Roadtrip Through the Florida Keys on the Overseas Highway

Spanning 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, U.S. Highway 1 — the Overseas Highway — is a gateway to all the water adventures, nature access, and unique culture the Florida Keys offers. Cruise over 42 bridges to explore five island districts, each with a distinct flavor.

Along the way, get off the main drag to see a more natural side of the Florida Keys, where beachfront campsites, mangrove tunnels, crystal-blue water, and vibrant coral reefs await.

For iconic road trips like the Overseas Highway, the all-new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is up for the challenge. From side quests down sandy dirt roads to carrying all the toys and gear you need, this adventure-ready vehicle makes it easy to get off the beaten path and explore your way. See just how far you can go with an epic itinerary through the Florida Keys.

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Paddle in the Mangroves

Humans inhabit approximately 30 islands throughout the Florida Keys. But this massive archipelago encompasses more than 1,700 uninhabited islands. Protected by the mangroves’ intricate root systems, the calm, shallow waters around these smaller islands serve as nurseries for juvenile marine life. Above water, marine birds, including osprey, herons, and migratory peregrine falcons nest in the dense foliage.

Launch a kayak from Curry Hammock State Park to paddle the 5-mile water trail through mangrove tunnels and past grassy flats and sandbars. Or join a guided paddle with a naturalist at Geiger Key, where you can explore hidden coves among the mangrove islands and learn about the marine life that thrives here.

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Adventure Underwater

Fun fact: the Florida Coral Reef, which stretches more than 350 miles from Dry Tortugas National Park to the north of West Palm Beach on the Atlantic Coast, is the only living barrier coral reef in the contiguous U.S. These vibrant marine ecosystems provide endless opportunities for underwater exploration.

In Key Largo — the self-proclaimed Dive Capital of the World — divers and snorkelers of all levels can enjoy John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Known as the first underwater park in the country, this protected area is home to famous dive sites, including Molasses Reef, where sea turtles, spotted rays, and reef sharks make regular appearances.

Farther down the Overseas Highway, check out Sombrero Reef and Looe Key. Both boat-accessible areas are hotspots for healthy coral formations and abundant marine life.

Camp by the Beach

Spend the night about as close to the beach as you can get at oceanfront campgrounds throughout the Florida Keys. At Bahia Honda State Park’s three campgrounds, car campers can pitch a tent mere steps from the shoreline for easy access to snorkeling and lounging on the beach. When the sun goes down, head to the Old Bahia Honda Bridge for uninterrupted views of the starry sky.

Or opt for a more rustic experience at Long Key State Park, where hike-in, tent-only campsites offer a quiet escape with views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to nature trails.

Soak in the Views on Two Wheels

With the Gulf to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south, the Overseas Highway delivers nonstop views throughout the entire route. Don’t settle for scenery flying by at 45 mph the entire trip. Instead, slow down and explore by bike on the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail.

This bike-friendly, mostly car-free path stretches more than 100 miles through the Florida Keys, following a similar route to the Overseas Highway. Pedal past charming towns, historic landmarks, and beautiful beaches on as much or as little of the trail as you’d like.

If you only have time for a short ride, opt for the Old Seven Mile Bridge segment. The 4.2-mile bike and pedestrian trail follows half of the original bridge out to sea, where riders can enjoy 360-degree views of open water. After your ride, take the new Seven Mile Bridge — spanning from Marathon to the Lower Keys and accessible cars — to continue your journey westward.

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Reach the Southern Edge of Island Chain

Follow the route to the end of the road, where you’ll find Mile-Marker Zero and the Southernmost Point in the contiguous U.S. Snap a picture at this iconic landmark, marked by a colorful buoy, before you explore all the fun to be had in Key West.

Wander down Duval Street to browse local shops. Then, experience the island’s vibrant mix of cultures through its cuisine. Enjoy traditional Cuban dishes, like ropa vieja and picadillo, at El Siboney. Or sample fresh conch fritters, conch chowder, and other seafood delicacies at Conch Republic Seafood Company.

When you’ve had your fill, venture beyond where the map turns blue on a sailboat tour through the Lakes Passage. Local boat captains expertly navigate these shallow waters between backcountry islands that act as a haven for young fish and other marine life before they move into deeper water.

If you have time for a longer voyage, head to Dry Tortugas National Park. Accessible by seaplane or boat, this remote island gives true “edge of the Earth” vibes and can be the perfect launch pad for more adventures on or under the water.

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This article was sponsored by the all-new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport.