Picture yourself driving down the winding road with the ocean stretching out as far as the eye can see on one side and the lush greenery of the Florida Keys on the other. All by yourself.
Either with your own car or, like I did, chill on the famous Greyhound bus for a few hours with no worries.
Taking an epic solo road trip from Key West to Miami is the perfect endeavor for sun-loving solo travelers. Not only does it boast stunning scenery, but it also offers unique cultural experiences along the way.
Key West to Miami
Find out why a road trip from Key West to Miami should be on every traveler’s bucket list, including the sights to see along the way, the delicious cuisine to savor, and the ways to travel!
Driving from Key West to Miami with no stops will take around four hours, a distance of around 166 miles. But of course, you should not just drive straight down!
Stop to take in the sights and scenery along the iconic coastal highway on your way south. With your own car, that is super easy, but you can make stops if you choose the Greyhound bus, too.
Options for Transportation: Bus, Private Transfer, or Rental Car
When planning your road trip from Key West to Miami, one of the most important decisions to make is how to get there. There are several options available to suit any travel style and budget.
For those who prefer to sit back and relax, taking a bus or taxi is a great option.
The Greyhound bus service operates multiple times a day between Key West and Miami, with comfortable seating and onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi.
Pre-booked private transfers are a popular choice for a more personalized experience. You can book a private car or van with a driver to take you from Key West to Miami, with the added benefit of being able to make stops along the way.
Finally, for those who want complete control over their itinerary, renting a car is the way to go. This is a great option if you want the freedom to see more of the sights between the two cities.
No matter which option you choose, this road trip is a journey worth taking in itself.
And with transportation sorted, you can focus on all the amazing sights and experiences you’ll encounter along the way.
Next up, let’s take a look at some of the top sights to see on this epic trip!
The Stunning Scenery Along The Way
The ocean views are nothing short of breathtaking, and the lush greenery of the Florida Keys adds a touch of natural beauty to your journey.
Driving down the Overseas Highway you’ll see a variety of landscapes – from rocky shorelines to white sand beaches. There are plenty of scenic spots to pull over and snap a photo, so be sure to have your camera ready.
You can stop in any of the other small charming Florida Keys along the way, like Kudjoe Key, Big Pine Key, Maraton, Vaca Key, and Key Largo (the long key, you will see why!).
As you near Miami, the scenery changes once again, and the city skyline comes into view.
The contrast between the natural beauty of the Keys and the urban landscape of Miami is striking, and it’s a testament to the diversity of attractions you can experience in this part of Florida.
23 brilliant things to do solo in Miami
Sights to See From Key West To Miami
Here are just a few sights you won’t want to miss along the way, starting in Key West.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: For literary fans, a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West is an absolute must.
Walk in the footsteps of one of America’s greatest writers and see the home where he wrote some of his most famous works.
The iconic Seven Mile Bridge has been featured in an unknown number of movies and shows, and with the stunning views from this stretch, it is easy to see why.
They are truly breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters stretching out as far as the eye can see.
Bahia Honda State Park: Located just a short drive from the Seven Mile Bridge, this state park is a must-see for nature lovers.
Here, you’ll find crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, as well as white sand beaches that are perfect for lounging.
Finally, you find the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo before you hit the mainland.
Next up, we’ll take a closer look at the unique culture and cuisine you’ll encounter in each destination.
The Unique Culture and Cuisine in Each Destination
The Key West to Miami road trip offers not only stunning natural beauty but also a chance to experience the unique culture and cuisine of each destination.
In Key West, the laid-back island vibe is infused with Cuban and Caribbean influences.
You’ll find delicious seafood dishes, including the famous conch fritters, and a thriving arts scene with galleries and street performers.
Stop for lunch at the Big Pine Rooster in Big Pine Key, and stop in Marathon to explore the local seafood markets or try your hand at catching your own dinner during a fishing excursion.
This key also boasts a thriving turtle hospital, where you can see the rehabilitation of injured sea turtles up close.
In Key Largo, you can have amazing seafood at The Catch Restaurant & Bar before you leave the Florida Keys behind and close up on the mainland and Miami.
Arriving In Miami
Miami, on the other hand, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis with a strong Latin American influence; I have seen a number of up to 70% Cubans inhabiting this part of Florida!
Be sure to stop in Little Havana while you are in Miami; this vibrant neighborhood is known for its colorful murals, delicious food, lively music scene, and a lot of Cubans playing domino in the parks!
You can sample authentic Cuban cuisine and dance the night away to live salsa music.
Art lovers will appreciate the Wynwood city district, as well as the city’s world-class museums and galleries, while fashionistas can indulge in high-end shopping at designer boutiques Downtown.
Even though you left the tranquil keys behind, white and wide Miami Beach offers a different beach experience close to shopping, restaurants, bars, parks, and fancy beach clubs like Nikki Beach!
Wrap-Up Key West To Miami
These are just a few of the many sights and experiences waiting for you on your road trip from Key West to Miami in Florida. So choose your transport, buckle up, and get ready for an amazing trip!
The amazing scenery, culture, and cuisine are sure to be an unforgettable experience.
A road trip from Key West to Miami, whether by bus, car, or donkey, should definitely be at the top of your to-visit list.
Related blog posts:
Best Florida Keys Jet Ski Rentals: Exhilarating Adventure From An Expert Traveler
9 Best Places For Snorkeling in Marathon Florida By A Local
Key West vs Key Largo Solo: Ultimate Guide From A Solo Female Traveler!