Driving to the Florida Keys – The Overseas Highway to Key West
Last Updated March 8, 2026
Florida Keys – One of the Best Florida Road Trips
Map of the Florida Keys and the Overseas Highway when driving to the Florida Keys.
Driving to the Florida Keys is not only one of the best Florida road trips, but maybe one of the most famous road trips in the world! The Overseas Highway to Key West is renowned for its stunning scenery, quirky attractions, and laid-back vibe.
There are probably a couple dozen famous cities in the world that everyone either visits or wants to visit. Typically, Paris, Moscow, New York, Hollywood, Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, London and a few others come to mind.
None compare to the worldwide eclectic reputation of Key West and driving through the Florida Keys is the way to get there.
Unfortunately, few people see the REAL Key West the way it should be seen. Walking Duval Street from one end to the other is a good start, but that jaunt does not do much for the history, novelty, or uniqueness of the island. There are dozens of things to do in Key West – you can’t get bored!
The Goal. Getting to the Southernmost Point big red marker. There are some beautiful sights all day long when driving to the Florida Keys, you don’t have to wait for the sunset in Key West.
The most fun way to get to Key West is by driving to the Florida Keys on US Route 1, known as the Overseas Highway through what we call “The Keys”. Keys are islands that populate southern Florida as they protrude out into the Gulf of Mexico to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.
Key West is the last of the islands connected by 42 bridges that we call the Florida Keys. Few highways have more allure than US 1 in the Keys.
Places like Key Largo, Seven Mile Bridge, Hawk’s Cay Resort, and the sports fishing capital of the world, Islamorada, are along this famous road. All of these famous places have international reputations for different things and all are on the only road to Key West – The Overseas Highway.
History of The Overseas Highway
The Overseas Highway, a marvel of modern engineering, stretches 113 miles from mainland Florida to Key West, traversing the Florida Keys via a series of 42 bridges.
You can see parts of the Flagler railroad from the beach at Bahia Honda State Park between Marathon and Big Pine Key.
Its origins trace back to the early 20th century with Henry Flagler’s ambitious Florida East Coast Railway, which reached Key West in 1912. The railway, known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” connected the Keys to the mainland but suffered extensive damage during the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.
The devastation rendered the railway unusable, leading to its abandonment. However, the infrastructure, including bridges and causeways, was repurposed to create a roadway, marking the genesis of the Overseas Highway.
Construction of the Overseas Highway began in the late 1930s, utilizing much of the railway’s original foundation. By 1938, the highway opened to traffic, providing a vital link between the Florida Keys and the rest of Florida. The highway was further improved and expanded in the subsequent decades, with the most significant upgrades occurring in the 1980s.
Today, the Overseas Highway is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its breathtaking vistas, offering travelers an unparalleled journey over the shimmering waters of the Florida Keys.
Overseas Highway, US Route 1 – The Only Road Driving to the Florida Keys and Key West
It doesn’t matter if you drive south from Minnesota, Maine or Miami. You end up on one single Florida road that delivers you from everyday life into a glimpse of paradise!
The fun begins when you enter the islands. Driving from Key Largo to Key West is the ultimate Florida road trip. There are 44 islands and 42 bridges between Key Largo and Key West. We never counted. Just savored every moment of the many trips we have made.
Caribbean Club where Bogart and Bacall made history as you enter Key Largo on the Overseas Highway.
The 100-mile journey begins when you enter Key Largo. But US Route 1 runs 2,369 miles from Fort Kent, Maine to Key West, Florida. The only way onto the islands leading to Key West is by the federal highway US 1 just south of Miami. The road, renamed the Overseas Highway takes you to Key Largo.
A collection of bridges US Route 1, The Overseas Highway, will have you crossing more than three dozen other islands before the last island of Key West.
Mile Markers and Their Importance on Overseas Highway Driving to the Florida Keys
At this point, we need to explain mile markers. They will help you find everything along your Florida Keys drive to Key West. You will see your first marker around number 106 as you enter Key Largo. You have 106-mile markers ahead of you – enjoy it!
The journey through the Florida Keys to Key West is dotted with a variety of captivating attractions that highlight the region’s natural beauty, history, and unique charm. Starting from Key Largo, visitors can explore the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the United States. Further along, Islamorada is known for its world-class sportfishing and the History of Diving Museum.
In Marathon, the Turtle Hospital provides an inspiring visit where guests can learn about sea turtle rehabilitation efforts. Crossing the iconic Seven Mile Bridge brings travelers to Big Pine Key, home to the National Key Deer Refuge.
Finally, arriving in Key West, attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Southernmost Point buoy, and the lively Duval Street ensure a memorable end to the scenic drive. Each stop along the Overseas Highway offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant ecosystem and rich culture of the Florida Keys.
Florida Travel Blog takes you to all of the best attractions while driving in the Florida Keys.
The Reefhouse in Key Largo is a good place to catch the sunset and some sleep.
Make a note that at mile marker 104.1 you will see a sign for the Caribbean Club. If you are thirsty, you might make a stop here.
Caribbean Club’s claim to fame is the 1948 movie, Key Largo, was partially filmed here. Humphrey Bogart may have shared a barstool with you here. The Caribbean club could make our list of the top dive bars in Florida.
On down the road at MM 104 is a better stop if you like tiki bars. Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill serves some rather good food and has a huge tiki bar built over the water on Florida Bay. If you don’t recognize the name, Jimmy Johnson is the former coach of the Dallas Cowboys.
If you are looking for a place to stay before you complete your journey to Key West, the Reefhouse Resort & Marina (formerly the Marriott Resort) at MM103.8 is excellent.
The Reefhouse’s sunset bar, Breezer’s’ is a fabulous place for appetizers and watching the sun creep into the bay. The sunset photo above was taken from the landing at Breezer’s.
A mile down the road is the entrance to John Pennekamp State Park. There is a plethora of state parks in Florida and several along your way to Key West. What makes this one different is that 75 square miles of it is underwater!
There are trails and things to see on shore, but this park is made for snorkelers and divers. It’s worth the stop and the dive for an underwater surprise we won’t spoil here!
The Wild Bird Sanctuary is worth a stop on your road trip to the Keys.
By the time you get to MM (mile marker) 100, you may be getting hungry. If so, look for Skippers Dockside. It is a little off the main road, but the food is better than average. Try the shrimp ceviche for a good Florida appetizer.
Docked on Skipper’s inlet is more Humphrey Bogart film memorabilia. A replica boat featured in the film The African Queen takes people for tours.
Back on the road you will enter the next island town, Tavernier, Florida. At MM 93.6 is the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. The people here do great work rescuing birds injured or entangled by fishing lines or nets. You can see numerous species in the sanctuary rehab center. A kind donation would help preserve the Key’s wildlife.
Former NFL player owns Ocienview in Islamorada on Key West Road Trip.
We must insert a note about things to do in the Keys. The drive along US 1 has all kinds of attractions, sights, unique shops, and places you may want to see. The ones listed here are just a few recommendations along the way.
This Florida road trip has over 100 miles of scenery! If we listed every interesting site and attraction, you would not get to Key West until the following week. We are pointing out a select few to make the drive interesting. If you want a detailed mile-by-mile guide, follow this link. While driving to the Florida Keys you will find many more interesting stops each time you go.
Islamorada Stops on Florida Keys Road Trip
Islamorada, known as the “Village of Islands,” is a picturesque destination in the Florida Keys renowned for its rich maritime heritage and world-class fishing opportunities.
This charming village spans six islands—Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, and the offshore islands of Indian Key and Lignumvitae Key. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back luxury. Anglers from around the globe flock to Islamorada, celebrated as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” to test their skills in both backcountry and deep-sea fishing. The area’s stunning coral reefs and clear waters provide exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences, particularly at the famed Alligator Reef Lighthouse.
Theater of the Sea Gives Insight to Wildlife in the Keys
Theater of the Sea Islamorada is a place to learn about sea life.
At MM 84.2, you will see a big sign on the south side of the road advertising the Theater of the Sea. Try to plan a visit.
The Theater is just that – a tropical stage to interact with dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, fish, sharks, stingrays, alligators, and birds.
The surroundings are a lush tropical setting for learning about Florida aquatic wildlife. It’s a fun and educational couple of hours.
Theater of the Sea is a must-see on any road trip to the Keys or Key West.
Islamorada is the Sportfishing Capital of the World
If you have been observant, the signs will be telling you the city you are in is Islamorada, the sport fishing capital of the world. On the right side of the road (north) is Florida Bay (part of the Gulf of Mexico). The Bay is an estuary for many saltwater species including tarpon, bonefish, mangrove snapper, redfish and snook.
On the left side of the road (south) is the Atlantic Ocean. A few miles offshore, fishermen from all over the world angle for sailfish, marlin, swordfish, wahoo, kingfish, grouper and yellowtail snapper, to name a few of the available trophy fish.
Great tiki bar on your Florida Keys road trip to Key West at Three Waters Resort, formerly the Post Card Inn.
As you leave the Theater of the Sea, just ¼ mile down the road is the Three Waters Resort and Marina, formerly the Post Card Inn. The reason the Three Waters Resort is significant is the huge fleet of fishing charter boats anchored at their very new marina.
The World Wide Sportsman is a great stop for a little shopping and lunch at their restaurant on the water. Don’t miss Hemingway’s boat, the Pilar inside also.
While Three Waters is one of our many favorites, there are dozens of marinas, hotels, resorts, restaurants, and boat dealers along your journey.
On some of the back roads along the way are very quaint bed and breakfast retreats as well as some old fish camps.
The 1935 Hurricane memorial for the 400-plus people who lost their lives is in Islamorada.
How Many Islands and Bridges Are There When Driving the Florida Keys
Bridges along US 1, the Overseas Highway, connect the major islands. There are about 1700 islands in the Florida Keys and just a few dozen bridges. Obviously, most islands are not connected by roads. The outlying islands are a vital part of the estuary of the Keys.
One bridge that is very special is heading over to Matecumbe Key at MM 77.
Robbie’s is a fun stop on your road trip to Key West. Feed tarpon at the docks.
At the far west end of the bridge, you will see a big sign that says ROBBIE’S. Robbie’s has become a major attraction for travelers in the Florida Keys. Thousands of people stop to hand-feed tarpon that weighs more than most teenagers! Make Robbie’s one of your things to do in the Florida Keys.
Robbie’s also has a collection of little tent stores that sell everything from baubles to beads and everything from “Florida” (but mostly made in China!). This is an obligatory stop for the traveling tourist (at least once) to feed the tarpon. If you have kids from 5 to 105, they will love it!
On down the road about ten miles, at MM 67.5, is the Long Key State Park. What a great place to hike, swim, camp, or just stroll around the park. This is one of Florida’s many state parks that is unique because of the Atlantic Ocean view! Who doesn’t want a picnic viewing the Atlantic Ocean?
Before you get tired of walking the ocean side, save some energy for one of the most famous fishing resorts in the world. Hawks Cay Resort is at MM 61.1. If you have ever watched any outdoor fishing shows, Hawks Cay has been featured many times showing the bounty of nearby waters.
Hawks Cay Resort is a sportfishing and family oriented resort.
Hawks Cay is a place for good old-fashioned family fun. The resort has every possible saltwater activity, with a focus on sport fishing. The kids will have fun too with a huge pool, paddle boards and daily activities. The food is exceptional, so lunch on your Florida road trip at Hawks Cay is a great stop.
If you have kids, 5 to 105, The Dolphin Research Center at MM 58.9 is the place to go. This facility is for family fun and they do great work to preserve our dolphin population. They have a research center and a large contained area in Florida Bay where they rehab and train dolphins. The kids can swim with the dolphins (and adults too).
Marathon is Near Half Way on Your Drive to Key West
Crane Point is a fabulous place to learn about the keys and early life.
One big development just before you get to Marathon, Florida is Key Colony Beach at MM 54. This is a community with over 400 homes on a large peninsula out in the Atlantic Ocean. Few communities exist in the Keys of this size.
A quick drive-through might be an interesting glimpse of how people live in this part of paradise!
As a side note, much of Key Colony Beach was destroyed by a hurricane in 1960. It was redeveloped into the city of about 800 people it is today.
By the time you get to MM 53.5, you will be in Marathon, Florida. A city of about 8500 people stretching over several keys (islands), Marathon is known for (of course) fishing, the second largest airport in the Keys, and, most of all, being halfway to Key West!
Notice the many shops, restaurants and businesses with names that start “Halfway….”. There is Halfway Cleaners, Halfway Cafe, Halfway Barber Shop, Halfway Pizza, etc.!
Should you start looking at places to stay in Marathon, consider Tranquility Bay Resort. It is a great place to spend the night to prepare for the second half of driving to the Florida Keys and Key West.
Beautiful place to stay n the bayside, Tranquility Bay.
Perhaps the most interesting place of all the things to do in the Florida Keys we discuss is at MM 50. Crane Point Museum and Nature Center is one of the coolest places in the Keys to find out about the Florida Key’s history, nature and early life in the islands – all in one place!
Crane Point is a privately operated attraction that offers exceptional opportunities to see and feel how it must have been to survive on this strip of land a couple hundred years ago.
Of the nature trails on these 63 acres at Crane Point is one that leads to the Adderley House. This home was built about 1903 from materials found around Vaca Key. It survives today to remind us of the hardships faced by our forefathers. Make time for a couple hours here – it’s worth the visit!
We are just halfway to Key West and some of the best traveling is yet to come! In fact, you will see in the next three miles places like the Stuffed Pig, a great little local’s place for breakfast and lunch, and then you will start seeing signs like the 7 Mile Pizzeria and the 7 Mile Bar & Grill – heads up!
You are coming to the most spectacular views on your entire trip – The Seven Mile Bridge!
Seven Mile Bridge while driving to the Florida Keys and Key West.
Half Way Through the Your Drive to the Florida Keys and Key West
The current Seven Mile Bridge was completed in 1982 and was one of the largest bridges in the world at that time. Alongside the new bridge, you will see the remnants of a bridge Henry Flagler completed for his railroad in 1912.
Built against unbelievable odds and at the cost of a major portion of his fortune from his Standard Oil investments, Flagler’s railroad bridge helped to build much of the lower keys. Flagler’s bridge brought tourists and products to and from Key West leading to twenty-plus years of prosperity.
That prosperity lasted until the Great Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 destroyed the bridge structure. In the face of this destruction, the United States bought the right of way from the railroad and made a bridge for automobile traffic from the remaining structure. The back story and history of the bridge are fascinating, but the real story is in the spectacular views on both sides of the bridge.
Florida Bay on your right and the Atlantic Ocean on your left make keeping your eyes on the road nearly impossible.
You will see ships on the horizon in the Atlantic and bay fishermen looking for snook and tarpon in the shallows. The sparkling blueish-green water laps the pylons of the bridge along with the waves produced by the boat traffic underneath. Sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking! Seven miles is a long way to travel on a bridge, but the time seems but a small few minutes you hate to see end.
Nice beaches, campgrounds and shallow water snorkeling highlight Bahia Honda State Park.
After about 7 miles (imagine that, on the seven mile bridge), the bridge comes to an end! By now you are awestruck with the beauty of the Florida Keys.
But as hard as it is to imagine, at MM 36.8, get ready for a wholly new close-up experience at Bahia Honda State Park. Yes, this park has all the normal things state parks have, hiking, camping, swimming and more. But Bahia Honda offers a unique chance to get in the water and snorkel over the shallows to see another whole world beneath the surface of the ocean.
Bahia Honda is a family favorite due to the relatively shallow water and the ability to give children more than a cursory education about marine life. Relax and look around, your next adventure may just be underwater!
Our family tells stories about their first encounters with the creatures of the sea, and their childhood memories as they became acquainted with the saltwater environment at Bahia Honda.
Key Deer on Big Pine Key are about the size of a large dog. A unique species to Florida.
Sadly, we must move on since you can almost taste the margaritas in Key West an hour or so away.
Big Pine Key and the Key Deer
Across the bridge going south you will start seeing warnings about one of the strangest animals in the Keys – the Key Deer. These dog size animals can be seen day or night on Big Pine Key. They look exactly like their full-sized white-tailed cousins in the woods of the Midwest but are just about one-third the size.
The Key Deer is an endangered species and live only in this area. Their biggest enemy is man and the cars they drive. That is why speed limits are reduced. You must keep a watchful eye out for the deer on the island.
No Name Pub on No Name Key.
While you are on Big Pine Key, and if you aren’t late for happy hour in Key West, you may want to set your GPS for another out island where the No Name Pub resides.
This is a dive bar that has become an institution by selling the idea they are an old bar littered with thousands of dollar bills covering every imaginable inch of its walls. We admit it is a sight to see, but the sight is short-lived once you get on down the road to Key West with dozens of quirky bars!
Dollar bills line the walls at the No Name Pub.
From Big Pine Key to Key West is about 30 miles. It takes about 45 minutes to drive.
If you need to make a stop somewhere you may want to try Boondocks around MM 27 or Mangrove Mamas on down the road, but you are now just about 20 minutes from Stock Island, which we consider part of Key West.
There are a few bars, a naval air station and a couple sights along the way, but few people can bring themselves to stop when they know the excitement of Key West lies just minutes ahead.
You made it Key West welcomes you! Now, look for mile marker 0!
Your Drive to Key West is Done But the Fun Gets Better
We have been to Key West at least 30 times. We haven’t always driven, but time allowing, we would prefer the drive. We try to cross those 42 bridges at least a couple times annually.
No matter how many times you look out the
Sloppy Joe’s Key West may be the icon destination and top of the list of things to do in Key West.
windshield at that final little bridge over a canal that separates Key West from Stock Island, your level of anticipation peaks at a new level.
We always wonder, what has changed in Key West? Something always changes in Key West. Is there a cruise ship in town? Not as many as there were when cruise ships were allowed to go to Cuba.
Any new bars in Key West? There are always new bars! Any old favorites closed? There are always a few that close! That’s Key West – the more it evolves, we find that the evolution really doesn’t change the Conch Republic.
If you fly into Key West International Airport, right beside the baggage retrieval conveyor is a bar! A Rum Runner while waiting for your bags is not all bad – welcome to Key West…… this bar sets the tone for your trip.
The Bars of Key West
The first thing you need to know is there are
Irish Kevin’s is a legend of irreverence in Key West. This is the real Irish Kevin!
about 190 bars on this two-mile by four-mile island – that’s about four times the number of churches – and that’s Key West!
Picking the best bars becomes an occupation for some residents of Key West and an obsession for visitors. You can break “best” down into two categories – ones you have visited and ones you haven’t! We are not convinced there is a BAD bar on the island – just different.
The Famous Bars of Key West a Must-See
There are bars in Key West that have a worldwide reputation. Your friends, neighbors and relatives might think you were strange if you didn’t visit the basic watering holes! Visiting the famous bars of Key West is a quintessential part of experiencing the island’s vibrant and eclectic culture.
These bars are not just watering holes but historic landmarks that have hosted legendary figures and inspired countless stories.
Visiting these famous bars allows travelers to soak in the island’s unique character, meet interesting people, and enjoy a range of local cocktails, making it an unforgettable part of any trip to Key West.are
Captain Tony’s was the original Sloppy Joe’s. See the grouper with the open mouth at the top of the sign? A pastime in Key West is attempting to toss quarters into the grouper’s mouth.
The List of Bars To See in Key West
Sloppy Joe’s – Of course, at the top of the list is world-famous Sloppy Joe’s. Once frequented by Ernest Hemingway, it offers a taste of literary history alongside live music and lively crowds.
Irish Kevin’s – One door away on Duval Street is Irish Kevin’s, where their irreverence isn’t a place for kids or delicate ears.
Hog’s Breath Saloon -North a couple blocks is the entertainment venue known Hog’s Breath Saloon.
Captain Tony’s -Just west of Sloppy Joe’s on Greene Street is the original Sloppy Joe’s, now called Captain Tony’s. It is a legend that Sloppy Joe Russell, Ernest Hemingway, and some other bar slugs moved everything one night in 1937 from Captain Tony’s location to the current location a half block away. The landlord wanted to raise the rent a dollar a week!
The Green Parrot on Whitehead Street. They have commercialized their quirkiness to the point you can’t even find a seat anymore. The Parrot generally has some good nightly music despite the new public image.
The Half Shell Raw Bar is the place for some of the freshest oysters and clams in Key West.
The Half Shell Raw Bar – also became super popular when the Key West Express started dumping hundreds of tourists off at their doorstep over at Key West Bight Marina.
La Te Da – Perhaps, the most famous drag queen performances in the country go on at La Te Da several nights a week and they have their own hotel nearby.
Rick’s complex of three bars on Duval – includes Durty Harry’s, The Tree Bar and Rick’s are all great places to people watch. Our favorite is the little dozen seat Tree Bar since it’s directly across the street from SloppynJoe’s and Irish Kevin’s. The sights are better than an Oscar winning movie!
Bars Where the Locals’ Go
This list will include some names that could be in the category above. For the most part, they are a little more off the beaten path, eclectic (a nice word for a dive), or very different in their own way.
Schooner Wharf – At the top of this list is a patch of gravel-covered ground on the waterfront at Key West Bight Marina. A half dozen dilapidated structures they call the Schooner Wharf.
Shots and Giggles Key West is a locals’ hangout we love.A group of young ladies celebrating a 21st birthday at Shots and Giggles.
ShShots and Giggles –Moving towards Duval Street on Green Street about 3 blocks west to a relatively new place called Shots and Giggles. Open a few years, my understanding is the bar is owned by locals who wanted a place for their friends on the island.
The Bull – On Caroline Street and Duval, is a three-story building that houses three establishments – The Bull, Whistle Bar and Garden of Eden.
This three-story building hosts three unique bars, including The Bull.
We saw a review on a website saying this building was great because they have three options in the same building.
That may apply to some people, but a person with a body like ours has no business in the clothing-optional Garden of Eden!
The Bull is our favorite place for people-watching along Duval Street!
Mary Ellen’s Bar -In an alley off Duval, this place is not for your children or your 80 year old mother-in-law who is going to judge you!
It is just a back-street bar that has a ton of locals who find some curious ways to promote their evening events.
This tiny bar, the Chart Room, may have had a lot of important decisions made by city leaders in the past.
The Chart Room – In the Pier House Hotel. We hate to even publicize the next place! It’s very small, already full of locals, regular travelers and city leaders who used to make their plans over a cocktail or two at the tiny bar. We call it The Peanut Bar.
The Best Restaurants in Key West
Most of the bars mentioned above aren’t known for their food.
Sloppy Joe’s is a slight exception since they serve Key West pink shrimp. These shrimp are only found in certain deep waters around the Keys.
The pinks have a mild, sweet flavor and a pink shell. Once you have tried them, you will know the flavor. Many restaurants serve Key West pinks but ask to be certain.
All the rest of the restaurants are known for their fresh seafood caught in local waters. Grouper, yellowtail snapper, mahi are the main species offered. We can’t forget Florida lobster which is nothing like its cold water lobster cousin.
Best Restaurants in Key West for Upscale Dining
We list these in our order of preference:
Louie’s Backyard at the south end ofLatitudes is our favorite restaurant in Key West. Unfortunately, it is difficult to get reservations since it is one of the best restaurants in Key West. This is their waiting area on the island where you won’t mind waiting.Duval Street, near the southernmost point, is our favorite. Louie’s has been serving Caribbean-style entrees for over 50 years. The restaurant is in an old Victorian home with a magnificent ocean view. I am told the same award-winning chef has been there for 30 years. Near southenrmost buoy.
A&B Lobster House – On the other end of the island at Key West Bight Marina, you will find A & B. Not many restaurants can say they have been around since right after World War II, but A&B has been serving exquisite seafood for that long.
Hot Tin Roof – At 0 Duval Street in the Ocean Key House Hotel.Santiago’s Bodega – We love the tapas-style dining offered here on the northwest side of Key West.La Trattoria – Best Italian food on the island. Duval Street.
Latitudes – This actually would be our favorite restaurant in Key West if you could go there often. You MUST make reservations well ahead of time since you must travel by boat behind the Opal Resort. Sometimes reservations are necessary two to three weeks in advance. Great food, an excellent short boat ride to a small island across from Mallory Square.
We suggest reservations at all of these restaurants. They stay very busy year-round.
The Best Casual Dining in Key West
Casual restaurants are ones you can go in comfort. They include breakfast, lunch and dinner restaurants in Key West that generally don’t take reservations and don’t care what you wear.
Blue Heaven – For breakfast or lunch, you must try. This notorious quirky outdoor restaurant serves some of the best breakfast food in a unique setting in Florida. They have a tropical décor with plenty of birds and chickens roaming the grounds and exceptional food.
Jack Flats -If you want good basic bar food that covers all the bases, in the middle of Duval Street. They have a large menu and the quality is above average. Nothing fancy, but Jack Flats has a sports bar feel with better food. Good sports bar in Key West.
Hogfish Bar & Grill -technically not in Key West, on Stock Island comes mostly for their exceptional food. It is possible our first taste of hogfish came from this bar twenty-plus years ago. Now their Hogfish Sandwich has such fame, that people stop at the Hogfish as they drive into Key West from points unknown.Don’t miss Sarabeth’s on Simonton for a great breakfast or lunch.
Sarabeth’s – This quaint little place is located in a colorful remodeled home on Simonton Street. Sarabeths started making marmalades from an old family recipe and eventually turned that into a healthy restaurant business. Great breakfast and lunch.
Pepe’s – This is a popular local’s hangout. I think they refuse to paint and fix up the exterior to keep the tourists out! Breakfast, lunch or dinner – never had a bad experience at Pepe’s.
BO’s Fish Wagon – Don’t be fooled by the “pile of junk” front entrance. They make one of the best grouper sandwiches on the island!
DJ’s Clam Shack – This Duval Street favorite is home to two of our favotite menu items in Key West. The lobster roll is one of the best and the whole belly clams from the northeast are fried to perfection.
BOs Fish Wagon Key West looks like a pile of junk – don’t be fooled. Locals love their fresh fish.
Many of the classic places mentioned in the Bar section also have decent food. Places like Hogs Breath Saloon, Sloppy Joe’s, Margaritaville and others are acceptable, but the ones above we think are extraordinary!
Attractions and Things To Do in Key West Road Trip
The Hemingway House is on the top of most people’s list of things to do in Key West.
In Key West there are attractions and then there are oddities that are just as entertaining and interesting as the ones plastered all over the travel brochures. We will start with the ones every tourist usually sees and then move on to some of the less publicized attractions.
Hemingway House – Almost every new visitor goes to . Located on Whitehead Street, the Hemingway House was purchased by Ernest Hemingway in 1931. He resided there with wife number two, Pauline, for several years. Many of Hemingway’s short stories and novels were written in the house. The home has many original artifacts. In addition, about 40 or 50 six-toed cats reside on the property. All are descendants of Hemingway’s cats. Worth a one-time visit as a Key West must-see attraction.
Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. On the south end of Duval street you will see a large yellow building that looks more like a bed and breakfast than a conservatory. Once inside, the rear of the building is covered with a dome that houses thousands of butterflies, birds and tropical plants. The Conservatory has set up a natural setting for the birds and butterflies. Bring your camera! You will have the opportunity to get close-up pictures of the flying inhabitants. This is one of our top three tourist attractions and things to do in Key West.The Butterfly Conservatory has numerous photo opportunities with the beautiful surroundings.
The Key West Aquarium. Great place to learn about sealife in and around Key West.Keep this one for a rainy day or when the heat gets unbearable.
Museum of Art and History. This museum is run by the Key West Art and Historical Society. They also run the Lighthouse and a couple of other attractions listed here. Many are worth a little time if they interest you. Actually, we prefer the Museum during an afternoon rain shower. The history of Key West and the people who settled the area reads like a novel.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is worth the visit if you want to learn about his discovery of the Spanish ship Atocha wrecked in 1622. Fisher recovered an estimated 450 million dollars worth of gold and silver. The museum is on Greene Street visible from the Art and History Museum.
Fort Zachary Taylor is on the southwest side of the island near the Truman Annex, which is a government compound. There is a small beach at the old fort that is good for snorkeling.Of all the many things to do in Key West, taking a seaplane over to Fort Jefferson is one of our favorites.
Little Whitehouse because President Truman spent so much time in Key West. If you are pressed for time, skip this one.
Fort Jefferson and the Dry Tortugas! The Tortugas are a group of islands 70 miles west of Key West. On one of these islands is Fort Jefferson, the largest brick building in the western hemisphere, built in the 1850s. This is one of the top attractions in Key West. It takes from a half day to a full day by seaplane or boat but worth every minute of the trip.
These Key West attractions make up the list of the well-known sightseeing places in Key West. Many fall into the category of “must see” on a first visit.
Willie T’s on Duval has day long entertainment in Key West.
Entertainment in Key West
It seems the entertainment options are almost all day long – that includes people watching, the best entertainment in Key West! Places like Sloppy Joe’s, Irish Kevin’s, and Rick’s seem to start mid-morning and go to the wee hours of the next morning.
Here are a few other entertainment options:
The Smokin’ Tuna just off Duval seems to bring in a variety of bands starting each afternoon.
The Bull on Duval has acts that start in the afternoon and last all night.
The Hogs Breath Saloon on Duval brings in some really good bands in the evening.
Key West also has Coffee Butler Amphitheater that brings in name talent from around the country. Check their schedule when in town.
Where to Stay in Key West
There are well over 150 hotels in Key West and another 50 or more bed and breakfast lodgings. Choices range from big chain hotels to local independent owners. Prices are as varied as amenities.
One bed and breakfast operation we would suggest is The Conch House Heritage Inn. The Conch House is in Old Town and is roomy and clean according to friends who have stayed there. Of course, breakfast is offered in the mornings there as well.
Hotels in Key West We Recommend
There is an abundance of hotels on every part of the island. Every chain has a location somewhere in Key West. You can spend time looking on the travel sites or below are the ones we have stayed in that we recommend. (There are others we have stayed in we won’t be mentioning.)
This was shot at the Pier House during the boat races.
times. Right at the foot of Duval Street. The Chart Room, one of our favorite Bars, is located inside. The Pier House is on the high end from a cost standpoint. The location, clean rooms and waterside bar make it worthwhile. They also have a small private beach and nice pool.
Casa Marina – All the way to the other end of Duval Street (south) is the Casa Marina, part of the Waldorf Astoria group of hotels. This gracefully aging beauty was open in 1920 as part of the Henry Flagler group of exclusive hotels he was building along the coast. This old hotel is immaculate, exclusive and right on the Atlantic Ocean with their own private beach. We would highly recommend this facility, but the cost may not be worth it if you plan to spend your days off the property.
Casa Marina Hotel private beach.
The Galleon Resort and Marina is a perfect location if you are planning on taking advantage of the many water sports in Key West. The hotel is on the Gulf side of the Island and has a 90 slip boat marina. They also are a time-share resort, so availability may be limited at certain times of the year. They are priced about the same as the Pier House year around.
they were ranked as one of the top resorts in the Florida Keys! We are not sure about this lofty ranking, but The Opal has a great location right on the entrance to the Key West Harbor. They also are next to Mallory Square. The shops bordering the marina front are fun with an emphasis on watersports. This is a big hotel and will be priced as the Pier House and others.
Opal Resort is one of the largest. Just west of Mallory Square and nightly entertainment.
stayed here in several years, but the hotel has been remodeled recently and should be better than our last visit. The La Concha is one of the tallest buildings in Key West and has a great view of the landscape. The hotel has a large wine bar on Duval, and very comfortable lobby. Pricing is just slightly less than waterfront properties.
Warning about booking hotels in Key West. You will find many hotels listed by Sheraton, Marriott, Hampton, Doubletree and other chains. Make sure they match your plans. All of the ones above are far out on Roosevelt Street towards the airport. These locations are about two miles from Duval Street and most attractions. We prefer locations within blocks of Duval, not miles away.
What is the Best Beach in Key West?
The best beach in Key West is a matter of location and opinion. There are several. The main ones are;
Smathers Beach on the south end of the island. Probably the largest and most populated, but it is large enough not to be as crowded as others.
Higgs Beach is also on the south end of the island just west of Smathers Beach.
Fort Zachary Taylor beach is on the far westerly island near Fort Zackary State Park.
The ones above are the three largest beaches. Your choice may be the one nearest your hotel. There are a few more including some small local’s favorites. The best beaches in Key West can be found here.
We think this is the best beach in Key West but there are several more.
Final Thoughts on Driving to the Florida Keys
If you have roamed the islands driving to the Florida Keys, you have experienced one of the most heralded drives in the state of Florida. The beauty, the blue sparkling clear water, the quirky shops and some amazing food.
Everyone sees the Florida Keys a little differently. Some are attracted to the unrivaled rich history. Others just scratch the surface for a quick get-away. Some people consider a visit to the Keys is like taking nature’s Valium!
Many people come for the water sports that abound in the clear blue waters. Some people love the almost 24-hour-a-day entertainment.
Annual events like the Hemingway lookalike contest, Fantasy Fest, Song Writer’s Festival, Islamorada’s multiple fishing tournaments, food and wine festivals, Super Boat Championships in Marathon and Key West, and many more annual festivals bring thousands of visitors. The natural setting of islands between two oceans offers experiences not found anywhere else in the world.
One thing you know is that you will be back. Someday, sitting in your office at home, or at your job at the bank, or when making another appointment, landscaping another house, or working at some other diverse occupation, your mind will wander back to the Florida Keys and the planning for another road trip begins once again……..
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About the Author: I’m Larry Edger, a Florida resident who’s spent decades exploring the state—beaches, islands, springs, small towns, and road trips. I publish practical Florida travel guides with real-world planning tips and seasonal updates. Read more about Florida Travel Blog →
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