Picture yourself cruising with the windows down, the salty breeze tangling your hair as turquoise waters stretch endlessly on both sides. Welcome to the Overseas Highway, a 113-mile marvel of U.S. Route 1 that leaps across 42 bridges from Key Largo to Key West, Florida, often called the “Highway that Goes to Sea.” This isn’t just a road—it’s a sun-soaked adventure through the Florida Keys, where every mile marker unveils coral reefs, quirky pit stops, and views that make your heart skip a beat. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or dreaming of snorkeling in an underwater paradise, this iconic drive delivers a slice of tropical magic you won’t soon forget.
Trip Advisor / Maladebordoporai
What We Love
Seven Mile Bridge Thrills
Feel your pulse race as you glide across the 6.79-mile Seven Mile Bridge, surrounded by nothing but ocean and sky. The endless blue horizon makes you feel like you’re floating, and spotting dolphins below is pure magic. Pull over at the old bridge’s end to walk to Pigeon Key for a historic twist.
Snorkeling in Key Largo
Dive into John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (MM 102.5), where vibrant reefs teem with fish and the “Christ of the Abyss” statue beckons underwater explorers. Glass-bottom boat tours offer a family-friendly peek at this aquatic wonderland. You’ll leave with a grin and a craving for more sea adventures.
Tarpon Feeding Frenzy
At Robbie’s of Islamorada (MM 77.5), toss fish to massive tarpons swirling in the shallows while pelicans swoop for scraps. The splashy chaos is a thrill for all ages, and the dockside vibe feels like a party. It’s a quick, unforgettable stop that screams Florida Keys.
Key Lime Pie Pit Stops
Indulge in zesty key lime pie at spots like Blond Giraffe in Tavernier (MM 92.3) or Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo (MM 99.7). Each creamy, tangy slice is a taste of the Keys’ soul, served with a side of quirky decor. You’ll debate which spot reigns supreme all the way to Key West.
Sunset at Mile Marker 0
End your drive in Key West at the Southernmost Point Buoy, where the sunset paints the sky in pink and orange hues. Join the lively crowd at Mallory Square for street performers and a celebration that feels like the world’s best block party. It’s the perfect finale to your road trip.
What to Do Nearby
In Key Largo, explore Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park for serene trails. In Marathon, visit the Turtle Hospital to meet rescued sea turtles. Key West’s Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum offers a literary detour, while Bahia Honda State Park (MM 37) boasts pristine beaches for a swim.
Atmosphere & Setting
The Overseas Highway hums with a laid-back, island-hopping vibe that’s equal parts exhilarating and chill. You’re surrounded by the Atlantic’s turquoise shimmer on one side and the Gulf of Mexico’s emerald glow on the other, with palm trees swaying and ospreys soaring overhead. The road’s 42 bridges, from the sleek Jewfish Creek to the historic Bahia Honda, create a rhythm of open water and tiny coral isles. The air smells of salt and sunscreen, with calypso tunes or steel drums spilling from roadside bars. It’s a drive that feels like a love letter to freedom, where every mile marker whispers, “Slow down and savor this.”
Value (Is It Worth It?)
The Overseas Highway is free to drive, though gas for the 113-mile journey from Key Largo to Key West (about 2.5 hours one way) and optional stops add up. Expect $10–$30 for activities like tarpon feeding or pie slices, while snorkeling tours at Pennekamp run $30–$100. A full round-trip day from Miami (4 hours each way) or a leisurely 2–3 day Keys adventure offers great bang for your buck. It’s perfect for families, couples craving romance, or solo travelers seeking epic views. Rent a convertible for extra flair (around $100/day), and download the Florida Keys app for free audio tours to maximize the fun.
Parking is easy at most stops, with free or cheap lots at attractions like Pennekamp or Robbie’s. The highway’s open 24/7, but stick to daylight for the best views and safety—speed limits drop to 35 mph in towns and hit 55 mph on open stretches, with police patrolling. The road is paved and flat, but narrow bridges may spook those wary of heights; accessibility varies at stops. Pack sunscreen, bug spray, and water for summer heat, and avoid hurricane season (June–October) for smoother travels. Grab seafood at The Fish House (MM 102.4) or tacos at Islamorada’s beachside cafes; outside food is fine for picnics. Pro tip: avoid weekends for lighter traffic, and check the Monroe County Sheriff’s app for real-time crash alerts.
The Overseas Highway is a bucket-list drive that weaves adventure, beauty, and Keys quirkiness into every mile, leaving you starry-eyed and sun-kissed. Gas up, roll the windows down, and let this tropical road trip steal your heart.
Overseas Highway
📍 103900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037