Highway Over Water: Driving the Overseas Highway to Key West
A road that veers between surf and sky—plan, stop, and savor each bridge and beach on the way to Key West.
The engine hums, salt spray tangles in the air and the horizon turns into a ribbon of blue—this is the Overseas Highway. From the passenger seat the ocean is nearly constant: the Gulf to the west and the Atlantic to the east, each with its own personality. The road laces across low, green keys and arched bridges, sending a steady invitation to slow down. Even when your schedule is tight, the highway resists haste. It wants you to notice the small things: a brown pelican folding into the wind, the ghostly silhouette of a railroad trestle, a cluster of pastel conch houses clustered at the water’s edge.
Trail Wisdom
Tank Up Before Long Stretches
Fuel stations are spaced out—start with a full tank and refuel in Marathon or Big Pine Key to avoid long detours.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the coral reef—choose sunscreen labeled 'reef-safe' to reduce chemical runoff.
Plan Stops, Not Just Checkpoints
Schedule time for Bahia Honda State Park, the 7-Mile Bridge viewpoints and the Blue Hole—these stops reward a slow pace.
Respect Wildlife and Private Property
Observe Key deer and shorebirds from a distance and don’t approach animals or walk into marked conservation areas.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the old Bahia Honda railroad bridge remnants for unique water views
- •Visit the Blue Hole on Big Pine Key at dusk for a quiet wildlife moment
Wildlife
Key deer, brown pelican
Conservation Note
The Florida Keys contain fragile reefs and mangroves—visitors should use reef-safe products, avoid anchoring on coral and follow posted wildlife protections.
Much of the Overseas Highway was built on the remnants of the Florida East Coast Railway after the catastrophic 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, transforming rail lines into roadbeds.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildlife viewing, pleasant driving temps, fewer crowds than winter
Challenges: occasional rain, spring break crowds late season
Spring offers comfortable temperatures and active wildlife—great for beach walks and photography, but expect intermittent showers.
summer
Best for: snorkeling, warm water activities, lush tropical colors
Challenges: heat and humidity, hurricane season risk
Summer brings warm seas ideal for snorkeling and boating; stay weather-aware and book flexible plans during hurricane season.
fall
Best for: lower rates, calmer shoulder-season travel, opportunistic snorkeling
Challenges: increased storm potential through November, some attraction closures
Fall is quieter and can be pleasant, but remains inside the broader hurricane window—monitor forecasts and travel insurance is wise.
winter
Best for: comfortable temps, reliable weather, peak wildlife viewing
Challenges: higher visitor numbers, advance bookings required
Winter offers ideal, temperate driving and outdoor conditions—expect larger crowds and higher prices in Key West.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Refillable Water BottleEssential
Staying hydrated is crucial in sun and salt air; water stops can be spaced out between keys.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the fragile coral ecosystems when you’re beaching or snorkeling.
Camera with Polarizing Filter
Reduces glare off the water and enhances sky and sea contrast for bridge and bird shots.
Light Wind/Rain Jacket
Wind can be brisk on exposed bridges and sudden showers are common—pack a thin layer.
Common Questions
How long does it take to drive the Overseas Highway from Key Largo to Key West?
Direct driving takes about 2.5–3 hours, but a full day (6–8 hours) is recommended to stop and explore highlights like Bahia Honda and the 7-Mile Bridge.
Are there places to stop for swimming and snorkeling along the route?
Yes—Bahia Honda State Park has excellent beaches for swimming; snorkeling is best near shallow patch reefs accessed by boat or on guided excursions.
Is the Overseas Highway safe to drive in bad weather?
Bridges can be exposed and windy; avoid travel during tropical storms and heavy seas—check local advisories before driving.
Can I see Key deer from the roadside?
Key deer are commonly seen on Big Pine Key and nearby refuges, often at dawn and dusk—observe quietly and do not feed them.
Are there tolls on the Overseas Highway?
Most of US-1 across the Keys has no tolls, but some approaches or alternate routes (Card Sound Road) may have fees—confirm your route ahead of time.
What should I know about parking and access at popular stops?
State parks like Bahia Honda have parking fees and limited capacity—arrive earlier in peak season or reserve where possible.
What to Pack
Sun hat and reef-safe sunscreen for UV protection; refillable water bottle to avoid dehydration; lightweight wind jacket for bridge spray and evenings; camera with polarizer to capture water and wildlife.
Did You Know
Much of the Overseas Highway was rebuilt using the remaining bridge pilings and roadbed of the Florida East Coast Railway after the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935—transforming a devastated rail line into today’s scenic drive.
Quick Travel Tips
Fill your gas in Marathon or Key Largo; always carry cash/card for state park fees; check hurricane season forecasts (Jun–Nov); reserve Bahia Honda parking or arrive early.
Local Flavor
Expect Cuban-inspired coffee and conch fritters, island music drifting from bars, and a laid-back culture that prizes sunsets and seafood—Key West culinary life mixes Cuban, Bahamian and Floridian flavors.
Logistics Snapshot
Route: Key Largo → Key West (~113 miles). Drive time (no stops): ~2.5–3 hours. Best time: winter–spring. Essentials: full tank, reef-safe sunscreen, park fees for Bahia Honda.
Sustainability Note
Use reef-safe products, avoid disturbing wildlife (especially Key deer), and support local eco-tours that practice responsible anchoring and reef protection.