How to Plan a Miami to Key West Photography Road Trip

 How to Plan a Miami to Key West Photography Road Trip

The scenic drive from Miami to Key West isn’t just a journey—it’s a photographer’s dream. Stretching 165 miles across the legendary Overseas Highway (US-1), this road trip offers an unforgettable blend of turquoise waters, palm-lined streets, charming coastal towns, and some of the most photogenic sunsets in the United States.

If you're a travel photographer or simply love capturing stunning landscapes and street scenes, planning a photography road trip from Miami to Key West is a must. Here’s how to do it right, including the best photo stops, tips for shooting, and practical planning advice.

Step 1: Choose the Right Time for the Trip

Timing is everything in photography—and this road trip is no exception.

• Best Season: November to April offers dry, mild weather with lower humidity and clearer skies. Avoid hurricane season (June to November) if possible.

• Best Time of Day to Drive: Start early in the morning to catch golden hour light and beat the midday traffic. Sunset is magical in the Keys, so time your arrival accordingly.

Step 2: Pack Your Photography Essentials

To make the most of your journey, you’ll need a good setup:

• Camera Gear:

  • DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings

  • Wide-angle lens (great for landscapes and seascapes)

  • Telephoto lens (for wildlife or distant islands)

  • Tripod (for sunrise/sunset or long exposure shots)

  • ND and polarizing filters (for water and sky)

  • Extra memory cards and batteries

• Drone (optional): Drone photography is popular in the Florida Keys, especially for capturing the unique bridges and turquoise waters. Be sure to follow FAA regulations and local rules.

• Smartphone Photography: Don’t underestimate your smartphone. Use it for quick social media shots, time-lapse videos, or behind-the-scenes footage.

Step 3: Plan Your Route & Must-Stop Photo Locations

The drive can take 3.5–4 hours without stops, but for a photo tour, you'll want to make it a full day—or even two.

1. Miami (Start Point)

Start your day early in Miami. Grab sunrise shots at:

• South Beach: Iconic lifeguard towers and morning light.

• Wynwood Walls: Vibrant street art scenes.

• Brickell skyline: Best shot from the Rickenbacker Causeway.

2. Key Largo (First Major Key)

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Underwater photography opportunities and serene mangroves.

• Snappers Waterfront Restaurant: Great dockside photo opportunities, especially at sunset if you're spending the night.

3. Islamorada

Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," it also offers:

• Robbie’s Marina: Feed the tarpon and shoot motion shots of jumping fish.

• Theater of the Sea: Dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals.

• Morada Way Arts District: Local art and culture in vibrant murals and galleries.

4. Marathon and the Seven Mile Bridge

One of the most breathtaking stretches of the entire road trip.

• Seven Mile Bridge (Old Bridge): Park and walk for epic bridge shots. Best during sunrise or golden hour.

• Pigeon Key: Accessible via the old bridge (check for open hours), it’s a tiny island full of history and photo ops.

5. Big Pine Key

• National Key Deer Refuge: Spot and photograph the endangered Key deer.

• Blue Hole: Freshwater quarry where you might catch alligators or turtles sunbathing.

6. Key West (Final Destination)

The southernmost point of the continental U.S. offers a rich variety of photo locations:

• Southernmost Point Buoy: Iconic selfie spot—go early to avoid crowds.

• Duval Street: Vibrant nightlife, street performers, and pastel-hued buildings.

• Mallory Square: Famous for sunset celebrations. Expect fire dancers, music, and crowds.

• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Offers both history and beautiful beaches.

• Higgs Beach Pier and White Street Pier: Great for long exposure and drone shots.

Step 4: Build Your Photography Schedule

Even if you're spontaneous, a loose schedule will help you make the most of daylight and golden hours. Here's a sample 2-day plan:

Day 1:

• 7:00 AM – Sunrise at South Beach (Miami)

• 9:00 AM – Drive to Key Largo (stop for breakfast)

• 10:30 AM – Photo walk in Pennekamp State Park

• 12:30 PM – Lunch and quick stop in Islamorada

• 2:30 PM – Seven Mile Bridge and Pigeon Key

• 5:00 PM – Sunset photos at Bahia Honda State Park

• 7:00 PM – Overnight stay in Marathon or Big Pine Key

Day 2:

• 7:00 AM – Morning shoot in Big Pine Key

• 9:00 AM – Head to Key West

• 11:00 AM – Southernmost Point + Historic District

• 2:00 PM – Lunch + beach photos

• 5:30 PM – Set up at Mallory Square for sunset

• 8:00 PM – Capture nightlife and night photography around Duval Street

Step 5: Know the Rules & Stay Respectful

Photographers should always travel responsibly:

• Respect Private Property: Don’t trespass for the perfect shot.

• Be Wildlife Aware: Do not bait or disturb animals, especially protected species like Key deer.

• Drone Laws: Avoid flying near airports (like in Key West) or over crowds. Use apps like B4UFLY for guidance.

Step 6: Where to Stay & Eat

There are many scenic hotels and restaurants that make great photography subjects too.

Stay:

• Boutique hotels in Key West like Casa Marina or The Marquesa.

• Waterfront motels in Marathon or Islamorada.

Eat (with a view):

• Lorelei Restaurant (Islamorada)

• Sunset Pier (Key West)

• Island Fish Co. (Marathon)

Take food breaks as a chance to photograph local seafood platters, tropical drinks, and sunset views from patios.

Bonus Tips

• Golden Hour is King: Plan to be at top locations during early morning or before sunset for softer light.

• Shoot RAW: Gives more flexibility when editing.

• Waterproof Your Gear: Sudden rain or sea spray is common.

• Backup Your Photos: Use cloud storage or a laptop every evening.

• Talk to Locals: They often know off-the-beaten-path gems.

Conclusion

A Miami to Key West photography road trip is more than a vacation—it’s a visual adventure. With the right gear, timing, and a little planning, you’ll return with a portfolio full of vivid landscapes, quirky moments, and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Whether you're chasing sunrises over the Atlantic, capturing tropical wildlife, or snapping the bustle of Old Town Key West, this drive offers something special for every lens. So charge your batteries, clear your memory cards, and hit the road—paradise awaits.