Most Amazing Florida Road Trips to Take in Sunshine State

The American writer and novelist, Tim Dorsey once said, “Florida, no appointments and a full tank of gas.” This is what he meant when asked about Florida road trips. Airboat rides into the swamps, attractions, hidden springs, countless astounding beaches, mouthwatering foods, and numerous historic sites – you only require a flexible mode of transportation, and renting a car for your small family is the hands-down way to experience this diverse state.

Road trips are the best ways to not just explore the off-the-beaten-paths but discover life across different places. The United States of America has got a hundred and thousand miles of amazing roads that bring you some of the breathtaking scenes. Florida in North America is probably one of the most sought-after destinations that give adventure enthusiasts an adrenaline rush. To make your Florida road trips memorable, book Florida vacation rentals in advance and extend your stay as per your needs.

Awesome Florida Road Trips That Every Adventure Enthusiast Should Consider Taking

Those who think the Sunshine State attracts travelers to its pristine beaches and theme parks must not forget the Daytona 500, forest roads, and coastal roads. Some of the most amazing Florida road trips that can best be enjoyed from the comforts of vacation rentals are -

• A1A Florida State Road:

The scenic highway of north-south Florida State Road along the mighty Atlantic Ocean bequeaths travelers some of the most incredible views of the Sunshine State. The highway, from Key West to Fernandina Beach, is made up of three (3) individual state highways, picturesque and historic A1A Ocean Shore, A1A, and A1A River and Sea Trail. Drive along the Atlantic and be blessed with the breathtaking views of the emerald blue waters.

What to See & Do on Road?

Start the road trip from Ponte Vedra Beach. The beautiful beach town is magnificently blessed with gorgeous beaches, Oceanside swanky resorts, world-class tennis and golf courses, private retreats, and dazzling nightlife. Head south for half an hour on S.R. A1A to St. Augustine, you will be engrossed with the stunning views of parks, cafes, art galleries, and museums. Continue your journey as the Sunshine State bestows you miles of immaculate coastlines, majestic moss-draped live oak canopies, and sand dunes blanked with seas oats and wildflowers.

• Florida Keys:

How can you resist yourself from visiting the Florida Keys when Florida? The Florida Keys archipelago is bustling with immaculate beaches, stunning coastal roads, and plenty of nature. Staying at the Florida Keys vacation rentals, it is easier to explore places like Key West, Islamorada, and Key Largo. Get on the Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys and you can expect all things including down-home cuisine, natural beauty, kitschy roadside attractions, and spectacular wildlife. This road trip comprising 113-mile that takes about 3.30 hours without stopping.

Quick Facts about Overseas Highway -

1. The highway is 113 miles in length – joining Key West with the mainland of Florida.
2. Driving directly to Key West from Key Largo (100 miles) will only take approximately 2.5 hours.
3. Before the existence of the Overseas Highway, the Keys were connected by the Overseas Railway.
4. Hop from Key to Key (as the islands are also called ‘keys’), dine at the best seafood restaurants, shopping, go snorkeling, and incredible views.

• Miami to Key West:

Yes, we are talking about the epic road trip from Miami to the island city of Key West. Driving down through the awe-inspiring Florida Keys from the effervescent Miami to Key West is undoubtedly a classic American road trip. If you are taking the trip from Key West, it will ultimately culminate in Miami. Drive along County Road 905 to enjoy a subtropical tour through the mangroves. You may like to take a pause at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for some water-related activities.

Unmissable On-Road Fun to Key West -

You will miss out on many things (you will be at a total loss) if you don’t stop in-between and cover the drive at one go. Each island along the way has something to offer, which further sets the tone for your journey into the wonderful Key West.

1. Explore Key Largo (the longest in the island chain and very first island stop).
2. Take the comfortable and large glass bottom boats to the underwater preserve at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
3. Also, explore Key Largo’s outer islands.
4. Spend some time on the beach.
5. Eat at a classic eatery and enjoy a classic mojito drink at the Sundowners.

The island is located 90 miles north of Cuba.

• Pensacola to Panama City Beach

The Florida Panhandle is teeming with awe-inspiring natural beautiful well complimented by unspoiled natural beauty combining alluring white sand beaches, quiet barrier islands, and emerald waters. To explore them fully, kick-off your journey from Pensacola as you get on the 30-kilometer ride on State Road 399 through Gulf Islands National Seashore. Then head on to High 98 through Fort Walton Beach and Destin. You may like to spend some quality time in Destin fishing, shopping, and eating. Make your way to Highway 30A to Grayton Beach State Park. Then you reach Panama City Beach.

• Tallahassee:

The epitome of genuine Southern hospitality, Tallahassee makes the entry point for visitors to Florida. Tallahassee boasts an array of stunning museums, dining options, plantation homes, and a vibrant nightlife. Places like DeFuniak Springs, Apalachicola, Marianna, St. George Island State Park, Panama City, Seaside, Torreya State Park, Seacrest Wolf Preserve, and St, Augustine make outstanding day-trips from Tallahassee.

Coolest Things to Do in Tallahassee from Florida Vacation Rentals –

Whether you wish to take a trip back in time at the historic Goodwood Museum and Gardens, enjoy live music at the Bradfordville Blues Club, or spend an afternoon at the Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science, reaching out all important places in the city from Tallahassee vacation rentals is quite convenient and hassle-free.

5 Breathtaking Beach Destinations That Are Worth the Drive

What historic monuments and museums are for Rome, the beaches are for Florida. And this statement is very much true for beach lovers who wish to spend the entire day frolicking in the sand, gazing at people, or sampling their favorite drinks right on the crystal clear water.

Besides the big city beaches that are massively thronged by families, adults, kids, and celebrities, the state has numerous gorgeous beaches nicely tucked away in the isolated areas that can only be accessed by boat and cruise. Let’s take a quick look at some of the most important Florida beaches that are worth the drive.

1. Clearwater Beach: A short drive from Clearwater Beach vacation rentals is located the pristine Clearwater Beach. Visitors staying in Tampa vacation rentals can also reach the beach within less than an hour. Owing to its clear waters and a 2.5-mile stretch of immaculate sand, Clearwater Beach has frequently been ranked amongst the most popular beaches of Florida.

Activities to Do in Clearwater Beach –

There is no dearth of an astounding range of activities for water sports lovers such as jet skiing, parasailing, dolphin spotting, etc. For party animals, there couldn’t be a better place than Clearwater Beach. Pier 60 is an ideal place for families and lovebirds to spend some quality time. The Pier has a playground, musical acts, and street performers.

2. New Smyrna Beach: Shop in the stunning boutiques scattered across the quirky downtown area, soak up the sun on the beach, explore intriguing historical sites, and immerse in the vibrant art scene. Lying on the Atlantic Coast of Florida, New Smyrna Beach makes a perfect escape from the overdeveloped beach towns. Search Florida Rentals has made it simpler and easier for travelers to get to the New Smyrna Beach. SFR has a great selection of New Smyrna Beach vacation rentals.

3. Naples Beach: Drive to Naples Beach to discover a quieter and peaceful area to unwind and relax in the natural surroundings. The beach is magnificently maintained and unspoiled. The waters of Naples Beach are ideal for swimming.

Activities to Do in Naples Beach –

At the north end of the beach is the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park that entices activity lovers for a memorable day. Besides beachcombing, road trippers can get indulged in bird watching, spot exotic wildlife including manatees and sea turtles, scuba diving, kayaking, and snorkeling.

4. South Beach: Miami’s South Beach is a perennial hotspot for movie stars and celebrities. The beach has been immortalized in many TV series, songs, and movies. The gorgeous waters, soft sand, and a wealth of bars and restaurants make it an ideal spot to visit and mark a day. As the sun goes down, the party animals become alive for all-night carnival.

Where to Eat in South Beach?

Although Miami vacation rentals do come equipped with modern kitchens, it is almost impossible to refrain from the best restaurants that even locals adore. It is true in South Beach that eating your way through the best eateries can take some trial and error. Away from Ocean Drive, road trippers are going to find themselves in the quirkiest places to eat. Stubborn Seed (American Creative), Joe’s Stone Crab (American), Upland Miami (American), Lucali (Pizza), Planta (Vegan), Pubbelly Noodle Bar (Contemporary American), Red, the Steakhouse (Steakhouse), and The Bazaar by Jose Andres (Latin American).

5. Siesta Beach: The unspoiled and unexplored sand of Siesta Beach is the main highlight, ultimately transforming this quiet beach into one of the most attractive Florida beaches.

Top Activities to Do near Siesta Beach

Water sports like swimming and paddling are pretty ideal here because of Siesta Beach’s shallow water. Novice swimmers and paddlers are seen flocking in great number. Amongst other prominent things to do near your Siesta Key home rentals are Parasail Siesta, Sarasota Wind and Water Adventures, Kokomo Charters, Siesta Key Bike and Kayak, Siesta Key Jet Ski, and many more.

Road Trips Outdoor Activities