7 Best Road Trips in Florida

Hey there travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my 7 best road trips in Florida to warm the tires up on this year. Embarking on a road trip in Florida is the ideal way to experience the state’s varied landscapes, whether cruising down the legendary Overseas Highway or reveling in the scenic views of the Atlantic Coast. Florida’s routes are lined with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and everything in between.

With stops planned whenever and wherever you wish, and the freedom to discover at your own pace, your Florida road trip can be tailored to suit your interests, whether you’re seeking family fun, romantic getaways or solo exploration.

Best Road Trips In Florida

Planning your road trip in Florida can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many options for destinations, activities and accommodations, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start.

The first step then is to decide on your itinerary. So let’s begin then with some good starting points and destinations to consider.

1. The Overseas Highway: Key Largo to Key West

The Overseas Highway, stretching approximately 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, offers a unique blend of scenic views, cultural experiences and aquatic adventures.

Distance: 113 miles
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours without stops

Your journey begins at Mile Marker 106 in Key Largo, the largest island in the Florida Keys. You’ll travel south on U.S. Highway 1, the key artery connecting the archipelago and eventually reach Key West at Mile Marker 0, the southernmost point of the continental United States.

Prepare to be immersed in expansive ocean views – as long as you keep your eyes on the road that is – as the route takes you over 42 bridges including the renowned Seven Mile Bridge, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other.

Notable Stops & Activities

As you make your way along the Overseas Highway, there are essential stops that can turn your road trip into an unforgettable experience:

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (MM 102.5)

  Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders at this park which features vibrant coral reefs accessible by snorkeling or diving.

• Robbie’s of Islamorada (MM 77.5)

  Feed the massive tarpons, browse the eclectic shops or indulge in classic Keys cuisine.

• Bahia Honda State Park (MM 36.8)

  Stop for picturesque beaches and possible sightings of the Miami Blue Butterfly.

• Key Deer Refuge (MM 30.5)

  Glimpse the endangered Key deer, a subspecies found only in the Florida Keys.

Remember, while the drive can be completed in a few hours, the true allure of the Overseas Highway is discovered in the journey, not just the destination. Indulge in detours, take in the sights and experience the unique charm of the Florida Keys.

Check out these: Best Family Resorts in the Florida Keys

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2. The Atlantic Coast: Miami to Jacksonville

Embark on a scenic journey along Florida’s eastern shoreline, where the waves of the Atlantic Ocean set a serene backdrop for an array of beachside attractions and historical landmarks that await you between Miami and Jacksonville.

Beachside Attractions

Driving north from Miami, your first notable stop should be the vibrant Fort Lauderdale, with its expansive beachfront and bustling boardwalk. For a quieter experience, Cocoa Beach offers an idyllic spot to surf or soak up the sun. Then as you continue, it’s also worth taking a detour to explore the picturesque sands of Saint Augustine Beach as well.

• Fort Lauderdale: Walk and shop along the beachfront promenade.
• Cocoa Beach: Known for excellent surfing conditions and the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier.

Historic Sites

St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, is a treasure trove of colonial history with must-visit landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos. Just a short drive away, the cobbled streets of the historic district will enchant you with their timeless allure. Meanwhile, Titusville provides an opportunity to delve into space history at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, blending the past with visions of the future.

• St. Augustine: Visit Castillo de San Marcos and wander the historic district.
• Titusville: Explore the Kennedy Space Center and Astronaut Hall of Fame.

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3. The Gulf Coast: Naples to Pensacola

Spanning over 200 miles, this road trip introduces you to Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast, with white sandy beaches and an array of natural and cultural attractions. There is plenty to see here as well including:

Coastal Nature Escapes

Start your adventure in Naples, known for its luxurious ambiance and pristine beaches and whilst you are there, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to a diverse ecosystem.

Continuing along the coast, stop by the Crystal River area to swim with the gentle sea cows in the manatee capital of the world. The trip culminates in Pensacola, offering the best things to do such as exploring the white sands of Pensacola Beach and the historic Fort Pickens.

Cultural Experiences

Your journey along the Gulf Coast isn’t just about nature; it’s also ripe with cultural experiences. Start by exploring the vibrant arts scene in St. Petersburg with its Dalí Museum or enjoy live music and local cuisine in the historic Ybor City in Tampa.

As you make your way to Pensacola, take a dive into history aboard the USS Alabama in Mobile Bay or immerse yourself in the blend of Spanish and French colonial heritage influencing the region’s architecture and festivals.

Book your road trip accommodation here!

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4. Central Florida Road Trip

Embarking on a Central Florida road trip offers a perfect blend of thrilling theme park adventures and serene natural escapes. Starting in Orlando, and not really venturing too much further, this is a great option for a good family vacation in Florida as well.

Orlando’s Theme Parks

In Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, you have the opportunity to experience world-famous attractions. Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort provide you with endless entertainment with parks like Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios Florida.

Each park boasts its signature rides and experiences that cater to both the young and the young at heart.

Natural Springs and Lakes

Central Florida is not only about theme parks. It’s also a treasure trove of pristine natural springs and serene lakes where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Weikiwa Springs or enjoy a canoe trip down the peaceful Rock Springs Run. F

or a quintessential Floridian experience, visit Lake Eola in downtown Orlando, where you can enjoy a leisurely paddle boat ride around the iconic fountain as well.

Check out these: Best Theme Parks in Orlando

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5. Florida Panhandle Route

Embark on your journey through the Florida Panhandle Route, where you’ll encounter some of the most pristine white sand beaches and explore an array of state parks rich with natural beauty and recreational activities.

White Sand Beaches

Your adventure begins at Navarre Beach with its white sand beaches often noted for its peaceful atmosphere. To add another beach destination to your itinerary, Shell Island’s secluded shores offer picture-perfect scenery as well. Accessible from Panama City Beach, this is an area well worth a visit.

Hiking in State Parks

In contrast to the beach scene, the state parks of the Florida Panhandle present lush landscapes and wildlife encounters as well. Visitors here can hike among the diverse trails of Florida’s state parks like the half-mile Living Forest Trail or the more challenging 2.2-mile Bear Creek Trail.

Check out these: Best Hiking Trails in Florida

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6. Scenic Drives: A1A and Big Bend

Florida’s picturesque byways offer a driving experience like no other, pairing coastal vistas with historical intrigue. Your journey will take you along the famous State Road A1A and through the panoramic routes of the Big Bend region.

Ocean Views and Beach Towns

Driving along the State Road A1A, you encounter a stretch of coastline that’s both lively and serene. You can take in the ocean views on one side and the rhythm of beach towns on the other. Your trip along this scenic route can include stops at historic lighthouses and bustling marinas, offering plenty to see and do.

Whether it’s the sunrise over the Atlantic or the local culture, A1A delivers an authentic Florida road trip experience.

Rural Landscapes

The Big Bend Scenic Byway, on the other hand, will take you through more rural landscapes where it’s about the natural beauty and the Old Florida charm. From Bald Point State Park to Apalachicola, prepare to encounter sweeping marsh views, quiet fishing villages and an abundance of wildlife.

This part of Florida shows off the quiet majesty of the state’s natural habitats, unmarred by the hustle of the city.

Book your road trip accommodation here!

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7. Tropical Adventure: Tamiami Trail

Embark on a journey through the Tamiami Trail for a blend of natural wonders and scenic byways. Your adventure brings you face-to-face with the unique ecosystems of the Everglades and the quaint towns along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Everglades National Park

The Tamiami Trail serves as a direct route into the heart of the Everglades National Park, a treasure trove of ecological diversity. Your journey through this landscape will take you past the Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center and onto memorable locations such as the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk.

Here, you’ll witness a mosaic of wetlands, marshes and wildlife as well as the chance to spot alligators, tropical birds and the lush flora that make this ecosystem one of a kind.

• Must-Visit Spots:
  • Everglades City
  • Chokoloskee Island
  • Shark Valley Visitor Center

Gulf Coast Discoveries

As you venture further along the Tamiami Trail, the allure of the Gulf Coast awaits. Prepare to be charmed by picturesque seaside towns and the undisturbed beauty of nature reserves. From Naples to the Ten Thousand Islands Nature Reserve, your route is lined with opportunities to explore Florida’s breathtaking Gulf Coast landscapes.

Take your time to discover the hidden gems and tranquil waters that define this unforgettable part of your road trip.

• Highlights Include:
  • Naples: pristine beaches and vibrant local life
  • Ten Thousand Islands: a boater’s paradise with intricate waterways and fishing opportunities

Choosing Your Ideal Florida Road Trip

When planning your Florida road trip, it’s essential to consider what experiences you’re seeking and when it’s best to embark on your journey to make the most of it.

Factors to Consider

• Destinations: Are you drawn to beachfront drives with the ocean in view, or do you prefer exploring the interior, with its unique natural landscapes?
• Activities: Whether you’re hoping to engage in water sports or you’re on a quest to visit iconic attractions, your activities will influence your route.
• Travel Companions: A family-friendly itinerary might include kid-centric stops, while a trip with friends might focus on adventure or nightlife.
• Budget: Your funds will affect everything from lodging to attractions. Traveling on a budget? Look for options like camps to save money.
• Distance and Duration: Your available time and willingness to drive long distances will also shape your road trip. Longer routes offer more diverse experiences but require more time.

Best Time to Travel

• Weather Considerations: Florida’s subtropical climate means year-round travel is possible, but consider avoiding hurricane season (June to November) for coastal routes.
• Peak vs. Off-Peak: Traveling during off-peak seasons can mean fewer crowds and lower prices, particularly in tourist hotspots like Miami Beach or the Everglades National Park.

FAQs

conclusion

There you have it, my 7 best Florida road trip options to hit the road with this year. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences here. Or of course if there are any other road trips you can recommend.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul