Traveling the Florida Keys: Tips for Navigating Overseas Highway

The Florida Keys Overseas Highway is one of the most iconic drives in the United States—and one of the most unique. Stretching 110 miles from Key Largo to Key West, this tropical highway is more Caribbean than American, offering turquoise water views, island breezes, and plenty of “only in the Keys” experiences along the way. If you’re planning a Florida Keys vacation, navigating this road safely and smartly will set the tone for your trip.

The Gateway to the Keys: “The Stretch”

Your journey begins as you leave the mainland and cross into the Keys via an 18-mile stretch of road known locally as “The Stretch.” This portion of U.S. 1 runs from Florida City into Key Largo, with just one lane each way, no exits, and very limited services. Once you enter The Stretch, there’s no turning back—so fuel up, grab snacks, and use the restroom before you go.

Tip: There are two passing zones on The Stretch, but use them wisely. Drivers in the Keys are a mix of cautious tourists and impatient locals, so passing can get hectic. Stay calm, stay alert, and avoid aggressive moves.

Understanding Mile Markers

At the end of The Stretch, you’ll officially be on the Overseas Highway, which runs from Mile Marker 107 in Key Largo down to Mile Marker 0 in Key West. These markers are more than quirky signs—they’re the Keys’ version of an address system. Locals and visitors alike use mile markers to give directions, so you’ll often hear something like, “The best conch fritters are at MM 82, bay side.”

Pro Tip: Remember that the ocean side refers to the Atlantic Ocean, while the bay side faces the Gulf of America.

Speed Limits and Safety

The Overseas Highway is a mix of two-lane and four-lane roadways, with frequent changes in the speed limit. Police presence is high, especially for speeding and illegal passing.

Expect:

• Two lanes through Key Largo down to Islamorada (MM 91).

• A single lane each way through most of Islamorada and Marathon.

• A four-lane section in central Marathon (MM 55–47).

• A two-lane crossing of the 7 Mile Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world.

South of the bridge, you’ll enter Big Pine Key, home to the endangered Key Deer. These miniature deer are found nowhere else in the world. Speed limits here drop significantly—especially at night—to protect the wildlife.

Traffic Realities in Paradise

As stunning as this drive is, the Overseas Highway can be unpredictable. With only one road in and out, accidents or medical emergencies can cause delays lasting hours. Vacationers distracted by the scenery—or by cocktails—can also create unsafe driving conditions.

Plan Ahead:

• Give yourself extra travel time between destinations.

• Always keep water and snacks in the car.

• If the road closes temporarily, know that detours aren’t an option—you’ll just need to wait it out.

The Rewards of the Drive

Despite the challenges, few drives rival the Overseas Highway’s beauty. Imagine turquoise water stretching to the horizon, charming roadside seafood shacks, and unforgettable landmarks like the 7 Mile Bridge. This road trip isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s part of your Florida Keys experience.

Take time to stop along the way for fresh Key lime pie, a photo with Betsy the giant lobster in Islamorada, or a sunset view in Marathon. The journey is just as magical as the destination.

Where to Stay: Casa Feliz, Marathon FL

As you plan your trip down the Overseas Highway, you’ll want the perfect home base in the middle of it all. Casa Feliz Florida Keys, a private luxury beach house in Marathon, offers the best of both worlds: a central location for exploring the Keys and a private retreat where you can relax in comfort.

With four bedrooms, a resort-style pool with waterfalls, hot tub, fire tables, pizza oven, movie room, and a private beach with kayaks and paddleboards, Casa Feliz feels like your own island resort. And with our personalized concierge program, you can enjoy chef-prepared dinners, beachfront yoga, and even luxury picnics without ever leaving the property.

👉 Book your stay direct at Casa Feliz Florida Keys and turn your Overseas Highway road trip into a vacation filled with ease, comfort, and unforgettable memories.