I have been searching the site for an answer to my question, but while there is a lot of information about the drive down to the Keys, there is little information about the trip back. We will be driving from Marathon to Ft Lauderdale on Sunday June 9 for a 1:30 pm flight. How long do you think it will take us? I realize that it is not high season, but I am worried about getting stuck in a mess! Thanks.

Amy,

We did the same drive back in Feb. We took Car Sound Road (sp?) as soon as we got to it which was a bit faster but it was still almost a 4 hour drive. I would leave by 7 to be safe.

I don't know if you planned it that way or not, but it's wise to leave from Marathon back to FLL or MIA versus Key West. I have made the drive from Key West to either FLL or MIA for an early afternoon flight a few too many times and that does require leaving about 7:00 or 8:00. But from Marathon I'd plan on leaving about 9:00 - 9:30. I assume you're returning a rental car. (FLL is better with rental car returns than MIA.)(Also, I admit - I'm a fast - but safe - driver, and I know the roads. So, keep that in mind.) Keep in mind - if there's a bad accident, you are screwed. Last couple of times I've been stopped by accidents; luckily it was always on the way down.

Card Sound Road.

I would plan for 3-4 hours easily. Weekends are usually always busy here and Sunday morning seems to be when most people leave and drive up north. The 9th is also the end of a fairly busy week in Key West called Pride Fest. More people than usual might be on the road that morning.

Give yourself PLENTY of time. I would also plan on 3-4 hours driving time.

Thank you so much everyone for your advice!
amy