Self-Drive: Miami and the Florida Keys

11 days from £1700 per person

Renowned for year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and a lively Latin culture, Florida is the perfect destination for a self-drive city and beach holiday. This 11-day journey encompasses the vibrant city of Miami, the unique eco-systems and wildlife of the Everglades and the sun-kissed Florida Keys dotted in the Caribbean Sea. Starting in Miami, spend three days exploring Little Havana, the beautiful art-deco architecture and tropical beaches the city has to offer before continuing to the Everglades National Park. This wetland region, made up of mangroves, marshes and rivers, offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and some of Florida’s most diverse landscapes. Next to the tropical islands of Islamorada and Key West, two of the Florida Keys’ most beautiful destinations. Snorkel in crystal waters, soak up the laidback atmosphere and enjoy a rum cocktail at sunset.

Miami - Everglades City - Islamorada - Key West - Miami

Itinerary Highlights

Discover Miami’s Little Havana - a melting pot of Cuban culture. Wander through the vibrant and colourful markets, sample a famous Cuban sandwich and experience the passionate salsa.

Kayak though the mangroves and waterways of the famous Everglades exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Drive one of America’s greatest roads, Route 1, crossing 42 bridges to the tropical islands of Islamorada and Key West.

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Miami and the Florida Keys

Day 1 UK to Miami

Today start your journey by boarding your non-stop international flight from the UK to Miami. On arrival pick up your hire car and make your way to your hotel in South Beach. Located on the south-eastern tip of Florida, Miami is known for its white sandy beaches, Hispanic culture, Art Deco architecture and thriving arts scene. (N)

Accommodation in Miami: Fortune House Hotel (or similar)

Days 2 & 3 Miami

Spend the next two days exploring Miami at your leisure. Whilst you acclimatise you may choose to relax at Miami’s most famed and beautiful beach – South Beach. Cool off in the turquoise waters or explore the pastel-coloured art deco buildings and seafood restaurants that line the shore. The Cuban flavours of Little Havana in the city is also not to be missed where you can learn about the cigar making process or how to salsa dance. Art enthusiasts should visit one of the cities many excellent galleries including the Pérez Art Museum or the Institute of Contemporary Art. (N)

Accommodation in Miami: Fortune House Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 Miami to Everglades - 83 miles

This morning depart Miami and drive west through the scenic Tamiami Trail to Everglades City where you will stay overnight. Spend the day exploring Florida’s famous Everglades - this diverse ecosystem features North America’s largest mangrove forest that supports a varied range of wildlife including alligator, otter, turtle, manatees and panther. Opt to take a three-hour kayak eco-tour through the meandering waterways as you take in the sights and sounds of this wonderful environment. (B)

Accommodation in Everglades: Ivey House (or similar)

Day 5 Everglades City to Islamorada - 128 miles

Today continue your journey and head for the Florida’s Keys, a series of tropical islands dotted in the Caribbean Sea. Your first stop will be the quaint village of Islamorada where you will stay for the next two nights. Known for its laidback atmosphere, wonderful coral reefs and sunset spots, Islamorada is a perfect destination for relaxation. (B)

Accommodation in Islamorada: Pines & Palm Resort (or similar)

Day 6 Islamorada

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Islamorada and the surrounding islands. With plenty of parks and beaches to choose from throughout the village you may choose to take a gentle hike and discover the varying landscapes or cool off in the warm clear waters. Snorkelling is also highly recommended as the region is renowned for its pristine coral reefs and colourful fish. In the evening enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Caribbean Sea and sample some of Florida’s freshest seafood. (B)

Accommodation in Islamorada: Pines & Palm Resort (or similar)

Day 7 Islamorada to Key West - 81 miles

This morning depart Islamorada and continue your drive to Key West on one of America’s greatest roads, the Overseas Highways. Consisting of 42 bridges over the Caribbean Sea pass sandbars and turquoise lagoons as you enjoy one of the most spectacular drives in the world. Arriving in Key West, fall in love with this tropical, vibrant oasis where the laidback lifestyle is infectious. (B)

Accommodation in Key West: Heron House Court (or similar)

Days 8 & 9 Key West

Spend the next couple of days at leisure to do as much, or little, as desired. Once home to Ernest Hemmingway, Key West is dotted with rum bars, seafood restaurants and art galleries. Simply relax on one of the islands beautiful beaches, admire the romantic white-washed buildings, sample some classic Creole cuisine or soak up some live Reggae music. (B)

Accommodation in Key West: Heron House Court (or similar)

Day 10 Key West to Miami - 164 miles

This morning retrace your journey back over the Overseas Highway to Miami where you will spend your last night. Enjoy your final afternoon at leisure where you may wish to visit the historic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, take a dip in the Venetian Pool – an early 20th century pool boasting waterfalls and grottos or walk around eclectic Coconut Grove. That evening discover the wonderful eateries and bars that Miami has to offer. (N)

Accommodation in Key West: Heron House Court (or similar)

Day 11 Miami to the UK

Today depart Miami and make your way back to the airport to drop the hire car off and board your international flight back to the UK. (N)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Hotel accommodation and taxes
Car hire as specified

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature
Meals unless specified

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.

Self-Drive: Miami and the Florida Keys

11 days from £1700 per person

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Miami and the Florida Keys

What To Do Next?

What's included

What's not included

Guide to Price