5-Day Florida Keys, USA Itinerary
This 5-day itinerary explores the highlights of the Florida Keys, starting in Miami and journeying down to Key West. It balances iconic attractions with local experiences, offering a taste of island life on a moderate budget.
A trip
Duration
5 days
Budget
USD 800-1,200
Activities
22
The Florida Keys offer a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and a laid-back island atmosphere. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to enjoying fresh seafood with a sunset view, the Keys provide an unforgettable escape.
10 must-have experiences in Florida Keys
An Underwater Wonderland
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A Sunset Spectacle
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A Key Lime Pie Pilgrimage
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A Historic Watering Hole Tour
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A Fresh Seafood Bounty
e.g., ,
An Island Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter
e.g., ,
A Literary & Maritime History Dive
e.g., ,
An Iconic Keys Photo Opportunity
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An On-the-Water Adventure
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A Quirky Local Gem
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š Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Florida Keys is during the dry season, from November to May. Temperatures are pleasant (70s-80sĀ°F), humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for water activities. This is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The wet season (June-October) brings hotter temperatures, high humidity, and afternoon showers, along with the risk of hurricanes, but also fewer crowds and lower prices. Key West's popular Fantasy Fest occurs in late October, drawing significant crowds.
The weather is generally sunny and mild with low humidity. Rainfall is minimal, making it perfect for exploring the Keys.
November to May is the dry season, offering pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities.
Major US holidays may result in increased prices and crowds.
Map will appear once all locations are verified
Open in Mapsš£ļøInteresting Detours & Side Trips
- FREE
10:00 AM - Arrive at Miami International Airport (MIA) and pick up rental car
Collect your pre-booked rental car at the airport. Consider booking in advance for better rates. Drive to your hotel in South Beach.
- FREE
12:00 PM - Lunch at La Sandwicherie
Grab a delicious and affordable sandwich at this popular local spot. Try the Frenchie sandwich. Expect a wait during peak hours.
- FREE
2:00 PM - Explore South Beach and Ocean Drive
Walk along Ocean Drive, admire the Art Deco architecture, and people-watch. Take photos of the colorful buildings and vintage cars. Consider a bike rental for faster exploration.
- FREE
6:00 PM - Dinner at Coyo Taco
Enjoy authentic Mexican street food at Coyo Taco. Try the al pastor or carnitas tacos. It's a casual and budget-friendly option.
South Beach, Miami Beach
Close to the beach, restaurants, and nightlife.
š£ļøInteresting Detours & Side Trips
- FREE
9:00 AM - Drive from Miami to Key Largo
Enjoy the scenic drive along the Overseas Highway. Stop at Robert Is Here fruit stand for fresh tropical fruits and milkshakes. Allow 2-3 hours for the drive.
- FREE
12:00 PM - Lunch at Key Largo Conch House
Try the conch fritters or conch chowder at this local favorite. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and outdoor seating.
- FREE
2:00 PM - Snorkeling/Diving at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Explore the underwater world at the first undersea park in the U.S. Book a snorkeling or diving tour in advance. See colorful coral reefs and marine life.
- FREE
6:00 PM - Dinner at Sundowners
Enjoy a sunset dinner with waterfront views. Try the fresh seafood and tropical cocktails. It's a popular spot, so arrive early.
Key Largo
Convenient location for exploring the upper Keys and John Pennekamp.
š£ļøInteresting Detours & Side Trips
- FREE
9:00 AM - Drive from Key Largo to Islamorada
Enjoy a short and scenic drive to Islamorada. Stop at Robbie's Marina to feed the tarpon. Be prepared for a swarm of fish!
- FREE
11:00 AM - Dolphin Research Center
Learn about dolphins and their behavior. Watch a dolphin show or participate in a swim-with-dolphins program. Book tickets in advance.
- FREE
1:00 PM - Lunch at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar
Enjoy casual waterfront dining with live music. Try the fish tacos or conch salad. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- FREE
3:00 PM - History of Diving Museum
Explore the history of diving and underwater exploration. See vintage diving equipment and learn about famous divers. A great indoor activity.
- FREE
6:00 PM - Dinner at Marker 88
Enjoy waterfront dining with a beautiful sunset view. Try the seafood pasta or grilled fish. It's a bit more upscale but worth the splurge.
Islamorada
Known as the 'Sportfishing Capital of the World' with various activities.
Map will appear once all locations are verified
Open in Mapsš£ļøInteresting Detours & Side Trips
- FREE
9:00 AM - Drive from Islamorada to Key West
Enjoy the scenic drive along the Overseas Highway, crossing the Seven Mile Bridge. Stop at Bahia Honda State Park for beautiful views and a swim.
- FREE
12:00 PM - Lunch at Blue Heaven
Enjoy a unique dining experience in a charming courtyard. Try the famous Key Lime Pie or the jerk chicken. Be prepared for a wait.
- FREE
2:00 PM - Explore Duval Street and Southernmost Point
Walk along Duval Street, the main thoroughfare in Key West. Take a photo at the Southernmost Point buoy. Visit the Hemingway Home and Museum.
- FREE
6:00 PM - Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
Join the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Watch street performers, artists, and musicians as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico.
- FREE
8:00 PM - Dinner at El Siboney Restaurant
Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine at this local favorite. Try the ropa vieja or the Cuban sandwich. It's a budget-friendly option.
Old Town, Key West
Centrally located, walkable to attractions, restaurants, and bars.
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Open in Maps- FREE
9:00 AM - Truman Little White House
Tour the former winter White House of President Harry Truman. Learn about his time in Key West and see historical artifacts. Book tickets in advance.
- FREE
11:00 AM - Key West Lighthouse
Climb to the top of the Key West Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island. Learn about the history of the lighthouse and its keepers.
- FREE
1:00 PM - Lunch at Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe
Try a slice of Key Lime Pie at this famous Key West institution. They also offer other Key Lime-flavored treats. A must-try for any visitor.
- FREE
2:00 PM - Drive back to Miami International Airport (MIA)
Start your drive back to Miami International Airport for your departure. Allow 3-4 hours for the drive. Consider leaving earlier to avoid traffic.
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- Total for a solo traveler ā 5 days mid-range trip, excludes international flights
- Rough estimates ā actual prices vary by season and availability
Food
Activities
Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks for beach days and scenic stops along the Overseas Highway. This significantly cuts down on daily food and beverage expenses.
Look for happy hour specials. Many restaurants and bars, especially in Key West, offer great deals on drinks and appetizers in the late afternoon/early evening.
Utilize free activities: enjoy public beaches, watch the sunset at Mallory Square (Key West), drive the scenic Overseas Highway, or explore local nature trails.
A day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, either by ferry or seaplane. While expensive, the pristine beauty, snorkeling, and historic fort are unparalleled and worth the cost for a unique experience.
Indulge in a sunset sailing cruise or a private fishing charter. These provide memorable perspectives of the Keys from the water, often with included amenities.
Explore beyond Key West. The Middle and Upper Keys (Islamorada, Marathon, Key Largo) offer different atmospheres, often fewer crowds, and can provide better value for accommodations and activities.
Seek out 'dock-to-dish' restaurants or local seafood markets. You'll find the freshest seafood and often better prices than more tourist-centric establishments.
Flights
Book 3-6 months ahead for best prices, especially for peak season (Nov-May).
Accommodation (hotels, rentals)
Book 6-12 months ahead for peak season due to high demand and limited options; 3-6 months for off-peak.
Rental Car
Book 3-6 months ahead, essential for exploring beyond a single Key. Prices increase closer to travel dates.
Dry Tortugas Ferry or Seaplane
Book 6+ months in advance; this popular day trip sells out extremely quickly.
Snorkeling/Diving/Fishing Charters
Book 1-3 months ahead, especially for prime spots and seasons, as capacities are limited.
Popular Dining Reservations
Book 2-4 weeks ahead for sought-after restaurants, especially for dinner during peak times.
Passport/ID
Ensure your passport is valid for international travelers. US citizens need valid government-issued ID.
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
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Quick Actions
Free and without sign-inTrip Summary
Getting Around
Car-centric; major cities have transit
City-specific
Uber/Lyft work nationwide. Rent a car outside major cities.
Food guide is being refreshed for this itinerary.
- Always apply reef-safe sunscreen (required in Key West for chemical sunscreens) and wear a hat and sunglasses. The Florida Keys sun is intense year-round.
- Tipping is customary in the USA. Expect to tip 15-20% for good service at restaurants, bars, and for tour guides.
- Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the entire length of the Keys, as public transportation is limited outside of Key West. The Overseas Highway is a scenic, but sometimes slow, drive.
- Be mindful of marine life and coral reefs. Do not touch or take anything from the water, and ensure all trash is disposed of properly to protect the fragile ecosystem.
- If traveling during hurricane season (June 1st to November 30th), monitor weather forecasts closely and be aware of potential evacuation procedures.
- Book accommodations, popular tours (like Dry Tortugas), and key activities well in advance, especially if visiting during peak season or specific events.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, particularly when spending time outdoors in the sun.
- 1Reef-safe sunscreen (chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone or octinoxate are banned in Key West)
- 2Lightweight, breathable clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses)
- 3Multiple swimsuits
- 4Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- 5Water shoes or comfortable sandals for beaches and boat decks
- 6Insect repellent (especially for evenings and marshy areas)
- 7Light rain jacket or poncho for sudden showers
- 8Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste
- 9Waterproof dry bag for electronics and valuables on boat trips
- 10Basic first-aid kit, including motion sickness remedies if prone to seasickness
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details ā such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options ā closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
š Airalo app or website
š T-Mobile stores or authorized retailers (Walmart, Best Buy)
š AT&T stores or authorized retailers (Walmart, Best Buy)
š Online through Tep Wireless website (requires advance booking)
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Public WiFi hotspots are also available in some areas, but the speed and reliability can vary. Consider using a VPN for security when using public WiFi.
Useful Apps
Download offline maps before you go, as cell service can be spotty in some areas. Check your international roaming plan with your home provider before traveling. Consider purchasing a portable power bank for your devices, especially if you plan on spending long days outdoors.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins (North America, Japan)
Two flat pins + round ground (North America)
120V
60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
18ā20% (before tax)
15ā20%
$2ā5 per bag; $2ā5/night housekeeping
Tipping is expected. 18ā20% is standard at restaurants.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
911
911
911
911 for all emergencies
Payments
Cards preferred everywhere
Universally accepted
Common
Credit cards accepted everywhere. Apple Pay/Google Pay widely available.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to May. The weather is pleasant, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
A moderate budget for a 5-day trip to the Florida Keys ranges from $750 to $1250 per person. This includes accommodation, food, activities, and transportation. Costs can vary depending on the time of year and your choice of activities.
The Florida Keys are generally safe for tourists. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. During hurricane season (June-November), it's essential to monitor weather forecasts and follow any evacuation orders.
The best way to get around is by car, as it allows you to explore the different islands at your own pace. Alternatively, you can use shuttle services or taxis, but these can be more expensive. Key West also has a public bus system.
Some must-see attractions include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, the Dolphin Research Center in Islamorada, Duval Street and the Southernmost Point in Key West, and the Truman Little White House in Key West. Don't forget to enjoy the sunset celebrations at Mallory Square.
You should definitely try Key Lime Pie, conch fritters, fresh seafood, and Cuban sandwiches. Many restaurants offer these local specialties, providing a taste of the Keys' unique culinary scene.
These 10 experiences didn't make it into this itinerary
š¤æAn Underwater Wonderland
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š A Sunset Spectacle
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š„§A Key Lime Pie Pilgrimage
e.g., ,
šŗA Historic Watering Hole Tour
e.g., ,
š¦A Fresh Seafood Bounty
e.g., ,
š“An Island Wilderness & Wildlife Encounter
e.g., ,
šA Literary & Maritime History Dive
e.g., ,
šøAn Iconic Keys Photo Opportunity
e.g., ,
š¶An On-the-Water Adventure
e.g., ,
āØA Quirky Local Gem
e.g., ,
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