Dreaming of turquoise waters, spectacular sunsets and one of America's most iconic road trips? Whether you're planning a Florida Keys Self-Drive holiday or looking for the perfect Miami and Florida Keys itinerary, this tropical island chain offers an unforgettable escape unlike anywhere else in the USA.
Stretching over 120 miles from mainland Florida to the southernmost point of Key West, the Florida Keys are connected by the famous Overseas Highway, making them one of the world's greatest self-drive destinations. From colourful coral reefs and laid-back beach bars to historic landmarks and world-class seafood, there's something for everyone.
If you're wondering when to visit, how long to stay or whether you need a hire car, we've answered the most frequently asked questions below to help you plan your perfect Florida Keys holiday.
What is the best month to go to the Florida Keys?
The best time for Florida Keys holidays is generally between November and April.
During these months, you'll enjoy:
Warm sunshine with comfortable temperatures (24°C–29°C)
Low humidity
Minimal rainfall
Excellent conditions for snorkelling, diving and boating
January, February and March are particularly popular with UK travellers escaping the winter.
If you're looking for lower prices, May and early June can also be excellent months before the summer heat arrives.
When not to go to the Florida Keys?
The Florida Keys can be visited all year round, but there are a few things to consider.
June through September brings:
Hotter temperatures
Higher humidity
Afternoon tropical showers
Hurricane season (officially June to November, with peak activity from August to October)
Travelling during summer often means lower hotel prices and quieter attractions, but flexibility is recommended in case of changing weather.
What airport do you fly into to get to the Florida Keys?
Most visitors fly into Miami International Airport (MIA).
From Miami it's approximately:
* 1 hour to Key Largo
* 2 hours to Islamorada
* 3 hours to Marathon
* Around 4 hours to Key West
Many visitors choose a Florida Keys Self-Drive from Miami, allowing them to experience the spectacular Overseas Highway, often considered one of America's greatest scenic drives.
Key West also has its own airport with domestic flights, making it possible to arrive in Miami and depart from Key West without needing to drive back.
Do I need a rental car in Key West?
If you're only staying in Key West itself, you don't necessarily need a car.
Old Town Key West is very walkable, and you can easily explore by:
* Walking
* Bicycle
* Golf cart
* Trolley tours
* Ride-share services
However, if you're planning to discover multiple islands throughout the Florida Keys, a rental car is highly recommended.
Driving gives you complete freedom to stop at hidden beaches, waterfront restaurants, nature reserves and scenic viewpoints whenever you like.
What are the top things to do in the Florida Keys?
One of the reasons Florida Keys holidays are so popular is the incredible variety of experiences available.
Some must-see attractions include:
Drive the Overseas Highway
The journey itself is one of the highlights, crossing 42 bridges with breathtaking ocean views all around.
Visit Key West
Explore:
* Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
* Duval Street
* Southernmost Point Buoy
* Ernest Hemingway Home
* Historic Old Town
Snorkel or Dive Coral Reefs
The Florida Keys are home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental USA.
Popular snorkelling locations include:
* John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
* Sombrero Reef
* Dry Tortugas National Park
Watch the Sunset
Few places rival a Florida Keys sunset. Grab a drink at a waterfront bar and enjoy nature's nightly spectacle.
Go Fishing
The Keys are known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, offering exceptional offshore and backcountry fishing.
Enjoy Watersports
Choose from:
* Paddleboarding
* Kayaking
* Dolphin watching
* Jet skiing
* Sailing cruises
* Glass-bottom boat trips
Which is the nicest key in Florida?
Every island has its own personality, making this one of the toughest questions.
Key Largo
Perfect for:
* Diving
* Snorkelling
* Nature lovers
Islamorada
Known for:
* Luxury resorts
* Fishing
* Beautiful waterfront dining
Marathon
Ideal for:
* Families
* Relaxed beaches
* Turtle Hospital
* Dolphin Research Centre
Big Pine Key
Great for wildlife enthusiasts hoping to spot the endangered Key Deer.
Key West
The most famous destination combines:
* History
* Nightlife
* Great restaurants
* Boutique shopping
* Sunset celebrations
* Caribbean atmosphere
Many visitors agree that the beauty of the Keys lies in experiencing several islands rather than choosing just one.
What is so special about the Florida Keys?
The Florida Keys offer something completely different from the rest of Florida.
Here you'll discover:
* Crystal-clear turquoise waters
* Tropical island lifestyle
* Incredible marine life
* Fresh seafood
* Colourful sunsets
* Historic architecture
* World-famous road trip scenery
The relaxed pace of life is infectious, making it easy to understand why so many visitors return year after year.
Unlike busy theme park destinations, the Florida Keys encourage you to slow down, enjoy the scenery and embrace "island time."
How many days are needed to visit the Florida Keys?
Most travellers recommend spending at least 5 to 7 days.
This allows enough time to:
* Explore Miami
* Drive the Overseas Highway
* Stay on several islands
* Relax on the beaches
* Enjoy water activities
* Experience Key West
If you're simply driving from Miami to Key West and back, you'll miss many of the hidden gems that make the Keys so memorable.
Longer stays allow you to truly appreciate the unique atmosphere of each island.
Can I combine a Florida Keys holiday with Miami or Orlando?
Absolutely - and it's one of the most popular ways to experience South Florida.
Miami & Florida Keys
This is the classic combination.
Spend a few nights exploring:
* South Beach
* Wynwood Walls
* Little Havana
* Bayside Marketplace
Before driving south through the spectacular Florida Keys.
Orlando & Florida Keys
Many visitors combine Orlando's world-famous theme parks with a relaxing stay in the Keys.
It's the perfect balance between excitement and tropical relaxation.
Some travellers even create a two-week Florida adventure including Orlando, Miami and the Florida Keys.
Discover Our Florida Keys Holidays
At THG Holidays, we've created two carefully designed itineraries to help you experience the very best of South Florida.
Miami to Key West – Our Most Relaxed Florida Keys Self-Drive
Perfect if you want to spend less time behind the wheel and more time enjoying the islands.
This carefully planned itinerary allows you to:
* Fly into Miami
* Collect your hire car
* Drive the Overseas Highway at your own pace
* Return your car in Key West (one-way rental fees included)
* Fly home from Key West via a US hub
With 5, 7 and 9-night options available, it's one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience the Florida Keys.
Discover our Miami to Key West Self-Drive Holiday
Miami & The Florida Keys Fly Drive
If you'd prefer direct return flights from Miami and want even more time exploring the Keys, our Miami & Florida Keys Fly Drive is an excellent choice.
You'll enjoy:
* Time to discover vibrant Miami
* Scenic drives along the Overseas Highway
* Flexible stays in the Florida Keys
* Direct return flights from Miami
* The freedom to explore at your own pace
It's ideal for travellers wanting to experience both the excitement of Miami and the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys.
Explore our Miami & The Florida Keys Holiday
Why Book Your Florida Keys Holiday with THG Holidays?
Our expertly designed itineraries take the stress out of planning while giving you the flexibility to explore independently.
When you book with THG Holidays, you'll enjoy:
* Carefully selected accommodation
* Flexible holiday durations
* Great value packages
* Scenic self-drive itineraries
* Expert advice from USA travel specialists
Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to discover more of this tropical paradise, we'll help you create a Florida Keys holiday you'll never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Florida Keys worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Florida Keys offer beautiful scenery, unique island culture, fantastic seafood, excellent snorkelling and one of the world's most scenic road trips.
Can you drive the entire Florida Keys?
Yes. The Overseas Highway (US-1) connects the islands all the way from Key Largo to Key West.
Is Key West expensive?
Key West is generally one of Florida's more premium destinations, but there are accommodation and dining options to suit a range of budgets.
What is the most scenic part of the drive?
Many visitors consider the Seven Mile Bridge between Marathon and Big Pine Key to be the highlight of the journey.
Are the Florida Keys suitable for families?
Yes. Families love the beaches, wildlife, snorkelling, dolphin encounters and relaxed atmosphere, while couples enjoy the romantic sunsets and waterfront dining.
Ready to Start Your Florida Keys Adventure?
Whether you're looking for a relaxing island escape or an unforgettable Florida Keys Self-Drive, THG Holidays has the perfect itinerary waiting for you.
Browse our expertly designed Florida Keys Holidays today and start planning your tropical getaway.