Do you plan on the ultimate road trip through the Florida Keys? Then you want to prepare for it. Such a great area must be explored with a plan and without problems. For that reason, let’s go over some of the things and places that will make the road trip fun and enjoyable.
What should be your route?
To start the ultimate road trip across the Florida Keys, head to Miami and take U.S. Route 1, popularly referred to as the Overseas Highway. This well-traveled 113-mile road offers charming bridges and stunning views of the coastline.
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, the Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon, the quaint town of Islamorada with its quaint shops and water sports, and Key West, with its lively culture and historic sites, are all must-see locations. If you do not stop, traveling takes roughly 4 to 5 hours; nevertheless, allow extra time to enjoy each excursion to the fullest.
Some of the must-see places to check out
You can snorkel and see vibrant coral reefs at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, which is a must-visit during your ultimate road trip through the Florida Keys. Go to Islamorada’s Sea Theater for shows and encounters with marine life. Marvel at Marathon’s Seven Mile Bridge, an engineering feat that offers stunning views of the turquoise waters.
To visit the well-known Southernmost Point Buoy—the southernmost point of the continental United States—is a last stop. Thanks to the natural beauty and charm of the Keys, each stop offers a unique experience.
Outdoor areas to explore
The Florida Keys provide a variety of outstanding outdoor adventures for those who enjoy being outside. Scuba diving and snorkeling are highly recommended; the vibrant coral reefs of Looe Key Reef and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park provide stunning views below the surface. Kayaking through the Everglades mangroves offers a calm, close-up view of many habitats.
Bahia Honda State Park’s gorgeous beaches and hiking trails invite discovery and relaxation. Anglers will be delighted by the abundance of deepwater and coastal fishing areas in The Keys. Even traveling with a baby, you can still explore all these places.
The ultimate road trip through the Florida Keys must include tasting the local cuisine.
No road trip through the Florida Keys is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Of course, it’s important to stay healthy while traveling by not overeating. However, you can’t ignore amazing food. Key West’s famous key lime pie, a sweet and tangy treat that takes the area’s flavors, will delight your senses.
The iconic restaurants Blue Heaven in Key West and The Fish House in Key Largo offer fresh seafood, conch fritters, and a favorite local snack. For a real feel of the Keys, go to food festivals like Lobsterfest and the Key Lime Festival. Try these culinary delights to add an unforgettable taste to your tropical road trip adventure.
Here are some additional foods and drinks you need to check out when here, including:
- Cuban Sandwiches
- Stone Crab Claws
- Conch Chowder
- Shrimp Scampi
- Cuban Coffee
- Tropical Fruit Smoothies
Cultural and historical sites
When planning a family road trip, you must check out cultural and historical places. Visit the home and museum of Ernest Hemingway in Key West; he wrote some of his most famous works there. Hundreds of vibrant butterflies and lush tropical plants provide a tranquil retreat at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
Islamorada’s Diving Museum provides an intriguing insight into the development of underwater exploration throughout its history. Your comprehension of the historical and cultural tapestry of the Keys will be enhanced by these landmarks, which will not only emphasize the Keys’ distinct heritage.
Local events and festivals
The ultimate road trip through the Florida Keys includes checking out some local events and festivals. Dive into the Key West Fantasy Fest, held every October, includes parades, parties, and live music. It is a lively, dressed event.
The Hemingway Days Festival will honor Ernest Hemingway’s legacy in July with literary readings, a street fair, and a look-alike competition. The Lobster Festival, which takes place annually in August, honors the Keys’ famous spiny lobster with fresh seafood, live entertainment, and a lively street party. These events are a wonderful way to experience the vibrant community spirit and culture of the Keys.
Where can you find accommodation in the Florida Keys?
It is easy to find the ideal place to stay in the Florida Keys because a wide variety of accommodations will suit every visitor. This will be among the travel safety precautions you should never ignore and prepare for in due time.
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne or the Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key offer luxurious accommodations. In Islamorada, the Pelican Cove Resort is an exceptional example of a boutique hotel experience.
The historic Lighthouse Court Hotel in Key West is a good choice if you like a cozy bed-and-breakfast. The Days Inn by Wyndham Key Largo is a good choice for budget-conscious travelers. The Keys have accommodations that meet all your needs, whether you seek affordability, luxury, or charm.
Some tips to make the road trip easier to do
Use this helpful planning advice to ensure your road trip through the Florida Keys runs smoothly. To avoid traffic, get an early start, especially during the busiest times of the year—the summer and holidays. Traveling on U.S. Route 1 during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall will likely result in less traffic. Use the parking spaces available at major sites and pay attention to any applicable parking laws.
Give yourself additional time to accommodate unforeseen pauses and picturesque side trips. After the trip, consider hiring Miami Movers For Less if you find the area interesting. The Florida Keys are a great area; even moving here will be a great option.
Enjoy everything the Florida Keys offers
The ultimate road trip through the Florida Keys is something you want to experience. There won’t be any dull moments with all the beautiful things to check out. Take your time and experience all that the Florida Keys have to offer.