Day Trips from Key West

Location:

Big Pine Key, FL (just 45 minutes from Key West)

Highlights:

If you're near Key West and craving crystal-clear water and soft white sand, we’ve got the perfect nature escape— Bahia Honda State Park . This 524-acre barrier island sanctuary is where you’ll find stunning snorkeling, rare butterflies, and some of the best beaches in the Keys.

We Recommend This For:

Beach lovers, snorkelers, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, postcard-perfect stretch of paradise.

What We Love:

The reef fish and rays just offshore, the rare tropical plants, and the feeling that you’ve truly discovered a hidden gem.

• Snorkel among vibrant marine life including reef fish, rays, and even nurse sharks—tours are often available.
• Swim along the island’s natural 2.5-mile white sand beach—one of the best in the entire state.
• Explore rare native plants like yellow satinwood and endangered small-flowered lily thorn, plus keep an eye out for the elusive Miami blue butterfly.
• Camp or relax—there are full-facility campgrounds and picnic areas with ocean views.

Distance from Key West:

About 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Bahia Honda:

From Key West, drive northeast on US-1 N (Overseas Highway). Look for Mile Marker 37—Bahia Honda is clearly marked, with parking and visitor services on site.

Address: 36850 Overseas Highway (MM 37), Big Pine Key, FL 33043, Phone: 305-872-3210

Bahia Honda State Park is 45 minutes from Key West, Florida (35.1 miles via US-1 N):

Location:

Big Pine Key, FL

Highlights:

If you're up for a peaceful island experience just north of Key West, Big Pine Key is where nature, wildlife, and laid-back vibes come together beautifully. It’s the perfect spot to unplug, cast a line, spot miniature deer, or simply soak up the local charm.

We Recommend This For:

Outdoor adventurers, animal lovers, RV travelers, seafood enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys exploring off the beaten path.

What We Love:

Fishing year-round, seeing the adorable Key deer up close, and grabbing a bite at funky, beloved local spots like Good Food Conspiracy.

• Explore the National Key Deer Refuge, home to protected miniature Key deer—about the size of a golden retriever.
• Enjoy year-round fishing, snorkeling, diving, and boating in the warm waters surrounding the island.
• Eat your way through downtown, with fresh seafood joints and hidden gems like Good Food Conspiracy for organic eats and smoothies.
• Stay at the Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge with motel-style rooms, RV hookups, and campsites just steps from the water.

Distance from Key West:

Roughly 45 minutes by car heading north on US-1.

How to Get to Big Pine Key:

From Key West, drive northeast on US-1 (Overseas Highway). The island is located around Mile Marker 30, with signs pointing to Big Pine Key’s attractions, parks, and lodging options.

Location:

Homestead, FL (South Florida)

Highlights:

If you’re craving an unforgettable wildlife experience that feels like a whole new world, Everglades National Park is a must. Think airboats, alligators, and birdwatching under massive skies—this UNESCO World Heritage Site is unlike anywhere else in the U.S.

We Recommend This For:

Wildlife lovers, photographers, eco-tour adventurers, stargazers, and anyone fascinated by unique ecosystems.

What We Love:

Spotting manatees and panthers on a guided tour, climbing the Shark Valley observation tower, and being wowed by the dark sky zones in Ten Thousand Islands.

• Take a guided eco-tour to safely view rare wildlife like the West Indian manatee, leatherback turtles, and even the elusive Florida panther.
• Climb the two-story observation deck at Shark Valley Visitor Center for panoramic views (and maybe an alligator sighting or two).
• Wander trails that wind through sawgrass marshes, pine flatwoods, and mangroves—1.5 million acres of raw, wild Florida.
• Stargaze in designated dark sky areas like Ten Thousand Islands—an awe-inspiring experience on clear nights.

Distance from Key West:

Approximately 3 hours by car (about 130 miles).

How to Get to Everglades National Park:

From Key West, take US-1 N to Florida City, then merge onto State Road 9336 toward the Homestead park entrance. Multiple entrances exist, so double-check directions based on which visitor center you plan to explore first.

Address: 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034, Phone: 305-242-7700

Location:

70 miles west of Key West, FL (accessible by boat or seaplane)

Highlights:

If you're in Key West and looking for a truly unforgettable day trip, Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson will blow you away. From crystal-clear snorkeling to exploring an enormous Civil War-era fort in the middle of the ocean—it’s a bucket list kind of place.

We Recommend This For:

History buffs, adventurers, snorkelers, photographers, and anyone who wants to feel like they’ve discovered a secret tropical island.

What We Love:

Exploring the massive brick fortress, snorkeling pristine reefs, and the unforgettable flight in a seaplane or ferry ride over turquoise waters.

• Tour Fort Jefferson, the largest brick masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere—an impressive slice of American history surrounded by the sea.
• Snorkel vibrant coral reefs with tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life in clear, protected waters.
• Birdwatch or camp overnight on Garden Key—an ideal spot for starry skies and peaceful nature immersion.
• Arrive by ferry (Yankee Freedom III) or for a bird’s-eye view, take a scenic seaplane flight from Key West.

Distance from Key West:

70 miles west (2.5 hours by ferry, 40 minutes by seaplane).

How to Get to Fort Jefferson:

Depart from Key West via the Dry Tortugas Ferry or Key West Seaplane Adventures. Both provide round-trip service to Garden Key, home to Fort Jefferson and the main visitor area.

Address: Fort Jefferson and Dry Tortugas National Park, 40001 SR-9336, Homestead, FL 33034, Phone: 305-242-7700

Location:

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Highlights:

Want a fun, upscale getaway that mixes beaches, arts, and yacht vibes? Fort Lauderdale is your perfect pick—think sleek hotels, fine dining, museum-hopping, and waterfront adventures all in one stylish city.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, foodies, arts lovers, yacht watchers, and anyone looking for a mix of beach and urban energy.

What We Love:

The laid-back glamor of Las Olas Boulevard, fascinating museums, and easy access to beachside parks and cultural shows.

• Stroll along the famous Strip promenade, lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, restaurants, and upscale shops.
• Explore family-friendly favorites like the Museum of Discovery and Science or dive into the city's roots at the Fort Lauderdale Historical Center.
• Catch a show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts or discover galleries in the Arts & Entertainment District.
• Shop and dine along Las Olas Boulevard, a hotspot for boutique finds and global cuisine.
• Reconnect with nature at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park—perfect for canoeing, walking trails, and birdwatching along the Intracoastal.

Distance from Key West:

Roughly 4 hours by car or 1 hour by plane.

How to Get to Fort Lauderdale:

From Key West, drive northeast on US-1 to I-95 North, or hop a quick flight from Key West International Airport to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Ground transport options are plentiful once you land.

Address: Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Romantic Day Trips from Key West:

Location:

Islamorada, FL (in the Upper Florida Keys)

Highlights:

Looking for that perfect mix of laid-back island vibes and unforgettable adventures? Islamorada is where turquoise waters meet sportfishing legends, lush parks, and the coolest little museums in the Keys.

We Recommend This For:

Outdoor enthusiasts, divers, families, history lovers, and anyone craving a breezy island escape with a touch of adventure.

What We Love:

Scuba diving coral reefs, the dolphin encounters at Theater of the Sea, and wandering through both natural preserves and quirky local museums.

• Snorkel or dive through some of the Keys’ most spectacular reefs on guided underwater adventures.
• Visit the Theater of the Sea to swim with dolphins, sea lions, or rays in a lush, lagoon-style setting.
• Discover fascinating artifacts at the History of Diving Museum or explore local heritage at the Keys History and Discovery Center.
• Hike or kayak through the mangrove forests and trails of Indian Key Historic State Park and Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park.
• Relax on pristine beaches with some of the softest sand and clearest water in the Upper Keys.

Distance from Key West:

Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

How to Get to Islamorada:

From Key West, take US-1 N through the scenic Overseas Highway. Watch for signs as you pass through the islands—Islamorada stretches between Mile Markers 72 and 90.

Address: Islamorada, FL

Location:

Key Biscayne, FL (just across the Rickenbacker Causeway from downtown Miami)

Highlights:

If you’re headed near Miami and want something peaceful, scenic, and packed with adventure, Key Biscayne is your go-to island escape. From snorkeling an underwater archaeological trail to sipping brunch at The Rusty Pelican, this spot blends laid-back fun with serious wow factor.

We Recommend This For:

Adventure seekers, families, lighthouse lovers, snorkelers, and brunch connoisseurs looking for a relaxed but exciting getaway.

What We Love:

Snorkeling historic shipwrecks, biking with an ocean breeze, and ending the day with a tomatillo Bloody Mary overlooking the water.

• Snorkel or scuba dive the only federally-recognized underwater archaeological trail in the U.S.—set along a vivid coral barrier reef.
• Climb the Cape Florida Lighthouse for panoramic views and iconic South Florida photo ops.
• Bike the 1.5-mile scenic trail or relax at Hobie Beach, famous for windsurfing and skyline views.
• Play at Crandon Park—ideal for families with a golf course, tennis center, nature exhibits, and calm beaches.
• Dine at The Rusty Pelican, a local favorite for waterfront meals and unforgettable brunch specials.

Distance from Key West:

Roughly 3.5 to 4 hours by car (about 160 miles).

How to Get to Key Biscayne:

From Key West, take US-1 N to Miami, then cross the scenic Rickenbacker Causeway to reach the island. Parking and bike rentals are available at multiple points.

Address: Key Biscayne, FL

Family Day Trips from Key West:

Location:

Key Largo, FL (northernmost island in the Florida Keys)

Highlights:

If you've ever dreamed of diving into crystal-clear water with coral reefs below and history all around, Key Largo is calling your name. It’s not just a diver’s paradise—it’s a Hollywood icon with sunset cruises, lush parks, and world-class fishing.

We Recommend This For:

Divers, film buffs, anglers, eco-tourists, and anyone looking to explore nature both above and below the water.

What We Love:

The legendary coral reef diving, the vintage charm of the African Queen cruise, and tranquil trails in the hammocks of the Upper Keys.

• Dive or snorkel the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S., home to vibrant marine life and shipwreck sites.
• Cruise aboard the historic African Queen, the steamboat made famous by Humphrey Bogart’s classic film.
• Hike the shaded trails at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park—great for birdwatching and photography.
• Fish with experienced guides on backcountry charter trips, known for trophy catches and serene settings.
• Relax on scenic beaches or explore eco-tour options that show off the best of the Keys’ land and sea ecosystems.

Distance from Key West:

Roughly 2 hours by car (about 100 miles).

How to Get to Key Largo:

From Key West, drive northeast along US-1, also known as the Overseas Highway. You’ll pass through several scenic islands before reaching Key Largo around Mile Marker 102.

Address: Key Largo, FL

Location:

Marathon, FL (midway through the Florida Keys)

Highlights:

If you're dreaming of turtle beaches, dolphin encounters, and island-hopping vibes, Marathon is a can’t-miss stop in the Keys. It’s a family-friendly gem filled with wildlife, water sports, and beach days you’ll never forget.

We Recommend This For:

Families, animal lovers, beachgoers, kayakers, sailors, and anyone who wants that perfect mix of nature and fun.

What We Love:

Snorkeling near quiet beaches, hanging with dolphins and stingrays, and exploring nature preserves with tropical flair.

• Relax at Sombrero and Coco Plum Beaches—beautiful, laid-back spots that are also prime loggerhead turtle nesting grounds.
• Explore the nature trails and museums at Crane Point, and visit the on-site bird rescue center.
• Interact with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center or feed stingrays at Aquarium Encounters.
• Paddle or snorkel at Curry Hammock State Park, a peaceful haven with sandbars and mangrove tunnels.
• Sail or dock at Marathon City Marina—ideal for boaters looking to anchor in the heart of the Keys.
• Visit in November for the quirky and beloved annual Stone Crab Claw Eating Contest!

Distance from Key West:

About 1 hour by car (roughly 50 miles).

How to Get to Marathon:

Drive northeast on US-1 from Key West. Marathon spans Mile Markers 47 to 60, with plenty of signs for parks, beaches, and attractions along the way.

Address: Marathon, FL