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Miami to Key West: The Drive

It's one of America's great drives — island-hopping down the Overseas Highway to the southernmost point in the continental U.S. Here's how to do it right.

Short answer: The drive from Miami to Key West is about 160 miles and 3.5–4 hours down US-1, the Overseas Highway — 113 miles of island-hopping across 42 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge. Leave early, and make a day of the stops along the way.

The route at a glance

From Miami, take the Turnpike south to Florida City, then US-1 becomes the Overseas Highway all the way to Key West. It's a single scenic road — hard to get lost, easy to fall in love with. The Turnpike leg is a cashless toll road, so a SunPass-ready car keeps you moving.

Best stops along the way

MM 106 · ~1 hr

Key Largo

The "Diving Capital of the World." John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling and glass-bottom boats.

MM 82 · ~1.5 hrs

Islamorada

The "Sportfishing Capital." Great lunch stop — fresh seafood, Robbie's tarpon feeding, art galleries.

MM 47 · ~2.5 hrs

Marathon & Seven Mile Bridge

The Turtle Hospital, then the iconic Seven Mile Bridge — the drive's showstopper.

MM 37 · ~2.75 hrs

Bahia Honda State Park

Arguably the Keys' best beach — a perfect leg-stretch and swim before the final push.

MM 0 · ~3.5–4 hrs

Key West

Duval Street, the Southernmost Point buoy, Mallory Square sunset, Hemingway's house. Mile marker zero.

Tips for the drive

Frequently asked questions

How long is the drive from Miami to Key West?

About 160 miles and 3.5 to 4 hours without stops, down US-1 (the Overseas Highway). With stops along the Keys, plan a full day.

Is the drive to Key West a toll road?

The Overseas Highway itself is toll-free, but the fastest route from Miami uses the Turnpike, which is a cashless toll road. A SunPass-ready car handles it automatically.

What are the best stops from Miami to Key West?

Key Largo (snorkeling), Islamorada (lunch and fishing), Marathon and the Seven Mile Bridge, and Bahia Honda State Park's beach before reaching Key West.

What is the best car for the Key West drive?

A convertible makes the Overseas Highway and its bridges unforgettable. An SUV is great for a group or gear. iRent has both, all SunPass-ready.

Rent the perfect Keys road-trip car

Convertibles and SUVs, all SunPass-ready — pick up in Miami and point the wheel south.

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