The Ultimate 3-Day Trip Itinerary
The Florida Keys are a quintessentially American holiday spot with white sand beaches, turquoise oceans, and outdoor pursuits like snorkeling, kayaking, and camping. The Florida Keys are a chain of islands 120 miles off the state’s southern coast. To truly appreciate the beauty of the Florida Keys, a road trip from Miami to the Keys is one of the best things to do in the Sunshine State.
One of the world’s most beautiful drives, it connects more than 600 islands by a series of bridges across the sea. Find out how to organize a trip that takes in all the Keys have to offer, from the unique attractions along the way to the stunning beaches and national parks to the coastal bars and restaurants.
When And How To Drive From Miami To Key West
When beginning the Road Trip by air, either Miami International Airport or Fort Lauderdale Airport is the ideal option. Although Miami International Airport is where most travelers would want to begin their journey, several budget airlines have their flights land in Fort Lauderdale instead. When departing from within the United States, low-cost airlines like Spirit, Frontier, Southwest, and JetBlue are great options for travelers on a tight budget.
Those coming to Miami by car from the northern United States will probably take Route 95. Visitors can rent a car at either airport and get on their way. Travelers pressed for time can often rent a car for just one trip; however, this comes at an extra cost. The rental can be picked up at Miami International Airport and dropped off at Key West International Airport or vice versa. The distance from Miami to Key West in its shortest form is 166 miles. How long it takes to get somewhere depends on how often and far off-course drivers stop.
Although it is possible to travel from Miami to Key West in a little over four hours in each direction, we highly recommend spending at least three days on the road to enjoy the trip entirely. For those wondering when is the best time to take the drive from Miami to Key West, consider that the Keys are one of the sunniest and warmest places in the country, averaging between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. There is no better time than March and May to take a picturesque drive across the Florida Keys when the crowds have dissipated and hotel rates have dropped.
Avoid traveling in August and September, which are the height of hurricane season. Averaging over 90 degrees, July and August are the hottest months in the Florida Keys, and the wettest are June, August, and September.
On Day One, Bask In Miami’s Warm Glow
Flying into this bustling city is the first stop for many tourists making their way to Key West. Miami is home to many world-class attractions, beaches, and eateries. For beach bums, spend some time basking in the rays on South Beach, considered one of the best beaches in the United States is a must. Those looking to beat the Miami heat should head to Lummus Park and relax in the palm-shaded shade of the sea.
The Art Deco District of Miami Beach is as well-known as the beach and is the perfect place for those interested in the arts and culture. Ocean Drive is the epicenter of the Art Deco Historic District, home to more than 800 landmarks. Drop by the Art Deco Museum or the Art Deco Welcome Center to get the whole narrative of the Art Deco movement in Miami Beach. Both of these are in Lummus Park, which is between Ocean Drive and the beach.
Just a few blocks from Ocean Drive is the historic 1920s district of Española Way. A replica of a traditional Spanish village from the Mediterranean inspired this street’s design. Although a day in Miami isn’t enough time to see everything, visitors shouldn’t miss Española Way. Additionally, check out Miami Design District, Midtown Miami’s most posh district and home to numerous museums, trendy shops, and restaurants helmed by A-list chefs.
Visit Key Largo, The First Of The Picturesque Florida Keys, On Day Two
Key Largo is the most well-known Florida Key and is sometimes called the “Dive Capital of the World.” Visitors can find the largest artificial reef in the world there, among many other unique attractions. A 24-hour stay in Key Largo should start with the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, widely considered to be among the city’s top attractions. For visitors to the park, which opened in 1963, a wide variety of options are available, from snorkeling to kayaking or canoeing to boat trips to picnics.
Have fun on the African Queen Canal Cruise as it travels from Marina Del Mar to Port Largo and then into the Atlantic Ocean. The African Queen Cruise became prominent after the 1951 film starring Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart brought it to public attention.
Divers who prefer scuba diving will have a wonderful time exploring the Spiegel Grove wreck. It has a length of two football fields, allowing intrepid divers to experience an incredible journey. Get lost in this colossal shipwreck and marvel at the abundance of fish that have made it their home. While touring the renowned Spiegel Grove, see the hairy corals and observe the barracuda and horse-eye jacks in their natural habitats.
On Day Three, Get To Key West
Key West has become famous as the southernmost point of the United States and the last of the Florida Keys. Take advantage of a whole day in Key West by visiting the Key West Lighthouse and taking in the breathtaking scenery. The 65-foot-tall landmark, initially built in 1825, is still one of the island’s most famous monuments, despite being deactivated.
Then, experience the island’s signature Caribbean ambiance as you travel past Bahama Village’s colonial-style Caribbean homes—including the one that once belonged to literary great Ernest Hemingway. At the Hemingway Home and museum, check out the museum and stroll around the beautiful gardens. Shop for a one-of-a-kind literary memento at the bookstore and gift shop before savoring the tropical cuisine and music of the community.
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is less than a 10-minute walk along Duval Street from the Hemingway Home. One of the most common things to do in Key West with kids is to check out this ecosystem.
