Miami to Key West: 1‑Day Road Trip Itinerary

 

Miami to Key West: 1‑Day Road Trip Itinerary 

The Miami to Key West drive is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. Spanning about 160 miles along the scenic Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1), the journey crosses 42 bridges and connects a string of islands that form the Florida Keys. While a leisurely multi-day trip is ideal to soak it all in, a one-day Miami to Key West road trip is very doable—and absolutely unforgettable if planned right.

Here’s a complete 1-day itinerary from Miami to Key West, covering top stops, activities, and tips to make the most of this tropical adventure.

Departure: Leave Miami Early (6:00 AM – 7:00 AM)

Start your journey as early as possible—ideally by 6:00 or 7:00 AM. This gives you time to enjoy the stops without rushing and arrive in Key West with daylight to explore.

• Tip: Fuel up in Miami, bring water and snacks, and queue up your favorite road trip playlist. Cellular signals can be spotty in the Keys.

First Stop: Breakfast in Key Largo (8:00 AM)

Just about 1.5 hours from Miami, Key Largo is the first major Key and a great place for a breakfast stop.

Where to eat:

• Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen: A legendary Keys diner known for hearty breakfasts and kitschy decor.

• Key Largo Conch House: Try the lobster benedict or key lime pancakes.

If you have a little extra time, consider a quick visit to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, famous for its underwater snorkeling tours and glass-bottom boat rides. But for a 1-day trip, a quick photo at the entrance or marina might be enough.

Second Stop: Islamorada for Views & Culture (9:30 AM – 10:15 AM)

Islamorada, located about 30 minutes from Key Largo, offers a mix of art, history, and natural beauty.

Quick attractions:

• Robbie’s of Islamorada: A quirky must-stop to feed giant tarpon fish off the dock.

• History of Diving Museum: If you’re interested in maritime culture and have a few spare minutes, it’s a unique and informative visit.

You can also grab a Cuban coffee or smoothie at Midway Café, a cozy roadside favorite.

Third Stop: Marathon & Seven Mile Bridge (11:00 AM – 11:45 AM)

By late morning, you’ll reach Marathon, located in the heart of the Florida Keys. This is the last “larger” town before you enter the Lower Keys.

Must-see:

• Seven Mile Bridge: Drive slowly over this iconic engineering marvel. Consider stopping at the Old Seven Mile Bridge (pedestrian-friendly) near Bahia Honda Key for photos.

If you have extra time:

• The Turtle Hospital: A great educational stop dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles.

• Sombrero Beach: Quiet and beautiful, ideal for a quick stroll.

Fourth Stop: Lunch at Big Pine Key or Key West (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

You can choose to stop at Big Pine Key for lunch or push straight through to Key West.

Big Pine Key Option:

• No Name Pub: A hidden gem known for great pizza and a fun atmosphere covered in dollar bills.

• Keep your eyes peeled for the endangered Key Deer, unique to this area.

Key West Option:
If you want to reach Key West earlier and save time for sightseeing, head straight to the island and grab lunch there. Popular spots include:

• Blue Heaven: A Key West institution with outdoor dining and live music.

• El Siboney: Authentic Cuban cuisine off the tourist path.

Arrive in Key West: Explore the Island (2:00 PM – 6:30 PM)

After a scenic 4–6 hour drive (with stops), you’ve made it to America’s southernmost city! Now it's time to soak in the quirky charm, colorful streets, and ocean views.

Top things to do in Key West on a short visit:

1. Southernmost Point Buoy

   • Snap a photo at the iconic red-and-yellow concrete buoy that marks the southernmost point in the continental U.S., just 90 miles from Cuba.

2. Duval Street

   • Walk down this bustling main street lined with bars, art galleries, souvenir shops, and historic architecture. Don't miss Sloppy Joe’s or Captain Tony’s Saloon.

3. Mallory Square & Sunset Celebration (arrive by 6:30 PM)

   • This is a daily ritual where locals and tourists gather to watch the sun dip into the Gulf of Mexico. Expect live music, street performers, and food vendors. It's a must-see Key West experience.

4. Optional Add-On Activities (time permitting):

   • Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Tour the home of the famous author and see the six-toed cats.

   • Key West Lighthouse: Climb to the top for panoramic island views.

   • Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: For a quick dip in the ocean or a walk through Civil War-era fortifications.

Dinner in Key West (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Before you head back or settle in for the night, enjoy a delicious dinner.

Great dinner spots:

• Latitudes: For a romantic beachfront dining experience (reservations required).

• Santiago’s Bodega: Known for creative tapas and cozy ambiance.

• Conch Republic Seafood Company: A lively harbor-side spot with fresh seafood.

Return to Miami or Stay Overnight?

By now, it will be getting late. Driving back to Miami the same night is possible but not recommended, especially if you're tired—it’s a 3.5 to 4-hour drive in the dark. If possible, book a hotel in Key West or one of the nearby Lower Keys.

If you must return:

• Plan to leave no later than 8:30 PM.

• Swap drivers if possible.

• Stop for coffee or a snack halfway (Marathon is a good mid-point).

Road Trip Tips

• Rental car: If you’re not using your own, rent a comfortable, fuel-efficient car. Convertible or Jeep adds flair.

• Navigation: Google Maps or Waze works well, but download offline maps just in case.

• Packing list: Sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, portable charger, reusable water bottle.

• Photography: Bring a camera or phone with enough memory; the scenery is stunning.

Final Thoughts

The Miami to Key West road trip is a journey like no other—bridging the mainland U.S. to the tropics with a backdrop of turquoise waters, palm trees, and island vibes. While a one-day itinerary offers only a taste of the Keys’ magic, it’s still packed with memories and photo ops.

Whether you're feeding tarpon in Islamorada, crossing the Seven Mile Bridge, or catching the sunset at Mallory Square, this whirlwind road trip is the kind of Florida adventure that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

So fill up your tank, cue up Jimmy Buffett, and hit the road—paradise awaits.