Miami to Florida Keys Road Trip
Your 7-Day RV Adventure from Miami to Key West
If you’ve been dreaming of white-sand beaches, endless sunshine, and palm-fringed roads, this Florida Keys road trip is the adventure for you.
Island-hop from Miami to Key West with 42 bridges beneath your wheels, turquoise waters on either side, and a salty breeze that smells like freedom. Whether you’re in a rental RV or your own camper, this itinerary is built for ease, spontaneity, and unforgettable moments.
Route
Miami ➤ Key Largo ➤ Marathon ➤ Key West ➤ Miami
Distance
329 miles
Trip Duration
7 days
Highlights
South Pointe Pier, Molasses Reef, Old Seven Mile Bridge, Key West Lighthouse, Mallory Square
Best Time to Visit
November to May
Tolls
Some toll roads and bridges apply along the route.
Stop 1 – Miami
We recommend 2 days
Your Miami to Florida Keys road trip starts in the heart of South Florida’s energy: Miami. This vibrant city is more than just its famous beaches—it’s a cultural melting pot of Latin rhythms, Art Deco glamor, and cutting-edge cuisine. Whether you’re arriving by plane or picking up your RV rental in Miami, this is your launchpad into the tropics.
Before you hit the highway, soak in the sun at South Beach, wander through Wynwood’s art-lined alleys, or recharge with fresh seafood along the marina. From sipping cortaditos in Little Havana to finding shade beneath coconut palms at Matheson Hammock Park, Miami fuels both your vehicle and your wanderlust.
Things to Do
Nature Highlights
- South Pointe Pier – Where ocean breezes meet skyline views, this stretch of boardwalk carries a sense of calm just beyond the buzz of South Beach.
- Matheson Hammock Park – A quiet escape surrounded by swaying palms and still waters, where time feels slower and the city slips quietly into the background.
Local Culture
- Giralda Plaza – Umbrellas floating overhead, music drifting through the air, and a mosaic of cafés and street art bring this Coral Gables corner to life.
- Bayside Marketplace – A lively fusion of water, rhythm, and energy, with sailboats in the bay and tropical sounds echoing through open-air patios.
Where to Eat
Quick-bite / take-away
- The Salty Donut – Wynwood donut shop offering small-batch flavors and craft cold brew. (vegan options)
- Pura Vida – Chill café chain with bowls, smoothies, and light meals across Miami. (vegan, gluten-free)
- L’Artisane Creative Bakery – Vegan French bakery with croissants, pastries, and seasonal sweets. (100% vegan)
Sit-down restaurants
- Rusty Pelican – Seafood spot with panoramic sunset views over Biscayne Bay. (gluten-free options)
- Ocean Grill at the Setai – Courtyard dining with Southeast Asian flair by the beach. (vegan, gluten-free)
- Planta Queen – Stylish Coconut Grove spot for bold plant-based Asian fusion. (100% vegan)
Stop 2 – Key Largo
We recommend 1 day
The gateway to the Keys, Key Largo eases you into island life with laid-back charm. This stretch of your Florida Keys road trip itinerary is all about diving in—literally. Snorkel the coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or take a glass-bottom boat to glimpse a world beneath the waves. If you’re on an RV Florida Keys trip, nearby camping spots offer stunning sunrise views.
Things to Do
Nature Highlights
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – America’s first underwater park, where coral gardens and sea life invite you to explore by snorkel, dive, or glass-bottom boat.
- Molasses Reef – A renowned dive and snorkel site with crystal-clear water and a rainbow of marine species, just offshore from Key Largo.
- Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park – Quiet forest trails and rare plant species offer a peaceful escape just minutes from the highway.
Local Culture
- African Queen Canal Cruise – Step aboard the original steamboat from the classic 1951 film for a nostalgic ride through the canals of Key Largo.
Where to Eat
Quick-bite / take-away
- Harriette’s Restaurant – Cozy breakfast spot known for jumbo muffins and classic diner plates. (vegetarian options)
- Breezer’s Tiki Bar – Waterfront tiki bar with tropical cocktails and casual snacks. (vegetarian options)
- Skipper’s Dockside – Marina-side seafood spot with cocktails and open-air seating. (gluten-free options)
- Denny’s Latin Cafe – Cuban café serving sandwiches, coffee, and Latin-style comfort food. (gluten-free options)
Sit-down restaurants
- Sundowners – Casual bayside seafood restaurant known for great sunset views. (gluten-free options)
- Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant – Relaxed lobster-focused spot with patio seating. (gluten-free options)
- Key Largo Conch House – Cottage eatery with conch fritters and eco-conscious values. (gluten-free options)
- C&C Wood Fired Eats – Cozy local spot for pizzas and comfort food from the wood-fired oven. (vegetarian options)
Stop 3 – Marathon
We recommend: 1 day
Situated in the middle of the Keys, Marathon is a perfect mid-point to slow things down. This is where your Florida Keys road trip turns scenic. Cross the Old Seven Mile Bridge for an unforgettable drive and stop by Pigeon Key to step back into Keys history. If you’re on the lookout for Key West camping ideas, Marathon has peaceful alternatives with ocean views.
Things to Do
Nature Highlights
- Old Seven Mile Bridge – Stretching over endless blue, this historic bridge invites walkers and cyclists to take in some of the best views in the Keys.
- Curry Hammock State Park – Nature takes the lead here, with mangrove trails, clear shallows for snorkeling, and the hush of birds overhead.
Local Culture
- Pigeon Key – Tucked just offshore, this tiny island holds stories from the early days of the Overseas Railway, with calm waters and quiet boardwalks all around.
- The Turtle Hospital – A heartwarming stop where rescued sea turtles are cared for and released, with guided tours that share their stories and conservation mission.
Where to Eat
Quick-bite / take-away
- Irie Island Eats – Food truck with Caribbean-style tacos, bowls, and smoothies. (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options)
- The Marketplace – Deli with wraps, sandwiches, juices, and quick healthy bites. (vegan options available)
- Takeria La Palapa – Casual Mexican spot with house tortillas and bold flavors. (dietary accommodations not confirmed)
- Marathon Bagel Co. – Local stop for hand-rolled bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee. (vegetarian and vegan options)
Sit-down restaurants
- Porky’s Bayside Restaurant & Marina – Seafood and BBQ with live music & dockside seating. (vegetarian & gluten-free options)
- Mahina – Cozy island-to-table restaurant with seasonal dishes. (vegan and gluten-free options)
- Upper Crust Pizza – Relaxed pizzeria serving thin-crust pies and subs. (vegetarian options available)
- Barracuda Grill – Bistro-style seafood and creative plates in a casual setting. (gluten-free options available)
Stop 4 – Key West
We recommend: 2 days
Key West is the exhale at the end of your Miami to Florida Keys road trip—an island full of color, character, and a kind of magic that lingers. Between pastel houses, roaming chickens, live music, and golden-hour rituals at Mallory Square, there’s a rhythm here that invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
If you’re traveling by RV, you’ll find scenic state parks nearby that offer peaceful stays just a short drive from the island. For a closer look at where to camp in the Keys—and what to expect when you get there—have a look at our guide to RV camping in the Florida Keys.
Things to Do
Nature Highlights
- Dry Tortugas National Park – Surrounded by open sea, this far-off island feels like a secret—coral reefs, soft winds, and a fortress rising from the water.
- Key West Lighthouse – A quiet climb above the island reveals sweeping views, sea breezes, and a sense of how life once moved by the rhythm of the ocean.
Local Culture
- Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum – Beneath the shade of palm trees and through rooms lined with old typewriters, the spirit of storytelling lingers in the air.
- Mallory Square – As the sun melts into the Gulf, the square pulses with music, color, and the magic of a crowd gathered just to witness the light change.
Where to Eat
Quick-bite / take-away
- Keys Coffee Co. – Coffee shop with Cuban drinks, breakfast, and quick bites. (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options)
- DJ’s Clam Shack – Seafood shack on Duval with lobster rolls, clams, and casual charm. (gluten-free options)
- Bad Boy Burrito – Small spot for tacos, burritos, and spicy sauces. (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options)
- Old Town Bakery – Bakery with sandwiches, crusty bread, and flaky pastries. (vegetarian and vegan options)
Sit-down restaurants
- Two Friends Patio Restaurant – Open-air eatery with seafood and all-day breakfast. (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options)
- Red Shoe Island Bistro – Cozy bistro serving creative island-style dishes. (gluten-free options)
- Hot Tin Roof Restaurant – Fusion dining with harbor views and Caribbean flavors. (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options)
- First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery – Historic spot with beer & tropical bites. (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options)
Stop 5 – Miami
We recommend: 1 day
As your Florida Keys road trip itinerary comes full circle, spend one more relaxing day in Miami. Revisit your favorite beachside café, grab a final sunset photo at South Pointe Park, and savor that warm, end-of-the-road feeling.
If you’re dropping off an RV rental, this is also a good moment to fuel up and refresh before reentering city life. The road between Miami and Key West may be short in distance, but long in memories.
RV Travel Tips for the Florida Keys
Whether it’s your first RV trip or you’re a seasoned road-tripper, a little prep goes a long way. These tips will help you start your Florida Keys adventure with everything in place—minus the stress.
- Book campsites early. Florida State Parks fill up fast, especially in winter. You can reserve up to 11 months in advance on ReserveAmerica.
- Pack for the heat. Reef-safe sunscreen, UV-protective clothing, and breathable layers are must-haves. A portable fan for your RV doesn’t hurt either.
- Prep your RV gear. Make sure you’ve got leveling blocks, a water pressure regulator, electrical adapters, and bug spray. For a full list of what to bring, check out our RV camping packing list.
Once the wheels are rolling, the Keys unfold at their own pace. Here are a few road-savvy reminders to help you drive smoother, save money, and make the most of the journey.
- Expect tolls. The Florida Turnpike and Homestead Extension are tolled. A SunPass gets you the best rates. You can estimate your trip cost with the toll calculator.
- Fuel up when you can. Gas gets pricier the further you go into the Keys. Homestead and Key Largo usually offer the best prices.
- Mind the highway rhythm. US-1 (Overseas Highway) can get congested. Mornings are quieter—great for scenic stops with fewer crowds.
You’ve made it to the tropics—now it’s time to settle in. From fees to parking to doing right by the reef, these tips will help you camp comfortably and respectfully.
- Expect fees at state parks. Most charge $4–$8 per vehicle for day use. RV campsites range from $20–$42 per night plus a $7 utility fee. For details, see the fee schedule.
- Parking in Key West can be tricky for RVs. Look for outer lots—downtown options often have size restrictions and $4+/hr rates.
- Leave No Trace. Stick to trails, pack out your trash, and use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect local ecosystems and coral reefs.
Start Your Miami to Florida Keys Road Trip
Hit the road with one of the largest RV fleets in the world. Whether you’re after a camper van, compact RV, or full-sized motorhome, your perfect ride is waiting in Miami—ready to take you all the way to Key West.