Road trips in Florida are extremely popular. Why? We think traveling the state of Florida is like no other state. Here are some of the reasons why people love getting Florida road trip ideas:
- Diverse Landscapes: Florida offers a variety of scenic environments, from palm-lined beaches and crystal-clear springs to vibrant cities and unique ecosystems like the Everglades. Travelers can experience these diverse landscapes without long drives between them, making it easy to see a lot in a short time.
- Year-Round Warm Weather: Florida’s mild winter temperatures make it a popular road trip destination throughout the year, especially when colder states are experiencing winter. This consistent warmth is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and beach destinations at any time.
Springs like Manatee Springs on Route 98 near Steinhatchee make road trips in Florida the perfect getaway. - Unique and Iconic Destinations: Florida has an impressive mix of well-known attractions and hidden gems, from the bustling nightlife of Miami and family-friendly Orlando to charming small towns like St. Augustine and Cedar Key. The state’s range of famous and lesser-known stops makes it a fun adventure for all types of travelers.
- Extensive Coastal Routes: Florida’s long coastline allows for incredible oceanfront road trips along both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. Routes like the Overseas Highway to Key West and A1A provide some of the most scenic coastal drives in the U.S., giving travelers easy access to beach hopping, fishing, and water sports.
- Outdoor Activities: Florida’s parks, springs, and waterways make it an ideal spot for eco-tourism and outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, wildlife spotting, and snorkeling. The diversity of outdoor options keeps nature enthusiasts coming back to explore more.
- Varied Cultural Experiences: From the Latin influence in Miami to the historic architecture in St. Augustine and Southern hospitality in small towns, Florida road trips offer a unique blend of cultures that makes each stop feel different and engaging.
This mix of scenery, activities, and easy-to-navigate routes has made Florida a top choice for road trip enthusiasts of all kinds.
Our 7 Best Road Trip Ideas in Florida
Over the last 40 years, we have taken hundreds of road trips throughout the Sunshine State. Here are our favorite drives in Florida we think are the best ideas for a Florida road trip:
The Overseas Highway (Miami to Key West)
- Why it’s one of the best: Iconic drive over turquoise waters with a laid-back island vibe. Stunning views and many things to do in the Florida Keys.
- What to See: A road trip in Florida from Miami to Key West along the Overseas Highway (US-1) is an unforgettable journey through the Florida Keys, where clear waters and vibrant island communities make for an enchanting drive. This 113-mile stretch, known as the “Highway That Goes to Sea,” connects dozens of islands via scenic bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge.
The Overseas Highway has many spectacular views including the Seven Mile Bridge.
Starting in Miami, the trip leads you into Key Largo, where John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park awaits with incredible opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring coral reefs.
As you continue south, each island offers something unique. Islamorada, known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” offers fishing charters, marine life encounters at the Theater of the Sea, and relaxed tiki bars perfect for a sunset stop.
Be sure to cross the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest segmental bridges in the world, which gives you stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Further along, south of Marathon, you’ll find Bahia Honda State Park, home to some of the Keys’ most beautiful beaches and clear waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Finally, you arrive in Key West, the southernmost city in the continental U.S., famous for its colorful architecture, lively nightlife, and historic charm. Explore Ernest Hemingway’s Home, the Southernmost Point marker, Mallory Square’s sunset celebrations, and vibrant Duval Street.
The drive itself, dotted with scenic pull-offs and waterfront dining, transforms the journey into an adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tropical beauty and laid-back spirit of the Keys.
- Route: Take US-1 South from Miami all the way to Key West. This route is known as the Overseas Highway.
- Directions: Start in Miami, head south on US-1, and drive through the Florida Keys. Plenty of signs and hard to get lost!
Continue traveling
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This article originally appeared here and was republished with permission.
