Roadtrip: Miami to Key West

Key Largo

Home to winding creeks, a national park, and part of the National Marine Sanctuary, Key Largo offers some spectacular wildlife and botanical scenery for nature lovers. Fringed by the Everglades National Park to the west, this is a favourite destination for birdwatchers, kayakers, and walkers, who can spend the day in the Park observing and photographing rare and exotic species.

If sport-fishing is your thing, then stop off here to catch bonefish along the Atlantic shallows, or redfish in the bay, before continuing your journey South.   

Islamorada

The village of Islamorada comprises of six tiny islands and is the perfect stop-off for a seafood lunch. Known as the sport-fishing capital of the world, there is no wonder that the choice of fresh fish along the coast is phenomenal.

The Hungry Tarpon is a waterfront restaurant and bar with fantastic tropical views and serves signature dishes such as Tuna Tacos, Shrimp Burrito, and Lobster Frittata. It is also here that you can buy a bucket of bait and hand-feed the giant (eight-feet-long) Tarpon that leap out of the water to grab food from your fingertips.

If you fancy getting sand in-between your toes, then head to Anne’s Beach for a secret, secluded bay with crystal clear warm waters.

Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge is an iconic stretch of concrete, connecting Knight's Key in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. Stretching out to sea, as far as the eyes can view, this world-famous bridge was originally constructed in 1912, but the newest parts of the bridge were completed in 1982, and much of the old bridge is now inaccessible.

The bridge was originally constructed for railroad traffic and is currently still one of the longest bridges in America.

Turn up the radio as you enjoy the scenery of vibrant blue ocean for miles and miles on the new bridge, or get your bikes down from the cycle rack and head over to Pigeon Key along the old bridge span.

Marathon

Marathon is a 10-mile-long island located in the heart of the Keys’ island chain. Your arrival into Marathon will be flanked by road-sellers offering delicious, whole coconuts, which you should stop for if you fancy a refreshing and nutritious drink.

Marine wildlife enthusiasts should head to The Turtle Hospital, the world’s only licensed hospital licensed only to the treatment of sea turtles, and the Dolphin Research Center, where you can swim with dolphins and find out about the ongoing research and rescue operations for these fascinating mammals.

If you fancy a nights’ stop-over at Marathon, then check into the lovely Faro Blanco Resort – an elegant hotel and restaurant, located in a landmark lighthouse property. For dinner, head to the Lighthouse Grill, for outstanding sea views and freshly-caught seafood creations.