Are you looking for the best stops on your Miami to Key West drive? Well, you’re in luck! This guide has all of the best stops for Miami to Key West road trips.
The Miami to Key West drive is one of the most scenic drives in Florida – and there are so many stops to make! While the highlights of Miami, the Everglades, and Key West are must-sees, there are also lesser-known hidden gems, like the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, that are worth a stop.
There are so many amazing places to see on the Miami to Key West drive – which ones will you decide to visit?
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!
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Why Road Trip Between Miami And Key West?
The Miami to Key West Drive is absolutely stunning. There are tons of entertaining stops, and the drive itself is lined with brilliant blue beaches and gorgeous green trees. Basically, it’s the ideal Florida road trip.
Plus, you’ll get to see so much of Florida at once. Florida is filled with places that are worth a visit from the theme parks of Orlando to the hidden gems of Florida’s panhandle. This Miami to Key West drive covers most of the best places to see in South Florida.
Here are some tips on driving in Florida to reduce some stress!
What Is The Distance From Miami To Key West?
The shortest distance from Miami to Key West is 166 miles. Depending on the number of stops you choose to make and how far these stops are from the original route, your drive could be a bit longer.
As an example, if you choose to stop at all of the stops listed below, your Miami to Key West drive will become quite a bit longer. Rather than 166 miles, your Key West road trip will become nearly 200 miles!
How Long Should You Take On Your Key West Road Trip?
While you could in theory do the Miami to Key West Drive in just four hours one way, we recommend taking your time to really experience all of the stops that this drive has to offer. If you try to complete the whole drive in a day, you’ll end up rushing through everything, and it won’t be very enjoyable.
Instead, we recommend taking 3 to 5 days to do this Key West road trip. If you’re really planning on diving to all of the stops, you could spend 7 days or more enjoying this amazing drive to Key West from Miami.
No matter how you schedule your Florida Keys itinerary, you will have a great time!
Best Time Of Year To Drive Miami To Key West
As for picking the best time of year for your Miami to Key West drive, you’ll want to avoid Florida’s hurricane season, which is from June to November. In other words, the best time to tackle this Miami to Key West road trip is during winter or spring.
While you definitely can do the Miami to Key West drive during hurricane season, it’s a little easier for your plans to get upended. So, for the sake of flexibility, we recommend tackling this Miami to the Keys drive not during hurricane season, especially if you’re coming from out of state.
20 Best Stops On Your Miami To Key West Drive
Downtown Miami
As you begin your drive from Miami to Key West, you might as well explore what Miami has to offer. While you can easily spend an entire weekend in Miami, you can condense it to just the main sites or the sites that spark your interest.
For beach lovers, be sure to soak up the sun in South Beach and maybe head to Espanola Way for some music and food. For culture lovers, peruse the popular Miami art district and immerse yourself in Cuban American culture in Little Havana. This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Miami!
Book Here: Miami: City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands
Where To Stay In Downtown Miami:
Private Condo: Check Rates On VRBO
Coral Castle Museum
The Coral Castle Museum situated in Homestead, Florida, is quite a sight to see. Some compare it to a sculpture garden, while others think it looks like more of a castle. The real beauty of the Coral Castle Museum is the story of how it was built.
This one-of-a-kind structure was built over the course of nearly thirty years by a man named Edward Leedskalin. At barely 100 pounds and 5-feet tall, many have questioned how he moved these large chunks of limestone to build the Coral Castle Museum. As a matter of fact, the project seems so impossible that it has been compared to the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge!
Where To Stay Near Homestead:
Private Condo: Check Rates On VRBO
Homestead-Miami Speedway
Are you a fan of NASCAR? Is there a race coming up that you’d like to see? Then set up some time on your Miami to Key West drive to spend a day at the Homestead-Miami Speedway.
Home to huge races like the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR Infinity Series, the Homestead-Miami Speedway almost always has something going on. Snatch up some tickets and watch as your favorite drivers race around the track!
If there aren’t any events, you can still check out the gift shop and take a tour of the track.
Everglades National Park
As one of the best national parks in Florida, the Everglades National Park is a must-do stop while driving to Key West. Situated in Southern Florida, the Everglades isn’t even a detour on your Miami to Key West drive!
The Everglades National Park is known for its nature and wildlife. As a matter of fact, one of the most popular things to do at this national park is taking a wildlife tour. If you’re lucky, you might see everything from alligators to Florida panthers to dolphins!
Book Here: Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show
Where To Stay Near Everglades National Park:
Everglades Chokoloskee: Check Rates on VRBO
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Situated on the famous island of Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park holds the title of the first undersea park in the country. And honestly, it makes sense that this Florida state park was the first one, because the coral reefs in this area are simply so beautiful.
Since John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is an undersea park, you’ll have to head into the water to get the full experience. While kayaking and canoeing are popular options, you’ll get a much better view of the sea life below the surface while scuba diving or snorkeling.
Or, if you’d like to stay dry but still get a peek underwater, consider taking a glass-bottom boat tour. This is a fun thing to do when visiting the Florida Keys from Miami.
Key Largo
While John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the highlight of Key Largo, there are other things to do in Key Largo that are worth your time as well. As a matter of fact, as the first of the Florida Keys that most visitors choose to stop at, it’s almost as iconic as Key West!
As with many of the Florida Keys, the things to do in Key Largo revolve around the water and the sun. Dive to the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck, do a little stand-up paddle boarding, or simply take in one of Florida’s stunning sunsets. This is truly home to some of the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys!
You can’t miss out on this stop when planning your Key West road trip itinerary.
Where To Stay In Key Largo:
Private Bay Front Home: Check Rates On VRBO
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen is one of the best restaurants in Key Largo. Whether it is time for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the menu here is full of delicious American and seafood options.
This restaurant has been around since 1976 and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With a motto like “Eat Well, Laugh Often, Live Long,” you know this place has a cozy and homey atmosphere.
For dessert, don’t forget to order a slice of their famous Key lime pie! You can’t miss out on this sweet treat while in the Florida Keys because it is a staple here. There is also a Key lime freeze that is perfect on a hot day.
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is another of the best state parks in the Florida Keys, especially if you love natural history.
The main feature of this park is the intricate, fossilized coral reef. Simply admire the crazy patterns and wonderful geology as you stroll through the park and look for wildlife.
After taking a nature walk, stop by the visitor’s center to learn about the quarry in the park and how the rocks dug from it contributed to the railroad.
Islamorada
Islamorada is one of the cutest small beach towns in Florida. With its beachfront establishments and pristine white sand, it’s hard to pass up an opportunity to stop at this beautiful island. While Islamorada is only seven miles long, it’s packed with things to do.
Make sure to check out some of the Best Islamorada Restaurants for your trip!
With over 500 species of fish, it’s a great place to try your hand at fishing. And the Theater of the Sea is a fantastic spot to get up close to some marine animals, like sea lions and dolphins. There are truly so many things to do in Islamorada!
Where To Stay In Islamorada
Serenity By The Sea: Check Rates On VRBO
Morada Way Arts District
Islamorada is also home to the Morada Way Arts District. This small area is filled with everything art-related from sculpture galleries to art studios.
But by far the most exciting event in the Morada Way Arts District is the monthly Art Walk. On the third Thursday of each month, the local artists and musicians come out to display their work and just have a good time – and you can join in on the fun too!
Robbie’s Marina (Mile Marker 77)
One of the quirkiest stops on the Miami to the Florida Keys drive is Robbie’s Marina. While there, you can feed a few of the hundred tarpons that gather in the area. But these five-foot-long fish weren’t always grazing the surface of the marine for something to eat.
Once upon a time, the owners of Robbie’s Marina saw a tarpon that had its jaw ripped open. Robbie decided to help the poor fish – who he decided to name Scarface – by stitching it up and hand-feeding it until it was better. When Robbie let Scarface back out into the wild, he just kept coming back for more food – and he brought his friends. Now, Robbie’s Marina is filled with friendly tarpon.
Dolphin Research Center
The Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key rescues injured dolphins and provides a home for them if they can’t return to the wild. Consequently, it is also a wonderful place for children and adults alike to learn about dolphins.
While at the Dolphin Research Center, watch the dolphins play together, learn all about these playful sea creatures during educational presentations, and maybe even donate to this non-profit so they can continue their great work.
Turtle Hospital (Mile Marker 48.5)
But dolphins aren’t the only sea creatures in need of help and rehabilitation in the Florida Keys. Turtles need help too! While on your Miami to Key West drive, consider stopping at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon.
The Turtle Hospital helps to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured sea turtles. And you can support the cause while also getting up close to these endangered sea creatures by booking a tour. But be sure to book a tour in advance, because they fill up very quickly!
This tour is one of the ways to ensure you see turtles on your Florida Keys road trip. This is also one of the best places to stop in the Florida Keys to support the local wildlife since the money spent here helps the turtles.
If you love Marathon, make sure to check out some of our other favorite things to do in the Middle Keys!
Seven Mile Bridge
The Miami to Key West drive is one of the most scenic drives in all of Florida, and a huge reason for that is the Seven Mile Bridge. This stunning bridge connects many of Florida’s most underrated islands, including Bahia Honda Key and Big Pine Key. It actually starts at Knight’s Key and winds its way all the way to Duck Key.
Basically, as you make your way across the Seven Mile Bridge, simply enjoy the unparalleled views of the turquoise waters, leafy mangrove trees, and tucked-away fishing piers.
Bahia Honda State Park
When people visit the Florida Keys, they often think that they’re going to find some of the best beaches in the world. But these same people often visit just the most famous beaches in the Florida Keys, like Key Largo and Key West, which have beaches that are good but not fantastic. Instead, beachgoers should head to Bahia Honda State Park on Bahia Honda Key for some of the best beaches in the world.
Calusa Beach is presented as being the most beautiful beach on the island, and it’s honestly hard to argue with that, considering the bright white sand and brilliant blue waters. This is truly one of the Best Beaches In The Florida Keys and you must check it out!
There’s also Loggerhead Beach and the Old Bahia Honda Bridge, both of which are worth a visit. This park is one of the best things to do between Miami and Key West!
Make sure to check out some of our other favorite things to do in the Lower Keys in addition to Bahia Honda!
Where To Stay Near Bahia Honda State Park:
Nader’s Vacation Home: Check Rates On VRBO
National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center
While most people know that Florida is filled with alligators, snakes, and all sorts of other dangerous creatures, only a few people know about the Florida Key deer.
These dog-sized deer are an endangered species and can only be spotted in the lower Florida Keys. In order to help this species survive, the National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center on Big Pine Key has stepped up.
In addition to helping injured or sick Key deer survive, the National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center also helps 22 other endangered species in the area.
During your visit, you can learn about these amazing creatures and then head into nature to try to get a glimpse of them!
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is by far the hardest place to access on the Miami to Key West drive. While you can access most of the stops simply by driving, you’ll need either a boat or a plane to make your way to Dry Tortugas National Park.
That said, a trip to Dry Tortugas National Park is definitely worth it. Once you get there, you can snorkel and swim, visit the historic Fort Jefferson, and even camp on the island.
As the name implies (“tortugas” means “turtle” in Spanish), you’ll be able to see tons of turtles during your time at Dry Tortugas National Park. In other words, Dry Tortugas has something for everyone, including history buffs, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Key West
As the last of the Florida Keys and the southernmost point in the continental U.S., Key West has made a name for itself. It is by far the most well-known island out of all of the Florida Keys. While there, be sure to stop at the famous “Southernmost Point” buoy, walk along Duval Street, and watch the sun dip below the horizon from Mallory Square.
In addition to all the sun and sand, Key West has a surprising number of historical sites. Stop by the Historic Seaport, climb the Key West Lighthouse, peruse the Harry S. Truman Little White House, or visit the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
There is also a great nightlife here with plenty of things to do in Key West at night! The city is also a great place to celebrate a warm Christmas!
Make sure to check out the best bars and nightlife in Key West!
Where To Stay In Key West:
Old Town Condo: Check Rates on VRBO
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
If you want more ideas of things to do in Key West, you cannot miss out on the Ernest Hemingway Home! Whether you love architecture and literature or just want to pet some cats, this is one of the best attractions the town has to offer.
This Spanish Colonial-style mansion was gifted to Hemingway and his wife in 1931, and they spent the 1930s living there. As you walk the home, you will see many of Hemingway’s personal belongings, historic furnishings, and photos and paintings depicting his life.
The grounds are full of lush gardens and a pool perfect for photos. Inside and out, you will find dozens of cats lounging around. These well cared for cats are the descendants of the six-toed cats Hemingway owned.
Smathers Beach
Smathers Beach is one of the best beaches in Key West and is perfect for relaxing in the sun. With soft, white sand and super clear water, you will feel as if you have stepped into paradise.
Spend time here swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or playing beach volleyball. Get some thrills parasailing or jet skiing across the water.
Since the shore slopes gradually into the ocean, it is ideal for families looking for a safe beach day. You can easily wade far out and enjoy the refreshing water.
Restrooms, picnic tables, shady palm trees, and a concessions stand help to make this a great place to unwind after completing your long road trip from Miami to Key West.
Where To Stay On Your Florida Keys Road Trip
If you’re going to space out your time on your Miami to Key West drive, you’re going to need a few places to stay. Luckily, rental homes and hotels are anywhere and everywhere!
Bayside Cottage Retreat in Miami
This adorable cottage is found in a quiet neighborhood and is a great jumping off point for your time in Miami. It’s close to many parks, cafes, restaurants, and bars.
There is a pretty patio with seating and a hammock. Inside, you will find comfy furniture and beachside vibes. There is a full kitchen for cooking as well.
Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo
Baker’s Cay Resort is both a romantic and family-friendly place to stay in Key Largo. Each room is modern with comfort and nature as the main themes. Every room includes a private balcony too!
Explore the waterfront and the lush hardwood hammock forest and watch the sunset over the ocean. Your meals at one of the restaurants will be unforgettable. In between laps in the pool, sip fruity cocktails.
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.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada
If you stay in Islamorada, the Cheeca Lodge is a beautiful accommodation. With gorgeous tropical landscaping and a large beach, you will be swept into a relaxing paradise.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy here including fishing, a golf course, pools, kids’ programs, a spa, and a fitness center. There are also kayaks and bikes to rent.
The rooms are elegant and feel like home.
The Truman Annex in Key West
When you finally get to the end of your road trip, there are tons of vacation rentals in Key West that are absolutely wonderful. There are a ton of beautiful homes ready to be featured on your Instagram feed. This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Key West!
Get a place with a private pool or a small apartment to save money. You won’t be spending much time there anyway as you explore Key West and all it has to offer.
One great area to stay in Key West is the Truman Annex in Old Town. There are a bunch of cute rental homes here to choose from.
Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel
If you are looking for a great hotel stay in Key West, book a room at the Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel. Found on the Gulf of Mexico, this luxury hotel is seven acres and features a private beach.
There are plenty of tours and rentals available. There is a poolside bar and a hot tube perfect for a soak. Sip your welcome champagne as you admire the views from your private balcony.
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