BOOK NOW

24 May 2024    Attractions    Emma Adamson

Buckle up for an unforgettable adventure! The road trip from Miami to Key West is a classic Florida experience, whisking you from a sizzling city to a laid-back island paradise.

Miami kicks off the journey with its famous beaches. Imagine soft sand between your toes and the turquoise Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you.  Immerse yourself in the vibrant Cuban culture of Little Havana, where the streets are alive with music and colorful facades.

Then, it's time to hit the road! Cruise along the scenic Overseas Highway, a long stretch of road that feels like it leads straight out to the ocean.  With turquoise water on both sides, you'll be tempted to pull over at every island you pass.  Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in the waves!

The island chain gradually slows down the pace. The closer you get to Key West Florida, the more relaxed the atmosphere becomes. Finally, you'll arrive in this beautiful town, where colorful houses line the streets and a carefree vibe hangs in the air. Live music spills out from cafes, the scent of fresh seafood fills your nose, and every day feels like a beach vacation. Welcome to Key West!

Let us talk about some of the things to know about your trip from Miami to Key West.

Drive From Miami to Key West

miami to key west

Sun's out, top down! Get ready for a Florida road trip like no other: Miami to Key West. We're talking about cruising from a hot city beach scene to a chilled-out island escape.

Miami first! Picture this: sparkling turquoise water lapping at white sand beaches. Feel the warm sun on your skin as you soak up the energy of this buzzing city. Dive into the vibrant Cuban vibes of Little Havana, filled with colorful buildings and lively music.

Next up, hit the road!  The Overseas Highway takes you on a scenic adventure. Imagine a long stretch of smooth road with turquoise water on both sides, almost like driving on water!  Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins jumping in the waves – you might just spot some.

Island by island, the pace slows down. The closer you get to Key West, the more relaxed the atmosphere becomes. Finally, you'll arrive in this charming town bursting with colorful houses. Sunshine, fresh seafood smells, and lively music from cafes fill the air.  This is Key West, where every day feels like a perfect beach vacation!.

What is the distance from Miami to Key West?

The drive from Miami to Key West isn't super long, but it's definitely worth the road trip packed with sunshine and stunning views. Think of it like this: it's about a 3-to-4-hour cruise down a long, scenic highway with blue waters sparkling on both sides. That's roughly 160 to 170 miles, depending on the exact route you take.

The best part? The drive itself is half the fun! You might even want to factor in some extra time to pull over and explore some of the cool islands along the way!

Can I take a bus from Miami to Key West?

Absolutely!  While the scenic road trip is a popular choice, you can also take a bus from Miami to Key West, Fl for a more relaxed experience. It's a great option if you want to kick back, enjoy the views, and avoid the hassle of traffic or parking.

There are a couple of bus companies that run this route, with buses departing a few times a day. The trip itself takes around 3 to 4 hours, similar to driving.  One perk of taking the bus is that they often offer amenities like comfy seats with legroom, free Wi-Fi, and even outlets to charge your devices for those must-have Key West vacation photos!

Is there a Car Rental Miami to Key West that I can use?

Absolutely! Renting a car is a popular choice for the Miami to Key West adventure. It gives you the freedom to explore the Florida Keys at your own pace and stop wherever you see something interesting along the way. 

Many travelers recommend booking your car rental in advance, especially during peak season, to get the best selection and rates.

Here are some things to keep in mind when renting a car for your Miami to Key West trip:

  • The distance: It's about a 160–170-mile drive, so most cars will be perfectly suitable for the trip.
  • One-way rentals: Be sure to ask about one-way rental fees, as some companies may charge extra for dropping your car off in a different location.
  • Parking: Parking can be tight in Key West, so consider the size of the car when making your choice.
  • Tolls: There are a few tolls on the route, so be sure to have cash or check with the rental company about their electronic toll payment options.

With a rental car, you can pack your beach essentials, coolers with snacks and drinks, and any specific gear you need for your planned activities in the Keys. Sunshine, salty air, and an unforgettable road trip await!

Can I take a ferry from Miami to Key West?

There currently aren't any ferry services directly connecting Miami to Key West. While that might be the most convenient option, it isn’t available at the moment! Here are a couple of alternatives:

1. Ferry from nearby cities: The Key West Express ferry operates from Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island on the Florida coast, taking you directly to Key West. This might involve a bit more travel time on your end to reach the departure points, but it could still be a fun way to experience the scenic Florida coastline from a different perspective. 

2. Day cruises: Some companies offer day cruises from Miami to Key West. These are typically longer trips focused on sightseeing and enjoying the water, rather than the most efficient way to get there. They might be a good option if you're looking for a fun day out on the water with some Key West sightseeing included.

Conclusion

Dreaming of a Florida Keys escape?! Whether you crave a classic road trip with convertible hair and salty air, or a relaxing bus ride with stunning ocean views, getting from Miami to Key West is easy.

For the ultimate flexibility, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore hidden island gems and pull over for spontaneous beach breaks. If a car isn't your style, there are bus routes and even ferry options from nearby cities, making this tropical paradise accessible to everyone.

No matter how you get there, the blue waters, lively coral reefs, and laid-back island charm of Key West await. FloridaKeysVacationRentals.Us has the perfect home base for your family, with plenty of space to unwind and create lasting memories.  So, pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sense of adventure – the Florida Keys Road trip is calling your name!

Back to Top