Turn your Florida vacation into a memory‑packed adventure with a scenic drive from Orlando to Key West. Pick up your vehicle at Orlando Airport car rental and roll south through classic beach towns, wildlife preserves, and the Florida Keys’ famous Overseas Highway. With Hola Car Rentals, you get straightforward pricing, full protection, and flexible changes—perfect for families on the move.
Itinerary at a glance
- Day 1 — Orlando → Miami (235–250 miles): Leave early to beat theme‑park traffic. Stretch your legs in West Palm Beach, then continue to Miami. If you’re staying by the sand, compare Miami Beach car hire options for easy parking near your hotel.
- Day 2 — Miami → Key West (165 miles): The Overseas Highway (US‑1) is the star. Stop in Key Largo for snorkelling, Islamorada for lunch, and Big Pine Key for wildlife viewing. Fuel up in Marathon; services are spaced out on the Lower Keys.
- Day 3 — Key West highlights: Sunrise at the Southernmost Point, Hemingway Home, and sunset at Mallory Square. Head back to Miami for a late flight, or overnight and return the next morning.
Pickups, drop‑offs & smart planning
- Choose your pickup wisely: Families often prefer MCO for flight schedules and quick access to the Turnpike. Lock in your vehicle with competitive Orlando car hire rates before you land.
- Drop off near your departure: If you’re flying home from South Florida, it’s easy to return at Miami International Airport. One‑way bookings can save time when schedules are tight.
- Pack like a pro: Bring sun protection, reusable water bottles, and light layers for sea breezes at night. Child seats can be reserved in advance.
- Budget for tolls: Some Florida routes charge cashless tolls; Hola Car Rentals shares clear guidance and offers perks like cashback on tolls.
Why book with Hola Car Rentals
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
- All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage for peace of mind.
- No additional fees—save up to 60% versus on‑site prices.
- Free travel insurance up to US$150,000 on selected itineraries.
FAQ
- Is a full‑size SUV necessary? Not required, but families love the cargo space for beach gear and strollers.
- Can I return the car in Miami? Yes—book a one‑way rental when you reserve to secure the best rate and availability.
- What’s the best start time? Aim for an early morning departure from Orlando to enjoy the Keys by daylight.
Ready to chase sunsets in the Keys? Reserve your vehicle with Hola Car Rentals and hit the road from Orlando with confidence.
When to go & how long it takes
- Best months: November–April offer mild temps and lower humidity. Summer is fine too—plan more water and earlier starts.
- Drive time: About 6.5–7 hours from Orlando to Key West without stops; most families split the journey across two days.
- Parking in Key West: Use municipal garages near Old Town and walk; street spaces can be time‑limited.
Navigation & booking tips
- Book early for holidays: Spring Break and winter see higher demand—secure your vehicle with Alamo car rental in Orlando well in advance.
- Stay flexible: Adjust pick‑up or drop‑off times in your Hola Car Rentals booking if your flight changes.
- Plan fuel stops: Fill up before leaving Miami and again in Marathon to avoid detours.
From manatee encounters to sunset celebrations, this route is pure Florida magic. Start your reservation with Hola Car Rentals today and drive the Keys at your pace.
Pro tip: schedule a mid‑afternoon break at Bahia Honda State Park—its shallow water is kid‑friendly, and golden hour photos on the old railroad bridge are spectacular.
If you prefer to avoid city traffic on the way back, time your Miami re‑entry after 7 p.m. or early in the morning. That gives you more time for a last Key lime pie slice before the drive.
