Florida keys in February-March

Question

Heading down to the keys in a small RV. Wondering if we need to make reservations for the whole trip? Not sure how long we want to stay at each location between Key Largo and Key West. Was hoping to split our stays between RV parks and hotels, etc. advice would be appreciated

Answer

Heading down to the Florida Keys in an RV sounds like an amazing adventure! The February-March timeframe can be quite busy, as it falls during the winter season and spring break for many visitors. It's a good idea to plan ahead, especially if you're traveling during peak times. Here’s some advice on reservations, RV parks, and hotels in the Keys:

1. Reservations: In the Florida Keys, particularly in February and March, reservations are strongly recommended for both RV parks and hotels. While it’s possible to find availability without a reservation, it can be a challenge, especially during busy times. Many of the popular RV parks and hotels book up weeks in advance, so having a general idea of your itinerary and making reservations ahead of time will give you peace of mind. Since you're planning to split your stay between RV parks and hotels, here's some guidance:

RV Parks:
- During peak season (winter through early spring), RV parks tend to fill up quickly, especially in the more popular locations like Key Largo, Marathon, and Key West. It's wise to book your RV spots ahead of time to secure a spot, especially if you're staying in highly sought-after parks. Many RV parks also offer amenities such as hookups, pools, and proximity to the water, making them an appealing option for an extended stay.
- If you're flexible on the length of time you want to stay at each park, some parks may offer a few open spaces for walk-ins, but these will likely be limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. In general, reservations for RV parks are a safer bet to avoid any issues with availability.
Hotels:
- Hotels, especially in Key West, can also fill up quickly during this period. If you're planning to stay at hotels in addition to RV parks, it's best to make reservations at least a few weeks in advance. This is particularly important if you're aiming for specific locations or more popular hotels.
- If you're open to different accommodations, you might also consider looking into vacation rentals or boutique inns, which could offer more flexibility in terms of availability.

2. Flexibility: Since you’re not sure how long you want to stay at each location, it’s great that you’re planning on splitting your time between RV parks and hotels. If you’re staying in more remote or quieter parts of the Keys (e.g., Key Largo, Marathon, or Big Pine Key), you may have more flexibility, but Key West can be crowded, especially during spring break. It’s a good idea to have a rough plan in place, but try to leave some room for flexibility if you decide to stay longer in one place.

3. Popular Areas to Stay Between Key Largo and Key West: Here’s a brief breakdown of some key areas to consider for your stay:

Key Largo: The first stop as you enter the Keys, Key Largo offers beautiful waterfront parks like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and several RV parks with easy access to snorkeling, diving, and boating. It’s also home to quieter beaches and great seafood. If you want a laid-back start to your trip, Key Largo is perfect.
Islamorada: Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," Islamorada is great for fishing enthusiasts. It’s a bit more laid-back than Key West, and you can find RV parks right along the ocean. There are also hotels and boutique accommodations offering a peaceful retreat.
Marathon: In the middle of the Keys, Marathon offers more RV parks and a range of hotels. It's a quieter stop compared to Key West but offers attractions like the Turtle Hospital and Sombrero Beach. The area is also home to several affordable and family-friendly RV parks.
Key West: The southernmost point of your trip, Key West is a vibrant and bustling destination with many hotels, boutique inns, and vacation rentals. There are a few RV parks nearby, but reservations are a must as this is a highly popular area. Enjoy the nightlife, historic sites, and unique atmosphere of the island.

4. Planning for the Drive: The drive from Key Largo to Key West is beautiful, and you'll pass through some amazing spots along the way, like Seven Mile Bridge and Big Pine Key. If you're planning to drive your RV between these locations, make sure to allow time for leisurely stops and sightseeing. It’s a scenic route with plenty of photo ops!

In summary, for your Florida Keys RV adventure, it’s highly recommended to make reservations for RV parks and hotels, especially during February and March when the Keys are more crowded. Plan your stay in advance, but also keep some flexibility if you want to adjust your length of stay at each location. Enjoy your trip through the Keys – it’s an unforgettable journey!

Florida keys in February-March

More Florida Keys Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions