Florida Getaway: Our Essential Discoveries
Planning a Florida getaway? From bustling cities to trendy beach resorts, pristine beaches to natural parks…
Planning a Florida getaway? From bustling cities to trendy beach resorts, pristine beaches to natural parks… We're taking you through the 8 must-see destinations to discover during your Florida trip to help you organize your itinerary!
1. Miami
It's impossible to imagine a Florida trip without visiting Miami. A city of luxury and excess, Miami seduces with its endless beaches and turquoise waters, its vibrant nightlife with legendary nightclubs, and its cultural richness. Don't miss the famous Art Deco district with its historic homes evoking the golden age of the 1930s, the Wynwood Walls and their street art masterpieces, or its numerous museums (History Miami Museum, Museum of Science, Pérez Art Museum…) and parks and gardens (Bayfront Park, Maximo Gomez Park, Vizcaya Gardens…).
2. The Everglades
Located near Miami, the Everglades National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. A true jewel of Florida's ecotourism, the park is home to mangroves, lagoons, salt marshes and swamps where countless wild animals live, including the famous alligators, American crocodiles, turtles, manatees and numerous birds. To discover this wild paradise spanning approximately 1.5 million hectares, several options await you: a boat excursion (speedboats or "airboats"), kayaking trips, or hiking and biking for the more adventurous!
3. Fort Lauderdale
For those looking to venture off the beaten path during a Florida trip, we recommend making a stop in Fort Lauderdale. Though undervisited by travelers, this city truly deserves your attention. Nicknamed the "Venice of America," Fort Lauderdale is characterized by numerous canals. Take a water taxi and let yourself drift through the pleasure channels, wander past luxury villas and soak in a peaceful atmosphere…
4. Orlando
The capital of theme parks, Orlando is the number one destination for families vacationing in Florida. The entertainment options are so numerous you won't know where to start. The most famous is Walt Disney World, but you'll also find Universal Studios divided into several distinct areas: one dedicated to film productions, another (Islands of Adventure) featuring characters from the greatest films of all time, and a mini-park themed around Harry Potter.
5. St. Augustine
Interested in visiting the oldest city in the Estados Unidos? Head to St. Augustine! Founded in 1565, this city is renowned for its Spanish colonial architecture. From that era, you can discover cobblestone streets and historic sites like the Castillo San Marcos, a stone fortress built in the 17th century, the Fountain of Youth and the Mediterranean-style Flagler College. Beyond its treasures of the past, you'll also find beautiful beaches, including St Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach.
6. Clearwater
Looking for a charming beach resort during your Florida stay? Stop in Clearwater. While its colorful harbor and entertainment will delight you, you'll most importantly discover one of the country's most beautiful beaches. With its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand, Clearwater Beach was named the best beach in the Estados Unidos in 2018 and 2019 by TripAdvisor. Stroll along the beachwalk, admire the sunset, enjoy water sports… Relax and unwind!
7. Fort Myers
Another must-see beach resort in Florida: Fort Myers. This little slice of paradise attracts numerous local and international visitors seeking to relax on its beaches and islands. It's the perfect place for a pleasure boat expedition through the islands including Sanibel, Captiva, Useppa, Estero, Pine Island… During your journey, you might be lucky enough to encounter dolphins and turtles! Note that the city is also home to historic monuments such as the winter residences of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
8. Key West and the Florida Keys Archipelago
End your Florida trip by soaking in the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere. To do this, head to Key West and its magnificent islands. Located at the southernmost tip of the Estados Unidos, it's a true concentration of sunshine, rocky beaches, coral reefs and palm trees waiting for you. To get there, take the stunning Overseas Highway, a road that crosses the Keys and offers exceptional panoramas. Beyond its natural beauty, Key West offers wonderful cultural surprises such as the luxurious mansions of Ernest Hemingway or John Audubon.
Frequently asked questions
The best time for a Florida getaway is between November and April, during the dry season. Temperatures are pleasant (68-82°F), rainfall is low and the risk of hurricanes is nonexistent. Avoid the period from June to November, which corresponds to hurricane season, with humid heat and frequent rain.
To visit the 8 essential Florida destinations (Miami, the Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, St. Augustine, Clearwater, Fort Myers and Key West), plan for an ideal stay of 14 to 21 days. This will allow you to enjoy each stop without rushing, especially for the Orlando parks (plan for 3 to 4 days minimum) and the Keys.
Yes, car rental is strongly recommended for visiting Florida. Public transportation is underdeveloped outside major cities like Miami. A car will give you the freedom to explore the Everglades, travel from Fort Myers to the Keys via the Overseas Highway, or stop in Fort Lauderdale and Clearwater at your own pace.
Yes, Key West is located about 155 miles from Miami, approximately 3.5 to 4 hours by car. The route takes the Overseas Highway (US-1), a scenic road that crosses the Florida Keys archipelago and offers spectacular ocean views. It's also possible to reach Key West by plane from Miami in about 30 minutes.
Visiting the Everglades is safe if you follow a few basic rules. Don't approach alligators and crocodiles, stay on marked trails and follow guide instructions during airboat or kayak excursions. Bring effective mosquito repellent, sunscreen and plenty of water, especially during summer months.
