The Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West is one of the most scenic drives in America. 113 miles of bridges over open ocean, turquoise water on both sides, sunset over the Gulf. From Tampa, it's a 7-hour drive — but it's a bucket-list trip.
The Route from Tampa
I-75 South to Naples (3 hours), US-41 East to Miami (2 hours), then US-1 South down the Overseas Highway to Key West (3.5 hours). Total driving time is 7–8 hours. Plan at least 3 days to enjoy the Keys.
Must-Stop Locations
- Key Largo — snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
- Islamorada — sport fishing capital of the world.
- Marathon — the Turtle Hospital and Sombrero Beach.
- Bahia Honda State Park — the most beautiful beach in the Keys.
- Seven Mile Bridge — the most famous bridge on the Overseas Highway.
- Key West — Mallory Square sunset, Duval Street nightlife.
Best Rentals for the Keys
- Ferrari Roma convertible — top down over the bridges.
- Lamborghini Huracán Spyder — the ultimate Keys car.
- Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet — German engineering meets Florida sun.
- Rolls-Royce Dawn — the most luxurious Keys convertible.
- Bentley Continental GT Convertible — British grand touring.
Where to Stay
Top picks: the Marker Waterfront Resort (Key West harbor), the Casa Marina (historic Waldorf Astoria), the Sunset Key Cottages (private island), the Little Palm Island Resort (Islamorada, members-only), and the Hawks Cay Resort (Marathon, family-friendly).
Reserve Your Key West Rental
Tell us your dates. Multi-day packages from Tampa to Key West are common — plan at least 3 days.
