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Home » North America » Florida

Epic Florida Road Trip Guide for 2024

Going on a  Florida road trip  is hands-down the best way to experience this state! With endless beaches, hidden springs, tons of food, and lots of attractions, you’re going to need a flexible mode of transportation.

Having your own car or campervan is absolutely the best way to visit all of the best places in Florida as you’ll be able to go wherever you want!

Florida is a big and beautiful place but, more importantly, it can also be a pricey one. Everyone who wants to visit Florida wants to lay on the beach and so you’ll have to compete not only with crowds but inflated prices.

In this Florida road trip guide, we’ll cover several topics concerning the Sunshine State. You’ll learn to avoid overpriced hotels and how to camp like a pro, find the state’s hidden gems, navigate the roads, and explore the best that Florida has to offer!

So grab ur’ flip-flops, boardshorts, and a cooler full of cold beer because we’re off to warm beaches and eternal sun of glorious Florida!

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Florida USA Road Trips Costs

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There are loads of road trips opportunities in the USA , some of them a bit more affordable than the other. Florida is by no means a cheap place to go on holiday. Everyone and their grandma wants to come here either to vacation or retire, and so, as a consequence, Florida can be expensive.

At The Broke Backpacker, we are never scared of inflated prices! We’re constantly looking for new ways to cut travel costs and have a whole repertoire of useful tips to share with you. Even if we are unable to travel for $10/day like in our favorite countries, we can at least help you minimize expenses.

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The average daily budget for a Florida road trip is between $150-$200 (ouch…) – this includes gas, a rental car, lodging, food, drink, and entry fees.

• Lodging will be one of your largest expenses on your road trip. Real estate here is very expensive and hotels will take a chunk of change from your budget. Be sure to stay in hostels and camps to save money. Another great option is to stay at one of the epic Airbnbs in Florida .
• Gas is relatively cheap in Florida but can still end up costing you quite a bit due to distances. It’s very difficult to gauge how much gas you will actually need, so it’s very important to be flexible with this expense. Try and stick to a budget by following planned road trips.
• Food and drinks  in Florida are, thankfully, much less intimidating. You can eat cheaply by cooking your own food and eating at food carts. If you wanted to, you could still eat and drink like a king one night and spend a small fortune in the process.

Below is a breakdown of the average costs associated with traveling to Florida.

Average Costs of Florida Road Trips

Rental car:  $30-$100

RV rental:  $100-$300

Gallon of gas:  $2.85

Average AirBnB:  $120

Hotel room:  $140

Hostel:  $25-$35

Campground:  $5-$20 (sometimes free!)

Sandwich:  $6-$8

Beer at a bar:  $4-$8

Coffee:  $2-$4

Bottle of Whiskey from market:  $18

Dinner for two:  $30-$60

Below is a list I created of sample road trips through Florida. Varying from 4 days to 14 days in length, they cover many of Florida’s top attractions. Each itinerary provides day-by-day highlights, which are meant to give you some solid Florida road trip ideas.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

4 Day Florida Itinerary: Road Trip to the Florida Keys and Everglades

4 Days: Road Trip to the Florida Keys and Everglades

Day 1: Everglades

4 Days in Florida isn’t a lot. So if you’re expecting to see everything that the state has to offer, you’ll be disappointed. However, you can fit in the most important hotspots without a problem or stress. Start your first day in Miami. Organize your rental car and head to the first destination on your road trip, the Everglades National Park . Once you’ve found a lodge or camping ground to stay at, check out the epic walks and hiking opportunities. These are our favorite ones:

• Anhinga Trail
• Shark Valley Trail
• Long Pine Key Trail

Day 2: Everglades

Day 2 is going to consist of more exploration and adventures. Go on a full-day water safari with an airboat or check out the Ten Thousand Islands area. This national park in Florida is HUGE. You’ll have plenty of ground to explore.

Once you’ve had enough exploring, return to your lodge or your Everglades camping site to prepare to move on tomorrow. Do make sure not to leave any waste behind!

Day 3: Florida Keys

Enough nature – we’re going back to civilization! You’ll head to the Florida Keys for your 3rd day. Make sure to depart early so you’ll have more of the day. Enjoy the beautiful scenery on the Florida Keys Scenic Byway. These are our favorite stop-overs on the way:

• Rain Barrel Sculpture Gallery
• Theater of the Sea
• Turtle Hospital
• Ernest Hemmingway’s House

If you’re a passionate Scuba diver, you’ll love Key Largo and Biscayne Bay . The water is crystal clear! Once you arrive in Key West , it’s time to sort your lodge once again. Luckily, there are quite a few awesome Airbnbs in Florida Keys .

Day 4: Florida Keys

On the last day of your Florida road trip, you should explore Key West further. Bar hopping is especially popular and you can be sure to meet loads of nice people from all over the world. If you miss socializing, this is your go-to for the day. If you’re more of an adventurer, check out the Dry Tortugas National Park (this is more like a day trip though). At the end of the day, it’s time to pack your bags again for the next morning departure. And if you do decide to stay a bit longer, Islamorada is the perfect central location in the Florida Keys.

7 Day Florida Itinerary: A1A Florida Road Trip

7 Days: A1A Florida Road Trip

Day 1: Key West

Don’t waste any time on your first day! Arrive in Miami, sort your rental car/campervan and head to the Florida Keys straight away. There are a couple of cool keys on the way which we covered in the 4-Day-Road-Trip above – be sure to check them out. Once you arrive in Key West, make sure to find the perfect lodge and check in. Now it’s time to explore the area. If you’re not exhausted from the car ride, head out to the bars for a couple of drinks.

Day 2: Fort Lauderdale

For Day 2, you’ll depart early in the morning and head to Fort Lauderdale. You can stop in Biscane Bay for diving or in Miami for lunch and a bit of a beach tanning session. Once you arrive in Fort Lauderdale, check into your lodge. Now it’s time for some lounging on the beach, chilling in the sun and do some people watching. To end the day right, explore Las Olas nightlife.

Day 3: Cocoa Beach

Day 3 is going to be a bit of driving but mainly surfing and relaxing. Depart from Fort Lauderdale and head North to Cocoa Beach. It’s an epic place to fresh up your surf skills, learn new tricks or find you balance on a board for the first time. The beach is beautiful as well – perfect to step up your tanning game!

Day 4: St Augustine

You’re going to continue the Florida road trip on A1A Northbound. On the way, check out the Kennedy Space Center and stop by Datona Beach for lunch and lounging. You’ll arrive in St. Augustine, where you can explore the area if there’s enough time left of the day or simply relax. St Augustine makes for a great place to stay as a rest stop.

Day 5: Jacksonville/Amelia Island

Day 5 will be an early rise. Visit Castillo de San Marcos early in the morning and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Once you feel like it, depart St. Augustine and head to Jacksonville. This is where you’ll stay for the night unless you have more time on your hands – then you should head to Amelia Island.

Day 6: Vero Beach/Miami

You’re going to be leaving Jacksonville (or Amelia Island) early in the morning and head back south. Make sure to stop over in the quiet Vero Beach – it’s a real treat! You can also drive further (6-7 hours) to Miami, sort your accommodation (we higly recommend Miami’s Airbnbs ) and spend the night there.

Day 7: Miami

If you stayed in Vero Beach, it’s time to depart for Miami. If you’re already there – even better, you can take your time enjoying and exploring the lively city. Our favorite hotspots are:

• Little Havana
• Coral Gables
• Design District

14 Day Florida Itinerary: Ultimate Florida Road Trip

14 Days: Ultimate Florida Road Trip

Day 1-6: Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, Cocoa Beach, St. Augsutine, Jacksonville, Amelia Island *

For this ultimate 14-day Florida road trip, you’ll spend the first 6 days like we already described in 7-day itinerary above. The only difference is that you won’t head down to Miami on the last day.

Day 7: Emerald Coast

Depending on where you stayed on Day 6, you’ll either depart from Jacksonville or Amerlia Island. From there, head west on I-10. You can stop over in Tallahassee for lunch (or even spend the night here). If you decide to travel further, head to the Emerald Coast and check in at your preferred lodge. If there’s some time left of the day, you can spend it on the beach – you deserve a rest after all that driving!

Day 8: Emerald Coast

There are so many beaches on the Emerald Coast and they’re all worth exploring. So this is exactly what you’ll be doing on Day 8 of your road trip. To make sure you’ll check out the absolute best, have a look at these:

• Miramar Beach
• Fort Walton
• Grayton Beach
• Perdido Key

Consider visiting the Forgotten Coast, which is one of the weirder Florida attractions, but definitely a cool spot to explore.

Day 9: Tampa Bay

Say goodbye to the Emerald Coast and head for Tampa via the I-10 and I-75. You can stop in Gainesville for a recharge on coffee, gas and snacks. Once you arrive in Tampa, check into your lodge and spend the afternoon exploring the city and maybe even St. Petersburg. We’d recommend visiting these cool attractions:

• The Dali Museum in St Pete
• Museum of Art in Tampa
• The Fine Arts Museum in St Pete

Spend the night out in Ybor City or stay in St Petersburg.

Day 10: Tampa Bay

Day 10 is for exploring the beaches of Clearwater and relaxing to the absolute max. These are the best beaches:

• Caladesi Island
• Honeymoon Islands
• Clearwater Beach

If you’re not into relaxing, consider making the trip to Siesta Key in Sarasota, which has some of the whitest sand in the world and some amazing places to stay . There are also some incredible vacation rentals in Sarasota for an affordable price.

Day 11-12: Everglades *

These two days are for adventures and a bit of physical activity in the Everglades. Depart Tampa and check into your new lodge or set up to camp. You can spend the rest of day 11 by exploring the area. There are many famous hikes in the Everglades but these are the best:

On day 12, you’ll explore the area in more detail. You could also go on a full day safari with an airboat. If you’ve got the time, explore the Ten Thousand Islands area as well. Once the day comes to an end, head back to your cap or lodge and chill out.

Day 13: Miami

Depart the Everglades and head to Miami. Depending on when you’ve left, you can have a look at Miami’s cool neighborhoods:

• Little Haiti

Go out for a drink at night in Miami’s best bars, pubs and clubs.

Day 14: Miami

Depending on how hungover you are, you can either spend the day chilling on the beach or go diving in Biscayne Bay – both very cool activities. You can also check out South Beach, Bal Harbor or Surfside. Since this is the last day, why not get fucked up again? You’ve earned it! But make sure your bags are packed.

*Indicates that this day was copied from a previous itinerary

Backpacking the USA has some amazing places to offer. And Florida hosts loads of them! Below is a list of the best Florida road trip stops. Study them well and decide which ones you like the most.

Road Trip to Miami

Ah yes, backpacking Miami! Home to beautiful people, some of the best beaches in Florida, and a nightlife that doesn’t quit.

Miami is one of the richest and wealthiest cities in the USA. Its glittering city center, which hosts the tallest skyline in America, is home to many prosperous banks and institutions. Miami receives more tourists than any other American city and is undoubtedly the best city to visit in Florida.

It’s also one of the most culturally unique cities in the USA thanks in part to its enormous immigrant population. More than 70% of the population is non-White Hispanic and more people speak Spanish as a first language, rather than English. For this reason, Miami is jokingly referred to as being the “Capital of South America.” Some people assume that Miami is a dangerous melting pot , but we can assure you that this isn’t the case, unless you’re looking for trouble.

Miami’s Latin residents really give the city the flair that it’s known for. Walking around the interesting neighborhoods of Little Havana and Little Haiti  will offer insight not only into the local cultures but also afford you chances to try their amazing cuisines. Just keep your head on a swivel as some parts of these districts are more dangerous than others, especially at night.

Being the chic destination that is though, Miami is not short of elegant, affluent districts. The Design District , Brickell , Coconut District , and Coral Gables are among the trendiest neighborhoods in town and offer visitors lots in the way of splurging.

Those looking for hipper, more downtempo areas to hang out in should check out Wynwood , Midtown , and Upper Eastside .

Of course, most people make a road trip to Miami for the beaches, which are amazing. Most are located on the separate island city of Miami Beach . Be sure to visit South Beach , Aventura , Surfside , and Bal Harbor for the best beaches in Miami. South Beach, in particular, is very famous for its art, food, and fashion scenes. If you want to step your vacation up a notch, you can rent a boat in Aventura for the day and explore the sub-tropical Floridian waters.

Best Hostels in Miami

Epic Places to Visit in Miami

Miami Itinerary

Where to Stay in Miami

Road Trip to Fort Lauderdale

Just north of Miami is the notorious Fort Lauderdale , famous for once being the spring break capital of America. If you ever watched MTV in the 80s and 90s, then your impression of this city will be wasted college kids who cause utter mayhem.

These days, Fort Lauderdale is much more laidback, having done the best it could to shake the worst of the spring breakers. The city is, in fact, very beautiful and is often called the “Venice of America” due in part to the many canals that run through it.

With some of the best artificial diving in Florida just off the coast and plenty of amazing beaches, Fort Lauderdale is filled to the rim with amazing things to do.

Las Olas is the main strip in Fort Lauderdale and hosts most of the city’s art galleries, museums, and shops. It’s a very clean and pretty part of town, lined with boutique stores and billowing trees. If you’re looking to explore a bit of Fort Lauderdale, this is the place to start.

Of course, most people visit Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, which are, expectedly, very good. The main “Strip” of beaches starts at Las Olas Blvd and ends around Sunrise Blvd . If you’re wondering where to stay in Fort Lauderdale , this would be your go-to area!

Between these two streets are the most popular stretches of sand as well as the busiest cafes, restaurants, and bars in the city. You’ll find loads of awesome Fort Lauderdale hotels here as well.

In reality, the beach continues much further though – all the way into Boca Raton and even beyond. Those looking for a quieter beach shouldn’t have a problem.

Be sure to visit the Bonnet House and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park . The latter offers good hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Road Trip to the Florida Keys

No road trip to Florida is complete without visiting the Florida Keys. Located southwest of Miami in the Caribbean Sea , these are among the most beautiful places in Florida.

More impressive though – they are connected to the mainland via Highway 1A1 , which has to be one of the most stunning roads in the world.

A road trip through the Florida Keys is definitely one of the best things to do in the state! While driving on this route, you will be surrounded on all sides by the gorgeous Caribbean Sea. The views are amazing and it feels like you are gliding above the water.

Most people make a road trip to the Florida Keys while on holiday to visit the many beaches, go diving, and sample some local delicacies like key lime pie.

Though the road through the Florida Keys is long, the Keys themselves are not large by any means. Admittedly, most attractions are small here – the beaches are certainly compact – and are fairly limited actually.

There are a few things to do in the Florida Keys that are noteworthy. Strewn throughout the keys are several excellent parks that offer quintessential Caribbean scenery. Bahia Honda Beach is one of the best places to play in the ocean for sure.

Key West has a thriving nightlife as well as Ernest Hemingway’s former home, which is now a museum. Diving is perhaps the most popular activity in the Keys as it’s excellent here, especially near Key Largo .

The westernmost portion of the Keys is Dry Tortugas National Park. The Florida 1A1 does not go this far into the ocean – it ends at Key West – so the park is only accessible by boat.

Dry Tortugas hosts Fort Jefferson , the largest brick masonry project in the Western Hemisphere, and the Tortugas Islands . Set amongst the shoals of Caribbean coral, the fort itself is extremely impressive if not for its scope then for its gorgeous natural surroundings.

Road Trip to the Everglades

The Everglades are the most visited national park in Florida and arguably one of the most important natural sanctuaries in the USA.

Among the shallow waters, the labyrinthian cypress groves, and the towering pines are some of the most precarious wildlife species in the South, including the Florida panther, manatees, and the American crocodile, to name a few.

The Everglades are an extremely vital part of the surrounding ecosystems and provide crucial support the wildlife and humans as well. The habitability of much of Southern Florida depends on the Everglades so much so that it became a protected national park and the source of great rehabilitation.

A road trip through the Everglades will be a very enlightening if not exhilarating experience. The landscape here is powerful and exploring it is certainly one of the most unique things to do in Florida.

There is are two roads that enter the Everglades: the first is Florida 1A1 running along the eastern edge of the park, and the second is  Highway 9336 , which penetrates deeper into the park. Be aware there is only one gas pump at the very end of 9336. Though many of the park’s attractions are accessible by vehicle, the best parts of the Everglades require a watercraft.

The Everglades are most often experienced via an airboat – those weird looking watercrafts with giant propellers. Booking a tour with one of these will grant you plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.

The Everglades also hosts a number of hiking and bike trails. The dry season is the best time to do both as the trails will be clear and the water will be low enough to spot local wildlife. Some popular trails include Anhinga , Shark Valley , and Long Pine Key Trail .

Road Trip to Tampa Bay

In a state where every city feels either like a resort or an amusement park, Tampa Bay may be the only place that actually feels like a city. Tampa Bay is one of the most important economic sectors in the state, being a crucial center for technology, shipping, research, and manufacturing.

Tampa Bay is arguably grittier if not more authentic city than Miami or Fort Lauderdale, which can feel somewhat simulated at times. That being said, Tampa Bay is still a Floridian city, which means that the sun keeps on shining (statistically more than Miami, actually) and the beaches are never too far away. For these reasons, Tampa Bay is one of the best cities to visit in Florida.

Tampa Bay is a huge metropolitan area composed of several smaller cities. The three largest cities in Tampa Bay area are  Tampa , St. Petersburg , and Clearwater . Tampa is considered the hub of the three. As a whole, the Tampa Bay area is one of the best and cheapest places to visit in Florida as well.

Tampa has several districts worth visiting. The Downtown area has most of the city’s cultural centers including the Museum of Art , the Henry B Plant Museum , the Aquarium , and the Children’s Museum .

Most fun to visit is Ybor City , which is the historic immigrant quarter. Here you’ll find theremnants of Tampa’s once-prosperous cigar business, not to mention the best bars and restaurants in the city.

Across the bay is St. Petersburg, which is like a smaller version of Tampa. Like Tampa, there are several fascinating museums in St. Petersburg like the Dali Museum , Florida Holocaust Museum , and Fine Arts Museum .

St. Pete has a thriving nightlife! Be sure to go out to Central Av on the first Friday of every month for a big block party.

Finally, Clearwater has the best beaches in the area. Staying in Clearwater Beach is considered a must since it’s the best city beach but local state parks like Sand Key , Caladesi Island , and Honeymoon Islands are fierce competitors.

Road Trip to Orlando

Referred to as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando hosts some of the largest and most notorious amusement parks in the entire world.

Orlando is great! Here you’ll find Meccas of amusement like Disney World , Universal Resorts , and LegoLand , all of which attract more than 70 million visitors per year. These complexes are absolutely enormous and are practically self-contained cities unto themselves, complete with private lodgings, restaurants, and public transport.

While you’re more than welcome to visit these places, you won’t find any suggestions for the themeparks in this guide.

Outside of the amusement parks, Orlando itself is a garden-city that hosts some of the most impressive botanic gardens and parks in the state. Places like Harry P. Leu Gardens , Mead Botanical Garden , and the Historic Bok Sanctuary offer an impressive variety of flowers and flora from all over the world.

Orlando is also surrounded by countless lakes. Lake Eola , near the center of Orlando, is one of the centerpieces of the city. This lake hosts the majority of the city’s public events and festivals as well.

Lake Tohopekaliga and Lake Kissimmee are also very bucolic places that offer good wildlife viewing opportunities – in particular, bald eagles are commonly spotted.

North of Orlando, there are several freshwater springs. These springs often have crystal-clear water – a phenomenon that Central Florida is famous for – and are great places for swimming.

Rock Springs , the Ocala National Forest , and Rainbow Springs are all worth checking out. In the cooler winter months, Blue Springs sometimes receives visiting manatees as well. (Rainbow Springs is a bit further west and is actually a great road trip from Tampa as well.)

Best Airbnbs in Orlando

Best Places to Visit in Orlando

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Where to Stay in Orlando

Road Trip on the Atlantic Coast

We’re returning to the Atlantic Coast of Florida and starting a long journey north all the way to the border of Georgia. Along the way, you’ll be seeing more of the best of Florida, including some of its most famous attractions. The best surfing in Florida is also found on this part of the coast.

Directly east of Orlando on the Atlantic Coast is the Kennedy Space Center , which has been the primary launching pad for NASA’s spacecrafts for the last 30 years. Rockets are still launched at Kennedy but, these days, mostly carry cargo. You can visit the Kennedy Space Center in person, and check for upcoming launches here.

On to the beaches though! South of Kennedy are the quieter coastal communities of Cocoa Beach and Vero Beach . Cocoa Beach and the nearby Sebastian’s Inlet are two excellent places to go surfing in Florida.

Directly north of Kennedy is the Canaveral National Seashore , which is one of the longest stretches of undeveloped beach in Florida. Beyond this is Daytona Beach , home to the Daytona 500 Races. The beach suburbs of Flagler , Ormond , and Smyrna are where you’ll find the best waves for surfing.

Moving on north we arrive in St. Augustine , which is most notable for its Spanish heritage. This anachronistic town is a relic from Spanish colonialism and is full historical architecture. The Castillo de San Marcos is the most impressive colonial site.

Finally, we arrive in the largest city on the Atlantic Coast of Florida: Jacksonville . Jacksonville is a sprawling metropolis but still slightly smaller than Miami in terms of population. The city does have a number of museums and historical landmarks, but most people visit for the beach (what else?).

There are a ton of attractions in Jacksonville , but most visit for Jacksonville Beach , a lovely city beach but pales in comparison to the nearby Amelia Island , which is one of the most desirable vacation spots in the USA.

Road Trip to the Florida Panhandle

The Panhandle is Florida’s best-kept secret. Aside from hosting the state’s capital, Tallahassee , this region also has some of the best beaches in Florida. Best of all, you can find some very affordable lodges here, making it one of the best cheap places to visit in Florida too.

The most developed part of the Florida Panhandle is the Emerald Coast aka the Miracle Strip aka the Redneck Riviera .

This area includes the larger coastal cities of Pensacola , Panama City , and Destin . Between these cities are some absolutely spectacular beaches that are relatively untouched compared to overrun coastline around Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

The Emerald Coast attracts families from all over the South, who want to make their own road trip to Florida. For this reason, this area receives far less international tourists, which is probably why it feels less hectic and also probably the reason why people call it the “Redneck Riviera.”

Those who really want to go into the Heart of Darkness that is Florida should head to the Forgotten Coast . The local towns found here are among the least visited communities in Florida.

Though the Forgotten Coast has its fair share of beaches, it’s much more rugged (in a Floridia kind of way) and has a more coastal forest. Consider going on an adventure here if the rest of the state feels boring to you.

The interior of the Florida Panhandle is where you’ll find the state capital of Tallahassee. As the administrative center of the state, Tallahassee has lots of activities to offer . One of the highlights are the several historical museums that exhibit everything from colonization to WWII to natural phenomenon.

Aside from being the capital, Tallahassee is also a college town, hosting the immensely popular Florida State University , which means that this town can get pretty wild on weekends and game days.

Check out our list of the  Best Places to Visit in the USA  for inspiration on this entire country!

Off the Beaten Path Florida Road Trip Destinations

Want to take a less-traveled road trip route in Florida? Then check out these off the beaten path locations for a chance to see something different!

• Sarasot: An eclectic town that has some absolutely stunning beaches and cultural landmarks. Most importantly, Sarasota has the Siesta Key, which has been called the cleanest/whitest beach in the world. If we’re being honest, Sarasota isn’t really unknown and really isn’t off the beaten path (it’s a short road trip from Tampa) but, regardless, it is still worth mentioning.
• Gainesville: This city hosts one of Florida’s most popular higher-learning institutions – the University of Florida. The university is arguably the best and home to the most active student population in the state, though with parties happening all the time. Several freshwater springs are very close to Gainesville as well, which make for good day trips.
• Naples: A very quiet town that has some of the best beaches in Florida (we heavily emphasis on the “quiet” part). Not much exciting happens in Naples, probably because most of the population is in their golden years. Visit here if you need a good place to cure a massive hangover from Miami and need some quality beach time. It’s pretty close to Sanibel Island as well, which is definitely worth a visit.
• Big Cypress National Preserve: This is the northern portion of the Everglades that features more swampy scenery. It is much less visited than the national park and a great alternative. Hunting, camping, and hiking are all popular here. The 1000-mile-long Florida Trail also starts in Big Cypress and runs all the way to the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Roadside Attractions in Florida

Looking for weird Florida attractions? Nothing gets stranger than the state’s roadside attractions! These odd yet iconic landmarks are often found out in the middle of nowhere and have become some of the most popular road trips in Florida.

If you need to take a break from a long drive, try stopping by one of these 5 Florida roadside attractions for a moment.

• The Fountain of Youth (St. Augustine): Geriatrics may have been seeking a way to turn back time when they fled to Florida but this Fountain of Youth is, unfortunately, only a museum. Juan Ponce de Leon famously arrived here and declared the legendary fountain existed at a local spring. Nowadays, the spring water is sold to visitors, wondering if they will actually become younger from drinking it.
• Weeki Wachee Mermaids (Weeki Wachee): One of the most culturally significant roadside attractions in Florida, this place features mermaids – trained performers – swimming around a freshwater pool and doing stunts for attendees. It has since become a state park.
• Flamingo Gardens (Davie): A real-life Garden of Eden that features hundreds of plant and animal species. The animals are often brought to the park to be rehabilitated following an accident- some are released while others remain due to serious injury.
• Goofy Golf (Panama City): One of the most extravagant and kitschy golf courses that you’ll ever see. 18 holes with giant, strange, and, most of all, artistic obstacles.
• Skunk Ape Research Headquarters (Ochopee): Been to Colorado and Oregon and still can’t find the elusive Bigfoot? Florida has its own version of the monster, Skunk Ape, who terrorizes locals with his horrible smell. See the evidence here.

Florida Scenic Drives

Looking for more Florida road trip ideas? Check out any one of these scenic routes below, which feature some of the best places to visit on a Florida road trip.

• Florida Keys (Florida 1A1): Arguably the most well-known and beautiful road in Florida, you can travel overseas via this impressive landbridge to the Florida Keys. On this route, you’ll pass by the occasional atoll and mangrove forest but mostly you’ll just be surrounded by the cerulean waters of the Caribbean Sea.
• Big Bend (Florida 98, 329, 65): A remote road in Northwestern Florida that features lots of wetlands, old growth forest, and animal habitats. This is one of the most unique places in Florida with some of the most interesting wildlife in the state including carnivorous plants, several avians, and Florida bobcat. There is beautiful Gulf-scenery as well.
• The Grade (Florida 714): A soft-used road that connects Stuart and Okeechobee Lake. Features pastoral Floridian scenery and giant trees that form a canopy over the road.
• Lemon Bay/Myakka Trail (Florida 776): A very quiet and secluded part of Southern Florida that features old-Floridian settlements and hidden beaches. Great area to explore in Florida if you want to get away from the tourist masses and areinterested in history. There are good walking trails in the area as well.
• Florida Black Bear National Byway (Florida 19, 40): A series of roads that wind through the Ocala National Forest, which is one of the most beautiful places in Florida. Inside the forest are sand dunes, secret glades, and a series of stunning crystalline pools. This is one of the coolest places to explore in Florida.
• The Ridge (Florida 17): This route affords views of quintessential Central Florida, including citrus plantations, dusty roads, and inland lakes. Along the way is the Bok Tower, a giant structure in the middle of nowhere that “sings,” which has to be one of the coolest things in Florida.

Best Diving in Florida

Being at the nexus of the gorgeous Caribbean Sea and the highly nutritious Gulf of Mexico, Florida has some of the most spectacular underwater worlds in North America! With myriads of reefs and underwater wrecks, there is no end to the diving opportunities in Florida.

Refer below for a list of some of the best diving in Florida.

• Tenneco Towers – A sunken oil rig turned into the largest man-made reef in Florida. Swimming in this behemoth structure and watching the ocean life takeover is definitely one of the cooler things to do in Florida.
• Blue Heron Bridge – A very convenient dive site located just north of West Palm Beach . The bridge shelters lots of amazing marine life like octopuses, seahorses, angelfish, and rays. Good for snorkelers and divers.
• Biscayne National Park – Located in the Eastern Florida Keys. Good mix of wrecks and natural reefs that is more preserved thanks to the “national park” title. Popular dive sites include Elkhorn Reef, the Alicia wreck, and Ajax barrier reef.
• Key Largo – Features some of the most impressive shipwrecks and artificial reefs in North America, and is one of the best areas in the Florida Keys. Spiegel Grove is the largest wreck and attracts the most attention. Bibb and Duane wrecks, as well as the Molasses Reef, are also worth seeing. Also hosts a giant underwater Jesus.
• Devil’s Den & Blue Grotto – The best cave diving in Florida. These grottos, located near Williston in Central Florida, have some clearest water in the state and preserve many strange objects; from fossils to the remains of a drowned man.
• Crystal River – The best place to go swimming with manatees ! Only snorkeling is allowed in the areas where the manatees frequent but divers will find plenty of interesting sites nearby. Non-manatee sites feature underwater springs and schools of grouper, snapper, and largemouth bass.

Florida, being the tourist behemoth that it is, has a vast array of hotels to choose from. Lodging in Florida runs the gamut from swanky resorts to charming bungalows to cheap motels . Between these many options, you’re sure to find the right one for you. For a unique experience, check out these epic treehouses in Florida . You may only visit Florida once so why not make it a memorable stay!

Make no mistake though – lodging in Florida ain’t cheap.

If you’re on a budget road trip in Florida and need a hotel, you’ll have to stick to the cheaper motels and roadhouses. These lodges can be pretty basic, sometimes offering no more than a few walls and a roof over your head. Expect to pay no less than $80 for budget hotels in Florida.

Airbnbs are sometimes more preferable to hotels as they can be cheaper and more interesting. There are some pretty wild vacation rentals in Florida – I’ve seen tree houses, houseboats, man caves, and even a whole private island! There are many awesome vacation rentals in Miami that make for an excellent starting point for your road trip.

If you like the homely comforts but don’t fancy self-catering, consider checking out a bed and breakfast in Florida which at least provides you with a hearty breakfast before a days exploring.

There are many hostels in Florida and these are usually the most affordable lodging options, especially for solo travelers. Florida hostels offer just as good if not better quality of amenities than conventional hotels. Be aware that hostels located near vacations areas like Fort Lauderdale can be overly loud and raucous.

If you’re feeling lucky you could try your hand at Couchsurfing, but the competition for hosts is quite high.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Best Budget Accommodation for a Florida Road Trip

Camping in Florida

Camping is one of the best ways to go on a budget Florida road trip! There are all kinds of campgrounds in Florida that offer a wide range of amenities and rates. Generally speaking, there are four types: private , public , dispersed , and backcountry/primitive . Below is a brief explanation of each.

• Private – Larger campgrounds that offer the most amenities including communal kitchens, showers, and maybe onsite restaurants. Most appropriate for demanding campers. Most expensive as well. Payment is made through the office of the owners.
• Public – More basic campgrounds that offer limited but crucial amenities. Running water, electricity, and bathrooms should be (but are not always) present. Good prices. Payment is made to a public organization either online or via a dropbox at the camp.
• Dispersed – aka wild camping, primitive camping . Camping in an area that is not an official campground but is still legal. Little to no amenities. Almost always free.
• Backcountry/Primitive – Camps located in the wilderness areas. Almost always require a hike to reach. Often no facilities so campers must bring food, cooking gear, camp supplies, etc. Permits are usually required and can be arranged at a nearby ranger station.

A lot of campgrounds, especially those at the national parks, can fill up very quickly. Consider booking a campground ahead of time to ensure that you have a spot.

If there are no campgrounds left at a specific place, there may be walk-up sites available, which you’ll need to arrive early to claim. If you strike-out on the walk-up sites as well, there may be overflow camping nearby.

The best places to find free camping in Florida are the Water Management Areas . Similar to the West Coast’s BLM, conventional campers will find camping in the FWMA very straightforward – RVs campers may have difficulty finding a larger space. For a larger compendium of free camping in Florida, refer to this website.

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Best Time to Visit Florida

Florida is subject to a semi-tropical climate. This means that Florida only has two distinct seasons – a hot, humid summer and a cool, dry winter.

The winter months (November-April) are generally considered the best months to visit Florida. Temperatures are pleasant, rain is sporadic, and the air is usually crisp.

This time of year also sees the greatest amount of tourists, which means that prices will be at their highest levels. Granted, prices shouldn’t be so high as to dissuade those looking for a budget road trip in Florida but these people may want to take advantage of the campgrounds during this time.

Summers in Florida (May-October) are the rainy seasons, which means storms, high winds, and a shit ton of rain. Thankfully, rain usually falls in the late afternoons – those who want to visit the beach can still do so in the mornings. Prices are usually lower during this time.

Oddly enough, the summer does see some sporadic spikes in prices due in part to families going on vacation during the holidays. Since most families only visit certain destinations in Florida, like Disneyworld (Orlando) and the Keys, you can usually avoid the hordes with the right planning.

Hurricane season is officially from June-November and peaks between August-September. Hurricanes are not to be taken lightly as these natural disasters cause huge amounts of damage to property and lives.

Hurricanes generally do the most damage in the South of Florida in the Gulf and on Caribbean shores but have been known to travel as far north as the Atlantic coast. Be very aware of the weather alerts when on a summer road trip in Florida.

Why Visit this Part of the World

There’s a reason why working Americans dream of settling in Florida and celebrities consistently visit this state. Florida has some of the best beaches, best parties, best weather, best food, best vacation spots, and a whole lot more superlatives in the entire United States.

Florida represents a lot of Americans’ idea of paradise (just ask Ash from Evil Dead) and, for this reason, many retire here.

Florida is a unique state with its mixture of culture, beauty, tourism, and political charge. Nowhere else in the country will you find such a strong immigrant population, which is so prevalent, mind you, that many portions of the state don’t even feel like the USA at all.

Miami is the centerpiece of the state and one of the most desirable cities in the world, right up there with San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York City. It is a supremely glamorous place with glittering towers and shining residents who exude confidence. With some of the most beautiful city beaches ever and a host of world-class restaurants, you’d be hard-pressed to find a place more satiating to hedonistic desires.

If you get tired of Miami’s exuberance and Latin culture, there’s the whole other part to the state as well! You can hang out in hip Tampa Bay, eat barbecue in Jacksonville, and swim in Central Florida’s turquoise pools. Better yet, there are still more and more beaches – more than you could possibly visit in a lifetime! If you really want to experience the best of Tampa Bay, you can charter your own yacht at an affordable price.

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers and Road Trippers

Below is a list of Florida road trip ideas for saving money. Try and practice these as much as possible.

• Rent an economy car: Prices can be as low as $25/day depending on the time of year and how far in advance you reserve. Economy cars are also more fuel efficient so you’ll save on fuel. Use apps like ViaMichelin to find cheap gas, which, seriously, always ends up being one of the most surprising and costly expenses on a road trip.
• Use vehicle relocation services: These brilliant services offer huge discounts to people on the condition they get a vehicle to a certain place at a certain time. No joke, you can rent a car sometimes for as low as $1/day! Availability is very limited though, so keep a watchful eye on the sites. Check immova and Cruise America to start with.
• Sleep overnight in an empty lot: Though not technically legal, people sleep in parking lots all the time. Make sure the lot is safe by asking around. Walmarts are reportedly good places to park overnight as they allow overnight parking.
• Camp: Unless you want to fork out big bucks for a lodge, you have to camp. Campgrounds are way less expensive and sometimes even free. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking.  If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Cook your own food: Eating out can be very expensive. Cook your own food as much as possible to save – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove. Otherwise, have a fancy night out at a food cart.
• Do free shit: There are lots of free activities in Florida! From hiking to laying on the beach to going to the local monuments; all of these things cost you nill. Be sure to keep your ear to the ground for all things free in Florida.
• Buy an America the Beautiful Pass : Seriously, if you’re visiting more than two national parks, you’d be a fool not to buy this.
• Pack a travel water bottle : It’s good for your wallet and the environment.

Camping in Florida – Gear Checklist

Camping is a very enjoyable activity in Florida. You could sleep in your car or an RV while on a road trip to Florida but sleeping outside under the stars is way more fun. Having a good tent will keep you comfortable on those chilly nights and give you lots of flexibility when it comes to finding a place to sleep.

Packing for Florida is just as important as planning your trip. So here are the absolute essentials:

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Books to Read during your Florida Road Trip

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Florida. Read one or two and you may have some great road trips ideas for Florida…

• To Have and To Have Not – A family man gets involved with the drug smuggling business in the Key West and ends up in a strange affair. Written by the great Ernest Hemingway.
• Back to Blood – Explores one of the culturally distinct and independent cities in the USA through the eyes of Miami cop, Nestor Camacho. An exploration of the Cuban and Latin communities by the highly respected Tom Wolfe.
• The Yearling – A young Florida boy living in the backwoods finds a wounded faun and nurses her back to health. He must struggle to keep it safe from predators and the harshities of life.
• Their Eyes Were Watching God – One of the most important and culturally uplifting novels for the African-American community. Told through a series of flashbacks, which occur in mostly in Slave-era Florida.
• Rum Punch – The crime novel that inspired Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown . A low-level flight attendant and secret smuggler, Jackie Burke, get caught between the law and her devious employer.
• The Orchid Thief – A man becomes obsessed with acquiring an extremely rare flower and goes on an epic quest to Florida to obtain it.
• Lonely Planet: Florida – It’s sometimes worth traveling with a guidebook.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Make Money Online whilst Traveling in Florida

Want to stay in the USA longer? Worried that you don’t have enough cash for a longer Florida road trip? One idea is to make money while traveling!

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start  teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Renting a car is the most popular way of getting around Florida. There are a myriad of car rental agencies here that offer varying deals and varying models.

To find the best rental car deal in the USA, use search engines that compare the prices from individual companies. We personally like using rentalcars.com as they’ve never failed to give us a great price.

Renting an RV in Florida is also a great option. Although it might come out as a bit more expensive, because of gas and higher prices at campgrounds, it allows you to not worry so much about your camping gear and makes for some pretty epic road trips!

We suggest booking a campervan with Outdoorsy as they usually have a good selection and good prices. Better yet, Broke Backpackers also get a $40 discount with Outdoorsy! Just use the coupon code “BACKPACKER” when checking out.

The roads in Florida are generally very good and a sedan or economy car should deliver you to most of the state’s top destinations. Only in the most remote portions of the swamps, will the roads be so bad that you need 4×4 or at least high clearance.

Tips for Saving Money on Car Rentals in the US

• We mentioned before that you can reach out to vehicle relocation services, like immova and Cruise America , as a way of saving heaps of cash on rentals. Pursue these as best you can as they can save you a lot of money. Don’t get your hopes up too much though, as availability is always limited.
• Car insurance isn’t always mandatory in the USA but is highly encouraged. This being said, you don’t necessarily have to buy car insurance from the company you’re renting from. Purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.
• Many credit card companies offer free car insurance if you book the car with the proper card. Call your credit card company for more information regarding terms and conditions.

Food in Florida

Floridian food is a mix of Southern American and Caribbean cooking. In the north, you’ll find more Southern fare like barbecue, fried snacks, and other comfort foods. Miami and the southern tip of Florida are definitely more influenced by the state’s Caribbean communities – Cuban, Afro-Caribbean, Dominican, etc are all very common styles and are served very authentic.

Florida and its chefs benefit from a very productive agriculture sector that is active near year-round. Florida grows an amazing variety of fruits and these are featured heavily in local dishes.

Expect to see lots of citrus, mango, papaya, and even strawberries. Key lime pie, a Florida creation, is another example of fruity Florida cooking at its finest.

Fish is also a staple of the Florida diet due in part to the ocean’s sheer presence. Grouper is the most common type of fish and is found on just about any menu. Shark, snapper, tarpon, and oysters are also common catches in Florida. Seafood is usually prepared fresh in the southern parts of the state – i.e. grilled or as ceviche  – while the northern part tends to fry it.

You will have many opportunities to sample the local food while on a road trip through Florida.

Restaurants and diners are, of course, ubiquitous throughout the state but do tend to be expensive. You can visit a local market for fresh fruit and fish and then cook it yourself or you can take the fish to a restaurant have them cook it, often for a discounted rate.

To save the most on dining, take advantage of the local food carts and taco trucks. These mobile kitchens are staples of good American cooking and are usually very affordable. I’ve had the best chicken, Mexican, barbecue, hell, the best everything at food carts.

Get your Buzz On

Unless you haven’t heard from the news already, shit gets weird in Florida, real quick. Florida has some of the craziest and wildest parties in the USA, and there seems to be no end to the ways you can cut loose either! If you can think of a way to have fun, Florida probably does it already.

Miami hosts the most amount of parties in Florida. Here, you can go to a local sports bar, dance at a Latin jazz bar, relax at a beachside cantina or attempt to get into a super ritzy nightclub.

Clubbing in Miami is very serious business. People invest a lot of time and money to make sure that they appear absolutely perfect in public while at the club. For this reason, going to a club in Miami requires a lot of effort.

If you want to go clubbing in Miami, you need to dress very appropriately – dresses, skirts, high heels, collars, pants, close-toed, etc – and conduct yourself properly.

You will have to stand in line for quite a while to get into the club; men, in particular, will have a hard time getting in. To maximize your chances of getting in a club in Miami, try to get on “the list” and avoid pissing off the bouncer.

Most of the younger crowds party in the college towns – Tallahassee and Gainesville – or at certain beach locations – Daytona Beach and South Beach.

If you’re on a spring road trip in Florida be very aware, ney terrified, of the Spring Break crowds. They will descend onto the beaches and cause a ruckus for a week straight.

Note that a few counties in North Florida are dry i.e. do not permit the consumption of alcohol. They are Lafayette , Liberty , and Washington . If you’re in one of these counties, you will not be able to buy or drink booze.

Being a Responsible Backpacker in Florida

Remember to be a respectful and responsible backpacker on your Florida road trip. Depart from the grounds at a decent hour and follow leave no trace principles.

Furthermore, don’t be like the Spring Breakers and trash peoples homes and beaches.

Reduce your plastic footprint: Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in a landfill or in the ocean.

I know it can be hard, but do your best to use the least amount of plastic water bottles that you can. Refill the ones that you do buy! Use a GRAYL GEOPRESS . Refill at your hostel/guest house! There are plenty of ways to reduce plastic!!!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Colleen Kinsey

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7 best road trips in Florida

Apr 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Florida is well-suited for road-tripping © Philip Lange / Shutterstock

There's no denying Florida's appeal. This narrow peninsula packs in an abundance of hedonistic pleasures, from white-sand beaches to fantasy-fueled amusement parks.

And with historical monuments, natural wonders and roadside attractions sprinkled liberally across the state, Florida is particularly well suited for road-tripping. Here's our pick of the best road trips in the Sunshine State. 

1. North Florida's backwaters and byways 

Best road trip for springs, manatees and mermaids Pensacola–Weeki Wachee; 510 miles; 5–7 days

Kick off your trip in Pensacola and delve into the city's past at Historic Pensacola Village . Then cruise towards the alluring white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast, meandering back roads and byways to discover northern Florida's hidden treasures along the way.

Experience crystal-clear springs, including the Spanish-moss-lined Wakulla Springs , where you can take a tour in a glass-bottomed boat, and Ichetucknee Springs , which you can enjoy from the relaxed comfort of an inner tube. See manatees (between November and March) from the viewing platforms at Blue Spring State Park , then round off your trip with a classic roadside attraction starring the performing "mermaids" of Weeki Wachee .

Planning tip:  Florida's springs are significantly colder than its oceans. Consider packing or renting a wetsuit, particularly during visits in the winter months.

2. The Florida Panhandle

Best road trip for a taste of Florida's western edge Perdido Key–Tallahassee; 254 miles; 3–4 days

The Florida Panhandle on the Gulf Coast is blessed with beach bliss and southern charm. Start your eastward journey near the Alabama border in Perdido Key , a barrier island with turquoise waters and expansive wetlands.

Eastward, make sure to hop on Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton County. Stops include Rosemary Beach, where  La Crema Tapas & Chocolate  serves up a decadent chocolate fondue; the Alys Beach Nature Trail , which has elevated boardwalks to navigate the 20-acre preserve of coastal forest; and Seaside , which is dotted with pastel-painted houses with picket fences. Fun fact: Seaside is where  The Truman Show  was filmed. End your trip with a visit to Tallahassee, the capital of Florida and home to the  Museum of Florida History .

3. Highway 1 

Best road trip for tracing the Atlantic Coast Amelia Island–Miami Beach; 475 miles; 6 days

Drive the length of Florida all the way down the coast, and you'll get a sampling of all the highlights of the Sunshine State. You'll find historic towns, family-friendly attractions, the Latin flavor of Miami and miles and miles of beaches right beside you, inviting you to stop as often as you want.

Start your trip on Amelia Island, a glorious barrier island with the moss-draped charm of the Deep South, and continue on down to see-and-be-seen  Miami Beach . Detours worth making include St Augustine , the oldest permanent European settlement in the US; the undeveloped, pristine beaches of  Canaveral National Seashore and the Space Coast  where, if you time it right, you can see a rocket shoot into space.

Planning tip: November through March is peak "snowbird season" in Florida, making driving along Highway 1 – and other major coastal routes – a bit more of a crawl as US holidaymakers travel south for some winter sunshine.

Want to linger in Miami for a few days?  We have the itinerary for you

4. North Florida

Best road trip for exploring the central heart of Florida Jacksonville–Ocala; 112 miles; 3–4 days

With nearly one million residents, Jacksonville is Florida's largest city (nearly double the population of Miami). After gawking at giraffes at Jacksonville Zoological Gardens  and being inspired at the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville , head southwest to Gainesville, the home of the University of Florida. Very much loaded with students when school is in session, the town is also home to the Florida Museum of Natural History and the stunningly blue Ginnie Springs  nearby.

Cap off your trip with a stop in Ocala, with outdoor adventures aplenty, including the woodsy, lake-loaded Ocala National Forest and, for gear heads, the Don Garlist Museum of Drag Racing , which houses nearly 100 race-tested vehicles.

5. Walt Disney World and beyond

Best road trip for the whole family Kennedy Space Center–Sanibel & Captiva Islands; 288 miles; 6–10 days

This trip links up most of Florida's best family-friendly attractions , including sprawling white-sand beaches and all the sights you can squeeze into your vacation and more.

Begin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center  to wonder at the science and ambition behind 20th- and 21st-century space exploration (and buy some astronaut ice cream, naturally). From there, hop on I-4 westbound toward Central Florida and its more imaginative delights. Let your inner child loose in the  Magic Kingdom  at Walt Disney World ®  but don't stop there; you'll find plenty more to entertain you in dizzying Orlando , including Universal Studios and  Harry P Leu Gardens , for when you crave a short respite from the frenetic pace.

Next, cross the state toward Tampa , turning south when you arrive near the coast. Be sure to check out the historic buildings and wrought-iron balconies of Ybor City and the lovely beaches in Sarasota  before winding up on the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

Can't get enough of Florida's theme parks? These are the best ones to visit

6. The Everglades 

Best road trip for seeing wildlife Homestead–Everglades City; 170 miles; 2–3 days

The enticing Everglades  make  South Florida truly unique. This ecological wonderland is the USA's largest subtropical wilderness, flush with endangered and rare species, including its star attraction, the alligator – and there are lots of them. It's not just a wetland, swamp, prairie or grassland – it's all of the above, twisted into a series of soft horizons, long vistas and sunsets that stretch across your entire field of vision.

From the town of Homestead , head for the park's southeastern entrance and get ready to immerse yourself in nature. Be sure to plan pitstops to  kayak in Flamingo , take a tram tour in Shark Valley and search for Bigfoot in Ochopee  before heading on to Everglades City to uncover the region's history at the volunteer-run  Museum of the Everglades .

Detour:  Work in a bonus national park by visiting Biscayne National Park , a boater's paradise 20 minutes east of Homestead.

Add  these experiences  to your Everglades itinerary

7. Overseas Highway to Key West 

Best road trip for island hopping John Pennekamp State Park–Key West; 102 miles; 3–5 days

Short of hopping on a plane, there's no better way to enjoy such an utter feeling of escape from the mainland than driving through the Florida Keys . The motto here seems to be "do whatever the hell you want." 

Pull off the highway for biker bars, seafood grills and blissful beaches wherever and whenever the crazy spirit of these islands moves you. Highlights on this 102-mile route include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , the USA's first underwater park; historic Indian Key and forested  Lignumvitae Key ; and the marvel of engineering that is the overwater Seven Mile Bridge. 

Planning tip:  Embark on your Overseas Highway adventure as early in the day as possible, as some stretches tend to be congested after 11am, particularly on weekends.

Keep planning your trip to Florida:

Looking for more great experiences? Here are our top picks in Florida Have a smooth trip with these things to know before you go Check out our budget-friendly tips before you book Get in some towel time at  our favorite beaches in Florida

This article was first published Nov 19, 2020 and updated Apr 10, 2024.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

15 Best Florida Road Trips And Scenic Drives

May 15, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

Planning the best Florida road trip can be a daunting task, even if you’re a native. Florida is one of the few states where you could drive eight hours and still be in the same state!

Millions of tourists make Florida a hot destination because of the variety of activities. There are just so many things to do in Florida !

Roller-coaster enthusiasts will love the theme parks. Birders and nature junkies will love the best Florida hiking trails . Overworked vacationers will love the beaches in Florida .

Whether you’re a beach bunny, have an adventurous spirit, or want some rest and relaxation, there is something for everyone in Florida.

With that being said, because the state is so large, it’s hard to know where to go first! There’s so much ground to cover. Luckily, we’re here to help.

We’ve mapped out our best Florida road trip ideas to make your vacation memorable!

We’ll take you through the top destinations in the state so you won’t have any problem finding fun and interesting things to do in the Sunshine State.

Let’s go on the best road trip around Florida!

Did You Find This Post Helpful?

If so, we would love to keep in touch! We enjoy seeing photos and comments about your experiences in Florida! You can follow us on Instagram and we will repost your photos on our feed and comment too! Just tag us at @floridatrippers and hashtag #floridatrippers. We can’t wait to see your travels!

Miami to Key West

• Downtown Miami
• Coral Castle
• Everglades National Park
• Dry Tortugas National Park
• Seven Mile Bridge

The journey from Miami to Key West is one of the most scenic drives in Florida! The drive is lined with greens and blues from the beaches and palm trees.

This is a great Florida road trip with kids!

It will take you through some of the most beautiful attractions the Sunshine State has to offer. It has something for everyone, no matter your interests. It’s easy to pick and choose to tailor the perfect Florida itinerary for you!

Starting in the iconic city of Miami , you’ll breathe in the South Florida culture before heading to some scenic attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.

Paddlers especially will want to make a stop at some of the best kayaking trails in Florida in the Everglades.

You can even see a real castle! Look out for Coral Castle, made completely of stone. As you head further south, you’ll start to breathe in the salty air of the Atlantic as you visit coral reefs and beaches.

When you finally land in Key West, you’ll have access to some of the most beautiful Florida beaches as well as some incredible historical sites. Don’t forget to have a piece of Key lime pie while you’re there!

There really are so many things to do in Key West !

Central Florida Road Trip

• Circle B Bar Reserve
• Celebration
• Rock Springs/Kelly Park

The drive from Tampa to Cocoa Beach will take you directly across the state, allowing you to see the best of Central Florida !

You get nature, theme parks, and even a quaint town owned by Disney! These are some of the best places to stop in Florida!

Starting in Tampa allows you to soak up the emerging city’s culture, restaurants , and nightlife before moving on to more scenic pursuits.

As you approach Lakeland , you’ll be able to walk through the Circle B Bar Reserve and see a lot of wildlife.

Along the drive, you can stop by Bok Tower, a Carillion tower that rings as it’s played like an instrument before you approach Disney World or Universal. Spend a couple of days at the parks while staying at a cozy Airbnb!

Before you approach Cocoa Beach, make a stop at Rock Springs/Kelly Park where you can take a dip or even tube down one of Florida’s prettiest springs near Orlando .

When you make it to your destination of Cocoa Beach, you’ll enjoy the shorelines of one of the best family beaches in Florida !

If you are planning a road trip to Florida, you need to check out these highlights!

Florida East Coast

• Amelia Island
• St. Augustine
• Daytona Beach
• Kennedy Space Center
• McKee Botanical Gardens

Driving the East Coast is the Florida equivalent of driving the Pacific Coast Highway. Start with the best things to do in Amelia Island before moving down to Miami.

You’ll experience a smorgasbord of different Florida attractions!

Amelia Island might just be the prettiest island in Florida , but don’t spend too long there!

St. Augustine just to the south has incredible historic sites and castles. It is also the oldest city in the United States.

If you plan your best Florida road trip just right, you can attend one of the many festivals held in Daytona Beach like Biketoberfest.

After you’ve enjoyed the beach, head down to Merritt Island to visit the Kennedy Space Center!

If you stop in Vero Beach , you must pay a visit to the McKee Botanical Gardens which showcases the best of Florida flora.

Then as you arrive in Miami, relax on South Beach, one of the best beaches in Miami , and soak up the sun as a reward for your journey!

This is a great Florida East Coast road trip the whole family will love!

Haunted Florida Road Trip

• Spanish Military Hospital Museum
• St. Augustine Old Jail
• Cassadaga Hotel
• Tampa Theatre

This road trip is perfect to welcome fall in Florida which is when things start to get spooky! There are over 570 documented haunted sites in Florida.

This Florida road trip for adults and kids alike starts off in Tampa , where the old historic theaters are haunted! Try the Tampa Theatre downtown or the Capitol Theatre in Clearwater.

Ybor City also offers walking ghost tours that take you through the historic buildings.

From there, head to Orlando and visit Lake Eola. It is said a small brown terrier runs along the lake’s east shore before vanishing into thin air.

Afterward, Cassadaga is waiting for you! This is one of the most haunted places in Florida !

A spooky forgotten town full of psychics, check out the Helen Cassadaga Cemetery or the Cassadaga Hotel.

Then head to Daytona Beach to tour the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse! One of the best lighthouses in Florida , it is also haunted!

Finally, head to St. Augustine, the motherlode of haunted cities in Florida.

There are so many St. Augustine ghost tours to take that will leave you feeling spooky like the Old Jail and the Spanish Military Hospital Museum.

Florida Springs Road Trip

• Ginnie Springs
• Devil’s Den
• Rainbow Springs
• Ichetucknee Springs

A road trip to Florida’s natural springs can be perfect for summer or fall! They are the most scenic places in Florida!

The 72-degree waters will cool you down during the hottest summer day. During the winter, manatees migrate to the springs to keep warm.

Start your tour in Weeki Wachee to watch mermaids swim in the spring waters before heading north on US 19 to Crystal River, a spring near Tampa . If you time it right, you can attend their Manatee Festival!

Take US-41 to get to Rainbow Springs State Park , which actually has six waterfalls! Then hop back on US-41 to head north to Devil’s Den, a diver’s haven!

Get back on, you guessed it, US-41, and keep going north and you’ll hit three springs grouped very close together! Take your pick between Gilchrist Blue Springs , Ginnie Springs , or Ichetucknee Springs . Or visit them all!

End your journey by driving north for just another hour and you’ll reach Madison Blue Springs, where you can swim and relax as your final reward!

If you are planning a road trip in Florida, you definitely need to check out some springs!

Tampa to Naples Roadtrip

• Ca D’Zan
• Florida Domes
• Edison & Ford Winter Estates
• Ringling Museum

For a relatively short day trip, make the drive from Tampa to Naples! Along the way, you’ll hit some major Gulf Coast cities, each with its own architectural gems.

This is the best Florida West Coast road trip!

In Tampa, you can take advantage of some of the best museums in Florida , Tampa restaurants , and even the lovely Curtis Hixon Park. If you decide to spend an evening there, there’s even a speakeasy !

When you head south to Sarasota , a treasure trove of attractions awaits you! Skip the traditional beaches and head out to Beer Can Island , a truly secluded spot.

Or check out architectural masterpieces like the Ringling Museum and the Ca D’Zan!

Next up in Fort Myers , you can tour the Edison and Ford Winter Estates! Yes, the Thomas Edison of the lightbulb and the Henry Ford of Ford Motors. You can see their homes, their vintage Ford vehicles, and even their laboratory!

As you pass through Cape Coral , you’ll get to drive through Matlacha, a charming village. The homes are painted with bright neon and pastel colors. It actually feels more like Key West than Cape Coral!

When you land in Naples , you can take advantage of the fabulous Naples beaches , especially on Marco Island .

If you charter a boat, you can make your way to the Florida Domes, the sunken remains of a millionaire’s former home, now a haven for Florida wildlife.

Anyone interested in history will agree this is one of the best driving trips in Florida!

Everglades Road Trip

• Anhinga Trail
• Nine Mile Pond
• Mahogany Hammock Trail
• Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook

The Everglades National Park is a gigantic place to explore. It’s hard to know where to start! Luckily, this road trip through the park will allow you to experience a little bit of everything the park has to offer.

Enter the park from the southernmost entrance off the Ingraham Highway. Here you’ll start your journey at the Coe Visitor Center.

As you start driving, right off the bat, you’ll have your pick between the Anhinga Trail or the Gumbo Limbo Trail, some of the best hikes in Florida.

The road continues through the Pinelands and into the Dwarf Cypress Forest whose leaves actually change during fall in Florida!

After passing Rock Reef Pass, stop at Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook. You’ll have the best views of the enormous sawgrass prairies from the elevated platform.

After another 20 miles, you can see the nation’s largest mahogany tree on Mahogany Hammock Trail!

Unfortunately, it doesn’t make for a great photo op. The tree is 90 feet tall and the shorter trees shroud the mahogany’s height.

Keep on to Nine Mile Pond for canoeing and kayaking!

If you’re driving towards the end of March to early April, stop at Mrazek Pond. During this time, and only this time, it becomes one of the best birding spots in the country.

After passing several optional hiking trails, you’ll arrive at the Flamingo Visitor Center, your final destination. Here, you can book an airboat tour to see the nooks and crannies of the park not visible from the road.

It is clear the Everglades is one of the top places to go on a road trip in Florida!

Waterfall Road Trip

• Falling Waters State Park
• Big Shoals State Park
• Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park

There are amazing waterfalls in Florida ! On this Florida road trip, you’ll discover the best sound is a waterfall crashing down in front of you!

Start in Chipley in the Panhandle with a bang. Falling Waters State Park is home to the largest of Florida’s waterfalls at 73 feet high!

From there, head to Bristol to get to Torreya State Park. Consider skipping this waterfall if you’re not a strong hiker.

Afterward, the following three waterfalls are thankfully close together. First, see the “Disappearing” Waterfall at Camp Branch Conservation Area.

Then head to Big Shoals State Park, which also offers river rafting! Just to the south is Falling Creek Falls.

As you head south to Gainesville , you’ll reach Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park. Here the waterfall was created by a series of sinkholes. You can even stand inside the sinkhole right next to the waterfall!

Finally, you’ll end your journey with a refreshing reward at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon just outside of Ocala .

Here, you’ll get not one, but six waterfalls! You can also enjoy swimming, tubing, kayaking, snorkeling, and more.

UFO Sighting Tour

• Gulf Breeze
• Fort Walton Beach
• Panama City
• Unidentified Flying Objects?

Did you know that next to California, Florida has the most UFO sightings of any other state? On average over 30 sightings are reported each month in Florida!

If you’re skeptical about whether or not life is out there, it doesn’t matter. This Florida road trip will take you through the best places in the panhandle.

Start in Panama City , where two bright orbs were seen zig-zagging over Tyndall Air Force Base. As you head west, ride the shoreline, as this has been a popular sighting place.

As you approach Fort Walton Beach, look out for a white diamond-shaped craft with a vapor trail as well as saucer disks.

Even if you don’t see anything, you’ll have an enjoyable night walking the beach and looking at the stars through binoculars.

You’ll eventually land in Pensacola where the most sightings have been recorded. Head to the Gulf Breeze neighborhood especially! Keep your eyes peeled!

North Florida Road Trip

• Wakulla Springs State Park
• Castillo de San Marcos
• Big Talbot Island State Park

Begin your journey across the top of the state in the panhandle at Falling Waters State Park, the tallest natural waterfall in Florida!

Then head to Marianna, the only open-air-filled caves in Florida. Outside of the Florida Caverns, you can also hike, bike, or camp on the Chipola River.

Then you’ll head to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, beautiful and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also one of the best springs for camping in Florida .

Next, get a taste of the prehistoric as you travel to Devil’s Den . A natural spring, Devil’s Den is actually a karst window, which means it’s a huge open cave over a river. Divers will love descending the depths!

Next, it’s time for St. Augustine. History buffs will love exploring the oldest city in the United States! Stop at the Castillo de San Marcos to see a real Florida castle!

You’ll end your North Florida Road Trip at Big Talbot Island, one of the best things to do in Jacksonville ! The beaches here are covered with driftwood and dried tree branches, creating the illustrious Boneyard Beach!

Florida Castles Road Trip

• Solomon’s Castle

Did you know that there are real castles in Florida ? Europe has nothing on the Sunshine State!

This Florida road trip takes you from St. Augustine all the way down to the West Palm Beach area to see the best castles in Florida!

When you start in St. Augustine, you’re practically in the castle capital of the state! Here you have Castle Warden which eventually was turned into the first Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

You also can see Villa Zorayada which is a replica of the Alhambra Palace. Don’t forget the historic Castillo de San Marcos, once a Spanish fortress of war. Castle Otttis is also here, but because it’s privately owned, tours are rarely available.

From there, head to St. Pete to see the Don Cesar. Built originally to be a “pink castle,” today it functions as a high-end resort and spa ! You can even take ghost tours of the grounds.

Next up is Solomon’s Castle. The home and art studio of Howard Solomon, the castle is made entirely of aluminum. You can even have lunch at the Boat on the Moat!

Finally, you’ll head down to the mysterious Coral Castle. Made of 1,000 tons of coral rock, the structures have been arranged into elaborate gardens complete with bougainvillea.

Surfing Road Trip

• St. Augustine Beach
• Cocoa Beach
• Boynton Beach

Similar to the East Coast Road Trip, this Florida road trip will take you along the Atlantic coast. This is where all the best waves are!

So if you’re a surfer, load up the car for these can’t-miss surfing spot s in Florida !

Start north at Jacksonville Beach before hitting St. Augustine. From there you can hit Flagler Beach before heading to Daytona Beach.

If you visit Daytona on Christmas Eve, you can even see Santa surfing! This is a great winter in Florida activity.

Then you can hit the waves at New Smyrna Beach before heading down to Cocoa Beach. Don’t forget the Sebastian Inlet, just to the south of Melbourne.

The last leg of your trip will take you to the beautiful beaches of Jupiter, where you can take a break to see the limestone formations!

From there, hit West Palm Beach before concluding your trip to Boynton Beach.

Scenic Hiking Road Trip

• Blowing Rocks
• Big Talbot Island
• Ocala National Forest

This Florida road trip from Jacksonville to Jupiter is designed to take you on some of the most unique hiking trails the state has to offer. You won’t see sights like these anywhere else.

First, start at Big Talbot Island in Jacksonville, where the Black Rock Trail will take you to the beach. You’ll see dried, sun-bleached trees creating Boneyard Beach!

Next in Gainesville, you’ll find the Prairie Paynes Loop Trail. Here bison and wild horses roam free. Hop down to Dade City to attempt the four-day, 39-mile Citrus Hiking Trail!

Head down to Bok Tower outside of Lakeland next. The tower is actually a Carillon bell that can be played like an instrument!

You’ll finish your tour at Blowing Rocks in Jupiter, where waves crash up against limestone as you walk along the beach.

Overall, this is one of the best road trips in Florida for nature lovers!

Brewery Road Trip

• Cigar City Brewing
• 7venth Sun Brewing Company
• Hourglass Brewing
• Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co.

Craft beer is having a revival, not only in Florida but across the country! To taste the best that local breweries have to offer, take the Brewery Road Trip!

Start in the Tampa Bay area where you can hit up the highest-rated brewery in Florida, Cigar City Brewing. There are plenty of other breweries in Tampa to check out too.

Likewise, you can visit Cycle Brewing in St. Pete and 7venth Sun Brewing Company in Dunedin.

Next, head to some Orlando breweries ! Grab a Grove IPA or Side Chick Blonde at Deadly Sins Brewing. Try out Hourglass Brewing or Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co. as well!

Finally, head to Jacksonville and grab a pint at Green Room Brewing. You can even bring your own food or order from a binder of restaurants that deliver right to the bar!

This is one of the best weekend road trips in Florida for adults!

Florida Keys State Park Road Trip

• Bahia Honda State Park
• Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
• Curry Hammock State Park
• Oleta River State Park

There are beautiful state parks in Florida , rivaling those across the country.

This South Florida road trip will take you from Jupiter all the way to the end of the Florida Keys to enjoy some tropical state parks!

Start to the north of Jupiter at Jonathan Dickinson State Park to walk through pine scrub flatwoods and mangrove forests.

Then head to Fort Lauderdale to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to see native Florida wildlife like butterflies, turtles, and of course, alligators .

Right on Biscayne Bay in North Miami Beach, you’ll head to Oleta River State Park next. Here you can find the greatest concentration of Australian pine trees!

Now you’ll be crossing the bridge to the Keys and traveling west. In Key Largo, stop at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You’ll love snorkeling among the reefs and seeing the tropical fish!

Next up at the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park , you can see fossils frozen in time in the Key Largo limestone.

Then head to Curry Hammock State Park, housing one of the best beaches for shelling .

Finally, at scenic Bahia Honda State Park , you can walk up to the gorgeous, dilapidated bridge.

Since you’re at the end of your journey, sit and relax on the beach and stay for one of the most beautiful sunsets in the state.

Hopefully, this Florida road trip planner helped you plan an epic vacation!

Ultimate Florida Road Trip Itinerary

With year-round sunshine, thousands of miles of stunning coast and the unique landscapes of the Everglades and the Keys, a visit to Florida can take you to a whole host of unforgettable locations. So why not join them together on a road trip to create a week-long adventure that you'll remember for a lifetime?

This 7-day road trip around Florida covers 800 miles and has a drive time of 32 hours. It takes you to the Orlando theme parks and then carries on around the state to Miami, Key West, the Everglades, Fort Myers, Tampa, Destin and Tallahassee.

Florida has so much on offer that at nearly every stop you'll have the chance to combine your choice of leisure, cultural and outdoor activities. And of course, there's the chance to visit at least one of Orlando's world-famous theme parks too.

The ultimate road trip itinerary in Florida

What is the ultimate florida road trip itinerary.

Our ultimate Florida road trip itinerary starts off in Jacksonville in the northeastern corner of Florida. After a trip inland to Orlando, where you can visit your theme park of choice, it follows the Atlantic coastline all the way to Key West, the southernmost point of the contiguous United States.

Turning north again, the route crosses the tip of Florida so you can spend some time exploring the Everglades before starting to head back toward Jacksonville around the Gulf of Mexico.

After visiting Fort Myers, Tampa and Destin the road will take you to Pensacola, close to the Alabama border, before heading east to complete the route back where you started in Jacksonville.

On this 1,800 mile route you'll spend an average of 4 hours 30 minutes on the road each day, although as you'd expect with a road trip there will be some longer and shorter drives along the way.

That gives plenty of time to stop and enjoy the sparkling sea views, white sand beaches, and stunning waterways that Florida is so famous for.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your ultimate road trip around Florida, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Day 1: Driving from Jacksonville to Orlando

The first day of your ultimate Florida road trip keeps the drive time to just 2 hours 30 minutes. Whether you want to hit the road early to see all the sights along the way, or have a more leisurely start after brunch in the sunshine, this 145-mile drive is the ideal start to any itinerary.

Road trip route from Jacksonville to Orlando

To get your road trip started, head to I-95 from your starting point in Jacksonville and follow it south out of the city. Turn off towards St Augustine to make your first stop at this wonderful coastal city.

From here you can return directly to the interstate via US-1. Alternatively, if you'd like to immerse yourself in ocean views for a little longer, you can follow Route A1A as far as Daytona Beach.

This means taking the drive at a slower pace so it will add a little time to your journey, especially if you stop to dip your toes in the Atlantic.

Whichever route you take, merge onto I-4 which begins inland from Daytona Beach. This takes you past Lake Monroe and on to Orlando.

Things to explore on the way to Orlando

The first Spanish settlement in what's now St Augustine was founded all the way back in 1565, and today the city is packed full of historic and cultural gems. Walking through the cobbled streets will be a real contrast to Jacksonville and Orlando, the other cities you'll spend time in on the first day of the trip.

Looking out over Matanzas Bay is the fortress of Castillo de San Marcos which dates from the time that Florida belonged to Spain. You can also visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park to find out more about the city's history.

You can also enjoy time on the beautiful beaches in St Augustine and the surrounding area, with plenty of watersports on offer, before heading south to continue your trip.

Signs in the city announce that Daytona Beach is the “World's Most Famous Beach” so you can't visit without spending some time by the water. As well as relaxing on the golden sands you can paddleboard, sail, jet ski and dive, or explore the atmospheric waterways in a kayak or canoe.

The city is also famous for its motorsports, and even if the timing of your trip means you don't get the chance to see some action at Daytona International Speedway fans should head to the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. If you're more interested in vintage vehicles there's the Living Legends of Autoracing museum too.

Where to stay in Orlando: get your theme park fix

Orlando is world famous for its theme parks – take your pick from Disney's Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Epcot, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios Florida, and many more.

If you're looking for something different, go boating on Lake Eola or check out the evening light show. Or get your culture fix at Orlando Fine Arts Museum followed by a performance at Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

With the restaurants and bars of downtown Orlando just a couple of minutes' walk away, booking in a bright and spacious room at Aloft Orlando Downtown means you're in the heart of the action. It's also right on the route so it's the perfect base for an overnight stop in the city.

Relax by the outdoor pool before heading out to explore the city - you can hop straight back on to I-4 for a smooth journey out to Walt Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando Resort, which are both within 20 minutes' drive.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Day 2: Driving from Orlando to Miami

You'll spend longer on the road on the second day of your Florida road trip on this beautiful coastal drive from Orlando to Miami .

It's 255 miles from Orlando to Miami, which will take around 5 hours 30 minutes to drive, so we'd recommend making an early start if you want to spend time in Juno Beach, Boca Raton or Fort Lauderdale as well as visiting the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral.

Road trip route from Orlando to Miami

Head east out of Orlando until you meet FL-538 near the airport. This road will take you right out to the coast before crossing the Indian River and becoming Route A1A when you arrive on Cape Canaveral. Detour north to visit the Kennedy Space Center, then keep an eye out for space launches as you make your way along the highway.

After Pineda Beach Park, turn back towards the mainland again and continue south on Route 1 through Palm Bay, Vero Beach and Port Salerno before joining back up with the interstate at Palm Beach. All that's left for the day is to follow it to downtown Miami.

Things to explore on the way to Miami

The Kennedy Space Center is the most famous attraction at Cape Canaveral. You can learn about all things space at the immersive visitor center and take a turn in one of the simulators.

Cape Canaveral isn't just about the space center though – take some time to explore Canaveral National Seashore where you can hike or canoe through the pristine coastal environment of this barrier island.

Where to stay in Miami: get ready to party the night away

Spend the night in Miami to enjoy the city's legendary nightlife – whether you're in the mood for cocktails by the waterfront or one of the city's stylish nightclubs you'll find something to suit every taste.

As a bonus you can start the next day slowly on one of the city's stunning beaches before checking out Miami's legendary shopping scene.

If you prefer your entertainment a little more low key head to Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts to watch international stars of ballet, opera and live music.

Rooms at Mint House Miami Downtown are bright and modern so you can relax into the stylish Miami vibe as soon as you've checked in. The stunning pool area is the perfect place to relax after a busy day on the road.

Your booking at this Aparthotel will include kitchen facilities, which is ideal if you enjoy a break from dawn-to-dusk restaurant food on your travels.

Larger apartments are also available, making this a great choice if you're travelling in a group. It's also in walking distance of several restaurants if you'd rather dine out.

The hotel isn't far from the route – just a few blocks off I-95 - and has private parking for extra convenience. Plus, it's within walking distance to HistoryMiami and Miami Art Museum, with other city attractions just a short drive away.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Orlando to Miami

Day 3: Driving from Miami to Key West

The drive from Miami to Key West is another stunner . Once you've left the city the drive through the Florida Keys is a memorable experience in its own right as the highway takes you across the ocean via a series of bridges and tunnels which connect the islands that make up the Keys.

In normal traffic it will take around 3 hours 30 minutes to drive from Miami to Key West, the furthest of the islands. This 170-mile drive takes you through Homestead and then across to the Keys where you'll see Key Largo, Marathon and Big Pine Key on the way to Key West.

Some travellers prefer to skip the drive through the Florida Keys and head direct to Marco Island instead. From here, you can park up and take the ferry through the sparkling blue ocean all the way to Key West. Read our guide on how to take the ferry to Key West .

That way you can sit back and relax once you reach Key West without having to worry about parking or finding an affordable place to stay. You'll avoid the traffic driving south from Miami too, which can be heavy at weekends and holidays.

Road trip route from Miami to Key West

Head through the suburbs of Westchester and Kendall to leave Miami, joining up with the Ronald Regan Turnpike to carry on to Florida City. From here, Route 1 will take you across Manatee Bay and Blackwater Sound to begin your drive through the Florida Keys.

This is one of the simplest parts of the road trip to navigate, as there's only one main road between the islands. Sit back and enjoy the ocean view as you follow Route 1 past John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Plantation Key and Islamorada on your way to Key West.

Things to explore on the way to Key West

One of the most popular places to stop along the way is Key Largo. Head out to sea on a fishing trip – all the equipment you need will be provided on board, as well as plenty of advice for beginners. Scuba divers will find a number of sites to explore too.

Or just relax on another beautiful beach – there are plenty to choose from.

Where to stay in Key West: relax in subtropical style

As well as enjoying the subtropical weather and watching the sunset over the ocean there's also plenty to see and do in Key West. Stop at President Truman's Little White House or get a feel for Key West's past with a tour of the golden era Audubon House and Gardens.

Potter around independent galleries to discover local artists and take in the colorful Historic Seaport district.

The beautiful waterfront location of Hyatt Residence Club Key West, Sunset Harbor means you can really immerse yourself in the Key West atmosphere. Many of the bright and spacious rooms have balconies and seating and as well as the outdoor pool and hot tub there's a spa center on site if you're ready for some relaxation.

Many of Key West's attractions are close to this resort including the Little White House and Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. As you would expect, there are beaches within a short walk too.

Accommodation prices in Key West sit at the higher end of the scale so look into staying here mid-week to secure more affordable rates.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Miami to Key West

Day 4: Driving from Key West to Fort Myers

The next day of your road trip covers 300 miles, passing Homestead and Sweetwater before crossing from the eastern side of Florida to the west on this 5 hour 30 minute journey.

Road trip route from Key West to Fort Myers

Make your way back along the Keys and through Florida City onto the Ronald Regan Turnpike, which you'll follow through Sweetwater to join up with I-75.

The interstate takes you all the way to Fort Myers but along the way you can detour to visit the iconic Everglades. As you'll see if you keep reading there are several entrances to this vast national park so just pick the one which works best for your schedule.

Things to explore on the way to Fort Myers

The unique landscape of the Everglades, with endless creeks and channels, is home to diverse wildlife including alligators, wetland birds, manatees, and the Florida Panther.

You can drive through some sections of the Everglades but to really appreciate the landscape it's best to head out across the water – iconic airboat rides are a popular choice, or take a kayak tour to explore at a slower pace.

There are a number of entrances to this huge wetland national park – heading west from Tamiami on US-41 or detouring to Everglades City on the Florida Gulf are two of the most popular. Check ahead for opening times and facilities as hurricane damage has affected visitor centres.

Where to stay in Fort Myers: enjoy a Gulf of Mexico sundowner

As with many of the other stops on this route, you can hit the beach in Fort Myers or take a boat tour to follow one of the pods of dolphins that can be found just off the coast here. There's also the chance to explore the winter estates of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, who loved to spend time in sunny Fort Myers.

Luminary Hotel & Co. is a beautiful hotel with chic interiors located right on the Caloosahatchee River. It's only a short drive away from the Fishermen's Village and also has easy access to Sanibel Island with the picturesque Sanibel Lighthouse only a short drive away.

Edison & Fort Winter Estates as well as IMAG History and Science Center are both located a short drive away from the hotel, so it's the perfect base if you plan on sightseeing.

The hotel also has free bikes and a fitness center if you want to stick to your fitness regime during your stay - then head to the fantastic restaurant and stylish bar to round off your day.

Day 5: Driving from Fort Myers to Tampa

After a couple of days of longer drives you have a more relaxed section of the trip ahead of you on day 2. It's only a 2 hour 10 minute stretch between Fort Myers and Tampa, with the chance to spend time exploring Myakka River State Park, Sarasota or Anna Maria Island as you travel this 130-mile route.

Road trip route from Fort Myers to Tampa

Heading north out of Fort Myers the interstate crosses the Peace River near Solana then runs around the edge of Myakka River State Park before passing Sarasota.

After crossing the Manatee River the interstate divides, and to carry on towards Tampa you'll take I-275 through Terra Ceia Preserve State Park. then follow the 4-mile-long Sunshine Skyway Bay across the sparkling water of Tampa Bay. The bridge is so long that there are fishing piers along the way - bring your rods if you're keen!

Back on dry land, the interstate takes you through St Petersburg and then over the Howard Franklin Bridge to reach your day 5 destination, Tampa.

Things to explore on the way to Tampa

Myakka River is a scenic, but sometimes overlooked gem in Florida. Since this drive is on the shorter side, you can take a lengthy break here and enjoy the great outdoors for the day. From arching palm trees to beautiful oak trees lining up the banks of the stream, you will find some great scenery here.

Myakka River is Florida's first ever designated scenic and wild river, and it will provide you with the opportunities to boat (depending on the water levels), fish, kayak and canoe during your visit. If you want to stay dry, you can opt for hiking or hop on your bike to explore.

Where to stay in Tampa: enjoy the ocean views from Clearwater Beach

As its name suggests, Clearwater Beach has a choice of stunning sands where you can sit back and relax for a few hours to enjoy the sunshine. Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium to learn about their conservation efforts, or head to Florida Botanical Gardens for a stroll in the sunshine.

It's a great starting point to visit the unspoilt beaches of Caladesi Island State Park. There are no roads in the state park so getting there from Clearwater Beach is part of the adventure. It's around an hour's walk, but check tide times before setting out.

The outdoor bar and terrace at Courtyard by Marriott Clearwater Beach are perfect to watch the sun go down. Rooms here are spacious and extremely comfortable, and many have a view across the water so it will be the first thing you see when you wake up again too.

As a bonus, the hotel is close to the beach and has private parking too.

Day 6: Driving from Tampa to Destin

In contrast to the previous day, your onward drive from Tampa to Destin is the longest on your Florida road trip. Coming in at a mammoth 7 hours and 15 minutes, this 400-mile drive will take you right across the Panhandle.

It's possible to stick to the interstate to cut down the drive time a little, but seeing as this is your last day of ocean we'd recommend following the coast road past East Point, Mexico Beach and Panama City.

Road trip route from Tampa to Destin

Leave Tampa on FL-589 through Citrus Park and Odessa, then continue along the same road as far as the beautiful town of Crystal River. From here, turn onto US-98 which sits a few miles inland but runs parallel to the coast all the way past Big Bend and Apalachee Bay before finally greeting you with ocean views at Alligator Point.

The highway then takes you all the way into Destin, with mile after mile of stunning white sand and dazzling blue sea to enjoy through the car window before you cross over Panama City's East and North Bays and cross Point Washington State Forest on the way to your destination.

Things to explore on the way to Destin

Crystal River calls itself the Manatee Capital of the World, since it's where these gentle giants come in huge numbers to shelter in the warm spring waters over winter. You can take a kayak or snorkelling trip to see them up close - the waterways and shore make this a stunning place to stop.

You can also explore Florida's history at Crystal Rivers Archaeological State Park, set around Native American ceremonial mounds which date back over a millennium, or visit the ruins of Yulee Sugar Mill which until the civil War was a huge plantation.

If you're feeling active, leave the car behind and explore Withlacoochee State Trail which winds 46 miles through beautiful coastal landscapes.

As you continue on around the coast you'll see a different side of Florida at the beautiful waterfront town of Apalachicola. After taking a stroll past the charming timber buildings, enjoy a delicious meal of fresh seafood or maybe try your hand at catching something for yourself.

Where to stay in Destin: enjoy the country's best beaches

The white sand beaches along this stretch of the coastline are said to be among the best in the United States and you'll come home from Destin with a reel of stunning photos.

You can also enjoy watersports at Destin Harbor, or head to Henderson Beach State Park to spend some time in nature.

Destin is a lively destination so you'll find plenty of places to enjoy a cocktail in the evening too.

Some of the spacious and contemporary rooms at Hotel Effie Sandestin have a view out across the bay , but even if you're not lucky enough to book one of them you can still look out over the ocean from the rooftop pool and lounge.

There's a private beach to enjoy too, or borrow a bike for free to explore the coast around Destin on 2 wheels. If you're in need of a pick-me-up at this stage in your road trip, why not book a relaxing treatment in the spa or play a round of golf on your choice of the many local courses?

Day 7: Driving from Destin to Jacksonville

The final day of your road trip takes you from the far west of Florida to the far east - in fact it's pretty much the longest west to east journey you can make in the state.

It will take you 6 hours to drive from Destin to Jacksonville, where you'll complete your road trip. First you'll swing even further west toward Pensacola, before hitting the interstate which you'll follow for most of the 400-mile drive.

You can still squeeze in a little more adventure though, with Florida's state capital Tallahassee plus laid back Lake City both waiting to be explored.

Road trip route from Destin to Jacksonville

From Destin head back onto US-98, which carries on along the Gulf Coast all the way to Pensacola - you can enjoy some amazing views of Santa Rosa Sound as you drive.

After crossing Pensacola Bay and making your way through the city you'll be able to connect with I-10 which takes you all the way back to Jacksonville. It might feel tempting to just push on through this final stretch of the journey but take the time to stop and explore Tallahassee and Lake City along the way to get a feel for inland Florida after so much time on the coast.

Things to explore on the way to Jacksonville

Florida's state capital, Tallahassee, is right on the route. Visit one of its antebellum mansions then check out the Museum of Florida History nearby.

Tallahassee Automobile Museum also has a vast collection of vintage vehicles which have been lovingly cared for - it's the perfect place to stop and picture road trips of the past as you near the end of your incredible journey.

If you have time for one final stop you might like to hop off the interstate at Lake City to play a final round of golf or spend time on the water. The springs here sit at a pleasant 72 degrees Fahrenheit all year round so if you're travelling in winter and find the ocean a little chilly, this is a great alternative.

Where to stay in Jacksonville: round off your road trip with some relaxation

Make a last beach trip to round off your trip once you arrive back in Jacksonville – head to the edge of the city and there's a long stretch of gorgeous sand which runs from Atlantic and Neptune Beaches until you reach Jacksonville Beach itself.

If you need somewhere to stay before heading home, the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront is a great pick. It has views out across the river and spacious rooms as well as a rooftop pool. The hotel also offers a shuttle service around Jacksonville which means you can leave the car behind after all that driving.

There are 3 restaurants to choose from on-site, including a great seafood restaurant, so sit back and relive the memories of your ultimate Florida road trip.

Things to see on the ultimate road trip in Florida

It will come as no surprise to learn that your road trip around Florida will be packed full of golden sand and blue sea. That's just the icing on the cake though as Florida is packed full of other attractions waiting to be explored.

• Disney World - Watch a live show or enjoy the rides at Disney World's four Florida theme parks.
• Universal Orlando Resort - Immerse yourself in your favorite movies at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Universal's Volcano Bay Water Theme Park.
• The National Navy SEAL Museum - Learn about the elite US Navy Seals including their training and the battles they've fought.
• Boca Raton - Play a round of golf then head to the sea turtle sanctuary to find out about the conservation efforts taking place around the Florida coast.
• Fort Lauderdale - Explore the canals of this beachfront city or take a walk along the Strip which runs along the ocean
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - Take a scuba diving trip to visit the country's only living coral reef. You can explore it on an open-bottom boat trip if you're not a diver.
• Cape Coral - Lose yourself among the many miles of canals in “Florida's Venice”.
• Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge - Seek out some elusive American crocodile when you follow the trails through this wetland refuge on foot or along the 4-mile long Wildlife Drive.
• Ybor City - Go on a ghost hunt in this historic part of Tampa, rumoured to be among America's most haunted!
• Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve - Explore this less-developed part of the Florida coast by kayak or on a wildlife viewing boat tour.
• Pensacola Lighthouse - Built over 150 years ago, this historic lighthouse watches over the Gulf of Mexico – take a tour to enjoy the beautiful view from the top
• Pensacola History Museum - Learn about Florida's long history as a European settlement at the museum then follow a self-guided tour to some of the city's historic buildings.

Best time to go on the ultimate road trip in Florida

Florida is a popular winter sun escape and also a great summer vacation trip - it's one of the great year-round destinations. However, there are some things to think about when planning your trip.

Traveling in winter

Florida is really popular in winter due to its all-year sunshine, with temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit even when other parts of the country are under a thick covering of snow.

Visit in January and you'll be able to enjoy days of pirate-themed entertainment at the unique Gasparilla Pirate Fest in Tampa. And of course, there are weeks of festive events that run at the theme parks, such as Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney World, which is a unique way to get into the holiday mood.

Unlike many parts of the country, winter in Florida can be one of the busiest and more expensive times to visit so be sure to book ahead, especially if you're taking your road trip over a holiday period.

Traveling in summer

Temperatures reach the low 90s Fahrenheit in summer so on paper a Florida road trip is a great sunshine getaway.

However, parts of Florida can feel very humid during the summer months, so you might like to pick air-conditioned activities and accommodation accordingly!

From June to October there's also a chance of intense rainstorms and occasionally hurricanes so it's best to factor in a little flexibility if travelling at this time of year.

Traveling in spring or fall

Spring and fall are both excellent seasons to visit, as you can enjoy hot sunny days with temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. There will be plenty going on as you travel around the state, for example April sees Sugar Sand Festival coming to Clearwater when you can marvel at impressive sand sculptures along the beaches.

Both spring and fall are quieter than the winter and summer vacation periods, though be careful to avoid spring break if you want to avoid crowds.

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Road-trip de 7 jours en Floride : Miami Beach, Keys, Everglades – Épisode 2/2

Après vous avoir donné quelques conseils pour bien préparer son arrivée à Miami lors de vos vacances en famille, dans ce deuxième épisode, je vous emmène en voyage en Floride avec quelques belles photos.

Dans ce road trip, les kilomètres s’enchaînent, plus de 2000 kilomètres de route, 7 jours pour voir les plus beaux endroits, les plus belles plages et les coins à visiter. Nous nous sommes laissés aller au fil de la vie en Floride, en mode cool où le but de ses vacances était de prendre du bon temps, donc nous n’avons pas pu tout faire. Voyager avec des enfants nécessite certaines contraintes à prendre en compte. Pour nos déplacements, nous avons loué un Mercedes GL chez Sixt à l’aéroport de Miami .

La température de l’eau est à 30°C !

Alors oui ça paraît incroyable de le voir comme cela, en France impossible de connaître ce genre de température (peut-être en Corse) mais je peux vous garantir que la sensation est étrange. On a le sentiment qu’il fait plus chaud dans l’eau que dehors ! Il n’y a pas ce côté fraîcheur, le côté où tu hésites longuement avant de tremper tes pieds, à Miami tu sautes directement dans la mer sans crainte. Il faut savoir que la température de la mer varie entre 21°C en janvier jusqu’à 30°C en juillet/août.

Choisissez la bonne période pour partir à Miami

Pour partir à Miami, prenez conscience que dans ce petit coin de Floride le climat est tropical, humide et chaud. Alors sortez les crèmes solaire indice 50 pour les enfants (et même les parents), les tongs, car ça va chauffer ! Avec un taux d’humidité proche des 80%, il faudra quelques jours pour s’habituer, dès l’arrivée à l’aéroport de Miami on ressent ce coup de chaud et humide en sortant de l’avion.

Juste pour vous situer et bien comprendre que le climat n’a vraiment rien à voir avec ce qu’on connaît en France, la ville de Miami est donc située au sud-est de la Floride, et se trouve seulement à quelques centaines de kilomètres des Bahamas et à proximité de la mer des Caraïbes et le Golfe du Mexique. En février, mars et avril, les températures sont les plus appréciables, il fait chaud (25 à 29°C) et il ne pleut presque plus. Les fortes chaleurs se trouvent au mois de mai jusqu’en août, les températures varient autour des 30/35°C (90°F). Il y a de fortes possibilités de voir des cyclones entre août et octobre et surtout évitez de visiter la Floride et Miami les mois de septembre octobre où le climat est assez insupportable. Sachez-le, c’est la saison des ouragans et des pluies entre août et novembre, donc si vous trouvez des bonnes promos vous comprendrez pourquoi 😉

Voici un graphique du climat à Miami que j’ai trouvé sur a-miami.fr  :

Le climat, ne faites pas attention à la météo (juin)

Chaque jour la météo indiquait de l’orage et des averses, et finalement il faisait très beau et très chaud une bonne partie de la journée, c’est seulement en fin de journée que les orages et les pluies arrivent et repartent aussi vite. Alors un conseil, ne faites pas attention à la météo pour prévoir quelques sorties, nous avons fait l’erreur de faire nos sorties en fonction du temps annoncé.

Les plages de Miami, Keys, Miami Beach, south beach…

Qui n’a pas déjà entendu parler des belles plages de Miami. Mais sachez tout de suite qu’à Miami, il n’y a pas de plage, pour cela, il faudra se diriger vers Miami Beach, l’endroit le plus populaire où vous trouverez d’immense plage de sable fin et une mer au couleur paradisiaque. Sinon si vous recherchez des coins plus tranquilles pour la famille nous sommes allez à Key Biscayne ou bien direction Matheson Hammock Park où se trouve un très beau lagon artificiel. Un conseil, si l’accès est payant, allez-y pour la tranquillité, en revanche si l’accès est gratuit vous êtes sûr que vous ne serez pas les seuls à profiter des belles plages de Miami !

Plages de Miami Beach : too many people

Ce sont les plages de South Beach à Miami les plus fréquentées, si vous aimez prendre des bains de foule alors allez-y sans problème si vous êtes avec la petite famille je vous conseille d’autres plages, mais elles sont payantes. N’oubliez pas les crèmes solaires et autres tentes dépliables qui vous protègent du soleil. Vous en trouverez dans la plupart des pharmacies.

Plage de Miami Biscayne : tranquillité paradisiaque

C’est le plus simple et à quelques minutes de Miami Downtown en voiture, vous accédez à des endroits paradisiaques avec vue sur Miami et ses building encerclés d’une mer sublime. En passant devant le Miami Seaquarium (Virginia Key), continuez plus loin sur la 913 et vous allez atterrir sur Key Biscayne. Le long de la route 913 vous pouvez vous arrêter à certains endroits pour allez directement en bord de mer (accès et parking gratuit), c’est juste que les bords des plages sont étroits et s’étendent sur quelques mètres.

Crandon park à Key Biscayne : en famille

Si vous voulez être tranquille, continuez toujours sur cette même route 913, direction les Plages south beach (Key Biscayne) vous avez l’une des plus belles plages avec belle vue sur la mer, et la ville de Miami. L’accès est payant, 7 dollars on vous conseille la plage South beach plus sympa que la North beach. Quelques gros iguanes rodent dans les immenses palmiers, vous trouverez aussi quelques arbres exotiques, figuiers,… Dépaysement total, les larges plages de sable fin, une eau bleu azur très claire où l’on peut voir certains poissons. Il y a de la place pour tous, un endroit au top où vous pourrez y passer toute la journée, la plage est surveillée, et les enfants vont adorer !

Matheson Hammock park beach : joli paysage et un beau lagon !

Direction Matheson Hammock Park, comme son nom l’indique il s’agit d’un immense parc naturel en bord de mer. Et justement si vous cherchez une plage, un endroit calme en famille, il y a ce superbe lagon artificiel avec une splendide vue sur la mer, les palmiers… Le coucher de soleil doit être magnifique pour les amateurs de belles photos. Malheureusement comme le veut la saison, l’orage s’abattait sur nous en quelques minutes, nous sommes donc repartis aussi vite que possible. Pour information l’accès à ce petit paradis est payant, il faudra débourser 5 dollars, le prix de la tranquillité. A noter qu’une certaine odeur de souffre se faisait ressentir avec une eau pas vraiment transparente à The Round Beach.

Coral gables un coin à ne pas rater

En repartant, n’hésitez pas à visiter le quartier chic et riche de Coral gables, et faire une petite promenade dans le coin de Miracle Mille. Un quartier, une “ville jardin” où la nature est omniprésente, vous le verrez dans la vidéo, l’endroit est absolument superbe et les villas sont tout simplement impressionnantes. Si vous êtes toujours dans le coin, faites une petite baignade au Venetian Pool, un village aquatique de toute beauté.

Le quartier Haïtien culturel et artistique

Visite en voiture de Little Haïti, un endroit à voir si vous êtes dans les parages, une sorte de chasse au trésor ou plutôt à la plus belle fresque réalisée au quatre coins des rues. Pour les plus curieux une petite visite du centre culturel. Little Haïti est un endroit rempli d’histoire, un quartier populaire où la visite ne dure que quelques heures. Le dépaysement est total et contraste avec les autres quartiers riches de Miami.

Le petit Cuba, pas de surprise en 10 minutes !

Visite de Little havana, à vrai dire j’ai été assez déçu, il n’y a quasiment rien à voir ou du moins quelques peintures murales et une belle église aux couleurs hispaniques, ne faite pas de détour pour cela sauf si vous y tenez absolument. Si vous êtes dans le coin passez y juste pour voir en toute simplicité.

Les Key’s à faire sur 2 jours

Direction Key West, la mission du jour, traverser ces petites îles paradisiaques, une seule route pour y aller, plus de 300 km et presque 4 heures de route depuis Miami downtown. On se rapproche de Cuba et des Bahamas. Une seule journée ne suffira pas, on vous conseille si possible de prendre une ou plusieurs nuits afin de profiter des multiples activités, de faire le Sea theather où vous pourrez voir des dauphins, des phoques…

Pour le midi ou le soir, manger au bord de mer à Islamodara (restaurant Fish Company) l’endroit est suréaliste, on mange presque les pieds dans l’eau. De nombreuses enseignes proposent de faire de la plongée, à faire si vous l’envie vous prend. Enfin aller voir la ville de Key west que nous n’avons pu visiter faute de temps. Aider par notre guide du routard spécial Miami, nous nous sommes posés sur la plage BahiaHonda Beach, accès payant à 9 dollars pour 3 personnes, mais l’endroit est un joli paradis, plusieurs plages de sable fin et blanc tapissent cette mer turquoise, quelques zones d’ombre faites par de jolis palmiers, c’est juste incroyable, nous nous y sommes posé quelques heures avant de repartir mais nous n’avons pas vu encore de dauphins ni de requins 😉

Ocean Drive, le quartier qui bouge

Ocean Drive le soir c’est festif et c’est un peu le St-Tropez version Miami, ambiance, couleur caliente, la musique est présente et l’envie de danser se présente à chaque coin de rue. A quelques dizaines de mètres de la mer, Ocean Drive est le lieu pour êtes vu, vous pourrez y manger au bord de la promenade, boire un verre et apercevoir de belles autos, Bentley, Aventador dans une parure bling bling. Un conseil faites la visite de Ocean Drive de nuit en passant par Collins avenue, Indian creek, la traverser en voiture est sympa, vous pouvez le faire à pied également. Les balades le long de la cote et le long de la rivière sont à faire.

Les Everglades : crocos et airboat

Bienvenue dans l’Amérique profonde, les Everglades couvrent une grande partie de la Floride, un parc naturel marécageux. Le trajet de 1h30 à 2h00 en voiture sur la route 41, une unique parcelle bitumée où j’ai aperçu parfois des crocodiles écrasés par des véhicules, alors prudence sur la route.

Nous arrivons à Everglades City, histoire de faire du Airboat, sensations garanties avec la famille, et au passage on a même pu voir des crocodiles et même des ratons laveurs. N’oubliez pas vos produits antimoustiques si vous ne voulez pas nourrir la région 😉

Manger à Miami ?

Où manger à Miami avec des enfants, honnêtement c’est difficile ou bien nous nous sommes trop pris la tête, mais à vrai dire Mcdonald nous a sauvé la vie plus d’une fois malgré nous. Les autres expériences dans les autres restaurants n’étant pas concluantes, des restaurants, trop chers, pas de goût… La nourriture française nous manquait énormément à commencer par les croissants et pains au chocolat. Alors si certains ont des bons plans pour manger à Miami, n’hésitez pas à nous les partager car ça reste un mystère pour moi.

Faire ses courses au supermarché

Autre alternative pour manger convenablement et plus sainement faire ses courses au supermarché reste une bonne chose. Direction la chaîne de magasins Publix où vous trouverez tout pour pas trop cher si vous souhaitez cuisiner vous même. C’était la meilleure des solutions pour manger correctement, à condition d’avoir un appartement avec un coin cuisine comme notre location à OneBroadway. Ne soyez pas surpris sur la beauté des haricots verts, les aliments sont parfaits, nous sommes bien aux Etats-unis. Il existe aussi des supermarchés BIO où effectivement les prix grimpent assez vites. Un point essentiel pour manger bien, sachez qu’il n’est pas aussi facile qu’en France de bien manger.

Le Dolphin Mall, un grand centre commercial aux bonnes affaires

Si vous ne savez pas ce qu’est un Mall n’ayez crainte c’est juste un énorme centre commercial où vous trouverez tout mais surtout des fringues, baskets et des promos partout ! Si nous avons pu constater que les prix sont bien légèrement moins chers qu’en France environ 20 à 30% de moins, dans ce Mall les bonnes affaires fusaient, des promos alléchantes de 40 à 60% sur des vêtements de marques. Alors un bon conseil, prévoyez un budget fringue et surtout pensez à faire de la place dans votre valise à l’aller. Le mieux, c’est de partir avec peu d’affaires, vous aurez de la place pour le retour 😉

Alors une chose est sûre, au Dolphin Mall vous allez sûrement craquer à seulement 30 minutes du centre de Miami Downtown sans bouchon avec un trafic fluide, vous allez forcément trouver de bonnes affaires.

C’est donc le mall à faire avant de repartir, le Dolphin Mall est un endroit où vous pourrez y trouvez également de nombreux, restaurants, ambiance latino assurés.

Quelques conseils, météo, souvenirs, location, valises, guide…

Ne vous fiez pas à la météo, c’est simple notre appli météo nous indiquait des orages tous les jours et finalement il n’y avait que des averses en fin d’après-midi. Alors ne faites pas attention à la météo et restez fidèle à ce que vous avez prévu sur votre planning.

Pour la partie souvenirs pour les proches et collègues de bureau qui attendent avec impatience leurs petits portes clés (tortue, plaque d’imat Florida, tongs, carte postale..), attendez d’être à l’aéroport, plus simple et un peu moins cher que dans les autres magasins souvenirs de la région.

Un conseil, faites vraiment le plein de carburant avant de rendre le véhicule au loueur, cela vous évitera de payer un surcoût. Pas besoin de laver, lustrer le véhicule, vous pouvez le rendre dans un état correct. En revanche si vous avez fait une sortie dans la boue, nettoyer au Karsher dans un centre de lavage le plus proche de votre location, c’est un principe !

Nous avons donc rendu le véhicule chez Sixt à l’aéroport de Miami , prévoyez un bon quart d’heure en cas de forte influence, le check-out est rapide et j’ai reçu ma facture directement sur ma boîte email une fois les clés rendues.

Le guide du routard de Miami nous a bien dépanné, de bons conseils sur les activités à faire et très utile lorsque nous n’avions plus de wifi pour nos recherches sur internet.

Les valises TravelOne achetées sur lemondedubagage.com ont pris très cher, rayées, et même une éventrée, il faut dire qu’on les avait bien chargées au retour. A refaire je prendrais des valises de marques supérieures pour le côté solide et pour une utilisation sur le long terme.

Ce qu’on a pas pu faire par manque de temps :

• Orlando, parc d’attractions (prévoir une grosse journée ou 2 jours)
• Key west, on s’est arrêté à mi-parcours par manque de temps (prévoir 2 jours)
• Theater sea ( prévoir ½ journée)
• Activité plongés ( prévoir ½ journée)
• Venetian pool ( prévoir ½ journée)

Air France, très bonne expérience, Delta Airline un peu moins !

Le vol avec Air France (Aller/retour) c’est très bien passé, le personnel est très accueillant et serviable, les repas sont bons et de qualités. Certes le prix des billets reste dans la tranche haute mais on a rien sans rien.

En revanche le vol entre New York et Miami avec Delta Airline ne s’est pas forcément bien passé, le personnel masculin n’était pas vraiment sympathique et le vol avait un retard de 4 heures dû à une panne mécanique obligeant tous les passagers à descendre de l’avion (dernier vol de la journée).

Voir ou revoir notre voyage en Floride

Bilan, Miami et la Floride à refaire !

Nous avons eu 7 jours pour visiter la Floride, ça fait court, pour profiter réellement de tout, il faudra rester plus longtemps si vous voulez profiter encore plus. Comptez une quinzaine de jours pour profiter des parcs d’attractions d’Orlando et visiter en profondeur les Keys et atteindre Keys west, faire quelques musées, aquarium, centre aquatique…

Je peux vous dire que nous avons adoré la Floride et Miami, l’état d’esprit, la fraîcheur de la ville, on respire, pas de stress, c’est une belle ville où il fait bon y vivre, pas de pollution et des paysages à couper le souffle.

Miami nous manque, ce fût une belle expérience, une chose est sûre, si vous avez la chance de visiter Miami et la Floride, un seul conseil, louer un véhicule, cela vous facilitera la vie et vous fera gagner du temps pour visiter.

J’espère que vous avez apprécié le voyage !

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J’adore vos explications. Merci 1000 Fois. Je pars en floride fin juin jusqu’à mi juillet. Nous hésitons encore sur la durée 15 jours suffisent ou il est préférable de partir 21 Jours.

Combien vous a coute votre location de voiture?

Nous serons un couple combien de budget vous conseillez nous d’avoir par personne?

Je pensais faire 5 nuits sur Miami 1 nuit sur les Everglades et 4 nuits sur les keys quand pensez vous? ( il me reste pas mal de jours a caler encore ) Orlando est il vraiment nécessaire d’y aller vu que mon conjoint n’aime pas les parcs d’attraction ? Quelles activités nous conseillez vous ? Avez-vous des bons plans pour le logement ?

Merci pour votre retour

Merci pour ton commentaire, et ça me fait super plaisir de partager de belles choses. En 15 jours tu pourras faire pas mal de visites et pas mal de kilomètres. La location sur ce Mercedes Gl 400 chez Sixt nous a coûté autour des 1300€ à la semaine mais tu peux trouver moins cher et moins sympa aussi. Ca reste moins cher qu’en France où les location auto sont plus onéreuses.

Au niveau du budgte tout dépend de vos sorties, mais le prix du parking, de l’essence, des repas, … ça chiffre quand même. Disons pour 15 jours il faudra prévoir entre 600 euros et 1000 euros par personne. Prévoyez les Everglades, faites la côte, faites les Keys (3 jours), faites le tour de Miami, les plages sont belles… baladez vous et profitez car le prix de l’essence est nettement moins cher. Si vous voulez vivre le rêve américain, prenez une Ford Mustang V8 cabriolet (attention au coups de soleil).

Les bons plans sur les logements il n’y en a pas vraiment, il faut chercher sur Booking, Airbnb, sur une semaine cela nous a coûté 800 dollars dans un buiding avec un standing premium 4 étoiles il me semble (tout est dans l’article je crois).

N’hésitez pas si vous avez d’autres questions pour passer un bon voyage en Floride.

Trés bon article, Merci pour les explications

J’aime la facon dont vous ecrivez.

Merci beaucoup, c’est gentil 😉

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History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

The Ultimate Florida Road Trip Itinerary: See the Best of Florida in 10 Days!

Last Updated on: 17th March 2023, 02:20 pm

There’s no denying it. Florida is massive. Bordered by Alabama and Georgia, Florida covers an expanse of over 65,000 square miles – perfect for  planning a big Florida road trip!

Here’s everything you need to know to have an amazing Florida road trip: itinerary, travel tips, what to pack, and more.

This itinerary is designed to help you  see the best of Florida in 10 days,  but there are also suggestions for how to  see Florida in 7 days or less  and what to do if you have  two weeks in Florida!

Can’t read now? Pin for later! 

Good to Know:  This Florida road trip itinerary comes to us from Alesha and Jarryd, two travel writers, photographers, and creators from Australia who have been traveling the world together non-stop since 2008.

Their passion for adventure travel, sustainable tourism, and van life has seen them visit some of the most remote destinations on the planet, seeking out incredible landscapes and unique cultures. You can follow their adventures on  NOMADasaurus  and  Van Life Theory .

It was also edited by me (Stephanie Craig – the girl in the sidebar). I have added some additional Florida road trip planning tips and sections from my own travels in the state.

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Top 7 Most Popular Florida Tours & Attractions

Before you dig into all the state has to offer, you should know that these are the most popular guided tours, attractions, and day trips in Florida.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center Complex: Admission Ticket

Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

Miami Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

Key West Day Trip from Miami with Activities

Miami: City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands

St Augustine: Nights of Lights Trolley Tour

Miami: Sunset Cruise through Biscayne Bay and South Beach

How to Get Around Florida

On our last  road trip to Florida , we used our own car and drove down from Hilton Head, South Carolina via Georgia.

Using  your own car  is a great option if you are close enough to  drive to Florida  to start your trip.

However, if you plan to  fly to Florida,  you will need to rent a car. 

Make sure to  book your vehicle ahead  of time since rental car inventory in the US has been fluctuating.

I use  Discover Cars  to  book rental cars  on my trips. You can also check  RentalCars.com  if you want to compare prices.

If you want to  book an RV  instead of a car, you can find the right one for your trip on  RVshare.

Reserve a rental car for your road trip.

How Much Does it Cost to Roadtrip Florida?

The average  cost of a Florida road trip  might surprise you. 

While I’ve seen prices online that a  typical Florida road trip costs about $1300  per person for seven days, I don’t believe this factors in the full cost to travel around Florida.

This would be about  $1850 per person for ten days …which seems low.

Do not use this number , instead, look at each travel cost and the style that your family travels in.

How much you end up spending depends almost entirely on your travel style.

Hotels can range from  $75 a night in some parts to $200 a night  even for budget options in pricier parts of the state. 

Vacation rentals can end up being much more than that,  so self-catering in these circumstances might not end up saving you that much money.

When you  create your trip budget , determine your transportation costs for getting to Florida and how much your accommodations will be.

Make sure to look at the costs for your family for each category:  Gas (petrol), Hotel or Accommodations, Parking, Food, Attractions, Emergency/Miscellaneous, Souvenirs, Travel Insurance, and Gear.

Before any trip, I  make a budget spreadsheet  and start tracking these nine budget categories and look up the prices for where I’ll be going.

For food, you can budget anywhere  from $30 per person per day (some cheap meals out and some groceries) to $100 per person per day (or more!)  if you will be doing mostly eating out and including a lot of drinks with your meals.

For our family, I typically budget  $100 per day for all three of us  for meals since our son rarely eats off of the menu. 

However, in pricier destinations, we end up spending more even when we cook half our meals ourselves.

For things to do in Florida, you can  include mostly free things to do like public parks and beaches , or you can enjoy some of the  more exciting once-in-a-lifetime tours and adventures.

If you add a trip to   Disney World or Universal Studios,  you can easily spend over $100 per person per day on activities. 

For a ten-day trip for two adults, I would budget:

 $2000 for accommodations  ($200 per night including taxes and fees)

$1500 for food  ($75 per person, per day)

$2000 for activities  ($100 per person per day, or set aside $300 for visiting a theme park plus $75 per person per day for the rest of the trip. Kayaking, snorkeling, museums, boat trips, and day trips can add up fast in Florida!)

$250 for gasoline  (petrol) (this is one of the most important categories to check ahead of time since gasoline prices fluctuate and are different in different seasons)

$250 for parking  (parking in bigger cities and at theme parks can be pricey. You may need more if you plan to use hotel valet.)

$300 for souvenirs  (more if you love shopping)

$200 for  travel insurance   (get a  quote   ahead of time)

$500 for emergencies and miscellaneous expenses

This means that for my initial budget, I’d want to set aside $7000. 

However, I’d start  plugging in actual prices  as I book things. I would take money out of the budget where I know I’ll save money (for example, we tend to cook a lot of our meals in our hotel because my husband is a chef). 

However, if there’s an area I know we will want more room, like more tour options or more days at theme parks, then I would  look up the realistic costs  and add more to those categories.

You can spend less  than this if you eat more meals at your accommodations, spend more time at beaches and parks than on tours, skip the theme parks, skip the shopping, and book real budget accommodations where possible.

You can also easily spend more  than this if you splurge for luxury hotels and eat every meal out, spend your days on nice tours, and book private experiences.

Good to Know:  this budget estimate doesn’t include getting to Florida or renting a car because those costs will depend entirely upon where you’re coming from and how you’re getting to Florida.

How to Have a Fun Road Trip in Florida (Florida Road Trip Tips)

Use these tips to make your  Florida road trip planning  go even smoother.

Add Some Wacky Florida Road Trip Stops

You really can’t run out of Florida travel ideas, and this itinerary is truly packed. However, it can’t hurt to find some fun  Florida roadside attractions  and add them to your trip.

Mix Old Florida and New Florida

There are so many different places to drive to in Florida, so make sure you don’t do the same thing every day!

Yes, you’ll want to see Florida Keys beaches, Nasa, and Little Havana. But make sure to see some of the state’s historic sites in St. Augustine or add on some time on  Amelia Island.

Make Sure to Research Your Beaches

While white sand beaches and crystal blue water can be found in Florida, not every beach is the same! 

Look up the beaches near where you’ll be staying and decide which ones are the most enticing to you.

Prep Your Car Before You Leave

To road trip Florida right,  you need to be in a car that is  comfy and safe.  

If you’ll be using your car, get your  oil changed and your tires and brakes checked  before you leave.

You don’t want a preventable car issue to  ruin or delay your trip.

If you’ll be  renting a car , make sure it will be one that you’ll enjoy sitting in for 18 hours of drive time and almost a thousand miles!

Read next: 21 Things to Know Before You Rent a Car in Miami

How to Get Better Florida Vacation Photos

If you are going on a  special trip  to Florida, like a  family vacation or couples getaway , you may want to leave making sure you have the best vacation photos!

You can use the service  Flytographer  to book a personal  Florida photo session  so that you leave knowing you have amazing pictures to help you treasure the memories of your trip.

I used them in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and I loved how our family photos came out! In  just thirty minutes , we were able to capture  professional travel photos  that will last a lifetime.

I even used the photos for our holiday card!

You can use the code  HISTORYFANGIRL  for 10% off your first photo session.

Book your Florida vacation photo session.

The Best Florida Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days

Dotted with vibrant cities and charming rural areas, the  Sunshine State  is the third most populous in the USA. 

Because it has the  longest coastline  in the country, you can expect plenty of  beautiful beaches and nautical activities  that you can enjoy during your road trip. 

One of the best things about  exploring Florida by car  is that each city feels like a whole other country with different activities, food, people, and culture. 

More importantly, there are  plenty of hotels and motels  along the way where you can pull over for the night. 

For convenience’s sake, most people  start to road trip Florida in Miami. 

From there, you can explore some of the cities in the vicinity before making your way north to finally  end in Jacksonville.  

Owing to its size, it’s usually recommended to allocate yourself  ten days  to properly take in everything that this beautiful state has to offer. 

However, there are ideas for what to do on a  one-week Florida road trip  and a  two-week Florida road trip  after.

Florida Road Trip Itinerary Day 1: Start in Miami 

The aptly-named  Magic City  offers the ideal platform to kick off your 10-day Florida road trip. 

This glamorous, sun-soaked city may be on the more expensive side, but it does offer plenty to thrill adults and children alike. 

If you’re visiting in spring or summer, there’s no denying that the best way to see the city is by  renting a bike. 

Prices hover around the $5 mark for half an hour or $24 for a full-day rental. 

Since it’s one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the USA, you’ll be able to bike to popular  Miami attractions   such as the  iconic Miami Beach and  South Beach  or the  Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

If there’s one thing Miami is particularly known for, other than its near-perpetual sun, of course, it’s the  excellent cuisine. 

Striking the right balance between healthy eats and calorie-laden albeit moreish dishes, the city is home to local delicacies such as chicken ‘n’ watermelon ‘n’ waffles,  key lime pies,  arepas, chilled stone crabs with hash browns, and of course, the  world-famous Cuban sandwiches. 

Make sure to set aside time to eat your way through  Little Havana , a Miami neighborhood that is one of the most unique places to visit in Florida.

A mere fifteen-minute drive from Miami takes you to Coral Gables where you will find  The Venetian Pool,  a novelty attraction that also happens to be the largest freshwater swimming pool in the states. 

Originally built in 1924, this pool was modeled after Venetian grotto pools and has a natural filtration system to ensure that the water always remains clean.  

Where to Stay in Miami 

Budget:  Hotel La Flora

Mid-Range:  YVE Hotel Miami

Luxury:  Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club

Best Tours in Miami

City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands

A Taste of South Beach Food Tour

Sunset Cruise through Biscayne Bay and South Beach

Day 2: Get out on the Everglades 

In stark contrast to Miami’s bustling city center,  the Everglades  offers quiet and soothing spots, perfect for fans of the great outdoors. 

Just a quick, twenty minutes’ drive west of Miami, the Everglades offers an abundance of things to explore, including multiple nature trails and swamps. 

One of the eleven  national parks in Florida,  the Everglades belongs on your Florida bucket list.

You can visit  Everglades National Park from Miami ,  home to endemic mangroves, manatees, panthers, the Wilderness Waterway Trail, and of course, those infamous Floridian alligators. 

One of the park’s main attractions is the Shark Valley Tram ride which spans over two hours. 

And while the tram certainly is speedier, you also have the option of renting a bike instead. 

Of course, no trip to the Everglades will be considered complete without the quintessential guided canoe tour or  airboat tour  through the swamps and mangroves.  

It’s good to know that despite its spectacular sights, The Everglades can be exceptionally humid and insect-infested. 

As such, you may want to slather on  bug spray  as well as  sunscreen  and wear loose, comfortable clothing. 

Best Everglades Tours Leaving from Miami

From Miami: Half-Day Everglades Airboat Ride & Wildlife Show

Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure plus Miami Biscayne Bay Cruise

Everglades: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show

Day 3: Kick Back in Key West  

From Miami, take a scenic,  three-hour drive to Key West  which is especially known for its excellent pies and whiskey culture.

Make sure to enjoy the drive, because it’s one of the  most scenic drives in the US.  You’ll get to drive on the modern  7-Mile Bridge  that connects Knights Key with Little Duck Key.

Located  closer to many Caribbean islands  than mainland Florida, you really will feel like you’re driving to another world.

While you’ll just get a taste of  Florida keys  life, you can see a lot here in just twenty-four hours.

Guided distillery tours usually cost between $10 – $20, and if you’re interested in a few products, most distilleries will ship the bottles to your home address for an extra charge.

As an alternative to a distillery tour, you can go on a  craft cocktail crawl.

While in Key West, don’t miss a visit to the  Hemmingway House  where famed American writer Ernest Hemingway used to live back in the ’30s. 

This establishment is also known for its extensive population of  six-toed cats  who are said to be direct descendants of the writer’s actual cats, hence their nickname: the  Hemingway cats.

Locals and tourists alike often flock to the  Southernmost Point Buoy  which, as the name suggests, is known for being the  southernmost point in the USA  as well as the lowest land (altitude wise) in North America. 

After touring this site, you can indulge in some shopping at  Mallory Square  or check out other famous points of interest such as  Truman Little White House , the  Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum,  and  The Key West Butterfly Conservatory. 

When the weather’s sunny – which is nearly always the case in Key West – you can also check out Key West’s many scenic beaches such as  Smathers , Fort Zachary Taylor, Fort Jefferson, and Higgs Beach.

There’s also the nearby  Bahia Honda State Park  if you want even more natural beauty.

Where to Stay in Key West

Budget:  Harborside Motel & Marina

Mid-Range:  Ibis Bay Resort

Luxury:  Kimpton Ella’s Cottages, an IHG Hotel

Best Tours in Key West

Reef Snorkel Morning Tour with Breakfast & Mimosas

Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West

Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Eco Tour

Sunset Cruise with Buffet Dinner and Open Bar

Old Town Trolley 12-Stop Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Key West

Two-Hour Key Largo Jet Ski Tour

Day 4: Get Back to the Mainland with a Stop in Naples 

Today will be the longest day in the car. Leaving Key West, it’s a five-hour  drive to Naples, Florida.

Hailed as one of the  best beach destinations in Florida,  Naples sees over 280 days of sunshine each year which is why golfing is one of the area’s most popular sports. 

It was named after  Naples, Italy , as local tourism and development promoters claimed that their  bay on the Gulf Coast  was more beautiful than the Bay of Naples.

Steer away from the typical brochure-like activities, however, and you’ll find a spectacular assortment of  hidden gems to uncover in Naples.  

If you’re traveling with children, you may wish to check out the  Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples  which was designed by children with the help of pediatric psychologists. 

Some of the museum’s main exhibits include a virtual pond with water plants and fish, a produce market, and a Journey Through the Everglades exhibition featuring a mangrove maze and a massive banyan tree. 

During your time in Naples, you can also check out the  Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve  which offers over 110,000 acres of marine estuaries and coastal landscapes.

Despite its many sights, the entry ticket to the park only costs $5 per adult. 

Since you won’t get here until the early afternoon, pick one or two things to do in Naples that interest you. And if it’s’ spending the afternoon at the beach, that’s great, too!

Where to Stay in Naples

Budget:  Super 8 by Wyndham Naples

Mid-Range:  Best Western Naples Plaza Hotel 

Luxury:  Hilton Naples

Best Tours in Naples that Leave in the Afternoon

Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour up to 12 people

Naples Sightseeing Boat Tour

Mangrove Tunnels Eco Tour (Kayak & Paddle Board)

Manatee Sightseeing Eco-Tour by Boat in Naples

Day 5: Slow Down on Sanibel Island

An hour’s drive north of Naples takes you to the  Sanibel Causeway  where you’ll find a glorious assortment of funky eateries, sprawling wildlife preserves, and silky beaches. 

Heading into  Sanibel Island  almost feels like visiting a whole other country: indeed, the laidback atmosphere and slow pace of living are perfect for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of their daily activities. 

On the eastern tip of Sanibel, you’ll find the  historic Sanibel Lighthouse  which stands at 112 feet above sea level and is one of the most  beautiful lighthouses on the East Coast.

This popular attraction is surrounded by miles of soft sand fringed by a  crystalline lagoon. 

You’ll even find picnic tables, showers, and restroom facilities. After taking a dip in the ocean, you can always head over to one of the nearby restaurants, most of which specialize in  fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. 

If you’re planning on spending the night, you will be glad to learn that Sanibel offers plenty of budget-friendly options such as  family-owned inns and vacation rentals. 

Families who are more into camping can check out sites such as  Periwinkle Park  fitted with eating areas, showers, and even laundry facilities.  

Where to Stay in Sanibel

Budget:  Seaside Inn

Mid-Range:  Sunset Beach Inn

Luxury:  Sundial Beach Resort & Spa

Day 6: Visit Iconic Fort Myers Beach & the City of Fort Myers

From Sanibel Island, you can easily hop over to  Fort Myers,  located just an hour away. 

While there’s no denying that this region is globally acclaimed for its iconic  Fort Myers Beach,  rest assured that there are also plenty of other sites that you can visit during your trip there. 

Times Square,  for example, lies directly behind the  Fort Myers pier  and offers plenty of restaurants with Al Fresco seating, street performers, old-fashioned ice cream parlors, and souvenir shops among others. 

Thanks to the many pedestrian-only streets, Times Squares is also one of the most  walkable areas of Fort Myers. 

If you happen to be there in spring, you can always catch a game at the Hammond or Jetblue Park Stadiums. 

In February, the stadiums come to life for  MLB Spring Training  with major league games by the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox. 

Where to Stay in Fort Myers

Budget:  Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers

Mid-Range:  The Neptune Resort

Luxury:  Luminary Hotel & Co., Autograph Collection

Best Tours in Fort Myers

Marco Island: 2-Hour Dolphin, Birding, and Shelling Tour

Historic Walking Tour of Fort Myers   (Likely to sell out)

Marco Island: 10,000 Islands Shelling Tour by Boat

Fort Myers Beach Haunted Pub Crawl

IMAG History & Science Center: Skip-the-Line Ticket

Day 7: Experience Florida’s Inland Sea at Lake Okeechobee

Home to the biggest freshwater lake in the whole of Florida,  Lake Okeechobee  and  Okeechobee County  are found less than two hours away from Fort Myers. 

Because of its many outdoorsy activities, abundant wildlife, and RV parks, this region is hailed as one of the  best family-friendly destinations  in the United States. 

Known for its relaxed vibes and charming  old-fashioned amenities  such as horse-drawn carriages, Okeechobee County also happens to be one of the  most affordable places to visit in the Sunshine State,  perfect for those traveling on a budget.  

In terms of attractions, locals and tourists travel to Okeechobee County to explore the  famous Lake Okeechobee  which provides plenty of boating, fishing, as well as camping opportunities.

Nicknamed  Florida’s Inland Sea,  the sheer size of this lake in southeastern Florida might surprise you!

Because of its lush vegetation, Okeechobee County is also ideal for activities such as  hiking, biking, and air boating.  

Where to Stay Near Lake Okeechobee

Budget:  Flamingo Motel

Mid-Range:  Hampton Inn Okeechobee – Lake Okeechobee

Luxury:  Near Lake, 2 Beds, 1 Bath, Fit’s 7, Full Kitchen, Kayak Included

Best Tours in Okeechobee County

Lake Okeechobee Fishing Trip   (Full Day)

Lake Okeechobee Fishing Trip  (Half Day)

Day 8: Feel the Magic in Orlando 

From Okeechobee County, head north  through   Kissimmee  as you make your way to  Orlando in Central Florida. 

If there’s one thing this city is known for, it’s the  Walt Disney World Resort.

This attraction needs no introduction, but suffice to say it’s undoubtedly going to please kids and adults alike. 

Similarly,  Universal Orlando Resort  draws millions of visitors each year thanks to its many  Harry Potter-themed attractions. 

If you’re not the theme park type, fret not! 

Orlando offers no shortage of things to do other than theme parks. 

An hour outside of the city’s main touristy zones is  Boggy Creek  which offers thrilling headwater rides aboard  airboats that can go up to 40mph.  

Golf aficionados can work on their swing at the  Universal City Walk’s Hollywood Drive-In Golf,  a sprawling 18-hole course with themes such as ‘Invaders from Planet Putt’ and ‘The Haunting of Ghostly Greens.’ 

Because it’s part of the Universal City Walk, expect plenty of entertainment, retail, and dining options virtually everywhere in the area. 

While in Orlando, you may also wish to hop on a ferry to the   Kennedy Space Center   located on Merritt Island.

If you are looking for some  fun Orlando nightlife, check out the House of Blues.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Budget:  Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs® Resort Area

Mid-Range:  Walt Disney World Swan Reserve  

Luxury:  JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa

Best Tours in Orlando

The Wheel at ICON Park Observation Wheel + Options

Universal Orlando: Base Ticket with Easy Cancellation

Kennedy Space Center Day Trip with Transport from Orlando

Boggy Creek Airboat Ride

LEGOLAND Florida Resort Admission Ticket

Day 9: Relax on the Palm Coast   

With mesmerizing sunsets and sprawling nature reserves,  Palm Coast  is found a quick seventy-five-minute drive from Orlando. 

Nestled between  Daytona Beach and St. Augustine , Palm Coast is also known for its many golf resorts, some of which were designed by Jack Nicklaus. 

If fishing is more your thing, you can always head over to the  Intracoastal Waterway  which covers an expanse of 20 acres. 

Some of the Waterway’s most popular amenities include  hiking trails, a children’s playground, a fishing pier, and picnic pavilions. 

An attraction that’s unique to the area is the  European Village  which is a massive outdoor mall with park-like features and European architecture. 

The European Village regularly hosts special events including live music and the  European Village Farmers Market,  where local farmers and artisans showcase their products. 

Nearby  Flagler Beach  is another great way to relax in this part of Florida.

Pro Tip:  Don’t confuse  Palm Coast  with  Palm Beach!  The two are over three hours apart.

Where to Stay in Palm Coast

Budget:  Legacy Vacation Resorts – Palm Coast

Mid-Range:  Fairfield Inn & Suites Palm Coast I-95

Luxury:  Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Day 10: Finish Your Florida Road Trip Itinerary in Jacksonville, the First Coast

End the best road trip in Florida with a  drive to Jacksonville  which is found less than an hour’s drive from Palm Coast. 

There are also lots of fun  things to do in St. Augustine ,  which is on the route from Palm Coast to Jacksonville, so stop there for a few hours if you’d like!

Those traveling with children will enjoy a visit to the  Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens  which houses over 1,000 types of plants and 2,400 animal species. 

Tickets are priced at $24.95 for adults and $19.95 for children (aged 3-12).

Jacksonville ‘s cuisine  is famous all over the world! So while in the city, be sure to try out classic delicacies such as the Peruvian Sub, Hubbard Pie, Banana Curry, and, yes as strange as it may sound, Brussel Sprouts Tacos.

This is a great city to  enjoy a food tour,  just book early because it’s likely to sell out.

Just thirty minutes from Jacksonville is  Little Talbot Island State Park,  which is one of the few islands in Northeast Florida which is still underdeveloped. 

With  five miles of unblemished beaches,  this island has a campground as well as plenty of kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. 

After touring the park, head back to Jacksonville where you can check out Beaches Town Center, a quaint boulevard located between Neptune and Atlantic Beach. 

This dining and entertainment hub features sweeping ocean views as well as plenty of art galleries and beachy souvenir shops. 

Where to Stay in Jacksonville

Budget:  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Jacksonville, FL

Mid-Range:  DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront

Luxury:  Homewood Suites by Hilton Jacksonville-Downtown/Southbank

Best Tours in Jacksonville

City Tour in Downtown Jacksonville

Corks & Forks Strolling Tour

Flytographer Photo Session to End Your Trip

Jacksonville Residential Architecture & History Tour

Group Surf Lesson in Jacksonville

Florida Road Trip Map

Your tour to Florida is going to cover a lot of grounds – almost one thousand miles and about 18 hours of drive time.

Here’s what your road trip around Florida ends up looking like on the map:

What to Do on a Florida Road Trip: 2 Weeks or More

You really  can’t ever run out of Florida trip ideas  – the state is just too big and too beautiful!

If you have more than ten days to explore Florida, then you have some choices.

You can stay in any of these places longer. Let’s be honest, one day in most of these places isn’t enough to get to know them.

You won’t be sorry if you’re able to add another day to your stops in  Miami, Key West, or Orlando , that’s for sure!

Another option is to add  additional cities to your Florida itinerary.  Here are a few more of my favorite places to  road trip in Florida :

More Places to Stop on a Road Trip to Florida

Here is even more  fun Florida road trip stops!

Amelia Island

One of my favorite places to visit in Florida, you can spend an entire  weekend in Amelia Island  soaking up the strange history (from the  French and Spanish  and beyond) and gorgeous  Atlantic Coast beaches.

The town of  Fernandina Beach,  which boasts less than thirteen thousand permanent residents, is one of the  best small towns in Florida.

You can add an  Amelia Island visit  before or after your stop in Jacksonville.

Here are tips for  planning a stop on Amelia Island   if you decide to add it.

Cape Canaveral

If you’re a NASA fan, you might want to make a separate stop in  Cape Canaveral  instead of tacking it to your time in Orlando.

You will want to make sure to stop at  Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center Complex .

If you want to see more of the literal  Space Coast of Florida,  head to nearby  Cocoa Beach,  one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida.

Add your stop in Cape Canaveral right after you leave Orlando.

Clearwater 

Clearwater  is popular with  Major League Baseball fans  for its Spring Training schedule and people who want to visit serene state parks like  Honeymoon Island State Park.

You would add this before or after your stop in Okeechobee Country since it’s  located near St. Petersburg and Tampa. 

St. Pete is another great town in the area, so you can opt for that instead if you want to see this part of Florida.

Instead of flying into Miami, you could  fly into Palm Beach International Airport  and start your Florida road trip in luxury.

This famous resort town offers  golf courses,   five-star hotels, great beaches, art deco museums, and more.

I adore Palm Beach and  Palm Beach county.

Here are my  favorite things to do in Palm Beach  if you want to start your trip here instead and drive to Miami after.

If you want to see  Florida’s panhandle,   then add a stop in  Pensacola  at the end of your trip. 

It’s a bit of a trek out here from the rest of Florida, but you’ll get to see a different side of the Sunshine State.

There are great Gulf Coast beaches along with educational opportunities like a stop at the  Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum  and the  National Naval Aviation Museum. 

If you add it, put it at the end of your trip (after Jacksonville), and  fly out from Pensacola  instead.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine  boasts that its the  oldest city in the US.  Here you can visit the Spanish  Castillo de San Marcos  and the  St. Augustine Lighthouse.

While this itinerary already mentions St. Augustine as a great place to stop, you can spend an entire day exploring the city before moving on to your last stop in Jacksonville.

Looking for More Places to Visit in Florida?

Here are twelve more ideas, or you could visit one of the eleven  US National Parks in Florida.

Crystal River

Daytona Beach

Fort Lauderdale

Gainesville

Ocala National Forest

Panama City (Panama City Beach)

Tarpon Springs

Weeki Wachee Springs

What to Do on a Florida Road Trip: 1 Week or Less

If you are looking for  Florida road trip ideas that don’t take longer than a week , here are a few ideas.

And don’t worry – some of the best road trips in Florida don’t have to take that long. You can see so much of the Sunshine State in  seven or five days, or even during a 3-day weekend!

East Coast Florida Road Trip

Start your Florida East Coast Road Trip in Jacksonville and make your way through St. Augustine, Palm Coast, and Palm Beach. End in Miami.

Central Florida Road Trip

​Fly into Orlando and make stops in Ocala, Clearwater, St. Pete’s, and fly out of Tampa.

Florida Panhandle Road Trip

Fly into Tallahassee and see Panama City and Panama City Beach and Pensacola before ending in Perdido Key at the Floribama Shore.

North Florida Road Trip

​Fly in and out of Jacksonville, with stops in Amelia Island, St. Augustine, Palm Coast, and Vero Beach.

South Florida Road Trip

Fly into Palm Beach and see the Everglades, and the Florida Keys, and fly out of Miami.

Weekend Road Trips in Florida

If you only have a weekend, I would fly in and out of one city and take a day trip to another area if you want to see more.

You can easily enjoy the best of Miami, the Florida Keys,  Amelia Island,   Palm Beach,  or Orlando in one weekend without the hassle of trying to spend most of your time in a car.

Alternatively, you could do these short Florida road trips:

• Miami to Key West
• Jacksonville to Daytona Beach
• Tampa to Fort Myers
• Orlando to Ocala
• Orlando to Vero Beach
• Jacksonville to Amelia Island to St. Augustine
• Tampa to Crystal River to Ocala
• Miami to Fort Lauderdale to Palm Beach
• Tallahassee to Panama City to Pensacola

5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to Florida

You know to bring  sunscreen and sunglasses,  but here are five items you do not want to forget!

First, get a guidebook like the  Lonely Planet Florida . It’s not easy to find traditional guidebooks once you land.

If you will be going on a road trip around Florida or nearby Georgia and South Carolina, I love Lonely Planet’s  Florida & the South’s Best Road Trips . 

Second, make sure to bring your  cell phone . You will want to stay connected during your trip, plus it will serve as a navigation system and a go-to camera. 

I use an  iPhone 12 Pro  these days, but I have also used  Samsung  phones in the past.

Third, grab a  camera . While it’s great to have a cell phone with you for quick pics, if you want to do more serious photography or take more videos, I find it nice to travel with a separate dedicated camera as well.

If I will be wrestling with my toddler on the trip, I’ll grab my  Sony ZV-1 , which is a powerful compact camera with great video capabilities as well. 

If it’s just me, I’ll take my  Nikon   (though if you’re buying a new camera I have my eye on this  Sony ).

Next, bring a  waterproof bag  (also knowns as a dry bag) so that you can safely bring your electronics to the beach or kayaking.

You don’t want to ruin your trip with a drowned cell phone or wet camera, but you also don’t want to miss out on capturing all those great beach moments with your loved ones!

Finally, bring a  backup charging bank  for your phone. 

Even though my new phone has an awesome battery life, I would not want to be out on a boat or a tour for the day and end up with a dead phone. 

It’s a safety issue as well as an inconvenience.

More Florida Travel Resources

We just love Florida! I’ve been six times, and I already can’t wait to go back! Here are all the Florida travel blog posts that I have to help you plan your trip around this wonderful state!

Florida State-Wide Guides

125 Fantastic Quotes about Florida and Florida Instagram Caption Inspiration!

The 11 National Parks in Florida: Why + How to See Each One!

Florida City + Regional Guides

17 Essential Amelia Island Travel Tips: Planning a Trip to Amelia Island, Florida made Simple!

3 Days on Amelia Island: Itinerary for a Magical Weekend in Amelia Island (Plus Ideas for 1, 2 & 4 Days)

21 Reasons to Visit Amelia Island, Florida, an Atlantic Coast Gem

Where to Stay in Amelia Island: The Best Hotels & Accommodations on Amelia Island, Florida

The Everglades

The Best Quotes about the Everglades in Florida

An Irreverent History of Disney World

21 Things to Know Before You Rent a Car in Miami

Best Quotes about Miami, Florida

51 Perfect Things to Do in Palm Beach, Florida + Palm Beach County!

Best Quotes about Palm Beach, Florida

Florida is Included in these Round-Ups

The 40 Most Scenic Drives in America for Stunning Weekend Getaways

30 Historic Cities in the US to Explore on Your Next US Getaway

30 of the Best Historic Towns in America for a Charming Getaway

27 of the Best Art Museums in the US for Your Next Cultural Escape

27 Most Beautiful East Coast Lighthouses & How to Visit Them!

17 Houses of Famous Authors You Can Visit in Real Life!

7 Best College Towns in America for an Awesome Collegiate Getaway

Traveling the Green Book

Guidebooks I Used to Plan My Trip Around the South

These are the travel guidebooks that I used to plan my entire 5-week Southern USA road trip. I highly recommend each of them!

This is My South  – written by my friend Caroline Eubanks of the  eponymous blog , this book is a must-read if you plan on visiting a few places on your trip.

Lonely Planet Florida & the South’s Best Trips  – this book was essential for me when I was trying to plan our road trip and understanding what was near each other and what absolutely not to miss.

Moon U.S. Civil Rights Trail: A Traveler’s Guide to the People, Places, and Events that Made the Movement  – we did a lot of Civil Rights and Civil War historic sites on our trip, and if you’ll be doing any of this kind of travel, make sure to get this. 

It was invaluable for finding off-the-beaten-path sites and can’t miss Black-owned historic businesses.

Before You Leave for Florida – Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for your Florida vacation, make sure you have a valid  Travel Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I like to use  Safety Wings   when I travel, and I happily recommend them.

It’s especially important to get travel insurance whenever you are more than one hundred miles from home, hanging out in large cities, or doing outdoor activities like going to the beach or kayaking.

So basically everything that is fun about visiting Florida.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

If you are going to go on a Florida road trip from NYC (like I did when I was staying at the Grove Pointe Apartments Jersey City NJ ) then you need to decide whether you are going to fly out of JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark. Alternatively, you could rent a car in NYC and drive down.

Pin this Florida Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days in Florida for Your Florida Road Trip Planner!

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The Perfect 1-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary (Stops & Activities)

Looking for ideas to plan the perfect 1-week Florida road trip itinerary?

Well, you’ve come to the right place! I’m here to be your virtual travel guide, sharing all the best details and must-see spots for an unforgettable week-long trip.

From vibrant cities like Miami to pristine beaches like Siesta Beach and everything in between, Florida has a variety of landscapes and adventures. And hey, why listen to me? Well, I’ve explored lots of places in this beautiful state as a former resident and can offer some insider tips and hidden gems. 

Ready? Let’s dive into this 7 day Florida road trip itinerary through the Sunshine State!

Florida Road Trip 1 Week Itinerary

While it’s (surprisingly) difficult to plan a Florida road trip 1 week itinerary, I’ll do my best to give you some great ideas to help you plan and find what’s best for you. You’ll be starting out in Miami, heading to the Gulf Coast, central Florida and then back to Miami. 

Note: This itinerary assumes you’ll be flying into Miami International Airport (MIA) and that you’ll be driving from there. (As an alternative, you can also reach Miami by bus .)

Day 1 – Miami

Welcome to the vibrant city of Miami, where the sun always shines and the energy is contagious! Your road trip is about to kick off with a bang as we dive headfirst into the captivating charms of the Magic City. 

Explore Miami Beach

Miami Beach is a must-visit destination in Miami. Start your day right with an incredible breakfast at The Front Porch Café, known for its mouth watering pancakes and cozy beachfront vibes. 

The Miami Beach area is famous for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and Art Deco architecture. Take a stroll along Ocean Drive and admire the colorful buildings, or rent a bike and explore the area on two wheels. You can also rent a beach chair and umbrella and soak up some sun on the beach.

Explore Little Havana

Make sure to swing by Little Havana, a vibrant neighborhood that exudes the spirit of Cuba. Stroll along Calle Ocho, inhale the aroma of freshly rolled cigars, and savor a strong cup of Cuban coffee. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of salsa music and witness the passionate art of salsa dancing. It’s a sensory experience you won’t want to miss!

For a delicious lunch, head over to Versailles, an iconic Cuban restaurant in Little Havana, where you can savor authentic dishes like Ropa Vieja and mouth watering Medianoche sandwiches. 

Check out Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is an outdoor art gallery that features colorful murals and graffiti art. The area is home to many art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Take a stroll around the area and admire the vibrant street art. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks in the area (if you haven’t eaten already).

Enjoy the Nightlife

When dinner time rolls around, make your way to Joe’s Stone Crab, a Miami restaurant famous for its heavenly seafood and lively atmosphere.

Miami is known for its vibrant nightlife. Head to South Beach and party the night away or enjoy a night out at one of the many clubs or bars. You could also check out a rooftop bar in downtown Miami and enjoy a drink with a view (or even a view from a boat ).

That’s it for day one in Miami! Get some rest and get ready for another exciting day on your Florida road trip.

Day 2 – The Everglades

You wake up early on Day 2 of your Florida road trip excited because you’re going to explore the Everglades! The park is located just a short drive from Miami, making it an easy trip.

It’s time to trade the cityscape for a little bit of untamed wilderness. You’ll be driving along the Tamiami Trail since you’ll head to Naples later today while stopping off to explore parts of the Everglades.

Note: You won’t have a chance to see all of the amazing things in this National Park, but you’ll still have a chance to see quite a bit. However, if you’re up for a 2+ hour detour to head to the official Park, I’d say do it! Otherwise, follow this itinerary for a more direct route.

Take an Airboat Tour

Your day will kick off with an adrenaline-pumping airboat tour through the heart of the Everglades. You’ll zip across the shimmering sawgrass prairies on the lookout for alligators lurking beneath the surface and colorful birds soaring above. Get ready for a wild ride that will leave you with plenty of memories.

Pro-Tip: Morning or dusk is a great time to look for alligators.

Your airboat tour should take about an hour or so and afterwards it’s time to grab some lunch. Coopertown Airboat tour not only has a great tour of the Everglades but also a restaurant where you can try anything from alligator bites to frog legs!

Shark Valley Visitor Center

After lunch and your airboat tour, head to Shark Valley to see the park’s famous observation tower . The tower offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and you might even spot a few alligators out sunbathing below.

While at Shark Valley, there’s a 15 mile trail to explore via bikes or by a tram tour. This trail offers great views of the Everglades and park’s diverse habitats, including sawgrass marshes, cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks.

Drive Scenic Loop Road

Get ready for a scenic and adventurous drive along Loop Road in Big Cypress National Preserve—it’s an absolute gem for this itinerary! This scenic route (Route 94) will take you deep into the heart of the Everglades. 

You’ll navigate the winding road and catch plenty of alligators sunbathing near the roadside. With every twist and turn, you’ll find new landscapes—vast sawgrass marshes, towering cypress trees, and, of course, plenty of wildlife. 

Quick note: this is a dirt road so make sure your car is up for this!

Drive to Naples & Watch the Sunset

As the day draws to a close, it’s time to make your way to the charming coastal city of Naples. You’ll continue to take the Tamiami Trail until you get to Naples. From there, you can either check in to your hotel or head out to the famous Naples Pier to catch the sunset and a quick dinner.

Day 3 – Naples

On day three of your 1 week Florida road trip, you’ll be exploring the beautiful Gulf Coast city of Naples. Naples is known for its beaches, high end shopping, and world class golf courses, so get ready for an exciting day!

Enjoy your morning in the sun

Kickstart your day with a quick breakfast or a coffee pick-me-up. Then, hit the beach (Vanderbilt Beach is a nice spot) for some sunshine or, if you’re feeling adventurous, opt for a more active way to spend the morning. Go swimming, take a stroll along the shore, go paddle boarding or kayaking to explore the waters nearby.

Visit the Highlights in Naples

After your morning in the sun, grab some lunch and then explore one of Naples’ highlights – either the Naples Botanical Garden or the Naples Zoo.

The Naples Botanical Garden is a truly stunning place to visit with plenty of walking trails and wildlife, plus plenty of tropical plants and beautiful blooms to enjoy. If you opt for the zoo, you’ll find a variety of different animals (giraffes are a big hit!) and it’s a great family friendly activity for the afternoon.

Nearby Marco Island is also a great place to explore if you have the time. There are two beautiful public beaches there. Plus, it’s a beautiful island with plenty of great shelling opportunities if you want to hunt for treasures like sand dollars or starfish.

Explore Fifth Avenue South

Head to the popular Fifth Avenue South , about a mile in distance, that has a great selection of shops, bars, and restaurants to explore. This area is the picture of classy and Old World charm. Plus, it’s Naples’ top shopping spot. 

A popular spot for dinner and drinks in Naples is Bar Tulia 5th Ave. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with an incredible cocktail and pair it with some of the best food, like the Truffle pizza or pasta dishes.

Depending on when you go to dinner, you might have a chance to catch the sunset again. Head to a spot for drinks on the patio to watch the sunset (a popular spot is the Sand Bar in the Ritz Carlton) or head back to the Naples Pier to catch one more incredible sunset here.

After a full day out in the sun and then spending the evening eating incredible food in Naples, it’s time for some much needed rest. Start prepping for Day 4 in Siesta Key as you continue your road trip adventure!

Day 4 – Siesta Key

Good morning, beach lovers! Today, we’re off to stunning Siesta Key—one of Florida’s most breathtaking coastal destinations. 

The ride from Naples to Siesta Key is just under two hours. You’ll take Golden Gate Parkway east and then 75N most of the way till you get to Route 72 or Clark Rd, where you’ll take that west to Siesta Key. You’ll cross over the Stickney Point Bascule Bridge, and then you’ll have arrived! 

Head to the Beach!

Kick off the day with a solid breakfast at Sun Garden Café for mouthwatering eggs benedict, chicken and waffles, omelets, and plenty more.

From here, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your swimsuits on, because it’s time to hit the beach. Siesta Key Beach is often rated the #1 Beach in the USA! And you’ll see why when you’re there. Imagine incredibly soft, white sand and crystal-clear blue turquoise waters. You’ll definitely want to make sure you don’t miss this one, so make sure to get there early for parking! 

This beach is the perfect place to start your day whether it’s a stroll along the shore, swimming in the easy waves or soaking up the sun from the sand. With concession stands, restrooms and all the best kinds of amenities, you can easily spend the morning into the afternoon here. 

Explore Siesta Key Village

Now it’s time to explore the vibrant Siesta Key Village. This charming area is packed with a little bit of everything from boutiques and local shops to cozy cafés just begging to be explored. Hunt for unique treasures or souvenirs. When hunger strikes, Siesta Key Oyster Bar is a great place to stop and offers fresh seafood, sandwiches, and of course, oysters!

If you’re not into shopping, you could also use the afternoon to explore the Point of Rocks—a hidden gem that is absolutely perfect for snorkeling. Head into those clear waters and you’ll be amazed by the colorful marine life and mesmerizing underwater scenery.

Dinner, Drinks & Fun

As the sun begins to set, it’s time to find yourself a cozy spot on the beach (if you didn’t head to the Village yet) to relax and witness the incredible sunset.

After the sunset, or if you’re already in the Village area, you’ll gear up for an evening filled with a casual dinner and live music. Treat yourself to incredible seafood at The Hub Baja Grill or sip on tropical drinks at Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar. And hey, don’t forget to let loose and dance to some awesome live music at the Beach Club.

That’s a wrap for the day in Siesta Key! Sadly, you don’t have enough time to visit one of my other favorites nearby, Anna Maria Island , but you can add that one in for the next time you visit. You’ll be headed to the St. Pete and Tampa area on Day 5 so rest up and get excited to explore the Tampa Bay area!

Day 5 – Tampa & St. Pete

On the fifth day of your Florida road trip, you will explore the vibrant cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg. These two cities are located just a short drive away from each other, making it easy enough to explore both in one day.

From Siesta Key you’ll leave over the Siesta Key North Bridge, take State Highway 758 east until you get to 75N. You’ll be on 75N for a little under an hour and you’ll take exit 8 for the Selmon Expressway that leads to Tampa. The drive is a little over an hour total.

Breakfast & The Riverwalk

Start your day in Tampa by grabbing breakfast at Oxford Exchange, one of my favorite places in Tampa . This is a restaurant, gift store, coffee shop, and much more all in one! It’s a great way to start the day, and it’s about a 10-ish minute walk from the Tampa RiverWalk area. 

After breakfast you’ll head to the Riverwalk, a scenic trail that runs along the Hillsborough River. You can choose to walk this path or rent bikes, whatever you’re feeling up to. There’s lots to see here along the way with plenty of great views. Walk to Armature Works which is along the northern end of the Riverwalk. This is a great place to grab drinks or food before you head to St. Pete.

Explore the St. Pete Area

After exploring Tampa, head to St. Pete, which is known for its beautiful beaches and lively arts scene. Visit the Salvador Dali Museum, which houses the largest collection of Dali’s work outside of Spain. The museum is located in downtown St. Petersburg and is a must-see for art lovers.

You can also walk along the St. Pete Pier, a scenic boardwalk that offers stunning views from the water with plenty of places to eat and drink and explore.

Dinner & Drinks by the Water

In the evening, head about 20 minutes west to the St. Pete Beach area on the main road, Gulf Blvd. This area is known for its restaurants and nightlife. Grab dinner and drinks at Bongos Beach Bar & Grille, a great spot where you can sit outside in the sand with your dinner and watch the sunset on the beach. 

Day 5 has officially wrapped up, and you’ll be on your way to Orlando tomorrow so prepare for another long but exciting day ahead! 

Day 6 – Orlando

Visiting a theme park in Orlando on the sixth day of your Florida road trip is an exciting way to cap off the second to last day of your journey! I highly recommend waking up as early as possible for today since you’ll be trying to cram a lot into one day.

From Tampa to Orlando, you’ll take I-275 N to I-4 E which you’ll be on for most of the way there. The trip should take you about an hour and a half, but that’s without traffic. 

To make the most of your one day in Orlando, consider purchasing an early entry pass or a pass for the shorter lines. I also only recommend choosing only one park to explore as that will be more than enough for the day (and then some!) Make a list of the must-ride or must-see places for the day, since it’ll go by quickly.

Head to a Theme Park

I would suggest grabbing a quick breakfast and coffee at your hotel before you head out (it’s cheaper that way before you head to the parks!). 

From there, I’d recommend heading to and spending the day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, or Islands of Adventure.

Magic Kingdom is probably the most popular of all of the Disney Parks, Universal Studios is a great option if you’re traveling with kids, and Islands of Adventure is a great option for adults (it’s actually my favorite!)

Lunch & Final Rides

In the afternoon, you’ll grab lunch at whichever park you chose for the day. Make sure you’re referencing your list of must-rides or must-sees. Time flies in a theme park with the long lines and constant walking from one place to another. Prioritize any rides you haven’t yet gotten to since you’re in the final stretch of the day.

Dinner nearby the Park

Depending on which park you chose for the day, closing time might be looming around the corner. This is a great time to head to a spot nearby for dinner. Depending on when your flight is the next day, this could actually be your final dinner of the trip!

If you explored Disney, head to Disney Springs and check out Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant or STK Orlando. If you went to Universal, head to CityWalk and try out VIVO Italian Kitchen or Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food.

Both of these spots have great restaurants, shops and plenty of other things to do, so take your time and enjoy your night.

That’s a wrap for Orlando. It went by pretty quickly, didn’t it? It’s time to check into your hotel and rest up for your next and final day of your 1 week road trip in Florida.

Day 7 – Space Coast & Drive back to Miami

On your last day of the road trip, you’ll be visiting the Space Coast and then heading back to Miami. It’ll be a full day, so I recommend waking up early for it. 

From Orlando, you’ll take 408 E to 50 E, and then 405 to cross the NASA Causeway Bridge to the Kennedy Space Center.

Explore the Kennedy Space Center

Start the day early with a quick breakfast before getting on the road. Check out Easy Luck Coffee & Bodega or Moma’s Cafe, both of which you can’t go wrong with!

Your first stop will be the Kennedy Space Center in Titusville, Florida, which is almost an hour away from Orlando by car.

The Space Center opens around 9am, and you’ll want to get there as early as possible to avoid crowds. You’ll spend the morning into the afternoon exploring the Kennedy Space Center . There’s lots to do here so you’ll want to make a list of your top 3 or 4 things to do upfront. A few examples to get you started include the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, the Rocket Garden, and the Apollo 8 firing room. 

Cocoa Beach & Drive Back to Miami

Grab lunch at the Orbit Cafe, which offers a decent variety of options or the Rocket Garden Cafe that overlooks the Rocket Garden.

After a few hours at the Space Center, it’s time to get back on the road and head to nearby Cocoa Beach. It won’t be a long visit, but you can spend some time relaxing on the beach, swimming, or walking around at this world-famous beach. You can even swap out lunch at the Kennedy Space Center for lunch here on the Cocoa Beach Pier (better & cheaper food, in my opinion).

It’s an almost 4 hour trip back to Miami (without traffic) so you’ll want to make sure you leave enough time for the drive back, whether checking into your hotel or heading to the airport! Make sure you factor that into your plans for the afternoon. You unfortunately won’t have a lot of time to make stops on your drive back to Miami.

You’ll take A1A S and FL-404 W to I-95 S, and from there, you’ll be on I-95 S for most of the way back to Miami.

Final Night in Miami or the Airport

Once you’re back in Miami, check into your hotel for the night or head to the rental car drop off and the airport for your flight.

If you’re staying for the night, you might be exhausted from the week and want to grab takeout or order in for dinner at the hotel. Totally understandable. If you’re still up for a dinner out on your last night, I’d recommend checking out the Taco Stand in Wynwood or the Lobster Shack in Miami Beach for a casual dinner.

As you wind down for the night, it’s time to reflect on such an incredible 1 week road trip through Florida. You’ve covered a lot of ground from Miami to the Gulf Coast to Orlando and then back again. You’ve also managed to see some of the best sites in Florida all in one road trip!

More Road Trips Ideas in Florida

Naturally, only having a week for a road trip in Florida isn’t exactly a lot of time. You might have an extra day or so to explore some other areas, and there’s plenty to explore! Here are some additional destinations for your Florida road trip itinerary that we didn’t cover but would make a great stop on your trip:

• St. Augustine
• Daytona Beach
• West Palm Beach
• Anna Maria Island

Florida Road Trip Map 

Need a visual of all of the towns we covered on this trip? Here’s a great map of this epic 1-week Florida road trip itinerary. 

You might have a few lingering questions about your road trip in Florida. Here are some common questions and answers for you to help plan your trip.

How many days are needed for a Florida road trip?

It all depends on what you want to do and see. Some people can be satisfied with a week-long experience visiting cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. Others prefer to take their time and explore different parts of the state, like the Everglades or the Florida Keys. A two week road trip would give you enough time to explore and enjoy several areas of Florida.

How to plan a road trip to Florida?

Planning a road trip in Florida can be both exciting and overwhelming. Start by making a list of destinations that you want to see and then research different routes that work those places in. It’s best to book hotels and any attractions ahead of time as places fill up quickly! Plus, it’ll be helpful to budget the cost of your trip. 

Final Thoughts: Florida Road Trip 1 Week Itinerary

I hope this 1-week Florida road trip itinerary has been helpful in planning your next vacation. From the vibrant cityscape of Miami to the thrilling theme parks of Orlando and everything in between, we’ve covered a lot of ground!

It can be a lot to plan a road trip, but hopefully I’ve done some of the leg work for you with laying out places to visit. Feel free to change up this itinerary if you’re looking for something a little different, or keep it as is if it sounds like a good fit! Oh, and make sure you book your hotels and buy passes for attractions ahead of time!

So grab a map (or your phone, let’s be real) and get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes, exciting experiences, and plenty of memories to be made!

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Florida Road Trip Itinerary – 14 Days in Florida

Florida is known as the Sunshine State for a good reason: In Florida, you can find beautiful beaches in a subtropical climate with around 230 days of sunshine per year. Moreover, Florida is home to many amusement parks, a variety of cultural and historical sights, an enormous diversity of food, and unique natural places with astonishing wildlife. The diversity of this state is immense. We wanted to see as much as possible of Florida in two weeks, so this 2-week Florida itinerary is a guide for two active weeks. But don’t worry, the road trip route starts and ends with a couple of relaxed days, so it’s a good mix. The itinerary covers the highlights of Florida including the top places to visit and the best things to do. However, if you have more time than 14 days in Florida, I definitely recommend staying longer because there’s so much more to see and do in Florida.

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases/bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I’ve personally used and genuinely like.

Best Time to Visit Florida

Florida is a wonderful vacation destination that can be visited all year round depending on your planned activities and personal preferences. Generally, the best time to visit Florida is from April to May. During these months the weather conditions are perfect for any kind of activity, no matter if you want to spend time at the beach, visit theme parks, or join any outdoor tours. We visited Florida in April and the weather was perfect during our entire trip.

How to get around in Florida

The best way to explore Florida is by car. It’s the perfect place for a fun road trip! We rented a car for 10 days for around $175 for our road trip in Florida. You can click here to compare car rental companies in Miami and find the best deal: Miami Car Rental .

🚘 BEST CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking a rental car online, I personally recommend and always use Discover Cars . They search not only for international car rental companies but also for small, local agencies to find the best deal for you . Plus, there are no hidden costs and they offer free cancellation. I always opt for full coverage because of their comepetitive rates!

For the last 4 days of our Florida trip we didn’t need a car because we stayed in Miami. I don’t recommend having a rental car in Miami because parking is very expensive and it’s hard to find a free parking spot in the popular areas. Moreover, you can easily explore Miami Beach and South Beach without a car. Other attractions in Miami that are more spread out can also be reached by public transportion or taxi/ride share (like Uber and Lyft).

Are you ready for our ultimate 2-week Florida road trip itinerary?

In the following, you can see a breakdown of our 14-day Florida itinerary . It is also possible to start your trip with exploring Miami for a few days instead of saving it for last.

Day 1: Scenic drive from Miami to the Keys Day 2 – 3: Key West Day 4: The Keys & the Everglades Day 5: The Everglades & Naples Day 6: Fort Myers Beach Day 7: Sarasota & St. Petersberg Day 8 – 9: Orlando Day 10: Fort Lauderdale Day 11 – 14: Miami

Stay connected when traveling to Florida and get your USA eSIM !

Our 14-Day Florida Road Trip Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: scenic drive from miami to the keys.

On the first day of our Florida adventure, we arrived at Miami International Airport and picked up our rental car. From there, we directly drove to the Florida Keys via the U.S. Highway 1. The Keys consist of more than 200 islands and are connected by over 40 bridges . The drive along the Keys is definitely one of the most scenic drives I have ever experienced. The views are truly spectaclular!

We made several stops along the way to take pictures . We also stopped at a great seafood restaurant right by the water to have lunch. The Keys are famous for their seafood , so you definitely have to try it! Finally, we reached our final destination for this day: our motel in Key Colony Beach. We stayed at Key Colony Beach Motel (see pictures below). The motel features a pool and a small, beautiful beach.

For other accommodation options in Key Colony Beach, click here .

Day 2 – Day 3: Key West

From Key Colony Beach we drove south, via the Bahia Honda State Park, to Key West. Key West was definitely one of my favorite places on this road trip. Key West lies at the southern end of U.S. Highway 1 and is famous for being the southernmost city in the continental United States. The city is influenced by a mix of culture with a mainly Caribbean architecture. I really loved the unique charm of the buildings and streets in Key West.

Tourist attractions in Key West include Mallory Square (Best place to watch the sunset! There’s a sunset-watching ritual with live entertainment every evening.), Duval street (main strip with shops and restaurants), Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum , the Southernmost Point of continental U.S.A. (prepare to line up for a photo!) and Dry Tortugas National Park (for snorkeling and visiting Fort Jefferson). If you have enough time, you should definitely do a snorkeling tour in Key West:

• Key West 2-Stop Snorkeling Trip
• Key West Snorkeling & Dolphin Watching Trip
• Key West Island Adventure Eco Tour

Next to sightseeing, we also spent some time at the beach. My favorite beach in Key West was Smathers Beach , which you can see in the picture below. It’s a beautiful and large sandy beach on the southern side of the island. The beach is free to the public.

My highlight of our time in Key West was doing a Sunset Cruise on a vintage sailing ship. It was such a memorable experience to watch the sunset from the water with a glass of wine in one hand and hors d’oeurves in the other. It was as time stood still when watching the sky turn into stunning red tones as the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. I will definitely never forget this experience! This is the sunset sailing cruise we did: Key West 2-Hour Sunset Sail . I can highly recommend it!

Looking for a hotel in Key West? Click here .

Day 4: From the Keys to the Everglades

On day 4, we spent one last morning in the Keys. Afterwards, we started to drive in the direction of the Everglades National Park . We enjoyed the views driving across the bridges of the Keys one more time and soaked in all the beautiful memories we made there.

When we reached the Everglades we felt like being in another country. The landscape dramatically changed into wetlands and forests. It was incredible! The Everglades represent the third-largest national park and the largest tropical wilderness in the US. While driving through the National Park we already saw several alligators . This made us even more excited about our Everglades tour planned for the next day. We stayed at Port of the Islands Everglades Adventure Resort , which is a charming hotel with a large pool to relax.

To search for other accommodation, click here .

Day 5: The Everglades & Naples

We started the day with an unforgettable airboat tour through the Everglades. We decided to book a personalized tour with a small Airboat (with a maximum of 6 passengers) to have a more intimate experience of the Everglades. The tour cost us $85 (for both of us) and covered not only the Grasslands but also the Mangrove jungles. It was such a fun experience! We saw alligators , manatees , and dolphins during the tour. A must-do on your Florida road trip!

💡 Tip: In case you are not directly staying in the Everglades National Park, here are some other great tour options starting closer to Miami/Fort Lauderdale:

• Private 1-Hour Airboat Adventure
• 1-Hour Airboat Night Tour
• Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show (budget-friendly option)

If we had had some more time in the Everglades, I also would have loved to do this Kayak Tour through the Mangroves . Hopefully we can do it during our next Florida visit!

After the airboat tour, we stopped at a walking trail to explore the Everglades on foot. Along the trail we saw many birds and alligators (one was even lying on the trail). It was really great seeing the animals in their natural habitat.

Next stop on this day: Naples . Naples is famous for its golf courses (it’s known as the Golf Capital of the World) and its many exclusive shops . So the first thing we did when arriving in Naples was playing (mini) golf. 😉 Moreover, we explored the city a bit, walked along 5 th Avenue (famous for shopping, restaurants, and arts), and enjoyed the rest of the day at the beach at the iconic Naples Pier . For dinner, we went to Tin City (downtown) where you can find local shops and restaurants right at the waterfront in an authentic setting from the nautical past of Naples. I really liked the atmosphere in Naples and wish we could have stayed longer than just one day.

Looking for a hotel in Naples? Click here .

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Day 6: Fort Myers Beach

From Naples, we drove to Fort Myers Beach to spend a relaxed day at the beach. Fort Myers Beach, not to be confused with the city of Fort Myers, is located on Estero Island . The beach there is about seven miles long and features beautiful white sand and shallow water. We really had a great day in Fort Myers Beach!

To search for accommodation in Fort Myers Beach, click here .

In the evening, we had a wonderful dinner including an amazing sunset view right by the Fishing Pier of Fort Myers Beach. If you have more time in the Fort Myers area, you can do a day trip to Sanibel Island , which is known for its beautiful nature, wildlife, and shelling beaches. We would have loved to go there and will definitely include Sanibel Island in our next Florida road trip.

For accommodation on Sanibel Island, click here .

Day 7: Sarasota & St. Petersburg

On our drive from Fort Myers to St. Petersburg, we stopped in Sarasota to visit Siesta Key Beach which is ranked the no. 1 beach in the United States . After spending half a day at this stunning beach, I can totally understand why it’s ranked the most beautiful beach in the country: Siesta Key Beach has the most sugary white sand and crystal clear blue water. It’s definitely worth a stop – tropical vibes included! In case you decide to stay in Sarasota for the night (instead of just stopping there), you can click here to look for accommodation options in Sarasota.

After relaxing at the beach, we drove to St. Petersburg , which is also referred to as St. Pete or the “ Sunshine City ” (with an average of 361 days of sunshine per year and a record of the most consecutive sunshine days at 768 days!!). I must say St. Petersburg is the city that surprised me the most on our Florida road trip. I immediately fell in love with this city. I especially loved the architecture (which is a mix between old and modern), the restaurants, the art, and the culture of the city. We stayed Downtown close to the Waterfront Arts District (at the Avalon Hotel which is a stylish, modern boutique hotel). It’s a great area to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere.

To search for other hotels in St. Petersburg, click here .

Day 8: From St. Petersburg to Orlando

After spending the morning in St. Petersburg, we drove to Orlando. It was a pretty long drive with a lot of traffic due to the holiday season (we visited around Easter). Therefore, we arrived in Orlando late in the evening and didn’t do any activities on our first day (evening) in Orlando. We went to bed early because we had planned a long and exciting day at Orlando’s theme parks on the next day.

Looking for a hotel in Orlando? Click here .

Day 9: Orlando Universal Studios

A road trip to Florida isn’t complete without visiting one of the famous theme parks. We visited the Universal Studios in Orlando and got a 2 Parks in 1 Day Combo Ticket for “ Universal Studios ” and “ Islands of Adventure ”. You can buy this ticket by clicking here .

Being a big Harry Potter fan, it’s needless to say that my favorite rides were Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and the Hogwarts Express King’s Cross Station + Hogsmeade Station. Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter was a dream come true for me. In the theme park, they rebuild all famous spots from Harry Potter such as Diagon Alley, Hogwarts and, Hogsmeade. I felt like stepping right into the movies! The highlight of the day was the big firework and light show at the castle which was truly magical. If you love Harry Potter as much as Ido, you must visit this place!

From all the other rides at the two theme parks I can also recommend the Jurassic Park River Adventure. Visiting two parks in one day is perfect when you’re staying in Orlando for only one day. However, if you have more time I would recommend staying for two days.

Other popular theme parks, next to Universal Orlando, that you might want to check out, are Walt Disney World Resort and SeaWorld . Click here for Walt Disney World Resort tickets and here for SeaWorld tickets via GetYourGuide.

Day 10: Fort Lauderdale & Miami

We left Orlando early in the morning to drive to Fort Lauderdale. If you have enough time you can make a little detour and stop at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on the way to Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a popular tourist destination and is also known as the “ Venice of America ” because of its many canals. Moreover, it’s famous for the Millionaire’s Row , the waterside mansions of the rich and famous. We explored Las Olas Boulevard, stretching from downtown to Las Olas Beach, where you can find many shops, restaurants, tourist attractions, museums, and art galleries. From Las Olas Beach we walked along the beach promenade to Fort Lauderdale Beach . All in all, we only spent half a day in Fort Lauderdale because we had to return our rental car in Miami in the afternoon.

In case you decide to stay in Fort Lauderdale for the night, you can click here to search for accommodation options.

Day 11 – Day 14: Miami

Welcome to Miami ! Miami was one of my favorite places to visit during our Florida road trip. We stayed in Miami Beach for two days and in Sunny Isles Beach (at Marenas Beach Resort ) for another two days to fully relax after our 2-week Florida road trip.

Miami is known for its endless white sand beaches , so we obviously spent a lot of time at the beach. My favorite beaches were South Beach , Miami Beach , and Sunny Isles Beach .

Make sure to also visit the iconic colorful lifeguard towers stretching along Miami Beach. Each of them is unique and perfect for taking some great pictures!

Another Miami highlight that you shouldn’t miss is a drive down famous Ocean Drive and through the Art Deco Historic District . I felt like being transported back in time seeing all those beautiful, pastel-colored art deco buildings. We rented two bikes for a couple of hours to enjoy those ‘ Miami Beach vibes ’ to the fullest. We cycled the boardwalk all the way down to South Pointe Park and then back to South Beach. It was so much fun!

Miami is also famous for its amazing shopping opportunities. We went shopping in the Collins Avenue/Ocean Drive Shopping district and in the Saw Grass Mills shopping mall. Saw Grass Mills is an outlet shopping mall close to Miami and can be reached with a shuttle bus. You should definitely reserve some space in your suitcase for shopping in Miami!

Other attractions in Miami include the Wynwood Walls (Street Art), Bayfront Park , Bayside Marketplace and Little Havana , among so many other things, which we would have loved to do but, unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to experience everything. A good reason for us to go back to Miami one day! It was definitely not our last visit to the Sunshine State! I will update our itinerary for Florida & Miami after our next visit.

I hope you liked this itinerary for 2 weeks in Florida and that it will be helpful for you if your are planning a trip to Florida soon! If you have any other questions about our Florida road trip, let me know in the comments below!

Our 2-week road trip around Florida definitely belongs to my top 10 road trips we did so far. In case you are looking for other fun road trip itineraries around the world for your next vacation, make sure to check out the travel itineraries below!

• 3-Week South Africa Road Trip Itinerary
• 3-Week Bali Road Trip Itinerary

Like this post? Pin it for later!

Make sure to check out all my North America travel guides .

Ready to explore more bucket list destinations? Dive into our collection of travel guides by destination !

Founder of Simply Madeleine

Madeleine is the storyteller and globetrotter behind Simply Madeleine, a travel blog focusing on bucket list destinations, memorable travel itineraries, and unique travel experiences. She travels the world full-time together with her fiancé. Together they have explored over 25 countries. On this blog, Madeleine shares detailed travel guides of the places they have visited, including the best things to do and the best hotels to stay. Originally from Germany, Madeleine has lived in many different countries around the world and is now based on an island in the Mediterranean Sea. She is a blogger, content creator, beach lover, and passionate photographer.

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East and Southern US , Florida , North America · December 21, 2022

The Perfect One Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Florida is the perfect state for a road trip. There is so much to do with pristine beaches, crystal clear springs, metropolitan cities, amusement parks, Everglades National Park, and so much more! Keep reading to discover the perfect one-week Florida road trip itinerary.

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase or book a reservation through the link provided then we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We really appreciate your support!

One Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Miami

• Check into hotel

Lunch at Havana 1957

Afternoon airboat tour, relax at south beach, dinner in little havana, check into your hotel.

Depending on when your flight lands and when check-in is available, you’ll want to get settled into your hotel.

The Goodtime Hotel is a trendy boutique hotel in Miami Beach that is close to restaurants, shops, and the beach.

The hotel features a pool and the Instagram-worthy Strawberry Moon cafe. Guests will also have access to free bikes and beach chairs.

For a taste of Cuba, head to  Havana 1957  on Espanola Way.

Enjoy Cuban sandwiches and fried sweet plantains in a tastefully decorated space that is reminiscent of 1950s Cuba.

The eastern edge of Everglades National Park is only about a 25-minute drive from downtown Miami.

Here you will find Coopertown Airboats , the first tour operator to take guests on guided airboat tours through the Everglades.

Tours last about 45 minutes as you glide along the “river of grass”.

The tour guides know where the gators like to hang out so your chances of seeing alligators are very high.

You’ll also learn some interesting facts about the Everglades and see other wildlife and plants that are unique to the area.

South Beach is the most iconic beach in Miami and is located only a short distance from the Goodtime Hotel.

After your airboat tour, take some time to relax on the sandy shore, pose for photos with the brightly colored lifeguard stands, and visit the shops at the nearby Espanola Way.

Little Havana is a colorful Cuban neighborhood that boasts a vibrant nightlife.

Check out the shops and stands lining Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) in the heart of Little Havana.

Then stop in at the  Versailles  restaurant for some traditional homemade Latin dishes.

Their signature dish is the Cuban sandwich with yellow rice, beans, and plantains on the side. A few other popular items include empanadas, croquettes, and caramel flan.

For more things to do in Miami, check out our guide How to Spend 48 Hours in Miami .

Day 2: Key Biscayne and drive to Orlando

Breakfast at donut gallery diner.

• Boating at Biscayne Bay
• Lunch at Rusty Pelican

Afternoon at Key Biscayne

Dinner at delray beach, drive to orlando and check into your hotel.

Start your day off in the quiet residential community of Key Biscayne.

Key Biscayne is one of Miami’s barrier islands that can be reached by crossing the Rickenbacker Bridge.

Stop in at the Donut Gallery Diner for their famous “Ted Special” that made Thrillist’s list of the ’50 Things You Need to Eat in Miami Before You Die’.

This small family-owned diner has been a neighborhood favorite for the past 50 years.

Explore Biscayne Bay

After breakfast, rent a boat or take a boat tour to explore Biscayne Bay.

If you’re interested in renting a boat,  Boatsetter  is like the Airbnb of boat rentals and has a variety of boats available to rent.

If you prefer a guided boat tour of the bay, try reserving a spot on a  vintage yacht , or take a  millionaire home tour  for only $30!

You can also take a relaxing sightseeing boat tour or a thrilling speed boat sightseeing tour .

Whether you are renting a boat or taking a tour, you’ll want to check out Star Island. This man-made island is home to celebrities and some of Miami’s wealthiest residents.

Be sure to take a cruise up the Miami River that cuts right through downtown.

Stiltsville is also an interesting place to visit.

It is located at the southern end of the bay where you’ll find a collection of derelict buildings that once housed some of Miami’s hottest social clubs back in the 1930s.

There are also several sandbars in Biscayne Bay that attract throngs of people on the weekends.

Lunch at the Rusty Pelican

The Rusty Pelican is a popular waterfront restaurant. It is conveniently located at the Rickenbacker Marina so you can pop over for lunch after your boat tour.

They serve fresh seafood, including tasty crab cakes, calamari, and fried snapper.

The Rusty Pelican Board is also a great option to sample different foods.

After lunch, spend some time exploring Key Biscayne.

Relax on the white sand beaches at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and take a tour of the Cape Florida Lighthouse.

You can also visit the abandoned ruins of the Crandon Park Zoo, buy local produce and gifts at the farmers market, rent bikes and explore the Bear Cut Preserve, or take a snorkel tour to see a sunken ship at the Half Moon Archaeological Site.

For more information and recommendations, see our guide 4 Fun Things to do in Key Biscayne .

Later in the afternoon, hit the road for the 3 1/2 hour drive to Orlando.

On your way, stop in Delray Beach and grab a bite to eat at Lulu’s Cafe & Cocktails.

This trendy neighborhood cafe is located in the design district of Pineapple Grove.

Try the Steak Sandwich or Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with a fresh salad or bowl.

Delray Beach is a charming beach town that was voted Most Fun Small Town by USA Today in 2012.

If you have more time to spend in the area, check out the shops on Atlantic Avenue or walk along the elevated boardwalk at Wakodahatchee Wetlands and look for alligators.

You can also snorkel through a sunken steamship at Delray Wreck, or play unlimited retro pinball games at the Silverbell Museum.

Drive to Orlando and check into your hotel. If you want to stay by Disney’s Magic Kingdom, I would recommend staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort .

If you want to stay by Universal, consider Universal’s Aventura Hotel .

Both hotels include perks to the parks like early access an hour before the parks open. Universal hotel guests even get complimentary Express Passes.

Day 3: Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

You can’t come to Orlando and NOT visit Disney World! You’ll definitely want to set aside a day to spend at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

You could easily spend an entire week at Disney World, but there’s so much more to see on a seven day Florida road trip so we just planned for one day.

Plan to arrive early for rope drop, and be sure to purchase the Genie + Lightning Lane Passes in order to make the most of your day.

For more help planning your time at Disney, see our guide Magic Kingdom Tips & Tricks .

And if you’re looking for food recommendations in the park, see our guide for the Best Snacks at Disney’s Magic Kingdom .

Day 4: Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando is much bigger and better than the one in Hollywood, so you’ll definitely want to spend at least one day here!

If you want to get the full Harry Potter World experience, you’ll need to purchase a two-park pass to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Islands of Adventure is home to Hogsmeade while Universal Studios is home to Diagon Alley. Guests with a two-park pass can hop aboard the Hogwarts Express to visit both lands.

If you only have one week on your Florida road trip, then it’s possible to do both parks in one day.

However, if you have extra time then it would be ideal to spend two days at Universal so that you’re not rushed.

For more help planning your day, check out our guide Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tips & Tricks .

Day 5: King’s Landing and drive to Gulf Coast

Grab a bite to eat at the world’s largest mcdonald’s, afternoon kayaking at king’s landing, drive to the gulf coast and check into your hotel.

After going hard at amusement parks for two days, you’ll want to sleep in and have a slow morning.

Before heading out of Orlando, stop at Epic McD located at 6875 Sand Lake Rd. Orlando, FL 32819 and grab a bite to eat.

This two-story 19,000 square foot McDonald’s is the largest McDonald’s in the world. It also features a menu that’s different than any other McDonald’s you’ve ever been to.

In addition to the standard burgers and fries, you can also order wood-fired pizza, customized pasta dishes, and even a slice of three-layer chocolate cake!

The Play Place is also bigger and better than your typical McDonald’s. It even includes an extensive arcade area with over 100 games!

After you eat, drive about 25 miles northwest of Orlando to Apopka.

Here you’ll find Rock Springs, one of the most beautiful natural springs in the state.

Rock Springs Run is often rated as the top paddle run in Central Florida and it has even been designated as a National Wild and Scenic River.

King’s Landing is the launch site that gives access to the Rock Springs River. You can either take a guided tour, rent a kayak, or launch your own kayak.

The kayak trip is absolutely beautiful as you follow along the crystalline waters, paddle under tunnels of trees, and stop at the stunning Emerald Cut.

For more details and information see our guide Tips for Kayaking at King’s Landing Florida .

After you finish your kayak trip, hop in the car and head to the Gulf Coast.

The drive across Central Florida to the Gulf Coast takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, so you’ll want to stop and grab a bite to eat along the way before checking into your hotel.

We chose to stay at the Marriott Residence Inn at Treasure Island and I would highly recommend it!

It sits right on the beach and is centrally located to various Gulf Coast destinations.

The beach in front of the hotel is a popular nesting ground for sea turtles. If you’re lucky you may catch the hatchlings emerging from their shells and making their way to the ocean at night.

Just be sure to always keep your distance and never disturb their nests.

Day 6: Clearwater, Honeymoon Island, and Tarpon Springs

Spend the morning at clearwater beach.

Head to Clearwater Beach and start your morning off with a Cinnamon Bun French Toast from Clear Sky Cafe.

Spend some time playing in the waves or sunbathing at this pristine beach.

Walk along Pier 60 to spot dolphins, stop in at Hulk Hogan’s Beach Shop, or visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium which was once home to Winter from  Dolphin Tale.

Many tour operators are also located at the Clear Water Beach Harbor.

Consider taking a dolphin tour on Little Toot , board a Pirate Ship for some swashbuckling fun at sea, or take a leisurely cruise on a catamaran.

For more details and recommendations, see our guide 7 Things to do in Clearwater .

Make a stop at Honeymoon Island

As you head further north, make a stop at Honeymoon Island.

Honeymoon Island State Park is located on a barrier island about 20 minutes north of Clearwater and is considered one of the best state parks in Florida.

The name comes from a businessman that purchased the island in the late 1930s and constructed 50 honeymoon cottages as a destination for newlyweds.

While on the island, be sure to stop by the Rotary Club Centennial Nature Center to see photos of the cottages.

Bike rentals are also available at the Nature Center where visitors can bike along the Osprey Trail. The trail leads through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests in Florida.

You can also take a 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island to the remote Caladesi Island.

The island can only be reached by water and boasts 3.5 miles of white sand beaches and mangroves.

Lunch at Tarpon Springs

The last destination of the day is Tarpon Springs.

Tarpon Springs dates back to the early 1900s when it first became known for its thriving sea sponge industry.

Tarpon Springs also has a strong Greek influence. Sponge divers from Dodecanese Island had experience diving for sponges in the Aegean Sea and migrated to Tarpon Springs looking for more work.

They settled here over a century ago, but you can still find a strong Greek influence in Tarpon Springs today. The cobblestone streets and Greek shops in the historic district are an echo of the past.

Be sure to stop for lunch at Hellas Restaurant and order a gyro for lunch, then pick up a slice of baklava cheesecake from the restaurant bakery.

The sea sponge industry is still thriving in Tarpon Springs as well.

Walk along the sponge docks to see the boats, and pick up some unique souvenirs made of sea sponges. You can also take a boat tour to watch a sea sponge diver in action.

Sunset at the beach

Head back to your hotel at Treasure Island and pick up some pizza at the nearby Britt’s Coal Fire Pizza for dinner.

After dinner, grab some gourmet milkshakes from Shake Shop that is also located just in front of the Marriott Treasure Island hotel.

Spend the evening relaxing on the beach at Treasure Island and enjoying a glorious sunset as the sun sinks into the Gulf.

Day 7: Fort De Soto, Dolphin Tour, Siesta Key

Visit fort de soto park.

In the morning, head out to Fort De Soto Park. This county park is made up of five keys connected by bridges and causeways.

Here you can find the remains of an old Spanish-America War era military bunker located on Mullet Key.

You can even see the remains of Battery Bigelow that collapsed into the gulf during a hurricane in the 1920s

A few other popular attractions at Fort De Soto include visiting the Quartermaster Museum, renting bikes and riding along the 7-mile paved bike path, renting kayaks and exploring the mangroves, fishing from the pier, taking a ferry to Egmont Key, or going tide pooling at North Beach

Go on a dolphin tour

Book an afternoon tour with Dolphin Racer at St. Pete’s Beach, it’s affordable and so fun for the whole family!

For the tour, you’ll hop aboard one of the largest speedboats in the US and enjoy a thrilling ride while the dolphins jump and play in the large wake.

The boat cruises around the bay before heading out into the Gulf and then making its way back to the harbor.

While in the bay, you’ll even get an up-close look at some of the largest oceanfront mansions in Tampa Bay.

We saw so many dolphins while on the tour, and you are guaranteed to see at least one dophin or your next tour is free.

Sunset at Siesta Key Beach

As you make your way back to Miami, stop at Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota to enjoy the sunset.

In 2015, Siesta Key Beach was voted #1 overall on Trip Advisor’s USA Traveler’s Choice for Best Beach.

In 2011 it was also voted Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach.

The long stretch of powdery white sand, warm turquoise water, colorful lifeguard stands, central location, dreamy sunsets, and modern amenities helped this beach to secure the top spot.

The beach is a tourist magnet, but the ample parking and wide sandy beach help accommodate the large crowds.

It’s the perfect spot to enjoy your last sunset in Florida before heading back to Miami.

After the beach, continue on to Miami and snag a hotel close to the airport so you can get a good night’s sleep before your flight home the next day.

And that wraps up our one-week Florida road trip itinerary. I hope this helps you plan your perfect Florida vacation!

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We Created the Perfect 10-Day Florida Road Trip

Ah, the sunshine state. A truly unique place where many different ecosystems thrive, and where it seems like you can find white-sand beaches, gorgeous islands, fantastic seafood, and underground freshwater springs everywhere you look. With booming cities of art and culture Miami, the 1.5-million-acre Everglades wetlands, the famous Florida Keys, and endless State Parks, the best Florida trips are a mix of culture, relaxation, and outdoor activities. That's why Florida road trips are some of the most unique in the entire country.

If you are keen on sunshine, beaches, crystal-clear rivers, hammock hangs between swaying palm trees, and wildlife sightings, this leisurely 10-day Florida road trip is just the one for you to start planning.

This one is for "no-plan" kind of planners who love to take it easy, keep stress levels low, and go with the road-trip flow. Remember, though, that this expedition is not for the faint of heart. We cover most of the state in only 10 days— that's over 1,100 miles round trip! Feel free to do a section of it or pick your favorites along the way and make a version of this itinerary needs. It's packed from start to finish.

Kick Your Florida Trip off in Jacksonville

Art Wager via Getty Images

Your Florida journey begins (and ends) in Jacksonville. You have two options to embark on this trip: you live close enough to drive to the starting point or fly into Jacksonville and rent a car. The first option is obviously the more affordable way to do this, as you save on a rental car and can bring everything you need with you.

You must pack the car with s cooler with prepared snacks and meals, camping gear, and our favorite road trip accessory, your dog! If you opt to fly, quickly check your camping gear and bulky items for easy pick-up upon arrival.

Day 1: Rainbow Springs, Crystal River & St. Petersburg

Rainbow Springs State Park. CampPhoto via Getty Images

Your Florida road trip begins with an easy two-hour drive to Rainbow Springs State Park , which will open up to your an extraordinary world of clear spring water. Rainbow Springs State Park is centered around the headsprings of the Rainbow River, which produces hundreds of millions of gallons of water daily. This family-friendly park is a worldwide tourist attraction that offers so much to do and see, including swimming, picnicking, tubing, camping, and ecological exploration.

A full day of family fun is followed by dinner in Crystal River at either Seafood Seller & Cafe or Wallace's at the Greenhouse . Finally, drive the remaining one and a half hours to St. Petersburg, where you can rest your head after a trips first day. Book your favorite hotel or stay at a cute coastal cottage at the Sea Turtle Bungalows .

Days 2-4: Fort Myers Beach & Camping in the Everglades

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Get ready for an epic day two. Hop in the car and push two hours to our favorite health-centered eatery in Fort Myers Beach, Little Palm . Take in the views, hang on the beach for an hour or two, and begin your two-hour venture to Florida's most incredible National Park, the Everglades.

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This is where you can get ready for first camp of the trip. We suggest making your stay here two nights to truly soak up all this National Park has to offer. Set up camp , make a delicious dinner by the fire, and then experience a great night's rest under the sunshine state's starlit skies.

When you wake, activities for the day include checking out some of the park's fantastic hiking and paddling trails . Rent kayaks and venture the Flamingo routes suitable for all skill levels and ages. Choose as little or as much adventure as you desire before falling asleep with the world's natural sounds wooing you to rest.

RELATED:  Everglades National Park is Home to Incredible Natural Wonders

Day 4: The Scenic Drive to Key West

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Wake up with the sun because today you get to take one of the most scenic drives on one of the best roads in the USA (if you are into turquoise waters, seaside crab shacks, and small towns with coastal charm oozing .

Make your way down this long roadway  over layers of blues and greens you didn't know could be real. If this this were the only section of this Florida road trip, you'd still be satisfied.

We highly recommend stopping anywhere your heart calls you to along this drive, as it has some of the best beaches in North America.

You know you have almost made it to key lime pie heaven when you begin to cross over the Seven Mile Bridge starting near Marathon. Floridians and tourists alike agree that time does not tick when you hang on this iconic island. Book the Mango Hideaway , which features a shaded garden with a private hot tub and a kitchenette for an easy snack and meal prep for an attractive lodging option.

Day 5: What the Heck, Stay Another Night in Key West

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Since you already drove to the southernmost tip of the Atlantic Coast/Gulf of Mexico, you might as well kick back your feet and really relish it!. This day's activities are totally up to you. Schedule a day trip on the water with a sunset boat ride, a snorkeling exploration, or a deep-sea fishing excursion. You also shouldn't visit Key West without stopping by the house of writer Ernest Hemmingway.

End your day with a delicious meal at one of the island's magnificent dining institutions before soaking in your hot tub at the Mango Hideaway.

Day 6: Drive to Miami, See Art and Party

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After your two island days, wake up fully relaxed and sun-kissed to trek back along the Overseas Highway, savoring the incredible views. You will be totally ready to switch to city life. If you are into the nightlife, make reservations at one of the iconic South Beach establishments.

If art is more your scene, visit the Perez Art Museum Phillip or the Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Or you can try an authentic Cubano sandwich and cigar in Little Havana. Spend the night at one of the posh Miami hotels or vacation rentals as you wrap up your whole week on the road.

Day 7: Lake Okeechobee Camp Vibes

After your magic city splurges, wake up and drive just a bit inland to switch things up from the beach to the lake. Lake Okeechobee, that is. Book your stay at the gorgeous, family-owned property called Beautiful Wildlife CBC Farms for your last night camping.

Surrounded by 20 acres of cedar trees, horses, chickens, and more, this peaceful place offers a welcome retreat from the city and beach. Your stay here includes fresh organic eggs and honey. You can join in favorite local activities like biking, fishing, and horseback riding.

Day 8: Lunch in Vero Beach, Stay in Cocoa Beach

Rise and shine— it's time for your second to last day. Make the hour drive to Vero Beach for a charming breakfast seaside. We suggest the Lemon Tree or Grit Scratch Kitchen . Spend a lovely morning riding bikes by the beach before driving one more hour to your second to the final destination of the night, Cocoa Beach.

This famous city offers surfing, the legendary boardwalk, and pier, or take a segway tour to catch sight of manatees and Port Canaveral. Rest your head on the cozy bed at the cutest vacation rental in town .

Day 9: Last Beach Day & Stay in Historic St. Augustine

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While you could spend an entire week in St. Augustine alone, a day and a half will do to scope the highlights and enjoy a nice beach day. Did you know that St. Augustine is the oldest city in the nation? With that comes a vibrant history, culture, and scene to digest.

Art galleries, golf, outdoor recreation, and history-focused attractions are waiting for you. Start your morning with a tour of astonishing Castillo de San Marcos , head to our Burrito Works , grab lunch to-go, and enjoy a beachfront picnic on St. Augustine Beach.

After filling your belly and bagging some rays, visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum for unbeatable views. End your Florida road trip on a luxurious note by staying in one of the private rooms at Villa 1565 , a restored coquina structure featuring Spanish architecture.

This original coquina exterior has an expansive courtyard under the 650-year-old historic live oak tree named "The Old Senato." You will be nice and refreshed to catch your flight or head home to the Jacksonville when you wake up.

An avid adventurer and lover of all things outdoors and travel, Sydney Paschall has explored and discovered as many beautiful places as she can, with extra time spent in Oregon, Colorado, and driving up and down the west coast. Now based in Austin, Sydney focuses her time on writing, social justice, activism, living more mindfully, and staying active to optimize the mind, body, and soul. Instagram: @_sydshine

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The Best Stops Along the Gulf Coast of Florida (Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary)

One of the most iconic road trip experiences you can have in the USA is to hop in your car and explore the best that the west coast of Florida has to offer. From world-class beaches, remote islands, trendy downtowns, lush state parks, mangrove forests and everything in between, this route offers something for everyone.

The overall purview of this route can be defined as a 660 mile stretch of road that starts in Pensacola, way up in the Florida Panhandle, and follows the Gulf coast all the way to Everglades City.

It includes iconic places like Panama City Beach, Crystal River, Tampa, St Petersburg, Sarasota, Fort Myers and so much more.

While it might only take you 9 hours to drive the route straight through, you could spend weeks diving into the best it has to offer. We took 9 days to highlight the best on offer along the St Petersburg to Fort Myers stretch of the drive.

Additionally, this guide will also offer some information on expanding your trip to include the Florida Panhandle, Crystal River, and Everglades City, should you want to add more days to your Florida road trip.

Ultimate West Coast Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Table of Contents

HOW TO USE THIS MAP:  Above you’ll find a map of our highlights in Key West, Florida. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places we mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version.

The map above features all of the things to do, places to stay, and places to eat that are recommended in this guide.

St Petersburg Area

Our west coast Florida road trip started off in St Petersburg , a place that offers a perfect blend of culture, beach, and city life. The bulk of our time was spent digging into the downtown area and enjoying St Pete Beach, rather than traveling further afield.

That said, this area is fascinating and offers a variety of towns that each offer their own flare.

You could spend a week here and only scratch the surface. We’re offering you our highlights as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to venture further afield during your visit.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the St Petersburg area, click here to watch our St Petersburg Instagram stories

St Pete Highlights & Activities

Fort desoto park.

Located not too far south of St Pete Beach is the largest park within Pinnellas County, Fort Desoto. The park spans more than 1,000 acres and offers 5 interconnected islands to explore.

It offers some spectacular beaches, mangroves, wetlands, and wildlife opportunities, among other natural environments to admire.

Most notably, it offers the chance to tour the decommissioned historic Fort Desoto. Constructed in the late 1800s, this fort has played a key strategic role through many conflicts and occupations of the land it sits on.

Be sure to check out the many cannons and wander to the top of the fort where you’ll be awarded with panoramic views over the ocean and Tampa Bay.

Speed Boat Adventures

One of the coolest ways to get out on the water in St Petersburg is by joining a follow the leader style speed boat tour with Speed Boat Adventures .

You’ll get your own speed boat that can seat up to 3 people, meaning you get to be the captain and are in full control of the boat.

You’ll follow a guide who will take you through several bays, under bridges and past dolphins while narrating the trip through speakers installed in each boat.

We had so much fun speeding around, looking at the beaches, wildlife, and areas around Tampa, Clearwater, and St Petersburg. Being in control of your own boat without having to worry about navigating unfamiliar waters makes this a thrilling adventure.

Don Cesar Day Pass

The Don Cesar is the most iconic hotel in St Petersburg and its commanding presence sits right on a spectacular stretch of powdery white sand on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect place to recharge and relax when traveling down the west coast of Florida.

If you’re not staying there it’s possible to purchase a day pass that will give you access to the pool area and beach. You’ll also be able to book spa appointments and enjoy a few other amenities during your visit. The day pass costs $75 per person and is available for purchase online or at the resort.

If you’d like to stay at the Don Cesar during your time in St Pete, consider booking the Life’s Reward Package. This includes a 2-night stay in a Dan-approved luxury suite with complimentary resort fees, complimentary Lionfish Larry valet parking and all of the Pink Palace perks.

You’ll also enjoy a daily $150 food and beverage credit to spoil yourself with coastal cocktails, beachside eats, fine dining, and a $250 recreation credit to treat yourself at the spa or go jet skiing on the Gulf of Mexico. You can book this package directly with the Don Cesar resort here , using the promo code REWARDS.

Bike Around Pass A Grille

Some of the best stretches of beach in St Petersburg can be found around Pass A Grille and one of the best ways to explore them is by bike.

We rented bikes and cruised from the Don Cesar all the way to the end and back one afternoon. This gave us the freedom to stop whenever we wanted without worrying about parking, which can be a headache.

In doing this we were able to see several different places in the area and enjoy the different boardwalks too. Be sure to pack a beach towel so you can spend some time relaxing and playing in the waves too.

The James Museum

The James Museum is one of those museums that you’re not sure you’ll like and then it totally surprises you. We spent 2 hours here because the art is incredible. Not only is the detail unreal, but each piece tells the story of the people it features.

The work in this museum is mesmerizing, telling stories of the Native Americans and how they used the land across North America. Of course, the art also carries you through history, from before colonial times, during, and after, taking you on an emotional journey.

Personally, if you only have time for one museum when you visit St Petersburg, I’d recommend this one, even though there are others in town.

Dali Museum

The Dali Museum is home to the largest collection of artist Salvador Dali’s work outside of Spain. A surrealist known for his technical skill and bizarre images; his work will take you on a bit of a magic carpet ride.

This museum offers large, tall ceiling galleries with ample room to observe and reflect on the pieces that are on display.

During our visit, we also had the opportunity to experience the temporary Van Gogh Alive exhibit. This display brought many of the works of the famed artist to a larger-than-life-size set to music from the era, as well as narrations from Van Gogh’s journals.

St Pete Pier

New to the St Petersburg landscape is the St Pete Pier. A place where people can come together to enjoy the water and culture of this area. One of the things we loved about the pier was that is mainly pedestrian, so you’re not competing for space with vehicles.

Locals utilize the pier for biking, walking, and rollerblading. It offers a few restaurants, a bar, a beach, and numerous grassy parks. We visited the pier in the evening, intent on exploring in the golden light and watching the sun go down.

Not only did we get a spectacular sunset, but we enjoyed watching dolphins swim in the waters right off the pier, too!

Participate in the Gulp Coast Challenge

If you like craft beer (who doesn’t?), then you’ll want to join in on the Gulp Coast Challenge during your visit to the west coast of Florida. Before you start, stop in at any craft brewery or tourism office to pick up your passport.

This book outlines all of the participating breweries and what you can expect to find there. Each offers a unique spin on beer and an opportunity to connect with local brewers. 

We personally enjoyed the varying atmosphere at each brewery we visited, with each one offering its own form of city oasis to enjoy.

Where to Eat in the St Pete Area

• IL Ritorno – This Italian restaurant features homemade pasta and traditional Italian dishes with a seafood flair. Everything we ordered here was delicious and we highly recommend you eat here during your visit to St Petersburg. It is a busy place, so be sure to make reservations.
• The Society Table – Located at the Don Cesar hotel, this poolside café offers a variety of seafood dishes and sandwiches in a relaxed setting.
• Snapper’s Sea Grill – If you’re looking for fresh-caught seafood, then you’ll want to put this place on your list! Affectionately known as the ‘Gem of St. Pete Beach Restaurants’, you really cannot go wrong.
• Bodega – This place offers traditional Cuban dishes in a street setting and it is wildly popular. We suggest ordering the Cuban and a hibiscus soda Fresca.
• Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille – This place is all about the atmosphere as it’s located on the water along St Pete Pier. Serving up some amazing seafood dishes, the signature Yucatan shrimp are to die for, you can order any type of rum-inspired drink, too.

Where to Stay in the St Pete Area

Accommodation options are really endless, from city life spaces to beachside getaways. We opted for a VRBO vacation rental versus a hotel during our stay in St Petersburg and were able to find the perfect balance by staying on St Pete’s Beach. We could walk to the beach and were only a short drive to downtown St Petersburg.

Our vacation rental was a super cute, newly remodeled studio in a complex that offered a great pool and free parking.

Sarasota Area – Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

If you’re looking for a destination with a lot to do but that also offers diversity, Sarasota is a good one. The area offers a rich history paired with stunning beaches and a very upscale vibe.

Getting out of the city affords the chance to discover smaller communities like Venice, where you can search the beaches for shark teeth, or Englewood, where you can enjoy tasty food and a quieter atmosphere.

We loved that we were able to bounce easily between city life and nature here, which gives a fantastic balance for any road trip. Below you’ll find our highlights from 3 days in the area to get you started on your own planning.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Sarasota area, click here to watch our Sarasota Instagram stories

Sarasota Highlights & Activities

The ringling museum.

The first thing we did when we arrived in Sarasota was head straight for the Ringling Museum ! This museum that is dedicated to the history of the circus sits on what was once the massive personal estate of John Ringling.

Give yourself several hours to visit, as the grounds feature the circus museum, personal residence of John Ringling known as the Ca’ d’Zan, a massive art museum, and several acres of lush gardens to explore.

Sunset on Siesta Key

When the sun sets in Sarasota, the place to be is on Siesta Key . It is here that you’ll find miles of gorgeous white sand beaches that set the perfect stage for sunsets that melt into the water.

Sprinkle in some palm trees, colorful lifeguard stations, lapping ocean waves and you have the perfect place to end your day. We recommend getting there early, around 1 hour or more before sunset to ensure that you can find a nice location that is close to the water.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

You don’t have to be a plant aficionado to appreciate all that you can find in the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens . However, you will find yourself in awe at the stunning collection of orchids that it offers. This is the only botanical garden in the world that is dedicated to the display and study of epiphytes.

Being part of the Smithsonian Affiliate Network means this place is popular. If your schedule allows it, head to the gardens in the morning, right when they open. This will give you a chance to stay ahead of the crowds and the heat.

Mangrove Tunnel Kayaking on Lido Key

To put a bit of adventure into your itinerary and get you out on the water, we’d highly recommend that you book a mangrove tunnel kayaking trip with Kayaking SRQ on Lido Key.

We spent 2 hours paddling the calm, protected waters on the Northside of Lido Key where we explored both open water and mangrove forests. The highlight, of course, is being able to paddle along a narrow and shallow channel tunnel within the mangrove trees.

Not only do you get an up-close look at some of the flora and fauna found along the west coast of Florida, but you’ll be led by a local guide that will offer some insight on what you are seeing both in the water and on land.

Search for Shark Teeth on Venice Beach

You cannot take a road trip along Florida’s Gulf coast without stopping in Venice to search for fossilized shark teeth on the beach! Before you head to the waters, start your day by stopping in at Shark Frenzy , a small shop located right in downtown Venice.

Here, you’ll want to rent or purchase a sifter and scoop. To increase your chances of good finds, you’ll need this stuff, trust us. The staff will show you how to use the tools and provide you with some insight on how to find areas that will provide a good opportunity for finding teeth.

Once on the beach, be sure to use sunscreen, wear UPF clothing, and stay hydrated. Looking for shark teeth is addicting, and you’ll find that hours have gone by without you even noticing. It’s easy to get burnt or dehydrated when you’re having so much fun mining teeth from the ocean.

We found more than 50 teeth the day we were in Venice and easily highlight this activity as one of our favorites out of 2 months spent road tripping through Florida.

Sarasota Ghost Tour

If you like to hear tales of ghosts, then we’d recommend you join a ghost tour with Discover Sarasota Tours .

This 90-minute tour cruises around the city sharing all the fables, folklore, and ghost tales that Sarasota has to offer. It also includes complimentary beer or wine before your departure, so get there early!

We thought this tour was really fun as the hostess is very animated and personally connected to some of the stories that are shared about strange encounters in the city. We also liked the history aspect, shedding some light on how Sarasota was established.

Where to Eat in the Sarasota Area

• Duval’s – Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, this restaurant offers high-end seafood dishes with its own twist. Be sure to ask for a table outside to soak in the atmosphere of the city while you dine.
• Blu Kouzina – If you want authentic Greek food, look no further. Eating at this restaurant will transport you to Greece with each bite. Be sure to order a Greek salad, it is to die for!
• Sharky’s on the Pier – Who doesn’t love a beachside restaurant? Tropical drinks and seafood abound with fantastic views of Venice Beach.
• Farlow’s on the Water – This place is a bit of a gem and a total hidden oasis. Located in Englewood, it’s worth the drive from Sarasota. Be sure to ask for a table on the water.

Where to Stay in the Sarasota Area

Location is everything in Sarasota and you’ll have plenty of options from beachside to downtown. We chose to be just outside of the downtown, which was an ideal location for things both in the city and on the islands.

Sticking with our vacation rental theme we opted for another VRBO property and were able to score a super cool studio apartment in a historic Ringling building .

Fort Myers Area – Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

Have you ever jived with a place even though you have never visited? This was Fort Myers for us. We’ve always known, somehow, that we would love this place and we totally did.

Why? Well, Fort Myers is a place that caters to outdoor and nature lovers. You can spend your time on the water, on remote islands, in state parks, hiking along trails, or paddling ancient waterways.

But not only that, it balances all of that with a social beach town and entertaining downtown area. You really can’t go wrong spending your time in the Fort Myers area.

We spent 4 days here, could easily spend a week or more, and are offering our highlights for you below.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Fort Myers area, click here to watch our Fort Myers Instagram stories

Fort Myers Highlights & Activities

Edison and ford winter estates.

The first place we stopped in Fort Myers was the Edison and Ford Winter Estates . Not only is it a lovely estate, but you have the chance to immerse yourself into the lifestyle of the famed inventors.

Thomas Edison purchased the property in 1885, when he decided to start relocating to southwest Florida for the winter. A visit includes the opportunity to tour the grounds, houses, and learn more about the people behind the inventions.

We both found this visit fascinating and insightful; it was an experience that humanized the lightbulb and automobile for us. The property is stunning, including huge gardens that overlook the water. It’s a fantastic place to spend a morning and make sure you don’t miss the museum.

Sunset Wildlife Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Fort Myers is by getting out on the water at sunset. It is at this time that you can see thousands of seabirds flying to the various islands in the area to roost for the night. This makes for good sightings and prime light for photography opportunities.

It’s also a great way to see dolphins, as they frequent the waters close to shore where they hunt for fish.

You have a lot of options for cruises, so choosing one comes down to your preferences. We decided on a pontoon-style boat as it offers more stability and room for photography. This is how we ended up with Adventures in Paradise .

The motorized pontoon offered plenty of space for people that wanted to have drinks and enjoy the view while others focused on photography. 

Jet Ski Dolphin Tour

The morning we spent jet skiing with Wind and Water Sports was some of the most fun we’ve had on the water. Not only did we have the thrill of the jet ski, but this motorized eco-tour allowed us to cover a lot of ground and see a lot of wildlife.

There were times when pods of dolphins not only approached our jet skis but also played behind them while we cruised around. We saw giant rays playing in the water and hundreds of fish and bird species during our tour.

We were also able to access the historical midden area near Lovers Key State Park from the water, which is a challenge to access from land.

Our tour left directly from Fort Myers Beach and lasted 2 hours. David and I shared a jet ski and followed our guide, who had his own jet ski. While we didn’t book a private tour, we got one because nobody else had booked for that morning!

Lovers Key State Park

The 712-acre Lovers Key State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in Florida, offering a wide variety of activities, beaches, trails, and water access. You could easily spend a full day, if not more, exploring all it has to offer. For us, this park was where we were able to exhale and enjoy nature.

If you like to kayak, it’s possible to rent kayaks right in the park and then put in for some paddling on the Great Calusa Blueway. This is a great way to get on the water in a protected area and see Florida’s wildlife up close.

If you have time for nothing else, make a date to be here at sunset. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Florida to walk along the beach and see tall deadwood. Illuminated in the setting sun makes it an otherworldly experience.

Shelling on Sanibel & Captiva

Located just off the coast are the islands of Sanibel and Captiva . If you like to wander the beach looking for ocean treasures, this is the place for you.

With miles and miles of beaches that face the Gulf of Mexico and unique geography that both invites and traps, these islands offer mounds of shells that wash up on its shores every day in the tides.

Of course, you’ll want to get up early to not only beat the crowds but also have a chance for the good finds. Be prepared to pay for parking and bring something to collect shells with. Either a bucket or bag will do fine.

We went early in the morning and drove as far north on Captiva Island as we could. Here we found few people and thousands of shells. As the morning went on, we beach hopped our way back along the Gulf side before heading off to explore other areas of Sanibel Island.

JN Ding Darling Wildlife Drive

If you enjoy spending time in nature and seeing wildlife, as we do, then you’ll want to leave time to visit the 6,400-acre J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge . They offer a one-way drive that allows you to pull off anywhere along the way and observe what you see.

We enjoyed this drive so much we actually did it twice! Both times seeing many species of birds, alligators, and water critters. For the best light and wildlife spotting, go when they first open in the morning or later in the evening, when it’s cooler and the animals are on the move.

Something worth noting, if you have an America the Beautiful Annual Pass, it lets you into this reserve like it would any of the national parks in the USA.

Day Trip to Cayo Costa

Our last morning in Fort Myers we wanted to get a bit off-grid, so we booked a day trip out to Cayo Costa , a place that rests 24 miles from Fort Myers and is only accessible by boat. What an adventure that turned out to be.

Not only was our boat the only one there, but we got to experience the thrill of riding out a Florida storm on a remote island. Shortly after we arrived a decent storm system rolled in that brought high winds and completely soaked us.

Lucky for us, it was fleeting, and we spent the remainder of our time searching for large shells and sand dollars in large waves right off the beach. It was both exhausting and rewarding, we actually found a sand dollar!

Leaving the beaches of Cayo Costa we made our way to North Captiva, where we enjoyed lunch at a small beachfront restaurant before making our way back to Fort Myers.

Day Trip to Everglades

If you find yourself with an extra day in Fort Myers, you may want to consider booking a day trip to Everglades National Park and Everglades City. Personally, this area deserves its own set of 2 to 3 days, but if you don’t have that a day trip can be a great way to dip your toes in.

There is a variety of day trips available from Fort Myers that will offer you transportation and a selection of activities. The main ones offer kayaking, a swamp buggy experience, and/or an airboat ride.

Key West Express

Additionally, if you’re in Fort Myers and have the desire to visit the Florida Keys, it is possible to book transport there on the Key West Express . This catamaran-type ferry will have you in Key West in as little as 3.5 hours.

You will then have the option to stay a few hours before returning, making it a day trip, or you can plan ahead and stay a few days in Key West before returning again to Fort Myers. This is a great option if you want to visit the West Coast of Florida and see a bit of Key West too.

Where to Eat in the Fort Myers Area

• Pinchers – while you can find this locally owned seafood chain in a couple of different Fort Myers locations, we walked over to the location next to the Edison & Ford Museum in the downtown area. They are located on the water, so ask for a patio seat and order the seafood tower!
• Snug Harbor – this little place is located in the marina area of Fort Myers Beach, across the street from the more commercial Nervous Nellie’s. They offer a lot of outdoor seating and some creative dishes with a waterfront view.
• Mr. Tequila – if you’re craving Mexican food in Fort Myers Beach, this is the place to go! They serve authentic Mexican dishes, have a great outdoor patio, and endless chips with salsa.
• Salty Crab – for seafood on the beach, this place is a great option. We loved sitting at the picnic tables with our feet in the sand. They have a great menu, order the fish tacos! And an extensive drink menu to go with it.
• Doc Ford’s Sanibel – after enjoying Doc Ford’s in St Petersburg, we had to try it again in Sanibel and it was just as excellent the second time around. Again, order the Yucatan Shrimp , it’s an amazing dish. We also loved the Cuban sandwich and Caprese salad.

Where to Stay in the Fort Myers Area

If you want to be in the center of it all and within walking distance of things, then we would highly recommend you stay in Fort Meyers Beach. We were able to find a nice vacation rental right on the beach that offered free parking in an onsite lot.

Admittedly, it was loud in the evenings and into the night with people partying and loud music. If you’re a light sleeper, you might want to look at a different area.

It also possible to stay over on Sanibel, the mainland or a bit further down from the main area where all the bars and restaurants are. Depending on how you like to travel, this might be a better choice.

Expanding Your Florida West Coast Road Trip

The places highlighted above make up a small section of the wider west coast road trip route and if you find yourself with more time, you may want to expand on that to include more fabulous Florida vacation destinations.

We’ve personally explored more of the west coast and wanted to highlight a few areas that we really enjoyed, especially if you want to get off the beach and explore more of Florida’s natural side.

Everglades City

If you continue heading south beyond Fort Myers, you’ll pass through Naples and eventually end in the small town of Everglades City. This is the end of the road on the west coast and your only option here is to turn back around and head north or head east towards the Atlantic Ocean.

But don’t let that deter you. We absolutely adored Everglades City, it’s funky and the official gateway to the west side of Everglades National Park. That leaves no shortage of things to do when you visit.

We’d recommend spending 2 to 3 days here, if you can, taking the time for a boat tour around the 10,000 islands, a kayak trip to see alligators up close, an airboat ride, and a swamp buggy adventure into the Big Cyprus National Preserve.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to Everglades City, click here to watch our Everglades City Instagram stories

Florida Panhandle

If you want to start at the furthest north part of this drive before continuing south, you’ll find yourself in the Florida Panhandle.

Starting in Pensacola, this section of the drive also traverses through Destin, Fort Walton, Panama City Beach , and the Forgotten Coast of Florida before taking a sharp turn south.

This area has spectacular beaches and crystal-clear water, but it also offers a completely different vibe than what you’ll find in the beach towns in south Florida. That alone makes it worth exploring, in our opinion.

Crystal River

Between the Forgotten Coast and Tampa is one of the most spectacular natural areas in Florida and the jewel of this area is Crystal River .

It is here that hundreds of manatees seek protection in the warm spring waters during the cold winter weather. It’s the only place in North America that you can swim with manatees .

But that’s not all this area offers, and you’ll find a different side to Florida here. Beautiful springs abound, rich indigenous history and plenty of wildlife make it both interesting and enjoyable.

What you won’t find are beaches. But instead, miles of undisturbed natural coastline offer thick mangrove forests and the ecosystems that come with them.

We fell in love with this area on our last visit and to date, is one of our favorite places in Florida. If you can add only a couple of days to your itinerary, add Crystal River. It fits in well as an addition to the St Petersburg to Fort Myers route we highlighted above.

If you’d like to see video from our visit to the Crystal River area, click here to watch our Crystal River Instagram stories

You might also like:

• Essential Packing List for Florida
• How to Plan A Road Trip in 10 Easy Steps
• Ultimate USA Travel Guide
• 38 Beach Essentials: The Ultimate Beach Packing List
• Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip Planner

Our Florida West Coast road trip was done in partnership with VISIT FLORIDA . All opinions, recommendations, and stories are 100% our own, as always.

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “The Best Stops Along the Gulf Coast of Florida (Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary)”

NOTHING from Ft. Myers to Everglades City? Really??!!

I mean, you could go to Naples and Marco Island, but we opted not to. So rather than write about something we haven’t done, we opted to omit it. Cheers!

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7 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Florida Before You Die

Victoria is a native Floridian and writer for OIYS. She also makes art, jewelry, and other things for her shop, The Gilded Gator .

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Looking for Florida road trip ideas ? You’ve come to the right place! The Sunshine State is known for being one of the best states in the country for road trips. Between the sunshine, the warm weather, and the plethora of things to do and see, there is never a dull moment in Florida. We love putting together unforgettable road trips in Florida, for residents and visitors alike, with everything from the best natural wonders to haunted attractions. With no ice or snow to slow us down, we don’t have to wait until summer to try one of these adventures, so start planning your next road trip to these must-visit attractions in Florida. Once you’ve decided which Florida road trip to begin with, we’ve made the prep work super easy with our ultimate road trip packing list !

Click on the title to go to the original article, and click on the link (where it says “Google Maps”) below each map image to open an interactive version in a new window.

1. ​​ The Ultimate North Florida Road Trip

2. ​​ The Ultimate Central Florida Road Trip

3. ​​ The Ultimate Terrifying Florida Road Trip

4. ​​ Florida’s Most Picturesque Small Towns Road Trip

Related Stories

This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across Florida Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset

The State Exploration Challenge - Essential Florida Stops For Any Roadtrip

10 Incredible Hidden Gems In Florida You’ll Want To Discover This Year

5. ​​ The Florida Natural Wonders Road Trip

6. ​​ The Florida Lighthouse Road Trip

7. ​ 10 Amazing Places In Florida You Can Go On One Tank Of Gas

Are you excited to add these Florida road trip ideas to your bucket list? Have you taken any of these road trips before? We would love to hear about your adventures in the comment section!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Florida road trip ideas.

What are the best day trips in Florida?

Sometimes all you have is 24 hours to explore, and a road trip seems like it’ll take a weekend. In these circumstances, we recommend taking day trips in Florida instead! There are so many different ways to see the state without needing to make a whole trip out of it. Some ideas for day trips include:

• Redland in Miami
• Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales
• Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Fort White
• Rainbow Springs State in Dunnellon

Depending on where you're located in Florida, you can try any of these 11 best day trip ideas to create a memorable afternoon. 

What are some little-known attractions in Florida?

Sometimes those must-visit attractions in Florida are ones that many people don’t even know exist! Forget the touristy spots for a second and consider checking out those little-known attractions first. You can begin by checking out:

• Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach
• Falling Waters State Park in Chipley
• Blowing Rocks Reserve in Hobe Sound

Check out this article for more information about these and other   secret places in Florida that are completely awe-inspiring . You can also tackle our hidden gems road trip in Florida if you want more bang for your buck in terms of adventure.

What are the most unique things to do in Florida?

With so many different things to do in Florida, it’s hard to narrow down the attractions that will be most rewarding. For some, this involves choosing the most unique things to do in Florida - things that you really won’t find anywhere else in the country. Check out these examples:

• Whimzeyland, also known as The Bowling Ball House, is an artists’ paradise in Safety Harbor.
• Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales features a 205-foot singing tower!
• Coral Castle in Homestead was all created by one man.
• History comes alive in St. Augustine.

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• Autour du voyage

ROAD TRIP de 10 jours en FLORIDE : mon guide complet

Pour mon troisième voyage aux États-Unis (après New York en 2015 et les États de l’Ouest en 2018), j’ai décidé d’explorer la célèbre Floride .

Niché dans le sud-est du pays , le « Sunshine State » est plutôt surprenant : entre la très kitsch Miami , les terres sauvages des Everglades , ou encore les incontournables parcs d’attractions d’Orlando … Il y a de quoi faire ! Et pourtant, je n’étais pas si emballée que ça à l’idée d’explorer cette partie du pays auparavant car j’ai lu tout un tas de choses pas très positives concernant Miami et ses alentours… Grâce à un billet d’avion bon marché et une météo bien plus agréable que chez nous, mon compagnon et moi-même avons finalement décidé de nous envoler vers cette nouvelle destination. Et vous vous en doutez… Ce fut génial. Nous avons adoré ce road trip !

Vous trouverez ici  un guide complet  qui, je l’espère, vous aidera dans  l'organisation de   votre futur voyage en Floride . N’hésitez pas à me poser vos questions en commentaire à la fin de l’article. Je vous répondrai avec grand plaisir.

Bonne lecture !

Quand partir en Floride ?

La Floride oscille entre un climat tropical et subtropical toute l’année. C’est une destination plutôt prisée en hiver car il y fait beau et chaud . L’été , en revanche, les températures augmentent et c’est la période des pluies et des ouragans , ce qui peut être beaucoup moins agréable.

Côté tourisme , la haute saison s’étend de décembre à mai environ. Le climat doux et sec attire les touristes, les prix sont en hausse . La basse saison s'étend par conséquent de juin à novembre . Il commence à faire très chaud et les prix baissent .

Il est malgré tout difficile de choisir une bonne période pour partir en Floride , le soleil y étant présent toute l’année et les températures descendant rarement en dessous de 20°C. Partir durant l'hiver semble être le meilleur choix mais vous croiserez beaucoup de monde et vous dépenserez davantage . À l'inverse, partir durant l'été peut être intéressant pour plus de tranquillité et moins de dépenses mais vous risqueriez de tomber sur un ouragan. À vous de faire votre choix en fonction de vos préférences !

• Haute saison : de décembre à mai environ. Prix élevés, climat doux et sec très agréable.
• Basse saison : de juin à novembre environ. Prix en baisse, climat chaud et humide avec risque d’ouragan.
• Notre choix : février fut un mois idéal concernant la météo mais les prix étaient assez élevés. On ne regrette pas cependant car nous avons pu faire tout ce que nous souhaitions.

Key West et le parc national des Everglades

Quelles sont les formalités ?

Pour les ressortissants français , pas besoin de visa pour séjourner en Floride comme dans le reste des États-Unis (dans la limite de 90 jours ). En revanche, vous devez absolument vous procurer un ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). C’est un formulaire obligatoire à remplir sur le site officiel du gouvernement coûtant environ 21 $ et valable pendant 2 ans . Il permet aux autorités de vérifier que vous êtes bien en droit de voyager sur le sol américain. Évidemment, le passeport est lui aussi obligatoire et vous sera demandé pour remplir votre ESTA .

Côté assurance , j’ai une carte Visa Premier (semblable à la Mastercard Gold) qui comprend déjà une bonne couverture (jusqu’à 155 000 € pour les frais médicaux à l’étranger). En revanche, la Visa Classique comme la Mastercard Classique ne possèdent pas d’aussi bonnes garanties (jusqu’à 12 000 € pour les frais médicaux). Vous pouvez éventuellement souscrire à  une assurance indépendante  si vous ne possédez pas de Visa Premier ou de Mastercard Gold. À noter que les assurances Visa et Mastercard ne prennent pas en charge les vols de bagages ou d’effets personnels , contrairement aux assurances indépendantes.

• Passeport et ESTA (obligatoire) : pour l’ESTA, rendez-vous sur le site du gouvernement américain (prenez au moins 15 jours d’avance).
• Assurance voyage (facultatif) : Chapka Assurance, AVI International, ACS AMI…

Quel itinéraire choisir ?

Voici  les différentes étapes de notre road trip en Floride . Le choix d’un itinéraire est  personnel . Celui que nous avons choisi est adapté à  nos goûts et nos envies .

Nous découpons ce road trip en  5 grandes étapes  :

• À ne pas manquer selon moi : Miami, pour ses plages, son architecture et sa vie nocturne ; le parc national des Everglades, pour une virée en pleine nature au milieu des alligators ; Orlando, pour vivre de vrais instants de fun !
• Durée conseillée pour un road trip : 10 ou 15 jours minimum.

Quel budget prévoir ?

Une fois l’itinéraire choisi , il est plus facile d’établir un budget précis pour l’ensemble du voyage.

Voici  un récapitulatif des dépenses  effectuées lors de notre voyage en Floride .  Ce budget reste approximatif  car il peut varier selon plusieurs critères : nombre de voyageurs, type de voyageurs, période de voyage, type de logement souhaité…

Comptez environ 1 300 € à 1 500 € de dépenses par personne pour 10 jours . * budget établi pour un voyage en février 2020

En détail :

Vous l’aurez compris, la Floride n’est pas l’État le moins cher des États-Unis . Il vous faudra prévoir  un budget conséquent  si vous souhaitez en profiter un maximum.

Voici  quelques conseils pour vous aider à réduire vos dépenses  lors d'un voyage en Floride :

• Réservez vos vols aller-retour à destination de Miami  : vous payerez moins cher que des vols à destination d'Orlando ou de Key West. Pour réserver mes billets d'avion, j'utilise Skyscanner , mon comparateur favori de vols qui propose les meilleurs prix avec de bons outils d'analyse.
• Réservez vos hébergements sur Booking , le leader mondial de la réservation d’hébergement en ligne : vous y trouverez les meilleures offres aux meilleurs prix. Et n'hésitez pas à vous inscrire gratuitement au programme de fidélisation Genius qui propose des réductions et des récompenses très intéressantes.
• Sélectionnez vos activités et excursions à l’avance  : vous pourrez profiter de tarifs avantageux en réservant vos activités sur  Get Your Guide , la plateforme que j'utilise pour programmer mes expériences de voyage.
• Essayez d’alterner vos choix de restauration : fast-food, restaurant, cuisine maison… Vous dépenserez moins en cuisinant vous-même. Il est bien plus avantageux de faire ses propres courses que d'aller manger à l'extérieur aux États-Unis !

Ayant organisé notre voyage avec seulement un mois d'avance , je pense que nous aurions pu dépenser moins si nous nous y étions pris un tout petit peu plus tôt.

• Prenez un peu d'avance sur l’organisation de votre voyage.
• Comptez une moyenne de 1 500 € par personne pour 10 jours de voyage.

Comment conduire ?

Nous avons loué notre voiture à Miami Beach dans l'agence internationale Sixt , un véhicule basique qui s’est finalement transformé en gros bolide sportif (une Chrysler 300 S). Et nous avons été surclassés à notre grande surprise !

La conduite est une véritable institution aux États-Unis . Posséder une belle voiture est un symbole de réussite et de richesse. Tout est construit, organisé et optimisé pour la voiture. Faire un road trip sur les terres américaines représente plus qu'une aventure , un véritable rêve !

Quelques petites choses à savoir  avant de louer une voiture aux États-Unis :

• 21 ans est l’âge minimum requis pour louer une voiture dans presque toutes les agences de location.
• Si vous avez entre 21 et 25 ans , une taxe jeune conducteur peut vous être demandée.
• N’oubliez pas les documents nécessaires pour louer une voiture aux États-Unis qui sont les suivants : votre permis de conduire , une carte de crédit aux nom et prénom du conducteur principal.
• Le permis international n’est pas obligatoire mais recommandé pour faciliter les démarches administratives liées à la location.

Mes conseils concernant la location en elle-même sont les suivants :

• Choisissez une compagnie de location internationale connue pour éviter toute mauvaise surprise. Nous sommes ravis d'avoir choisi Sixt pour nous accompagner dans ce road trip : ils ont été exemplaires du début à la fin (en plus du surclassement) !
• La LI (Liability Insurance) ou TPL (Third Party Liability) : responsabilité civile automobile. Cette assurance permet de couvrir les dommages causés à des tiers. Le montant couvert est souvent assez faible.
• La LIS (Liability Insurance Supplement) ou SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance) : responsabilité civile complémentaire. C’est une couverture plus large (jusqu’à 1 000 000 $ ou plus).
• La CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) ou DEW (Deductible Extended Waiver) ou LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) : cette assurance couvre les dommages causés au véhicule (vandalisme, collision ou vol).

Par précaution , nous essayons de souscrire à toutes les assurances proposées par l'agence de location pour nous éviter un quelconque problème (quand notre budget nous le permet). Cette fois-ci, toutes les assurances indispensables étaient déjà comprises dans le contrat de base. Nous n'avons donc pas payé de supplément pour une assurance complémentaire.

La voiture de location, ses assurances et ses extras (rien concernant ces derniers) nous ont coûtés 201 € (prix pour deux).

Autres infos utiles concernant la conduite aux États-Unis :

• 1 mile = 1,6 km . Mais ne vous inquiétez pas, on s’y fait très vite.
• Le kilométrage est très souvent illimité et compris dans le contrat de location.
• Les boîtes de vitesses des voitures sont toutes automatiques .
• Le prix du carburant est moins cher qu’en France.
• Les contrôles routiers sont assez fréquents, respectez donc bien les limitations .

En ce qui concerne les péages , sachez qu’il n'existe que très peu de routes payantes en Floride . Nous avons préféré les éviter (pensez à configurer votre GPS sur « éviter les routes à péages ») sachant qu’on ne gagnait que 5 à 10 minutes sur notre trajet. Si vous souhaitez tout de même prendre ces routes , signalez le à votre agence de location . Elle vous proposera un pass (en extra) équivalent au télépéage de chez nous.

Tout comme la location, la conduite aux États-Unis n’est pas difficile . On s’y fait très vite et c’est même plus simple qu’en Europe : les ronds-points n’existent pas, les routes sont longues et larges, la priorité à droite est très rare… Une petite particularité cependant : les feux américains sont de l’autre côté des intersections ! Il faut donc regarder le feu en face, très souvent en hauteur. Il est également autorisé de tourner à droite au feu rouge (sauf si un panneau indique le contraire).

Sur 10 jours , nous avons parcouru 2 000 kilomètres .

• Choisissez une agence de location internationale : Sixt, Hertz...
• Souscrivez à toutes les assurances (si c'est possible).
• Sur la route : boîte de vitesse automatique, distance en miles, carburant moins cher, très peu de péages, conduite simple.

Non non ça ne frime pas du tout

Et dans sa valise ?

Inutile de prévoir des vestes et des pantalons. En Floride, les températures descendent rarement en dessous de 20°C . Prévoyez plutôt T-shirts , shorts , débardeurs , maillots de bain … Avec un imperméable si vous partez en saison des pluies. Côté chaussures, pensez à vos baskets de randonnée si vous souhaitez vous balader dans les Everglades. Autrement, les sandales et les tongs seront vos meilleures amies.

Ne surchargez pas votre valise , vous pouvez laver votre linge sur place. Les auberges et les Airbnb ont généralement une machine à laver à disposition et les laveries ne manquent pas dans les rues. Nous avons pu faire plusieurs machines sans problème dans les grandes villes.

N’oubliez pas les indispensables :

• Une copie pour chaque document valide (passeport, ESTA, permis de conduire…). En cas de perte ou de vol, ces copies vous sauveront la vie !
• Un adaptateur pour la prise électrique (prise de type A/B). Nous utilisons celui de la marque Skross pour nos voyages.
• Quelques médicaments basiques et produits parapharmaceutiques  (dans la limite des 100 ml par produit si vous prenez l’avion avec un bagage cabine seulement).
• Une batterie externe portable  pour vos appareils électroniques. Nous utilisons celle de la marque Anker pour nos voyages.
• Une gourde  pour éviter d’acheter des bouteilles en plastique. L’eau est potable dans tout le pays.
• Une crème solaire et un chapeau  pour ne pas cramer. L’indice UV en Floride est un peu plus élevé qu'en France.
• Un anti-moustique , surtout si vous partez pendant la saison des pluies.
• Quelques dollars mais pas trop. Les cartes bancaires sont acceptées partout.

Depuis 2019 , les USA et beaucoup d'autres pays ont décidé d’interdire le transport en soute de tout appareil disposant d’une batterie lithium-ion (ordinateur, tablette, smartphone, batterie portable…). Ces appareils doivent être impérativement transportés avec vous dans votre bagage à main ou cabine et chargés à bloc lors de votre embarquement à l’aéroport. En cas d’inspection au contrôle de sécurité, si votre appareil est déchargé ou défectueux , vous pourriez être amenés à vous faire refuser l'embarquement .

• Tenues légères avec un imper pour se protéger des pluies si vous partez en saison humide.
• Appareils électroniques chargés à bloc lors de votre embarquement à l'aéroport (les contrôles pour les vols vers les USA sont fréquents).

Les « pour » et « contre » d’un voyage en Floride

Voici pour vous mes « pour » et « contre » d’un voyage en Floride. Ils vous aideront peut-être à y voir un peu plus clair sur cette destination en plein essor aujourd'hui.

Les « pour »

• Des paysages à couper le souffle . La Floride est réputée pour ses paysages de rêve, notamment du côté des Keys, en mer des Caraïbes. Ce n’est pas pour rien que beaucoup d’Américains passent leur lune de miel ou leur retraite dans cet État du pays.
• Une ambiance de folie . Si vous aimez vous amuser et faire la fête, la Floride saura vous combler. Entre la vie nocturne de Miami et les parcs d’Orlando, impossible de s’ennuyer !
• Une facilité d’organisation . Il est très simple d’organiser un voyage en Floride, les États-Unis étant un pays développé et similaire à la France. Vous n’aurez pas de mal à trouver les bonnes informations, à faire vos réservations et à combler vos folles envies.

Les « contre »

• Une destination de plus en plus touristique . Malheureusement, la Floride attire chaque année de plus en plus de voyageurs du monde entier. Ses bonnes températures et sa facilité d’accès font d’elle l’une des destinations préférées des Américains également.
• Des prix parfois très élevés . Depuis la fin du Covid et l’inflation mondiale, voyager aux États-Unis revient de plus en plus cher. Il faudra prévoir un budget conséquent si vous souhaitez profiter pleinement de votre séjour.
• Une absence de dépaysement . Bien que la Floride soit un État exotique, la vie n’y est pas tellement différente de chez nous. On n’a pas toujours l’impression d’être loin de l’Europe malgré les nombreuses heures d’avion.

Ces ressentis reflètent notre expérience et nous appartiennent . Nous avons vraiment adoré notre road trip en Floride et nous y reviendrons très certainement un jour.

Sanibel et Kennedy Space Center

Mes derniers conseils

Dernières petites infos en vrac  pour une préparation optimale :

Comme dans tout road trip,  prenez votre temps   et   vivez l'instant présent . La Floride est un État à explorer avec une certaine zénitude : tout le monde y est relax . Admirez, profitez, voyagez !

Ce voyage en Floride fut l'un de nos meilleurs ! Nous sommes très contents d'avoir découvert cet État des États-Unis, qui à la base, ne nous attirait pas plus que ça.

N’hésitez pas à me poser vos questions si besoin. Je serais ravie de vous aider dans votre planification.

Si vous achetez via des liens sur mon blog, je peux toucher une petite commission d’affiliation. Ainsi, le site est soutenu à 100 % par les lecteurs et ne contient pas de publicité. Merci pour votre soutien !

Article mis à jour le 31 mars 2024

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En route vers votre prochaine aventure

Road trip en floride, tous mes conseils pour organiser votre road trip en floride.

Située dans le sud-est des États-Unis, la Floride est un état réputé pour son climat et ses plages, avec plus de 1 300 km de littoral ! Mais c’est une destination qui offre plus que ça : vous y retrouverez une variété de paysages et d’activités vraiment étonnante. En plus de sa flore et de sa faune d’une richesse inouïe, elle abrite de grandes villes passionnantes où il y a toujours quelque chose à faire et où vous pourrez découvrir un mélange culturel pratiquement unique au monde. En bref, il s’agit vraiment d’une destination qui déborde d’intérêt, qui est à n’en pas douter l’un des meilleurs endroits pour faire un road trip aux États-Unis ! Mais prendre la route dans un pays étranger n’est pas une expérience qui s’improvise. Voyage, itinéraire, formalités, conseils et informations pratiques, pour vous aider à bien préparer votre voyage, dans ce billet je vous propose un véritable condensé de tout ce dont vous aurez besoin pour votre road trip en Floride . Et si vous ne savez pas encore où dormir en Floride  durant votre séjour, j'ai un article dédié au sujet !

L’itinéraire pour un road trip en Floride

Pour vraiment profiter de votre séjour sur les routes de Floride, il faudra prévoir  au minimum 10 jours , mais 15 jours ne seront pas de trop. Il a tant de belles choses à découvrir aux quatre coins de l’état que votre programme sera forcément chargé.

Voici les différentes étapes que je vous propose pour ce  road trip de 10 jours en Floride  :

Les Everglades

Sanibel island, fort lauderdale.

• Retour à Miami

Ce circuit forme donc une boucle qui débute et se termine à  Miami . C’est la principale agglomération de Floride, et la ville qui abrite le plus grand aéroport international de l’état, c’est donc le point de départ naturel pour beaucoup de personnes qui voyagent en Floride.

Mais bien sûr, cet itinéraire est conçu pour se modifier facilement. À mon avis, 4 étapes sont vraiment incontournables : Miami ,  les Keys ,  Les Everglades  et  Orlando . Vous pourrez ajouter ou retirer une ou plusieurs des autres étapes en fonction de vos envies et de votre temps, et bien sûr débuter et finir ce road trip depuis un autre endroit. Orlando et Fort Lauderdale notamment, disposent également d’un aéroport international. 

votre road trip en Floride en un clin d'œil 👀

🚘 Location de voitures

La meilleure plateforme pour louer une voiture : RentalCars

🏄‍♀️ Activités incontournables

Visite des Everglades en hydroglisseur

Le billet multi-parcs Universal Studios Orlando

Passer une journée aux Bahamas depuis Fort Lauderdale

💤 Meilleurs hébergements

Bel hôtel confortable avec piscine à Miami : The Vagabond Hotel

Logement abordable à Martahon dans les Keys : Sea Dell Motel

Hôtel 3* avec piscine à Orlando : Fairfield by Marriott Inn

Miami , ou « Magic City », et bien évidemment une étape tout à fait incontournable pendant un séjour en Floride, qu’il s’agisse d’un road trip ou d’un voyage plus classique. Je vous recommande d’ailleurs de consacrer au moins deux jours à la découverte de cette ville étonnante et cosmopolite, qui fait clairement partie des plus attractives de tout le pays. D’ailleurs, même 3 ou 4 jours ne suffiraient vraiment pas à en faire le tour. À vous de choisir si vous allez passer plusieurs jours de suite sur place ou visiter la ville en deux fois, au début et à la fin de votre voyage.

Si vous ne savez pas encore que faire à Miami , ne manquez pas la découverte de Miami Beach , une petite île reliée au continent par plusieurs ponts, où se trouvent les plages les plus emblématiques comme  South Beach , et plusieurs des grands sites d’intérêt de Miami comme le fameux  quartier Art Deco . Vous pourrez découvrir des quartiers typiques, aux ambiances variées comme notamment le quartier cubain de Little Havana , le quartier d’affaires Miami Downtown,  Design District  ou encore  Wynwood , l’un des endroits les plus renommés du monde pour le street art. 

Bien d’autres attractions vous attendent à Miami, vous pourrez notamment :

• Apprécier une  gastronomie  délicieuse et variée dans de nombreux restaurants partout en ville
• Visiter des  musées  marquants comme le Miami Science Museum, le MoCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), les galeries d’art de Wynwood ou encore le Miami Children’s Museum
• Assister à un  match de NBA des Miami Heat , une des meilleures équipes de NBA de ces dernières années, dans la American Airlines Arena
• Faire du  shopping  dans d’immenses centres commerciaux comme  Bal Harbour Shops ,  Dadeland Mall  et  Bayside Marketplace …

Miami sera également le point de départ parfait pour aller à la découverte de deux des autres grandes étapes de ce road trip en Floride dont je vais vous parler dans les lignes qui suivent :  les Keys  et  les Everglades.

Avez-vous réservé vos activités à miami ?  🛥

Comme je vous l'ai expliqué dans les lignes précédentes, la capitale de la Floride regorge d'activités à faire et à découvrir durant votre séjour. Entre les sorties plage, les excursions en bateau ou même en hélicoptère, la découverte des différents musées de Miami... Je peux vous assurer que vous n'aurez pas le temps de vous ennuyer 🙂 Cependant, pour être sûrs de ne rien louper durant votre séjour, je vous conseille fortement de réserver vos activités en avance !

Où loger à Miami ?

Si vous ne savez pas encore où dormir à Miami durant votre séjour, je pense que vous aurez clairement l'embarras du choix 🙂 Voici quelques adresses que je peux vous recommander :

• CitizenM Miami Worldcenter est un hôtel situé près du Miami World Center. Il propose des chambres confortables et bien aménagées, conçues avec un style contemporain. Vous pourrez profiter d'un bar-salon, un café et une boutique de souvenirs. Pour une nuit, comptez environ 184 €  !

• The Vagabond Hotel   est un établissement charmant situé à environ 200 mètres du centre. Vous profiterez d'une ambiance rétro / vintage dans des chambres confortables et bien aménagées. Vous pourrez même profiter de la piscine et du bar pour boire un verre 🙂 Comptez 194 € pour une nuit.

Les Keys (de Key Largo à Key West)

Les Keys  ont tout d’un petit coin de paradis. Sur cet archipel tranquille et authentique, bordé par l’Océan Atlantique et par le Golfe du Mexique, vous pourrez vraiment en prendre plein les yeux pendant un road trip en Floride. Vous pourrez y profiter d’un climat tropical idéal, d’une grande diversité de paysages et d’une faune variée, que l’on retrouve dans plusieurs réserves naturelles protégées.

Je vous conseille de  passer au moins 3 jours sur cet archipel.  Vous pourrez les découvrir d’est en ouest en parcourant l’ Overseas Highway , qui traverse l’archipel sur environ 200 kilomètres en passant par 3 parties distinctes : les  Upper Keys , les  Middle Keys  et les  Lower Keys .

Aller à Key Largo durant un road trip en Floride

Depuis Miami, vous n’aurez qu’à prendre la route pour un peu plus d’une heure pour rejoindre  l’île des Keys  la plus proche :  Key Largo .

Key Largo fait partie des Upper Keys, c’est l’île la plus vaste de l’archipel. Elle s’étend tout en longueur sur environ 50 km et abrite beaucoup d’attractions comme le John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , une véritable merveille de la nature qui abrite des récifs coralliens, des mangroves, de nombreux sentiers de randonnée et des plages très agréables. C’est peut-être le tout meilleur endroit en Floride pour faire de la  plongée  et du  snorkeling , ou d’autres activités aquatiques (kayak, découverte de la barrière de corail en bateau…).

À l’extrême opposé de l’archipel se trouve  Key West , qui n’est autre que la ville située la plus au sud de tous les États-Unis, et probablement l’endroit de tous les Keys où l’on trouve le plus de choses à faire et à voir.

Cette petite ville de seulement 30 000 habitants se trouve à  moins de 150 km de Cuba , et l’ambiance caribéenne se fait clairement ressentir. Il y fait vraiment bon vivre et vous pourrez y faire la découverte de beaucoup de belles choses si vous ne savez pas encore que faire à Key West  :

• La  Little White House , la résidence du président Harry Truman, qui a vécu ici durant 6 mois pendant son mandat. Vous pouvez réserver une visite guidée de la maison  pour 20 €  environ.
• Le Fort Zachary Taylor Park , une ancienne base navale qui cache quelques jolis trésors naturels
• Smathers Beach , sans doute la plus jolie plage de l’île
• Duval Street  et ses jolies maisons victoriennes très colorées
• Southernmost Point , comme son nom l’indique, le point le plus au sud du pays
• La Maison d’Hemingway , une maison de style colonial typique, où l’auteur a vécu les 9 dernières années de sa vie
• Le Key West Lighthouse , un joli phare blanc de 22 mètres de haut, qui offre une vue unique sur la ville, les jardins et la maison d’Hemingway et même les îles alentours.

Les autres merveilles de l’archipel des Keys

D’autres découvertes sont accessibles sur la route qui traverse les Keys :

• Islamorada , plusieurs Keys qui composent les Upper Keys aux côtés de Key Largo
• Grassey Key , célèbre pour ses marécages roses
• Marathon  dans les Middle Keys, c’est la ville centrale de l’archipel, elle est bordée de jolies plages et du parc naturel de  Crane Point
• Dans les Lower Keys, le  Bahia Honda State Park  qui abrite une des plus jolies plages de Floride, et  Big Pine Key , l’endroit parfait pour faire une belle randonnée et découvrir une faune unique

Road trip en Floride : où loger dans les Keys ?

Si vous ne savez pas encore où dormir dans les Keys , je vous propose tout d'abord de consulter mon article dédié 🙂 En attendant, voici quelques adresses dans les 3 parties des Keys :

• A Key Largo , l' Atlantic Bay Resort est un établissement pittoresque situé dans la ville de Tavernier. Les chambres de l'hôtel sont confortables et bien entretenues, offrant un espace accueillant pour se reposer et se ressourcer. De plus, vous pourrez profiter de la piscine extérieure de l'établissement ainsi que l'accès direct à la plage. Comptez environ 330 €  pour la nuit.

• A Key West , le Harborside Motel & Marina offre une vue panoramique sur le port de plaisance Garrison Bight. L'établissement propose des chambres traditionnelles, et même une péniche ! Vous pourrez vous baigner dans la piscine extérieure ou vous détendre sur la terrasse bien exposée. Comptez 214 €  pour une nuit en chambre, et 367 €  pour la péniche.
• A Marathon, le Sea Dell Motel dispose de chambres avec réfrigérateur, four à micro-ondes et cafetière. Ici, vous pourrez profiter de la piscine extérieure ainsi que d'un espace pique-nique. Comptez 132 €  pour une nuit !

Pour cette troisième grande étape de ce  road trip en Floride , je vous propose de visiter les Everglades , un des endroits qui vous ont surement donné envie de voyager dans cet état plutôt qu’ailleurs. Les Everglades s’étendent sur une majorité du sud de la Floride, sur plus de 15 000 km². Une ou deux journées pourront être suffisantes pour apprécier cet endroit unique au monde. Si vous cherchez où dormir dans les Everglades , j'ai également un article sur le sujet 🙂

Cet immense espace qui abrite un des plus grands parcs nationaux des États-Unis est l’un des plus grands symboles de la vie sauvage à travers le monde. Il est classé en tant que  Réserve de la Biosphère ,  Zone humide d’importance internationale  et est inscrit au  Patrimoine Mondial de l’UNESCO depuis 1979 .

L’Everglades National Park  est accessible tout au long de l’année, mais la période idéale se situe entre décembre et avril, loin de la saison des pluies. À pied, en bateau, en vélo ou bien sûr avec l’un des fameux  hydroglisseurs (Airboat), sa visite promet des moments inoubliables. J'ai même un article sur les hydroglisseurs de l'Everglade  !

Lors de l’exploration des marécages, vous pourrez bien sûr voir des alligators et des crocodiles, mais aussi bien d’autres espèces de reptiles, plus de 50 espèces de mammifères, dont la panthère de Floride, plus de 300 espèces de poissons et 350 espèces d’oiseaux.

En poursuivant la route à travers les Everglades, vous arriverez naturellement du côté de  Sanibel . Cette île de la côte ouest de la Floride, située au large de Fort Myers, est reliée au continent par un grand pont. Elle est connue dans le monde entier pour ses plages de sable fin qui s’étendent sur près de 25 kilomètres et où l’on trouve une quantité et une diversité de  coquillages  vraiment incroyable.

Toutefois, ce sont souvent des plages privées qui appartiennent aux grands complexes hôteliers situés sur l’île. Seules les plages de  Bowman’s Beach  et  Lighthouse Beach Park  sont accessibles au public.

Bowman’s Beach est vraiment l’une des plus belles plages de Floride, c’est un endroit calme, au charme fou, qui est à la fois sauvage et bien équipé, avec une aire de jeu pour les enfants, des aires de pique-nique, des barbecues et tout ce dont on peut avoir envie.

Litghhouse Beach Park, au sud de l’île, est l’endroit parfait pour trouver des coquillages à marrée basse, c’est aussi ici que ce trouve le phare historique de Sanibel , l’édifice le plus célèbre de l’île.

Sur l’île, vous pourrez aussi visiter la  Réserve Naturelle Ding Darling  et suivre le  Wildlife Drive  sur près de 7 km pour partir à la découverte de la faune et de la flore locale. Ne manquez pas non plus le  Musée du Coquillage et d’autres activités comme l’excursion en canoé autour de l’île et le tour de l’île à vélo. Je vous recommande de passer au moins une nuit (et donc deux journées) sur Sanibel Island .

Road trip en Floride : Orlando

Cap au nord pour la prochaine étape, qui n’est autre que la ville du divertissement par excellence en Floride : Orlando. Orlando se trouve à environ 3 h 30 de route de Sanibel, mais sur votre route, vous pourrez faire de belles découvertes si vous le souhaitez, notamment du côté de Lakeland , et vous aurez même l’occasion de faire un petit détour par  Tampa .

Orlando n’est que la 4e plus grande ville de Floride. C’est pourtant la première destination touristique aux États-Unis, puisque ce sont environ 60 millions de personnes qui viennent ici chaque année ! Et cela tient à une raison toute simple : Orlando est le paradis des parcs d’attractions .

Les parcs d'Orlando  se trouvent tout au plus à quelques kilomètres de la ville :

• Disney World Orlando , probablement le parc d’attractions le plus connu au monde, qui regroupe en fait 4 grands parcs différents et deux parcs aquatiques : Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Blizzard Beach et Typhoon Lagoon.
• Universal Studios Orlando , le grand parc des studios de cinéma Universal, un gigantesque complexe de 3 parcs à thèmes, 1 parc aquatique et plusieurs hôtels luxueux, qui ravira notamment les fans d’Harry Potter et des films Marvel.
• Les parcs Seaworld , un complexe de trois parcs aquatiques : Seaworld (un des plus grands parcs marins du monde), Discovery Cove (où l’on peut nager avec les dauphins et rencontrer d’autres animaux marins) et Aquatica, un grand parc aquatique avec piscines, toboggans et autres attractions.
• Legoland Florida , un des plus grands parcs Lego au monde, qui abrite notamment Miniland et ses reproductions de grandes villes des États-Unis.

Voilà déjà de quoi bien vous occuper pendant plusieurs jours ! Mais si vous ne savez toujours pas que faire à Orlando , sachez qu'il s'agit une grande ville très intéressante où vous pourrez aussi visiter d’autres grandes attractions comme l ’Orlando Museum of Art (OMA), un des musées d’art les plus populaires de Floride.

Depuis Orlando, vous pourrez aussi faire un passage par le Centre Spatial Kennedy  (Kennedy Space Center), qui se trouve à environ une heure de route de la ville à  Cape Canaveral . C’est en quelques sortes le musée de la NASA, on peut y voir des reconstitutions grandeur nature de navettes et faire plusieurs expériences à sensations fortes, notamment dans un simulateur d’entrainement pour astronautes.  

S’il vous reste encore un peu de temps à consacrer à Orlando, vous pourrez peut-être  voir un match des Orlando Magic , ou faire une petite séance de  shopping  dans l’un des grands  centres commerciaux  et  outlets  de la ville. Le plus apprécié de tous est l’ Orlando International Premium Outlets , où l’on trouve beaucoup de magasins d’usine de grandes marques. Pour profiter au mieux de votre visite, pensez également aux pass ! J'ai un article   comparatif des pass Orlando qui pourrait vous intéresser 🙂

Où loger à Orlando ?

Voici quelques adresses si vous avez besoin d'inspiration pour des logements  où dormir à Orlando :

• Le Buena Vista Suites Orlando , entièrement composé de suites, est situé à 3 minutes de route du parc d’attractions Walt Disney World Resort ! Vous pourrez profiter sur place de la piscine extérieure chauffée et d'un petit-déjeuner gratuit. De plus, un service de navette régulière vers Walt Disney World est assuré. Comptez 215 €  pour une nuit.
• Fairfield by Marriott Inn  est un hôtel 3 étoiles. Ici, vous profiterez d'une piscine extérieure, d'un parking privé mais aussi d'une salle de sport. Les chambres sont spacieuses, modernes et confortables. Il faudra compter  158 €  pour une nuit !

Fort Lauderdale  se trouve sur la côte sud-est de la Floride (la fameuse Gold Coast) à tout juste une cinquantaine de kilomètres de Miami. Cette ville huppée est traversée par plus de 250 voies navigables, on la surnomme la « Venise de l’Amérique ». Mais l’ambiance est toute autre qu’en Vénétie ! Ici, les palmiers, les yachts hors de prix, les maisons coloniales et les hauts buildings modernes remplacent les ponts historiques, les gondoles, les palais et les édifices religieux.

Fort Lauderdale pourra être l’endroit parfait pour passer une dernière journée et une dernière soirée avant de repartir vers Miami pour terminer ce voyage sur les routes de Floride.

Pour découvrir cette ville au charme unique, vous aurez plusieurs solutions :

• Depuis l’eau, en Water Taxi, en paddle, en kayak, en gondole ou même dans un bateau de location
• Depuis la terre ferme, sur  Las Olas Beach  (la plus belle plage de la ville) et la grande avenue animée de  Las Olas Boulevard , ou en parcourant la Riverwalk, qui traverse le quartier historique sur les deux rives de la  New River

mon activité coup de ❤️ à fort lauderdale

Si vous ne savez pas encore que faire à Fort Lauderdale, pourquoi ne pas dédier une journée de votre séjour pour aller aux Bahamas  ? 🤩 Vous naviguerez durant deux heures dans un ferry tout confort, dans lequel vous pourrez faire des achats détaxés. Ici, vous aurez une journée libre pour explorer les merveilles de Bimini : vous pourrez goûter à la nourriture locale authentique, nager avec les dauphins ou bien faire du kayak. Pour être sûrs d'avoir accès à cette activité, je vous conseille comme toujours de bien réserver en avance !

Road trip en Floride : où dormir à Fort Lauderdale ?

• Coconut Bay Resort est un établissement situé à moins de 300 mètres de la plage. Ici, vous profiterez d'une piscine extérieure et de chambres climatisées et confortables. Ce complexe 3 étoiles propose également un service de concierge et une bagagerie. Comptez 205 € pour une nuit !

• L' Oasis Hotel se situe en plein cœur de Fort Lauderdale. Un parking et une connexion Wi-Fi sont disponibles gratuitement sur place. Ici, toutes les chambres comprennent une télévision par câble, un micro-ondes et un petit réfrigérateur. Comptez  145 €  pour une nuit 🙂

Comment se rendre en Floride ?

Les États-Unis font vraiment partie des pays où il est le plus facile de conduire. Tout est fait pour faciliter les trajets par la route, et l’état de Floride ne fait pas exception.

La conduite se fait à droite, les routes sont en bon état, souvent très larges et particulièrement droites, les indications routières sont claires et les véhicules qui circulent sont en grande majorité plutôt récents.

Voici quelques  règles de circulation  et conseils qui pourront vous être utiles :

• Aux carrefours, les  feux de circulation  sont souvent de l’autre côté de la route. Il ne faut donc bien évidemment pas s’arrêter juste au pied des feux, mais avant l’intersection. Parfois, le feu est rouge, mais l’indication en dessous «  Turn on Red  » autorise à tourner.
• Les  phares  doivent être allumés en cas de pluie ou de brouillard
• En cas de  contrôle de police , rangez-vous sur le bas-côté sans sortir de la voiture. Baissez la vitre et attendez dans votre véhicule que l’agent s’approche.
• En cas d’urgence, le numéro à composer est le  911
• Les  limites de vitesse  sont affichées en  Miles per Hours  (MPH). Ce n’est pas un souci en soi puisqu’elles sont clairement affichées et que votre véhicule indiquera la vitesse dans la même unité.
• Consommer de  l’alcool avant de prendre le volant est strictement interdit en Floride.
• La  ceinture de sécurité  est obligatoire pour tous les moins de 18 ans. Les enfants de moins de 5 ans doivent être installés dans un siège homologué.

Des paysages magnifiques vous attendent sur les routes de Floride, notamment sur la fameuse Overseas Highway qui relie les Keys. Les routes payantes sont peu nombreuses, on en trouve surtout du côté d’Orlando.

Louer une voiture en Floride

La  location de voiture en Floride  est également très accessible, pour louer un véhicule, il faudra simplement :

• Être âgé au minimum de  21 ans  (régulièrement, les agences proposent des tarifs plus élevés pour les conducteurs âgés de moins de 25 ans)
• Disposer d’un  permis de conduire  en règle. Avoir un  permis de conduire international  n’est pas une obligation, mais il pourra parfois vous simplifier la vie et certaines démarches administratives. Sa demande est gratuite, vous trouverez plus d’informations sur le site du  Service Public .
• Une  carte de crédit , associée à un compte qui dispose de suffisamment de fonds pour payer la location et la  caution du véhicule . Cette carte doit être au nom de la personne qui sera le conducteur principal de la voiture.

Toutes les  grandes agences de location internationales  sont présentes en Floride (Hertz, Sixt, Avis…), et vous trouverez leur bureau directement dans les aéroports ou dans toutes les grandes villes et les villes moyennes. Le mieux est de réserver votre véhicule en ligne avant même de partir, grâce à des sites comme  RentalCars , qui se chargent pour vous de comparer des milliers d’offres de location de voiture et de proposer les meilleurs prix.

Au niveau des options, pour rendre le voyage plus agréable, vérifiez que votre véhicule sera équipé de la climatisation et d’un  GPS  si vous ne prévoyez pas d’utiliser votre smartphone à cet effet. En ce qui concerne l’assurance, la meilleure option pour un road trip est bien souvent de prendre le  pack complet d’assurances  qui est proposé par ces plateformes comparatives.

Conseils et informations pratiques pour votre road trip en Floride

• Pour entrer en Floride, vous aurez besoin de votre passeport bien sûr, mais aussi d’un  ESTA  (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) l’équivalent du visa que vous pouvez obtenir en remplissant le  formulaire en ligne .
• Vérifiez si les  plafonds de paiements et de retrait  de votre carte bancaire sont suffisants, et ajustez-les au besoin. Généralement, la modification des plafonds peut se faire rapidement depuis l’application de votre banque, ou simplement en contactant votre conseiller. Prévenir celui-ci que vous partez à l’étranger peut également être utile, pour éviter que certaines transactions qui sembleraient anormales entrainent un blocage préventif de votre carte.
• Même si ce n’est pas obligatoire, disposer d’une  assurance  solide est vraiment nécessaire pour prendre la route en toute tranquillité en Floride. Si vous disposez d’une carte bancaire haut de gamme (type Mastercard Gold ou Visa Premier), la couverture offerte par celle-ci pourra être suffisante. Mais pour voyager dans un pays comme les États-Unis, où les frais de soins et de santé sont très élevés, mieux vaut souscrire une  assurance voyage  adaptée.
• Le  décalage horaire  entre la France et la Floride est de 6 heures pendant l’hiver et de 5 heures pendant l’été.
• Au moment de préparer votre valise, prévoyez une veste et au moins un pantalon, pour le reste, vous pourrez essentiellement prendre des T-shirts, shorts, jupes et maillots de bain. N’oubliez pas de prendre aussi un  adaptateur de prise électrique de voyage , une copie numérique ou sur papier de tous vos documents d’identification, quelques  dollars  en liquide, de la  crème solaire , une protection contre les  moustiques  et une  trousse de secours .

Nous arrivons à la fin de cet article 🙂 J'espère vraiment qu'il vous aura plu et que vous savez désormais comment organiser votre road trip en Floride  !

Les voyages ? Une passion ! Depuis 2013 (déjà !) je partage mes aventures sur ce blog voyage et je vous donne des conseils pour préparer vos prochaines escapades en Europe et un peu partout dans le monde !

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How to take the ultimate Florida road trip

Discover the secrets of the Sunshine State on a road trip that combines buzzing beach towns with wetland adventures and wildlife encounters.

Lapped by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, the southeastern US state of Florida is best known for its Disney parks and glittering cities. But go beyond the big hitters and you’ll find a world of natural attractions — from wetland-filled parks stitched with boardwalk trails to bays shining with nighttime bioluminescence that beg to be explored by kayak. Discover the best of them on this four-part round trip.

Part 1: Miami to New Smyrna

No Floridian adventure would be complete without a stint in Miami. The city may be best known for its urban offerings — such as the art deco buildings of South Beach, the mural-covered Wynwood Walls and the colourful streets of Little Havana — but it’s also a jumping-off point for the Everglades. This patchwork of subtropical wetlands makes up much of southern Florida, with its mangrove-lined waterways best explored on an airboat tour.

From here, head north to the city of Cocoa Beach, which unfolds along Florida’s ‘Space Coast’ — so named because of its proximity to Kennedy Space Center . Best known for its superb surfing, Cocoa Beach has a unique nocturnal secret. From June to October, bioluminescent organisms such as comb jellies turn nearby Banana River and Indian River Lagoon electric blue. Take a kayak tour to get up close to this natural phenomenon before hopping back behind the wheel.  

An hour up the coast and you’ll reach New Smyrna Beach, known for its creative coastal community. Tap into your artistic side with a class at the Hub on Canal art centre or take a trip to the nearby Canaveral National Seashore , for the chance to spot right whales and sea turtles.

Part 2: Central Florida to Clearwater

Leave Florida’s Atlantic shores behind as you strike west into central Florida. Away from the lights of Orlando, you’ll find lush forests, wildlife reserves and glistening bodies of water such as Lakes Harris and Denham. As you enter the western reaches of the state, you'll come to Crystal River, a pint-sized town touted as the manatee capital of the world. It’s hemmed by Kings Bay, a 600-acre, spring-fed expanse that serves as a critical habitat for manatees, which can often be spotted gathering in protected areas like Three Sisters Springs.  

Next, follow Route 19 south to Clearwater where the beaches really start to sing. Stop at Honeymoon Island State Park , where the sands reach into rare pine forests, home to wildlife such as gopher tortoises and armadillos.  

Part 3: Sarasota to Naples

Travel two hours further south and you’ll reach the vibrant city of Sarasota, where Florida’s mainland is connected to a necklace of idyllic keys. The most famous is Siesta Key, a white-sand-fringed barrier island that juts into the glassy waters of the Gulf of Mexico and is known for its brightly coloured lifeguard stands. Make a quick detour to Myakka River State Park , which protects Florida’s first designated Wild and Scenic River and is a habitat for alligators and birdlife, best spotted from the water on a boat or on a guided canoe trip.  

Continue south to the Gulf Coast city of Naples, famed for its historic fishing pier and colourful botanical gardens. Don’t miss the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge , which provides a critical habitat for the endangered big cats and has a pair of hiking trails that strike out into the wilderness.

Part 4: Key Largo to Key West

The final leg of this route heads east across Florida’s mainland, before swooping south to the Florida Keys, the picture-perfect island chain that curls out at the southernmost tip of the continental US. Make for Key Largo, where the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park protects mangrove-lined waterways and the only living barrier reef in the continental US.  

An epic drive on the Overseas Highway (taking in the famous Seven Mile Bridge) will lead you on to Key West. If you can tear yourself away from the bars and quirky gift shops along colourful Duval Street, book onto a catamaran cruise. Here you can snorkel amid bright marine life, from coral to stingrays, en route. From Key West, it’s a four-hour drive back to Miami.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• FAMILY TRAVEL
• TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE

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Hi, there are lots of posts about road trips but there are almost too many and they are all pretty bespoke

Would the following 14 day itinerary be too ambitious in your opinion:

It sounds like a tonne of driving?

It’s 2 adults, no kids and no real interest in Orlando or Disney . Main priority is nice beaches, nice food and cold beer/cocktails.

Thanks in advance

10 replies to this topic

It's a road trip, so lots of driving shouldn't be a surprise!

All quite achievable...we have done all of the legs in your itinerary, though not back to back.

I assume you are aware that whilst the Keys have many notable attractions, beaches aren't one of them.

Hope you are renting something interesting to drive?

I think thats a better plan. We do road triops and have another in sept and do 2-4 nights in a place so i get that you want to see as much as possible but too much and you dont see anything . As said the keys are not beachy but i would do 2 nights key west, its a unique place, 1 night islamorada, its lovely, also look at lauderdale by the sea, not far from miami but small with a square of bars near the pier and beach, no driving needed once there. Personally i didnt really like marco island, too many high rises for me but we did go for the day from naples.

My trip would look like this

Into miami 2/3 nights, key west 2, islamorada 1, stop at everglades on way to naples 3, back to LBTS 3 and miami 2. Home, or you could get the brightline train to west palm beach for the day too, no beach here

Good luck and when id the trip?

So to me, Marco is a special destination but it certainly isn't for everyone.

It is predominantly a residential island with some nice places to eat and great beaches - my favourite is Tigertail, but this does take some planning and walking to enjoy properly. There is a lagoon between the carpark and the 'Gulf side' beach - you can either wade across the lagoon or walk around it - maybe a 1/4 mile walk. Then, to get to the proper Tigertail, head north (right as you are facing the sea) for 1/2 - 1 mile and you'll have a glorious, largely unspoilt beach mainly to yourself with wonderful wildlife and shelling (at low tide).

Two night minimum everywhere to give you a full day.

If you want to visit the Palm Beach area you could take Tri Rail or Brightline up to West Palm beach but then you would need to use ride share when there so if you really want to see that area just drive it .

Palm Beach has beautiful beaches but its a very expensive town to stay in. If you want to see that area consider Singer Island instead.

Thanks all - some very useful advice.

Much appreciated

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Pour un circuit dans l'Ouest américain par exemple, la haute saison se situe entre la mi-juillet et la mi-août . C'est aussi à ce moment qu'il y a le plus de voyageurs sur les routes et où les prix sont le plus élevés. Il est possible d'y voyager en hiver, entre la mi-décembre et la mi-mars , mais il faut savoir que certaines destinations peuvent recevoir des précipitations de neige comme le Grand Canyon et Bryce Canyon.

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Voir toutes les FAQ sur les road trips aux USA

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