US‑1—better known as the Overseas Highway—links Miami to Key West with long causeways, turquoise water, and classic roadside stops. Many travelers consider it a must‑do day trip. With an early start, you can make it to Mile Marker 0 and back in a single day, but planning matters.
Pick up your car rental close to the airport if you want the widest morning pickup windows and the most vehicle choice. Prefer to begin on the beach? Hola Car Rentals also lists convenient car hire options for Miami so you can collect and roll south before the traffic builds.
Suggested one‑day route (north to south)
Key Largo: first coffee stop and a chance to grab snorkel gear. Islamorada: pull over for marina views and a quick seafood lunch. Seven Mile Bridge: leave time for photos—parking is limited near the pedestrian section. Bahia Honda: a short beach break to stretch your legs before the final drive.
Timing your day
Leaving before sunrise gives you smoother traffic through Homestead and the Upper Keys. Plan a latest‑departure time from Key West that allows for slower evening speeds on US‑1. If you’d rather linger over sunset, consider an overnight and return the next morning.
Parking and logistics
Key West parking is tight near Duval Street, especially midday. If you spot an open garage, take it. Consider a compact class for easier street spaces. If you’re staying in Miami Beach, a quick South Beach pickup can save backtracking; downtown guests may prefer a simple Miami pickup near the expressways.
Safety and speed
Watch for changing speed limits as US‑1 transitions from four lanes to two. Keep headlights on in rain and keep distance over bridges—wind gusts can push vehicles around. Fuel up before Islamorada on busy weekends to avoid queues farther south.
Packing list for a no‑stress ride
- Driver’s license (and passport if you’re an international visitor).
- Phone mount and charging cable for navigation.
- Sun protection, water, and snacks between towns.
- Comfortable footwear for quick walks to viewpoints.
Costs to expect
You’ll pay for fuel, meals, and tolls near Miami. South of Florida City, the Overseas Highway itself is toll‑free; your only tolls are typically near the city at the start and finish of the trip. If you’d rather minimize tolls entirely, use parallel local roads from the airport to Florida City before joining US‑1.
Why go with Hola Car Rentals
Hola Car Rentals keeps your Keys adventure smooth with No‑Surprise Pricing, All‑Inclusive+ coverage, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup. Prefer a crossover for luggage and beach gear? Our listings make it easy to compare classes and trunk space. If you expect to use express lanes near Miami, cashback on tolls helps keep the budget balanced.
Bottom line: yes, you can drive Miami to Key West in a day—if you start early, keep stops short, and plan parking. Build your route, choose the pickup spot that fits your base—beach or city—and book with Hola Car Rentals for a confident, unforgettable coastal drive.
Two smart alternates if you’re tight on time
- Turnaround at Marathon after the Seven Mile Bridge for a relaxed sunset in Miami.
- Overnight in Key West, stroll Duval Street after dinner, and cruise back at dawn.
New to Florida highways? Skim a quick set of Florida driving tips before you go—good reminders on headlights, school zones, and rainy‑season etiquette.
Finally, pick a vehicle that matches your day: a compact slips into tight Key West spaces, while a midsize SUV rides comfortably over long bridges with luggage and beach gear. Top off fuel near Florida City on the way down and again around Key Largo on the way back so you’re not hunting for a pump late at night.
