Florida, the Sunshine State, offers a diverse landscape of beaches, cities, and natural wonders perfect for road-tripping. From the panhandle to the Keys, an adventure awaits around every corner. Let’s explore 15 fantastic Florida road trips with route suggestions and personal tips to make your journey unforgettable.
The Florida Keys: Miami To Key West
- Route: Take US-1 South from Miami to Key West.
- Distance: 166 miles
- Duration: 3-5 days
The drive from Miami to Key West is a classic Florida road trip. You’ll cross 42 bridges, including the Seven Mile Bridge, as you island-hop to the southernmost point of the continental United States. Stop at Bahia Honda State Park for some of the best beaches in the Keys. The old railroad bridge offers a great photo opportunity.
Gulf Coast Beach Hopping: Clearwater to Naples
- Route: Follow Gulf Boulevard and US-19 South.
- Distance: 200 miles.
- Duration: 4-6 days
Explore some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches on this Gulf Coast adventure. Start in Clearwater and go south, stopping at St. Pete Beach, Siesta Key, and Fort Myers Beach before ending in Naples. Don’t miss the sunset at Naples Pier. It’s a local tradition and a breathtaking sight.
Orlando Theme Park Tour
- Route: Circle around Orlando
- Distance: 50-60 miles
- Duration: 5-7 days
While not a traditional road trip, driving between Orlando’s world-famous theme parks is an adventure. Visit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and LEGOLAND Florida. Buy multi-day passes to save money, and plan your visit during the off-season to avoid crowds.
Historic Coast: St. Augustine to Amelia Island
- Route: Take A1A North
- Distance: 70 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Explore Florida’s rich history on this coastal drive. Start in St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., and head north to the charming Amelia Island. Take a ghost tour in St. Augustine for a spooky and educational experience.
Natural Springs Tour: Gainesville To Ocala
- Route: Follow US-441 South
- Distance: 40 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Florida’s natural springs are a hidden gem. Start at Ginnie Springs near Gainesville and go to Silver Springs State Park in Ocala. Rent a transparent kayak at Silver Springs to fully appreciate the crystal-clear water and marine life below.
Emerald Coast: Pensacola to Panama City Beach
- Route: Follow US-98 East
- Distance: 100 miles
- Duration: 3-4 days
Experience the stunning white sand beaches and emerald waters of Florida’s panhandle. Start in Pensacola and drive east to Panama City Beach, stopping at Destin and Fort Walton Beach. For a less crowded beach experience, visit Henderson Beach State Park in Destin.
Space Coast: Kennedy Space Center to Sebastian Inlet
- Route: Take A1A South
- Distance: 72 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Blast off on a space-themed adventure. Start at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral and head south along the Atlantic coast. Time your visit with a rocket launch for an unforgettable experience. Check the launch schedule in advance.
Everglades Adventure: Miami to Everglades City
- Route: Take US-41 West
- Distance: 80 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
This wild road trip explores the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Starting in Miami, you head west into the heart of the Everglades. Take an airboat tour to spot alligators and other wildlife up close.
Central Florida’s Lake Region: Winter Haven to Mount Dora
- Route: Follow US-27 North
- Distance: 70 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Discover Florida’s charming lake towns on this central Florida trip. Start in Winter Haven, home to LEGOLAND, and end in the quaint town of Mount Dora. Take a scenic boat tour in Mount Dora to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty.
Florida Caverns Tour: Marianna to Gainesville
- Route: Take I-10 East, then US-90 East
- Distance: 200 miles
- Duration: 3-4 days
Explore Florida’s underground wonders. Start at Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna and go to Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park near Gainesville. Bring a light jacket even in summer – the caves can be cool year-round.
Treasure Coast: Vero Beach to West Palm Beach
- Route: Follow A1A South
- Distance: 70 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Discover the beaches and culture of Florida’s Treasure Coast. Start in Vero Beach and head south to West Palm Beach. Visit the Blowing Rocks Preserve in Jupiter for a unique natural spectacle during high tide.
Forgotten Coast: Apalachicola to St. Marks
- Route: Take US-98 East
- Distance: 70 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Experience old Florida charm on this less-traveled coastal route. Start in the historic town of Apalachicola and end at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Try the world-famous Apalachicola oysters while in town.
Citrus Belt: Lakeland to Clermont
- Route: Take US-27 North
- Distance: 60 miles
- Duration: 2 days
Journey through Florida’s citrus country. Start in Lakeland and head north to Clermont, stopping at Orange Grove. Visit the Florida Citrus Tower in Clermont for panoramic views of the surrounding orange groves.
Art Deco Tour: Miami Beach to Palm Beach
- Route: Follow A1A North
- Distance: 70 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Admire the stunning Art Deco architecture of South Florida. Start in Miami Beach’s famous Art Deco District and head north to Palm Beach. Take a guided walking tour in Miami Beach to learn about the history and significance of the Art Deco buildings.
Suwannee River Journey: White Springs to Cedar Key
- Route: Follow US-129 South, then SR-24 West
- Distance: 100 miles
- Duration: 2-3 days
Follow the famous Suwannee River from White Springs to Cedar Key, which meets the Gulf of Mexico. Stop at Fanning Springs State Park for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear spring waters.
Essential Road Trip Tips For Florida
- Sun Protection: Florida’s sun can be intense. Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in rural areas and near water.
- Weather Watch: Florida’s weather can change quickly. Check forecasts and be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms, especially in summer.
- Wildlife Awareness: Keep safe from wildlife, especially alligators, near water bodies.
- Off-Season Travel: Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-November) for fewer crowds and milder weather.
- Water Safety: If swimming in natural springs or the ocean, be aware of currents and potential hazards.
- Local Cuisine: Try regional specialties like key lime pie, Cuban sandwiches, and fresh seafood.
- State Park Pass: If you plan to visit multiple state parks, consider purchasing an annual pass to save money.
- Toll Roads: Many Florida highways are toll roads. Consider getting a SunPass for convenience or keep cash on hand.
- Beach Parking: Many beaches charge for parking. Bring quarters or download parking apps in advance.
Florida’s diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush forests and vibrant cities, make it an ideal destination for road-tripping. Each of these 15 routes offers a unique glimpse into the Sunshine State’s natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on white sand beaches, adventure in the great outdoors, or a journey through time in historic towns, Florida has a road trip for every traveler. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and be flexible with your plans.
Some of the best road trip memories are unexpected detours and spontaneous discoveries. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the best of Florida on these fantastic road trips.