St. Augustine to the Keys

[Lawrence]

Considering a ride from St. Augustine to the Keys beginning the first week of April.  I'm a bit concerned about the spring break crowds and associated traffic along the route. Seeking opinions whether to go ahead or perhaps delay my departure until the first week in May to allow things to settle down.

Thanks for your opinions..

[John Nettles]

Lawrence,
First, welcome to the ACA Forums! 

I personally would either wait until May as you suggested or consider a ride down the center of the state, say from Tallahassee to Fort Meyers (or continue on to Key West via ferry and ride back to Miami). This would allow a lot of bike paths and less people. 

Another issue with spring break is just finding accommodations regardless of price which can easily be double compared to early May. Either have your scheduled nights booked in advance per night if going along the coast or be prepared to spend a lot of time potentially looking for hotels.  It is for those two reasons (lack of reasonable accommodations and the crowds) that I would either wait or go down the center part of the state.

Tailwinds, John

[Lawrence]

Waiting until May does seem to be the wisest choice.

Thanks for your sound advice...

Rgds...

[BikePacker]

Waiting until May does seem to be the wisest choice.

I wish you a great spin down the coast.
Please post us updates.

[SwampYankee]

Just completed Pompano beach to Key West in mid-February. It was a great ride, you’ll enjoy it. As for spring break not sure if late April is still break time for college crowd, that would mostly be high schoolers (families??). I agree early May would avoid them, but also will be hot... give us a report when you get back, safe travels.

[Lawrence]

Thanks to all..

[Westinghouse]

Miami beach declares a state of emergency because of unruly spring breakers. The solution to the problem is a simple one. Exit the beach road on the island at the last bridge before getting to Fort Lauderdale. Get on US 1. Follow it south to Miami, and Brickel Road and continue south. You are not missing anything. Another thing. It is perfectly safe to bicycle through that area, anyway.