posted on October 21, 2025
The Miami to Key West drive takes you on a journey through tropical islands and turquoise waters, all from the comfort of your car. Riding out onto the open ocean, into the sunset with the wind in your hair, the journey is as jaw-dropping as the destination.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or wanting to take your time on your island adventure, this road trip guide has you covered. Packed with practical tips and personalized recommendations, it’s your go-to guide for making the most of your Miami to Key West road trip.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Miami to Key West drive: Overview
- Your road trip map from Miami to Key West
- Top tips for driving from Miami to Key West
- Your stop-by-stop Miami to Key West road trip itinerary
- Top places to stop between Miami and Key West
- Frequently asked questions about the Miami to Key West drive
An overview of the drive from Miami to Key West
- Drive time: 3 hours 30 minutes (direct without stops)
- Drive distance: 166 miles
- Suggested road trip length: 2 to 3 days
- Recommended itinerary:
- Stop 1: Miami to Everglades National Park
- Stop 2: Everglades National Park to Key Largo
- Stop 3: Key Largo to Islamorada
- Stop 4: Islamorada to Marathon Key
- Stop 5: Marathon Key to Big Pine Key
- Stop 6: Big Pine Key to Key West
- Top stops: Marathon and Key Largo
- Gas stations and EV chargers along the drive: Plenty around Miami, though they become scarcer and more expensive deeper into the Keys
- Driving conditions and recommended vehicle: Smooth driving conditions on well-maintained highways. A midsize sedan is an excellent vehicle choice for this road trip.
Distance from Miami to Key West
This road trip guide from Miami to Key West takes approximately 207 miles. There is a more direct route you can follow, which covers around 166 miles, but misses some key spots highlighted in this itinerary.
Miami to Key West drive time
The total drive time for the recommended route is 4 hours and 40 minutes.
When to go from Miami to Key West
The best time to drive from Miami to Key West is during the spring months. Skipping summer means you avoid the peak of Florida’s famed humidity, hurricane season, and high temperatures, but you’ll still get a healthy dose of sun on your tropical expedition. If you plan your journey in May, you’ll avoid the Spring Breakers too, and can enjoy smaller crowds and congestion along the journey.
The best Miami to Key West route
The Overseas Highway, also known as the U.S. Route 1 South, is not only the most direct route to Key West from Miami, but it also surrounds you with stunning scenery as you sail over the open ocean.
The best stop between Miami and Key West
Marathon is a relaxed island city at the heart of the Florida Keys, ideal as a halfway stop between Miami and Key West. It’s famous for Sombrero Beach, the Turtle Hospital, and its proximity to the iconic Seven Mile Bridge.
Key Largo, the first major Key from Miami, is the perfect stop for diving and snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. With turquoise waters and lush mangroves, it’s another amazing stop on your way to Key West.
Your road trip map from Miami to Key West
Top tips for the drive from Miami to Key West
Planning ahead is the key to smooth sailing. Although there are no tolls on the Overseas Highway, you may encounter some tolls as you leave Miami. Be sure to have a SunPass ready to avoid fines or unexpected charges.
Driving conditions: What is the road from Miami to Key West like?
- Gas stations become scarcer and pricier as you head deeper into the Keys. Prepare for this by filling up around Florida City or Key Largo, where prices are more affordable.
- The ocean views are stunning, but wandering eyes could send you overboard. Make sure to keep your eyes on the road when driving. Take the time to pull over if you need time to enjoy the view.
- The Overseas Highway is mostly one lane per direction, so overtaking can be limited. Expect to slow down from time to time, and always keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
- When you’re heading out of Miami, leave early to avoid the morning rush. Weekends, holidays, and late afternoons can also bring heavy traffic, especially around Key Largo and Islamorada.
Recommended type of car for the drive
Picking a comfortable and reliable car turns a long drive into a vacation. If it’s just you and a few friends heading across the water, a mid-size sedan, like a Toyota Corolla, would suit perfectly, guaranteeing comfort the whole way.
If you are road-tripping with the whole family, an SUV is your ideal chariot. Models like the Chevrolet Trax provide plenty of space for everyone and the kitchen sink.
If you want to taste the ocean air, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and other convertibles will allow you to savour every second down the Overseas Highway.
How to stay safe on this road trip
- Make sure to pack all your road trip essentials before heading off. Water, snacks, a charger for your phone, and sunscreen to keep your face, hands, and arms protected are all essentials.
- Although fairly reliable, service can become scarce in the Lower Keys. To be on the safe side, keep a physical map or download one on your phone just in case.
- Stops along the way aren’t just great for sightseeing; they also help prevent fatigue from long stretches of driving. Make sure to take plenty of breaks along the way to stay safe. If you have other licensed drivers joining you for the journey, you can share the drive with them.
The perfect Miami to Key West drive itinerary
Embark on one of America’s most scenic road trips with this itinerary, taking you through sun-soaked islands, turquoise waters, and unforgettable stops along the Overseas Highway.
Stop 1: Miami
- What to do: South Beach, Art Deco District, Everglades Airboat Tour
- Where to stay:
- $: Esme, Miami Beach
- $$: Riu Plaza, Miami Beach
- $$$: The Gates Hotel, South Beach
- Where to eat: Stubborn Seed, Joe’s Stone Crab, Amara at Paraiso
It’s known as Magic City for a reason. Let Miami enchant you with its white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and locally sourced, delicious food. Pre-game your road trip with a glass-bottom boat tour of Biscayne Bay, a stroll through the Art Deco Historic District, and sunset drinks in Brickell.
Stop 2: Everglades National Park
- Drive time: 53 min
- Drive distance: 41.2 mi
- What to do: Everglades City Airboat Tours, Anhinga Trail, Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
- Where to stay:
- $: Hampton Inn & Suites Homestead
- $$: Maria’s Los Cirhuelos
- $$$: Maria’s Farm House
- Where to eat: Flamingo Restaurant, Camellia Street Grill, Island Cafe
In less than an hour, you’ll have left the bustling city of Miami behind for one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Everglades National Park is a vast subtropical wilderness where you can spot alligators, wading birds, and manatees, explore scenic boardwalks like the Anhinga Trail, or glide through mangrove tunnels on a kayak tour.
Stop 3: Key Largo
- Drive time: 1 hr 35 min
- Drive distance: 68.0 mi
- What to do: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Dolphins Plus, Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge
- Where to stay:
- $: Hampton Inn Key Largo
- $$: Kona Kai Resort
- $$$: Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo
- Where to eat: Snook’s Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar, Bayside Grille & Sunset Bar, Hobo’s Cafe
As of this stop, your island adventure has officially begun. Key Largo is known as the diving capital of the world. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, or take a glass-bottom boat tour over the only living coral barrier reef in the U.S.
Stop 4: Islamorada
- Drive time: 24 min
- Drive distance: 17.2 mi
- What to do: Theater of the Sea, Anne’s Beach, Indian Key Historic State Park, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park,
- Where to stay:
- $: The Ocean View Inn
- $$: Chesapeake Beach Resort
- $$$: Bayside Villas by Islander Resort
- Where to eat: Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, Islamorada Brewing Company
Halfway into your road trip, you reach the tropical paradise of Islamorada. Celebrate the milestone by sinking into the soft sand, and let the gentle rhythm of the waves wash away your worries. Later on, indulge in some fresh seafood at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar.
Stop 5: Marathon Key
- Drive time: 39 min
- Drive distance: 30.4 mi
- What to do: Turtle Hospital, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, Coffins Patch Reef, Crane Point Hammock, Sombrero Beach
- Where to stay:
- $: Blackfin Resort and Marina
- $$: Seascape Resort and Marina
- $$$: Tranquility Bay Resort
- Where to eat: Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, Hideaway Café, Island Fish Co.
Marathon Key is a gorgeous tropical city with a heart of gold. It’s home to The Turtle Hospital, a unique rehabilitation center dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured sea turtles back into the wild. Take part in a guided tour, learn about the hospital’s conservation efforts and get a unique look at these beautiful creatures up close.
Stop 6: Big Pine Key
- Drive time: 27 min
- Drive distance: 21.4 mi
- What to do: National Key Deer Refuge, Blue Hole, Looe Key Reef, Big Pine Key Bat Tower
- Where to stay:
- $: Big Pine Key Motel
- $$: Old Wooden Bridge Resort and Marina
- $$$: Barnacle Resort
- Where to eat: No Name Pub, Big Pine Rooster, Florida Keys Cafe
Stroll through the wild beauty of the National Key Deer Refuge or gaze into the still waters of the Blue Hole, where herons glide and alligators lurk beneath the surface. Just offshore, the vibrant coral gardens of Looe Key beckon snorkelers into a hidden, underwater paradise.
Stop 7: Key West
- Drive time: 41 min
- Drive distance: 29.0 mi
- What to do: Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, Southernmost Point Buoy, Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
- Where to stay:
- $: Hilton Garden Inn Key West
- $$: The Capitana Key West
- $$$: Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa
- Where to eat: Blue Heaven, Conch Republic Seafood Company,Santiago’s Bodega
Celebrate the end of your road trip with a bang down at Duval Street. Margaritaville is a must if you’re craving a tropical drink, laid-back island vibes, and classic Jimmy Buffett tunes. Known for its live music at lively bars as well as its natural island beauty, Key West is the perfect grand finale to your journey.
Top places to stop between Miami and Key West
Whether you’re craving natural beauty, local flavor, or family-friendly fun, the drive from Miami to Key West is packed with unforgettable stops and worthy detours.
Top stops for nature lovers
- Miami Beach: A great trip starts with a sunrise stroll along South Beach.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: This remote island park features historic Fort Jefferson, a former U.S. military coastal fortress, surrounded by stunning coral reefs and blue waters.
- John Pennekamp State Park: Dive deep into the blue abyss and you’ll discover more than just aquatic life. Lurking beneath the surface is the famous “Christ of the Abyss” statue, awaiting your discovery.
- Dolphin Research Center: A non-profit facility whose saltwater lagoons are home to dolphins and California sea lions.
- Bahia Honda State Park: Known for some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys, where you can partake in snorkeling, camping, or just staring at the stunning sunsets.
- National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center: A wildlife refuge whose mission is to protect the endangered deer found in the Keys. Enjoy a walk around the nature trails and a chance to spot the deer in the wild.
Top stops for foodies
- Little Havana, Miami: Tuck into Cuban culture. Little Havana is serving up classics like empanadas, pastelitos, and a strong cafecito on Calle Ocho.
- Downtown Miami: Downtown Miami boasts a collection of delicious cuisines, everything from modern fusion to high-end dining.
- Florida Keys Brewing Company: A colorful, artsy microbrewery with tropical craft beers and a gorgeous beer garden to kick back in.
- The Island Fish Company: This waterfront seafood restaurant is known for conch fritters, frozen beverages, and stunning sunset views.
- Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen: A beloved roadside diner serving up classic comfort food, from decadent key lime pie to succulent seafood platters.
Top stops for families
- Turtle Hospital, Marathon: Take a guided tour to learn how injured sea turtles are rescued, rehabilitated, and returned to the ocean.
- Key West Lighthouse: Climb to the top for incredible views of the island or explore the museum to learn some maritime history.
- Rain Barrel Artisan Village: Here you can browse handmade crafts and art from local vendors, then take a selfie with the giant lobster sculpture.
- Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum: Explore the house that was not only the dwelling of the legendary writer, but also is home to around 60 polydactyl cats (cats with six toes).
Frequently asked questions about the Miami to Key West road trip
Is it worth driving from Miami to Key West?
Absolutely! It is not only a convenient way to travel to Key West, it’s also one of the most scenic road trips in the U.S. The Overseas Highway takes you across crystal-clear waters, leading to the vibrant, tropical paradise of Key West.
How many days does it take to travel from Miami to Key West?
You can drive it in a day, which takes under 4 hours non-stop, but 2 to 3 days is ideal to fully enjoy all the stops along the way.
How long is the Miami to Key West road trip?
The road trip from Miami to Key West outlined above takes roughly 4 hours and 40 minutes, and covers approximately 207 miles of stunning scenery.
Can you tackle the Miami to Key West road trip in reverse?
Of course! If you want to do a Key West to Miami road trip, you can simply follow the above itinerary in reverse.
Can I get from Miami to Key West by train or bus?
There’s no direct way to travel from Miami to Key West by rail. FlixBus and Greyhound offer direct bus services to Key West from Miami, which take about 5 to 6 hours.
Can I fly from Miami to Key West?
Yes. Direct flights from Miami to Key West take around 1 hour.
Final word: Planning the Miami to Key West road trip of a lifetime
Whether you’re looking for an exquisite tropical escape or craving a drive through Florida’s stunning scenery, the road trip from Miami to Key West delivers an unforgettable adventure. With turquoise waters on either side and charming island towns to discover along the way, this iconic stretch of highway is more than just a route; it’s the heart of the journey.
So whether you’re diving into coral reefs in Key Largo, savoring seafood in Islamorada, or soaking up the sunset in Key West, take your time and embrace the laid-back vibes. Browse Turo for the perfect Miami rental car, and make this road trip your own.
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Hannah Chadirchi
Hannah is a seasoned traveller who has been flying back and forth across the world since she was just 1 year old, and isn't stopping anytime soon. From carefully curated road trips with her family around the U.S. to jumping on random trains in Europe and keeping her fingers crossed, Hannah is constantly seeking adventure. For her next trip, she'll either be running around Germany, trying to find the country's best Bratwurst and Sauerkraut, or tackling Route 66 with her sister in the States.
