Miami to Key West: Perfect 3‑Day Route

 

Miami to Key West: Perfect 3‑Day Route for an Unforgettable Road Trip

Florida’s Overseas Highway is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. Stretching about 165 miles from the vibrant city of Miami to the island paradise of Key West, this journey combines turquoise waters, tropical islands, and laid-back beach towns into an unforgettable experience. If you’re planning a three-day trip from Miami to Key West, this guide outlines the perfect route, top stops, activities, and travel tips to make the most of your journey.

Day 1: Miami to Marathon – Dive into the Keys

Morning: Depart from Miami

Start your adventure early in the morning from Miami. Whether you’re driving your own car or renting one, make sure to hit the road before 8 AM to avoid traffic and maximize daylight. The drive south begins on U.S. Route 1, which transforms into the famous Overseas Highway once you leave Florida City and enter the Keys.

First Stop: Key Largo (Mile Marker 102)
Your first major stop is Key Largo, just about 1.5 hours from Miami. Known as the "Diving Capital of the World," it’s home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park in the U.S. Take a glass-bottom boat tour or go snorkeling to explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life.

Lunch Recommendation: The Fish House
This locally loved seafood spot offers fresh catches, conch fritters, and tropical drinks—perfect for a midday break.

Next Stop: Islamorada (Mile Marker 82)
Continue your journey with a brief stop in Islamorada, a beautiful village of islands. Visit Robbie’s Marina, where you can hand-feed massive tarpon, or enjoy a quick kayak ride through the mangroves.

Evening Destination: Marathon (Mile Marker 50)
Arrive in Marathon, your resting spot for the night. Marathon is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and great water activities.

Things to Do in Marathon:

• Visit The Turtle Hospital, a rehabilitation center for injured sea turtles.

• Explore Sombrero Beach, a quiet sandy spot perfect for sunset.

• Optionally, head to Pigeon Key via the old Seven Mile Bridge for a historic and scenic walk.

Where to Stay:

• Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort or Isla Bella Beach Resort offer upscale stays with oceanfront views.

Day 2: Marathon to Key West – Scenic Drive and Island Adventures

Morning: Drive the Seven Mile Bridge

Start your morning with a coffee and set out on one of the most breathtaking parts of the Overseas Highway—the Seven Mile Bridge. This engineering marvel gives you the feeling of driving over open ocean, with panoramic views on both sides.

Stop at Bahia Honda State Park (Mile Marker 37)
This park is a hidden gem with some of the best beaches in the Keys. You can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the sandy shores. If you're adventurous, hike up to the old Bahia Honda Rail Bridge for stunning photo ops.

Arrive in Key West (Mile Marker 0)
By afternoon, you’ll arrive at the southernmost point of the continental U.S.—Key West. Check into your hotel and get ready to explore this colorful and quirky island.

Afternoon Activities:

• Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the famed author and meet his six-toed cats.

• Walk down Duval Street, filled with shops, bars, and local art galleries.

• Snap a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy, just 90 miles from Cuba.

Evening: Sunset at Mallory Square
One of the must-do experiences in Key West is the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. Street performers, food vendors, and live music create a carnival-like atmosphere as the sun dips into the Gulf of Mexico.

Dinner Recommendation:

• Blue Heaven – A legendary open-air restaurant with island vibes and mouthwatering Caribbean-inspired dishes.

• Latitudes – For a romantic dinner, take a boat shuttle to this restaurant on Sunset Key.

Where to Stay in Key West:

• Ocean Key Resort & Spa

• The Gardens Hotel

• Or budget-friendly inns like Eden House

Day 3: Explore Key West and Return to Miami

Morning: Water Adventure or Historical Tour

Start your final day with one last dive into island life:

Option 1: Watersports
Join a morning snorkeling or dolphin-watching tour, or try parasailing to enjoy aerial views of the Keys.

Option 2: Historical Exploration
Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, where you can enjoy a mix of Civil War history and a great beach for swimming and snorkeling.

Brunch Spot:

• Bagatelle or Sarabeth’s serve delicious breakfasts and brunches in charming Key West settings.

Midday: Begin Drive Back to Miami
Begin your journey back to Miami in the early afternoon. You can make optional quick stops to stretch your legs, revisit your favorite spots, or grab souvenirs.

Optional Stops:

• Keys Fisheries in Marathon for a quick seafood bite.

• Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary in Tavernier for a peaceful wildlife detour.

Expect the drive back to take about 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.

Travel Tips for the Miami to Key West Road Trip

• Best Time to Go: November to April offers the best weather with lower humidity and less chance of storms.

• Car Rental: If you're flying into Miami, rent a car with good gas mileage and make sure it’s comfortable for long drives.

• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, swimwear, reusable water bottles, flip-flops, and a waterproof phone case.

• Drive Safely: Speed limits are strictly enforced in the Keys. Drive slowly, enjoy the views, and watch for pedestrians and wildlife.

• Gas Up: Fuel up in Key Largo or Marathon; stations are less frequent in the lower Keys.

• Book Ahead: Especially in peak season, hotels and tours in Key West sell out fast.

Conclusion

The Miami to Key West drive is more than just a road trip—it’s a tropical journey that mixes nature, history, adventure, and relaxation. In just three days, you’ll pass coral reefs, white-sand beaches, historic landmarks, and some of the most vibrant coastal communities in Florida. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this route promises postcard-perfect views and island memories that will last a lifetime.

So pack your bags, hit the gas, and let the sea breeze guide you from city life to island time.