A Florida Keys road trip is the kind of drive you want to savor, not rush. To really soak in the island vibes and explore everything from Key Largo down to Key West, you’ll want to give yourself anywhere from 3 to 7 days. This guide is built from the ground up for electric vehicle drivers, making sure your entire scenic journey is powered by sunshine and smart planning, not range anxiety.
Your EV Adventure Through the Florida Keys Starts Here
Picture this: you're gliding down the Overseas Highway with turquoise water sparkling on both sides, the only sound being the quiet hum of your EV. This isn't just a list of places to see; it's a strategic playbook for an unforgettable road trip. We’ve designed this guide to weave charging stops seamlessly into your exploration, so you can keep your eyes on the stunning views, not your battery meter.
The best trips start before you even hit the road. Renting with Amped Auto Rentals means you skip the usual rental counter headaches. Our white-glove, concierge-style service delivers a premium, fully-charged EV right to your Miami hotel or doorstep. It’s a completely seamless experience that feels like you're starting the adventure in your own car.
Planning For Paradise
There's a reason the Florida Keys road trip is one of America's most iconic drives. The route’s blend of breathtaking natural beauty and quirky island culture keeps people coming back year after year. While other travel markets might see ups and downs, the Keys have a consistent, magnetic pull on visitors.
The tourism numbers don't lie. Monroe County's Tourist Development Council recently reported that visitor occupancy and hotel revenue have shot past pre-pandemic levels. In fact, revenue per available hotel room jumped 21.9% compared to 2019, which tells you just how many people are itching to explore this island chain. This just goes to show why planning ahead is absolutely critical.
This guide gives you everything you need for that plan, including:
- Flexible Itineraries: We've mapped out detailed day-by-day plans for 3, 5, and 7-day trips that you can easily tweak to fit your own pace.
- EV-Specific Guidance: You get a clear charging strategy with reliable stations and hotels that offer charging, so you're never caught off guard.
- Curated Recommendations: These are our insider tips on the best places to stay, eat, and the can't-miss activities you'll find along the way.
A great Florida Keys road trip is all about pacing. If you just blast from Miami to Key West in one day, you miss the whole point. The real magic is in the laid-back culture, the hidden gems, and the spontaneous stops that make the drive so memorable.
By setting out with the right vehicle and a smart plan, you're setting yourself up for an incredible experience. If this is your first long-distance EV journey, it’s worth taking a moment to understand what makes an electric vehicle road trip so different and exciting.
Crafting Your Perfect Itinerary: 3, 5, or 7 Days
The real magic of a Florida Keys road trip is how easily you can shape it to fit your own timeline. Whether you've got a quick weekend getaway or a full week to truly unplug, there's a perfect pace waiting for you. The trick is matching your time to the kind of experience you're after—a whirlwind tour of the highlights, a balanced exploration, or a deep, leisurely dive into the "Conch Republic" lifestyle.
I’ve laid out three distinct, day-by-day plans specifically with EV drivers in mind. They’re built to get you the most island time with the least amount of time spent thinking about charging. Just find the rhythm that feels right for you and hit the road.
The 3-Day Keys Getaway: An Action-Packed Weekend
Perfect for a long weekend, this itinerary hits the sweet spot of the vibrant Upper and Middle Keys. Think of it as a concentrated dose of the classic Keys experience, but without the long haul down to Key West. It’s the ideal quick escape from Miami.
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Day 1: Arrival in Key Largo and Underwater Wonders
Your adventure kicks off the second your wheels hit the Overseas Highway. Your first big stop is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. As the country's very first undersea park, it's non-negotiable. Book a glass-bottom boat tour or, if you really want to get in there, a snorkeling trip to see the famous Christ of the Abyss statue. Afterwards, a late lunch at the Key Largo Conch House is a must before checking into your hotel. Wrap up the day with a sunset dinner overlooking the bay. -
Day 2: Islamorada's Sporting Life
Start your day with the short, scenic drive to Islamorada, the "Sportfishing Capital of the World." Your first stop has to be Robbie's Marina—it's a true Keys institution. The main event? Feeding the massive, prehistoric-looking tarpon that swarm the docks. It’s a wild, thrilling experience you won’t forget. Afterwards, cool off at the Florida Keys Brewing Co. for a flight of local beers in their funky, colorful beer garden. -
Day 3: A Taste of Marathon and the Road Home
On your last day, head just a bit further south to Marathon to visit the Turtle Hospital. The 90-minute guided tour is fantastic—it’s incredibly educational but also genuinely heartwarming to see the rescue and rehab work up close. Grab one last fresh seafood lunch before starting the beautiful drive back to Miami, your head full of memories from a whirlwind Keys adventure.
The 5-Day Keys Explorer: The Classic Road Trip
This is the quintessential Florida Keys road trip. It’s a beautifully balanced itinerary that takes you all the way to the Southernmost Point, giving you a perfect blend of iconic sights, chill beach time, and the one-of-a-kind culture of Key West.
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Day 1 & 2: Follow the 3-Day Itinerary
Your first two days are a carbon copy of the 3-Day Getaway. You’ll soak up the best of Key Largo and Islamorada, exploring John Pennekamp and feeding the tarpon at Robbie's. The vibe is laid-back as you explore the Upper Keys before settling in for the second night around Marathon. -
Day 3: The Journey to Key West
Today is all about the drive itself. After grabbing breakfast in Marathon, you'll hit the first major landmark: the incredible Seven Mile Bridge. Just after you cross it, pull into Bahia Honda State Park, which is home to what many people call the most beautiful beaches in all the Keys. Go for a swim, walk the overlook on the old bridge, and find a spot for a picnic. Continuing south, make sure to drive slowly through Big Pine Key, the main habitat for the tiny, endangered Key Deer. Once you roll into Key West, check in and take a walk down Duval Street to soak in that electric energy. -
Day 4: Experiencing Historic Key West
Dedicate today to diving into the heart of Key West. Get an early start to beat the lines for a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy. From there, wander over to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the legendary author and meet the famous six-toed cats. As evening approaches, make your way to Mallory Square for the nightly Sunset Celebration—a chaotic, wonderful street festival with performers, food vendors, and an unbeatable view as the sun dips below the horizon. -
Day 5: A Final Taste of Paradise
Enjoy a slow final morning with breakfast at Blue Heaven, a spot famous for its key lime pie. Depending on your flight or drive schedule, you might have time to squeeze in a quick visit to the Key West Lighthouse or the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum before starting the long, beautiful journey back north.
Your EV is the perfect companion for this trip. The quiet, smooth ride lets you fully appreciate the serene beauty of the drive, from the gentle lapping of waves to the rustle of palm trees, without the noise of a traditional engine.
The 7-Day Keys Immersion: The Ultimate Escape
Have a full week? This is how you do it right. This immersive itinerary lets you explore deeper, uncover hidden gems, and truly settle into "island time." It has all the highlights of the 5-day trip but adds crucial time for relaxation and truly unique side quests.
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Day 1-4: Follow the 5-Day Itinerary
The first four days follow the classic 5-day plan, so you won't miss a thing. You’ll work your way down the island chain at a comfortable pace, hitting the best of Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West. -
Day 5: Dolphin Encounters and Mangrove Mazes
Today is all about getting out on the water. Book an eco-tour with a company like Honest Eco to see wild dolphins from a quiet, electric-powered boat. In the afternoon, switch it up with a guided kayak tour through the mangrove tunnels. It's a serene, almost otherworldly experience that really shows you the importance of the Keys' ecosystem. -
Day 6: A Day Trip to the Dry Tortugas
This is a true bucket-list excursion. You have to book a spot on the ferry or a seaplane to get to Dry Tortugas National Park, located a whopping 70 miles west of Key West. This remote paradise is home to the magnificent Fort Jefferson, crystal-clear water that’s perfect for snorkeling, and tons of bird life. It's a full-day commitment, but it is an absolutely unforgettable experience. -
Day 7: Last Call in Key West and Departure
Savor one final morning in Key West. Maybe you'll explore the historic seaport, visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, or do some last-minute souvenir hunting. Grab one last slice of key lime pie before you head to the airport or start your drive home, feeling completely recharged from a week in paradise.
No matter which itinerary you choose, the journey is yours to shape. With a premium EV from Amped Auto Rentals, delivered fully charged and ready for adventure, your Florida Keys road trip starts with effortless style and sustainable power.
Your EV Charging Strategy for the Keys
Forget range anxiety. Your biggest worry on a Florida Keys road trip should be choosing which slice of Key lime pie to try next. Planning your charging stops along the 113-mile Overseas Highway is way easier than you might think, and it blends right into your daily adventures. With a little planning, you’ll spend your time soaking up the sun, not staring at a battery gauge.
The real trick is to stop thinking of charging as a chore. See it as an opportunity. A quick top-off can happen while you’re enjoying a long lunch, exploring a state park, or heading out on a snorkeling tour. Suddenly, that potential downtime becomes another fun part of your vacation.
This visual breaks down how you can structure a 3, 5, or 7-day trip to get the most out of your time exploring the islands.
As you can see, the journey is a straight shot down the island chain, which makes planning your charging stops a simple, sequential process.
Finding Your Power Source in Paradise
The charging network in the Keys is growing fast, with reliable stations popping up in the main hubs like Key Largo, Marathon, and Key West. You'll mostly encounter two kinds of chargers: Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers (DCFC).
- Level 2 Chargers: These are the most common workhorses. They're perfect for longer stops, adding about 20-30 miles of range per hour. Think overnight charging at your hotel or during a multi-hour fishing charter. They almost always use the universal J-1772 connector.
- DC Fast Chargers (DCFC): Need a quick jolt of power? These are your go-to. A DCFC can get your EV up to 80% in about 20-40 minutes, depending on your car. You'll find them strategically placed for drivers making the full run to Key West. They typically have both CCS and NACS (Tesla) connectors.
To make this a bit more tangible, here are some of the key charging hubs you'll find on your way down the Overseas Highway.
Key EV Charging Hubs from Miami to Key West
This table highlights some of the most convenient spots to plug in, complete with ideas for what to do while you wait for your battery to fill up.
| Location (Mile Marker) | Station Name/Provider | Charger Types Available | Nearby Attraction/Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Largo (MM 102.5) | John Pennekamp State Park | Level 2 | Take a glass-bottom boat tour or go snorkeling. |
| Islamorada (MM 81.5) | Postcard Inn Beach Resort | Level 2 (for guests) | Relax by the pool or grab a drink at the tiki bar. |
| Marathon (MM 50) | Publix Super Market | DCFC & Level 2 | Restock on snacks and supplies for the rest of your trip. |
| Marathon (MM 48.5) | The Turtle Hospital | Level 2 | Take an educational tour and meet the sea turtle residents. |
| Key West (MM 4.5) | Key West Park N' Ride | Level 2 | Leave the car and hop on the Duval Loop bus to explore Old Town. |
| Key West (MM 0) | Key West City Hall Garage | DCFC & Level 2 | Walk to Mallory Square, the Hemingway Home, or Duval Street. |
Planning your stops around these locations turns charging from a necessity into a seamless part of your itinerary.
Smart Charging on the Go
The best way to integrate charging is to plug in while you’re already stopped to do something fun. For instance, the public chargers near John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo are perfect—you can top up while you're out on a boat tour. In Marathon, you can easily plug in while you spend an hour or two visiting the Turtle Hospital.
Local businesses are catching on, too. Coffee shops, marinas, and restaurants are installing chargers to welcome EV drivers. Use an app like PlugShare or A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) to find these spots in real-time. You'll often discover some hidden gems you might have missed otherwise. For a deeper look at the local power sources, our guide on electric car charging stations has all the details you need.
The Ultimate Convenience: Destination Charging
Honestly, the most effective way to kill any charging worries is to book a place to stay that has its own EV chargers. Waking up every morning to a fully charged car is the ultimate road trip luxury. It means you can just get up and go, without having to make a detour to a public station.
When you're looking for hotels or vacation rentals, filter for "destination charging" as an amenity. Many resorts in Key Largo, Islamorada, and Key West now offer this, often for free to guests. This one simple choice turns your charging plan from an active task into a passive, effortless part of your stay—which is exactly what the laid-back Keys vibe is all about.
Where to Stay and Dine on the Overseas Highway
Figuring out where to eat and sleep on your Florida Keys road trip is just as important as curating the perfect playlist. The right hotel can completely streamline your EV journey, while the right restaurant gives you a real taste of the islands, far from the tourist-heavy spots.
Here’s your inside guide to the best places along the Overseas Highway, with a special focus on making life easy for EV drivers and finding that authentic local flavor.
The secret's out on this drive, which means you absolutely have to book ahead, especially if you have your heart set on a prime location. Florida's tourism is non-stop; the state welcomed a staggering 41.19 million visitors in the first quarter of 2025 alone. That flood of people puts a major squeeze on availability in the Keys, so planning your stays and key dining spots is the only way to avoid missing out.
EV-Friendly Stays From Key Largo to Key West
Let's be honest, the best part of any EV road trip is waking up to a fully charged car. Destination charging takes all the hassle out of finding public stations, freeing up more of your time for exploring. Luckily, a growing number of resorts and hotels in the Keys are catching on and offering this fantastic perk.
Here are a few of our top picks, island by island:
- Key Largo: Playa Largo Resort & Spa is where luxury meets convenience. They have dedicated Level 2 EV chargers for guests, making it the perfect spot to recharge both yourself and your car after a day of snorkeling at John Pennekamp.
- Islamorada: An iconic Keys destination, Cheeca Lodge & Spa has you covered with on-site charging. Its classic, upscale vibe and amazing location make it a fantastic home base for exploring the "Sportfishing Capital of the World."
- Marathon: For a more modern feel, check out Isla Bella Beach Resort. The ocean views are stunning, and more importantly, they have EV charging stations ready to go. It’s an ideal stop in the Middle Keys before you conquer the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
- Key West: The Capitana Key West is a newer boutique hotel that really gets what modern travelers need. They provide reliable charging spots so your car is ready to hit the vibrant streets of Old Town whenever you are.
Pro Tip: When you're booking, always call the hotel directly to confirm the type of EV chargers they have and how many. Some places have limited spots, and the last thing you want is to arrive and find them all taken.
Savoring the Real Flavors of the Keys
You didn't drive all this way to eat at a generic chain restaurant. It's time to dive into the authentic food scene that makes the Keys so special. From rustic seafood shacks to legendary cafes, here's where you'll find the best local eats.
Must-Try Dining Spots
- Best Seafood in Islamorada: For fish so fresh it practically swims onto your plate, you have to go to Lazy Days Restaurant. It’s right on the water, serving up incredible sunset views and their famous "Lazy Days style" fish—a delicious creation with panko, key lime butter, and tomatoes.
- Best Cuban Coffee in Marathon: No drive through the Middle Keys is complete without a stop at La Niña Restaurant. This humble spot serves up a seriously potent and sweet cafecito that will power you through the rest of the day. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up.
- Most Iconic Key Lime Pie in Key West: The debate over the best key lime pie will probably never end, but Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe is a classic for good reason. Grab a slice of their tangy, perfectly balanced pie. Or, even better, get the frozen, chocolate-dipped version on a stick. Another local favorite with a killer meringue is Blue Heaven, where you can enjoy your slice in a quirky courtyard with chickens roaming at your feet.
A smooth EV trip starts before you even hit the Keys. If you're kicking off your adventure in Miami, knowing where you can charge up overnight makes the first leg of your journey a breeze. Take a look at our detailed guide on EV charging hotels in Miami to make sure your trip begins with a full battery.
Nailing the Essentials: Packing and Driving Tips for the Keys
A truly great Florida Keys road trip begins way before you even see the Overseas Highway. The secret sauce is smart prep. Knowing what to pack and understanding the unique quirks of Keys driving is what separates a blissfully smooth journey from a stressful one.
Get these details right, and you can focus on the jaw-dropping views instead of sweating the small stuff.
Packing for the Keys is really all about two things: sun protection and sustainability. The sun here is no joke—it's intense, bouncing off the water from every angle. And the fragile ecosystem you’re coming to see? It needs us to be thoughtful.
Your Keys Adventure Packing List
You don't need to bring your whole closet, but what you do bring needs to be strategic. Here are the absolute non-negotiables for your EV trip down the islands:
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: This is a big one. Normal sunscreens are loaded with chemicals like oxybenzone that are devastating to our coral reefs. Look for mineral-based options—the ones with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—to protect both your skin and the incredible world underwater.
- Polarized Sunglasses: Honestly, a game-changer. They slice right through the blinding glare on the water, letting you see the true turquoise hues and even spot marine life from bridges and piers.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated in the Florida heat is non-negotiable. A good reusable bottle isn't just eco-friendly; it'll save you money and cut down on plastic waste that can harm local wildlife.
- Light, Sun-Protective Clothing: Think breezy linen shirts, a wide-brimmed hat, and anything made from quick-dry fabric. These pieces keep you cool while giving you another layer of defense against those powerful UV rays.
Once your bags are squared away, it’s time to get familiar with the one-of-a-kind rhythm of driving the Overseas Highway. Trust me, it’s unlike any other road in America.
How to Drive the Overseas Highway Like a Pro
The drive from Miami to Key West is an experience in itself, governed by a unique system of markers and a mellow (but firm) set of unwritten rules.
First things first, forget about GPS addresses. Down here, everything revolves around Mile Markers (MM). These little green signs on the shoulder of the road count down from MM 113 in Key Largo to the iconic MM 0 sign in Key West. When a local tells you a great little tiki bar is at MM 81.5, that’s all the info you need.
Driving in the Keys is an exercise in patience. Much of the highway is just one lane in each direction. The best advice I can give is to embrace the slower pace. Enjoy the scenery, and whatever you do, don't try to pass unsafely. The journey is the destination here.
You also need to be on high alert for the protected Key deer in the Lower Keys, especially around Big Pine Key. These adorable, dog-sized deer are endangered and have a habit of wandering near the road. Pay close attention to the reduced speed limits—they are strictly enforced to protect these amazing animals.
If you're new to driving an EV, you'll find its instant torque and quiet operation are perfect for this scenic drive, but it never hurts to be prepared. For a deeper dive, check out our complete first-time EV driving guide to get fully comfortable behind the wheel.
Finally, keep an eye on the weather, particularly during hurricane season (June to November). A quick check of the forecast can save you a lot of trouble, so it's always smart to have a flexible plan. With these tips in your back pocket, your Florida Keys road trip is sure to be as smooth as the turquoise water lapping at the shore.
Why a Premium EV Rental Takes Your Trip to the Next Level
Sure, any car can get you from Miami to Key West. But the right car can completely transform a good Florida Keys road trip into something truly unforgettable. Opting for a premium electric vehicle isn't just about transportation—it turns the drive itself into one of the main attractions.
Imagine gliding over the Seven Mile Bridge with only the sound of the wind and the faint, futuristic hum of the electric motor. You can actually hear the seabirds calling and the turquoise water lapping below. It's a serene, almost immersive experience that a rumbling gas engine just can't deliver, letting you connect with the stunning natural beauty around you on a whole new level.
The Concierge Difference
Your vacation shouldn't start with long lines and a mountain of paperwork. The adventure should begin the moment you’re ready. That's why our concierge-style service is so crucial—we deliver an immaculate, fully charged luxury EV directly to your hotel, residence, or wherever is most convenient for you in Miami.
The entire process is contactless and designed to feel less like a rental and more like your personal car is waiting for you. Your journey starts now, not after an hour spent at a rental counter.
Performance Meets Preservation
The Overseas Highway is a driver's dream, and an EV's performance is perfectly matched for it. The instant torque gives you smooth, effortless acceleration for merging and passing, making the drive feel both responsive and incredibly relaxing.
But beyond the pure driving pleasure, choosing an EV is a conscious decision to help protect the very ecosystem you’ve come to admire. Driving with zero emissions helps preserve the delicate coral reefs and unique wildlife of the Keys. This thoughtful choice elevates your trip from a simple vacation into a more responsible and rewarding adventure.
Ready to see how tomorrow's technology can perfect your trip today? Explore our options for an electric car in Miami and experience the difference for yourself.
Your Florida Keys EV Road Trip Questions, Answered
Planning a drive down the Overseas Highway in an electric car for the first time? You've probably got a few questions. We get it. To make sure you feel totally prepared for your adventure, here are some straightforward answers to the questions we hear most often.
Is It Hard to Find EV Charging Stations in the Florida Keys?
Not if you do a little bit of planning. While you won't see a charger on every corner like in a big city, there's a solid network of Level 2 and a growing number of DC fast chargers ready for you in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West.
Even better, a lot of hotels now offer destination charging, which is the ultimate convenience—just plug in overnight and wake up to a full battery. Our guide's charging map is designed to take all the guesswork out of it, letting you plan your stops around power sources so "range anxiety" is one thing you can leave off your packing list.
What’s the Best Time of Year for a Florida Keys Road Trip?
For that perfect sweet spot of incredible weather and fewer people, aim for sometime between March and May. The sun is shining, the humidity is low, and you'll miss the peak winter crowds.
The fall, from September to November, is another great window, though it's always smart to keep an eye on the tropics during hurricane season. Summer gets pretty hot and humid, and you can almost set your watch by the daily afternoon rain showers.
How Long Does It Take to Drive From Miami to Key West Without Stops?
If you were to drive straight through, the 165-mile journey would take you about 3.5 to 4 hours, assuming you don't hit any major traffic.
But let’s be honest—blasting straight to the finish line would be a huge missed opportunity. The real magic of a Keys road trip is in the journey itself. We can't recommend enough taking a few days to really soak in the unique vibe, incredible views, and all the hidden spots each island has to share.
The perfect road trip starts with the perfect car. At Amped Auto Rentals, we deliver a fully-charged, top-of-the-line electric vehicle right to you, so your adventure can begin the second you’re ready. Feel the quiet power and seamless luxury that will make your entire trip unforgettable.
Book your white-glove EV rental today at https://ampedautorentals.com.
