Traveling from Miami and looking for a way to experience the stunning Florida Keys without the hassle of planning every detail? This private open-top bus tour might just be what you need. Designed as a full-day adventure, it takes you through the scenic islands of Key Largo and Islamorada, with stops at notable spots and plenty of flexibility. While it’s not a tour for those craving a luxury cruise or intense sightseeing schedule, it offers a balanced blend of nature, culture, and relaxation.

What I like about this experience is its personalized feel—being a private group allows for a more relaxed pace and some room for spontaneous moments. The chance to explore the famous Caribbean Club at Key Largo and feed tarpons at Robbie’s on Islamorada really stand out as memorable highlights. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes the day easier to manage, especially if you’re staying in Miami or Miami Beach.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the price point of $1,515 for up to 14 people might seem steep, especially considering activities like lunch and certain water-based experiences are not included. This means you’ll want to consider the value of that private transport and tailored itinerary versus more budget-friendly options. This tour suits travelers who prefer a private, more personal experience with some flexibility, especially if you’re traveling with friends or a small group.

Key Points

Private group experience offers intimacy and flexibility.
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Miami or Miami Beach, eliminating transportation stress.
Stops at iconic locations like the Caribbean Club and Robbies, with opportunities for feeding tarpons and water activities.
Flexible timing with 6 hours to explore, relax, or add activities.
Not including lunch or activities at Robbie’s means you can tailor the day to your preferences.
Suitable for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, leisure, and cultural spots in a comfortable setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour Experience

If you’re considering this tour, it’s helpful to understand what the day actually looks like. From the moment your private guide picks you up—likely from your hotel in Miami or Miami Beach—you’re set for a scenic drive down to the Keys. The journey itself is part of the experience, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views of the Atlantic and the famous Keys bridges, which are an engineering marvel and a real treat to see up close from an open-top bus.

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The Stop at Key Largo: A Film and Historic Landmark

Your first major stop is Key Largo, the northernmost island famous for the Humphrey Bogart classic Key Largo. It’s a laid-back spot with a strong nautical vibe. The highlight here is the Caribbean Club bar, which many visitors find charming and somewhat unspoiled—an authentic local hangout rather than a heavily touristed venue. Fans of the TV series Bloodline might appreciate the familiarity of its scenery, which adds a bit of pop culture fun to the visit.

This stop gives you some time to stretch your legs, soak in the scenery, and maybe snap a few photos of the lush surroundings. While the tour doesn’t include a dedicated guided explanation about the island’s history or filming locations, the atmosphere alone is worth savoring.

Moving on to Islamorada: The Reigning Recreational Fishing Capital

Next, you’ll head south to Islamorada, often called the “Sportfishing Capital of the World”. This tiny island packs a punch with its large fishing fleet and maritime atmosphere. It’s quieter than Key Largo but brimming with local charm.

Here, the main attraction is Robbie’s, an iconic spot for both water-based activities and feeding the tarpons. For over 30 years, feeding these sizable fish has been a favorite activity, and many reviews praise it as a fun, interactive experience—especially if you’re into wildlife or just love seeing big fish up close. Robbie’s also offers other activities, from boat rentals to eco-tours, which you may choose to pursue if you’re feeling adventurous.

The area also features shops selling locally handcrafted goods and a restaurant, Hungry Tarpon, where you can grab lunch (note: lunch isn’t included in the tour). This gives you some freedom to explore at your own pace and decide how to spend your time here.

Free Time and Water Activities

The tour includes free time for water-based activities, so if you’re into snorkeling, paddle-boarding, or just lounging on the boat, this is your moment. Since these activities aren’t included, you’ll want to bring extra cash if you’re interested or plan to rent gear on-site. The flexibility is a plus, allowing you to shape your experience—whether you want to relax or seek adventure.

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The Return Trip: Scenic Bridges and Back to Miami

After a few hours exploring the Keys, the bus makes its way back along the scenic bridges that connect the islands. The views from the bus are quite photogenic, especially from the open-air top. The entire trip lasts around 6 hours, which is a decent length—long enough to see and do a lot without feeling rushed.

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The Practical Side: Price, Group Size, and Comfort

The price of $1,515 per group—up to 14 people—might seem high at first glance, but it’s important to see what that includes. You’re paying for a private, guided experience with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. For small groups, especially families or friends traveling together, this can be a cost-effective way to have a personalized day without the hassle of public transportation or arranging multiple bookings.

The group size being capped at 14 makes it feel intimate and allows the guide to tailor the experience. The fact that the tour is available in several languages (English, French, Spanish, Portuguese) also broadens its appeal and makes it accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

What’s Not Included

While transportation and the tour guides are covered, lunch and activities at Robbie’s are separate. This gives you freedom to choose where and what to eat, which is a plus if you prefer specific cuisines or want to avoid touristy spots. However, it also means you should budget for these extras.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for small groups who want a personalized, flexible day exploring the Keys, with highlights like the Caribbean Club and tarpon feeding. It’s especially suited for travelers who value convenience, as hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and relaxed waterside experiences.

If you’re traveling with friends or a family that prefers a private setting, or if you just want to avoid large group tours, this experience is worth considering. On the flip side, if your main goal is a guided, narrated tour with in-depth history or all-inclusive activities, you might find this offering a bit light on details.

Final Thoughts

This Key Largo & Islamorada private tour offers a balanced day of sightseeing, wildlife encounters, and leisure, wrapped in the comfort of private transportation. The stops at iconic spots give you a taste of the Keys’ laid-back charm, and the free time for water activities adds a nice touch of adventure. It’s a solid pick for those who prefer a relaxed, customized experience over a big-group bus tour.

While it’s not the cheapest option, many reviews highlight the value of having a private guide and the ease of door-to-door service. If you’re a small group seeking a tailored, scenic escape from Miami, this tour could be a memorable way to see the Keys without the stress of self-planning.

Ready to Book?

From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is mainly focused on sightseeing and water activities, families with older children who enjoy wildlife and boating should find it enjoyable. The tour itself is private, which can be beneficial for families wanting a more relaxed experience.

What is included in the price?
The $1,515 price covers the private group, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the guided transportation. Activities like feeding tarpons and water-based adventures at Robbie’s are available but not included in the price.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including driving, stops, and free time. Starting times vary, so check availability when booking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility. You can enjoy the stops and free time, but specific modifications should be discussed with the provider beforehand.

Is there a guide on the bus?
Yes, the tour is led by a live guide fluent in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, and any gear needed for water activities. Lunch and extra expenses at Robbie’s are separate, so plan accordingly.

If you’re after a laid-back, personalized way to see the Keys with a few iconic stops and some free time for water fun, this tour checks many boxes. Just be ready to manage your own meals and activities, and you’ll probably find it a worthwhile way to spend a day exploring this beautiful part of Florida.