A Graduation Trip to Remember

Our Van Life Adventure from Miami to Key West

For my daughter Violet’s graduation trip, I wanted to do something a little different—something unforgettable, adventurous, and full of sunshine. So, I rented a camper van (a Solis from Indie Campers) in Miami, loaded it up with roller skates, snorkel gear, swimsuits, and just enough food to get us by, and hit the road for a week of memories in the Florida Keys.

Tip:

Pack light, bring your own gear if you can (snorkels, skates, towels)

Starting in Miami: Skates, Tacos, and Beach Vibes

After picking up the van in Miami, our first stop was Miami Beach. We laced up our roller skates and cruised around the beachside paths with my high school friend Brandon, who made the day extra special. We stopped for incredible tacos, sipped drinks at a breezy cabana bar off the beach, and ended the day lounging at the beach near where the cruise ships depart. That memory is even more cherished now, as Brandon has since passed away—it was a beautiful day with someone I’ll always hold close.

Before leaving the city, we stopped at a grocery store to stock up: bagged salads, sandwich supplies, fruit, and drinks—simple, packable foods that could handle van life.

First Overnight: Cracker Barrel, the Unsung Hero

Heading south, we discovered you can park overnight for free at some Cracker Barrels. We found one, settled in for the night, and slept surprisingly well. The next morning, we grabbed breakfast there before continuing our journey into the islands.

Bring:
  • Stock up on groceries early to avoid pricey tourist areas
  • Bug spray = must-have
  • Cracker Barrel or Walmart can be great overnight van spots
  • Reserve state park campgrounds ahead of time—some fill up fast

The Keys: State Parks, Snorkeling & Sunshine

Our first Keys destination was Hammock State Park—but we forgot bug spray. Big mistake. We lasted maybe 15 minutes before we dashed to the nearest store to buy bug repellent.

We eventually landed at another state park with snorkeling and underwater sculptures (John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, if memory serves). We made lunch in the van and picnicked near the water. With limited space, we kept packing light: sarongs, swimsuits, shorts, summer dresses, and a couple essentials.

We brought our own snorkel gear and roller skates, which meant less room for much else—but more opportunity for fun.

Key West: Ocean Views, Fish Tacos & Six-Toed Cats

Finally, we reached Key West, where we stayed at a stunning campground backed right up to the ocean. Each morning brought a breathtaking sunrise over the water, and each evening, we cooked meals in the van—like fish tacos with mini Coronas—and watched lizards and birds wander through our site.

We skipped swimming due to a massive floating patch of sargassum (seaweed) that washed ashore and, frankly, smelled terrible. But Key West didn’t disappoint. We visited the Hemingway Home, met the famous six-toed cats, and learned how they’re federally protected.

We shopped, enjoyed a delicious lunch somewhere amazing (but my memory’s fuzzy), and of course—had Key Lime Pie. Violet commemorated the trip with a tiny seahorse tattoo, a perfect symbol of her graduation and the magical ocean energy of the Keys.

The Journey Back

On the way back up the Keys, we stayed at one last upscale campground with a restaurant and live calypso music. We ate good food, swayed to steel drums, and soaked up every last drop of our island time.

Cost Breakdown:

This trip wasn’t super expensive—and with planning, I had flights, van rental, and campgrounds paid off before we even left.

Night time sky at remote lake while backpacking

Final Thoughts

This trip was a reminder of why we travel—to bond, to experience nature and new places, and to mark important moments in life. I’m so grateful I got to take this time with Violet. The open road, salty air, and starlit campgrounds gave us more than just memories—they gave us time to slow down and just be.

If you’re considering a road trip in a camper van through the Keys—do it. Bring sunscreen, snacks, and a spirit of adventure. Everything else will work itself out.

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