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Small Group Gulf Coast Manatee Tours and More in Crystal River, Florida

Go on a gulf coast expedition with our unique wildlife experiences.

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Manatee Encounter

Snorkel with the manatees with a guided tour from our U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains. Our tours are conducted daily in the beautiful Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. Get up close and personal with these amazing mammals and learn about our ecosystem and their habitat. Book your manatee encounter online!

• Hour Glass 3 Hours
• User All Ages

Check out our Other Featured Gulf Coast Tours!

• Hour Glass 4 Hours

Private VIP Manatee Encounter

Enjoy the beauty of Crystal River, Florida and the thrill of seeing our majestic wildlife on your own private manatee tour. Our captain will give you an extended journey around King’s Bay where our in-water guide will lead you in an encounter with our Florida Manatees. Book online!

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Summer Sunset Cruise

Enjoy an eco tour with us as we take a trip from the Crystal River National Wildlife refuge. The points of interest are adjusted seasonally to ensure you see all the Nature Coast has in store. Book your Crystal River sunset cruise online today!

• Hour Glass 5 Hours

U-Pick Scallop Trip

Spend the day on the pristine coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico hunting the Bay Scallop!  Let our U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains guide you to the fertile underwater grasslands found off of the Crystal River for this unique wildlife experience

We were voted Best of Florida, 2022 !

We are so thrilled to be considered one of the best Regional Vacation Destinations in Florida alongside Everglades National Park, The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum), Kayak Excursions – Bunche Beach, The Lodge at Wakulla Springs, and Universal Orlando Resort!

Why our customers love Gulf Coast Expeditions!

Captain Ron and guide Michelle were fantastic. The small group we had offered great interaction with manatees. I was even given a nuzzle by a curious one. Hot coffee getting out of water was a great touch as well.

Thanks to captain Ron and manatee guide Michelle for an awesome once-in-a-lifetime experience! It was truly a wonderful experience. My teenage kids were even amazed at the number of manatees we were able to see and literally play with. A trip we will never forget!!

My friend and I toured with Lauren and Audrey and it was amazing. Our guides were very knowledgeable of the manatees and where to find them and they were funny too. This was an amazing experience. We would definitely do it again.

Once in a lifetime experience. Super cool knowledgable guides, and captain. This is not a cattle boat tour, it’s a small group and they take you to places that other groups don’t go so you aren’t in the water with swarms of people. Highly recommend!

Captain Ron and the whole crew were terrific. Fun, knowledgeable staff that are passionate about what they do and the manatees and their environment. Highly recommend!

Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary: beaches, manatees and pristine waters

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: August 4, 2022  - Last updated: February 2, 2024

Since the first time we visited Florida as a family we’ve wanted to see more and more of the Sunshine State.  Florida offers a variety of family road trip options ranging from beach vacations , island hopping in the Keys , to exploring the one-of-a-kind nature on the Gulf Coast.  We love doing the Florida Gulf Coast road trip, and if you haven’t do it, put it on your bucket list.

Since Florida has both an Atlantic Coast and the Gulf, you’re sure to weigh out the options for doing a vacation to either side. The experience is very different and both are beautiful. Here’s how you can rock a Florida Gulf Coast road trip too and fall in love with Florida all over again!

Note : Hurricane Ian was HARD on Naples and Marco Island. Both locations suffered a lot of damage and many businesses were either destroyed or hit hard. While recovery efforts for some have been swift, others didn’t fare as well and it will take time to get back to normal, or to their new normal. Fort Myers was also horribly damaged, with Sanibel and Captiva Islands being left inaccessible. The are now accessible, but recovery is slow (as of Feb 2023).

Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Starting by flying into Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL), grab your rental car and head west. If you need to start or end with a few days relaxing at a hotel in South Beach , do it, but don’t let Miami distract you too much from the amazing Florida Gulf Coast road trip you’re planning. We’ve got a great Miami itinerary if you need that…

Florida National Parks to Start Your Road Trip

One of the great things about Florida is the amazing nature and very unusual ecosystems. With three National Park sites just west of Miami, getting into nature is the perfect start to your Florida Gulf Coast road trip. Day one of your drive allows you to experience one or two of the parks, finishing the whole itinerary with whichever park or parks you skip at the start. And there is lots of great kayaking in Florida’s National Parks , so plan for that too. Gosh, Florida is cool!

Visit Biscayne National Park

H ead west from Miami to Biscayne National Park .  From there your adventure begins and the wonders of Florida unfold before your eyes. Being so close to Miami you’d think that Biscayne National Park would be crazy with visitors.  Nope!  This gem of a park is 95% underwater, so the best way to experience it is in a kayak, on a paddleboard or from a small boat, but you can also visit on foot.

The Visitors Center in Homestead, Florida is set next to a marina and shallow launch, so going through the exhibits inside and then heading out to the nature trails makes for a fun activity.  We enjoy the walk out to the end of the jetty where the bird sanctuary is, and you can even take a break to play in the water.

Tip :  check with the National Parks Service regarding boat tours out to the islands and lighthouses; they don’t run every day , and they do tend to sell out quickly.

Check out Biscayne Bay tours here!

Everglades National Park Road Trip Stop

The Everglades are a unique ecosystem that pulls right up to the edge of suburban Miami, so that makes Everglades National Park an ideal stop at the beginning of your Florida Gulf Coast road trip.  Discover iconic Florida wildlife by hiking the boardwalks across the grass marshes out of the west side Flamingo or northern Shark Valley Entrance. No doubt you’ll see egrets and spoonbills, turtles and Florida alligators, and with luck even flamingos.

Check out our Guide to Everglades National Park!

For a visit to the 10,000 islands area of Everglades National Park , the Gulf Coast Visitors Center in Everglades City has ranger led boat tours that’ll take you out into the bay and then through the islands. This is a great tour for bird watching and spotting the occasional manatee or dolphin. I would consider this one of the best places to kayak in South Florida .

If you’d prefer to explore the swamp side of Everglades National Park , the Shark Valley Visitors Center is the hub for catching the Tram Tour.  We did a similar tour in Yosemite National Park and loved the experience of the tram .  This is also a way to get to the heart of the Everglades without doing the 14 mile round trip walk or bike ride.

Tip :  Visit the National Park Service for a list of approved tour operators to explore Everglades National Park on the water.  Hiking, biking, kayaks, airboats or small motorboats offer a variety experiences.

Explore Big Cypress National Preserve

Big Cypress can be done at the start or end of your Florida Gulf Coast road trip. Driving on Route 41, the Tamiami Trail, you’ll pass by several Welcome Centers.  Each has a boardwalk to take you to a viewing area where you’ll no doubt see alligators and more.  The Oasis Welcome Center was our first Big Cypress National Preserve stop and it made a great first impression.

If you want to do some hiking in the Preserve, the Big Bend area is on the south side of the Tamiami Trail (alligators and crocodiles) or head north on Route 29 to the Education Center where you’ll find some of the largest cypress trees in Florida.

Tip :  if you’re able to schedule your time in Big Cypress National Preserve early in the day, the mosquitoes and heat are less and will make for a better visit.

Beaches on the Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

You’re now starting the beach portion of your Florida Gulf Coast road trip. As you hit the Gulf Coast at Naples and head northward, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to jump into the warm waters of the gulf. If beach time is your primary goal with your road trip, check out our Guide to Florida Gulf Coast Beache s.

Visiting the Naples Area

After immersing your family in the Everglades and all of the cool things that you’ll find in the swamp, it’s time for the beach!   Naples is a nice stop as we head north on our Florida Gulf Coast road trip.  The area is huge, but if you follow the signs towards the Naples Pier, you’ll find the historic area full of beautiful Florida homes and ample street parking.

Check out our guide for Things to Do in Naples and Marco Island!

Tip : visit Marco Island for even more fun and beautiful things to do with kids! It’s just south of Naples and has both beautiful hotels and several nature preserves.

It’s easy to wander around looking for dinner and loving the Florida vibe, but then it’s also just as easy to hit the beach.  The beaches are very clean and the surf here in Naples is deep enough to swim, unlike the beaches to the north.  Also, if you’re lucky you’ll park close to one of the beach shower sites so you can be clean before getting back in your vehicle.

Note :  the city of Naples has an awesome parking meter system that will send you a text message when your parking is about to expire.  Perfect for helping you relax at the beach.

Quiet Beach Vibes in Fort Myers Beach

Matanzas Pass Preserve, a day use area in Fort Myers Beach , is another refuge for Florida’s famous bird and turtle population.  Hiking through the mangrove forest to an inland bay, the quiet Matanzas Pass Preserve is worth a morning visit in the sunshine, and if you’re up for some kayaking Estero Bay is protected and calm.

Tip :  watch for fiddler crabs scurrying past the boardwalk and through the mangroves at low tide.

Afterwards, cross the street for beachcombing and exploring the sandbar of Fort Myers Beach.  We like the Mango Street beach access to be perfect both for parking and being close to the sand bar that forms with the outgoing tides.  Street parking is readily available in many of the pullouts during a mid-week visit. On the weekend, it is quite a bit busier, so get to the beach early.

Things to Do in Bradenton Beach

We were seeking out the historic side of Florida when we ventured into Bradenton.  It actually turned out to be a great addition to our Florida Gulf Coast road trip itinerary.  We wound through historic downtown Bradenton, which was adorable, until we made it out to the De Soto National Memorial. While it’s not as quaint or old as downtown Saint Augustine where we live, it’s still a nice place to stroll.

 As part of the National Parks System, De Soto is a great place for experiencing living history and reenactments, but also for strolling a beautiful nature trail out to De Soto Point.  And be sure to try on the 16th century Spanish armor… cuz it’s real comfy (not!).

Tip :  living history doesn’t occur every day so check with the Park’s website for reenactment days prior to your visit.

After you get your history on, head out to Bradenton Beach for an awesome beach afternoon.  The shells here are more plentiful than anywhere we’ve been, especially the colorful snail shells.  There are beach showers close to the primary lifeguard stations so you don’t have to bring all of that sand back with you.  Bonus:  designated beach parking in Manatee County (Bradenton) is free! You’ll really appreciate small things like this as you continue on your Florida Gulf Coast road trip.

Fort De Soto County Park

Living in Washington, we used to spend a lot of time at Fort Worden State Park .  Fort De Soto County Park is very similar except for the amazingly warm water, palm trees and presence of manatees.  We started off by exploring the bunkers and bouncing our echoes off the depths of the hill, followed by some much needed swim time.  

Check out our Complete Guide to Fort de Soto

The beach near the 1000-foot fishing pier is well protected and deeper than other Gulf Coast beaches you’ll find.  Oh yeah, and we saw three manatees here!  I almost bumped into one while swimming and then two others swam past.  Such a treat!

For some added fun, walk to the end of the pier and watch for dolphins.  We saw several playing in the surf as well as stealing the fish from the many fishermen on the pier.  The kids were torn between watching the dolphins playing or the manatees swimming below us.  Really amazing!

Camping at Fort De Soto County Park is ideal on your Florida Gulf Coast road trip because it’s close enough to civilization that you can get what you need, but far enough away that you feel completely disconnected.  Also, morning walks at Fort De Soto allow for some great bird watching, including ibises, herons and spoonbills.

Tip:  plan your visit or camping time here to be able to take the foot ferry to  Egmont Key State Park to visit the lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse on the Florida Gulf Coast.

Visit Honeymoon Island State Park

If you want to add an extra beach day after you visiting Fort de Soto, plan to have a morning or full day at Honeymoon Island State Park. It’s one of the best Florida state parks for kayaking that also has a beach. Enjoy several beach areas, lots of mangrove to paddle around, and some of the best beachcombing on your Gulf Coast road trip.

Tip : get there early, because the traffic on and off the island is bad. Also, parking is limited at the main beach areas.

Road Trip Stop in Tarpon Springs: Greek America

Florida has some of the most vibrant towns in America with citizens transplanted from around the country and globe.    So much fun and a great stop between destinations!

I know that may sound ridiculous and like it can’t possibly be that way, but it really is. There genuinely is music an activity everywhere. It’s one of the most unique places to visit on your Florida Gulf Coast road trip.

Why is Tarpon Springs so Greek?

In the early 20th cen tury there was an influx of Greek Americans to the Tarpon Springs area as they relocated to work in the massive sea sponge farming industry.  They settled, made Tarpon Springs their home and today it’s a diverse and thriving community.

While other people from around the world moved in and out of Tarpon Springs, the central town and businesses were all Greek-owned and many families resiliently stayed in town. It’s such a wonderful cultural phenomena in Florida!

Beaches in Tarpon Springs and Northward

This is a unique part of the Florida Gulf Coast road trip as it’s the start of the bend of the state around the Gulf of Mexico. What this means is that the tides are more calm and the rivers meet the Gulf in calm bays and marshes, which makes the beautiful beaches the Gulf Coast is known for fewer and further between.

Starting at Tarpon Springs and heading north and west until you make it to Alligator Point past Wakulla. The geography and geology of the area just doesn’t make the best swimming beach areas, but there is plenty to enjoy besides the sand.

Beaches to visit include Pine Island, Cedar Key, Shired Island and Horseshoe Beach. These beaches are good for getting to the water, but the sand is very fine to a point of making mud in many places. You’ll want to enjoy the nearby springs instead of the beach in this part of the Florida Gulf Coast.

Florida Gulf Coast Springs to Visit

Undoubtedly, the true gems of Florida are the more than 1000 fresh water springs. Some of the best springs for seeing manatees are on the Gulf Coast, so it’s really easy to add them to your road trip plan. I know the beaches are tempting, but just wait until you see the springs!

Homosassa Springs State Park

Experiencing wildlife is never guaranteed, but bringing the family to Homosassa Springs is an almost surefire way to wow them with Florida’s nature.  Homosassa Springs State Park is home to the largest continual congregation of West Indian Manatees.  Of all the sights and activities to captivate young travelers, wildlife offers the most visible education about the natural world, and in Florida’s case, a delicate ecosystem teeming with life.  This State Park is known as one of Florida’s attraction parks as it’s both a natural spring and wildlife habitat as well as a species collection of some of Florida’s unique native creatures.

We rarely refer anybody to a zoo, but Homosassa Springs State Park is more than that.  It isn’t a superfluous collection of exotic pets, but a preserve of Florida’s wildlife gene pool with active programs to teach the public about their local environment.  The discovery center is particularly good for learning about manatees and how they operate throughout Florida’s rivers and coastlines.

Note: you cannot swim at Homosassa Springs State Park, as it’s a protected area for manatees and wildlife viewing. There are other springs to swim at though, so don’t worry.

Manatees at Homosassa Springs

For the best chance of seeing the most manatees possible in a single moment, visiting Homosassa Springs in the winter is the way to go.  From one to one hundred, there is almost always a manatee present in the Homosassa River, which begins here at the springs.  We were here at the beginning of spring and only saw two wild manatees, but earlier in the month there had been shoulder-to-shoulder manatees pooling in the warm, perfectly clear river.

Note :  there are three manatees in captivity at Homosassa Springs as part of the native species preservation.  With their enclosures being joined with the river, it’s a very unique set up.  You can also see the facilities attached to the river where wildlife specialists can treat and study the manatees.

Swim with Manatees at Crystal River and Springs

Slow moving and sparkling in the Florida sun, Crystal River offers a unique opportunity to swim and snorkel in manatee inhabited waters.   Guided tours on the river, including in-water experiences are available for almost all ages.  It’s an unforgettable Florida family road trip option.

Note : never try to touch a manatee no matter how gentle they may seem OR WHAT YOUR GUIDE SAYS. Respecting Florida’s wildlife ensures enjoyment for future generations.

Book a Crystal River Manatee Swim here!

There are several access points to the river, including via the Crystal Springs National Wildlife Refuge where the Crystal River meets the Gulf of Mexico.  Whether walking through the marshes or visiting the beach at Fort Island Beach, you’ll be able to have three drastically different experiences in Crystal River in the same day.

Tip :  we stayed at the Plantation on Crystal River and its central location made for the most stress-free visit to the area.

Book the Plantation on Crystal River here!

Swim in the Springs at Rainbow Springs State Park

There is no place on earth like Florida’s Rainbow Springs State Park .  The blue waters flow slowly towards the Gulf Coast, underwater caverns in the river with lush vegetation make this stop the perfect end to a Florida Gulf Coast road trip.  Within Rainbow Springs State Park you’ll find man-made waterfalls (totally magical setting), a designated swimming area directly at Rainbow Springs themselves, kayak and canoe rentals and a butterfly garden.  It’s really the most beautiful place in the Florida back country

Tip :  easy hiking through the subtropical forest adds a nice change of pace if the family has been in the water constantly.  Head towards the butterfly garden for the trailheads.

If you want to paddle on the Rainbow River, you can either do a guided tour or launch downstream from the state park. There are places for snorkeling in the river and lots of wildlife. Always be cautious of alligators though; they aren’t interested in you, but they will defend themselves if you swim towards them. Such a beautiful place to explore, and a great way to finish your Florida Gulf Coast road trip!

Book a Rainbow River snorkeling trip here!

Gear for a Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip

We camp a lot at home in the Pacific Northwest or in the Rocky Mountains , but this was our first time doing coastal/tropical camping.  We learned a lot so you don’t have to.

Road Trip via Campervan

We knew that we wanted to camp in Florida but weren’t sure how.  There were fears of snakes, panthers and alligators (not our fears, other people) and we didn’t really know how we could assemble our camping essentials before we took off.  We were so excited when we discovered Escape Campervans .  They were able to outfit us with the most stylish van ever complete with a bed, kitchen and rooftop sleeper.

Check Escape Campervans deals here!

Our family of four fit perfectly in our set up and it made it so easy to pack up and go wherever we needed to.  We also faced a brush fire closing part of the highway, which could’ve left us high and dry, but we didn’t have to worry because we had everything with us and it was seamless.

Note : having the Escape Campervan with us made picnicking super easy since it was equipped with kitchen tools, sink, refrigerator and stove.  Totally awesome.

Pickup location : for this Florida Gulf Coast road trip we picked up our Escape Campervan in Miami Beach.  What better place to start an adventure?! The Miami Beach location has moved to Orlando now , which is actually even better for exploring more of Florida.

Prep for Sunshine and Mosquitoes

If you’ve ever put sun block on a kid you know it can be a pain.  The Florida sun is hot and it’s important to be protected.  In addition to keeping our hats readily available, we were sure to use sunblock whenever we were hiking, swimming or just playing at the beach.

Tip :  use environmentally friendly sunblocks whenever you can.  What washes off your body can hurt the ecosystem you’re swimming in.

And bug sprays. Repel Brand has two bug sprays we like: Natural (standard spray) and Plant Based  (made from lemon and eucalyptus oils).  Both are very effective and both taste awful if you get them in your mouth.

Tip :  the mosquitoes in the Everglades are very bold.  It’s a good idea to spray your clothes in addition to exposed skin.

Smart Equipment for Kids

You’re in Florida, right?  A Florida Gulf Coast road trip is going to include beach time so you know you’ll need towels and kid supplies.  If you’ve reserved an Escape Campervan or another sort of RV, know that it usually doesn’t come with towels so pack some or grab some inexpensive ones before you’re at the beach.

Must-have road trip items:

• Water wings/child PFDs
• Li’l Swimmers (for the diapered kids)
• Aquasocks/flipflops
• Flashlights
• Beach umbrellas/mats

Whether you’ve camped the whole way or gone top down in a convertible, the route back to your start is easy, either retracing your tracks or heading down the interstate. If you want, you could even continue the trip around the Gulf enjoying tons of things to do in Tallahassee and then continuing onto Mobile, Alabama . Whichever path you choose, no doubt you’ll already be plotting and planning your next Florida family road trip.  And now how much do you love FL?!

Harmony,Momma To Go

Sunday 21st of May 2017

Wow we’ve spent a lot of time in Naples and ft Myers but haven’t gone too far north!!! Looks like so much to do as you go up the coast

Saturday 29th of April 2017

Cool itinerary! Really liked that part of Florida, though we stayed mostly around the Everglades, Miami, and the Keys. Makes me want to go back :)

Friday 28th of April 2017

You always make road trips seem awesome and travel with young children sheer pleasure. I will keep sending these tips on to my friends.

Obligatory Traveler

I’ve never heard of Rainbow Springs State Park, but it looks amazing. Guess I’ll have to add it to the list. The rest of the Gulf looks great too, especially all of the areas with manatees

Friday 7th of April 2017

What a nice family vacation! I do not know FL has Greek influence and it is nice to get to know more of this southern state through your lens. I was in Everglades at night, saw the alligators and got several bites by mosquito. I always wanted to return there during the day again perhaps take the tram.

Protect Your Trip »

17 top gulf coast beaches to visit.

This southern shoreline beckons with charming oceanfront locales.

(Getty Images) |

Fill up the car and head to these coastal destinations for an affordable beach vacation.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful seaside escape or a beach with amenities like shops and water sports equipment rentals, the Gulf Coast – which spans Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida – offers it all. Plus, many Gulf Coast shorelines sit close to budget-friendly accommodations, attractions and dining venues, making them terrific choices for a cheap beach trip . Regardless of your budget and interests, these stretches of sand overlooking the Gulf of Mexico serve as ideal settings for your next beach getaway.

Naples, Florida

The Florida Gulf Coast city of Naples draws visitors with its picture-perfect turquoise waters, paired with a thriving art scene and an array of shopping and dining venues . It offers many beaches, including Vanderbilt Beach (a public stretch of sand with on-site amenities like restrooms and parking, as well as proximity to multiple resorts and restaurants) and Naples Municipal Beach (a family-friendly option with a concession stand and a historic pier that's great for fishing). But considering Naples is known as a home to millionaires and has the sixth-highest per capita income out of any city in the country, prices can be steep. Properties like LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort , where beach butlers, a golf club, a spa and private cabanas are available, offer a high-end stay. However, you can find deals if you visit outside of the peak travel season – which runs from January through April – and bed down at more wallet-friendly hotels, such as the Bayfront Inn 5th Ave .

Mustang Island, Texas

A budget-friendly vacation spot just outside Corpus Christi, Mustang Island boasts 18 miles of shoreline. Head to Mustang Island State Park, where you can hunker down at one of 48 campsites equipped with water and electricity; a number of unpowered campsites right on the beach are also available. This top beach destination in Texas offers plenty of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, swimming and bird-watching. When you're not at the beach, tee off at the seaside Palmilla Beach golf course or check out the restaurants, boutiques and art galleries in Port Aransas.

Marco Island, Florida

South of Naples and northwest of Everglades National Park sits Marco Island, a small haven popular among retirees, but also quite family-friendly. Tigertail Beach Park is a top choice for families thanks to its playground, boardwalks, concessions and restrooms, while South Marco Beach is a convenient option for those staying at Marco Island's top hotels . Vacationers can ride the waves on Jet Skis, search for manatees swimming past mangroves or take a boat tour with the survey crew of the Dolphin Explorer to identify and catalogue area dolphins. Reserve a room at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort , a large property with eateries, pools, a spa and even an adults-only area called Paradise by Sirene. The resort's 10K Alley gaming center and restaurant offers bourbon, craft beer, bowling and virtual reality games. Vacation rentals at a range of prices are also available.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area offers more than 30 miles of white sand beaches and sea oat-covered dunes. History buffs can explore the 90-mile Civil War Trail and check out Fort Morgan State Historic Site, both of which have ties to the Battle of Mobile Bay. Other nearby attractions include the USS Alabama at Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama, and the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida. In terms of lodging, if you want a higher-end resort consider the top rated Perdido Beach Resort with an indoor-outdoor pool, waterfront amenities and four restaurants. In the area, you'll also find thousands of vacation rentals, and properties affiliated with hotel brands like Courtyard by Marriott, Holiday Inn Express and Best Western.

St. Pete Beach, Florida

Situated roughly 30 miles southwest of Tampa, St. Petersburg and its surrounding beaches – which are some of America's best stretches of sand – see an average of 361 days of sunshine per year, making the region an excellent place to soak up some rays. Plus, the area offers unique attractions and activities, such as see-through kayaking with dolphins and manatees, the Dalí Museum and the Imagine Museum, dedicated to contemporary artworks made from glass. Book a stay at The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club to be within walking distance of downtown and the St. Pete Pier, a sleek new destination on the water, only open since 2020. There are also plenty of Old Florida-style inns and motels at more affordable price points should you want to enjoy proximity to St. Pete Beach without breaking the bank.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Visit this town on the Mississippi coast to explore the state's section of Gulf Islands National Seashore, Davis Bayou, a protected area with more than 400 acres. The seashore offers ample room for camping, boating, hiking, fishing and biking. Another popular Ocean Springs shoreline is Front Beach, a white sand beach that sits near the town's yacht club. When you need a break from the sand, check out the Charnley-Norwood House, which was designed and built by world-renowned architects Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. As far as lodging goes, Ocean Springs offers a variety of charming cottages, as well as affordable Country Inn & Suites, Travelodge and Holiday Inn Express outposts.

Destin, Florida

Make your way to Destin on the Florida Panhandle to take advantage of top-notch fishing opportunities, peruse charming shops and enjoy loads of family-friendly activities. The town features many public beaches, including Henderson Beach State Park (where you'll find ample parking and restrooms) and James Lee Park, which offers picnic tables, pavilions and a playground, among other amenities. Cool off on a hot day at Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park (open seasonally), watch sharks and rays at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, or embark on a dolphin cruise from HarborWalk Village – an entertainment district with a variety of boutiques, eateries and art galleries. Destin offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from recreational vehicle campgrounds to vacation rentals to resorts and hotels, such as the U.S. News' top-rated Henderson Beach Resort and the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort .

Navarre, Florida

Largely free of tourists, laid-back Navarre is situated in the Florida Panhandle and along 12 miles of beach, set between Gulf Islands National Seashore and Navarre Beach Marine Park. Head to Navarre Beach to take a walk on the Navarre Beach Pier – the longest pier in Florida – or visit the Florida side of Gulf Islands National Seashore to swim or lounge on white sand at Opal Beach. Other can't-miss attractions located within 30 miles of Navarre include the Gulf Breeze Zoo, with over 1,000 animals from around the world, and the 101-year-old Imogene Theater. The SpringHill Suites Navarre Beach offers many rooms with balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico or Santa Rosa Sound, as well as free breakfast, a pool, a lazy river and a waterfront restaurant.

Siesta Key, Florida

Located just off the coast of Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach was voted by travelers on TripAdvisor as one of the top beaches in the U.S. in 2023, thanks to its snow-white sand and azure waters. With a playground, picnic area, concession stands and lifeguards on duty all year round, it's certainly a family-friendly spot. It can get lively, too: stop by later on a Sunday afternoon to catch impromptu drum circles that pop up around the sunset hours. Off the beach, take to the waters of Sarasota Bay or the Myakka River in a kayak, boat or paddleboard to see if you can catch a glimpse of manatees and dolphins. When hunger strikes, Siesta Key Village (a short walk north of the beach) is home to a variety of restaurants, including plenty of seafood options.

Madeira Beach, Florida

Head 28 miles west from Tampa and you'll land in the barrier island community of Madeira Beach, with 2.5 miles of beaches facing out to the Gulf of Mexico. There's a variety of amenities including parking, restrooms and beach chair rentals. The southern tip of the beach is a hot spot for fishing, but there are also dozens of charter companies that can take you offshore for deep sea fishing to catch grouper, snapper and more. When it's time to eat, consider heading to John's Pass Village, a former fishing settlement that's now home to an array of shops and restaurants, covering plenty of ground from pizza to seafood. It's also possible to find relatively affordable accommodations right by the sea: casual options include the Cambria Madeira Beach Hotel and the Courtyard St. Petersburg Clearwater/Madeira Beach.

Anna Maria Island, Florida

At the north end of a string of barrier islands and a 20-mile drive from Sarasota lies Anna Maria Island and its collection of beautiful beaches. Expect a particularly relaxed vibe: it's billed as having old-fashioned Florida charm, not the kind of beach town with high-rise condos and fast food chains aplenty. There's multiple beaches to choose from – for a tranquil setting, try Bean Point Beach at the island's northern tip, or for a more lively and family-friendly vibe, there's Manatee Beach, which also has amenities like concessions, lifeguards, playgrounds and restrooms. If you're in town between November and March, consider heading to the Market at Coquina Beach, where local artisans and creators sell food, clothing, and much more every Sunday. To rest your head, you can stay in a renovated 1930s-style bungalow at the family-run Bungalow Beach Resort, located right alongside the sugar-white sands of Bradenton Beach.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Located a short drive west of Tampa, the city of Clearwater Beach is home to palm-lined white sand beaches with warm, turquoise waters. The main strip of sand, also called Clearwater Beach, is centrally located with lifeguards on duty all year and a wide selection of hotels and restaurants within walking distance. Be sure to drop by Pier 60, where you can go fishing, watch pelicans or catch street performers in the evenings. And if you're looking to get away from it all, consider venturing into Caladesi Island State Park. Located just a few miles north of Clearwater Beach, this park is accessible only by boat or public ferry. You can paddle through the park's mangroves and explore wild beaches, or rent your own boat to spend the night at the marina. Beach wheelchairs are available for free at the ranger station.

Panama City Beach, Florida

Up in the Florida panhandle, Panama City Beach is home to a whopping 27 miles of beaches sprawled along the coastline. Some of the best places to hit the sea are in the local state parks: St. Andrews and Camp Helen. The former is considered great for kids thanks to its generally calm waters. If you're looking for an aquatic adventure, snorkeling equipment and kayaks can be rented from March to Labor Day. If you've had your fill of beach time, Panama City Beach is well-stocked with other attractions such as the Shipwreck Island Waterpark, with waterslides aplenty. By night, Pier Park, an open-air mall, is an entertainment hub with an IMAX cinema, restaurants and more; for adults, Panama City Beach is also home to a host of lively beach bars.

Sanibel Island, Florida

For a nature-filled getaway, look no further than Sanibel Island . Considered one of Florida's best beach destinations , this island off of the coast of Fort Myers provides countless opportunities to go shelling at Bowman's Beach and fishing at Lighthouse Beach Park, which features a 138-year-old lighthouse. Plus, Sanibel boasts 25 miles of bike trails and paths alongside buildings that aren't allowed to stand any taller than the surrounding palm trees, in order to protect the natural environment. At J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge , look for wildlife like manatees, sea turtles and alligators during a 90-minute educational tram tour. When hunger strikes, sit down for fresh seafood and craft cocktails at Cielo Restaurant, a local fine dining spot.

Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Vacationers who are looking for some extra nightlife and activities should visit Fort Myers Beach. In this small town on Estero Island, travelers will find plenty of beach spaces. Head inland to check out interesting attractions like the Edison and Ford Winter Estates , the former seasonal homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The adjacent properties feature the Edison laboratory and 20 acres of gardens, among other amenities. Additional can't-miss sights include the IMAG History & Science Center and Manatee Park , where you can learn about these endangered gentle giants.

Captiva Island, Florida

Continue driving northwest from Sanibel Island and you'll reach Captiva Island . Measuring nearly 4.5 miles long, Captiva is home to three public beaches and a number of private beaches operated by resorts. Captiva Beach is famous for its sunsets and romantic ambiance, but on-site parking is limited, so plan on arriving early. Meanwhile, Turner Beach at Blind Pass is ideal for fishing and shelling, though its currents make it unsafe for swimming. Be sure to eat at Captiva Island's famed English pub-inspired restaurant, The Mucky Duck, which sits right on Captiva Beach. If you're looking to enjoy some retail therapy, head to the quaint boutiques lining Andy Rosse Lane and in Chadwick's Square.

Pensacola Beach, Florida

With 18 miles of beaches, an average water temperature of 72 degrees and some 343 sunny days per year, this destination at the western end of the Florida Panhandle has a lot going for it. With so much beach, consider hiring a bicycle and going exploring for the perfect spot: it's a fairly easy way to get around the island. A number of beaches have lifeguard services, and the Park West beach also has grills, a portion dedicated to dogs and showers on site. If you're looking for a little excitement while also getting in touch with nature, you can head out to spot dolphins on a Jet Ski tour. It's also easy to hop over to the bigger city of Pensacola, with its downtown full of museums, restaurants, bars and more. Accommodation options range from major chains like the Hilton to private vacation rentals and RV camping sites. And since the island is only a few hundred feet wide in parts, you'll always be close to the water.

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7 Gorgeous Gulf Coast Beaches From Texas to Florida

Here are the best beaches on the Gulf of Mexico for your next relaxing getaway.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

There are five states lucky enough to have a coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, often referred to as the Gulf Coast. These states — Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida — attract millions of travelers each summer with promises of emerald waters and white-sand beaches . The problem? With hundreds of miles of picture-perfect shoreline, how does one choose exactly where to go to soak up some sun?

The Gulf Coast has something for every beachgoer. Siesta Key has one of the best beaches in Florida and St. Pete Beach has some of the clearest water, while Bay St. Louis in Mississippi is known for its fresh seafood and charming downtown shops.

Below are seven of the best Gulf Coast beaches where you can park your blanket on soft sugar sand by blue-green waters for some much-needed R&R.

Henderson Beach State Park, Destin, Florida

Welcome to Florida’s Panhandle — the long, narrow strip of land bordered by Alabama, Georgia, and the Gulf of Mexico. In Destin you’ll find prime golfing, a bustling spring break and summer culture, and Henderson Beach State Park . Here, nature trails wind through the 30-foot-tall white dunes and the coastal scrub habitat, where wildlife finds refuge under the pine and oak canopies. Because of its location near the edge of the Continental Shelf, Destin has been dubbed "the world's luckiest fishing village,” where you can cast a line for the blackfin tuna, grouper, amberjack, and king mackerel that gather in the area.

The emerald green waters are calm and shallow making them perfect for snorkeling, kiteboarding, and paddle boarding (keep an eye out for the dolphin pods that take advantage of the fish found just offshore). When you’re not relaxing on the snow-white, soft sands, you’ll find entertainment, rides, and treats like funnel cakes, shaved ice, and “pier-to-plate” seafood at HarborWalk Village . You can also stop by Florida’s largest candymaker for fresh salt water taffy and pralines for shoreline snacking.  

Bay St. Louis Beach, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

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Biloxi gets all the press, but if you have your heart set on a clean, pristine stretch of sand and clear waters, head to the quiet seaside city of Bay St. Louis . The clean, dog-friendly beach here has that white sand the Gulf Coast is famous for so you'll want to camp out for the entire afternoon. Paddle the Grassy Point Blueway in a kayak to really appreciate the gorgeous namesake bay.  

When you’ve caught too much sun, make your way through the shops and restaurants in Old Town Bay St. Louis , right off Beach Boulevard. Grab a cone of lavender-honey ice cream from Creole Creamery , a plate of fresh seafood at the Thorny Oyster , or a frozen concoction at the Daiquiri Shak before you head back to the beach. 

Padre Island National Seashore, Corpus Christi, Texas

This protected stretch of the world's longest barrier island has 66 miles of undeveloped coastline and one of the last intact coastal prairie habitats in the United States . Padre Island National Seashore also borders the Laguna Madre, one of the few hypersaline lagoons in the world. Windsurf the lagoon, lounge on pristine beaches , swim in the calm, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or discover the area's unique environment, home to tidal mud flats, more than 380 different species of birds, and sea turtles whose hatchlings are released around June and August. 

Siesta Key Beaches, Siesta Key, Florida

Jack Elka Photo/Getty Images

The 99-percent pure quartz sand on Siesta Key is always cool to the touch — an important aspect when it comes to vacationing in the Sunshine State, where summer temps average around 90 degrees. You can cool off in the blue-green, shallow waters of this barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Sarasota, Florida or join the drum circle that forms on the beach every Sunday at sunset . Beyond its Edenic shoreline, Siesta Key is known for its fun atmosphere and activities. Go sailing, fishing, or sightseeing out on the water, or hit the oyster bar or Daiquiri Deck at Siesta Key Village. Other than that, all you have to worry about — as the name suggests — is relaxing the day away on your quintessential Florida vacation .    

Orange Beach, Orange Beach, Alabama

This subtropical getaway has that quintessential Gulf Coast look: A long strip of white quartz sand and aquamarine waters. Popular with spring breakers and families alike, Orange Beach has plenty to do and see from the shore and beyond. The water sports hub is perfect for boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and sailing. You can also swim and dive beneath its glassy waters. Spot playful dolphins during a sunset cruise , or paddle along the Back Bay Blueway to see the sugary sand and cypress swamps the Alabama Gulf Coast is known for. When you want to stretch your legs, hop on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail , a 15-mile route that passes through several ecosystems, including those that house otters and alligators.  

Shell Island, Panama City Beach, Florida

Many of Florida ’s beach towns are quaint little seaside respites. Not Panama City Beach , though. Located in the Panhandle, this is the closest you’ll get to Miami’s party beaches so far north. But, if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, it's hard to top a day on nearby Shell Island , which is only accessible by boat and feels like your own private island. The seven miles of wild coast is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew Bay and is a mostly undeveloped oasis perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Keep an eye out for the island’s namesake shells as well as the ample wildlife — like deer, ghost crabs, and sea turtles — that call it home. 

To get here, take the Shell Island Shuttle or the Shell Island Ferry , or rent your own private boat to take over. Don't forget to pack plenty of water and snacks, since the island is void of shops and services.   

St. Pete Beach, St. Pete Beach, Florida

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St. Pete Beach is famous for frequent sunshine, clear Gulf waters, and its 1928, Moorish-Mediterranean “ Pink Palace ” by the sea. It’s a chill resort city on a barrier island off the coast of St. Petersburg, Florida, and is popular with families and couples looking for a friendly, quiet getaway. Walking along the sugar sand shore, swimming, spotting manatees, and celebrating the sunset in front of the Paradise Grille are all popular beach activities here. When you get parched, head to Jimmy B’s Beach Bar behind the Beachcomber Hotel or the wildly entertaining RumFish Grill , where you can dine on fresh seafood surrounded by three giant, colorful aquariums full of snook, tarpons, and stingrays (you can even snorkel in the tanks if you want a more hands-on experience!).  

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19 Best Beach Towns Along Florida's Gulf Coast

Florida's beach towns offer the most attractive, rewarding, and calm atmosphere for tourists to rejuvenate as well as have fun.

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The Hunt For Florida's Best Gulf Coast Beach Towns Continues!

Florida's Gulf Coast is a treasure trove of beach towns worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. With their pristine white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and endless sunshine, these towns offer the perfect escape for anyone looking to rejuvenate and unwind. From the bustling beaches of Key West to the charming cities of Bonita Springs and Miramar, there's something for everyone here.

So, if someone is looking for a beach vacation combining relaxation, adventure, and culture, head down to Florida's Gulf Coast and discover the best beach towns this paradise offers. Tourists will never want to leave with so much to see and do in the Sunshine State.

UPDATE: 2023/04/08 13:57 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with even more of the best Florida Gulf Coast towns, as well as tips for a relaxing beach vacation and things to do at each respective place.

19 Clearwater

• Clearwater is a laid-back, mid-size coastal city.
• Home to the famous Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Located in the Tampa Bay Area, Clearwater, Florida, is a stunning, laid-back town with a population of roughly 120,000. One of the best beach towns on the Gulf Coast of Florida, this place is known as the Sunshine City because of its great weather and bright, sunny conditions.

Clearwater features a 3-mile stretch of white sand backed by hotels and restaurants, all of which make up a lively downtown area. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium also hosts injured sea life and has been documented in various movies, TV shows, and documentaries.

18 Sarasota

• Sarasota is south of Tampa and sits on Florida's Gulf Coast.
• This city was once the winter home of the Ringling Brothers Circus.
• Sarasota is more expensive, pandering to the luxury market.

Another great Gulf-Coast town in Florida worth visiting is Sarasota. This city is south of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast and was once the winter home of the Ringling Brothers Circus. Sarasota, Florida, tends to be more expensive, as it's filled with fine dining, shopping, and luxury homes, apartments, and hotels.

Furthermore, the Sarasota area is home to miles of beaches with soft white sand and shallow waters, including Lido Beach and Siesta Key Beach.

17 Miramar Beach

• Miramar Beach mixes classic Florida charm with upscale amenities and attractions.
• This area is considered one of the more charming towns in Florida.
• There are plenty of places to stay during a trip here, with hotels and condos overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

​​​​​Miramar Beach is among the most charming beach towns on the Florida gulf coast. It is a classical enclave off the coast due to its scenic beach roads, resorts, and magnificent restaurants. In addition, it has beautiful condos with a sweeping view of the Gulf of Mexico.

Ultra-modern facilities are ideal for family trips which are complimented by state-of-the-art shopping experiences. Silver Sands Premium Outlets is one of the most prominent designer outlet spots in the States. So, not only can someone get a tan here, but they'll also be able to stock up on new fashions.

16 Bonita Springs, Florida

• Part of Bonita Springs lies on Hickory Island, separating Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
• Bonita Springs is located in Southwest Florida and features many nearby destinations.
• Bonita Springs regularly makes lists of the top beaches in the state.

Part of Bonita Springs lies on Hickory Island, separating Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The city is in the Southwest of Florida and contains several beaches and parks. It also has a boardwalk and a swimming area dedicated to providing visitors with natural baths and extraordinary relaxed encounters. Tourists attest to why the city was named one of the top ten beaches.

It's also worth mentioning that Bonita Springs Beach offers showers for visitors, as well as on-site parking. There are also play and picnic areas at the Bonita Springs Beach Park, which may be fun for families traveling to the coastal city.

Related: This Florida Key Is The Prettiest, With The Best Views

15 Saint George Island

• Saint George is known for its peacefulness and less-crowded beaches.
• Many beaches and attractions around Saint George, Florida, are pet-friendly.
• Saint George Island State Park offers hiking, water sports, birding, and swimming.

Saint George Island is one of the most therapeutic towns in Florida, making it the ideal travel destination for families. It has unique restaurants and bars that tempt tourists to overspend. The town's exotic nature seems forgotten, but the city is enjoying its natural beauty amazingly. One bonus here is that places around town are pet friendly.

St. George Island State Park offers the best hiking activities, water sports, birding, and swimming. Its luxurious resorts make it a top-rated spot for high-end clients. There's enough luxury to make even a short weekend getaway memorable here.

14 Captiva Island

• Captiva Island is three miles from Fort Myers.
• This town has a vintage charm and unique architecture.
• Captiva has a lively bar and restaurant scene.

Captiva Island is situated approximately three miles from Fort Myers. Its vintage style and charming nature make it one of the most therapeutic beach towns on the gulf coast. People worldwide are curious to discover the nature of a town where no cars are allowed. Even though travelers come to the island with the ultimate goal of disconnecting from the noisy world, they still find plenty of bars and restaurants for enjoyment.

Mucky Duck Restaurant & Bar is colorfully decorated to unravel a nautical feel. Due to its uncrowded nature and warm sandy beaches, Captiva Island is ideal for a family setting that, if lucky, will spot sea life, observe birds, and dance with dolphins.

Captiva Island is within a short drive from Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach, which may be a fun excuse to skip over to the next town for a dual-beach day.

Related: 8 Unique Things To Do In Destin, Florida

13 Cedar Key

• Cedar Key is the second-oldest town in Florida.
• Visitors can explore historic buildings and landmarks throughout this coastal city.
• Cedar Key is known to have beautiful, decade-old cedar trees lining the streets.

Being the second-oldest town in Florida, Cedar Key preserves the heritage of the Gulf Coast. It's one of the best Florida beach towns Gulf Coast destinations have to offer history lovers; this spot boasts charming harbors, historic buildings, and generational businesses built on the shore along the oceanfront. One fascinating reason to visit the city is to witness its enriching history.

After being founded in 1849, the hurricane wiped it away less than a century later. Cedar trees regrew later, making it one of the most picturesque destinations on the gulf coast. Fishing, biking, and kayaking is the ultimate way to enjoy the city.

If someone wants to explore a historical Florida beach town, Cedar Key is a perfect choice. This is the second-oldest established city in Florida, making it ideal for history buffs.

12 Madeira Beach

• Madeira Beach has a rich pirate history.
• There are countless restaurants and shops around Madeira Beach, Florida.
• Visitors may want to check out the Mad Craft brewery after hitting the beach.

Considering the variety of activities and beauty in Madeira Beach, it is undoubtedly one of Florida's best Gulf Coast towns. Travelers can start by visiting John's Pass Village and learn about the pirate who first referred to Madeira Beach as a home.

The town harbors over a hundred restaurants and shopping centers. Foodies and wine lovers are well catered for since Florida Winery offers free tasting. Finally, beer enthusiasts can visit Mad Craft brewing company for a mind-blowing experience.

11 Tarpon Spring

• Tarpon Springs has a thriving Greek community.
• There are many antique stores in Tarpon Springs, Florida.
• Tarpon Springs is known for its sponges brought to shore from nearby waters.

History lovers cannot afford to skip visiting this enriched Florida Gulf Coast town. The city is rich in antique item shops, sponge shops, and art galleries. Some of the best Greek restaurants nationwide are found in this town. Tarpon Springs hosts the largest population of the Greek community, who go down the history as some of the originators of civilization.

Every historian and photographer would want to visit the place, learn about the Epiphany celebration, and capture moments of the Greek Seafood Festival.

Tarpon Springs has a rich Greek history, with many businesses still being Greek owned to this day. Exploring restaurants, hotels, antique stores, and religious sites may be a nice way to catch up with Greek culture.

10 Anna Maria Island

• Anna Maria Island is roughly two miles from Sarasota and its beaches.
• This town has an old-fashioned, "classic Florida" feel.
• Horse riding, shipwrecking tours, and plenty of natural sightseeing are available to visitors.

Anna Mariah Island is approximately two miles from Sarasota on the Gulf Coast. Disallowing huge developments on the land preserves its distinctive old-fashioned feel. Even though it's a small town, Anna Maria Island offers travelers a wide range of activities.

Taking a horse ride on the beach and diving at Bradenton Shipwreck is heavenly. Additionally, the city is home to dolphins, turtles, manatees, and a bird sanctuary, which is handy for photographers. As such, it's one of the best Gulf Coast beach towns in Florida for those who enjoy nature and wildlife.

9 Siesta Key

• Siesta Key is known for its clear, shallow waters.
• There are many shopping malls, bars, and events happening in Siesta Key.
• This is a popular spring break location for Florida residents and those in nearby states.

Its shallow waters, white sand, and tropical feel make it a popular destination for individuals seeking to escape life's daily grind. Plenty of restaurants, some of America's huge shopping malls , bars, and events allow travelers to rejoin the world after rejuvenating their minds. Crescent Beach is ideal for a family setting, and progressing towards limestone rocks to fish is permitted.

It could be fun to plan a trip to enjoy the tours and activities in the Florida Keys , as there's always something to do. This entire area on the Gulf Coast of Florida is jam-packed with beaches, quirky hotels and restaurants, and history that only the Sunshine State can provide.

8 Sanibel Island

• Sanibel Island is a more secluded, quiet beach town in Florida.
• Boating here is a favorite pass time for visitors and residents.
• The area is family-friendly.

Off the coast of Florida stands the quietest, most charming, and most isolated beach town (some even say it's one of the best beach towns to live in , not just visit). Guests who visit this island town have the calmest time of their life, away from the noisy world. It's an excellent pick for a family getaway. Boating and swimming on its white sunny beaches never get old, nor does a walk in its surrounding lush tropical forest.

Sanibel Island is the perfect choice if someone wants to spend a relaxing, quiet week with their family. Because it's smaller and has fewer "big name" stores and events, Sanibel Island tends to have more tranquil year-round energy.

• Seaside is off Highway 30 in South Walton.
• This town is known as one of the cutest in Florida, offering walkable access to nearly everything.
• There are quaint shops, hotels, eateries, and more to explore in Seaside, Florida.

Off-Highway 30A in South Walton, people can find the beautiful small beach town of Seaside, which was designed to be one of the cutest regions in Florida. This gulf coast town is walkable, where the Truman Show was filmed. The atmosphere, architecture, downtown shops, restaurants, and white sand beaches distinguish Seaside. Visitors to the beach town are recommended to dine at Vue, located on 30A and recognized as the region's best waterfront sunset and dining.

6 St. Petersburg

• St. Petersburg features a new pier, white sand beaches, blue water, and many fun events throughout the year.
• This city is known to have some of the best beaches in Florida.

This beach town in Florida is known as the Sunshine City, and it can be easily reached from Clearwater and Tampa. St. Pete Beach, or St. Petersburg, is located on the Gulf Coast in Central Florida and is known as one of the best beach towns in the state. Iconic white sand and turquoise Gulf of Mexico waters set St. Pete's beaches apart.

People visiting this beach town must also explore the hidden Sunken gardens, free murals across the downtown area, museums, beach bars, restaurants, rooftops, and breweries.

5 Henderson Beach State Park, Destin

• This beach town features great camping opportunities.
• Destin, Florida, is known for amazing fishing.

One must not miss the beautiful Henderson Beach State Park on Florida's Emerald Coast. The protected nirvana features innate beauty with a nature trail and 60 campsites. Turtles, dolphins, and birds, including brown pelicans and black skimmers, can be found here. This beach is located in Destin, which is known as the luckiest fishing village in the world.

4 Venice Beach

• Venice Beach is known to be clean.
• This town has been named the "shark tooth capital of the world."
• Nesting turtles can be seen here between May and October.

Tourists flock to Venice Beach in Florida for its pristine conditions, thus ranking it among the top Gulf towns in Florida. They can also benefit from various amenities, including concessions, a boardwalk, volleyball courts, a sail-shaped pavilion, and restrooms. Many tourists consider Venice, Florida, to be a bit of Italy, so that could be fun for those wanting to soak in Italian-inspired cuisine, culture, shopping, etc.

People coming to Venice Beach will spot fossilized shark teeth on the shores of Venice Beach, known as the "shark tooth capital of the world." These teeth can mostly be seen on Venice Jetty. Nestling turtles can also be spotted between May and October in Venice Beach.

Discover even more activities and attractions by checking out the ultimate travel guide to Venice in Florida !

• Key West is at the southernmost tip of Florida.
• This town features some of the state's most popular beaches, as well as the popular Duval Street, where lots of shopping and nightlife takes place.
• Key West is roughly 95 miles from Cuba.

Key West offers plenty of things to do , unsurprising since it is one of the most famous beach destinations in Florida. It marks the end of the road for those traveling down through Florida (although it doesn't need to be the end of the journey - consider taking the ferry to visit Dry Tortugas National Park ).

The island is four miles long and one mile long and is the southernmost end of US Route 1. From Key West, people are only 95 miles from Cuba. One of the island's most popular attractions is the Key West Lighthouse, which people can climb . Also, the island's famous Duval Street is where lots of retail therapy can be enjoyed . Plus, Duval Street offers some excellent nightlife .

Related: This Florida State Park Preserves A Lost & Forgotten Ruin (With A Compelling History)

2 Pensacola

• Pensacola is Florida's westernmost city.
• This beach city is one of the oldest European settlements in the United States.

Out on Florida Panhandle is Pensacola - the westernmost city of Florida. The Florida Panhandle is famous for being distinctly Southern in culture and flavor . It is a city of only 54,000 and is renowned for its stunning beaches. Notably, Pensacola is the site of one of the oldest European settlements in what is today the USA. It was the site of a Spanish settlement even predating that of St. Augustine by six years (in 1559) - although the settlement was abandoned and not inhabited again until 1698.

1 Islamorada

• Islamorada is located between Miami and Key West.
• This area is spread over five islands: Tea Table Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Windley Key, and Plantation Key.

Before holidaymakers get to Key West, they should consider stopping at Islamorada, one of the prettiest Gulf Coast towns in Florida. Islamorada is an incorporated village between Miami and Key West. It is spread over five islands: Tea Table Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Windley Key, and Plantation Key. It has a population of around 7,000 residents and is a great place to enjoy the tropics of the Caribbean.

Gulftreker's US Gulf Coast Travel Guide

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Experiencing the American Gulf Coast from Panama City Beach, Florida, to Biloxi, Mississippi, and Beyond.

Florida panhandle, coastal alabama, coastal mississippi, u.s. gulf coast, travel guide, gulf shores, orange beach, panama city, fort walton, destin, navarre, seaside, alys beach, mobile, dauphin island, biloxi, ocean springs, bay st louis, pensacola beach and gulfport, paperback travel guide available from amazon.

This website is not associated with any government-supported travel information association or office in Mississippi, Alabama, or Florida. It is a privately owned journalistic product. Unfortunately, we do not have any brochures to send out about the events or attractions in the states we cover.

However, a paperback travel guide book, US Gulf Coast Travel Guide , by James Aucoin, published in 2020 is available from Amazon for $19.95 (a Kindle version is available for $9.95). It is a companion book to this website.

Click the book to purchase!

Alabama Coastal Destinations

From water sports, fishing from shore to deep sea,  to on-land entertainment, fabulous restaurants, shopping at outlet malls, ecotourism, adventure sports and more..

Protect the endangered sea turtles while you're on the beach.

• May 25, 2020

Be kind to the wondrous sea turtles

Northwest Florida Destinations

White sand beaches, national and state gulf coast parks, and amazing restaurants and places to stay, enjoy, experience. fishing opportunities abound from deep sea trips to coastal fishing and inland bay and marsh fishing trips., beaches, gorgeous bays, quaint villages, fishing and golf opportunities, unique art museums, and casinos offer memorable vacations..

Mississippi East Gulf Coast Destinations

Art and books.

A listing of art museums and galleries  and great independent bookstores

History Trail

The Gulf Coast has preserved much of its history that you can explore, from Native American mound builders to military adventures and the Civil Rights Movement.

Civil War & African American Heritage Trails

Explore Civil War battlefield s , museums, and cemeteries along the Gulf Coast, or gain an appreciation for African American Cultur e .

Hiking & Biking & Birding Trails

The Gulf Coasts offers a variety of trails whether you are looking for a nature hike, a smooth bike ride or an entry into seeing the hundreds of thousands of migratory birds.

The Gulf Coast is all about having festivals and concerts. Find the listing of annually scheduled events  here.

We have a complete listing for your golf experience in any season. Some of the better professionally designed course are here.

The Gulf Coast offers the best fishing from in-shore to off-shore, here's how to find a tour guide or book a charter boat.

Gulf Coast Eco-Tourism and Adventure Sports

The upper Gulf Coast is a natural wonderland, with  outdoor activities. Adventure tourism or more sedate nature experience is here.

Let's Do Something!

The best is going to the beach, but there's much more happening on the gulf coast. here are links to the areas' calendar of events:           , great books, about the gulf coast of america.

There are many great books about the U.S. Gulf Coast, both nonfiction and fiction. If you're like me, you like to read about a place before or while you're visiting it. Here's a list of books you might like.

Photo by Sunny Lippert

Jack e. davis, the gulf: the making of an american sea.

"Americans were still learning the geography of the Gulf three and a half centuries after Europeans got their first inkling of its existence. The Spanish found the Gulf, the French made its connection to the Mississippi, and the British began charting it. Finally, after America assumed control in the nineteenth century, . . .  coast surveyors captured the Gulf in geographic detail --- where it lapped against sand beaches, slipped into reedy marches, and snuck behind islands up in coves, bayous, and bays. America's sea."

As a professional travel journalist, I excel at providing you with accurate information you can use to plan your perfect American Gulf Coast vacation. Not just any vacation, but truly exceptional trips along the Gulf Coast filled with inspiring and enriching experiences. I have lived on the Gulf Coast for more than 25 years, and I love it. I want to share my love of the Gulf Coast with you, and to create a space where visitors to the Gulf Coast can share their experiences with others as well.

James Aucoin, Editor & Publisher, USGulfCoastTravelGuide.com

Get in Touch

[email protected]

Gulf Shores, Baldwin County 36542 USA

251-223-4080

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Florida Gulf Coast Travel Guide: Road Trip Itinerary

Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast may not be the part of the state that most travelers think about when planning a vacation to Florida, but it’s this fact that makes it one of the state’s most beautiful hidden gems. Between Naples, FL and the Tampa Bay area , travelers can find pristine white sand beaches, barrier islands that boast some of the best sunsets in the world, and plenty of places to wine & dine in true Florida style.

When planning your next Florida vacation, consider Southwest Florida, and check out some of these culinary & cultural spots along the way.

Naples/Marco Island

At the southern end of this Southwest Florida itinerary is Marco Island and the city of Naples, FL. For context, Naples is about an hour and a half drive west across the state from Miami, or a two-and-a-half-hour drive south from Tampa. However, there are airports located in Southwest Florida that you can fly into and stay local to this area such as Naples Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport located closer to Ft. Myers. You can search for flight deals into Florida here .

Naples and Marco Island are both known for beautiful, easily accessible beaches and abundant golf courses, but these aren’t the only draws to this part of the state. The 5th Avenue South neighborhood of Naples is home to plenty of high-end shopping and dining along a sophisticated and lush tropical promenade. With just a casual stroll down 5th Avenue, a wine traveler will notice many cafes, restaurants, and bars to stop for a coffee and gelato, glass of wine, or a delicious meal. Perhaps the best part of the stroll is that it runs into the Gulf of Mexico at Naples’ beach.

Hobnob Kitchen and Bar is a neighborhood favorite with trendy American bistro dishes such as scallop ceviche, octopus appetizers, ample seafood dishes, soups & salads, prime meats, and more! The wine list leans California, but there is something for every dish. It’s a chic but relaxed spot along the Avenue.

If something more casual is what you had in mind, Marco Island south of Naples offers lots of options for waterside dining. CJs on the Bay is a popular sunset-watching cocktail spot. Menu items skew coastal casual with a wide array of options from coconut shrimp to seafood linguini. Check out their daily cocktail specials and leave your wine snob hat at home. It might be more refreshing to sip a Margarita or fruity Daiquiri and enjoy the views at this relaxed waterfront restaurant.

When it comes to lodging , there are many options from glamourous to ticky-tacky depending on your beachy needs. Some of the bigger resorts in the Marco Island area include the luxurious JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort , which is known for its incredible gulf views and several onsite restaurants that include a range of culinary creations from fine dining to tiki hut beachside bars. Alternatively, you can stay at an all-inclusive resort like the The Ritz-Carlton in Naples.

Further north, the Inn on 5th in Naples  is a boutique hotel that sits right on the action of 5th Avenue, close to the picturesque Gulf beaches. Easily walkable to dining and attractions in the South Naples area as well as just a short drive to Southwest Florida’s famous golf courses and other attractions.

Southwest Florida Nature

For nature enthusiasts, there is plenty to do and see within a few miles of the Naples area. Just 30 minutes east of Naples is the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and Blair Audubon Center * . Stroll a 2.5-mile boardwalk system through natural Everglades and see how Florida’s stunning and sometimes scary flora and fauna exist outside of development. This is a must-see for bird watchers and wild animal enthusiasts.

Just north of Naples is the Everglades Wonder Gardens * in Bonita Springs. A perfect stop for the whole family, the Everglades Wonder Gardens is home to alligators, turtles, Flamingos, parrots, and more. Tours are available, but it’s always best to check the website to see when the park is open.

Ft. Myers/Sanibel & Captiva Islands/Boca Grande

About 45 minutes to an hour north of Naples is the Ft. Myers area, which is also home to the barrier islands of Sanibel, Captiva, Gasparilla Island and many more, recognized as some of the premier island escapes in all of Florida.

Head out to Sanibel and Captiva Islands for prime sunset real estate. If you haven’t experienced a Florida Gulf Coast Sunset, put it on your bucket list! Sanibel and Captiva are both excellent locations for those who love “old Florida” beaches and nature parks. A drive through these islands will take you back to the simple life, and that’s exactly what they offer: an escape from the chaos of the mainland.

RELATED: Romantic Getaway: Wine Tasting & Shell Hunting on Sanibel Island

There are several casual dining spots on the islands with fresh seafood and Key Lime pie being menu staples. Rumrunners are the drink of choice for island dwellers, so don’t expect a fancy wine list at most spots. When life gets too crazy, Sanibel and Captiva Islands offer the perfect excuse to sit back, relax, and enjoy the peace that comes with watching the waves roll on the shore.

If you’re looking for “old Florida” lodging during your stay in the Ft. Myers area, check out Tarpon Lodge in Bookelia, Florida . Tarpon Lodge offers accommodations in their 1926 historic lodge building, as well as a private cottage, boathouse, and the more modern Island House. There’s also a four-star dining experience waiting at the Tarpon Lodge restaurant on site.

For those who really want to get off the beaten path, or who enjoy an escape where there are no beaten paths, visit Cabbage Key , Tarpon Lodge’s sister property, only accessible by boat. There are no paved roads on the island, just tropical landscapes, an inn, cottages, bar, and a restaurant that sees daily boaters who stop by for a refreshment and meal.

Boca Grande is a tiny village located on Gasparilla Island, between Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico, that has been the winter home of many famous folks throughout history. Gasparilla Island is named for the pirate, José Gaspar, who may or may not have been a work of fiction. However, it is undisputed that pirates roamed this area as recently as the 1770s.

This area is known as the tarpon fishing capital of the world, and the history of maritime commerce is fascinating, so be sure to read up on the past while you’re here.

Once in Boca Grande, you must check out or stay at the historic Gasparilla Inn , a beautifully restored hotel that opened in 1913. Dine nearby at The Pink Elephant , a charming restaurant serving guests for over 60 years that has been awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence every year since 2012. Diners can enjoy a casual lunch downstairs or on the patio with refreshing cocktails, salads, and sandwiches, or make a reservation for dinner upstairs in the more formal dining room. Travelers arriving by boat even have dockage space for easy access to the restaurant by water.

Spending time on these barrier islands is truly an escape to a bygone paradise on Florida’s southwest gulf coast.

Sarasota/Siesta Key/Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island

Welcome to Florida’s Sun Coast and the slice of the state that boasts the best beach in the country! Imagine sinking your toes into baby powder-soft white sand that is always cool to the touch, no matter the time of day or season. Siesta Key is a barrier island off of Sarasota, which is about an hour south of Tampa Bay, and it has been ranked 2020’s #1 Beach in the U.S. by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards™. Siesta Key and the whole Sarasota area is a boating and beach-lover’s paradise. But the fun doesn’t stop at the shoreline! Sarasota and Manatee Counties are home to culinary and cultural delights from Sarasota’s bayside downtown to the several islands that outline the coast from the almost exclusively private Casey Key to Anna Maria Island that jets into Tampa Bay. Let’s dive into a few spots throughout this part of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

If you’re into bike riding, Casey Key is a beautiful spot in the world to explore on two wheels. Large private homes and a stunning coastline that hugs the road makes Casey Key feel more like an island in your dreams, or a picture-perfect page out of a Mediterranean magazine. It’s home to several small motels, but most overnight accommodations are found on the mainland, or further north in Siesta Key. Casey Key is only accessible to the mainland by two bridges, one on the south end of the island near the city of Venice, Florida, and one on the northern end of the island, known as the historic Blackburn Point Bridge , which is a swing bridge that was opened in 1926 and still swings to this day.

All Casey Key visitors should stop for lunch or dinner at the Casey Key Fish House right past the Blackburn Point Bridge. Easy-going and “keysy,” this island seafood restaurant offers fish house classics and a tropical tiki bar for totally casual dining. If you have access to a boat, simply pull it right up to the dock, and hop-off for easy dockside parking.

RELATED: 18 Incredible Places To Have a Glass of Wine in Miami

Siesta Key is Florida at its best. Between the number one ranked beach in the country and the popular Siesta Key Village with shops and restaurants to fit any desire, there is really no need to leave the island once you are there. There are two ways on and off the island, and one main road that runs the length of it, but most of it can be traveled easily either on foot, bike, free ride, or trolly, which picks up in the Village and runs the length of the island with stops along the way.

Most of the coastline along Siesta Key is speckled with low rise hotels, resorts, motels, and rentals. The island is largely seasonal (a winter escape for cold Midwesterners), meaning there may be minimum stay requirements ranging from nights to weeks at many of the rentals. Although, once you’ve settled into your beachy cabin, you may never want to leave anyway.

When it comes to dining on Siesta Key, there are many options from the world-famous SKOB (Siesta Key Oyster Bar) with live music and happy hour specials daily, to the chic Summer House steak and seafood restaurant, and next door, The Cottage , with an unpretentious yet delicious menu of items like Peruvian Ceviche and cheesy gnocchi for locals and visitors, alike.

Winetraveler Tip: Don’t leave Siesta Key without visiting the beachy chic Siesta Key Wine Bar . It’s the perfect resting spot for a boat-tired wine traveler looking for a glass (or bottle) of something red, white, or rosé. Siesta Key Wine Bar offers an international selection of wines, as well as some sweet Florida favorites at retail prices with only an $8 corkage fee to drink on site.

St. Armands/Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island

Follow the islands on the coast north via downtown Sarasota to Lido and St. Armands Key up through Longboat Key & Anna Maria Island. These islands are mostly residential and hospitality-focused. St. Armands Circle is home to many small restaurants and shops and offers an afternoon full of dining and entertainment. As you drive around the circle, you will find island favorites like Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar and the Spanish tapas spot, Columbia restaurant, as well as locally-inspired retail, salons, and sweet shops.

Perhaps the most quintessential coastal dining is at Shore , which has a location in St. Armands Circle and further up the coast on the northern end of Longboat Key. Both Shore locations offer al-fresco dining, specialty cocktails, classic seafood and American dishes, and cool vibes. If coastal chic is your style, then you must visit the store at Shore, where you can find all the trendiest island wear and accessories.

Anna Maria Island is a Florida getaway in itself, named by the explorer, Ponce de Leon, for the queen of his benefactor, Charles II. Follow the road north where you drive by the beach on the west and adorable island bed & breakfasts, motels, and trinket shops on the other side of the road. It’s a coastal paradise where everything is casual and laid-back. Anna Maria Island offers a true remote Florida vibe across much of the island. You can take a look at some accommodation options on Anna Maria Island here.

Winetraveler Tip: If you are a coconut cake fan, don’t miss Hometown Desserts near the pier on Anna Maria Island. Buy by the slice or a whole cake! Coconut and Key Lime cakes are an island must-eat!

Downtown Sarasota

Bringing it back to the mainland, you don’t want to miss a stop in downtown Sarasota. There are many fantastic places to dine around town, you’ll need weeks to get through them all! We recommend staying in one of these upscale hotels so you can explore at a leisurely pace.

For a true rustic Florida dining experience with some of the best fresh fish in town, head over to Owen’s Fish Camp on Burns Court. The restaurant encompasses several dilapidated bungalows, but the vibe is far from ramshackle. You won’t be disappointed by the quality of your dinner, or the uniqueness of the experience. Leave your pretensions at home but order a bottle of wine from the tightly curated “wine snob” bottle list and enjoy your “so Florida” dinner.

Over near Main Street in downtown, try a locally sourced dish from atmospheric Boca , or walk around the corner for an authentic French meal at C’est La Vie . Every Winetraveler needs a local wine bar, and you get just that at Grand Cru Wine Bar right on Main Street. At Grand Cru, choose your wine and pour it yourself with their wine-on-tap system. A large beer selection is available as well with small dishes freshly prepared on-site.

For waterside dining, check out Marina Jack right on the bay, with plenty of dock space for seaside travelers who arrive by boat, or Jack Dusty at the Ritz-Carlton for a more upscale coastal lounge feel.

Winetraveler Tip: Don’t limit your dining to downtown Sarasota! Southside Village is not far from downtown and offers classic dining spots in a range of cuisines. Grab a specialty coffee or glass of wine at Perq Coffee Bar , sushi at Pacific Rim , seasonal favorites at Libby’s, or oysters at Veronica Fish & Oyster . Southside Village offers a walkable small-town feel with several great dining options.

Sarasota Area Cultural Stops*

If you’ve done all the beaching and boating you can handle, check out some of the cultural spots around the Sarasota area. On the south side of the city near downtown, stroll the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens , a 15-acre tropical plant sanctuary and museum on the bay including the former home of Marie and William Selby.

“Sarasota Modern” is an architecture style that you’ll notice around town, so it’s only right to explore structural design while you’re in town. Check out the exhibits on display at the Center for Architecture Sarasota in downtown for more on what makes this city so stylish.

Further north is the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (“The Ringling”) , which is the official state art museum for Florida. It was established in 1927 and is now run by Florida State University. The museum consists of more than 10,000 items across many exhibits. It is part of the 66-acre Ringling Estate that includes the Ca’d’Zan , which was the Venetian Gothic-style mansion and home of John and Mable Ringling completed in 1926, Mable’s Rose Garden, built in 1913, the Circus Museum, Ringling Art Library, and the FSU Center for the Performing Arts.

*Cultural attractions may be closed or running on limited hours due to COVID-19. Check each website for more information on daily changes.

Tampa Bay is a large area that includes several cities and neighborhoods from Tampa on the east side of the bay to St. Petersburg on the peninsula on the Gulf of Mexico accessible by the infamous Sunshine Skyway Bridge , which is worth the drive over to revel in the engineering marvel of it all. The actual Tampa Bay is a shallow estuary that is 400 square miles in size, meaning this is not just one place to see.

For the purposes of this itinerary, we will pick a couple of places to highlight on your Southwest Florida road trip through the Tampa Bay area.

Downtown St. Pete is a great place to park the car and walk around to explore the many shops and restaurants along tree-lined Beach Drive. Perhaps the greatest attraction here is the new St. Pete Pier that opened in the summer of 2020. The pier is home to quite a few different restaurants and attractions that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

There are several restaurants leading up to the pier itself, such as regional favorite, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille , for the rum enthusiast, and Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro for outdoor seating on the water. However, the spots located inside the actual pier are the main attraction.

Teak is a fine dining restaurant with complete views of the pier, St. Pete, and surrounding Tampa Bay. The bar at Teak overlooks the Bay, and visitors who stop for an Aperol Spritz during the hot afternoons can enjoy watching boats coming and going underneath, while small airplanes take off from the nearby airport and circle overhead.

If rooftop views bring you delight, head to the top of the pier and grab a drink at Pier Teaki , a modern take on a casual tiki bar located on the highest level of the pier with unobstructed views of the surrounding area. Pier Teaki is open late night for nighttime revelers.

Winetraveler Tip: Not feeling like dealing with crowds at the pier? Check out Bacchus Wine Bar in downtown St. Pete. Small & quaint with lots of light, this wine bar has a menu with all of your favorite French bites and bottles from around the world. Worth a stop for a glass during your time in St. Pete.

St. Pete Beach

On the west side of the peninsula on the gulf coast is St. Pete Beach. A neighborhood in itself where visitors can stay in one of the many beach resorts ranging from upscale to economical. Lots of places to choose from make this a traveler’s beach paradise.

Downtown Tampa

Just like a lot of cities around the country, Tampa has been growing quite a bit over the last few years and adding numerous cool spots to explore. This growth has allowed for new restaurants and attractions to pop up all over the downtown area. Two main destinations bookend the downtown river boardwalk, and there are several accommodation options not far from the area .

Armature Works is a mixed-use building in the Tampa Heights neighborhood, right on the Hillsborough River. It resembles a food hall, public market, and more! The vibe is industrial chic with dining options for every taste bud.

On-site, you can have a glass of wine from Cru Wine Bar , located on the main level,  or head upstairs to the rooftop bar, M. Bird , for a classy cocktail while you watch the sunset over the Hillsborough River.

Throughout the Armature Works area, there is plenty of outdoor space and seating for people watching and family playtime. It’s a destination worth a day or full evening visit for eating, drinking, and hanging out in Tampa.

Next door to Armature works is Ulele , a “Florida”-style restaurant with a rustic-chic vibe and large menu with many seafood favorites. Great for dates or a special occasion, even if the occasion is a regular Tuesday night.

On the other side of downtown Tampa is Sparkman Wharf , another outdoor dining destination with many options for food, drinks, and entertainment. Sparkman Wharf has a dining garden full of containers of Tampa’s top culinary talent trying new concepts alongside craft brewers. It’s a relaxed place to grab a plate of something new, a craft beer, and hang out by the river.

No trip to Tampa would be complete for Winetravelers without a visit to Bern’s Steakhouse . Bern’s is one of the most famous steakhouses and boasts one of the largest wine collections in the world. Come with an open mind and adventurous palate, and let the sommelier choose bottles for you based on your price range. Don’t skip on dessert, as Bern’s is well-known for its sensual Harry Waugh dessert room, where enjoying a sweet treat is an entire experience in itself.

This itinerary is by no means an exhaustive list. There are many hidden gems along Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast. Start with some of these ideas and run with it! Explore & discover! The options for entertainment, dining, and adventure are endless.

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The Ultimate Texas to Alabama Beaches Road Trip

In gulf shores & orange beach.

Living near San Antonio, I can be toes in the sand at the Texas Gulf Coast in about three hours. While Texas shores are about 200 miles from where I live, Alabama’s beaches are better. In fact, I think the beaches on Alabama’s Gulf Coast near the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are some of the best beaches in the continental United States. 

Gulf Shores, Alabama is about 750 miles away and around 12 hours in the car, but it’s well worth the drive time. It 1,000% pays off and the beach experience is so incredible.

Driving to Alabama Beaches from Texas

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Texas, plug in the numbers and see what the distance and drive time is. Starting in west or north Texas means a longer haul but if you live in those parts of the state, a drive to any beach requires some commitment. However, from most major Texas cities, driving to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is an easy (and fun) day trip. 

• Houston to Gulf Shores: 520 miles and about an eight-hour drive. 
• Dallas Fort Worth to Gulf Shores: 655 miles and about a 10-hour drive.
• Austin to Gulf Shores: 685 miles and about a 10-hour drive.

In my opinion, Alabama beaches really are better beaches. The water is clearer, the fine sugar-white sand beats Texas’ golden sand, which is heavier in clay content, and there are more restaurants and beach activities to choose from in Alabama Beaches. 

How to Get from Texas to Alabama

How far is Texas from Alabama? Not terribly far! Interstate 10 runs east-west across Texas. Starting from near San Antonio, I pick up I-10 just a few miles from my house and ride it all the way through the southeast. I detour onto I-12 to skirt around New Orleans traffic but otherwise, it’s a straight shot until you see the exit signs that take you to Gulf Shores. Easy peasy. 

For me, the biggest headache traveling from San Antonio is navigating Houston’s heavy traffic but once you clear that, the drive is a nice one. We also occasionally see a short backup in Baton Rouge. 

Alabama Road Trip Stops

Our favorite foodie places to stop are Beaumont and Lake Charles. Both have excellent food scenes from locally owned restaurants serving Cajun and Creole delights, as well as a large selection of fast food and quick service restaurants for those who just want to fuel up and get on their way. If you time it right, Insane Sausages in Vinton Louisiana is the perfect place for boudin lovers. Insane Sausages is only open Friday-Sunday so if that lines up with your travel, stop in to see what creative special they have.

For me, the drive time to get from San Antonio to Gulf Shores is about 12 hours, and stops can add up to make for a very long day. If we get started later in the day, we’ll usually spend the night in Gulfport, Mississippi and finish the drive the next day. Gulfport has plenty of places to eat and sleep a short distance from the highway. 

Other places for a pit stop that have a good selection of gas and food are Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Hattiesburg, and Mobile . Some of the Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama stretches of highway don’t have lights outside of the cities so if you don’t like driving in the dark, plan to leave Texas early in the morning, especially during the seasons where the sun sets early. 

Things to Do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

There’s so much to do in Alabama Beaches — literally every beachy thing you can think of. From parasailing to eco tours  and  sandcastle building classes , the offerings in Alabama’s beaches can keep you as busy as you want to be. It’s also the perfect place for doing anything your heart desires.

And, even though the phrase “something for everyone” is supremely overused, no matter what the makeup of your group or what you like to do, this truly is a place where everyone will be happy. There are a lot of beach house rentals and resorts that accommodate families of all sizes and multi-gen travel groups that give everyone their space. If you’re looking for a vacation spot where your group can do things together as well as apart, Gulf Shores will fit the bill. 

Gulf Shores also has the best family-friendly spring break activities . If you’re looking to schedule a spring break beach trip and don’t want to run into the party-hearty college crowds, this is your place. 

Some of my Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Favorites

No Alabama road trip itinerary is complete with a visit to a few of these places. It’s hard to have favorites but here are a few spots that we recommend:

• Sandcastle Building Class with Sand Castle University : If you’re staying beachfront, the class will come to you. 
• Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo : This small zoo is a true gem and is easy to navigate in half a day. There are elevated animal encounters, such as hanging out up close and personal with lemurs, and a mind-blowingly good restaurant that is far beyond what you’d expect to find at a zoo. 

• The Wharf Entertainment District : Dining, shopping, an escape room, and a very cool Ferris wheel are just some of the activity choices at The Wharf. If you’re traveling without kids or can escape them for a bit, there’s also a really fun speakeasy here. The challenge of finding it and getting in is part of the adventure!
• The Hangout : Not only is this a fantastic place to grab food — and you will not find a shortage of delicious things to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach — it’s got fun games, a place for the kids to run around, and even a foam machine. Who doesn’t love a good foam party? Arrive hungry and grab delicious food with waterfront views and stay for the fun. 
• Historic Fort Morgan : This National Historical Landmark is a former outpost where soldiers protected and watched over Mobile Bay and the best place to learn the history of the area. Plus, you can get some fascinating views from the top of the fort.  

Plan Your Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Adventure

Knowing the lay of the land before you go makes for the best vacation. Even if you’ve been to Alabama Beaches before, there might be something new to check out, and even if you’ve visited multiple times, there’s probably something you haven’t done. It’s a good place to get out of your comfort zone and an equally good place to sink into the comfort of enjoying the same beach things you’ve always enjoyed. 

Whether you’re going for the first time or the tenth, order a free vacation guide and see what’s new as you begin planning your Alabama Beaches trip itinerary. You can also subscribe to get email updates , so you’ll be the first to know about specials and new activity options. 

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Cajun Man's Swamp Tours - Houma

Cajun Man's Swamp Tours near Houma, Louisiana, offers amazing tours filled with alligators, bird watching, and so much fun.

Cajun Man's Swamp Tours

If you are looking for a Houma, Louisiana Swamp Tour, you are going to love Captain Billy Gaston. This was one of the best swamp tours in Houma, LA , we have done.

We are still in awe of how many gators we saw and how they come when Capt. Billy calls for them. Yes, you read that correctly. Captain Billy calls out for the gators and all of a sudden; you see them swimming toward the boat like swamp puppies.

I had never thought of a gator as a swamp puppy until this tour. They were so excited approaching the boat with their tails wiggling.

You may even have the chance to feed one of the gators on your Cajun Man's Swamp Cruise .

Captain Billy has experience as an alligator hunter for over 30 years but thankfully the only hunting for gators on these tours is with your camera .

We were really impressed with the knowledge Captain Billy shared as our tour guide. He grew up in the Southern Louisiana Bayous and it shows.

He was able to easily point out local wildlife, birds, and share how different things in the bayou were used in history. His passion for the bayou showed during the tour.

Wildlife/Birds

In addition to gators, we saw Bald Eagles, Limpkin, Roseate Spoonbill, Common Gallinule, turtles, Cattle Egrets, Anhinga, Great Egrets, Prothonotary Warblers, Great Blue Heron, a Yellow Billed Cuckoo, and more.

You may also see hawks, owls, migratory birds and more depending on the time of year you are visiting.

While specific animal sightings can't be guaranteed, there is always something amazing to see in the Louisiana Bayou.

Don't forget to bring your camera! We took so many photos on our swamp tour it was hard to decide which ones to share.

If you are a birder you will want to bring binoculars to look for birds in the Spanish Moss and Cypress swamp.

Why you will love Cajun Man's Swamp Tours

• Possibly feed a wild alligator
• Best Cajun Country Swamp Tours
• Enjoy authentic Cajun Music
• Covered roof on the boat keeps out any rain and the hot direct sun
• Fully narrated adventure through the Louisiana Bayou

You can also arrange a private tour with Captain Billy. He does alligator tours, eagle and photo tours, and more.

Captain Billy can even arrange for there to be a local Cajun musician onboard for private tours. Tourists and locals will love this Louisiana Bayou Tour!

Things to know when planning a visit to Cajun Man's Swamp Tours

Address - Tours leave from Bob’s Bayou Black Marina at 251 Marina Dr. Gibson, Louisiana 70356

(off Hwy 182)

Phone -  Call Captain Billy at 985-868-4625

Reservations - Make sure to make a reservation for your tour!

Regular Tour Times include -

Monday - Saturday

10:30 AM (1.5 - 2 hour tours)

1:30 PM (1.5 - 2 hour tours)

2:00 PM (1.5 - 2 hour tours)

Accessibility - The parking lot is gravel with designated accessible parking spaces near the marina entrance.

There is a small step to get up onto the boat. Once on the boat the floor is one level with bench seating.

Plus Size Seating - The swamp boat has padded bench seats running along the side of the boat that were pretty comfortable.

Dress Code/Suggestions - casual, something you don't mind possibly getting splashed with swamp water, depending on where you sit on the boat.

We sat at the front of the boat and had some splashing on our way back to the marina. I was thankful I was wearing rubber Birkenstocks that could handle getting wet.

Pets - Pets are not allowed on the boat. Trust me you do not want to bring your pet on a gator tour.

Parking   - There is a $3 fee to park at Bob's Bayou Black Marina which you can pay at the marina desk. They will give you a card to place on your dashboard.

Restaurants and Attractions nearby

Best Things to do in Houma, LA - All of the best attractions and things to do while visiting Houma. Don't miss the Crawfish trail, Greenwood Gator Farm & Tours, and so much more!

Houma Restaurants - The best restaurants including family-friendly, Cajun, breakfast, and so much more.

Cristiano Ristorante - One of the best Italian restaurants we have tried. The fresh pasta is unbelievable.

Additional Gulf Coast of Louisiana Articles

Southern Louisiana is filled with great cities including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and more.

Cafe du Monde French Quarter  - New Orleans bucket list destination with amazing beignets and chicory coffee. A must-visit in the Big Easy!

Carousel Bar  - Visit this iconic New Orleans Bar, where you can sit at the carousel and enjoy a great drink.

Steamboat Natchez  - Check out this historic steamroller cruise along the Mississippi River.

Gambino's Bakery  - World-famous king cakes and the original Doberge Cake.

Sazerac House  - Learn more about the history of the Sazerac and Peychaud's Bitters.

Palace Cafe New Orleans  - Famous Canal Street restaurant with flaming bananas foster and great food.

Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations including  Gulf Shores ,  Orange Beach ,  Dauphin Island ,  Fairhope ,  Fort Morgan ,  Foley , Mobile, Alabama and so many more!

Keep an eye out for articles on the Gulf Coast of  Alabama ,  Mississippi ,  Louisiana , Texas, and  Florida !

Check out our  Facebook  and  Instagram  and  TikTok  pages for more great ideas for the Gulf Coast.

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Coastal Mississippi Is Back–And Now's The Time To Visit These Beautiful Towns

Beautiful coastal Mississippi towns have moved beyond a historic storm to rebuild and reimagine their very special stretch of the Gulf.

Valerie Fraser Luesse has been affiliated with Southern Living and its parent company since 1988. She has written some 30 Southern Journal essays for the magazine and extensively covered the unique cultural pockets of the South, including Acadian Louisiana, the Mississippi Delta, South Florida, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She released her fourth Southern novel with Revell in 2021.

Planning for The Future

Turning a visit into forever, building a family business, bursting with local pride.

Here's what many people don't know, or at least don't recall, about Hurricane Katrina : While the first hurricane landfall caused deadly flooding in New Orleans and South Louisiana, the second virtually erased Mississippi's beachfront, battering coastal communities with winds topping 100 miles per hour and a storm surge of over 20 feet. That was in 2005.

Today, visit any of the communities from Ocean Springs, D'Iberville, and Pascagoula on the east end to Bay St. Louis and Waveland on the west, and you'll see that the Mississippi Gulf Coast didn't just come back—it revitalized its future.

Once again, the shipyards in Pascagoula are humming, artists are flocking to creative hot spots like Bay St. Louis and Ocean Springs, and the restaurant scene is exploding, with young guns joining stalwarts to create enough delicious food to keep your treadmill in overdrive.

Boutique hotels are appearing in waterfront towns that were once dependent on chain lodging if they had any at all. Popular MGM Park and the new Mississippi Aquarium have joined other landmark attractions like the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art and Walter Anderson Museum of Art to attract more and more tourists. Opened last year, the sleek and modern Hotel Legends overlooks the water in Biloxi near crown jewel Beau Rivage Resort & Casino . The Gulfport Harbor is a gathering spot, featuring a marina and an amphitheater at Jones Park. And Bay St. Louis got its first municipal marina. How did it happen?

"I've kind of lived Hurricane Katrina almost every day since it made landfall," says Ashley Edwards, president and CEO of the Gulf Coast Business Council. Edwards worked on recovery under two governors before heading the council. Job one after Katrina, he said, was to heed the lessons that were learned from this coast's previous storm of record, Hurricane Camille (1969): Plan before you build.

By 2006, after strategically engaging the community as well as experts from around the world, the coast had charted its course but still faced more disasters, including a recession, the BP oil spill, and algae. Ever optimistic, locals point to billions of dollars that have flowed into their towns because of the hardships. "We have about $2 billion in funds that will come to the Mississippi Gulf Coast over the next 10 years as a result of the 2010 oil spill, a lot of which has not yet been spent," Edwards says. "With that in mind, we have more new investment coming than just about any other region in the country."

Add to that investment the area's great diversity—Black, Hispanic, Slavonian, Croatian, French, Italian, and Vietnamese communities are all part of its cultural fabric—and you have a string of unified but not homogeneous towns. "The coast is just unlike the rest of the state," says Anita Lee, a longtime staff writer for the Sun Herald in Biloxi. "I say that as someone who grew up in the other part of Mississippi. We've kind of got our own little world down here."

Three key GPS coordinates in this little world lead you to Ocean Springs, Pass Christian, and Bay St. Louis.

Ted and Roxy Condrey moved to Ocean Springs for a real estate project and found the coastal village overflowing with great art, interesting galleries and shops, and people who loved living here. "Within a year, we'd decided that we'd stay a little longer," Roxy remembers, "and then 'a little longer' turned into 13 years. Now I have no intention of going anywhere."

The Condreys first opened the two-room Inn at Ocean Springs downtown. Next came The Roost , a beauty of a boutique property, which the Condreys and some business partners debuted in 2017 on Porter Avenue and continue to expand. Last year, the couple completed The Beatnik , with four modern cabins, two of which are outfitted with bunk beds for families. Next comes the Ocean Springs Collective , a 3-acre property across the street from The Beatnik. It includes a gym, with more to come, like an independent bookstore and a nanobrewery along with restaurants, a garden, a market, and space for live music. An efficiency motel is also in the works.

New development complements what was already there—a lovely coastal town rich with artists, shops, good food, and community spirit.

Jourdan Nicaud is probably very tired of explaining why he tossed his med-school plans to open Bacchus on the Beach restaurant in 2011—but he's far too polite to say so. At least now, the Pass Christian native can just point to an explanation: He has six restaurants and counting, from Bay St. Louis to Ocean Springs; the Hotel Pass Christian has successfully opened; plus there's more lodging in the works. And he's still a long way from turning 40. Nicaud and his brother/business partner, Field, have built a thriving food-and-hospitality company together.

"Field and I grew up on the Gulf Coast," Nicaud explains. "We've always really loved food, and we've traveled a lot. Our goal was to take everything that we've experienced back to the Gulf and help bring out its local flavors as well."

The Nicaud Restaurant Group has a diversified portfolio, including Bacchus in Pass Christian and Field's Steak & Oyster Bar in Bay St. Louis.

The brothers have been staying busy adding four hotel rooms to their Rooftop Taco & Tequila Bar in Ocean Springs, converting the old Josette's costume store in downtown Biloxi into new apartments, and generally following their instincts and their vision to keep creating all kinds of new properties that make sense for their community.

It's no secret that the farther west you travel along the Mississippi coast, the stronger you'll hear the call of New Orleans . Once you hit the waterfront in Old Town Bay St. Louis, you might as well be in the French Quarter. Many locals here have New Orleans roots, and this little burg is all about letting those bons temps rouler. It's artsy, funky, and quirky yet still peaceful and relaxing, with the unhurried, y'all-come-on-in attitude of a small Southern town: NOLA, meet Mayberry.

Steve Barney, executive director of The Arts, Hancock County believes this village has even more creative residents now than before Katrina. "Not only did the artists who were displaced by the storm come back, but there are also hundreds of people like me who have found that this is the place to move," Barney says.

For some, it began with the harbor.

"We now have this magnificent harbor where you can literally get off your boat and you're in town," says Nikki Moon, owner of the Bay Town Inn Bed & Breakfast in Old Town. "The harbor was a huge start to bringing our beachfront back."

Moon's neighbor and friend Sarah Cure Clark is a third-generation member of a Gulf Coast oystering family. Seeing the need for a hotel in Bay St. Louis, they built one, which opened in 2020 and overlooks the downtown and marina. The boutique property is appropriately named the Pearl Hotel , with a bar called Hinge and two restaurants, Cosmos and Thorny Oyster (both owned by Amy and Jeff Hansell, who are general manager and chef, respectively). Curated visuals throughout the Pearl tell the fascinating story of the Cure family's oystering heritage.

Local pride is huge down here. So is cooperation. "You know, a storm has a funny effect in that it pulls people together," says Blake Kaplan, executive editor of the Sun Herald. "Right after a storm, you may not know your neighbors, but in a time of crisis, you meet them and swap a cup of sugar for some propane or something like that. It's like a team-building exercise under the worst circumstances. But we've come back strong—and better, I think—and we're looking forward to the future."

This story originally ran in the June 2021 issue of Southern Living.

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