Ultimate Miami to Key West Road Trip Guide

by Kathy Brown | Travel By State, Beaches, Florida

"Enjoy the tropical paradise of Key Largo with lounge chairs lining the sandy beach, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and crystal-clear turquoise water in the background." Bakers Cay Resort

Best Time to Drive

Optimal Months: December to April (winter months)
Ideal Weather: Mild and dry, averaging around 75°F (24°C)

Day 1: Miami to Key Largo Road Trip

Scenic Drive: Miami to Key Largo via Overseas Highway
Highlight: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling
Local Flavor: Lunch at a seafood restaurant and a visit to Florida Keys Brewing Company
Accommodations: Stay at Luxury Baker’s Cay Resort or Budget Hampton Inn Key Largo



White sand beaches covered in sea grass. Broken Bridge in the background surrounded by blue green ocean water.

Day 2: Key Largo to Marathon Road Trip

Landmark: Seven Mile Bridge – a must-see attraction
Beach Day: Visit Bahia Honda State Park for stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters
Accommodations: Consider top-rated resorts like Tranquility Bay Beachfront or Hawks Cay Resort; budget-friendly option – Lime Tree Bay Resort

Day 3: Marathon to Key West Road Trip

Southernmost Point: Drive to Key West, the southernmost point in the continental U.S.
Local Stops: Explore local shops, try the key lime pie, and visit Mile Marker Zero
Tour Tip: Book a local tour for the best Key West experience
Accommodations: Spend the night in Key West, consider The Reach Resort

Day 4: Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park

Must-Do Activity: Take a tour of Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles west of Key West
Highlights: Stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a historic fort
Transport: Ferry or seaplane from Key West (Yankee Freedom III or Key West Seaplane Adventures)
Note: Bring food, water, and supplies, as there are no accommodations or restaurants on Dry Tortugas.

Notable Mile Markers Along the Drive:

MM 107: Key Largo
MM 84.5: Islamorada
MM 63: Marathon
MM 47: Seven Mile Bridge
MM 37: Bahia Honda State Park
MM 30.2: National Key Deer Refuge
MM 0: Key West (Mile Marker Zero)

Travel Tips:

Guide Recommendation: Purchase an inexpensive travel guide on Amazon for details and hidden gems.
Explore More: Check out a full East Coast Florida road trip starting from the Northeastern part of Florida.

Plan an amazing Florida Keys experience with this road trip itinerary. Happy travels!

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