10 incredible road trips in Florida

Discover some of the best road trips in Florida and take in stunning views while discovering the Sunshine State’s rich history. Have an adventure in impressive state parks, follow scenic routes down the Atlantic Coast, and enjoy sun-soaked beaches as well as captivating museums.

Buckle up and embark on an unforgettable trip filled with fun, nature and culture.

Distance: 427 miles

With its pristine beaches and diverse wildlife, Amelia Island is one of the most beautiful places in Florida. While you’re there, don’t hesitate to explore Fort Clinch State Park’s hiking trails and the well-conserved 19th-century fort. Hire a car and go down to Jacksonville, a city worth visiting where urban life blends with the outdoors. Take a break at Renu at Jacksonville’s spacious apartments.

On the way, stop by some beautiful sandy beaches like St. Augustine Beach and take a dip in the ocean before exploring outer space at the famous Kennedy Space Center. Then, continue South to West Palm Beach for entertainment, cultural attractions and shopping.

Further down the coast, be inspired by Boca Raton’s Mediterranean-esque architecture and Fort Lauderdale’s family-friendly atmosphere. Finally, head to Miami to enjoy the Magic City’s impressive skyline, Art Deco buildings, innumerable shops and vibrant nightlife.

You’ll enjoy this Florida road trip the most in spring or in autumn.

Distance: 168 miles

Start this cross-Florida road trip in Saint Petersburg, home to the renowned Salvador Dalí Museum. Then, drive to Tampa, a city known for its cultural offerings and historic Ybor City neighbourhood.

For your next stop, head east to Orlando, the world’s theme park capital. Home to both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, you’ll need to stay for a few days to make the most of it.

Continue your journey to Cocoa Beach, which is known for its calm waves. Why not rent a board and take a surfing lesson? Don’t miss the Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf shop. Located just five minutes' drive from the public beaches, Beach Place Guesthouses is a great place to relax.

This road trip is ideal between November and March to enjoy calm waves.

Distance: 166 miles

Starting in Tampa, discover the Florida Aquarium’s interactive exhibits, or attend an art class at the Museum of Art. Or enjoy a low-key evening exploring the city’s bars and restaurants.

Then, drive south to Fort Myers, a beach city famous for its Royal Palm trees imported from Cuba. Get some rest at Villa San Carlos Park.

Naples is the ideal place to end this Florida road trip by exploring high-end boutiques, enjoying a sophisticated dinner or hitting the beach for magnificent sunset views.

The best time to visit these cities is between October to December.

Distance: 100 miles

While Naples is widely known for being one of the best destinations for a beach trip in Florida, it has even more to offer. Whether you’re more into seafood or authentic Italian cuisine, there are over 700 restaurants, so you have plenty of great options. Reserve some time to explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens, featuring over 1,000 species of flora.

Then, drive to the Everglades National Park, the largest wetland in North America. This incredibly naturally diverse park is home to threatened and endangered species such as American alligators, bird species, plants or invertebrates. The park is a unique spot for bird-watching, fishing, hiking, biking or boating. You can stay at Maria's Los Cirhuelos, an apartment located in Homestead.

We recommend visiting from November to April, which is the dry season.

Distance: 164 miles

Fall in love with Florida views on a road trip along the Overseas Highway. Start your journey in Miami and drive south towards the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This colourful, nautical park is home to a variety of aquatic plants and animal species, but also offers water activities like kayaking.

Then, head to Marathon, a popular fishing spot where you can visit the Turtle Hospital. This nonprofit dedicated to turtle rescue and rehabilitation will fascinate children and adults alike with its informative tours.

End your trip in Key West, Florida’s southernmost point, where you can spend one night at the lovely Authors Key West Guesthouse.

The best time to take this Florida road trip is during winter or spring.

Distance: 634 miles

Start this spectacular road trip by visiting the breathtaking waterfalls of Falling Waters State Park. On your way south, explore Gainesville, home to the Florida Museum of Natural History with hundreds of butterflies and birds in its ‘Butterfly Rainforest’. Spend the night at this highly rated two-bedroom apartment.

While Orlando is famous for its amusement parks, its natural parks are no less impressive. Head to Rock Springs Run Wildlife Management Area for its biking and hiking trails or drive towards the Atlantic Coast and its beautiful beaches by West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Finish this nature-filled road trip in Florida in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the perfect place for water activities like snorkelling, fishing or going on a boat tour.

To enjoy the beaches, we recommend going between November and April.

Distance: 205 miles

There’s more to the city of Pensacola than meets the eye. Its miles of white sand beaches and clear waters won’t fail to amaze. But it’s also a cultural city with diverse influences and many museums, such as the National Aviation Museum.

Head to Falling Waters States Park and follow the boardwalk down to Florida’s highest waterfall and sinkhole. Next, drive east towards Marianna, also known as ‘The City of Southern Charm’, from where you can access the Florida Caverns State Park. Take a 45-minute guided tour through the caverns or relax at the Blue Springs Recreational Park. The colourful Fairfield Inn & Suites Marianna is nearby.

Wrap up your road trip by driving to Florida state capital, Tallahassee.

Enjoy this road trip either in spring or autumn.

Distance: 82 miles

While this road trip is a short one – perfect for one day – there’s plenty to see on the way.
Start in Sarasota, a city with lovely beaches, restaurants led by award-winning chefs and great shopping. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art will fascinate fans of the circus, especially children.

Next, spend some time in Punta Gorda. This town’s parks, beaches and beautiful nature, such as the Alligator Creek Preserve, will keep you busy for the day. Get some sleep at The Suites at Fishermen's Village and enjoy the view of the river.

The last stop is Pine Island, which will delight those in search of serenity and solitude.

The best times to visit are from February to March or from late October to late December.

Distance: 30 miles

Start this short road trip in Panama City Beach. Its blissful beaches, emerald waters and local seafood will provide plenty of relaxation. The city is also home to the state parks of Saint Andrews and Camp Helen, ideal for more sunbathing and fantastic hiking.

Then, hit Route 98 and enjoy the scenic drive towards Laguna Beach, famous for its fishing and boating opportunities. If you’re up for something more adventurous, explore the Conservation Park nearby before getting some rest at the lovely Seaside Laguna Inn & Suites.

End your trip at the historic beach village of Grayton Beach. The area is surrounded by fascinating dune lakes, plus Grayton Beach State Park.

Between November and March is the best time to visit.

Distance: 26 miles

This short road trip begins in Ocala, making the first stop at the Silver Springs State Park. While you can’t swim here, you can take a guided glass-bottom kayak or paddleboard tour to admire the park’s wildlife.

Finally, head to the Ocala National Forest, home to an estimated 1,000 bears. On top of doing fun water activities such as canoeing or kayaking, you can also go hiking or cycling along one of the popular nature trails, or camp for the night. The best time to visit the forest is during winter, when temperatures are mild and it isn’t too busy.

Looking for somewhere to stay? The Candlewood Suites hotel is only a 10-minute drive from Ocala’s city centre.