Overseas Highway
United States, north-america
182 km
5 m
easy
November-April (dry season, avoids hurricane risk)
The Overseas Highway (US Route 1 through the Florida Keys) is a 182-kilometer causeway connecting mainland Florida to Key West across a chain of tropical islands. Built on the remnants of Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad, which was destroyed by a hurricane in 1935, the highway crosses 42 bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge spanning open ocean between Marathon and the Lower Keys.
Driving the Overseas Highway feels like floating on the water, with the turquoise Atlantic Ocean on one side and the calmer waters of the Florida Bay on the other. The route passes through a series of distinct communities, from the sport fishing capital of Islamorada to the bohemian culture of Key West. Along the way, travelers can stop to snorkel coral reefs, visit the historic Bahia Honda State Park, or spot tiny Key deer on Big Pine Key.
Where is it?
Overseas Highway is located in Florida, United States (north-america). Coordinates: 24.7136, -81.1053
Driving Tips
Avoid holiday weekends when traffic backs up for hours. Mile markers count down from Florida City (MM 126) to Key West (MM 0). Speed limits are strictly enforced. Fuel up in the Upper Keys as prices increase further south. Sunglasses are essential for the glare off the water.
Road Surface
Paved, flat multi-lane highway with long bridge sections
Road Details
- Country
- United States
- Continent
- north-america
- Region
- Florida
- Length
- 182 km
- Max Elevation
- 5 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Surface
- Paved, flat multi-lane highway with long bridge sections
- Best Season
- November-April (dry season, avoids hurricane risk)
- Coordinates
- 24.7136, -81.1053
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