17 Secret Florida Road Trips You Will Absolutely Love!
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No matter the kind of traveler: the Sunshine State never disappoints.
Discover 17 of the very best Florida road trips for your next getaway.
We promise there’s so much to see!
The Sunshine State is full of spectacular sights, but there are a few routes that truly stand out. It’s true, most people visit Florida looking for a tranquil beach getaway. Yet we firmly believe that the best way to experience the state is by driving around. Let us show you the very best road trips in Florida you will fall in love with. Get ready to hit the road!
No matter what kind of travel you prefer, there is sure to be a route that you will love.
Whether you are captivated by stunning nature that seems almost unreal. Or fascinated by charming towns bursting with vibrant hues. Or even enchanted by picturesque beaches that transport you to a tropical haven.
There is something for everyone!
I’ll show you the most breathtakingly beautiful scenic drives.
Perfect to plan fun Florida road trips, full of unforgettable, sun-filled excursions.
Planning your trip to Miami last minute?
Let me help you!
Here are our favorite experiences, tours, hotels and more: no need to stress out, we have you covered!
Don’t forget to plan ahead also when visiting Orlando!
Top Activities and Tours in Miami & Orlando:
1. Open-top tour and Millionaire’s Row Cruise
2. Biscayne Bay Evening Cruise
3. Everglades National Park Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show
4. Kennedy Space Center Entrance Ticket
5. Orlando Hop On Hop Off Trolley Pass
Our Favorite Hotels in Miami:
1. Mandarin Oriental
2. Mondrian South Beach
3. Shelley Hotel
Our Favorite Hotels in Orlando:
1. Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
2. Floridays Condo
3. Universal’s Endless Summer Resort
Click to check out the updated rates to rent a car!
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A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway
The A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway is a 72-mile (115 km) stretch of road that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean along the east coast of Florida.
It is considered one of Florida’s most quintessential drives.
Perfect if you are looking to enjoy natural beauty and history.
The best time to take this road trip is during the fall or winter months.
When the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.
The temperatures are generally cooler, so exploring the outdoors will be more comfortable.
However, if you are looking for a summer beach vacation, then the months of June through August are the busiest and the most popular for tourists.
Our guide to the best time to visit Florida will be super useful for this trip!
Along the way you will get to stop at some of Florida’ top 10 beaches.
Including Daytona Beach, Flagler Beach and Ormond Beach.
Take a walk, enjoy the sun and the sand, and soak up the natural beauty of the coastline.
Other stops on the A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway include St. Augustine.
Which is considered among the most charming towns in Florida, also thanks to the St. Augustine Lighthouse.
You can then explore Fort Matanzas National Monument.
And you’ll get to decide whether visiting the Marineland Dolphin Adventure or sipping wines at the Flagler Beachfront Winery.
What if you want to stop overnight?
This can be a pretty long drive.
I highly suggest you either split it into smaller chunks (find some Florida road trip ideas below). Or just find a place to stay for at least one night.
There are plenty of hotels and resorts along this scenic byway!
Here’s my top 3:
- Casa Monica Resort & Spa in St. Augustine – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
- Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort (Daytona Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
- Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast (Palm Coast) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
North Florida Springs
From the clear waters of Ichetucknee Springs to the stunning Blue Spring State Park, this road trip takes you to some of Florida’s most beautiful natural wonders!
The North Florida Springs trip showcases some of the most pristine springs in the state.
Offering you the opportunity to swim, snorkel, kayak, and hike in a unique natural setting.
The road trip will take you through the Sunshine State’s picturesque countryside, with stops at several state parks, forests, and conservation areas.
One of my favorite stops is the Ichetucknee Springs State Park, which is a lot of fun if you enjoy swimming, kayaking or tubing in the clear waters of the springs.
Another amazing park is the Fanning Springs State Park. The clear blue spring there is just amazing.
Not only super instagrammable but also perfect for swimming.
There are also many picnic areas and playgrounds for those planning a trip to Florida with the kids!
Make sure you also add the O’Leno State Park to your itinerary.
It’s home to the Santa Fe river – and to some absolutely great hiking trails.
Last but not least, there’s a lesser known place you should consider.
The Ginnie Springs Outdoors is a privately-owned park, popular among the scuba divers.
The best springs there are the Devil’s Eye and Devil’s Ear.
Even if you aren’t into scuba diving, the water is so clear that you can have an amazing time even just snorkeling!
What if you want to stop overnight?
There are several campgrounds and hotels along the North Florida Springs Road Trip route.
Some of the best camping options include the Ichetucknee Springs State Park Campground, the O’Leno State Park Campground, and the Ginnie Springs Outdoors Campground.
If you are looking for a hotel or a rental, here are my favorite ones:
- Best Western Gateway Grand (Gainesville) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
- This romantic cottage by the lake in Gainesville – Check the updated rates on VRBO.
Florida Keys Scenic Highway
Miami to Key West is more than just a scenic drive – it’s a right of passage!
This 113-mile (181 km) road will bring you from the glitz of Miami down to the natural wonders that are the Florida Keys.
Passing through 42 bridges, 32 islands and breathtaking beaches.
We have a super detailed guide on the best stops for the perfect Miami to Key West itinerary that you can check out.
If you’re more of a visual traveler, you can also watch our Overseas Highway video guide.
Let me just say that, while you can plan this as a day trip, the best way to go is by stopping overnight.
There’s so much to see and do!
From the fun activities in Islamorada to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Bahia Honda State Park and of course Key West.
You definitely won’t regret having spent more time here!
What if you want to stop overnight?
This South Florida trip deserves some love.
Make sure you spend at least one night in the area to enjoy all this part of the Sunshine State has to offer!
Or, even better, plan a weekend in Key West. You’ll get to experience the island vibes and you’ll have a blast!
Here are my top 3 hotels:
- Cheeca Lodge & Spa (Islamorada) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
- Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort (Marathon) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
- Casa Marina Key West (Key West) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Into the Everglades
Loop Road
The Loop Road is a scenic drive through the heart of the Big Cypress National Preserve.
Located in the Florida Everglades National Park.
This 24-mile (38 km) stretch of road offers visitors a chance to experience the unique beauty and wildlife of the area.
The road is unpaved and can be bumpy in some areas.
While it’s recommended to drive slowly and carefully, it is worth your while!
If you have rented a car, make sure you check if you actually can use it on unpaved roads.
This drive should take you about 2-3 hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way.
One of the best stops on the Loop Road is the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk.
Here you will have the chance to see a ton of bird species, as well as alligators and turtles.
Another popular stop is the Oasis Visitor Center, where visitors can learn about the ecology of the Everglades.
Stop here also to pick up maps and information about the area!
As you drive, you’ll see a variety of landscapes, including cypress swamps, pine forests, and grassy prairies.
Also let me offer you a tip.
Keep your camera at hand!
It is not uncommon to spot alligators, snakes, turtles, and colorful birds.
Alligator Alley
Another amazing road trip with a view through the Florida Everglades is the Alligator Alley.
This 80-mile (128 km) stretch of highway (I-75) runs between Naples and Fort Lauderdale.
The drive should take about 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic and how many stops you make along the way.
One of the highlights of the drive is the opportunity to see alligators in their natural habitat.
You may also see turtles, birds, and even the super elusive Florida panther, if you’re lucky.
One of the best stops along the way is (again) the Big Cypress National Preserve.
Here you can drive through the preserve and stop at the Oasis Visitor Center.
Tamiami Trail
Although you can drive to the Everglades from Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale on Alligator Alley and get there much faster, the Tamiami Trail will get you closer to its nature.
This historic road in fact runs through the heart of the Everglades.
Connecting Miami to Tampa.
It is considered one of the best road trips in the Sunshine State.
The drive should take you 4-5 hours.
But it really depends on traffic and how many stops you make along the way.
Make sure you allocate enough time for this in your Florida itinerary!
The Tamiami Trail is fully paved and easily accessible by car.
As you drive along the trail, you’ll see wetlands, sawgrass prairies, and cypress forests.
We found it super easy to spot alligators and turtles.
Birds were also everywhere, especially Great Blue Herons and Anhingas.
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One of the best stops along the Tamiami Trail is at the Shark Valley Visitor Center.
This entrance to the Everglades National Park will allow you to take a tram ride or bike ride through the heart of the park.
For us it was worth the time!
We had a lot of fun, got up close and personal to the local wildlife and got to know an Italian-American ranger who told us everything about the Everglades.
Another interesting stop you can add to a unique Florida itinerary is the world’s smallest post office.
It only has 40 P.O. boxes and sends a postman out every day to serve 300 patrons… on a 170-mile (273 km) route!
You’ll find it about 65 miles (104 km) west of Miami or 35 miles (56 km) east of Naples on the Tamiami Trail.
What if you want to stop overnight?
Spending the night in the area can be a good idea if this is part of a longer road trip through Florida.
Otherwise, at least for our personal experience, driving back to Miami or even Fort Lauderdale is absolutely doable!
The thing is, there aren’t many places to stay.
Our top choice is The Ivey House (Everglades City).
Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail
If you’re in the Daytona area of northern Florida, make sure to add the Ormond Scenic Loop to your list of must-see attractions!
This road trip is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the state.
It will treat you to breathtaking ocean views and lush sections lined with live oaks and Spanish moss that create a serene cathedral-like ceiling.
The surrounding area is filled with state parks, historic sites, and stunning landscapes at every turn.
For beach lovers, North Peninsula State Park is a must-visit destination where you can swim, fish, birdwatch, and even spot migrating whales during the winter months.
The park is also a prime location for viewing leatherback turtles, who frequently use the park’s beaches for nesting.
Another stop you can’t miss is Bulow Creek State Park, which is home to one of the largest live oak forests on Florida’s east coast.
The park’s hiking trails will give you the chance to spot plenty of wildlife.
Including white-tailed deer, barred owls, and more.
Me and Aldo got to meet a super cute baby-deer that was very comfortable with walking with humans.
In case you’re lucky like us, make sure you do not touch the deer!
If you pet them, you’ll leave a scent that could draw predators to it.
What if you want to stop overnight?
Do you want to spend more time enjoying this fabulous Florida road trip?
Add one more night as you plan the itinerary!
Here are our top 3 hotels along the way:
1. Oceanfront Inn and Suites (Ormond Shores) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. The Black Dolphin Inn (New Smyrna Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort (Daytona Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Gulf Coast Road Trip
The Gulf Coast Road Trip in Florida is a popular route that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Including white sand beaches and charming seaside towns.
The trip typically starts in the city of Tampa and ends in the city of Pensacola, covering a distance of approximately 550 miles (885 km).
The best stops along the way include Clearwater Beach, where visitors can soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful sand and crystal clear waters.
The historic city of St. Augustine is another must-visit destination, with its cobblestone streets and Spanish-style architecture.
The Gulf Islands National Seashore, located between Pensacola and Destin, offers miles of pristine beaches and dunes, making it an excellent spot for a picnic or a nature walk.
The entire trip can take anywhere from 5 to 10 days, depending on how many stops and detours you make.
During the drive, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast, with the azure waters stretching out as far as the eye can see.
You will also pass through quaint fishing villages, bustling resort towns, and charming historic districts.
What if you want to stop overnight?
Because this is a pretty long drive, splitting it into a few days would be ideal.
There are a lot of cute places to stay on the way from Tampa to Naples.
But you can definitely stop for the night wherever you want along the way!
Here are our top 3 hotels:
1. Don CeSar Hotel (St. Pete Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. WaterColor Inn (Santa Rosa Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Postcard Inn On The Beach (St. Pete Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
St. Augustine to Daytona Beach
The trip from St. Augustine to Daytona Beach in Florida is a short drive that offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and exploration.
It covers a distance of approximately 50 miles (80 km) and can take anywhere from one to two hours.
Depending on how many stops you make along the way.
Despite its relatively short distance, this Florida road trip will take you to unforgettable places.
You’ll be treated to views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush, tropical vegetation.
The road will also pass through charming beach towns and historic districts, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich culture and history.
Some of the best stops along the way include the Castillo de San Marcos, a historic fort located in St. Augustine.
The oldest city in Florida.
Make sure you also add the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse to your itinerary.
The views are truly amazing!
Another must-see place is the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier.
We spent our time there window shopping, walking hand in hand along the pier and having a ton of fun.
Two more things you should consider visiting are the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet and the Ormond Beach Scenic Loop and Trail.
It’s where you’ll get to explore miles of beautiful scenery.
One of those hiking trails where spotting the local wildlife is super easy!
What if you want to stop overnight?
This upper central Florida trip isn’t too long. Not long enough that you will need to spend the night along the way.
In case it is part of a longer itinerary and you need a place to stay, I have a few tips for you!
1. The Hilton Garden Inn Palm Coast (Flagler Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. Americas Best Value Inn Ocean Inn (St. Augustine) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. The Hyatt Place Daytona Beach (Daytona Beach Shores) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Miami to Palm Beach
The drive from Miami to Palm Beach in Florida runs along the Atlantic coast.
It covers a distance of approximately 80 miles (128 km).
Depending on traffic, consider two hours or two and a half hours to complete this road trip.
Along the way you will be treated to views of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful beach towns.
You’ll also get to see some of Florida’s top 10 beaches!
I’m thinking of Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton.
As well as smaller beach communities like Delray Beach and Boynton Beach.
That’s why I always suggest taking your time.
There’s a lot to see!
We loved the white sand beaches in Fort Lauderdale!
When we visited we got the chance to see sea turtles nests.
It was the first time for us!
Some of the best stops along the way include the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, one of the perfect date places in Miami.
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach are also super interesting.
You’ll get to visit a peaceful oasis of natural beauty and cultural exhibits.
Don’t forget your camera!
Other notable attractions along the route include the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach.
Housed in a historic mansion and offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
If you have enough time, add the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach to the itinerary!
They have an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.
What if you want to stop overnight?
Do you want to spend the night, or even a couple of days to enjoy the beaches and the lovely small towns?
Here are my suggestions!
1. Delray Sands Resort (Boca Raton) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. The Breakers Palm Beach (Palm Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa (Jupiter) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Orlando to St. Petersburg
A road trip from Orlando to St. Petersburg is a great way to explore the beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The distance between the two cities is approximately 120 miles (193 km).
Consider 2.5/3 hours to get there, depending on traffic.
As you travel west from Orlando, you’ll see the landscape gradually change.
From the theme park capital of the world to the stunning beaches and natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.
It’s amazing!
Along the way, you’ll pass through the city of Tampa, which is a great place to stop and explore.
In Tampa you can visit Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and the Tampa Bay History Center.
Once you arrive in St. Petersburg, there are plenty of things to see and do.
The city is home to beautiful beaches, including Fort De Soto Park and Pass-A-Grille Beach.
This part of Florida is also popular thanks to the world-renowned Salvador Dali Museum.
In case it’s not your cup of tea, you can still enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Sunken Gardens!
I also have three more suggestions for your Florida bucket list that you will find along the way.
Hopefully you’ll enjoy them as much as us!
Tarpon Springs is a great place to stop and explore.
You can take a boat tour of the sponge docks. Or… and this will sound incredible, you can enjoy an authentic Greek meal.
Try it and you’ll be surprised by how good it tastes!
Bradenton is also a lovely town with some of the Sunshine State’s best beaches.
Note down that you’ll have to explore the Riverwalk and visit the South Florida Museum for some interesting discoveries.
If you still have time, add Sarasota to your itinerary.
We loved the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, but if you’re an art enthusiast you will also have a blast at the Ringling Museum of Art!
What if you want to stop overnight?
In case you want to spend the night along the way, I have 3 options you should consider.
For every pocket!
1. The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club ( St. Petersburg) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. Holiday Inn St. Petersburg West (St. Petersburg) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Motel 6 (St. Petersburg) – Check the updated rates on: Expedia
Big Bend Scenic Highway (US Hwy 98)
The US 98 Highway is one of Florida’s most scenic road trips.
It will take you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the state.
The route stretches for over 200 miles (321 km) along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Taking around 5 hours to complete, depending on traffic.
Hence why I strongly suggest you consider staying overnight (or more).
Do not rush it because you’ll regret it!
This trip is a great idea if you want to discover the natural beauty of Florida, from its pristine beaches to its rolling hills and forests.
According to our experience there are a few stops that you just can’t miss.
Pensacola Beach is an amazing beach town.
Known for its powdery white sand and emerald waters.
Because you can swim, sunbathe and enjoy a ton of water sports, it’s super popular as a spring break destination.
Just so you know, Aldo absolutely loves Pensacola Beach and Panama City Beach!
Those looking for charming small towns which boast amazing beaches should stop in Destin.
This place is world-famous thanks to its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches!
At Destin you can also go for a hike at Henderson Beach State Park.
You’ll find lovely picnic areas along the nature trails, so it’s a good place to stop for lunch,
Destin is also a family-friendly destination in Florida, thanks to attractions like the Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park.
The kids will love the water slides, pools, and of course the mini-golf!
Crystal River is yet another charming town in Florida. Known for its springs and wildlife.
This is where you go when you want to see manatees and dolphins.
There are a ton of tours of the springs or to snorkel with the manatees.
Yet please make sure you choose only ethical tours so you won’t disturb them!
Another bucket list stop along the Big Bend Scenic Highway is Apalachicola.
This historic town is super romantic. Perfect if you’re planning a couple trip to Florida!
You can enjoy some amazing seafood, as well as the many museums and art galleries.
If you’re up for it, you can add a sunset boat tour to your itinerary.
If you decided to spend a couple of days in the area, I would suggest you also visit the Florida Caverns State Park.
It’s located along the US 90, a short drive from the US 98 Highway.
The park is something you’d see in places like the road to Hana in Maui or Oahu.
Imagine hundreds of stalactites, stalagmites and rock formations inside a limestone cavern.
That’s something I really didn’t expect from Florida!
There are guided tours through the caverns you can take to learn about their history and geology.
Make sure you book one with a guide because it’s much more interesting!
What if you want to stop overnight?
Because there is so much to see and do, I suggest you spend one or two nights in the area.
So you won’t have to rush this trip. It’d be a shame!
Here are my top 3 options:
1. Henderson Beach Resort (Destin) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. Emerald Beach Resort (Panama City Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Diver Down Cottage (Carrabelle) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com
Amelia Island to St. Augustine
The road from Amelia Island to St. Augustine in northern Florida covers a distance of approximately 45 miles (72 km).
The drive is short but packed with amazing things to see and do.
Consider one hour and half to get from point A to point B.
Not only because of the usual traffic.
You might want to stay longer, considering how much you’ll get to see!
Views of the Atlantic Ocean and all historic landmarks along the way will need some time.
Make sure you always have your camera with you.
I got to shoot some amazing pictures also while Al was driving!
This trip will showcase the best beach towns in Florida.
Like Fernandina Beach or Ponte Vedra Beach.
Offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history and culture.
Some of the best stops along the way include the Fort Clinch State Park in Fernandina Beach.
A historic fort that offers beautiful ocean views and nature trails for hiking and biking.
If you’re like us and love the gorgeous beaches in Florida, you should stop at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve.
When we were there there were so many bird watchers and photographers taking in the gorgeous views!
It was amazing and we ended up spending quite a few hours at the reserve.
Hence why we decided to stay the night.
We just felt comfy enough that we didn’t want to leave!
Other interesting attractions along the way include the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.
And of course the historic Castillo de San Marcos, a fort that dates back to the 17th century and is now a National Monument.
What if you want to stop overnight?
In case this short and epic Florida road trip is part of a longer itinerary, you might want to consider staying overnight.
So you won’t have to rush it!
Here are my fav places to spend the night:
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island (Fernandina Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville/Ponte Vedra (Ponte Vedra Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Days Inn by Wyndham St. Augustine West (St. Augustine) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Tallahassee to Pensacola Beach
The drive from Tallahassee to Pensacola Beach in Florida runs for 140 miles (225 km) and takes about 2.5/3 hours.
While it may not be as extensive as the Gulf Coast Road Trip, it still offers a scenic drive through the Florida Panhandle.
With plenty of things to see and do along the way.
Driving to Pensacola from Tallahassee is relatively easy.
Much of the time you’ll be on Interstate 10.
Yet we suggest you hit the coastal roads from Pensacola to Pensacola Beach and then Panama City Beach.
You’ll get to explore the area a bit and to take gorgeous pics of the Gulf of Mexico.
It’ll be short but worth the time, I promise!
The road trip will show you small towns like Quincy and Marianna.
As well as larger cities like Panama City.
Some of the best stops along the way include the Florida Caverns State Park.
And the Tallahassee Museum, a living history museum that features exhibits on local wildlife, history, and culture.
Once you reach Pensacola, you’ll have so many attractions to enjoy that you’ll want to stop at least one more night!
Aldo absolutely loved the National Naval Aviation Museum.
He’s a history buff and this place has a huge collection of aircraft and artifacts related to naval aviation.
We also got to explore historic downtown Pensacola.
It was a relaxing afternoon, in which we had fun shopping for Florida souvenirs, hopped into some art galleries.
And then we stopped for a romantic dinner at one of the restaurants in the area.
What if you want to stop overnight?
I’m definitely biased here because we love Pensacola and Pensacola Beach.
Yet I promise you will love spending at least one night in this part of the Sunshine State.
There’s something for everyone!
I have 3 suggestions, if you want to stay the night:
1. The Pearl Hotel (Rosemary Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. Hampton Inn & Suites Panama City Beach-Pier Park Area (Panama City Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Red Roof Inn Pensacola Fairgrounds (Pensacola) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Florida’s Space Coast
The Space Coast in Florida includes the best of the best of Central Florida.
I’m thinking of places like Cocoa Beach, Melbourne & the Beaches, Palm Bay, Port Canaveral, Titusville and Viera.
And that’s just one small part of this amazing road trip!
We have started this trip in Orlando.
The drive will stretch for 92 miles (148 km) along the Atlantic Ocean.
Yet if you are already in the area and you don’t have enough time, I have a useful tip for.
Drive from Cape Canaveral to Sebastian Inlet. It’ll be the most amazing 39 miles (62 km) ever.
Head over to the Florida A1A to Sebastian Inlet and boom!
It’ll be like nothing else in the world: we loved this part of the trip!
This part of the state offers gems like the Kennedy Space Center, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and, of course, the Sebastian Inlet State Park.
If I can be super honest with you, I wouldn’t reduce this to a half-day trip.
I know that we’re all often short in time. Yet the Kennedy Space Center alone deserves at least a couple of hours.
You’ll also want to walk around Cocoa Beach, where you can take pictures of the Kelly Slater Statue.
Yes, the surfing legend that was in Baywatch!
It’s located at the north end of Downtown Cocoa Beach, where the A1A splits.
In Cocoa Beach we also found some amazing kiosks on the beach where we had a quick budget lunch while enjoying the best ocean views.
There are so many, especially along the fishing pier!
What if you want to stop overnight?
The Space Coast in Florida deserves some love.
Whether you’re interested in learning about space history, exploring natural landscapes, or enjoying outdoor activities, consider spending 1 night here.
Here are my top 3 picks:
1. The Inn at Cocoa Beach (Cocoa Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Expedia
2. Courtyard by Marriott Cocoa Beach Cape Canaveral (Cocoa Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites (Cocoa Beach) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Fort Myers to Captiva Island
Another short but amazing road trip in southern Florida starts in Fort Myers and ends in Captiva Island.
While on paper it’s only a 32 miles (51 km) drive, that should take you one hour and half at the most, it’s packed with amazing things to see and do.
Fort Myers is a great starting point, because you can take the causeway across the Caloosahatchee River.
It’s a bridge that carries US Highway 41 (Cleveland Avenue) over the Caloosahatchee River.
Considered one of the major landmarks in the area, it has four lanes and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding area.
The causeway has toll booths at the entrance. So you will have to pay to cross it.
Along the way there’s a gorgeous place, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Sadly, this refuge that protects the largest mangrove ecosystem in the United States was hit by Hurricane Ian in 2022.
As I’m writing, the Refuge continues recovery efforts and is still mostly closed.
Some of the trails are slowly reopening.
I suggest you check out the official US Fish & Wildlife Service page to keep updated!
As you drive towards Captiva Island, you’ll get to discover Sanibel Island.
Once the two were a single island, but they were separated by a huge storm at Blind Pass.
They are now connected by San-Cap Road.
The good news is that you get to cross a lovely bridge at scenic Blind Pass!
At Sanibel you can relax at the world’s best shelling beaches, or you can walk around hand in hand while exploring charming shops and cute alleyways.
Make sure you visit the Sanibel Lighthouse!
It’s the perfect background for some photos.
Just in case you didn’t manage to hit all the Miami instagrammable spots and you need more.
Captiva Island is the last stop on this road trip.
Known for its gorgeous beaches, it’s super quiet and less crowded than Sanibel.
Once there you can also book a boat tour to see the dolphins that live in the area!
What if you want to stop overnight?
To be honest not spending the night here would be a waste.
Once you see how beautiful this part of Florida is, you’ll see what I mean!
If you want to stop overnight, I suggest you check out the following places:
1. The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village (Cape Coral) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. Ibis Home (Sanibel) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com
3. Best Western Fort Myers Waterfront (Fort Myers) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Florida Forgotten Coast
The forgotten coast is a stretch of the Florida Panhandle, which earned its name because it was left out of Florida tourism promotions for years.
It’s a largely untouched area of coastline that is said to start from St. Marks Lighthouse west to Cape San Blas Lighthouse.
You can plan a road trip of this part of the state from Mexico Beach to St. Marks.
Consider about 108 miles (173 km) and a 2-3 hours drive, if you’re in a hurry.
Yet allow me to suggest taking your time and enjoy the many attractions along the way!
As you drive along the coast, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.
And if it’s not enough, you’ll also get lush green forests and charming small towns.
The full package!
Hence why you should pack for Florida accordingly if you’re attempting a Forgotten Coast trip!
This region is home to several state parks, nature reserves, and wildlife refuges.
You’ll be able to hike, enjoy some relaxing bird watching or just get a tan in the great outdoors.
One of the best stops on the road trip is the historic town of Apalachicola.
Don’t just stop for oysters. The Victorian architecture is just about stunning.
Picture perfect, I’d say!
Another must-see on your bucket list should be St. George Island.
With miles and miles of pristine white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and a laid-back island vibe.
The island is also home to St. George Island State Park, where you can hike, go fishing, or relax on the beach.
The Forgotten Coast road trip is great if you want to explore the natural beauty and unique culture of this part of the US.
Consider this one of the best hidden gems in Florida: you’ll be surprised once you’re there!
What if you want to stop overnight?
Spending the night along Florida’s Forgotten Coast on a road trip is a great idea because it allows you to experience the laid-back charm and natural beauty of this unique area at a more leisurely pace.
Let me suggest 3 places you should check out:
1 . Best Western Apalach Inn (Apalachicola) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
2. Franklin Inn (Carrabelle) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
3. Mainstay Suites (Port Saint Joe) – Check the updated rates on: Booking.com | Expedia
Have you ever driven any of these beautiful scenic drives in Florida? Let us know all about your experience in the comment section below!
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Travelling Dany – Danila Caputo
Danila Caputo is a bilingual travel writer living in between Naples and the Amalfi Coast (Italy), graduating from the University of Naples Suor Orsola Benincasa in Foreign Languages and Literature. She travels and works with her husband Aldo, photographer and videographer. Their blog chronicles their adventures around the world, their love for the USA (where they have family), Italian/European culture and tips on how to be responsible travelers. You can find out more about their latest trips and their life on Youtube, Instagram and Facebook.