MIAMI TO KEY LARGO: HOW TO GET THERE AND WHAT TO DO
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth going from Miami to Key Largo and what you can do there, this blog post is for you!
We’ve visited Key Largo almost every time we’ve been in Miami because it’s one of the easiest trips to take, whether you’re planning a day trip or staying for a few days. In this guide, you’ll find out exactly how to get to Key Largo and what you can do there!
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WHERE IS KEY LARGO?
Key Largo is one of the Florida Keys, and it’s actually the first island you reach when traveling from Miami. It’s located about 60 miles from Miami and roughly 100 miles from Key West!
IS IT WORTH GOING FROM MIAMI TO KEY LARGO?
Going from Miami to Key Largo is definitely worth it. It’s just about an hour’s drive, and you can escape crowded Miami and instead spend time in calm and relaxed Key Largo. You’ll get to enjoy beautiful clear water, have easy access to coral reefs, and do plenty of outdoor activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and boating. Key Largo is perfect for both a day trip and a longer holiday from Miami! We’ve always visited as a day trip or as a stop on our way to Key West, but there are definitely enough things to do for you to stay 2–3 days.
CAN YOU FLY FROM MIAMI TO KEY LARGO?
You can’t fly directly from Miami to Key Largo because Key Largo doesn’t have a commercial airport. Also, Miami is so close that even if it did, there wouldn’t be a flight available. Instead, most visitors simply drive south from Miami for about an hour. You could technically take a private plane or helicopter, but that’s unnecessary and expensive, so driving remains the best and most practical option for visiting Key Largo.
HOW LONG IS THE RIDE FROM MIAMI TO KEY LARGO?
I’ve already mentioned that it’s a quick and easy one-hour ride. To be exact, you’ll need around 60–75 minutes to get from Miami to Key Largo if there are no traffic jams along the way (which are possible, especially once you get on the Overseas Highway). The distance is roughly 60 miles, and you can either drive straight to Key Largo or plan additional stops along the way. In that case, the trip will take longer!
HOW TO GET FROM MIAMI TO KEY LARGO WITHOUT A CAR?
While it’s not the most flexible option, you can reach Key Largo from Miami without a car by using several easy transportation methods. If you’re flying into Miami, there are daily shuttle services from Miami Airport, and if you’re already in the city, these shuttles also stop in downtown Miami. This is a comfortable, direct ride to Key Largo in about an hour and a half, and prices usually start around $15 one way with Greyhound.
If you need something really cheap, you can take public buses. You can go from Miami to Florida City and then transfer to another bus to Key Largo. This costs only a couple of dollars, but it takes longer since you need to take two different buses. You can also book a private transfer or tour from Miami to Key Largo, but this will be your most expensive option.
WHAT TO DO IN KEY LARGO?
Key Largo has plenty of things to do, whether you’re visiting for adventure or relaxation. Most visitors come to snorkel or dive at its world-famous coral reefs, kayak through the mangroves at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, or join a boat tour to spot dolphins and enjoy the clear blue water. The island also has peaceful wildlife spots like the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center and Dolphin Life. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Key Largo and nearby that we’ve done over the times we’ve visited, so check it out!
IS THERE ANYTHING TO DO ON YOUR WAY FROM MIAMI TO KEY LARGO?
Driving from Miami to Key Largo definitely isn’t as fun as driving all the way to Key West. However, there are still some great things you can do along the way. Firstly, the route takes you through Homestead, where you can visit Robert Is Here, a famous fruit stand known for its fresh produce and tropical milkshakes.
One thing I’d really recommend is stopping at Everglades National Park. Visit the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, where you can book an airboat tour and go see alligators and other wildlife. The Everglades is a truly incredible place, and I’d highly recommend it.
You can also stop along the way at any viewpoints or restaurants that seem interesting to you!
CONCLUSION: MIAMI TO KEY LARGO
Traveling from Miami to Key Largo is a really easy trip that gives you the opportunity to escape the crowds of the big city for a smaller, more relaxed island. Since it’s only about an hour’s drive, it’s a perfect destination for a day trip or a relaxed weekend getaway without long travel time. Along the way, you can make a few stops and then enjoy a wonderful time in Key Largo, whether you’re snorkeling, wildlife watching, or just relaxing!
