Exploring the Florida Keys
Discover the Florida Keys on an unforgettable island-hopping road trip featuring coral reefs, turquoise water, wildlife encounters, iconic bridges, fresh seafood, and legendary Key West sunsets. Best HotelsBest ToursExploring The Florida Keys
Discover the Florida Keys on an unforgettable island-hopping road trip featuring coral reefs, turquoise water, wildlife encounters, iconic bridges, fresh seafood, and legendary Key West sunsets.
3 Day Florida Keys Itinerary
Day 1
Begin in Key Largo with a snorkeling, glass-bottom boat, or diving excursion at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Enjoy waterfront dining and a sunset overlooking Florida Bay.
Day 2
Drive through Islamorada, stopping at Robbie’s and local galleries before continuing to Marathon. Visit the Turtle Hospital, walk the Old Seven Mile Bridge, and enjoy dinner overlooking the water.
Day 3
Continue across the Seven Mile Bridge to Key West. Explore Old Town, visit the Hemingway Home and Southernmost Point, and end at the Mallory Square sunset celebration.
Local Tips
✅ Treat the Overseas Highway as part of the experience—scenic stops add time to the drive.
✅ Reserve snorkeling trips, wildlife encounters, and Key West attractions early.
✅ Download maps before driving because service can be inconsistent.
✅ Islamorada or Marathon makes a practical central base if you prefer fewer hotel changes.
✅ Watch your speed through the Lower Keys and be alert for protected Key deer.
Best Time to Visit
November through April brings comfortable weather but also peak-season demand.
How Long to Stay
Three days works for the highlights, but five to seven days allows a more relaxed pace.
Walkability
Old Town Key West is walkable; exploring the full island chain requires a car.
Family Friendly
Families enjoy snorkeling, glass-bottom boats, turtle rehabilitation, kayaking, and resort pools.
Pet Friendly
Many resorts and patios welcome pets, but beaches and parks have individual restrictions.
Parking
Parking is manageable outside Key West; in Old Town, park once and walk or use the trolley.
Average Daily Budget
Plan on approximately $300–$700+ per day, depending on lodging and boat excursions.
Weather
The Keys are tropical year-round, with hot, humid summers and warm, drier winters.
Top 4 Florida Keys Hotel Suggestions
From Key Largo to Key West, these four stays offer beautiful water views, distinctive island settings, and easy access to the experiences that make each part of the Keys special.
KEY LARGO
Baker’s Cay Resort
A lush waterfront resort with beach access, water sports, pools, and sunset views—an ideal first stop after the drive from Miami.
ISLAMORADA
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
An iconic oceanfront resort with a fishing pier, spa, golf, water sports, and the classic upscale Islamorada atmosphere.
MARATHON
Isla Bella Beach Resort
A waterfront resort near the Seven Mile Bridge with Gulf views, multiple pools, a marina, and a convenient Middle Keys location.
KEY WEST
Opal Key Resort & Marina
A resort beside Mallory Square, within an easy walk of Duval Street, Old Town attractions, and the nightly sunset celebration.
Top-Rated Florida Keys Tours
Snorkeling and Diving
Sandbar Tours
Wildlife Tours
Fishing Charters
Sunset Cruises
Key West Tours
Best Food & Drink
1. Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen
Casual Key Largo institution for seafood, conch, and Key lime pie.
📍 99336 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo
2. Sundowners
Florida Bay sunsets and seafood in Key Largo.
📍 103900 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo
3. Lorelei Restaurant
Waterfront Islamorada favorite with live music and sunsets.
📍 96 Madeira Rd., Islamorada
4. Keys Fisheries
Dockside seafood and the famous lobster Reuben in Marathon.
📍 3502 Gulfview Ave., Marathon
5. Blue Heaven
Beloved Key West restaurant known for tropical atmosphere and Key lime pie.
📍 729 Thomas St., Key West
What to Pack
From beach days and poolside essentials to travel favorites, discover the products we recommend to make your Florida vacation more comfortable, convenient, and unforgettable.
Beat The Florida Heat
Cooling towels, fans, water bottles, electrolyte packs and more.
Family Travel Favorites
Parent-approved travel products for kids, babies, and family trips.
Resort and Pool Must Haves
Everything for pool days, spa days, and relaxing Florida vacations.
Luxury Vacation Upgrades
Sometimes it’s the little upgrades that make a vacation feel truly luxurious.