Miami to Key West. Drive across the ocean on one of America's most iconic highways. 42 bridges, 113 miles of open water, from Miami's skyline to the Southernmost Point of the continental US.
The Florida Keys Overseas Highway is unlike any other road trip in the United States. You are literally driving across the open ocean. For 113 miles, the road hops from island to island over 42 bridges, with nothing but turquoise water stretching to the horizon on both sides.
Starting in Miami, the route takes you through Key Largo and its world-class coral reefs, past Islamorada where giant tarpon leap from the water at your feet, through Marathon with its rescued sea turtles and pristine beaches, across the legendary Seven Mile Bridge, and finally into Key West, a place that feels more like the Caribbean than the continental US.
What makes this route perfect for a weekend getaway is its simplicity and density of experiences. There is only one road, and every stop along it delivers something memorable. You do not need a week. Two days lets you hit every major highlight without rushing, and the short driving distances mean you spend more time in the water than behind the wheel.
2 days, 6 stops, and 113 miles of driving across open ocean.
The only living coral reef in the continental US. Book a glass-bottom boat tour if snorkeling is not your thing. Morning trips have the calmest water and best visibility.
Stop at Robbie's Marina to hand-feed massive tarpon right off the dock. The sport fishing here is world-class. Grab fish tacos and a cold drink at a waterfront spot before moving on.
Visit the Turtle Hospital for a guided tour of rescued sea turtles. Then drive to Bahia Honda State Park, consistently rated one of the best beaches in the US. The water is impossibly clear.
Fresh-catch seafood is king here. Try stone crab claws (in season October through May) and conch fritters at any local spot along the harbor.
The most photographed stretch of the Overseas Highway. Open ocean on both sides with nothing but blue water to the horizon. Pull off at the old bridge remnant on the Marathon side for photos before crossing.
Home to the endangered Key Deer, a miniature subspecies found nowhere else on Earth. Drive slowly through the National Key Deer Refuge. Early morning or late afternoon gives the best chance of spotting them.
Walk Duval Street for the full Key West experience. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and its famous six-toed cats. Hit Mallory Square before sunset for the nightly celebration with street performers and vendors. Stand at the Southernmost Point buoy for the obligatory photo.
Key lime pie is mandatory. For dinner, try fresh yellowtail snapper or lobster at any of the outdoor restaurants on the harbor. Sunset cocktails on a rooftop bar overlooking Mallory Square are hard to beat.
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The Overseas Highway has narrow bridges, limited RV parking, and several single-lane sections. Large vehicles are technically allowed but make the drive stressful. Consider renting a car for this route.
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Things the guidebooks skip. From someone who has actually driven this route.
The Overseas Highway has no shoulder in many sections. If you need to stop, find an official pullout or parking area. Do not stop on bridges.
Several stretches are single-lane in each direction. Be patient behind slower vehicles and only pass where clearly marked.
Wind on bridges can be strong, especially Seven Mile Bridge. Keep both hands on the wheel and reduce speed in gusty conditions.
Hurricane season runs June through November. Monitor weather forecasts closely and know that evacuation from the Keys means one road north.
Hospital access is limited on smaller keys. The closest major trauma center is in Miami. Carry a basic first aid kit.
Flooding can occur during king tides and storms, even outside hurricane season. Check road conditions before departing if rain is forecast.
All-American Road designation, 182 km total length
One of only 31 roads in the US with this status
Highlights: Ocean bridges, coral reefs, tropical islands
Best photography month: March
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