's Gulf Coast, you'll discover uncrowded beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and an abundance of high-end shops interspersed between alfresco dining and boutique art galleries. Stroll hand in hand along a favorite beach, or venture approximately 30 miles northwest of town to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where you can admire verdant vegetation and spot alligators, otters and more. If you'd rather surround yourself with water views and sunsets, you'll have your pick of beautiful beaches, including Vanderbilt Beach Park and Clam Pass Park.

Balance your time in nature with some retail therapy. Downtown's Fifth Avenue South is where you'll find a variety of locally owned art galleries, clothing boutiques and specialty shops. Later, satisfy your appetite at one of the best restaurants in Naples ; top romantic eatery options include BALEEN, Campiello's or Bleu Provence with its extensive wine collection.

Where to stay: Because Naples offers a ritzier vibe than most beach destinations in Florida, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for accommodations here. Those who love to golf should seek out a room or suite at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón , which features two Greg Norman-designed courses at its famous Tiburón Golf Club, plus an outdoor pool and restaurant that overlook the links. For lodging closer to the water, choose the centrally located Inn on Fifth . Situated a few blocks east of the beach on Fifth Avenue South, this property offers accommodations with Juliet balconies or terraces, a spa, and a rooftop pool.

The Boca Raton Beach Club: Boca Raton

Courtesy of The Boca Raton Beach Club

Couples who want to spoil themselves while on vacation should consider a room or suite at The Boca Raton Beach Club , part of the larger Boca Raton resort. Nestled on a private peninsula in the Palm Beaches resort town of Boca Raton, just north of South Inlet Park, this luxurious property aims to please with its plethora of perks. Inside the modern accommodations, twosomes will find minibars and floor-to-ceiling windows alongside marble bathrooms equipped with rainfall showers and soaking tubs. Select upgraded rooms and suites also come outfitted with lanais, sun decks or balconies that provide phenomenal ocean views.

Duos interested in getting some vitamin D may want to spend the bulk of their time swimming and sunbathing at the resort's private beach or three oceanfront pools. For those who need a break from the water, there is an 18-hole championship golf course and 16 tennis courts available to test your athletic skills. In the evening, clink glasses with your sweetheart at the chic Colin Cowie-designed lobby lounge.

Address: 900 S. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33432

Choose charming Vero Beach for a romantic trip away if you and your partner appreciate art and love spending time outside. Situated on Florida's east coast about 80 miles north of West Palm Beach, this idyllic town offers ample ways to pass the time. Craving some outdoor solitude? Stop by Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, a natural oasis known for its diverse bird population and excellent stargazing opportunities. If you'd rather stay within town limits, grab a pair of paddleboards or kayaks from Orchid Outfitters and head to Round Island Riverside Park. In this quiet park by the Indian River, you can paddle past wild manatees (taking care not to disturb them) or admire them from the 400-foot-long boardwalk; you'll also find beach access across the street in Round Island Oceanside Park. Meanwhile, couples seeking a dose of culture can check out nearly 900 pieces on display at the Vero Beach Museum of Art or McKee Botanical Garden's impressive collection of sculptures and native plants.

Where to stay: After a leisurely day of exploring town, split a bottle of wine and Florida-inspired bites like conch fritters at The Tides – or watch the sun dip below the ocean's surface while savoring fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat and more at Ocean Grill. Both restaurants sit within walking distance of the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa and Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa , two beachfront hotels made for couples. The Kimpton property features tropical accommodations, as well as a spa and an outdoor pool surrounded by swaying palm trees. Meanwhile, Costa d'Este offers sunrise yoga classes, water sports equipment rentals, and ocean-facing rooms and suites.

Laurence Norah | Courtesy of Florida Keys News Bureau

Key West attracts couples seeking dreamy accommodations set amid a laid-back island atmosphere. Look for lodging at the well-appointed Ocean Key Resort & Spa , where every guest room comes with a personal balcony and whirlpool tub, or opt for a charming personal cottage at Sunset Key Cottages . Located on a private island and only reachable by boat, this enchanting property features luxe amenities like fully equipped kitchens and separate living rooms. Here, couples can relax at the resort's serene spa during the day and, in the evening, dine at the award-winning beachfront restaurant Latitudes. Recent diners complimented the terrific service and delicious menu but said the view was what really made their experience unforgettable.

When you're not lounging around your resort, spy a six-toed cat at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, watch the sun go down from Mallory Square or grab a drink with your beau along bustling Duval Street. Plus, thanks to its abundant marine life and colorful coral reefs, Key West is a perfect place to snorkel or scuba dive. If you're looking to up the romance factor even further, take an exhilarating seaplane tour with your sweetheart to Dry Tortugas National Park, which sits roughly 70 miles west of Key West and is known best for its 19th-century fort and cobalt-blue waters.

From stunning beaches to historic estates, couples will find plenty to see and do in this southern Florida locale. Explore nearby Lovers Key State Park on a guided ecotour, or plan your visit for winter to spot wild manatees at Manatee Park. For an unforgettable Fort Myers date night, board the Murder Mystery Dinner Train, an interactive show where lovebirds can put their sleuthing skills to the test while savoring delectable meat dishes and sipping on specialty cocktails. Round out your romantic getaway to Fort Myers with a chocolate-making class at Norman Love Confections, where you and your other half can learn how to create decadent sweets like truffles and fudge. When your stomach starts to rumble, check out romantic restaurants like Bayfront Bistro & Bar and The Veranda, where couples can fill up on specialties like veal piccata and Chilean sea bass.

Where to stay: After spending the day reconnecting with your sweetie, couples can retire to upscale digs at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa , a lovebird-approved property facing the Caloosahatchee River. Or, book your stay at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina , a quiet beachfront retreat that offers exclusive amenities such as a full-service marina, a zero-entry pool and a relaxing spa.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa: Islamorada

Courtesy of Cheeca Lodge & Spa

If you and your sweetie like to keep busy while on vacation, book a room at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , one of the best resorts in the Florida Keys . This tropical paradise offers myriad ways for couples to spend their romantic getaway. Work on your swing at the resort's nine-hole golf course, challenge your partner to a volleyball tournament on the beach, cast a line from the property's 525-foot-long pier or get out on the water in a clear-bottomed kayak. Later, you can give your aching muscles a break by taking advantage of the resort's Xbox arcade, extensive book collection and game room, which features classics like air hockey, pool and ping-pong.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa is also home to three heated swimming pools, more than 1,000 feet of white sand beach and seven spa treatment rooms. Plus, with two outdoor bars and three top-notch restaurants serving everything from sushi to artisanal pizza, foodie couples will rejoice come dinnertime. When you're ready to hit the hay, you'll be treated to accommodations that feature either resort, lagoon or ocean views and come equipped with screened-in or open-air balconies, plush bedding and rain showers. While many travelers raved over the resort's beautiful property and well-appointed rooms, others lamented that the beach can sometimes get overrun with seaweed, so consider elsewhere if you plan on spending the majority of your vacation lounging on the beach.

Address: 81801 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

Islamorada Resort Collection: Islamorada

Courtesy of Islamorada Resorts Collection

Perfect for couples seeking seclusion in the Florida Keys, The Islamorada Resorts Collection comprises four hotels: Amara Cay Resort , Pelican Cove Resort & Marina , Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina and La Siesta Resort & Villas . No matter which accommodations you choose, you'll enjoy access to the amenities at all four hotels – including 55 boat slips, eight restaurants, two fitness centers, complimentary beachside yoga, daily scheduled events and water sports ranging from jet skiing to fishing charters. There's also a lagoon-style pool at Amara Cay. When and if you decide to leave the property, you'll enjoy its proximity to local attractions like the History of Diving Museum and the arts and culture district.

Address: 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

White Elephant Palm Beach: Palm Beach

Chi-Thien Nguyen | Courtesy of Elkus Manfredi Architects

Different from the region's mega beach resorts , the White Elephant Palm Beach feels more like a private residence, with just 19 suites and 13 guest rooms. The aethestic varies from many local hotels, too, with black-and-white-striped awnings, terracotta roof tilings and hardwood floors throughout the property. Upscale accommodations are outfitted with custom-designed furniture including king beds with beautifully upholstered head boards, and two penthouse suites feature terraces overlooking Bradley Park.

Complete with a patio, pool and ice cream cart serving complimentary treats, the lush outdoor courtyard is the ultimate place to relax and recharge at this boutique hotel. And at the brand's signature restaurant, Lola 41, you can enjoy globally inspired cuisine and seafood specialties.

If and when you and partner are ready to dig your toes in the sand, grab your complimentary beach gear and hop on the hotel shuttle (also complimentary), which will transport you to the beach a few blocks away. For other romantic rendezvous in Palm Beach, you can borrow bikes, be chauffeured into town via a BMW 7 Series luxury sedan or book an exclusive excursion aboard a Barton & Gray yacht.

Address: 280 Sunset Ave., Palm Beach, FL 33480

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Florida
• The 12 Best Places for Camping in Florida
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Policies

Tags: Florida Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations , Southeast Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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