Key West to Tybee Island: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

This road trip begins at the southernmost point of the continental U.S.—Key West, Florida—and ends at Tybee Island, Georgia, covering roughly 570 miles. The route uses US-1 north through the Florida Keys, then I-95 north to Savannah, and finally GA-80 east to Tybee Island. Expect a minimum of 10 hours of pure driving time without stops.

A curious historical fact: the Seven Mile Bridge in the Keys was originally built in 1909 for Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad, part of which was destroyed by the 1935 Labor Day hurricane. Today's highway follows that same path.

Driving from Key West to Tybee Island requires careful planning, especially for fuel and tolls. The 570-mile journey crosses multiple eco-zones, from tropical islands to marshlands.

• Fuel stops are plentiful along I-95, but on US-1 through the Keys, stations are spaced farther apart—fill up before leaving Key Largo.
• Tolls: Florida's Turnpike (from Miami to just north of Orlando) costs ~$15; all tolls are electronic (SunPass or Pay-by-Plate).
• I-95 is free from Jacksonville to Savannah; expect heavy traffic around Miami and downtown Savannah.

The route showcases three distinct ecosystems: the coral-reef islands of the Keys, the Everglades near Florida City, and the coastal marshlands of Georgia. A highlight is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo.

• Key West to Florida City: turquoise waters, mangrove tunnels, and bird sanctuaries. Stop at Bahia Honda State Park for pristine beaches.
• Miami to Jacksonville: urban sprawl gives way to pine forests and the Okefenokee Swamp (just west of I-95).
• Savannah to Tybee Island: maritime forests, salt marshes, and the Tybee Island Lighthouse (built 1736).

Local commerce varies: souvenir shops in Key West, citrus stands near Fort Pierce, and seafood markets on Tybee. For hidden gems, use how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Safety is paramount. US-1 through the Keys is a two-lane road with tight curves and occasional flooding during high tide. I-95 is well-maintained but can be congested in metro areas.

• Family-friendly stops: The Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West (cats included), Miami's Vizcaya Museum, and the Tybee Island Marine Science Center.
• Pet-friendly framework: Most National Parks allow leashed pets on trails; many hotels along the route are pet-friendly (e.g., La Quinta chain).
• Fatigue management: Rest areas every 30 miles on I-95; take breaks at the Miccosukee Service Plaza (Mile 62 on I-75) or the Okeechobee Rest Area.

Hidden off-route: Drive south to the historic St. Augustine (just off I-95 near Mile 310) for the oldest city in the US. For family, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm is a winner.