The Dolphin Expressway: The Fast Way West
Tolls, exits and what you’ll pass on the quickest route from the beach to the Everglades.
If you want to get to the Everglades quickly, the Dolphin Expressway is your road. Officially it’s State Road 836, and it runs east to west across the middle of Miami-Dade County, from I-395 near downtown to NW 137th Avenue in the western suburbs.
How the route works
- From Miami Beach, cross the MacArthur Causeway and continue onto I-395.
- Follow the signs for SR 836 West, the Dolphin Expressway.
- Stay on it past Miami International Airport and the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) to its western end at NW 137th Avenue.
- Head south to SW 8th Street, then turn west. The Everglades start where the houses stop, at Krome Avenue.
Tolls
The Dolphin Expressway is an all-electronic toll road with no cash booths. You’ll need a SunPass, or you’ll be billed by plate. If you’re in a rental car, check how your rental company handles tolls before you go.
What you’ll pass
The biggest landmark is Miami International Airport, right beside the expressway. Watch for jets on approach just overhead. Farther west, the road runs past office parks, lakes and shopping, including the area around Dolphin Mall near Florida’s Turnpike.
How long it takes
Outside of rush hour, the whole trip from South Beach to our dock at Dade Corners usually takes about 45 minutes. On weekday mornings heading into downtown, and on late afternoons, the expressway can back up, so allow an hour or more.
Prefer the view?
The expressway is fast but not very scenic. For more character, take the Calle Ocho route through Little Havana instead.
Skip the drive. We pick you up.
Every private airboat tour includes round-trip private transportation from your Miami Beach hotel or rental. Call with your address and group size to book.
