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Home » North America » Florida

Epic Florida Road Trip Guide for 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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Florida USA Road Trips Costs

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

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

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

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

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

Average Costs of Florida Road Trips

Rental car:  $30-$100

RV rental:  $100-$300

Gallon of gas:  $2.85

Average AirBnB:  $120

Hotel room:  $140

Hostel:  $25-$35

Campground:  $5-$20 (sometimes free!)

Sandwich:  $6-$8

Beer at a bar:  $4-$8

Coffee:  $2-$4

Bottle of Whiskey from market:  $18

Dinner for two:  $30-$60

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

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

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

You do the math. 😉

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

4 Days: Road Trip to the Florida Keys and Everglades

Day 1: Everglades

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

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

Day 2: Everglades

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

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

Day 3: Florida Keys

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

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

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

Day 4: Florida Keys

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

7 Day Florida Itinerary: A1A Florida Road Trip

7 Days: A1A Florida Road Trip

Day 1: Key West

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

Day 2: Fort Lauderdale

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

Day 3: Cocoa Beach

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

Day 4: St Augustine

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

Day 5: Jacksonville/Amelia Island

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

Day 6: Vero Beach/Miami

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

Day 7: Miami

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

• Little Havana
• Coral Gables
• Design District

14 Day Florida Itinerary: Ultimate Florida Road Trip

14 Days: Ultimate Florida Road Trip

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

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

Day 7: Emerald Coast

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

Day 8: Emerald Coast

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

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

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

Day 9: Tampa Bay

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

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

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

Day 10: Tampa Bay

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

• Caladesi Island
• Honeymoon Islands
• Clearwater Beach

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

Day 11-12: Everglades *

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

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

Day 13: Miami

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

• Little Haiti

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

Day 14: Miami

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

*Indicates that this day was copied from a previous itinerary

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

Road Trip to Miami

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Hostels in Miami

Epic Places to Visit in Miami

Miami Itinerary

Where to Stay in Miami

Road Trip to Fort Lauderdale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip to the Florida Keys

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip to the Everglades

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip to Tampa Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip to Orlando

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Airbnbs in Orlando

Best Places to Visit in Orlando

Best Things to Do in Orlando

Where to Stay in Orlando

Road Trip on the Atlantic Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip to the Florida Panhandle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Off the Beaten Path Florida Road Trip Destinations

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

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

Roadside Attractions in Florida

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

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

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

Florida Scenic Drives

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

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

Best Diving in Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Budget Accommodation for a Florida Road Trip

Camping in Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Visit this Part of the World

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

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

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

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

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

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers and Road Trippers

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

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

Camping in Florida – Gear Checklist

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

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

Travel Security Belt

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

Microfiber Towel

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

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

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

‘Monopoly Deal’

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

Hanging Laundry Bag

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

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

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

Books to Read during your Florida Road Trip

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

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

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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

Make Money Online whilst Traveling in Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Saving Money on Car Rentals in the US

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

Food in Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get your Buzz On

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Being a Responsible Backpacker in Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

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Ultimate Florida Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

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

The ultimate road trip itinerary in Florida

What is the ultimate florida road trip itinerary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Driving from Jacksonville to Orlando

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

Road trip route from Jacksonville to Orlando

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

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

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

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

Things to explore on the way to Orlando

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Orlando: get your theme park fix

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

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

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

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

Click here to skip back to the top.

Day 2: Driving from Orlando to Miami

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

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

Road trip route from Orlando to Miami

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

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

Things to explore on the way to Miami

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Orlando to Miami

Day 3: Driving from Miami to Key West

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

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

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

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

Road trip route from Miami to Key West

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

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

Things to explore on the way to Key West

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

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

Where to stay in Key West: relax in subtropical style

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Miami to Key West

Day 4: Driving from Key West to Fort Myers

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

Road trip route from Key West to Fort Myers

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

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

Things to explore on the way to Fort Myers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5: Driving from Fort Myers to Tampa

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

Road trip route from Fort Myers to Tampa

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

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

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

Things to explore on the way to Tampa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Driving from Tampa to Destin

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

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

Road trip route from Tampa to Destin

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

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

Things to explore on the way to Destin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Driving from Destin to Jacksonville

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

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

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

Road trip route from Destin to Jacksonville

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

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

Things to explore on the way to Jacksonville

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to see on the ultimate road trip in Florida

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

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

Best time to go on the ultimate road trip in Florida

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

Traveling in winter

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

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

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

Traveling in summer

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

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

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

Traveling in spring or fall

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

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

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2-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 3, 2024

Enjoy my personal favorite 2-week Florida road trip itinerary, based on my experiences of growing up in the state.

There are plenty of incredible things to do in Florida . And taking a trip around Florida is a great idea, whether you go solo or with friends and family.

While there are many great places to visit in the US, Florida is a destination on its own.

Known for its beaches, sunshine, wildlife and a variety of attractions, Florida has so much to offer a traveler. 

Whether you’re visiting from out of the country or just out of state, taking a road trip through Florida will give you the best opportunity to see and do amazing things.

From racing through all of the rides at the theme parks in Orlando to being lazy along the beaches of Daytona or Miami , you can go as fast or slow as you like. 

Find yourself immersed in the history of St. Augustine , the oldest town in North America, or at the cutting edge of space at the Kennedy Space Center.

Absorb the Latin and Caribbean influence in Miami’s Little Havana or Tampa’s Ybor City or set out to explore the wildlife and uniquely Floridian landscapes of the Everglades or the Florida Keys. 

There really is so much to do, and you’ll find some of the best beaches in the country here. And driving gives you the best opportunity to experience Florida at its finest.

So let’s get into this incredible Florida road trip. 

Table of Contents

Arrive in and Enjoy Orlando (3 days)

Drive to st. augustine (1 day) / daytona beach (1 day), drive to miami with stops at kennedy space center and/or cocoa beach (1 day), explore miami (3 days), road trip to key west (1-2 days), take in key west (1-2 days), make your way to tampa (2 days), return to orlando (1 day), to/at the florida panhandle, northeast florida, condensed florida road trip itinerary, beginning your 2-week florida road trip.

Where you begin your ultimate Florida road trip is up to you. If you are driving your own vehicle into or from another part of the state, then pick up on this itinerary at its closest destination.

For example, if you’re traveling from the East Coast then you’ll likely take Interstate 95 straight down and your first stop would be St. Augustine or Daytona Beach. 

But if you are flying into Florida then we’d recommend you consider both beginning and ending your Florida road trip in either Orlando or Miami.

This road trip in Florida is circular , so you can pick up on it wherever it is most convenient for you.

But Orlando is in Central Florida, has a great airport for both domestic and international flights and will allow you to strike off in any direction you’d like. 

On that note, let’s begin! 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

If you are flying into Florida, Orlando is a great place to begin your Florida road trip. It is located right in Central Florida so you can start off in any direction.

There is a large international airport that will allow you many rental car options. And there are also plenty of awesome things to do in Orlando itself.

So whether you are flying in on a long journey and want a few days to adjust or you are ready to hit the road, Orlando is your best first stop. 

Orlando is most known for its various theme parks. But there are also plenty of other great things to do in Orlando . 

You could easily spend a few days at either Disney World or Universal Studios parks. 

Disney World offers great attractions such as the iconic Magic Kingdom and Epcot as well as rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain.

Spend time exploring Downtown Disney whether you venture into the park or not. 

At Universal Studios you can see your favorite superheroes and ride The Hulk, Spiderman, Transformers and Revenge of the Mummy.

Of course, if you’re a fan of Harry Potter you can’t pass up the opportunity to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter through either Universal or it’s joint park Islands of Adventures. 

If you’re just looking for a great place to people-watch while grabbing a delicious bite to eat and maybe a concert or show of some sort, Universal City Walk at the front gates of the park will keep you busy for hours. 

If you’re not interested in theme parks, head down to International Drive and take your pick of entertainment options. You could walk or drive your way through days of activities.

A few of our favorite ideas are I-Drive Nascar, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, iFly indoor skydiving and Wonderworks . 

There are tons of great restaurants in this part of Orlando and most hotels along I-Drive have shuttles that will take you to virtually all of the top Orlando attractions.  

READ MORE: Plan the perfect 3 days in Orlando with this itinerary .

After leaving Orlando you can literally head in any direction. But we recommend that you start by heading northeast along Interstate 4 toward Daytona Beach.

The drive will take approximately 1 hour and will connect with Interstate 95.

From here you can either stop for the day in Daytona Beach or travel another hour north to St. Augustine.

You could also travel inland through the Ocala National Forest State Park or Blue Spring State Park, for scenic views on the way to St. Augustine.

If you spend the day in St. Augustine don’t worry as you’ll pass right through Daytona Beach on your way to Miami. 

But we’d recommend that you plan to visit St. Augustine as it is the oldest city in America and is full of history and the small-town charm for which Florida is known.

In St. Augustine, the obvious first thing you’re going to want to do is to explore the historic fort, Castillo de San Marcos . Built by the Spanish who settled the area, this fort has seen it all over the past few hundred years. 

Then wander through Old Town St. Augustine along St. George Street . Grab a bite to eat at The Columbia restaurant and wash that down with ice cream or other sweets from Kilwins .

Step into whatever shop grabs your attention to pick up a souvenir or anything you might have forgotten to pack.

Pick up a bottle of wine from San Sebastian Winery or some whiskey from Ice Plant Bar . And be sure to catch the sunset from at or along the Bridge of Lions . 

There are several beaches to enjoy, a lighthouse you can climb and a fun trolley that will take you all over the small city and fill you in on the history and quirky facts of the area. 

It’s only a 40-minute drive north to Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach if you have time and are interested.

READ MORE: Check out these great things to do in St. Augustine

From St. Augustine, you will drive an hour south on Interstate 95 to reconnect with Daytona Beach .

If you didn’t stop before, now is a great time to spend a day enjoying a world-famous beach that came to fame for the car races that eventually launched NASCAR and the famous Daytona 500 . 

While the races are now held at their own huge Daytona International Racetrack (worth a stop if you are interested in car racing) Daytona Beach remains one of the few beaches in Florida where you can still drive on the beach.

You could spend a few days relaxing at Daytona Beach in one of the many oceanfront hotels or resorts. But to keep things moving, we’d advise just one day here. 

Read Next: Check out our post on all of the best things to do in Florida!

After leaving Daytona you will become pretty familiar with Interstate 95 as it will take you around 4 hours to travel south to Miami along the Atlantic Coast.

But there is a great stop along the way to break up the drive about an hour south of Daytona. 

The Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is the heart of NASA’s space program when it comes to launching spacecraft.

From Apollo 11 to the Space Shuttle program to the next phase in space travel to the moon, Mars and beyond, KSC deserves a stop from a historical standpoint.

You can easily make a day trip from Orlando if you’d prefer to keep moving.

But if you have ever wanted to see any of the rockets that have carried astronauts to the moon, or even have the chance to meet and have lunch with an astronaut, then make time for KSC. 

If you’re more into surfing than into space, the world-famous Cocoa Beach is right next door.

Stop into Ron Jon’s Surf Shop to pick up your beachwear for the rest of the Florida road trip or take your photo with the statue of Kelly Slater , the hometown surf hero and arguably best surfer of all time.  

You can quickly hop back onto Interstate 95 and continue the 3-hour drive south to Miami. 

Fort Lauderdale, Vero Beach, and West Palm Beach are also on the route to Miami.

As a big city, Fort Lauderdale is packed with shopping, skyscrapers, restaurants, and a few nice beaches. It’s nothing super special in my opinion, but if you want to include another stop on the way to Miami you can stop in Fort Lauderdale for lunch!

No Florida road trip is complete without a stop in Miami. And while you could easily plan a whole vacation around the city itself, we’d recommend no fewer than 3 days here.

If you’re planning to drive to Key West (which we highly recommend!) then you may want to give yourself one day in Miami between Key West and Tampa just to break up the drive.

Otherwise, there is no end to the number of things you can do in Miami!

We’d advise that you divide your time in Miami between Miami Beach and the downtown area.

Plus there are a lot of great things to do in the near vicinity of Miami – including day trips to the Everglades National Park which houses the Shark Valley Visitor Center, and to Biscayne Bay National Park . 

Miami Beach is best known for the glitz and glamour of South Beach . And while you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy this part of the beach, you’ll definitely find plenty of ways to spend money at the many shops, restaurants and bars that line South Beach. 

Here there are also nearly a dozen beaches spread out along the ocean for you to enjoy. Many will offer kayak and SUP rentals and some will be less crowded than others. 

In downtown Miami, there is also plenty to explore.

From enjoying the Cuban influence on the city in Little Havana , where you can sip Cuban coffee and eat authentic Cuban sandwiches, to admiring the massive amount of street art of Wynwood Walls , you are sure to stay entertained.

Enjoy Bayside Market or the Wharf to gawk at mega yachts, or take a sunset cruise along Millionaire’s Row to see some of your favorite celebrities’ homes.

If you’re interested in professional sports, Miami has them all depending on the season. 

READ MORE: Plan your perfect 3 days in Miami with this itinerary . 

From Miami, you are within a 4-hour drive to Key West. This drive is in itself one of the top Florida road trips and well worth the time. 

Although Key West should be your ultimate destination for this part of the road trip, it is going to be incredibly tempting to stop at many places along the drive.

The northern Florida Keys (smaller islands) tend to feel much like the rest of the state of Florida.

But once you get around halfway down the Florida Keys you will see the stunning crystal blue water, flourishing palm trees and coral-white sandy beaches for which the Keys are known. 

Some great stops along this portion of the Florida Keys road trip include: 

• Islamorada – See (and/or feed) massive tarpon at Robbie’s Marina
• Marathon Key – Count all of the miles as you drive across the 7-mile bridge
• Big Pine Key – Enjoy a few hours (or the day) at the pristine Bahia Honda State Park 
• Key Largo – Snorkel or kayak in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Once you reach Key West you will immediately see and feel the vibrant life for which the island is known.

From the colorful houses and buildings to the nightly sunset celebrations, Key West is all about the high quality of living. 

Depending on how long you took to drive from Miami to Key West, you’re going to want to spend at least 1-2 days taking in the sights.

Of course, when you are in Key West you have to visit the Southernmost Point in the US . There’s a statue in the shape of a buoy that you can’t miss.

Wander through the old, colorful neighborhoods and be entertained by the quirky merchandise advertised in storefronts along Duval Street .

You could also spend the day on the water, renting everything from kayaks and SUPs to jet skis, powerboats or even going for a parasailing ride. 

But whatever you do to stay busy enjoying Key West during the day, be sure to make it to Mallory Square for sunset.

With dozens of popular bars nearby made famous by the likes of Ernest Hemingway , you can grab your favorite drink and cheer the many street performers and artists who make their living at the water’s edge each night.

The whole area turns into a party once the sun goes down so you can stay as social as you’d like at that point. 

You could also take a day trip to the nearby Dry Tortugas National Park . Full of stunning coral reefs where you can kayak or snorkel, Dry Tortugas National Park is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful marine life.

READ MORE: Plan the trip with these awesome things to do in Key West!

The drive between Key West and Tampa is a long but scenic one along the Gulf Coast of Florida. We’d recommend you stop in Miami and finish doing anything you failed to check off your itinerary when you were there before. 

Regardless of whether you stop or not, you’ll pick up Interstate 75 in Miami and head northwest to Tampa.

This part of Florida is known for the number of smaller cities and towns that serve as vacation destinations, second homes and retirement communities and for good reason.

You could stop at any number of them as you need for a bite to eat, to fill up on gas or just stretch your legs. Naples , Fort Meyers , Venice and Sarasota are a few of the more popular places. 

Fort Myers Beach is a popular spot for a beach day, and Sanibel Island is a gorgeous place to visit between the Florida Keys and Tampa.

But Tampa and the surrounding area on the Gulf Coast are also worth 2-3 days of your Florida road trip itinerary.

If you aren’t tired of beaches yet (Florida has tons of them!) there are plenty of options to enjoy a different kind of west coast Florida beach. Florida’s Gulf Coast tends to have calmer, warmer water so the beaches are relaxing and dreamy.

But there is also lots of things to do in Tampa itself that make it worth your time. 

Venture into Ybor City , once the thriving center of Tampa, where the Cuban influence in the neighborhood can still be seen and experienced in hand-rolled cigars, the food and the historic buildings.

There’s even a small park nestled in the area that is literally owned by Cuba and wild chickens roam the streets.

In downtown Tampa, you’ll want to spend your time along the Riverwalk where most of the best activities will be.

Ride a water bike (yes, it is a bike-like machine you ride on the water), rent a SUP or stroll along the Hillsborough River and stop as you please. Check out a few museums and find plenty to eat at Armature Works .

You can also enjoy the beaches of Clearwater or Honeymoon State Park . Or get your thrills at Busch Gardens or Adventure Island .  

If you have time for a day trip, a quick visit to Crystal River to kayak or swim with manatees is a popular excursion from Tampa! Or head to the nearby town of Tarpon Springs and check out the famous Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.

READ MORE: Plan your perfect 3 days in Tampa with this itinerary !

As all good things must come to an end, your Florida road trip will end where it began in Orlando.

From Tampa, it is just over an hour along the other side of Interstate 4 to reach Orlando. 

If you already spent a few days enjoying the city then you can plan to drive straight from Tampa to the Orlando international airport to catch your flight.

Just give yourself a little extra time for traffic and to return your rental car. 

But if you have a few days left for Orlando, enjoy your time there! You can get around the city without a car, so if you want to save a few dollars on the rental and potential parking fees go ahead and drop off the car and catch a ride to your hotel from there. 

Other Excursions for Florida Road Trips

Florida is a rather large state and with so much to offer it is really impossible to see it all in two weeks.

In fact, there are entire sections of the state that we left off this 2-week Florida road trip itinerary to make sure you experienced the most you could in such a short amount of time. 

So if you have more time and/or want to see and do more than just the major Florida attractions and highlights, there are many more options!

Here are some additional Florida road trip ideas. These will require a little more driving. But the rewards of the experience will be worth it for sure! 

Read Next: Check out all of the other great places to visit in Florida !

• Swim with (or just view) manatees in the wild (Crystal River)
• Snorkel for scallops (Steinhatchee or Cedar Key)
• Float down a crystal clear spring (Itchetucknee) 
• See the original Blue Angel airplanes ( Pensacola )
• Enjoy Panama City Beach or Fort Walton Beach
• Walk through history in St. Augustine (if you didn’t already)
• Collect prehistoric shark teeth (Fort Clinch State Park)
• Ride horses on the beach (Amelia Island)
• Play/watch a round of golf at The Players Championship at Sawgrass

If you were to break down the state of Florida into the most-visited cities in which to spend your time, these would include Orlando, Miami and Tampa.  

So in worst case, if you had no interest in visiting the Florida Keys, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach or Cocoa Beach then you could have a much more condensed Florida road trip between Orlando, Miami and Tampa. 

Of course, you’ll miss out on the opportunities in some of the smaller cities and towns along the way.

But you will spend less time driving between places and more time exploring all the great things to do in and around the cities themselves. 

We’d still recommend that you make a circular route between the three cities. But whether you started in Orlando, Tampa or Miami would be entirely up to you.

The entire loop between these three cities is around 600 miles, leaving you plenty of time in the cities themselves. 

Wherever you choose to spend time during your Florida road trips we hope that you enjoy the state as much as we do!

There is a reason people flock to the state year after year and we want you to see why! 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Lindsay Harvey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Thanks for the insightful and detailed plan.

I am wondering if you have ever made a whole round trip of FL, starting from Tampa, and covering the panhandle, across via Tallahassee to Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Orlando, Cocoa beach, West Palm beach, down the coast line to Miami, Key West, and back up West coast towards Naples, Fort Myers? Would love to get any tips/suggestions/recommendations on places to visit.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

15 Best Florida Road Trips And Scenic Drives

May 15, 2023 //  by  Florida Trippers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miami to Key West

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

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

This is a great Florida road trip with kids!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Central Florida Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florida East Coast

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

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

You’ll experience a smorgasbord of different Florida attractions!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Haunted Florida Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florida Springs Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tampa to Naples Roadtrip

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

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

This is the best Florida West Coast road trip!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everglades Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keep on to Nine Mile Pond for canoeing and kayaking!

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

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

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

Waterfall Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UFO Sighting Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

North Florida Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florida Castles Road Trip

• Solomon’s Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surfing Road Trip

• St. Augustine Beach
• Cocoa Beach
• Boynton Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scenic Hiking Road Trip

• Blowing Rocks
• Big Talbot Island
• Ocala National Forest

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brewery Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florida Keys State Park Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Perfect 2-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary + Map

T his is the perfect Florida road trip itinerary! Having spent many years living in Florida and exploring the state extensively, I can confidently say that this road trip covers many of the must-see locations, with the option to include additional destinations if you have extra time. I recently took my husband, (who’s from Spain) on this journey, and he loved every place we visited. Even if you’re a Florida native, you’ll still enjoy this adventure!

Florida offers an ideal setting for a road trip, thanks to its abundant attractions and year-round sunshine. This itinerary is tailored for road trip enthusiasts of all kinds, whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, on a girls’ getaway, or even as a solo adventurer.

Table of Contents

2-Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Day 1 + 2: miami, day 3, 4, + 5: florida keys, day 6 + 7: captiva island, day 8 + 9: sarasota, day 10, 11, + 12: orlando.

Day 13 + 14: Saint Augustine

Pack your bags.. it’s time for a road trip!

Note: Starting and Ending Point of the Florida Road Trip Itinerary

The starting and ending point of your Florida road trip itinerary will depend on a few factors.

• The cost of renting a car in Miami and dropping it off in Orlando was only a $50 price difference. Almost all rental car companies will let you drop off in a different place. It made a lot more sense for us to just spend the $50 than to drive all the way back to Miami.
• If you live in Florida, then starting either in Miami or Saint Augustine (whichever is closer to your city) would be best.

Miami is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse range of attractions. There’s truly something for every kind of traveler! The peak tourist season is during the winter months, from December to April, when the weather is warm and dry. However, this is also when prices for accommodations and activities tend to be higher. If you prefer lower prices and can handle some rain, you can consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (May to June) or fall (September to November).

We flew into Miami International Airport and picked up our rental car, then drove to our hotel in South Beach. After check in, we grabbed lunch and started checking off our must-do things and must-visit places in Miami!

A perfect afternoon at Nikki Beach Miami

Sunrise on South Beach

Best things to do in miami:.

• Spend a day at Nikki Beach in South Beach (this was one of our favorite things we did in Miami)
• Explore Little Havana and eat authentic Cuban food
• Visit Wynwood Arts District
• Eat tacos at Taquiza in North Miami Beach (literally the best tacos I’ve ever had in my life)
• Walk around and admire all the pastel art deco buildings
• Grab a cocktail at one of the many bars, nightclubs, and lounges in areas like South Beach, Downtown Miami, and Brickell
• Get brunch on Ocean Drive (we did this before heading to the Keys)

Where to Stay:

• Casa Boutique Hotel ☆☆☆ ($$)
• SLS South Beach Miami ☆☆☆☆ ($$$)
• The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club ~ Miami Beach ☆☆☆☆ ($$$$)

The art deco buildings are the cutest

BEST tacos & blue corn tortilla chips ever at Taquiza

Make sure to get some good sleep on your last night in Miami because the next morning it’s time to grab some brunch and head down to Key West!

Driving time from Miami to Key West: approx. 3 hours, 32 mins.

On the morning of day 3, we woke up and headed straight to brunch. There are so many amazing brunch spots all over Miami, so you won’t have any difficulty finding one. Following your meal, it’s time to embark on the road trip journey to Key West! We suggest heading directly to Key West so that you can gradually make your way back to Miami while exploring the other Keys. This approach will considerably reduce the length of your next long drive, which will be on day 6.

A bit about The Florida Keys – they are a picturesque and unique chain of islands located at the southern tip of Florida, extending into the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The Florida Keys are known for their stunning natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere.

There are hundreds of keys in the Florida Keys, but the most famous ones (listed from north to south) are:

• Big Pine Key

Related post (for couples): A romantic getaway in Key West

Smathers Beach - Key West

The Perry Hotel Key West is the perfect place to unwind

Must-do things in key west:.

• Spend an afternoon at the beautiful Smathers Beach – this is a great place to take some photos!
• Wander around Downtown Key West – we loved exploring downtown without a GPS.
• Take a sunrise or sunset sailing tour – We planned to do this, but decided on taking a day trip to Bahia Honda. Next time, we definitely want to do the sailing tour. If you stay at The Perry Hotel they can arrange a sailing tour for you!
• Eat at Lobster Shack Key West – If you’re into seafood, you must try this place.
• Grab a drink at Green Parrot Bar – This bar was voted best bar in Key West and has happy hour & live music!
• Visit the popular tourist spots – Southernmost Point Buoy, Southernmost House, Key West lighthouse, etc.
• Try the Cuban food at Havana Cabana – we loved having lunch here and we thought the food was mouth-watering

The best place to stay:

• The Perry Hotel Key West is dog-friendly, if you’re bringing your furry friend along on your road trip!
• Stay here for 2 nights and then check out early and head to Bahia Honda State Park

Driving time from Key West to Bahia Honda State Park: approx. 45 mins. 

Incredible Cuban food at Havana Cabana

Early morning swims at The Perry Hotel

After the 45 minute drive from key west, you’ll arrive at bahia honda state park.

This state park is one of the most beautiful in all of the Florida Keys. The azure waters, pristine white sand, flourishing nature—it’s a dream come true. Here’s the lowdown:

• Navigate your way there by clicking this link for Google Maps directions.
• Entrance costs $8.00* per vehicle (+.50 cents per person). The limit is 8 people per vehicle.
• Bahia Honda State Park offers a range of amenities, including camping, cabins, pavilions, picnic spots, showers, and restrooms.

We spent about 6 hours at the park. Our time mostly consisted of snorkeling, indulging in a picnic, soaking up the sunshine, and reveling in the breathtaking array of blue hues surrounding us. Camping is definitely on our agenda for the next visit!

Since we need to start making our way back north, it’s time to head to either Islamorada or Key Largo for the night. We recommend staying at Drop Anchor Resort in Islamorada, so we will use that as an example.

Driving time from Bahia Honda State Park to Drop Anchor Resort Islamorada: approx. 1 hour

Alll the shades of blue at Bahia Honda

A stunning place to spend an afternoon

Stay the night at drop anchor resort in islamorada.

This super cute pastel hotel right off the main road, is also perched right on the beach. They offer 12 different kinds of rooms, many of them with ocean views. There are quite a few restaurants close to the hotel. For those seeking underwater adventures, the nearby dive shop, Key Dives, offers both scuba diving and snorkeling experiences.

Rest well because after checkout in the morning, it’s time to set off on the longest drive of the whole Florida road trip itinerary!

Driving time from Drop Anchor Resort to Captiva Island: approx. 4 hours, 38 mins. 

Drop Anchor Resort - Islamorada

Drop Anchor Resort in Islamorada, FL

Don’t worry too much about the long drive because there are many things to do and see along the route –.

• Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo and take a glass bottom boat tour or go snorkeling. There are beautiful coral reefs and lots of marine life here!
• Take an Everglades airboat tour (you can book this through lots of different companies or on GetYourGuide)
• Visit the Naples Pier
• Swim or take a looong walk on the sand at Fort Myers Beach

This is definitely one of our favorite places on the whole Florida road trip itinerary! Right when we arrived to Captiva Island, we absolutely fell in love. The peace and serenity that this island brings is unparalleled. We went straight to our hotel (South Seas Island Resort) and checked in. When we got to our room, we couldn’t believe our eyes *see photo belows*. The room was a dream!

Note: After the devastating hurricane in 2022, South Seas Island Resort has been rebuilt in many parts. Some of the hotel areas may not look the same as before.

Just... wow. Am I right?

We had to make a little bed on the balcony because it was just so beautiful

There aren’t many places to stay on Captiva Island, but even if there were, we would still recommend South Seas Island Resort . We had an amazing stay and there were lots of things to do and many delicious food options.

Things to do on Captiva Island/South Seas Island Resort:

• Kayaking with manatees and dolphins – This was the most exciting morning of our whole road trip! We set off from the South Seas coast around 9 am and in the first 10 minutes of kayaking we were surrounded by dolphins playing. Then we paddled a bit farther and saw a few manatees under the water – they were so cute!
• Sunset dolphin boat tour – This was so much fun and we saw dolphins and manatees again, but this time more than 50 dolphins! Everyone on the boat was so excited and it was a great vibe 🙂
• Enjoy lunch on the beach at Island Tacos – The cutest little food truck with amazing Mexican food. We loved the tacos and quesadillas.
• Rent a golf cart and explore the island – Make a reservation ahead of time
• Swim, relax, and drink a cocktail at the beautiful South Seas Island Resort ocean front pool
• Have dinner at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grill on Sanibel Island – The food is delicious and they have live music often. In our opinion, we could have eaten at this restaurant every day for a week haha.
• Take a sunset walk on the beach – The sunsets are extra beautiful and colorful here!

Driving time from Captiva Island to Sarasota: approx. 2 hours, 15 mins. 

Dolphin tour off Captiva Island

Ocean front pool at South Seas Island Resort

Tropical dinner vibes at Doc Ford's

Sunset walk on the beach

Sarasota is my hometown, so it will always hold a special place in my heart! It’s a vibrant city known for its cultural richness, beautiful beaches, and artistic flair. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Florida, Sarasota frequently wins the title of having one of the best beaches in the United States, Siesta Key Beach, renowned for its powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters.

Overall, Sarasota is a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle, making it an appealing must-visit destination.

The sunsets at Siesta Key are some of the best we've ever seen

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

My parents still live in Sarasota, so we just stayed with them and didn’t have to get a hotel for this part of our trip! There are quite a few great hotel options in Sarasota though. I recommend staying either near Siesta Key or Lido Key area. Here are some choices:

• The Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel ☆☆☆☆ ($$)
• The Westin Sarasota ☆☆☆☆ ($$$)
• The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota ☆☆☆☆☆ ($$$$)

Best things to do in Sarasota:

• Sunbathing and swimming at the #1 beach in the USA – Siesta Key! My husband (to remind you – he’s from Spain) had never seen a beach with sand so white and water so clear. Siesta really is amazing + the sand NEVER gets hot!
• Visit the unique The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art – I have probably been here about 20 times in my life and it never gets old. Make sure to see the art museums, the circus museum, and the Ca’ d’Zan mansion.
• Shopping and Lunch at St. Armands Circle – Eat at Cha Cha Coconuts (they have the best fried shrimp) and then get ice cream at Kilwins (my favorite flavor is the cake batter.. yummm).
• Brunch with your feet in the sand at The Sandbar Restaurant on Anna Maria Island – This one is in Bradenton Beach area, but it’s worth the drive to eat here then explore Anna Maria Island!
• Wander around the beautiful Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Downtown Sarasota

If you’re traveling as a couple, don’t miss 15 romantic things to do in Sarasota !

Driving time from Sarasota to Orlando: approx. 2 hours, 20 mins. 

We drove up to Brandon to play at TopGolf - so much fun!

Brunch with our feet in the sand at Sandbar Restaurant

Next up on the Florida road trip itinerary is Orlando! There are e n d l e s s things to do there. It is one of the most popular places to visit in all of the USA. People usually flock here for the theme parks, but there are many other fun activities and places to see. We opted for a mix of theme parks and a nearby incredible nature landscape – the springs!

For a 3-day Orlando adventure, especially if you’re a fan of theme parks, I suggest deciding between dedicating 2 days to either Universal or Disney. While you could opt for a day at each, it will mean missing out on the full experience of either park. In our case, we chose to immerse ourselves in the world of Universal. However, we did add a touch of Disney magic by spending one evening at Disney Springs for a dinner at Rainforest Cafe.

Kelly Park Rock Springs - near Orlando

Universal Orlando's Volcano Bay

There are hundreds of hotels in Orlando! Depending on if you choose Universal or Disney, you will likely pick a hotel that’s close to the park or on park property. Often if you stay at the hotels on park property, they have guest benefits (like getting into the park early, fast passes, etc.)

We stayed at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel on Universal Orlando property and would recommend it to anyone and everyone! The hotel looks like it’s straight from Portofino in Italy, has incredible food, transport to the parks, guest benefits, and so much more. Read the post linked below for more details about this hotel and the Universal parks.

Related post: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel + Universal Orlando

Best things to do in Orlando:

• Explore the Universal Orlando Parks (Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay)
• Visit the Disney Parks (Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios + Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon)
• Enjoy an evening at Disney Springs and eat at one of the many amazing themed restaurants
• Stroll around I-Drive (International Drive)
• Spend a day floating around Rock Springs Kelly Park (about 45 minutes away from Orlando). I go to Rock Springs every time I go to Orlando. There’s something so magical about it. Don’t forget a tube to float on!

Driving time Orlando to Saint Augustine: approx. 1 hour, 40 mins.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando

A fun day at Islands of Adventure

Day 13 + 14: saint augustine (last stop on your florida road trip itinerary).

Saint Augustine stands out as a unique stop on the road trip, often overlooked but has SO much to offer! Nestled on the northeast coast of Florida, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental US.

Thanks to its rich history, vibrant culture, and captivating architectural beauty, Saint Augustine is a true gem and a destination that shouldn’t be missed. And let’s not forget the allure of the beautiful St. Augustine Beach!

Sand dunes of Saint Augustine Beach

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Where to stay in saint augustine:.

For a central city stay, consider The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens or Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront—they’re both excellent options! If a beachfront retreat is more your style, Embassy Suites by Hilton St Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort is a solid choice.

Best things to do in Saint Augustine:

• Wander on St. George Street – This pedestrian only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• Get spooky with a night time haunted tour or pub crawl
• Indulge in a homemade popsicle from The Hyppo – I am obsessed with this place! The watermelon hibiscus and pink grapefruit flavors are my absolute favorite!
• Visit the historic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
• Have a picnic at Saint Augustine Beach

For those flying out of Orlando, make your way to the Orlando Airport on the morning of Day 15 and return your rental car.

If you find yourself with some additional time, extending your stay in the Keys, exploring the Clearwater/St. Pete area, or taking a detour to Cocoa Beach are all worthwhile options!

We hope you enjoyed this Florida road trip itinerary! Have a great time and don’t forget the snacks 🙂

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Carrie Salter

Hi! I'm Carrie Salter, a travel blogger originally from the USA, but now traveling and living abroad full time. I share travel guides, travel tips, and inspiration from around the world!

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• Destinations

Wild Junket

Florida Road Trip: The Ultimate 2-Week Florida Itinerary

Last Updated on March 15, 2024

Planning an epic Florida road trip? Here’s our 2-week Florida itinerary including swimming with manatees, island hopping, and living it up in Miami.

There is no doubt that Florida is one of the best road trip destinations in the United States. The Sunshine State has endless miles of wide, sandy beaches, vibrant marine life and unique keys. Not just that, we also love the pristine nature it has to offer: from magical natural springs to wildlife-rich ecosystems. 

Alberto and I actually met in Florida 20 years ago, and we have since returned several times and traveled all over Florida. For those planning a Florida road trip, here is our recommended 2-week Florida itinerary, including the best places to stop, where to stay and where to eat in Florida.

Table of Contents

Recommended Two Weeks in Florida Itinerary 

Travel insurance for florida, how to get to florida, by car/camper, by day trips, best time to do a florida road trip, how much does a florida road trip cost, florida itinerary days 1 & 2: explore miami, recommended tours in miami, where to stay in miami, where to stay in key largo, recommended tours in key west, where to stay in key west, day trip to dry tortugas national park, recommended tours in the everglades, where to stay in the everglades, where to stay on marco island, recommended tours in sarasota, where to stay in sarasota, where to stay in ocala, florida itinerary days 12-14: tubing in the springs, florida itinerary day 15: drive to orlando, enjoy your florida road trip, florida road trip guide.

As we love nature way more than big cities, we have designed this Florida road trip around natural springs, mangroves and beaches. But there are SO many things to do in Florida – from theme parks to historical forts – so you’ll have to decide where your interest lies.

We’ll be giving a day-to-day breakdown of this Florida itinerary, please continue reading. We recommend a minimum of 2 weeks in Florida to see and experience the best of Florida at a comfortable pace. If you only have 1 week in Florida, we suggest focusing on Miami, the Florida Keys and Everglades National Park.

• 2 Days in Miami – to check out the stunning Art Deco architecture at South Beach
• 3 Days in Florida Keys – to explore some of the best coral reefs
• 1 Day in Everglades National Park – to go wildlife watching including taking an airboat tour
• 4 Days on the Paradise Coast – to explore the best beaches from Marco Island to Sarasota
• 4 Days in Central Florida – to explore Florida’s stunning natural springs

It’s important to have travel insurance for travel as well as  auto insurance during the pandemic. You never know what will happen and travel insurance can protect you in case of an accident, flight delay or loss of luggage. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

The good news is that Florida has plenty of well-connected airports. The most popular airports to fly into Florida are MIA (Miami), FLL (Fort Lauderdale) and MCO (Orlando) airports. We’ve found that flights to Fort Lauderdale are the cheapest.

In this Florida itinerary, we are driving from Miami to Orlando .Flying into Florida both from other parts of the US and internationally is quite affordable. You can fly from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale for as little as $300 return (5-hour flight). For the best fares, we always use Skyscanner as they’ve consistently given us the lowest prices.

Flying from Europe to Florida is surprisingly cheap. We took a direct flight from Paris to Fort Lauderdale with Norwegian Airlines (10hours) for $220 one way. You can also get great deals from London, Brussels, Porto, Copenhagen or Oslo.

Search for Cheap Flights to Florida

How to Get Around Florida 

The best way to get around Florida is by car.  In our experience, Florida is one of the most affordable states for car hire. O ur last car rental in Florida cost us $180 for a week including full insurance, which is around $25 a day. Check the current rates here.

Alternatively, you can also do this Florida road trip on a campervan. You can hire a campervan on Outdoorsy for around $150/day. Traveling in a campervan can help you save a lot on accommodation and food. Search for a campervan here.

While driving in Miami can prove a little tricky, driving outside of the big cities is very easy. Compared to the rest of the world, gas prices in Florida are incredibly low. At the moment Florida gas prices sit at around US$2.50 per gallon (3.78L).

Book Your Car Rental!

If you prefer not to drive, it IS possible to visit popular spots in Florida such as the Everglades National Park on day trips. Our favorite site to book day tours is GetYourGuide . They consistently offer the best prices and have free cancellations and mobile vouchers.

Most day trips around Florida cost around US$60 and upwards. There are lots of boat trips and snorkel tours in Florida that are worth doing! Here are some of our recommended Florida day tours:

• Miami Star Island Boat Tour
• Everglades Airboat Tour
• Key West Dolphin Eco Tour
• Sunset Sail on a Schooner
•   Crystal River: Snorkel with Manatees Tour

The great thing about Florida is that it is a year-round destination.  The coldest it gets in Florida is around 60°F (15°C) in January. July is the warmest month in Florida, when temperatures can rise to up to  90°F (32°C). 

Our favorite time to visit Florida is in fall between September to November. T he weather is perfect around 75°F (24°C), meaning you can still go swimming and enjoy the beaches and springs without getting fried by the heat.

Fall is also low season in Florida, before the snowbirds and Christmas arrivals have made their way down, so prices and crowds are considerably lower. High season is during winter between November and February, expect prices to be the highest then.

Luckily, Florida is one of the least expensive States in the US.  Hiring your own car is the most affordable way to experience the best of Florida. Expect to pay around around US$360 for a 2-week car rental and another $200 for gas. Check current car hire rates here.

Miami is notoriously an expensive place to stay where accommodation can set you back US$150 for a basic 3-star hotel. Accommodation in Central Florida and the Paradise Coast is a little cheaper than other states. In low season, you can get a budget hotel for US$60-80 per night and around $100-150 per night for a 4-star hotel.

Camping in state parks in Florida costs between US$30-50 per night . An exception to this rule is the Florida Keys, which costs between US$40-50 per night. There are many big-chain diners throughout the State where you can get a good meal for around $10 plus tax and tip.

My Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Miami is the best choice to start your road trip in Florida as its airport is a major hub. We recommend staying at South Beach as it is the hippest area of Miami, with a beautiful windswept beach and stylish art deco hotels. Check out my detailed 3-day Miami itinerary for the full details.

Over the next two days, cool off in the beautiful Venetian Pool in Coral Gables and take a wander around Little Havana , a vibrant Cuban neighborhood in Miami. For a different side to Miami, check out the Wynwood Walls art district , an amazing display of street art from artists all over the world. Spend a day chilling at Key Biscayne or take a sightseeing flight for a view of Miami from above .

South Beach is a very cool place to stay but it is notoriously expensive. A beer in a bar along South Beach can cost as much as $20 and a gigantic signature cocktail (enough for 2) can cost up to $40. For those on a budget, stay in Coral Gables or Brownsville near the airport.

Budget: Hudson House

It’s hard to find anything less than $100/night in Miami, so this stylish house is a rare find. We stayed here once after a long flight  (it’s near the airport) and it was a great place to rest up. Hudson House is made up of several double rooms (with shared bathrooms) and spacious living area. Check the rates.

Midrange: Biltmore Hotel

One of the iconic landmarks of Miami, the Biltmore Hotel is housed in a Spanish colonial building reminiscent of yesteryears. The plush decor and lush patio reflect its history, while the interior has been completely revamped in recent years. Check the rates here.

Luxury: 1 Hotel South Beach

Located in the heart of South Beach, this is one of the best hotels in Miami . The upscale property has oceanfront rooms and spacious apartments with spectacular views. It also has 2 swimming pools, including one adults-only rooftop poo. Check the rates here.

Florida Itinerary Day 3: Drive to Florida Keys

It is now time to pump your road trip playlist as you hit the road towards the Florida Keys ! The Keys are a coral cay archipelago located off the southern coast of Florida. To get there, you’ll be d riving along the U.S. Route 1, and this is one of the best road trips in the USA .

Make Key Largo your first stop in the Florida Keys. This cute beachside town is the largest town in the Keys with great beaches and seafood restaurants. Be sure to try the signature dishes of the Florida Keys: Key Lime Pie and Conch fritters (made from large sea snails).

Try local craft beer at Florida Brewing Company or go kayaking in the seagrass beds of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Divers can also take the afternoon to go diving at the Spiegal Grove wreck . Check out Globo Surf for the best snorkeling and dive sites in Florida. Scuba geeks should check out Jules Undersea Lodge ,  Florida’s only underwater hotel and one of the most unique hotels in the world .

Budget: John Pennekamp State Park Campground

If you enjoy camping, stay overnight at the park’s campground which costs $43 USD a night including tax. There are also RV parking and facilities, as well as outdoor showers. Read reviews here.

Midrange: Gilbert’s Resort

One of the few affordable places on Key Largo, this is a popular motel with an on-site marina and boat dock, as well as its own private beach. Enjoy fishing off the dock, rent a boat or feast on fresh seafood at its Tiki Grill and Bar. Check the rates here.

Luxury: Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection By Hilton

With its own private beach, this five-star resort is ultra modern and slick, featuring an all-white design. It is surrounded by lush landscaping and nature trails, excellent for nature seekers looking for comfort. Check the rates here.

Florida Itinerary Days 4 & 5: Visit Key West

Continue the next day along U.S. Route 1. The last stretch of the highway is also the most iconic route to the Florida Keys, the Seven Mile Bridge . 

En route to Key West, you will pass through many quirky towns, including Islamorada , where you can hand feed giant tarpon at Robbies. Also visit the turtle hospital in Marathon, where they are doing great work to rehabilitate wild turtles. These are definitely some of the best places to stop on a road trip in Florida.

We recommend spending 2 nights in Key West, the most famous town in the Florida Keys and the southernmost point of continental US. Visit the famous Ernest Hemingway House and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Don’t miss these   free things to do in Key West .

Budget: Seashell Motel

There aren’t many budget hotels in Key West. This is the cheapest place with dorm beds and comfortable lounging areas in the lawn. It’s a 15-minute walk to Duval Street and other attractions. Check the rates here.

Midrange: Eden House

Locally owned and operated since 1975, this art deco hotel is located in the center of  Old Town Key West , within  walking distance  of  Duval Street . Eden House has got a quirky, retro Florida flair, with plenty of personality to boot. This is definitely our favorite hotel in Key West. Check the rates.

Luxury: Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

A short drive from historic Old Town Key West, this tastefully-designed hotel is perched on the beach and surrounded by lush gardens. This is definitely a special spot to stay at for those celebrating an occasion. There’s also a free shuttle to the Old Town. Check the rates here.

If you have some time to spare, we highly recommend a day trip to Dry Tortugas , Florida’s best kept secret. At 70 miles off the coast of Key West, it is one of America’s least visited national parks. Visit the historic Fort Jefferson or dive off the beach into a world of turtles, giant barracudas and parrot fish.

To get there, take the Yankee Freedom ferry. The 2.5-hour ferry ride is a magical trip over turquoise waters, and leaves you about 4-5 hours on the island. It includes a ranger-led tour of Ft. Jefferson and costs $195 per person for the day trip. Read here to plan your day trip.

Florida Itinerary Day 6: Tour the Everglades 

You will need to set off early from the Florida Keys, as it takes approximately 3 hours to reach the Everglades National Park. On your way there,  we recommend making a stop at Bahia Honda State Park . This is where you’ll find the best beaches in the Florida Keys.

From Bahia Honda, drive towards the Anhinga Trail , the best short trail (0.8 miles round trip) to spot an alligator on foot in the Everglades. Near the Anhinga Trail is the Gumbo Limbo Trail , another short trail (0.4 miles round trip) through lush forest. If you have time, head over to Shark Valley Trail , a popular 15 mile round trip which can be completed on foot, by tram tour or bike. 

Continue towards the State Route 41 to get to Everglades National Park, one of the top national parks in US . An Everglades Airboat Tour is the best way to experience the Everglades as the vast percentage of the National Park is covered by swamplands and only accessible by boat. Read about our experience cruising the Everglades.

Note : The Everglades National Park has an entry cost of $30 per car, valid for 7 days.

Budget: Port of the Islands Everglades Adventure Resort

This is the closest budget hotel to the Everglades. It’s a typical old-school Floridian hotel (thus the name!) with comfortable enough rooms and a swimming pool. Check the rates here.

Midrange: Flamingo Adventures at Everglades National Park

Located within the national park, this cool eco lodge is made up of luxury tents (pictured) with proper beds and sitting area. All of them look out to the water and make for a great base to get close to nature. This is glamping at its best! Check the rates here.

Luxury: Ivey House

This eco-friendly bed and breakfast is a 15-minute walk from the Museum of the Everglades. It provides canoe and kayak rentals and it has an outdoor pool as well as a tropical waterfall. Check the rates here.

Florida Itinerary Day 7: Visit Marco Island

Just 18 miles away from Everglades City is Marco Island , one of our favorite places in Florida and honestly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. We recommend staying the night here as there are way too  many fun things to do in Marco Island. But prices are high, so budget travelers can also stay at nearby Naples.

An essential activity is a  shelling tour to find some of the most unique shells in the USA. We also recommend seeing the sinking Cape Romano houses and finding tortoises that roam freely on Tigertail Beach. This is half way point of your Florida road trip, so give yourself some down time.

Budget: Conty’s Motel

Located in Naples, this motel is a well-priced budget option with outdoor pool and old-school rooms. It’s in need of a revamp, but  the warmth and friendliness of the owners make up for it. Check the rates here.

Midrange: The BoatHouse

This motel has big comfortable rooms and a private dock as well as an outdoor pool. Guests can watch for dolphins and manatees or fish from the private dock. Check the rates here.

Luxury:  Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa

Definitely the best hotel on Marco Island, this Hilton hotel (pictured) has outdone itself with its luxurious suites and stunning panoramas in every corner. We stayed here once to celebrate a special occasion and it was definitely something special. Check the rates here.

Florida Itinerary Days 8-10: Explore the Paradise Coast

From Marco Island, it is a short 30 minute drive to the beautiful beachside town of Naples . Dolphins are often spotted at Lowdermilk Beach Park in Naples. While we were there, a group of dolphins came within inches of a local fisherman which was amazing to witness.

A hop away from Naples is its forgotten little sister, Bonita Springs , possibly the best kept secret of the Paradise Coast. In our opinion, Bonita Springs is a better place to stay than Naples as it is more affordable and has a relaxed vibe. Don’t miss Cullum’s Bonita Trail while in Bonita Springs. Keep an eye out for rabbits and gopher turtles running around the trails.

Continue from Bonita Springs towards Sarasota where you’ll find Siesta Key Beach, lauded as the best beach in the USA. Spend 2 nights here as there are many things to do in Sarasota. See the Unconditional Surrender Statue and the stunning Ringling Museum of Art (normally $25 a person,  but free on Mondays!).

Budget: Siesta Inn Motel Sarasota

One of the cheapest motels in Sarasota, Siesta Inn offers low prices and newly renovated, comfortable rooms. It doesn’t have many facilities, but it is a quiet spot for those seeking some tranquility. Check the rates.

Midrange: Regency Inn & Suites Sarasota 

All modern-style rooms at this midrange motel are large, spacious and well-equipped. There’s also an outdoor pool and plenty of parking spaces. Great value for money! Check the rates.

Luxury: Lido Beach Resort

The beachfront Lido Beach Resort has a huge stretch of private beach in the heart of Sarasota. It’s definitely worth splurging on this hotel if you’ve been slumming it so far. This resort (pictured) offers ocean-view rooms for reasonable prices. Check the rates.

Florida Itinerary Day 11: Swim with Manatees 

Our #1 thing to do in Florida is to visit the numerous natural springs. We recommend spending 3 nights to see the best natural springs in Florida . Read my guide to swimming with manatees .

A 2-hour drive north from Sarasota is the Three Sisters Spring at Crystal River , the only place in Florida where you can swim with manatees year round. Join a snorkel tour with naturalist guide to learn more about the manatee and its natural habitat. Swimming with a manatee was one of the highlights of our Florida road trip!

In winter, it is possible to see manatees in Blue Springs as they migrate to warm themselves. From Crystal River, it is a 30-minute drive to one of the most picturesque springs in Florida, Rainbow Springs . In summer (until September 30) it is possible to complete a 2 hours tube run at Rainbow Springs , one of the best rated tube runs in Florida.

Budget: Howard Johnson by Wyndham Ocala FL

Featuring funky and vibrant colors, this budget hotel offers an excellent value for money with room rates as low as $60/night. Rooms are carpeted and plush, and splashed with bright orange and blue. Check the rates here.

Midrange: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

Within a few minutes’ drive from the Paddock Mall, the midrange hotel has large and clean rooms. There is also an indoor pool, hot tub and fitness center. Check the rates here.

Luxury: Residence Inn Ocala

Located off Interstate 75, this hotel has huge suites that have cooking facilities. It features a heated outdoor pool, hot buffet breakfast and free evening receptions with drinks from Monday through Thursday. Check the rates here.

An hour’s drive north from Rainbow Springs is the famous Ginnie Springs , where you can go stand-up paddle boarding, tubing and kayaking all year round. 

You can do a day trip here from Ocala, or stay in the closest large town, Gainsville which is a 40-minute drive away. There is also camping available in Ginnie Springs, at $22.43 per adult per night although the toilet blocks tend to get very muddy. 

Tip : If you intend to do a lot of tubing in Florida, purchase your own tube in advance from a local Walmart or Publix.

From Gainesville, head back down towards Orlando. Make a stop at Juniper Springs in the Ocala National Forest. This is one of the oldest recreation areas on the East Coast, constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

We recommend flying out of Orlando to save you the drive back to Miami. From Juniper Springs, it is a 1.5-hour drive to Orlando (or a 4-hour drive back to Miami).

Spend your final night at an airport hotel for some much needed rest and relaxation after two weeks of adventure!  La Quinta Inn at Orlando Airport is a good budget option, while Wingate by Wyndham is nearer to the airport but has slightly higher prices.

And that’s a wrap! I hope our Florida road trip planner has helped you plan your own adventure. In our opinion, this is the best Florida road trip you can do, mixing up nature, beaches and city sightseeing.

You can also do the same Florida itinerary in the reverse direction. Drive from Orlando to Key West, and end your Florida road trip with a bang there.

If you’re interested in exploring more of the US, check out other articles I’ve written:

• California Road Trip Itinerary
• Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
• Nevada Road Trip Itinerary
• Weekend in Seattle
• Weekend in Los Angeles
• Weekend in San Francisco
• Weekend in Miami
• Swimming with Manatees 

Have a blast on your Florida road trip!  Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I make a small commission when you purchase something through my links, at NO extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

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Nadia and Mike

Nadia and Mike are Travel Bloggers at Couple Travel the World . They left their corporate jobs in 2015 to pursue a life of travel and adventure. You can see more of their journey on their Instagram, @coupletraveltheworld .

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The Comments

Isabella Miller

Loved the blog, Nellie. Florida seems like an amazing place. Might plan a trip there this year. Could you suggest some places where we could try local food.

Komal Goyal

loved the blog. and loved the way you have detailed out everything that one needs to know while traveling to Florida. Just made my planning work very very easy.

Tirupati packages

Awesome post Nadia and Mike!! I always dreaming of a florida road trip. So this post helpful for me.

Alexa Jordan

2 weeks seems like so long, but reading everything you suggest makes it seem not long enough. Once Red Coach opens their bus routes again, I will definitely have to see some of these spots!

Greg Nelson

This is a great itinerary. I agree with Alexa- riding with Red Coach is a great way to get around Florida. That way, you can see the state more.

Sarah in the UK

Thanks for all the tips, really useful! :)

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The 7 best Florida road trips

Aug 26, 2023 • 5 min read

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

Vacationers have flocked to Florida since the late 1800s, when Henry Flagler built his famous railroad down the coast. The state's status as vacation paradise was cemented when Walt Disney snapped up a sizable chunk of it in the 1960s to build his new theme park .

There's no denying Florida’s appeal. Its incessant sunshine and natural beauty make it particularly well suited for road-tripping. The narrow peninsula packs in the hedonistic pleasures, from white-sand beaches to fantasy-fueled amusement parks – with historical monuments, natural wonders and roadside attractions sprinkled liberally along the way. Here are the Sunshine State’s seven best road trips for 2023. 

North Florida Backwaters & Byways 

Best road trip for springs, manatees and mermaids.

Start: Pensacola; End: Weeki Wachee; Distance: 510 miles

Kick-off your trip with spectacular white-sand beaches along the Gulf Coast , then meander back roads and byways to discover northern Florida's hidden treasures. Along the way, you'll find crystal-clear springs that you can enjoy from an inner tube or glass-bottomed boat, come face-to-face with a Florida manatee, and end your trip with a classic roadside attraction starring the mermaids of Weeki Wachee . Other stops to include along the way include the Spanish moss-lined Wakulla Springs and the beautiful Ichetucknee Springs . 

Best road trip for tracing the Atlantic Coast

Start: Amelia Island; End: Miami Beach; Distance: 475 miles

Drive the length of Florida all the way down the coast and you'll get a sampling of all the highlights of the Sunshine State. You'll find the oldest permanent European settlement in the United States, family-friendly attractions, the Latin flavor of Miami and – oh, yeah – miles and miles of beaches right beside you, inviting you to stop as often as you want.

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

Planning tip: November through March is peak snowbird season in Florida, making driving along Highway 1 – and other major coastal routes – a bit more of a crawl.

Overseas Highway to Key West 

Best road trip for island hopping.

Start: John Pennekamp State Park; End: Key West; Distance: 102 miles

There's no better way – short of hopping on a plane – to enjoy such an utter feeling of escape from the mainland as driving through the Florida Keys . The motto here seems to be “do whatever the hell you want.” 

Pull off the highway for biker bars, seafood grills and blissful beaches – wherever and whenever the crazy spirit of these islands moves you. Highlights on this 102-mile trek include John Pennekamp State Park , the USA’s first underwater park, the Indian & Lignumvitae Keys and the Seven Mile Bridge. 

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

Walt Disney World and beyond

Best road trip for the whole family.

Start: Kennedy Space Center; End: Sanibel & Captiva Islands; Distance: 288 miles

This trip links up most of the Sunshine State's best family-friendly attractions , including spectacular white-sand beaches with tons of sights.

Begin at NASA's Kennedy Space Center , a major attraction based on real-world wonder. From there hop on I-4 westbound toward Central Florida and its more imaginative delights. Let your inner child loose at the Magic Kingdom, but don't stop there; you'll find plenty more to entertain you in dizzying Orlando .

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

The Florida Panhandle

Best road trip for a taste of florida's western edge.

Start: Perdido Key; End: Tallahassee; Distance: 254 miles

The Atlantic side of Florida – brushed with flat golden beaches – gets a lot of love. Well, the Florida Panhandle on the Gulf Coast is equally as beaming with beach bliss and southern charm. Start your eastward journey near the Alabama border in Perdido Key , a barrier island with turquoise waters and expansive wetlands.

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

The Everglades 

Best road trip for seeing wildlife.

Start: Southeastern Everglades; End: Everglades City; Distance: 170 miles

The enticing Everglades are what make South Florida truly unique. This ecological wonderland is the USA's largest subtropical wilderness, flush with endangered and rare species, including its star attraction, the alligator (and lots of them). 

It's not just a wetland, swamp, prairie or grassland – it's all of the above, twisted into a series of soft horizons, long vistas and sunsets that stretch across your entire field of vision. Pitstops include kayaking in Flamingo, tram tours in Shark Valley and searching for Bigfoot in Ochopee.

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

North Florida

Best road trip for exploring the central heart of florida.

Start: Jacksonville; End: Ocala; Distance: 112 miles

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

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

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

This article was first published November 2020 and updated August 2023

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The Ultimate Florida Road Trip: 21 Spectacular Places you Must-See

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Florida might just be my favorite state. It’s definitely my favorite state for vanlife . It’s built for road trips and if you can get past “Florida man” there is loads of nature to explore. But planning our Florida road trip I was disappointed to see every single travel blog recommend the same (crappy) places.

You’re not going to find that here.

This Florida road trip guide is going to focus on nature, scenery, stunning drives, and of course, beaches. No Disneyworld or tourist-trap towns here.

Because Florida, undoubtedly, has some of the coolest natural attractions in the country and unfortunately few travelers know about them.

Let’s take a look at some of the more scenic and lesser known destinations that Florida has to offer.

Why Plan a Florida Road Trip?

There’s 3 reasons Florida makes for such a perfect road trip vacation destination.

1. Florida is huge.

You can drive South for 8 hours and you’ll still be in the same state. While you can blow through multiple states on a typical week-long road trip, Florida takes some time to see right. We spent 2 weeks bouncing around Florida’s beaches and I still felt it wasn’t enough.

2. Beaches.

From the still silky waters of the Gulf Coast to the crashing waves of the Atlantic, Florida has a beach for everyone.

3. Wildlife.

Florida is teeming with wildlife. & unless you’re from the South it can feel as foreign as traveling to the other side of the world. 500 species of birds alone reside in Florida, not to mention alligators, crocodiles, beavers, foxes, panthers, manatees, even a colony of monkeys.

4. The weather.

Vanlife can be really hard sometimes. But it’s a lot less difficult when the weather is good. After all, road trips and sunshine go hand in hand. & if you’re looking to escape the crisp winters of the Northern US, a winter Florida road trip is the perfect getaway.

Tips for Planning Your Florida Road Trip

Here’s a few things you should know before you hit the open road.

Avoid Hurricane Season.

Although Florida has warm balmy weather pretty much year-round, it does get a hurricane or two. Plan your Florida road trip around hurricane season which typically falls from June to November.

Vanlife or RV Rental is the way to go.

Vanlife in Florida is a piece of cake. & if you want to explore the hidden gems on my road trip map below you’re going to have a hard time finding accommodation nearby. I highly recommend exploring Florida via van or RV.

Fortunately, if you’re not converting your own DIY Campervan there are plenty of rental options for you.

RV Share is one of the cheapest options on the market for RV rentals & is available all over the US. Better yet? You’ll be renting from other RV owners & supporting individuals instead of mega-corporations.

Or if Vanlife is more your style you can always check out Jucy or Escape Vans for low-priced converted van rentals.

& if you are building your own campervan then be sure to avoid these pitfalls that made our DIY van build a lot harder.

For more tips be sure to check out our full Florida Van Life blog post on avoiding bugs, where to find free overnight parking, showers & more.

Your Ultimate Florida Road Trip

Now let’s dive into the lagoons and swamps of Florida. There are two essential components when planning a road trip.

The destinations and the roads we use to get there.

I wrote up a whole other blog post focused on the most scenic stretches of Florida backroads for your road trip. Instead, we’re going to focus on the must-see stops you absolutely cannot miss on your Florida road trip.

21 Stops You Absolutely Cannot Miss

Notice you’re not going to find Disneyworld, Miami Beach, or St. Augustine on this list. Because they aren’t the best places to visit in Florida. They are the most touristy places to visit. But that’s not what this list is about.

1. Amelia Island

If tranquillity is what you’re looking for this– is the place to start. Not technically an island in the traditional sense Amelia Island is a lovely serene stretch of Florida coastline & it bodes well for the rest of your journey down the East Coast.

Hot Tip: I recommend driving through Fernandina Beach Town (a quaint alternative to St. Augustine) & then driving down the A1A until you reach a public boardwalk to the sand and enjoy a few hours on the beach.

2. Silver Glen Springs in Ocala National Forest

If I had to pick a favorite place in Florida, this is it. Ocala National Forest is a sprawling wooded area filled with turquoise lagoons and of course, the main attraction, manatees . For $6 a person you get a day pass to Silver Glen Springs. An undeveloped thermal-heated natural lagoon you can swim in, paddleboard, or kayak year-round. Leaping mullet fish, palm trees, and cormorants sunning on the shores give this lagoon an exotic tropical feel.

If you’re interested in the Manatees, visit during the winter months (Nov-Jan) when they leave the cooler open water and head for the warmth of the lagoons. During our visit, a mama & her baby swam within 10 feet of us!!

Hot Tip: Bring a snorkel. The water is crystal clear but you’ll want to get a better peek at the manatees and their underwater world.

3. Blue Spring State Park

More Manatees!

I just couldn’t get enough of these floaty potatoes. If you didn’t see manatees during your visit to Silver Glen Springs you’re almost guaranteed to see them here. During the winter months, hundreds of manatees gather in the protected canals to graze. You can’t swim with them here but you can get a great view of them from the elevated walkways around the water’s edge.

Hot Tip: Rent a kayak & paddle over to the protected manatee area. Manatees are extremely curious and we had a group of 6 come for a visit. They circled around us, poked their noses out of the water, and bumped against our kayak. You’ll probably also see Ibis, Alligators, Great Herons, and tons of other wildlife if you explore further. Best $27 I’ve ever spent.

4. Vero Beach

& now it’s back to the beaches!

I loved Vero beach because it felt undeveloped and isolated. Sure, there are plenty of houses but the beach wasn’t crowded and for the most part bare of mega-hotels.

5. Blind Creek Nude Beach

Floridians love a nude beach. They are everywhere.

Blind Creek Nude Beach was hands down my favorite. People were friendly (not creepy), the beach was huge, the waves were tame, & the sand was soft.

Hot Tip: Don’t visit a nude beach (or any beach) right after a Florida rain. Sand Fleas will be thriving and you’ll be covered in bites in no time.

6. Lake Okeechobee

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carter Andrews (@carterandrewsfishing)

This massive freshwater lake is known as Florida’s inland sea. Its placid waters reflect the blue sky & the lake is great for bird watching. There’s also some nice hiking trails to explore for the day.

7. Juno Beach

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Juno Beach Pier (@junobeachpier)

What can I say….another great beach stop on the East Coast. Juno is near West Palm Beach so it’s a great slightly less popular alternative for those trying to escape the crowds. The long pier extends way over the bright blue water and on a still day you have the chance to spot some fish in the waves.

Hot Tip: You do have to pay $1 to go on the pier.

8. Haulover Beach

Miami’s most popular ‘naturalist’ beach. & it’s stunningly gorgeous. The Miami skyline shoots out of the sand in the distance and it’s close enough to the city to make an easy getaway after breakfast.

9. Key Biscayne

My favorite part of the Miami area.

This little island connected by a large sea-bridge is gorgeous. We stealth camped in the main town center here so that we could watch the sunrise at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park –famous for its white lighthouse.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bill Baggs Cape FL State Park (@bill_baggs_state_park)

Hot Tip: Be sure to catch the sunset at Crandon Park just across the bridge toward Key Biscayne. Get there early because you definitely won’t be alone.

10. Matheson Hammock Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pure Florida™ (@pureflorida)

Looking for a more family friendly beach? This breezy man-made atoll is about as idyllic as it gets. & everyone should be fully clothed.

11. Biscayne National Park

Unfortunately, we didn’t actually make it here.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Biscayne National Park (@biscaynenps)

Jutting off the East Coast of Florida you might confuse it with the Keys. These little islands are not connected via land bridge however. So, you’ll have to hop on a boat. But the most beautiful destinations are often difficult to reach.

World class snorkeling, diving, fishing, and canoeing through the mangroves can keep you busy for weeks. It’s truly one of the best hidden gems of Florida and although difficult to reach on a road trip…so worth it.

12. The Florida Keys

The keys might as well be an entirely different state. Stretching 113 miles off the coast of Florida it’s a long beautiful drive. Key West is a quirky little tourist town with rocky shores and delicious pie. But there is a lot more to the keys than Key West.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Kayak through mangroves looking for sea turtles and manatees, snorkel right off shore above nurse sharks, or join a boat trip to drop you directly on the reef. There is tons to do at this state park.

Hot Tip: Personally, I was underwhelmed by the rocky beach and the water clarity for snorkeling off-shore but it all depends on the time of year you go. I would highly recommend kayaking and taking a snorkel tour if that’s your cup of tea.

Super laid back and undeveloped. Worth a drive through at the very least.

Big Pine Key

Drive around this key to spot Key Deer. A teeny endangered species of deer that can only be found here.

Veterans Memorial Park

If you’re looking for an easily accessible soft sand beach…look no further. The keys aren’t actually renowed for their beaches but this one is quite nice.

Seven-mile Bridge

If you’re road-tripping down to the Florida Keys you’ll cross this bridge. It’s a 7-mile stretch of highway crossing wide-open ocean. It’s a little unsettling but very scenic.

13. Everglades

Did you come to Florida to see some gators?? This is the place to do it.

The wildlife here is incredible. You’ll have the opportunity to spot Crocodiles, Alligators, Roseate Spoonbills, and even Florida Panthers. The Everglades flood after hurricanes or storms throughout the year but if you time your visit right you can explore these trails & viewpoints.

• Anhinga Wildlife Loop.
• Coastal Prairie Trailhead.
• Flamingo Beach.
• Shark Valley Observation Center.

14. Chokoloskee

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🇨🇴 Creator 🇺🇲 (@matthewhoyos)

Drive out to this tiny little teardrop-shaped island and you won’t find much. But it’s the best place to hire a fan boat to take you out through the marshes. Known as the 10,000 islands region it’s also one of the best places to spot the massive White Pelican.

Hot Tip: No need to hire in advance. Just head to the docks and there will be flyers and boat owners milling about.

15. Bowman’s Beach & Captiva Island

We’ve finally made it to the gulf coast on our Florida road trip. This means warmer waveless water. Even though I preferred the East Coast, most travelers gravitate to the Gulf side. Bowman’s Beach is one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast.

& it’s famous for seashell collecting! Millions of seashells roll up onto the beach and have created a unique landscape perfect for a day in the sand.

Hot Tip: You’ll have to pay for parking and there is no food around so be sure to bring snacks.

16. Sanibel Island

If you’re doing this road trip in an RV or converted van this is the perfect place for some beach camping. You can pull your vehicle right onto the sand at Causeway Islands Park and eat lunch or set up camp just feet from the ocean water.

& if you’re not sick of swimming, snorkeling, and lounging yet…the beaches here are pretty wonderful. I recommend Bailey’s Beach Park .

Hot Tip: If you are stealth camping overnight by the water, be sure to park above the high tide line. Unless you want to wake up with your wheels underwater that is.

17. Stump Pass Beach State Park

Florida has some amazing state parks. In fact, I would say that’s one of the most underrated things to do in Florida.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BaldZ Photo (@baldzphoto)

This state park happens to be a beach. So, I hope you’re not sick of them quite yet. White sands covered in weird stumps, this secluded beach juts out into the warm gulf waters and is more than a mile-long.

18. Manasota Key

This is the island you’ll find Stump Pass Beach State Park, so you might as well explore it further. It’s got some killer beaches rimmed with tropical foliage and one of the can’t miss drives through Florida.

19. Myakka River State Park

There’s one big reason to visit here. Deep Hole. This huge wetland offers great opportunities to see loads of wildlife life like gators and birds, but this giant deep hole is the real attraction. Following a 2.2 mile hike, you’ll reach a 200 ft wide sinkhole absolutely brimming with alligators. If you’re looking for a good gator photo this is the place to be. The hike is mostly flat and if you’re lucky you might see a wild hog rooting around the prairie landscape

You can also check out the canopy walkway while you’re here.

Hot Tip: They only give out 30 passes to hike Deep Hole per day. It’s free but first come, first serve. So, get to the ranger station by 8 AM.

20. St. Andrews State Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by RosieTaylorPhotography (@rosietaylorphoto)

Frequently, hailed as one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast we couldn’t miss it. But unfortunately, thanks to the hurricane damage in the area, we had to. This state park boasts white shores, green water, and great kayaking.

21. Gulf Island National Seashore

For the final stop on your Florida road trip, I recommend the Gulf National Seashore. Definitely, at sunset. Overnight if you can. There are plenty of pull-outs great for stealth camping. This strip of soft white beach actually stretches all the way to Mississippi through Alabama if you want to keep chasing the sand.

Florida Road Trip Map

Here’s your Florida road trip map already labeled with all the destinations above.

Florida is hands down one of the best (& most overlooked) destinations for a road trip in the USA. If you’re a wildlife fanatic, a beach bum, hiking enthusiast, or looking for a faux tropical getaway, a Florida road trip is exactly what the doctor ordered.

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Further Reading...

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Florida Scenic Drives: Stunning Road Trips in the Sunshine State

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Planning a trip to florida - tripscholars.

[…] of Florida is unmatched by any state in the continental United States  In a single day, during a Florida road trip, you can drive from the rolling waves of the East Coast to the dense panther-filled jungles in […]

Go Wander Wild

Wow, your pictures of Florida are stunning! They really make us want to pack our bags and go!

Alexa Jordan

Great suggestions. So much about Florida to love besides theme parks.

David Richardson

This was a great list! I agree with Alexa- there are a lot of theme parks that take all the attention. We are taking Red Coach buses around the state (at least these areas: https://www.redcoachusa.com/florida/ ) and have so much to see! I will definitely add your suggestions to our list.

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