Miami to Key West Drive: Best Stops Along Overseas Highway

Overseas Highway

As soon as you leave the mainland behind, the road becomes the famous Overseas Highway, stretching across the water and connecting dozens of small islands.

I've made the trip to Key West more than a hundred times. Over the years I've learned what's worth stopping for, what to skip, and what never gets old.

The route follows U.S. 1, a 113-mile stretch of road that links the entire Florida Keys together.

Along the way you'll cross more than 40 bridges, pass through small island towns, and often see water on both sides of the road. In many places the Atlantic Ocean is on one side and Florida Bay on the other.

The highway is mostly straight and easy to drive, even for larger vehicles like RVs. Just allow extra time and take it slow across the bridges.

Getting to the Keys

After leaving Miami International Airport, head south on U.S. 1. This road becomes the Overseas Highway, the main route through the Florida Keys.

The Keys begin around Mile Marker 126, just south of Florida City, where you leave Miami-Dade County and enter Monroe County.

Ocean Reef Club, North Key Largo

What's The Stretch?

From Florida City, you'll head onto a long, straight road locals call The Stretch. It runs about 18 miles through the Everglades before reaching Key Largo.

If traffic is clear, you'll reach Key Largo at Mile Marker 107 in about 20 to 25 minutes. If you get there faster, you're probably driving too fast.

Arriving in Key Largo

As soon as you reach Key Largo, the atmosphere changes. This is no longer just a highway. It's a real town with homes, schools, boats, and small local businesses.

Because of that, watch your speed. The limit is about 45 mph through most of town.

On school days, pay attention to the flashing lights in school zones. The speed limit drops to 20 mph and officers enforce it. Tickets can run around $200.

From here, the Overseas Highway continues south toward Key West. The drive becomes more scenic as you cross island after island, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Florida Bay on the other.

What are Mile Markers?

Mile Markers (MM) are small green signs posted along the Overseas Highway. They count down from MM 126 near Florida City all the way to MM 0 in Key West, about 90 miles from Cuba.

Locals use mile markers for directions. That's how places are identified down here.

Key Largo starts around MM 107 and Key West is MM 0, so you've got about 100 miles to go.

The Upper Keys

Key Largo, Tavernier, and Islamorada make up the Upper Keys.

Key Largo is the first island in the chain and the closest to the mainland. It's often called the Scuba Diving Capital of the World, yet it remains a quiet town with only two traffic lights.

At the north end of Key Largo is Ocean Reef Club (MM 106), a large private club and residential community with its own marina, golf course, airport, and restaurants. Access is limited to members and their guests.

Things To Do In Key Largo

One of the main attractions is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park at MM 102.5.

By 7 a.m. on weekends, boats are often lined up waiting to get in. Inside the park you'll find a public boat launch, a small rocky beach, and a visitor center with exhibits. You can also book snorkeling trips or take a glass-bottom boat tour of the reef.

Just down the road at MM 102, visitors can swim with dolphins at Dolphins Plus Bayside. Around 9 a.m. is a good time to see the dolphins being fed and trained.

For kids, visit Jacobs Aquatic Center at MM 99. This well-kept public pool has a large water play area with a pirate ship and plenty of space to cool off on a hot day. It's clean and a nice break from the heat. Call ahead to make sure it's open.

The bay side of Key Largo is also a great place to watch the sunset. If you're looking for the best places to see it, check out my guide to the best sunsets in Key Largo.

Shopping in Key Largo

When it comes to everyday needs, shopping in Key Largo is simple. There's one Publix grocery store, a library, and a Starbucks. You'll also find a few boat yards along with Bell's, TJ Maxx, and West Marine.

For souvenirs and beachwear, Shell World, The Sandal Factory (they don't actually make sandals there), and John's General Store are popular places to stop while passing through Key Largo.

Where to Eat in Key Largo

• Breakfast: High Tide Restaurant and Doc's Diner are classic local diners. For outdoor Keys charm, head to The Conch House.
• Waterside Lunch: Grab a table at Key Largo Fisheries (MM 99), an outdoor waterfront café. You can feed the fish off the dock and watch pelicans swimming nearby. There's live music, a full bar, and plenty of outdoor seating.
• Lunch on the Bay: Gilbert's (MM 107) or Snooks (MM 99) both offer outdoor seating with great views of the bay.
• Happy Hour and Sunset: The Big Chill (MM 104) has food and a million-dollar view of the bay. Or stop by the iconic Caribbean Club for drinks right on the water.
• Seafood Dinner: The Fish House (MM 102) is a great sit-down spot for lunch or dinner. They serve stone crab claws, spiny lobster, and all kinds of fresh seafood.
• Italian Lunch or Dinner: DiGiorgio's Café Largo (MM 104, bayside) offers a full bar and excellent Italian food.

Key Largo is known for fresh local fish. If you're looking for places to eat, check out my guide to the best seafood restaurants in Key Largo.

Where To Stay in Key Largo

Key Largo offers a mix of waterfront resorts and smaller hotels.

Popular waterfront resorts include The Reefhouse Resort, Playa Largo Resort & Spa (Marriott), Baker's Cay Resort (Hilton), and Bungalows, an upscale adults-only all-inclusive resort.

If you're looking for something more affordable, the Holiday Inn is a good option. It has a tropical pool, tiki hut, and a full breakfast buffet. Although it's not on the waterfront, the rooms are clean and it's often less expensive than the larger resorts.

Lido 73, Islamorada

Tavernier

Just south of Key Largo is Tavernier. It's a small community with restaurants and a shopping center that includes Winn-Dixie, Dunkin' Donuts, Chinese takeout, an arcade, and a few local shops.

Along the way there are a couple of worthwhile stops. The Florida Keys Wild Bird Center (MM 93.6) is a rescue and rehabilitation center where you can see native birds up close.

A little farther south on the ocean side is Harry Harris Park (MM 92.5), a beautiful Monroe County beach and picnic area where I like to go for a walk and get some sun. There's also a playground for kids and picnic tables if you want to stop for lunch.

Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

Where To Eat in Tavernier MM 90 to 92

For a sit-down waterside meal, visit Lido 73 (MM 87) for Italian food. It serves lunch and dinner daily and offers a full American breakfast on weekends.

For key lime pie, stop at The Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory (MM 92). Order a slice with mile-high meringue and enjoy it in the garden seating area out back.

Islamorada

Islamorada (around Mile Marker 87), known as the Sport-Fishing Capital of the World, is a small, pretty town just south of Tavernier.

For souvenir shopping, stop at Rain Barrel Village (MM 86.7). Filled with small shops and a few places to grab a bite, it's a cute spot to see local art. Take a photo with the giant Lucy the Lobster out front. It's been there forever and has become a piece of old Florida Keys charm.

Theater of the Sea (MM 84.5) is a classic marine park that has been around since 1946. Visitors can see dolphins, sea lions, turtles, sharks, and parrots. For an extra fee, you can also swim with the dolphins. It's a family-friendly stop and a fun place to spend an hour or two.

Theatre of The Sea

The History of Diving Museum (MM 82) s another worthwhile stop, especially for divers. It tells the story of how diving developed in the Florida Keys and features vintage diving equipment and artifacts.

Another popular stop in Islamorada is Bass Pro Shops World Wide Sportsman (MM 81.5). This large beautiful outdoor store has fishing gear, clothing, and gifts, along with aquariums filled with local fish. Outside you'll find a marina and waterfront views, making it a fun place to stretch your legs during the drive.

Bud N' Mary's Marina (MM 78) is one of the most famous marinas in the Keys. Boats head out early each morning for reef and offshore fishing trips, and you'll often see fresh catches coming back in the afternoon. The property also has a small motel, bait shop, and café. It's a good place to book a charter, meet a captain, or just walk the docks.

Anne's Beach (MM 73.5) is a small public oceanside beach where you can stretch your legs if you've been driving for a while. Bring a towel, take a walk on the boardwalk, and enjoy the water.

Where To Eat in Islamorada

• Breakfast: Mangrove Mike's (MM 82) for a quick diner-style breakfast, or The Green Turtle Inn (MM 81) for a more upscale start to the day.
• Waterside Lunch: Robbie's Marina (MM 77). Feed giant tarpon from the dock and browse the waterfront shops before grabbing lunch at the Hungry Tarpon Restaurant.
• Lunch on the Bay: Marker 88 (MM 88) iis a great stop for waterfront dining with wide bay views. A few miles south, Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar(MM 82) is a more casual lunch spot. Both places are also known for happy hour and beautiful sunset views.
• Cuban Lunch or Dinner: Habanos Oceanfront (MM 73). serves excellent Cuban-American food at reasonable prices. Order the fried yellowtail snapper with black beans, rice, and tostones for a true taste of the Keys.
• Waterfront Seafood: The Square Grouper (MM 80), is a popular spot for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere. It's open for lunch, happy hour, and dinner.
• Steak Dinner: Ziggy and Maddog's (MM 83) or Chef Michael's (MM 82) are great choices for a more traditional sit-down dinner. Both restaurants serve excellent seafood and steaks. Ziggie's has a full bar, while Chef Michael's offers beer and wine.

Dock behind Bass Pro Shop in Islamorada

The Middle Keys

The Middle Keys lie between Islamorada and Marathon. This stretch of the drive passes small neighborhoods, marinas, and short strips of shops along the highway. Along the way you'll see fishing boats, local restaurants, parks, and a few small beaches.

Duck Key

Duck Key (MM 61) is a small island community best known for Hawks Cay Resort, a large waterfront resort with a marina, pools, and several restaurants.

Long Key State Park(MM 67.5) sits on the oceanside of the Middle Keys. The park has walking trails, shoreline campsites, and beautiful views of the Atlantic.

Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida

Marathon

Marathon sits right in the middle of the Florida Keys, about halfway between Key Largo and Key West. It's one of my favorite towns in the Keys, with great restaurants, fishing docks, a small airport, and what many people consider the best beach in the Keys.

• Breakfast: The Wooden Spoon (MM 50.5) is a longtime local diner in Marathon known for big breakfasts, strong coffee, and friendly service. It's a good place to fuel up before heading across the Seven Mile Bridge.
• Lunch: Key Fisheries (MM 35) for a classic Keys-style outdoor bar and restaurant on the water.
• Dinner: Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House (MM 48.5)serves excellent food in a traditional sit-down setting. For a waterside meal, try Sunset Grill and Raw Bar (MM 47).
• Cuban Coffee/Lunch: La Niña (MM 48) La Niña (MM 48) sits right on the Overseas Highway. It's a quaint little spot where I like to stop for a café con leche on my way to Key West. I haven't eaten there yet, but everything looks fresh and the prices are low.

Things to Visit in Marathon

• Dolphin Research Center (MM 58.9) offers dolphin encounters and educational programs.
• Curry Hammock State Park at (MM 56.2) is a quiet spot for kayaking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural shoreline.
• Sombrero Beach (MM 50) is one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. It's a beautiful spot with palm trees, ocean views, and plenty of space for swimming or picnicking.
• The Turtle Hospital (MM 48.5) is a great place to see giant sea turtles up close. The facility rescues injured turtles and offers guided tours explaining how they are rehabilitated before being released back into the ocean.

Seven Mile Bridge (MM 47-40) is one of the most famous parts of Overseas Highway, connecting Marathon to the Lower Keys. For nearly seven miles you drive across open water with wide views on both sides.

Shopping in Marathon

If you need groceries, beach supplies, or a quick stop during your drive through the Florida Keys, there are several convenient places to shop in Marathon.

Most of the main stores are clustered around Mile Marker 50, making it an easy stop for groceries, clothing, and supplies.

• Publix and Winn-Dixie (MM 50) are good places to pick up groceries, deli sandwiches, snacks for the road, or supplies for your vacation rental.
• Bealls Outlet (MM 50) is a discount store similar to TJ Maxx that carries clothing, toys, and housewares.
• The Sandal Factory (MM 50)sells souvenirs, T-shirts, sweatshirts, and swimwear.
• Nearby you'll also find Habitat for Humanity ReStore, a nonprofit shop that sells gently used furniture, appliances, and household goods at discounted prices.

DK's Beach Boutique in Key Colony Beach (MM 53) is one of my favorite shops. It's just off US-1 at Sadowski Causeway and has a great selection of men's, women's, and kids' clothing, along with gifts and beachwear.

Isla Bella Beach Resort

My Favorite Hotel in Marathon

Isla Bella Beach Resort sits at MM 47 in Marathon, just before the Seven Mile Bridge. The resort stretches across 24 acres with more than a mile of waterfront. Every room faces the ocean, and there are five pools where you can relax in the sun.

At the front of the resort there's a market shop open to the public. Inside you'll find a Starbucks, snacks, old-fashioned candy, resort clothing, toys, and gifts. It's a nice place to stop, stretch your legs, and grab a coffee before continuing the drive.

As you drive south across the Seven Mile Bridge, look for Fred the Tree at Mile Marker 41 on the left.

Fred is a lone tree growing out of the old bridge, and locals decorate it every Christmas. He even has his own Facebook page and has become a bit of a legend in the Florida Keys.

Lower Keys

Once you pass Marathon, the drive starts to feel different. Things slow down and the laid-back Keys atmosphere really kicks in. Key West is about an hour away.

Along the way you'll pass islands like Summerland Key, Big Torch Key, Little Torch Key, Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key, Big Coppitt Key, Stock Island, and finally Key West.

Keep an eye out for Key deer, a small native species found only in the Lower Keys. They are tiny and very cute, but they often cross the road, so drive carefully in this area.

Bahia Honda State Park

Big Pine Key

I highly recommend stopping at Bahia Honda State Park (MM 37), about 30 minutes north of Key West. This is where I go to relax, and I try to visit at least once a month. The park has miles of beach and beautiful views of the old Henry Flagler railroad bridge.

There are a few smaller beaches in Key West, but many visitors consider Bahia Honda one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. It's known for its wide sandy shoreline and clear turquoise water, something you don't see everywhere in the Keys.

Another stop in the area is Good Foods Conspiracy (MM 30), a small natural food store, juice bar, and deli in Big Pine Key. I often stop in for a cup of celery juice when I'm driving south. They also sell supplements and healthy lunches.

Cudjoe Key (MM 22) is home to the Southernmost Square Grouper restaurant, the sister location to the original in Islamorada. Just north of the restaurant is their beautiful coffee shop, Morning Joint, located at MM 22.8.

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa sits off Little Torch Key at MM 28.5 and is one of the best-kept secrets in the Florida Keys. You can only reach it by boat or seaplane, which keeps it quiet and private. With thatched bungalows, gourmet food, and a peaceful shoreline, this luxury resort is the most expensive stay in the Keys, and people come here for a true escape.

Baby's Coffee has been roasting gourmet beans in Key West since 1991. Located right on Overseas Highway at MM 15, it's an iconic stop where you can grab coffee, snacks, and stretch your legs before continuing the drive.

Hogfish Bar and Grill

Stock Island

Right before you reach Key West, you'll pass through Stock Island, a working waterfront that still feels like old Florida.

Stock Island sits just east of Key West and is known for commercial fishing, marinas, and boatyards. You'll often see shrimp boats at the docks and small seafood spots serving fish that came off the water that morning.

One local favorite is Hogfish Bar & Grill, an open-air seafood restaurant located right on the docks at Safe Harbor Marina. It's a relaxed place with a big bar and a reputation as a true locals' hangout.

Right next door is Keys Fresh Seafood Market. They sell fresh local seafood and ship nationwide. If you're buying fish, ask what came in that day and pick the freshest catch.

For breakfast or lunch, stop by Croissants de France, a small French bakery known for its croissants, pastries, and sandwiches.

Driving Duval Street, Key West

Key West

Last but not least, Key West. As you drive down Overseas Highway and enter town, the road comes to an end and you'll have the option to turn right or left.

Hopefully you already know where you're headed. If not, just put Duval Street into your GPS and you'll probably find what you came to see.

Key West Attractions

When you arrive in Key West, slow down and enjoy the island. Eat fresh fish, grab a slice of key lime pie, and have a Cuban coffee.

Start with a walk down Duval Street, the main street in Key West. It's lined with shops, cafés, and art galleries. Be sure to stop at the Southernmost Point Buoy for the classic photo.

At the southern end of the street you'll find the Southernmost Point Buoy, one of the most photographed spots in Key West. It marks the southernmost point in the continental United States, just 90 miles from Cuba.

In the evening, head to Mallory Square for the sunset celebration. Street performers, food vendors, and the beautiful sunset make it one of the most popular things to do in Key West.

If you want to get on the water, try snorkeling or a sunset sail. The reef around Key West is beautiful. You can also kayak through the mangroves in shallow, clear water.

On land, visit the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory on Duval Street. Inside the glass conservatory you'll see hundreds of butterflies and exotic birds, including flamingos.

You can also tour the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where Hemingway lived and wrote. The famous six-toed cats still live there. Go early because there is often a line.

If you have extra time in Key West, consider a trip to Dry Tortugas National Park. Located about 70 miles west of Key West, the park is known for its clear water, coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson. Visitors usually reach the island by ferry, seaplane, or private boat. It's one of the most unique national parks in the United States and a popular day trip from Key West.

Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville Cafe

Try These Florida Keys Recipes

If you love the food in the Florida Keys, you can make many of the same dishes at home. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Key Lime Pie
• Florida Smoked Fish Dip
• Pan Seared Snapper
• Blackened Tripletail
• Boiled Key West Pink Shrimp with Old Bay
• More fresh seafood recipes.