Miami/Key West itinerary

Question

Hi, flying into Miami 4/11 late night or 4/12 afternoon and leaving 4/17. Would like to visit tropical gardens, fruit and spice park, marathon for the turtle center, snorkeling nearby? Everglades if time allows, maybe stay in key biscayne - do not want to stay in Miami - not interested in nightlife. We would like to drive to Key West also but where should we stay overnight? Stops on the way from Miami to Key West? Please suggest itinerary - our flight may get in around midnight on 4/11 to Miami airport and be very early in the morning on 4/17 to fly out. Thanks!

Answer

Given your preferences for a nature-focused, relaxed trip avoiding Miami nightlife, here’s a suggested 6-day itinerary for your Florida Keys and Miami/Key Biscayne visit:

Day 1 – Arrival in Miami (4/11 or 4/12)

If arriving late night on 4/11, consider staying near Miami airport or drive directly to Key Biscayne if feasible. Otherwise, stay overnight near Miami airport or a quieter area near Coral Gables. If you arrive on 4/12 afternoon, head directly to Key Biscayne to settle in.

Check into a Key Biscayne hotel or vacation rental.
Evening: Light walk along the beach or dinner nearby.

Day 2 – Miami Gardens & Everglades

Visit Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables for tropical plant displays and butterfly gardens.
Optionally, drive to Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead (~1 hour from Coral Gables) to explore exotic fruits and spices.
If time allows, take a short drive to the Everglades National Park for a short airboat tour or walking trail to see wildlife.

Day 3 – Drive to Key West

Leave early from Key Biscayne or Miami area to drive the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1) to Key West. Plan for stops along the way.

Stop 1: Key Largo – optional snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Stop 2: Islamorada – consider lunch and visit the local artisan shops.
Stop 3: Marathon – visit the Florida Keys Turtle Hospital for a short tour.

Overnight options:

Stay in Marathon if you want a shorter final drive to Key West the next day.
Alternatively, drive straight to Key West and stay 2 nights there to enjoy the area without rushing.

Day 4 – Key West exploration

Morning snorkeling trip or glass-bottom boat tour.
Visit the Southernmost Point, explore Old Town Key West for art galleries and local shops.
Evening: Sunset viewing at Mallory Square.

Day 5 – Return drive toward Miami/Key Biscayne

Leave Key West mid-morning and consider stops at Islamorada or Key Largo for photos, lunch, or a short beach visit.
Arrive back in Key Biscayne for 1 night to break up the drive.

Day 6 – Departure (4/17)

Early morning flight from Miami. Since you’re staying near Key Biscayne, plan ~45 minutes drive to Miami Airport to allow for rental return and check-in.

Additional tips:

Booking accommodations in Key Biscayne and either Marathon or Key West in advance is recommended.
Start drives early to avoid peak traffic on the Overseas Highway.
Snorkeling and turtle hospital visits may require reservations, so check in advance.
Carry sunscreen, hats, and water, as outdoor activities can be sunny and warm in April.

This itinerary balances tropical gardens, wildlife, snorkeling, and relaxed beach time, while giving you the scenic drive experience through the Keys without focusing on nightlife.