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Florida Keys holidays
Florida Keys holidays

Florida Keys holidays

Holidays from £904pp

The stunning keys are a perfect escape no matter whether you're looking for action and adventure, or to lie on a beach doing quite literally nothing.

Hire a car and hit the road along the famous Seven Mile Bridge, exploring colourful coral reefs, unspoilt beaches, an array of water sports, and great nightlife. There's no need to rush when you're on 'island time', so break up the journey and explore as many of the different keys as you can. The only thing missing from the Keys is you.

 

Essential information for Florida Keys

  1. Time Zone

    UK - 4hrs

  2. Language

    American English

  3. Currency

    US Dollar $

  4. Flight information

    9-10 hrs direct

  1. Flight schedule

    Virgin Atlantic fly daily to Miami from London Heathrow.

  2. Do I need a visa?

    Yes. You'll need to obtain approval no less than 72 hours prior to travel to the US via the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) scheme.

    Find out more about Travel Visas here »

  3. Driving times

    From Miami, Key Largo is 55 miles, Islamorada is 72 miles, Duck Key is 100 miles, Key Vaca is 104 miles and Key West is 160 miles. Locations in the Keys can be pinpointed by the use of 'mile markers', which denote the distance in miles from Key West.

Island hopping and highway driving: Florida Keys explained

Strung out on the edge of the Caribbean, the Florida Keys are a sweeping chain of over 1,700 spectacular islands, untouched natural habitats and pristine coral reef. But don’t worry — among all the natural wonder, Florida Keys holidays are well-equipped to give you a bit of 21st century luxury too. You’ll find all the premium hotels, buzzing bars, sophisticated restaurants, and water sports you’ll need to get your heart racing.

Linked by U.S. Highway 1, otherwise known as the Overseas Highway, the journey through the Florida Keys is one of the most iconic in the country. If there’s one thing more American than a road trip, it’s a road trip that takes you all the way to Key West!

Here's our quick guide to the main areas:

Surrounded by nothing but blue waters and basking in the Caribbean-like climate, you’ll instantly find yourself falling in love with this natural paradise. Whether you’re interested in scuba diving on the only coastal coral reef in the United States, spotting some exotic wildlife, or just kicking back, relaxing and soaking up the sun on the beach, our Florida Keys holiday packages have it all. With their pastel-hued homes, turquoise waters, and quirky communities, these islands are as perfect as a cold slice of Key lime pie on a hot afternoon.

So, if you’re looking for sun-soaked holidays to the Sunshine State, but want something a little different from your traditional Florida fare, check out our luxury Florida Keys hotels and holiday packages.

View all 14 places to stay

Need more travel tips or holiday help?

In our opiniotn, the best time to visit the Florida Keys is from December to April, during the dry season. This is when you'll experience the most pleasant weather—lots of sunshine, warm temperatures, and low humidity. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like snorkeling, boating, and exploring the Keys' beautiful natural landscapes.

If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, late spring (May) can also be a great time to visit. The weather is still fantastic, and there’s a bit less hustle and bustle.

When it comes to finding the best place to stay in the Florida Keys, it really depends on the vibe you're after, but there are a few standout spots that will make your trip unforgettable!

Key West offers a vibrant, laid-back atmosphre, which is great for those looking to experience a blend of relaxation, nightlife, and history.

Islamorada is perfect for water lovers, fishing enthusiasts, and peaceful retreats.

Marathon Key is ideal if you're looking for a family-friendly experience with great beaches.

And Key Largo is the place for scuba divers and nature lovers.

The Florida Keys are packed with activities that cater to every type of traveler—whether you're into outdoor adventures, water sports, or simply soaking up the laid-back vibe.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is the first underwater park in the U.S.. This park offers world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks.

Across all the keys, for a unique view of the underwater world without getting wet, opt for a glass-bottom boat tour—perfect for families or those not looking to dive.

Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," Islamorada is the perfect spot for a fishing excursion. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll find plenty of charters ready to take you out for a day on the water.

Getting around the Florida Keys is an adventure in itself - whether you’re soaking in the sun in Key West or exploring the stunning sights of Key Largo.

The most convenient way to explore the Florida Keys is by car. The Overseas Highway connects all the islands, and driving along this scenic route offers jaw-dropping views of turquoise waters and lush landscapes. 

For a more laid-back way to see the sights, renting a bicycle is a great option—especially in Key West, which is known for its bike-friendly streets. Cruise around at your own pace and explore hidden gems, quaint streets, and scenic waterfronts. Plus, it’s eco-friendly!

The drive is about 7 to 8 hours, depending on your starting point and how often you stop along the way. It’s a journey that takes you across several distinct landscapes, each with its own charm, and ends with the iconic Overseas Highway connecting the islands of the Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys are about 60 to 70 miles south of Miami, depending on which part of the Keys you’re heading to. It’s a scenic drive that takes about 1 to 1.5 hours via US-1 South, the iconic road that connects the Keys to mainland Florida.

If you’re heading to Key Largo, the first major island, it’s the closest and will take you around 1 hour. But if you're planning to drive all the way to Key West, the southernmost point in the continental U.S., it will take you closer to 3 hours. Along the way, you’ll cross breathtaking bridges and enjoy stunning water views, especially as you approach the famous Overseas Highway.

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