![\"Volkswagen](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Volkswagen-Tiguan-rental-in-Miami-FLon-Turo-1024x576.jpg\")
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The Upper Keys: Key Largo and Islamorada<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Upper Keys, stretching from MM 126 down to around MM 74, are the first islands you\u2019ll hit on the drive south, and they set the tone immediately. Think turquoise water, incredible marine life, and a laid-back island rhythm that only deepens the further you go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the US, protecting over 70 nautical square miles of coral reef, seagrass beds, and mangroves just off Key Largo in the Upper Keys. It\u2019s one of the best places in North America to experience vibrant marine life up close. Most visitors come for the snorkeling tours or glass-bottom boat experiences, which take you out over the reef without needing dive gear. You can also go scuba diving or kayak through peaceful mangrove tunnels. One of the highlights is the famous underwater statue, Christ of the Deep. Boat tours depart directly from the park and are incredibly popular, especially in peak season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Location:<\/strong> MM 102.5, Key Largo<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Snorkeling, marine life, and first-time reef experiences<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tip:<\/strong> Book snorkeling and boat tours in advance \u2014 they sell out in peak season<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/John-Pennekamp-Coral-Reef-State-Park-Key-Largo-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
If your ideal Key Largo date includes paddling through mangrove lagoons, spotting tropical fish together and ending the day sun soaked by the water, John Pennekamp is the move.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Islamorada<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Islamorada, known as the \u201cVillage of Islands,\u201d is one of the most enjoyable stops in the Upper Keys, with a relaxed, slightly more refined vibe than some of the busier destinations further south. It\u2019s considered the sport fishing capital of the world, but even if you\u2019re not casting a line, there\u2019s plenty to love here. An incredibly memorable experience is feeding the massive tarpon at Robbie\u2019s Marina \u2014 a chaotic, photogenic wildlife encounter that\u2019s become a Keys classic. Beyond that, Islamorada has outstanding waterfront dining, from casual raw bars to laid-back tiki bars with outdoor seating. Stick around for sunset and head to the Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar for drinks. It\u2019s one of the best places to watch the sky light up over the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Location:<\/strong> MM 74\u201390, Islamorada<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Don’t miss:<\/strong> Feeding the tarpon at Robbie\u2019s Marina \u2014 arrive early as it gets busy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Sunset drinks, great food, and relaxed island vibes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Islamorada,](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Islamorada-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
From ice cream breaks and quirky souvenir stores to watching massive tarpon splash beside the docks, Islamorada turns a simple road trip stop into an easy family memory.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n The Middle Keys: Marathon and the Seven Mile Bridge<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Middle Keys, centered around Marathon at roughly MM 50, sit at the geographic heart of the island chain and are packed with some of the Keys\u2019 most family-friendly attractions. They\u2019re also home to an iconic stretch of the drive: the breathtaking Seven Mile Bridge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Turtle Hospital, Marathon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Turtle Hospital in Marathon<\/a> is a working sea turtle rehabilitation facility and the only state-certified veterinary hospital for sea turtles in the world. Through guided tours, visitors can learn about the rescue and rehabilitation process, meet resident turtles that can\u2019t be released back into the wild, and see firsthand the care that goes into protecting these incredible animals. It\u2019s one of the most meaningful wildlife encounters in the Middle Keys, and is both educational and genuinely moving. Tours run regularly but are limited in size, so planning ahead is essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Location:<\/strong> MM 48.5, Marathon<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Wildlife encounters, families, and marine life education<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tip:<\/strong> Book tours in advance as they fill up quickly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Dolphin Research Center, Marathon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Dolphin Research Center is a non-profit marine mammal research and education facility focused on conservation and responsible wildlife interaction. Visitors can take part in guided tours, watch educational presentations, and even join structured programs to interact or swim with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. It\u2019s a more ethical, research-led alternative to commercial dolphin encounters, making it especially appealing for thoughtful travelers and families interested in marine life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Location:<\/strong> MM 59, Grassy Key<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Wildlife encounters, families, and ethical marine experiences<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The Seven Mile Bridge<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Seven Mile Bridge is a stretch of the Overseas Highway and a highlight of any Florida Keys road trip. Spanning 6.79 miles, it connects the Middle Keys to the Lower Keys with uninterrupted ocean views in every direction \u2014 it genuinely feels like you\u2019re driving across open water. It\u2019s an impressive engineering feat in Florida and a moment that defines the entire island chain experience. For a slower pace, you can also walk or bike along sections of the historic old bridge that runs parallel, offering a more immersive way to take it all in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Seven](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Seven-Mile-Bridge-Marathon-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
If your Florida Keys trip needs that main character driving shot, rent a convertible on Turo and roll across Seven Mile Bridge while the cameras stay busy the whole way.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n The Lower Keys: Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Lower Keys, stretching from around MM 40 down to MM 9, are the quietest and most untouched part of the island chain. This is where the pace slows right down, with fewer crowds, more wildlife, and a closer connection to the natural beauty of the Keys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bahia Honda State Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bahia Honda State Park<\/a> is widely considered home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida \u2014 a rarity in the Keys, where natural sand beaches are limited. Located in the Lower Keys, it offers soft sand on both the Atlantic and Gulf sides, along with calm, warm waters perfect for swimming. Beyond the beaches, you\u2019ll find nature trails, kayak rentals, snorkeling tours, and excellent birdwatching. The historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge adds a dramatic backdrop and a glimpse into the island chain\u2019s past. It stands out as one of the most scenic and well-rounded Florida state parks, and it\u2019s an essential stop on any Keys road trip. Camping is available, but sites book out months in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Location:<\/strong> MM 37, Big Pine Key<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Entry fee:<\/strong> Paid (small per-vehicle fee)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Beach days, snorkeling, and nature lovers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tip:<\/strong> Arrive early as the parking lot fills up fast on weekends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Bahia](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Bahia-Honda-State-Park-Big-Pine-Key-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
Swap crowded resort days for Bahia Honda State Park where adventurous couples can kayak through clear water, snorkel offshore reefs and end the afternoon stretched out on soft sand together.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n National Key Deer Refuge, Big Pine Key<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The National Key Deer Refuge protects the endangered Key deer \u2014 a miniature subspecies of white-tailed deer found only in the Lower Keys. Standing at just around 30 inches tall, they\u2019re surprisingly small, gentle, and often spotted wandering through their natural habitat on Big Pine Key. The best time for wildlife encounters is early morning or late afternoon, when the deer are most active. While you\u2019re in the area, stop by the nearby No Name Pub \u2014 a quirky, cash-only spot famous for its walls (and ceilings) covered in stapled dollar bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Location:<\/strong> Big Pine Key, MM 30<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Wildlife encounters and nature lovers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Local tip:<\/strong> Key deer are most active at dawn and dusk \u2014 drive slowly on Big Pine Key roads<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Key West: The end of the road<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Key West needs little introduction \u2014 at MM 0, it marks the end of the Overseas Highway and the southernmost city in the continental US. From here on, things feel different: colorful, historic and a little eccentric. Key West is where the road ends and the island spirit takes over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mallory Square and the Sunset Celebration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is one of Key West\u2019s most iconic traditions \u2014 a nightly open-air festival on the Gulf waterfront where locals and visitors gather to watch the sun sink into the horizon. As golden hour hits, the square fills with street performers, artists, and food vendors, creating a lively, slightly chaotic atmosphere that feels uniquely Key West. If you\u2019d prefer something quieter, you can also watch the sunset from the water on a sunset cruise or sunset sail, which offers equally unforgettable views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Location:<\/strong> Mallory Square, Key West (MM 0)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cost:<\/strong> Free<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tip:<\/strong> Arrive 30\u201345 minutes before sunset for a good spot<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Mallory](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Mallory-Square-Key-West-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
Waterfront performers, live music drifting through the air and boats glowing beneath the sunset, Mallory Square is where you grab a drink, join the crowd and let Key West take over your evening.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Duval Street and Old Town Key West<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Duval Street is Key West\u2019s lively main strip made up of a mile-long stretch running from the Gulf to the Atlantic, packed with bars, restaurants, galleries, shops, and historic buildings. It\u2019s the heart of the island\u2019s energy, with iconic stops like Sloppy Joe\u2019s and plenty of spots for a casual drink or a full food tour. Beyond Duval, Old Town is where Key West\u2019s history really comes to life. You\u2019ll find landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Lighthouse, and the Harry S. Truman Little White House all within a few blocks. Don\u2019t miss the Southernmost Point Buoy, the classic photo stop marking the edge of the continental United States. The area is compact, colorful, and incredibly walkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Best for:<\/strong> History, nightlife, and exploring on foot<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tip:<\/strong> Old Town is best explored on foot or by bike \u2014 parking is limited, and traffic is slow<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Ernest](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ernest-Hemingway-Home-and-Museum-Key-West-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
Hidden behind swaying palms and sun faded walls, the Ernest Hemingway Home pulls history buffs into a world of handwritten stories, six toed cats and rooms filled with old Key West character.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n ![\"Southernmost](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Southernmost-Point-Buoy-Key-West-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
Standing at the Southernmost Point Buoy with Cuba just 90 miles away, this iconic Key West landmark is the photo stop that officially marks the end of your Overseas Highway adventure.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n ![\"Key](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Key-West-Lighthouse-Key-West-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
Shadowy staircases, flickering light above Old Town and the silence of Key West after dark, the lighthouse turns a late night friend hang into something straight out of a ghost story.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Dry Tortugas National Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote and pristine national parks in the US, located 70 miles west of Key West and accessible only by boat or seaplane. Surrounded by crystal-clear water, it feels worlds away and absolutely worth the effort to reach. The main attraction is Fort Jefferson, a Civil War-era brick fort set right on the water, alongside some of the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys, with vibrant marine life just offshore. Most visitors arrive via the Yankee Freedom ferry (around 2.5 hours each way), while seaplanes offer a faster but more expensive option. It\u2019s a full-day trip and an unforgettable experience in the Keys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- How to get there:<\/strong> Ferry or seaplane from Key West<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Snorkeling, history, and off-the-beaten-path adventure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tip:<\/strong> Book the ferry months in advance \u2014 it sells out quickly, especially in winter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Dry](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Dry-Tortugas-National-Park-Key-West-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
Snorkel gear drying in the sun, salt in your hair and reef fish flashing beneath impossibly clear water, Dry Tortugas is the kind of national park that completely hijacks your camera roll.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Tip from the author:<\/strong> If you only have one day in Key West, spend the morning exploring Old Town on foot, grab a slice of key lime pie at lunch, and end the day at Mallory Square for the Sunset Celebration. It won’t disappoint.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Things to do in the Florida Keys for families<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Florida Keys are a fantastic family destination, offering hands-on wildlife encounters, calm, swimmable waters, and outdoor experiences that feel a world away from Florida\u2019s theme park crowds. It\u2019s easy, relaxed, and full of moments kids will actually remember.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Turtle Hospital tours, Marathon:<\/strong> A memorable and educational experience in the Keys where the whole family can learn about sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation and meet real patients \u2014 book in advance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Dolphin Research Center, Grassy Key:<\/strong> A thoughtful, research-focused facility offering structured dolphin interaction programs alongside educational presentations about marine life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- John Pennekamp snorkeling, Key Largo:<\/strong> Perfect for families. Younger kids can enjoy glass-bottom boat tours, while older ones can try snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bahia Honda State Park:<\/strong> A dream for beach days, with calm, shallow water for swimming, plus kayaking and easy nature trails to explore.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Feeding the tarpon at Robbie’s Marina, Islamorada:<\/strong> A classic Keys experience \u2014 buy a bucket of fish and hand-feed the giant tarpon crowding the dock (equal parts fun and slightly chaotic).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory:<\/strong> A magical walk-through space filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies \u2014 especially loved by younger kids.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Things to do in the Florida Keys for foodies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Florida Keys are packed with distinctive food cultures in the US; built around fresh-caught seafood, key lime pie, and a string of laid-back tiki bars and waterfront fish houses that feel unique. Eating here is as much about the setting as the food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Key lime pie:<\/strong> The Keys\u2019 most iconic dessert is tangy, creamy, and everywhere. Try it as a classic slice, frozen on a stick dipped in chocolate, or even as a milkshake. Favorites include Kermit\u2019s in Key West and Mrs. Mac\u2019s Kitchen in Key Largo.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keys Fisheries, Marathon:<\/strong> A working fish house and seafood market with a casual raw bar and outdoor seating right on the water. The lobster Reuben is legendary and is messy, rich, and absolutely worth it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hogfish Bar and Grill, Stock Island:<\/strong> A true local institution just outside Key West, known for its fresh-off-the-boat hogfish sandwiches, cold beer, and no-frills waterfront vibe.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Blue Heaven, Key West:<\/strong> One of Key West\u2019s most iconic spots, serving breakfast and brunch in a leafy outdoor courtyard where roosters wander between tables. It\u2019s chaotic in the best way.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sloppy Joe’s Bar, Key West:<\/strong> A Duval Street legend tied to Ernest Hemingway, this is more about the atmosphere than the menu: loud, lively, and a must for soaking up Key West\u2019s history.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sunset tiki bars:<\/strong> Waterfront tiki bars are everywhere in the Keys, and they\u2019re the best place to end the day. Try Lorelei in Islamorada or Sunset Pier in Key West for drinks with unbeatable sunset views.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Duval-Street-Key-West-Florida-1024x576.jpg\")
Palm lined streets, colorful old buildings and music drifting through the warm night air make Duval Street the perfect excuse to wander Old Town with no real plan at all.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Frequently asked questions about the Florida Keys<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How many days do you need in the Florida Keys?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5\u20137 days is ideal to experience the full drive from Key Largo to Key West at a relaxed pace. If you\u2019re short on time, 3\u20134 days is enough to cover the highlights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is the best time of year to visit the Florida Keys?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
December through April offers the best weather in the Florida Keys \u2014 warm, dry, and less humid. Summer is hotter and more humid, with a higher chance of rain and hurricanes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do you need a car to visit the Florida Keys?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Yes, a car is essential in the Keys. The islands are connected by the Overseas Highway, and public transportation is very limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is the Florida Keys most famous for?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Keys are known for their turquoise water, coral reefs, snorkeling and diving, the Overseas Highway road trip, key lime pie, and laid-back island lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is Key West worth visiting?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Absolutely. It\u2019s the most vibrant and unique destination in the Keys, with historic sites, nightlife, great food, and the famous sunset celebrations at Mallory Square.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is the best key lime pie in the Florida Keys?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s highly debated, but Kermit\u2019s Key West Key Lime Shoppe, Blue Heaven in Key West, and Mrs. Mac\u2019s Kitchen in Key Largo are among the most popular picks for key lime pie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How far is it from Miami to Key West?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Miami to Key West is about 165 miles (265 km) and takes roughly 3.5\u20134 hours to drive, depending on traffic and stops along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Explore the Florida Keys with Turo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Florida Keys are made for a road trip \u2014 and the Overseas Highway is one of America\u2019s most iconic drives. Pick up a car on Turo in Miami<\/a> or elsewhere in Florida<\/a> and head south at your own pace, stopping for beaches, seafood, and sunset views whenever the mood strikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Hyundai](\"https:\/\/turo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Hyundai-Sonata-rental-in-Miami-FL-on-Turo-1024x576.jpg\")
From EVs and hybrids to comfortable sedans like the Hyundai Sonata, Turo\u2019s wide selection makes Florida Keys road trips easy while its smooth ride keeps drives from Key Largo to Key West relaxed.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n - Keys Fisheries, Marathon:<\/strong> A working fish house and seafood market with a casual raw bar and outdoor seating right on the water. The lobster Reuben is legendary and is messy, rich, and absolutely worth it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Dolphin Research Center, Grassy Key:<\/strong> A thoughtful, research-focused facility offering structured dolphin interaction programs alongside educational presentations about marine life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Snorkeling, history, and off-the-beaten-path adventure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tip:<\/strong> Old Town is best explored on foot or by bike \u2014 parking is limited, and traffic is slow<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Cost:<\/strong> Free<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Wildlife encounters and nature lovers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Entry fee:<\/strong> Paid (small per-vehicle fee)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Wildlife encounters, families, and ethical marine experiences<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Wildlife encounters, families, and marine life education<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Don’t miss:<\/strong> Feeding the tarpon at Robbie\u2019s Marina \u2014 arrive early as it gets busy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Snorkeling, marine life, and first-time reef experiences<\/li>\n\n\n\n