Yes, you can drive to Key West on the Overseas Highway
Key West is connected to the mainland by the Overseas Highway, a 113-mile road that runs from Florida City (south of Miami) across a series of bridges and causeways to Key West. You drive the entire way on US Route 1. There are no ferries, no tolls, and no permits required — you straightforward get in your car and drive south. The trip takes roughly four to five hours depending on traffic and how often you stop.
The Overseas Highway is a public road open to all vehicles. You do not need special documentation, a boat, or advance permission. Your regular driver's license and vehicle registration are sufficient. The road passes through the Florida Keys, a chain of islands connected by bridges, and the drive itself is considered one of the most scenic road trips in the United States.
Key Takeaways
- The Overseas Highway (US Route 1) connects Florida City to Key West and is open to regular passenger vehicles year-round with no special permits or tolls.
- The drive takes four to five hours under normal conditions, though traffic and weather can extend that time significantly.
- The road crosses 42 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, and passes through multiple small towns where speed limits drop sharply.
- Hurricane season runs June through November, and the road can close temporarily during major storms; check conditions before you leave.
- Gas stations, restaurants, and lodging are available along the route, but options thin out the farther south you go, so plan accordingly.
The Route: Florida City to Key West on US Route 1
The Overseas Highway begins at the southern edge of Florida City, where US Route 1 transitions from a standard mainland highway into the Keys. From there, the road heads south through a series of islands: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and finally Key West. Each section has its own character and speed limits.
The most famous section is the Seven Mile Bridge, which connects Marathon to Bahia Honda Key. This bridge is the longest of the 42 bridges on the route and offers views of open water on both sides. Speed limits on the Overseas Highway range from 55 mph on open stretches to 25 mph or lower in towns. Obeying these limits is important — the road is heavily patrolled, and fines are steep.
The entire route is a single highway with no alternate paths. If you miss an exit or need to turn around, you will have to backtrack. There are no shortcuts across the water, and no parallel routes. Plan your stops before you leave, because options for gas and food become limited once you pass Marathon.
Driving Conditions and What Changes by Season
The Overseas Highway is open year-round, but conditions vary. During summer and early fall (June through November), hurricane season brings the risk of sudden closures. The road can shut down with little warning if a major storm approaches. If you are planning a trip during these months, check the Florida Department of Transportation website or local news before you leave, and have a backup plan in case the road closes while you are traveling.
Winter (December through April) is the busiest season. Traffic is heavier, especially on weekends and holidays. Accommodations in Key West fill up quickly, and prices rise. Spring and fall offer a middle ground: fewer crowds than winter, lower risk of hurricanes than summer, and generally good driving conditions.
The road itself is well-maintained, but it is narrow in places and has no shoulder in some sections. Driving at night requires extra caution because the road is dark between towns, and wildlife (including Key deer on Big Pine Key) can cross unexpectedly. Rain can be sudden and heavy, reducing visibility quickly.
Gas, Food, and Services Along the Way
Gas stations exist at regular intervals from Florida City through Marathon. Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon all have multiple options. However, once you pass Marathon heading toward Key West, gas stations become scarce. Big Pine Key has one or two, and the final stretch to Key West has none. Fill your tank in Marathon if you are low on fuel.
Restaurants and lodging are available throughout the Keys, but they are concentrated in the larger towns: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West itself. Smaller communities like Big Pine Key have limited options. If you plan to stop overnight, book ahead during peak season (December through April). Many visitors drive straight through without stopping, which is feasible in a single day if you leave early and traffic cooperates.
Rest areas and pull-offs exist, but they are not plentiful. The road does not have traditional rest stops like you might find on an interstate. Plan bathroom breaks in towns rather than expecting facilities between them.
What to Bring and How to Prepare
Bring a full tank of gas or plan to refuel in Marathon. Bring water and snacks, especially if you are driving in summer heat. A phone charger is useful because cell service can be spotty in some areas, though it is generally available along the main highway. Sunscreen and sunglasses are practical — the sun reflects off the water and the road is exposed.
Check your vehicle before you leave. The Overseas Highway is not a place to break down; towing services are available but can be slow and expensive in remote areas. Make sure your tires, brakes, and cooling system are in good condition. If you are towing a trailer or driving an oversized vehicle, confirm that the bridges and road width can accommodate it — most can, but some older bridges have restrictions.
Have a GPS or read offline maps. Cell service is generally reliable, but it is not may provide everywhere. Knowing your route in advance prevents confusion at intersections where the road layout can be unclear.
Parking and Arrival in Key West
Key West has limited street parking, and it fills up quickly, especially in winter. Most visitors park in paid lots or garages. The main parking areas are near Duval Street (the main commercial area) and around the waterfront. Rates vary but typically run $2 to $5 per hour or $15 to $25 per day, depending on location and season.
If you are staying overnight, ask your hotel or rental property about parking. Many accommodations include parking or can direct you to nearby lots. Parking enforcement is active, and tickets are expensive. Do not park illegally or in marked reserved spaces.
Once you arrive, you can leave your car parked and walk or use local transportation. Key West is small enough to explore on foot, and many visitors do not drive once they arrive. Scooters and bicycles are also popular for getting around the island.
Road Closures and Weather Considerations
The Overseas Highway closes during hurricanes and severe tropical storms. Closures are announced by the Florida Department of Transportation and local authorities. If a storm is forecast to impact the Keys, the road typically closes 24 to 48 hours before the storm arrives. If you are in Key West when a closure is announced, you may be stuck there until the road reopens — sometimes for several days.
Check the National Hurricane Center and local weather forecasts before you travel during hurricane season. The road is also occasionally closed for maintenance or accidents, though these closures are usually brief. Real-time road conditions are available through the Florida 511 system (dial 511 or visit fl511.com).
Fog and rain can reduce visibility, especially in early morning or during afternoon thunderstorms. Slow down if visibility drops, and use your headlights. The road has no guardrails in some sections, so staying in your lane is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Miami to Key West?
The drive from Miami to Key West is roughly four to five hours under normal traffic conditions. This assumes you are starting from central Miami and driving straight through without extended stops. Heavy traffic, especially on weekends or during peak season, can add an hour or more. If you stop for meals or sightseeing, add extra time.
Are there tolls on the Overseas Highway?
No, there are no tolls on the Overseas Highway. US Route 1 is a free public road. You do not need a toll pass or payment account to drive it.
Can I drive a large RV or towing a trailer to Key West?
Most RVs and trailers can make the drive, but the road is narrow in places and some of the older bridges have weight or width restrictions. Check your vehicle's dimensions and weight before you leave. The Seven Mile Bridge and a few others have posted restrictions. If your vehicle exceeds those limits, you will need to find an alternate route or leave your trailer behind.
What should I do if the road closes while I am traveling?
If you are heading south and the road closes ahead of you, turn around and return north. Do not attempt to drive around a closure. If you are already in Key West when a closure is announced, stay put. The road will reopen once the weather clears, usually within a few days. Stock up on supplies and plan to wait.
Is it safe to drive the Overseas Highway at night?
The road is safe at night, but it is darker and more challenging than daytime driving. There are no streetlights between towns, and wildlife can cross unexpectedly. Drive at a reduced speed, use your headlights, and stay alert. Many drivers prefer to make the trip during daylight hours to avoid these complications.