South · Fly into Miami
Florida: Keys & Everglades
Art Deco Miami morning, alligators in the Everglades, reef snorkeling in the Keys.
The route
Land in Miami and don't fight it — one night in South Beach is useful context for what Florida has been. Ocean Drive Art Deco walk, Joe's Stone Crab if you're visiting October–May, and Wynwood Walls for the murals. Drive southwest to the Everglades: the 'River of Grass' is unlike any other park — flat, wet, and full of life once you look closely. Anhinga Trail for birds at arm's reach, Shark Valley tram tour for alligator density, and Flamingo for the backcountry. Overseas Highway south into the Keys: bridge-hopping across 42 islands, Islamorada for snorkeling and sport fishing, and the Florida Reef — third-largest barrier reef in the world. Key West at the end: the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, the Hemingway cats, and Duval Street at whatever level of chaos you prefer.
👨👩👧👦 Kids angle
Everglades Anhinga Trail has birds so accustomed to humans you can photograph them from 5 feet. Keys snorkeling is exceptional for kids — shallow, warm, and abundant. Dry Tortugas National Park (ferry from Key West) is bucket-list level but requires a full day. Key West Aquarium is hands-on and small. Mallory Square sunset is a free daily street performance.
🚗 Rental car
Car essential for this trip — there is no other option. Overseas Highway US-1 is the only road through the Keys. Key West is walkable once you arrive (parking is expensive — use the Park and Ride). Never leave food in your car in the Everglades — raccoons will find a way in.
Season by season
❄️ winter
Peak season. Dry, warm (75°F), low humidity. Best for Everglades. Book ahead.
🌸 spring
Still excellent through April. School spring break weeks are crowded — go in February instead.
☀️ summer
Rainy season — daily afternoon thunderstorms. Cheaper but humid and buggy. Everglades miserable.
🍂 fall
Hurricane season through October. November opens up beautifully.
Best months to visit
Vibes
Flights to Miami
Google Flights
Rental cars
Kayak
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