Florida Keys Overseas Highway Road Trip: 113-Mile Guide
Discover the ultimate scenic drive through turquoise waters, iconic bridges, and island paradises on the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West.
The Overseas Highway, stretching 113 miles from mainland Florida to Key West, offers one of America’s most iconic scenic drives. This engineering marvel connects 43 unique keys via 42 bridges, providing nonstop vistas of turquoise Atlantic waters and Gulf sunsets.
History and Engineering Behind the Drive
Originally built on the ruins of the Overseas Railroad, constructed by Henry Flagler in the early 1900s, the highway rose from the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane’s destruction. Railroad tracks were repurposed into roadway, with the famous Seven Mile Bridge standing as a testament to resilience.
Designated a Florida Keys Scenic Highway and All-American Road, it spans from Mile Marker 110 near Jewfish Creek Bridge to Mile Marker 0 in Key West. The corridor extends five miles into surrounding waters, protecting coral reefs and mangroves.
Planning Your Overseas Highway Journey
The drive from Miami to Key West takes 3-4 hours nonstop, but allocate a full day or more for stops. Best traveled October to February for mild 80°F weather; avoid June-September hurricane season.
- Direction: Miami to Key West (east to west) for sunrise views; reverse for sunsets.
- Vehicle: Rent a convertible for open-air thrills; speed limits 35-55 mph.
- Traffic: Narrow two-lane sections; expect 2-3 hours minimum.
- Costs: State park fees $2.50-$9 per vehicle; reservations for aquariums/turtle hospitals.
Top Stops Along the Route
Key attractions dot the highway, blending nature, history, and adventure.
Key Largo: Gateway to the Keys (Mile Marker 100)
Dolphin Research Center and Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters highlight marine life. Snorkel John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park’s vibrant reefs.
Islamorada: Sportfishing Capital (Mile Marker 80-90)
Visit Lazy Days for conch fritters; Theater of the Sea offers dolphin swims. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park showcases ancient quarries.
Marathon: Bridge and Wildlife Hub (Mile Marker 50-60)
Cross the legendary Seven Mile Bridge—walk the old parallel span for photos. Turtle Hospital rehabilitates sea turtles; Sombrero Beach provides calm waters.
| Stop | Mile Marker | Highlight | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seven Mile Bridge | 47 | Iconic 7-mile span over ocean | Free |
| Turtle Hospital | 48.5 | Sea turtle rescue tours | $30 adult |
| Bahia Honda State Park | 37 | Pristine beaches, snorkeling | $8/vehicle |
Big Pine Key and Lower Keys (Mile Marker 20-40)
Bahia Honda State Park’s Sandspur Beach and Lodge ruins offer postcard perfection. Spot Key deer in the National Key Deer Refuge—no feeding allowed.
Key West: Southernmost Point (Mile Marker 0)
End at Duval Street’s vibrant scene, Ernest Hemingway Home, and the buoy marking America’s southern tip. Sunset at Mallory Square is legendary.
Best Accommodations by Key
Stay overnight to savor the journey.
- Key Largo: Baker’s Cay Resort—oceanfront luxury.
- Islamorada: Cheeca Lodge—private beach, fishing charters.
- Marathon: Faro Blanco Resort—marina views.
- Big Pine Key: Bahia Honda cabins—rustic park stays.
- Key West: Southernmost Beach Resort—steps from action.
Driving Tips and Safety Essentials
Patrolled roads demand caution: no littering, protect manatees/man groves. Gas up often; cell service spotty. Pack water, sunscreen; bridges have no shoulders.
- Watch for Key deer crossings (flashing signs).
- Bridge winds can sway vehicles—drive defensively.
- Park only in designated areas to avoid fines.
Food and Dining Highlights
Seafood reigns: key lime pie, stone crab claws, fresh mahi-mahi.
- Sunset Grille (Marathon): Bridge views, raw bar.
- Michel’s Tiki Boat (Key Largo): Floating dining.
- Blue Heaven (Key West): Key lime breakfast.
Activities Beyond the Road
Snorkel, fish, kayak amid reefs. Bike bridges, paddle mangroves, or join eco-tours.
FAQs
How long is the Overseas Highway?
113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, with 42 bridges.
Is it worth driving the Overseas Highway?
Absolutely—one of Florida’s top scenic routes, blending ocean drama and island charm.
Best time to visit Florida Keys?
October-February for dry weather; book ahead for peak season.
Can you drive Overseas Highway at night?
Possible but not recommended—limited lighting, wildlife risks.
Are there tolls on the Overseas Highway?
No tolls; just park fees where applicable.
This road trip encapsulates tropical escape: endless horizons, wildlife glimpses, and laid-back vibes. Whether solo or family, the Overseas Highway delivers memories over water.
References
- Florida’s Most Scenic Drive: Overseas Highway — YouTube. N/A. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrajcqDZ2bI
- Florida Keys Scenic Highway — Official Site. N/A. https://www.scenichighwayflkeys.com
- Florida Keys Road Trip: 10 Essential Stops — Clara the Explorer. N/A. https://klaratheexplorer.com/florida-keys-road-trip-10-stops-on-the-overseas-highway/
- Know Before You Go Overseas Highway — Shaka Guide. N/A. https://www.shakaguide.com/article/overseas-highway/overseas-highway-florida-keys-know-before-you-go
- The Overseas Highway Reviews — TripAdvisor. 2026. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g34345-d109832-Reviews-The_Overseas_Highway-Key_West_Florida_Keys_Florida.html
- 10 Fun Stops Overseas Highway Road Trip — Florida Keys Activities. N/A. https://flkeysactivities.com/blog/10-fun-stops-to-make-on-an-overseas-highway-road-trip/
- Florida Keys Scenic Highway All-American Road — Visit Florida. N/A. https://www.visitflorida.com/listing/florida-keys-scenic-highway-all-american-road/26486/
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