As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, you might be tempted to keep the bike in the garage and sink deeper into the couch instead of braving the cold. Not so fast – cycling the Florida Coast offers a sunny escape from dreary winter weather. It’s also the perfect way to stay in shape for this summer’s adventures!
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just dipping your toes into the world of long-distance cycling, this route has something for everyone. Find an ideal blend of thrill and relaxation amidst sunny days in the saddle and brilliant sunsets.
How long is the Florida Coast bike route? Where does it start and end?
This ride starts in Jacksonville, FL and spans 590 miles of the eastern Florida coastline to end in Key West. We recommend covering the distance in 9 days, which allows for a comfortable average of 60 miles a day. If you’re looking for an example of a mileage breakdown, visit Bike the US for MS’s MS Bike Ride Florida webpage that has an itinerary laid out for you.
What can I expect while riding the Florida Coast?
This route is remarkable for its gentle elevation and mixture of wide bike paths and roads that make for relaxing cycling. Serene ocean views are plentiful and you’ll have no shortage of local ice cream shops and seafood shacks to refuel along the way.
You’ll get to admire the distinctive Spanish architecture in the historic town of St. Augustine and enjoy snack breaks at sandy beaches and charming local parks.
Heading into the vibrant city of Miami and down towards the tropical oasis of Key West, the route follows over 90 miles of paved cycling paths though unique mangrove forests and enchanting thickets of gumbo-limbo trees.
You’ll be greeted with plenty of wildlife sightings, from egrets and dolphins to alligators and American crocodiles (“swamp puppies”) in the everglades.
As you head towards the finale in Key West, experience the one-of-a-kind opportunity to cycle across the Seven Mile Bridge with cerulean waters on either side of your handlebars.
What if I only have time for a shorter ride?
If you’re more of a busy weekend warrior looking for a bite-sized but incredibly gratifying adventure, riding the stretch of coastline from Miami to Key West is for you. This trip is a great option for a beachy getaway that fits into your packed schedule.
You’ll still get to experience the natural beauty of the coast and the satisfaction of having ridden a multi-day cycling trip without the commitment of having to take time off of work.
How long is the Florida Keys bike route?
This portion of the ride is 170 miles of bliss from the lively city of Miami to the lush paradise of Key West. Three days of riding gives you the perfect balance of exploration and convenience.
Where should I stay while cycling the Florida Coast or Keys as a self-supported rider?
With plenty of beach campgrounds, RV parks, hotels, motels, and airbnb’s, you’ll certainly be able to find accommodations that fit your budget for the entire length of the trip. This Florida beach camping guide could be a great start for looking into lower-budget options in beautiful natural surroundings.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the logistics?
Itching to cycle the sunny Florida coastline but dreading planning your own trip from scratch? Join Bike the US for MS’s Florida Coast team this March to experience the stunning natural beauty while supporting people living with Multiple Sclerosis.
Some perks of our van-supported Florida Coast and Florida Keys rides:
- Route Leaders to guide and support you along the route
- Two support vehicles to carry your food and gear
- Bike mechanic available for any minor repairs
- Water/snack breaks set up every 15-30 miles depending on the terrain
- Nightly accommodations booked for the group
- Assistance and advice on travel and fundraising for MS research and treatment
Our trips come at a minimal cost to you, with just an initial donation which goes towards your fundraising target. You’ll only need to cover the cost of your food during the ride and travel to and from the trip.
Deciding whether or not to bike individually or in a group is a personal decision for each cyclist to make based on their own goals. However, group trips provide a strong sense of community to share this once in a lifetime experience with. Plus you’ll be riding for a great cause!
Testimonials
Don’t take our word for it – hear from cyclists who have ridden the Florida Coast with us for a great cause!
Advice from Richard Davies, who rode with us in 2024:
What was your favorite part of the experience of riding the Florida Coast with us?
“Riding the Keys Bridge for 7 miles was pretty awesome.”
What’s a piece of advice or something you would tell someone who’s considering signing up for the ride?
“While the elevation isn’t anything compared to what some of the MS rides are, you should still train for the ride. Also, this isn’t a race. Stop often and take in all of the scenery you will be riding by. Remember it’s the journey not the destination.”
Hear from Tim Mannie, who also rode with us in 2024:
“The Florida Coast ride was a welcome ride for me, seeing that it was still winter here in Minnesota. I would have signed up for the ride again in 2025 if the dates didn’t conflict with a ski trip… I think that my favorite part of the ride was experiencing the closeness to the water as the ride passed along the Keys. Exploring new areas is another favorite while riding from Jacksonville to Key West.”
Whether you choose to bike the Florida Coast self-supported or with a group like Bike the US for MS, we hope you’re as excited to beat the mid-winter slump with this cheerful adventure as we are. Your Vitamin D levels will thank you and your summer riding buddies will be amazed at what great shape you’re in when warmer weather does finally roll around!
