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Are you planning a Florida Keys road trip? From what to do, where to eat and where to stay, this is my 7 day itinerary for the Florida Keys!
The Florida Keys have been on my Florida bucket list for ages for its beautiful beaches and tropical vibes. I feel like when families are visiting Florida they want to do two things – the parks and the Keys (which is exactly what my parents did when I was 5-years-old!)
On our last trip to Florida, we explored New Smyrna Beach and the Kennedy Space Center. That ticks off one of the major parks (I think everyone should go to the Kennedy Space Center, it’s absolutely brilliant), so that left the Keys.
Well, finally we managed to do an epic Florida Keys road trip, and it was everything I thought it would be.
I’ve always been drawn to places where life slows down, where the sun kisses the ocean, and where adventure is just a beach walk away. The Florida Keys offer all this and more – vibrant coral reefs, laid-back island vibes, and sunsets that paint the sky in hues of pink and gold.
In this 7 day itinerary for the Florida Keys, I’ll go into all the best things to do here. I’ll even let you know where we stayed too. Don’t worry, I’ve taken care of everything in this Florida Keys guide!
From swimming in the tropical waters of Bahia Honda State Park to bar hopping in Key West, I’ll tell you all about those spots you just can’t miss.
Why visit the Florida Keys? For anyone seeking a slice of paradise, the answer is simple. Hopefully you’ll see that in this blog post.
Contents:
Getting to the Florida Keys
Getting to the Florida Keys was a lot easier than I thought.
Flying from London Heathrow to Miami took around 8 hours. If you’re flying with kids, then you can read all about my top tips on flying with a baby. Trust me – I’ve been there, I’ve done it, so this article will really help.
Once at Miami International Airport, we picked up our hire car and drove south. Now I thought the Florida Keys were hours away, but the drive from the airport to Key Largo (the first of the Keys) only takes 1h:10. That means you can easily do the drive as soon as you land without having to break up the journey.
Alternatively, if you are looking at breaking up the journey, especially if you’re travelling with kids, then the place to stop is Homestead. This is about 40 minutes from the airport, so is nice and easy to get to.
Weather in the Florida Keys
One of the best things about travelling to Florida is the weather. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, there’s a reason its known as the Sunshine State. Basically, you’re guaranteed good weather whenever you go.
We came in July, peak summer. Now the downside to this time of year is it’s super-hot. Daily averages were around 34°C with humidity hovering around 75%. Hot and sweaty. However, the best thing about travelling at this time of year is the Florida Keys are A LOT quieter as it’s low season. This also means you’re more likely to score some good deals on accommodation too. I love the heat, so I much preferred the fact it was quieter than at other times of the year.
7 Day Itinerary for the Florida Keys
Day 1
I think your first day in the Florida Keys should be all about relaxing and taking it easy. You’ve done the 8-hour flight, now it’s time to really enjoy yourself by the pool with a cocktail or two. This is a nice introductory day to the Keys.
Activity: Paddleboarding
If you can drag yourself away from the pool, I’d recommend going paddleboarding. We stayed at La Siesta Resort & Marina on Islamorada (more on that below), but this place has an activity centre where you can take out kayaks, paddleboards or bikes, all for free.
I absolutely love paddleboarding wherever I am in the world, but it’s on another level when it’s in the tropical waters of the Keys. Because the water is so shallow surrounding the islands, there aren’t any waves. The water is like glass, and it’s so chilled. If you’ve never been paddleboarding before, this is the perfect place to give it a go.
Activity: Florida Keys Brewing & Distillery
If you like your craft beers and cocktails, then I’d really recommend visiting Florida Keys Brewing & Distillery. As you’d expect with any brewery in Florida, this one is all about the sunshine and tropical flavours. You can even get a key lime beer which was surprisingly tasty. Just to make sure I tried a range of beers, I got a tasting flight, all in the name of research of course.
With a variety of unique, refreshing brews on tap and small-batch rums and gins distilled on-site, there’s something for every palate. Plus, the beer garden around the back is a little oasis tucked away.
Eat: Amara Cay Resort
The sister resort of La Siesta is Amara Cay, a short 10-minute walk down the road. Don’t worry though, there’s a shuttle that’ll wizz you between the two properties.
This resort is a bit bigger and has its own restaurant which is where we ate on our first day in the Florida Keys. We had a delicious burrata salad to start with heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, basil and olive oil. We then shared the local yellowtail snapper with cilantro rice and a tomato-caper sauce. Both dishes were fantastic, and a taste of what was to come from our Florida Keys road trip.
Stay: La Siesta Resort & Marina
Staying at La Siesta Resort & Marina is like stepping into a tropical paradise. Nestled in Islamorada, this charming resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Guests are treated to stunning oceanfront views, spacious rooms, and a private beach where you can soak up the sun or enjoy a peaceful sunset. We stayed in one of the colourful beachfront villas (when I say colourful, I really mean it as you’ll see in my photos). It was so lovely waking up each morning and walking out the door onto the beach.
As I’ve already mentioned, the marina provides easy access to water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, making it ideal for ocean lovers. I really loved La Siesta Resort. It was the perfect place for us and it really captures the essence of the Keys.
Day 2
Day 2 should be about exploring Islamorada and Lower Matecumbe Key. I really liked Islamorada, it might even be my favourite island in the Keys (partly because I saw manatees here). Still, there’s lots to do here if you’re willing to step out the resort.
Activity: Transparensea Glass Bottom Boat Tour
One of the top things to do in the Florida Keys is getting on the water. Well, a unique way of exploring the underwater world of the Keys without getting wet is on a Transparensea Glass Bottom Boat Tour.
This tour takes you over the coral reefs where you can discover the colourful marine life through the glass windows in the bottom of the boat. We saw so many tropical fish, and it was fascinating getting an insight into their world while bobbing along the surface.
I really liked being able to interact with the guides and ask them loads of questions to what we were seeing. You can’t do that diving or snorkelling! It was a great activity for our son too – you should’ve seen his little face light up every time a fish swam past.
The boat tour also takes you past Alligator Reef Lighthouse which is a really cool spot for a photo. I don’t think I’ve ever seen water this blue before. It’s bluer than the sky!
Eat: Italian Food Company
One place everyone raves about in Islamorada is the Italian Food Company. Seriously, this place has got quite the reputation. Thankfully it lives up to it, because the food is utterly delicious.
From freshly made pasta to wood-fired pizzas puffing up right in front of your eyes, this place has got all your Italian cravings covered.
We wanted something a little different though, so to start with we shared the beef carpaccio which was surprisingly light, and then I had the lamb chops. The portion was massive but the chops were cooked perfectly. This place really is a must for any foodie visiting the Keys.
Stay: La Siesta Resort & Marina
Day 3
On day 3 we drove from Islamorada all the way down the Key West, the most southern island you can get to. As this is around a 2-hour drive, I’d recommend stopping somewhere like Bahia Honda State Park along the way to break up the journey.
Activity: Bahia Honda State Park
Just an hour from Islamorada is Bahia Honda State Park, a real natural paradise in the Florida Keys. Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, this park offers some of the best snorkelling, swimming, and kayaking in the region.
The iconic Old Bahia Honda Bridge provides a stunning backdrop for photography and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. This used to be the old railway route down to Key West but it became derelict when a new road was built in 1972. To make sure no one else used the bridge, they removed a section of the road turning it into this unique spot.
We arrived early in the morning so we could be the first ones there. After exploring a few of the nature trails and seeing the views at the top of the bridge, it was time for a refreshing dip in the water. The water felt so good! This place really should be on your Florida Keys itinerary. It was well worth the stop off that’s for sure.
Activity: Earnest Hemmingway Museum
After visiting Bahia Honda State Park, we drove onto Key West. After checking into the Ocean Edge Key West Resort & Marina (again, more on that below), we headed into town to spend the afternoon there.
One place Chloe and I really wanted to visit was the Ernest Hemingway Museum. This place is like stepping back in time to the life of one of America’s greatest writers. Set in Hemingway’s former home, this historic site offers a glimpse into his life during the 1930s.
It was really cool being able to wander through rooms filled with original furniture, personal artifacts, and his writing studio, where classics like The Sun Also Rises were penned.
Rich in literary history and charm, the museum provides an intimate look at the life and legacy of this legendary author.
Eat: Half Shell Raw Bar
I really enjoyed eating at the Half Shell Raw Bar. So many restaurants in the Keys have great views overlooking the water, and this one is no different. Down on the waterfront promenade, the Half Shell Raw Bar is a non-nonsense restaurant where you can get your hands dirty eating shellfish and crab.
The lively atmosphere, complete with ocean views and friendly service, makes it a favourite spot for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re enjoying a cold drink at the bar or a full seafood feast, Half Shell Raw Bar captures the essence of Key West dining.
Stay: Ocean Edge Key West Resort & Marina
If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of Key West (things can get pretty rowdy on the weekend or when the cruise ships are in), then the Ocean Edge Key West Resort & Marina is a lovely spot away from it all.
Nestled on the edge of the island, this upscale resort offers breathtaking ocean views, spacious suites, and proper holiday vibes. Guests can unwind by one of the six swimming pools, enjoy water sports right from the private marina, or relax at the bar.
There’s a little activity centre where you can use kayaks or paddleboards. They also run group sessions where they take you around the property which I liked.
Another bonus about staying here is the shuttle service into Key West. It was actually really handy and we used it a couple of times. It meant we could go out and I could actually have more than a glass of wine which was lovely! It’s what holidays are all about!
Day 4
I’d really recommend spending a couple of days in Key West, so I’m going to tell you all about some of the best things to do for days 4 and 5. There is really a lot to do here and you can pack a lot in! Obviously cherry pick your favourite activities from the below.
Activity: Key West Butterfly Garden
If you could see the Key West Butterfly Garden through the eyes of our 18-month-old, you’d love this place as much as we did. Our son is at the age where even a small rock is fascinating. Take him somewhere with tropical trees, where brightly coloured insects he’s only seen in books were suddenly flapping around his head – he couldn’t contain himself with joy.
This lush, tropical oasis is home to hundreds of free-flying butterflies from around the globe, as well as exotic birds like hummingbirds and flamingos. The hummingbirds might’ve been my favourite, but it’s impossible overlooking the bright blue butterflies as they flap past your face.
As you stroll through the garden, you’ll be surrounded by fluttering wings, calming waterfalls, and serene music that creates a peaceful atmosphere. It really is one of the top things to do in the Florida Keys.
Activity: Kermit’s & bar hopping
So you can’t come to the Florida Keys without stuffing your face full of key lime pie. Well, in my opinion, the best key lime pie is from Kermit’s in Key West. They have a few shops dotted all over the place, so you’re never far from one. Now, Kermit’s break the mould a bit and do a coconut key lime pie, a strawberry key lime pie, and a frozen key lime pie slice dipped in chocolate. Don’t get lured in! The classic key lime pie is the best. It’s the original for a reason!
Once you’ve done stuffing your face with pie, then I suggest hitting up some of the bars in Key West. It’s a real viby spot with lots going on. Most bars have live music, and even if no one is playing then you can people-watch. The Roost is a great cocktail bar. And I know it’s touristy, but we went to Sloppy Joe’s (in Hemmingway’s memory of course) and really liked it there!
Eat: Southernmost Beach Café
If you can only eat at one place in Key West, make sure it’s the Southernmost Beach Café. I loved this spot. Not only does it have beautiful views overlooking the water, but it’s got the food to back it up.
Located just steps from the iconic Southernmost Point, this beachfront restaurant serves up fresh, tropical-inspired dishes that capture the flavours of the Keys.
For starters I had the grilled octopus, and it was genuinely the best octopus dish I’ve ever had in my life. It was charred and smoky, with a unctuous salty and spicy sauce, with cubes of pickled apple to bring freshness to the plate. I could seriously eat this dish every day for the rest of my life. Please, eat here, order the octopus, thank me later. The mains were delicious too. All in all, this was such a brilliant restaurant to eat at.
Stay: Ocean Edge Key West Resort & Marina
Day 5
It’s time to explore Key West again! This time, let’s hit up some of the museums. There are quite a few museums here, so pick whichever one takes your fancy. Key West is one of those places where you can easily spend a couple of hours walking around popping into different shops and cafes, so factor that into your itinerary too.
Activity: Mel Fisher Museum or Shipwreck Museum
So by now you know from our Florida Keys road trip that they’re made up of small, shallow islands, that go on and on for a few miles. Well, it turns out they’re hard to sail around too. Over the centuries there have been a fair few shipwrecks (which you can learn all about in the Shipwreck Museum).
However, the one museum I was really fascinated by was the Mel Fisher Museum. This museum showcases the incredible story of Mel Fisher, who spent 16 years searching for the wreck of the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha. Spoiler: he eventually finds it.
Inside, you’ll find a dazzling display of gold, silver, and priceless artifacts recovered from the ocean floor. Interactive exhibits and detailed narratives bring the story of this historic shipwreck and its discovery to life. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the allure of lost treasures, the Mel Fisher Museum offers an unforgettable experience.
Activity: Key West Botanic Gardens
The Key West Botanical Garden is a serene haven showcasing the unique flora of the Florida Keys and the Caribbean. This lush, 15-acre garden is quite rare. As opposed to planting beautiful flowers and trees from around the world, these botanic gardens are dedicated to the native species that grow in the Florida Keys.
Visitors can explore winding trails through diverse habitats, including tropical hardwood hammocks, mangroves, and butterfly gardens. I really enjoyed walking the wooden boardwalks through the trees here – it was all very tranquil, and it felt a million miles away from Key West.
Stay: Ocean Edge Key West Resort & Marina
Day 6
It’s time to leave Key West and head north again. It’s not the end of your trip though! There’s a couple of really cool stops along the way before you need to be back at the airport, so check it out.
Activity: Marathon Turtle Hospital
Let me say this now. There are a lot of animal and marine experiences in Florida that I do not condone. Any activity where you can hold the animals, or where they’re caged – I implore you not to do these. There are even places where you can even swim with dolphins. It’s not humane, so please don’t support them.
However, if you’re looking for an animal experience that is safe and 100% encouraged, then check out the Marathon Turtle Hospital. This place is a sanctuary dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtles.
Visiting this hospital offers a unique and educational experience, where you can learn about the threats facing these endangered creatures and witness their recovery journey firsthand.
I really enjoyed the whole experience, and our son absolutely loved seeing the turtles swim around. Personally, I think it’s so important learning about animal welfare and conservation efforts like this one. And teaching it to our little toddler is something we all need to be doing.
Eat: The Angler & Ale Pub
The Angler & Ale Pub at Hawks Cay Resort is a vibrant spot where fresh seafood and a laid-back atmosphere come together. Overlooking the marina, this pub offers a menu full of local favourites, including the freshest catch of the day which is what I had. It came with a really zingy tropical mango salsa and the fish was perfectly cooked.
When we were there, outside there was some live music which added to the atmosphere. It’s a really lovely spot, so if you’re staying at Hawks Cay then definitely check it out.
Stay: Hawks Cay Resort
We wanted to stay somewhere that was halfway along the Keys so we didn’t have a big drive to Miami airport on the final day. That’s when we found Hawks Cay Resort.
Located on Duck Key, this expansive resort offers a variety of accommodations, from upscale hotel rooms to private villas with waterfront views. I would say this is a very family friend resort – there are five swimming pools, and the kid’s club is great for all ages.
With access to water sports like fishing, paddleboarding and snorkelling, there’s something for the adults too.
Day 7
We headed off to the airport in the morning, but that didn’t stop us from one more stop along the way! We had an early lunch at midday as we didn’t want to eat at the airport. A burger in the airport or one outside in the sunshine by the water? It’s an easy decision!
Eat: The Hungry Tarpon
You know a place is good when people can’t even get into the car park, let alone the restaurant. It seems to me that the Hungry Tarpon has become a bit of a destination in its own right – partly because you can feed the giant tarpon skulking the waters here. Honestly, they are the biggest fish I’ve ever seen. Some of them were over two metres!
Anyway, this laid-back restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood dishes, like mahi-mahi tacos and conch fritters. We shared the shrimp tacos and they were delicious. The best part is while you’re eating you can enjoy watching pelicans and tarpon swim just below the dock. Seriously, the food here is cracking so make sure you add it to your Florida Keys itinerary.
Photos of the Florida Keys
This post was in association with the Florida Keys showcasing some of the best things to do in the area. As always, all views are entirely my own and without bias.
Are you planning your Florida Keys itinerary? If so, what are some of the things you’re looking forward to doing? Let me know if you have any questions at all and I’ll help plan your trip!
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