The Old Seven Mile Bridge: A Historic Gem in the Florida Keys
Stretching across the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, the Old Seven Mile Bridge is an iconic relic of early 20th-century engineering. Running parallel to the modern Seven Mile Bridge, this historic span was once part of Henry Flagler's legendary Overseas Railroad, linking the Keys to mainland Florida. Now a pedestrian-friendly route, the bridge offers breathtaking ocean vistas, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful vantage point for capturing Florida's coastal beauty. Whether photographing the bridge's weathered structure, long-exposure water effects, or the endless horizon, this location provides endless creative inspiration.
Best Photography Opportunities
• Golden Hour and Sunset Views
The bridge's western-facing direction makes it an ideal spot for capturing Florida Keys sunsets, with fiery skies reflecting on the shimmering waters below. A graduated ND filter helps balance the exposure between the bright sky and darker foreground.
• Long-Exposure Seascapes
Using an ND filter and a tripod allows for smooth, misty water effects, perfect for minimalist compositions of the bridge's structure disappearing into the horizon. Shooting during twilight enhances the dreamy quality of the scene.
• Leading Lines and Perspective Shots
The bridge's straight, repeating structure creates strong leading lines that draw the viewer's eye toward the vanishing point. A wide-angle lens (16–35mm) exaggerates this effect, adding depth to compositions.
• Wildlife and Marine Photography
The surrounding waters are home to dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles, making this a great location for wildlife photography. A telephoto lens (100–400mm) helps capture distant marine life while maintaining sharp details.
• Drone Photography
Aerial perspectives showcase the bridge stretching endlessly across the turquoise waters, with the contrast between the historic and modern spans creating a striking composition. Flying higher reveals sandbars, marine life, and the stunning patterns of the shallow coastal waters.
How to Get There
The Old Seven Mile Bridge is located in Marathon, Florida, within the Florida Keys. The best access point is near Little Duck Key, where a recently restored 2.2-mile pedestrian section leads toward Pigeon Key. Parking is available at Veteran's Memorial beach, just before the modern Seven Mile Bridge, or at the designated areas near the pedestrian entrance.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning provides soft, warm light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for peaceful compositions. Sunset is the most dramatic time for photography, as the sky transforms into deep oranges and purples. The cooler months from November to April offer clearer skies and less humidity, enhancing visibility and color vibrancy.
Exploring the Florida Keys
Beyond the Old Seven Mile Bridge, the Florida Keys offer countless photographic gems, from coral reefs and mangroves to colorful coastal towns and historic lighthouses. Pigeon Key, a small island accessible from the bridge, provides a glimpse into the Keys' railroad history with restored 1900s-era buildings. Further south, Bahia Honda State Park boasts some of the region's most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. A drive along U.S. Highway 1 reveals endless seaside compositions, tropical landscapes, and charming island life.
Nearby Photography Locations
(accessible via the bridge) – A historic island featuring restored railroad-era buildings, offering unique architectural compositions framed by palm trees and ocean views. The wooden dock provides great foreground elements for wide-angle shots.
(15 minutes away) – Known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, this park offers stunning coastal photography, especially during sunrise. The old railroad bridge remains provide a striking contrast between history and nature.
(10 minutes away) – A quiet, picturesque beach with swaying palms, calm waters, and white sand, perfect for classic tropical landscape shots or long-exposure shoreline photography.
• Big Pine Key & The National Key Deer Refuge
(25 minutes away) – Home to the endangered Key deer, this area offers excellent wildlife photography opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to capture these rare miniature deer in golden light.
• Key West
(1 hour away) – The southernmost point of the U.S. offers a vibrant mix of historic architecture, lively street scenes, and oceanfront sunsets. The Southernmost Point Buoy and Mallory Square's sunset celebrations are must-visit spots for photographers.
The Old Seven Mile Bridge is more than just a historic landmark—it's a stunning photography destination that showcases the beauty of the Florida Keys. Whether capturing its weathered structure against the open ocean, the fiery colors of sunset, or marine life in the surrounding waters, this iconic bridge provides endless creative possibilities.
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