Key Largo to Key West is a picturesque stretch of the Florida Keys, offering visitors a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The journey from Key Largo to Key West covers a distance of around 100 miles, passing through a chain of islands connected by the Overseas Highway. This scenic drive is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
Transportation options for traveling from Key Largo to Key West include rental cars, shuttle buses, and private taxis. Visitors can also opt for guided tours that offer insights into the region’s history, culture, and ecology. Major stops and attractions along the way include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Other popular activities and experiences include snorkeling, diving, fishing, and kayaking.
Key Takeaways
- The journey from Key Largo to Key West offers visitors a glimpse of the Florida Keys’ natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
- Transportation options include rental cars, shuttle buses, private taxis, and guided tours.
- Major stops and attractions along the way include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
The Journey from Key Largo to Key West
The journey from Key Largo to Key West is a scenic drive that takes you through the beautiful Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway, which stretches for over 100 miles, is the only road that connects the islands of the Florida Keys.
The distance from Key Largo to Key West is approximately 100 miles, and it takes about 2.5 hours to drive without any stops. However, it is recommended that you take your time and make stops along the way to fully enjoy the beauty of the Florida Keys.
The Florida Keys road trip itinerary from Key Largo to Key West includes driving through the picturesque towns of Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key. Each town has its own unique charm and attractions that are worth exploring.
The Overseas Highway is a marvel of engineering, as it runs across a series of bridges and causeways that connect the islands. The Seven Mile Bridge, which is one of the longest bridges in the world, is a highlight of the drive.
Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands. Visitors can also indulge in various water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
In conclusion, the journey from Key Largo to Key West is a must-do for anyone visiting the Florida Keys. The drive is beautiful, and there are plenty of things to see and do along the way.
Transportation Options
There are several transportation options available for those traveling from Key Largo to Key West. Whether you prefer to drive, take public transportation, or bike, there are options to suit your needs.
Car
Driving is the most popular transportation option for those traveling from Key Largo to Key West. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, and there are several car rental companies available in both Key Largo and Key West. Additionally, there are several parking options available in Key West, including street parking and parking garages.
Public Transportation
For those who prefer not to drive, there are several public transportation options available. The Key West Transit system operates several bus routes throughout the city, and there are also several private bus companies, such as FlixBus USA, that operate services between Key Largo and Key West. Bus tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station.
Bicycle
For the more adventurous traveler, biking is a great option for exploring the Florida Keys. There are several bike rental companies available in both Key Largo and Key West, and the scenic Overseas Highway provides a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely bike ride. Additionally, there are several running trails available for those who prefer to explore on foot.
Overall, there are several transportation options available for those traveling from Key Largo to Key West. Whether you prefer to drive, take public transportation, or bike, there are options to suit your needs.
Major Stops and Attractions
Traveling from Key Largo to Key West is a journey that is filled with many exciting stops and attractions. Here are some of the major stops and attractions that are definitely worth a visit.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and the ocean. This park is home to the only living coral reef in the continental United States. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.
Islamorada
Islamorada is known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World.” Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities here, such as fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking. This area is also home to many great restaurants and bars.
Marathon
Marathon is a great place to stop and explore. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, such as visiting the Turtle Hospital, exploring the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, and relaxing on Sombrero Beach.
Seven Mile Bridge
The Seven Mile Bridge is one of the most iconic attractions in the Florida Keys. This bridge connects Marathon to the Lower Keys and offers stunning views of the ocean.
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is a beautiful destination that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Southernmost Point
The Southernmost Point is a must-visit destination for anyone who is traveling to Key West. This landmark is located just 90 miles from Cuba and is a great place to take photos and enjoy the beautiful ocean views.
History of Diving Museum
The History of Diving Museum is a great place to learn about the history of diving. This museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the evolution of diving equipment and techniques.
Robbie’s
Robbie’s is a great place to stop and enjoy some local cuisine. Visitors can also feed the tarpon that swim in the marina.
Key Deer
The Key Deer are a unique species that can only be found in the Florida Keys. Visitors can see these small deer up close at the National Key Deer Refuge.
Old Seven Mile Bridge
The Old Seven Mile Bridge is a great place to go for a walk or bike ride. This bridge offers stunning views of the ocean and is a great place to watch the sunset.
Long Key State Park
Long Key State Park is a beautiful destination that is perfect for camping and hiking. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities here, such as fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.
Dolphin Research Center
The Dolphin Research Center is a great place to learn about these intelligent creatures. Visitors can watch the dolphins perform and even swim with them.
No Name Pub
The No Name Pub is a great place to stop and enjoy some local beer and pizza. This pub is located in a historic building and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Pigeon Key
Pigeon Key is a small island that is home to a historic railroad museum. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore the museum and other attractions.
Rain Barrel Village
The Rain Barrel Village is a great place to stop and shop for local art and souvenirs. Visitors can also watch local artists at work and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
Theater of the Sea
The Theater of the Sea is a great place to watch marine animals perform. Visitors can watch dolphins, sea lions, and other animals perform and even swim with them.
Curry Hammock State Park
Curry Hammock State Park is a beautiful destination that is perfect for camping and hiking. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities here, such as fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
The Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters is a great place to see a variety of marine animals up close. Visitors can even swim with sharks and other animals.
Activities and Experiences
The Florida Keys are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide variety of activities and experiences to choose from. Visitors can explore the underwater world by diving or snorkeling, take a glass-bottom boat tour, go fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, hike through nature trails, or simply relax on the beach.
Diving is one of the most popular activities in the Florida Keys, with dozens of dive sites to explore. From shallow reefs to deep wrecks, there is something for every level of diver. Key Largo is known as the “Diving Capital of the World” and offers some of the best diving in the area, including the famous Spiegel Grove wreck.
Boating is another popular activity in the Florida Keys, with many options available. Visitors can take a snorkeling or sunset cruise, rent a boat for the day, or even charter a fishing boat to try their luck at catching some of the local fish.
For those who prefer to stay above the water, snorkeling is a great option. Many of the same dive sites that are popular with scuba divers are also accessible for snorkelers, allowing them to see the vibrant marine life up close.
The Florida Keys are also known for their fishing, with Key West being the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World.” Visitors can try their hand at catching tarpon, bonefish, or even sailfish on a charter fishing trip.
For those who prefer to explore on land, hiking, bicycling, and paddling are great options. The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail is a 106-mile trail that runs from Key Largo to Key West and is perfect for hiking or biking. Visitors can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the many mangrove-lined waterways.
No matter what your interests, the Florida Keys offer a wide variety of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy.
Food and Dining
When it comes to food and dining, the Florida Keys have a lot to offer. From fresh seafood to classic Key Lime pie, visitors can find something to satisfy their taste buds.
One popular spot for seafood is The Fish House in Key Largo. This restaurant offers a wide variety of seafood options, including their famous fish tacos and conch fritters. Another must-try seafood restaurant is Hogfish Bar and Grill in Stock Island. They are known for their fresh hogfish, a local delicacy.
For a more casual dining experience, visitors can check out No Name Pub in Big Pine Key. This historic pub serves up delicious pizza and cold beer, and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Those looking for a more upscale dining experience can visit Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill in Marathon. This restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes and has a beautiful waterfront view.
Last but not least, no trip to the Florida Keys is complete without trying some Key Lime pie. Harriette’s Restaurant in Key Largo is known for their delicious homemade Key Lime pie, made with fresh ingredients.
Overall, the Florida Keys offer a diverse range of dining options for visitors to enjoy.
Accommodations
For those planning a trip from Key Largo to Key West, there are plenty of accommodation options available. From hotels to resorts, visitors can choose from a range of places to stay depending on their preferences and budget.
One of the popular options for accommodation is hotels. There are several hotels located in the area that offer comfortable and affordable stays. These include popular chain hotels like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt, as well as independent hotels. Visitors can choose from a range of room options, including standard rooms, suites, and oceanfront views.
For those seeking a more private and secluded experience, vacation rentals are also available. These include villas, cottages, and apartments. Visitors can choose from a range of options depending on their needs, including the number of bedrooms, amenities, and location.
Another popular option is resorts. One such resort is the Atlantic Bay Resort, located in Tavernier. This resort is known for its stunning ocean views, private beach, and comfortable rooms. It offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness center.
Overall, visitors to the Key Largo to Key West area have a range of accommodation options to choose from, depending on their preferences and budget. From hotels to vacation rentals to resorts, there is something for everyone.
Seasonal Considerations
When planning a trip from Key Largo to Key West, it is important to consider the seasonal changes that affect the area. The climate in this region is subtropical, with warm temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year. However, there are some seasonal variations that visitors should be aware of to make the most of their trip.
Fall
Fall is a great time to visit the Florida Keys, as the weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds have thinned out. The average temperature in September is around 85°F, with cooler temperatures in the evening. Visitors can enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing, as well as exploring the many parks and nature reserves in the area.
Winter
Winter is the peak season in the Florida Keys, with many visitors escaping the cold weather in other parts of the country. The average temperature in December is around 75°F, with cooler temperatures in the evening. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, kayaking, and hiking, as well as exploring the many art galleries and museums in the area.
Spring
Spring is a popular time to visit the Florida Keys, as the weather is warm and sunny, but the crowds have not yet arrived. The average temperature in March is around 80°F, with cooler temperatures in the evening. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including snorkeling, diving, and fishing, as well as exploring the many historic sites and landmarks in the area.
Miami
Miami is a popular starting point for visitors to the Florida Keys, with many flights arriving at Miami International Airport. Visitors can take a shuttle or rental car from the airport to Key Largo, the first island in the Florida Keys. The drive from Miami to Key Largo takes about an hour, depending on traffic.
In conclusion, visitors to the Florida Keys should consider the seasonal changes when planning their trip. Whether you visit in the fall, winter, or spring, there are plenty of activities to enjoy and sights to see. By being aware of the seasonal variations, visitors can make the most of their trip and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.
Historical Context
The Florida Keys, including Key Largo and Key West, have a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early 1500s when Spanish explorers first arrived in the area. Over the centuries, the Keys have been inhabited by Native American tribes, pirates, and settlers from all over the world.
One of the most significant events in the history of the Florida Keys was the construction of the Florida East Coast Railway in the early 1900s. This railway connected Key West to the mainland, making it much easier to transport goods and people to and from the island. However, the railway was severely damaged by a hurricane in 1935, and it was eventually replaced by the Overseas Highway.
The Overseas Highway, also known as U.S. Route 1, is a 113-mile road that connects Key Largo to Key West. It was built in the 1930s and 1940s, and it is now one of the most scenic drives in the United States. The highway includes dozens of bridges and offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands.
Another important aspect of the history of the Florida Keys is diving. The Keys are home to some of the best diving spots in the world, and the History of Diving Museum in Islamorada celebrates the rich history of diving in the area. The museum features exhibits on the evolution of diving equipment, famous divers, and the role of diving in the development of the Keys.
Overall, the history of the Florida Keys is a fascinating and complex story that is still being written today. From the Spanish explorers to the construction of the Overseas Highway and the development of diving, the Keys have played an important role in the history of the United States and the world.
Natural Beauty
The drive from Key Largo to Key West is a scenic journey that showcases the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. The route takes drivers along the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, providing stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and the abundant marine life.
One of the highlights of the journey is the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which spans 2,900 square nautical miles and is home to a diverse array of marine life. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the sanctuary and see dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish up close.
Another must-see destination is the Dry Tortugas National Park, located about 70 miles west of Key West. The park consists of seven small islands and is home to Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century military fortress. Visitors can take a ferry or seaplane to the park and explore the pristine beaches and coral reefs.
The natural beauty of the Florida Keys is not limited to the ocean. The Everglades, located just a short drive from Big Pine Key, is a vast wetland ecosystem that is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees. Visitors can take an airboat tour to explore the Everglades and see the unique ecosystem up close.
As the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico, visitors can witness a breathtaking display of colors that paints the sky. The sunset in Key West is particularly famous, and many visitors gather at Mallory Square to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Overall, the natural beauty of the Florida Keys is a testament to the importance of preserving our planet’s ecosystems. Visitors who take the time to explore the area will be rewarded with stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Travel Guide and Tips
Traveling from Key Largo to Key West is a beautiful drive through the Florida Keys. Here are some tips and recommendations to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Mile Markers
The Florida Keys are marked by mile markers, starting at mile marker 106 in Key Largo and ending at mile marker 0 in Key West. These markers are a great way to navigate and plan your trip. Each mile marker has unique attractions, restaurants, and activities to explore.
Overnight Stays
If you plan on spending the night in the Keys, there are plenty of options available. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there is something for everyone. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Tolls
There is only one toll on the drive from Key Largo to Key West, which is at the entrance to the Florida Keys. The toll is $2 per vehicle, and it is recommended to have cash on hand as not all toll booths accept credit cards.
Affiliate Links
While there are many attractions and activities to enjoy in the Florida Keys, it is important to be cautious of affiliate links. Some websites may offer discounts or promotions, but it is recommended to research and verify the legitimacy of the website before making any purchases.
Overall, traveling from Key Largo to Key West is a beautiful and unique experience. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended stops on a Florida Keys itinerary from Key Largo to Key West?
Some recommended stops on a Florida Keys itinerary from Key Largo to Key West include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Theater of the Sea, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
How long does it take to drive from Key Largo to Key West?
It takes approximately 2-3 hours to drive from Key Largo to Key West, depending on traffic and stops along the way.
Are there any scenic routes to take from Key Largo to Key West?
Yes, the Overseas Highway (US 1) is a scenic route that runs from Key Largo to Key West and offers stunning views of the ocean and the Florida Keys.
What are some must-see attractions in Key West?
Some must-see attractions in Key West include the Southernmost Point, Mallory Square, Duval Street, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
Can you recommend any good restaurants along the drive from Key Largo to Key West?
Yes, some good restaurants along the drive from Key Largo to Key West include Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, The Hungry Tarpon, and Robbie’s of Islamorada.
What is the best time of year to make the drive from Key Largo to Key West?
The best time of year to make the drive from Key Largo to Key West is during the winter months, from December to March, when the weather is mild and there is less humidity.