The Florida Keys has a lot to offer. When planning a trip, it is so hard to limit yourself to one or two cities in the Keys! The proximity of Miami Beach makes it a huge draw as well. If you want to see a lot of the Keys in a short period of time and enjoy taking road trips, then you may want to try driving from Key West up to Miami Beach. For a trendy and iconic itinerary, check out Cosmopolitan's perfect Key West to Miami Beach road trip.
Cosmopolitan's itinerary boasts "beach time, pool time, and *lots* of snackin' and sippin'." What more could you want from a Florida Keys trip? Lauren Balsamo, the piece's author, split the 170 mile drive along Florida's Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) up for six days/five nights. This is the ideal way to do it. I've made the drive in a day before and it was not the most enjoyable way to do so. Yes, I got to take in the ocean views, but I did not get to stop much. With speed limits set to 45 MPH, my drive was mostly spent asking "are we there yet?" Taking a week or so to complete the trip allows you time to truly enjoy all that the area has to offer!
The Cosmopolitan itinerary suggests a few specific hotels, but there are plenty of great options. In Key West, look to stay at a property located on a beach or near Duval Street (or, ideally, both). Being on the beach will make it easy to relax and enjoy the sunshine, while being near Duval Street will give you premier access to bars, restaurants, and live music. In Islamorada, take advantage of the stunning local nature and stay at a property that gives you incredible access to beaches and/or other scenery. In Miami Beach, treat yourself to a stay at a luxury property. Trust us, you won't regret splurging a bit while you're in town!
In Key West, Cosmopolitan recommends bar hopping on Duval Street. Their favorite bars include Hog's Breath, Sloppy Joe's, Bull & Whistle, Irish Kevin's, and The Rum Bar. They also suggest renting a scooter and exploring town. They write:
"Walk out the front door of The Marker toward the harbor and you'll find at least 10 different kiosks renting scooters for the day. Explore the different neighborhoods and check out Smather's Beach and Simonton beach for swimming, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park for snorkeling, the Southernmost House for drinks and snacks, the Casa Marina Hotel for more drinks and snacks, and Mallory Square for sunset."
Restaurant suggestions in Key West include Louie’s Backyard and Cuban Coffee Queen.
In Islamorada, Cosmopolitan recommends plenty of beach time and a meal at Atlantic's Edge. Islamorada is going to be the best spot for relaxing in nature and savoring low-key seafood on a patio.
In Miami Beach, Cosmopolitan recommends planning a glamorous spa day! They write:
"Spa time: Forget the basic massage (you can get that anywhere, okay?) and book yourself the 24K gold wrap—it's one of the signature treatment's at the St. Regis Spa..."
For dining, they recommend sushi and cocktails at St. Regis Bar and truffle dumplings with sea bass tikka at Jaya.
What do you think about Cosmopolitan's suggestions? What would you add to their list? Tell us in the comments!