South Florida is flat, but it's never boring. Between the ocean, the bay and the causeways connecting them, there are drives here that feel made for a convertible or a supercar. These are our favorites, starting close to home.
1. Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue, South Beach
This one's about being seen, not speed. Cruise Ocean Drive past the pastel Art Deco hotels and the beach, then continue north on Collins Avenue toward the big hotels of Mid-Beach. Go in the early evening, when the neon comes on and the heat eases off. Parking is tight, so plan on valet. Read more about renting in Miami Beach.
2. The Rickenbacker Causeway to Key Biscayne
Starting near Brickell, the Rickenbacker crosses Biscayne Bay to Virginia Key and Key Biscayne. The view back toward the skyline is one of the best in Miami. At the far end, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park has a historic lighthouse and quiet beaches. The causeway is a cashless toll road, and it's popular with cyclists, so take it easy.
3. Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables to Pinecrest
For something greener, Old Cutler Road winds south under a canopy of banyan trees and past Matheson Hammock Park and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. It's a relaxed, beautiful drive and a great match for a grand tourer like the Bentley Continental GT Speed.
4. A1A north to Fort Lauderdale
A1A runs right along the coast from Miami Beach through Sunny Isles, Hallandale Beach and Hollywood to Fort Lauderdale. It's slower than I-95 but far more scenic, with the ocean on one side most of the way. Finish with dinner on Las Olas Boulevard. The round trip from Miami is about 60 miles.
5. Palm Beach
West Palm Beach is about 70 miles north. Cross the bridge to Palm Beach island, drive South Ocean Boulevard past the oceanfront estates, and stop on Worth Avenue. It's a full day out, so pick a car with plenty of daily miles or plan for some extra-mile charges.
6. The Overseas Highway to the Keys
The big one. US-1 leaves the mainland at Florida City and hops from key to key over the water, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge. Key Largo is about 60 miles from Miami and Key West about 160 miles each way, so a Keys trip works best as a multi-day rental. The five-seat Lamborghini Urus is a comfortable way to bring friends and their bags along.
Before you go
- Every car includes a daily mileage allowance. Check the car's page for its included miles and extra-mile rate.
- Many roads and causeways in South Florida are cashless toll roads. Tolls are passed through at cost plus a small administrative fee.
- Summer afternoons often bring short, heavy showers. Plan open-top drives for the morning or evening.
Want help planning a drive? Call or text (305) 494-5165, browse the fleet, or book online.
