MMYKANO

Florida Keys road trip
  • April 16, 2025
  • admin
  • 0

The Florida Keys, a breathtaking string of 800 tropical islands stretching over 120 miles off Florida’s southern tip, offer the ultimate road trip destination. While Key West often steals the spotlight, the 73-mile stretch between Key Largo and Marathon delivers an unforgettable experience brimming with adventure, marine life, fresh seafood, and sun-soaked relaxation.

This 7-day Florida Keys road trip itinerary highlights the best stops in Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon. Whether you’re a beach bum, water sports enthusiast, foodie, or nature lover, this guide will help you make the most of a week in paradise.

Day 1: Islamorada – Breakfast, Catboat Cruise & Tarpon Feeding

Breakfast at Mangrove Mike’s
Kick off your journey at Mangrove Mike’s, a funky Islamorada diner beloved by locals. You can’t go wrong with the Cinnamon Roll Sandwich—a sweet-and-savory explosion—or the Brie & Raspberry Breakfast Sandwich for something truly unique.

Catboat Tour with Spray Watersports
Explore Islamorada’s clear waters aboard a stable, easy-to-navigate catboat. Cruise through mangrove tunnels, spot marine life like manatees and nurse sharks, and float by luxury homes in the Venetian Isles.

Lunch at Island Grill
Refuel with Tuna Nachos (a fan favorite) and Stone Crab Soup. This waterfront gem offers a relaxed setting with top-notch seafood.

Beach Time at Founders Park
Unwind at one of the Keys’ rare sandy beaches. Founders Park features shallow, calm waters perfect for a swim, as well as picnic areas, showers, and a playground for families.

Happy Hour at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar
Enjoy $3 craft beers like the local Spiny Lobster IPA and indulge in a slice of frozen Key Lime Pie as the sun sets.

Dinner at Hog Heaven
End the day with smoky barbecue, live music, and epic sunset views. Try the Pit Master Plate with brisket, ribs, and all the fixings.

Day 2: Deep-Sea Fishing & Fossil Parks

Fishing Charter with First Choice Charters
Islamorada is the sportfishing capital of the world. Spend the morning chasing mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo. Some charters even cook your catch onboard!

Lunch at Wahoo’s Bar & Grill
Bring your fresh catch to Wahoo’s, where they’ll prepare it blackened, grilled, or “lazy day” style. Pair it with fries and a cold beer for the perfect Florida lunch.

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Explore ancient coral formations and learn about the region’s geological past at this lesser-known but fascinating park.

Sunset at Robbie’s Marina
Head back to Robbie’s to feed the giant tarpon and sip on cocktails by the water. Watch out for sneaky pelicans!

Day 3: Marathon – Sea Turtles, Snorkeling & Sunset Dining

Breakfast at The Stuffed Pig
Order the Key Lime Pancakes—they’re as tropical and tangy as the Keys themselves.

Visit The Turtle Hospital
Tour this working rehab center that rescues and treats injured sea turtles. A moving and educational experience for all ages.

Bike Ride on the Old Seven Mile Bridge
Rent e-bikes from Keys Vacation Supply and ride the newly restored bridge out to Pigeon Key, a small island once home to railroad workers. Expect sweeping views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Snorkeling at Horseshoe Beach
Don your mask and fins for a snorkeling session in shallow, fish-filled waters. It’s perfect for beginners and families.

Dinner at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar
Order the Hogfish Sandwich, then sit back with a drink as the sun dips behind the water. The vibe is relaxed, and the food is unforgettable.

Day 4: Key Largo – Snuba Diving & Sunset Bars

Breakfast at Key Largo Conch House
Try the Conch Benedict, which tops a toasted English muffin with lobster, conch ceviche, and hollandaise sauce.

Snuba Diving with Florida Keys Unique Diving
If you’ve ever wanted to breathe underwater without scuba certification, snuba is your answer. Explore Pickles Reef and its dazzling array of coral and tropical fish.

Sunset at Caribbean Club
As the oldest bar in the Upper Keys, the Caribbean Club is a historic spot with live music and unbeatable sunset views.

Day 5: Glass-Bottom Boats & Wild Birds

Glass-Bottom Boat Tour (Key Largo Princess)
Cruise over the beautiful Molasses Reef without getting wet. Great for families or those who prefer dry feet.

Lunch at Hobo’s Cafe
Order the Lobster Bisque, which is packed with tender seafood and full-bodied flavor.

Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
Meet rescued birds like pelicans, hawks, and owls at this peaceful sanctuary. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.

Dinner at Bayside Grill
Try the Havana Fries—crispy yucca fries topped with pulled pork, cheese, and creamy sauce. It’s Keys fusion cuisine at its finest.

Day 6: Kayaking & Fox Sanctuary

Kayaking at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Rent a kayak and paddle through winding mangrove trails. Keep an eye out for iguanas, fish, and herons.

Positive Beginnings Fox Sanctuary
A unique, off-the-beaten-path stop where you can interact with rescued foxes saved from fur farms. An unforgettable experience that supports a good cause.

Dinner at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen
Finish the day with a hearty meal and a slice of their legendary Key Lime Pie—arguably the best in the Keys.

Day 7: Farewell Key Largo

Sunrise at Ocean Pointe Suites
Enjoy your last morning in paradise with a beachside sunrise and coffee in hand.

Breakfast at Harriette’s Restaurant
Don’t miss the Shrimp & Grits, a spicy and flavorful Southern-inspired breakfast dish.

A Slice of Paradise

This 7-day Florida Keys road trip itinerary is packed with unforgettable adventures, from snorkeling vibrant reefs to savoring the best seafood in the state. Whether you’re feeding tarpon, biking the 7-Mile Bridge, or petting a rescued fox, the Keys offer something for every type of traveler.

Pro Tips for Your Florida Keys Road Trip:

  • Best time to visit: November to April for dry weather and mild temperatures
  • Avoid hurricane season: June to October can be hot and stormy
  • Rent a convertible or Jeep: Embrace the island breeze
  • Book excursions early: Especially fishing charters and water sports
  • Pack reef-safe sunscreen: Protect the coral reefs

So, are you ready to hit the road? The Florida Keys are calling. From sunrise in Key Largo to sunsets in Marathon, this island-hopping adventure promises the ultimate tropical escape.

Let your Florida Keys road trip begin! 🌴🚗

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *