There’s a lot more to the Sunshine State than sand and surf.
Read on for the rest of my recommendations to inspire your next Florida trip.
Pick any Key along the way and you’re guaranteed a tropical getaway with no need for a passport.
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There are pools and water sports like sailing, parasailing, and kayaking.
Crystal River
Crystal River is a sleepy,tucked-away destinationon Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The nearbyPlantation Resort on Crystal Riveroffers simple, no-frills waterfront accommodations spread across 232 acres on Kings Bay.
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you might even watch rocket launches.
To the north, quieter Winter Park is considered the Palm Beach of central Florida.
Eat breakfast atBriarpatchand dinner atHillstone Restaurant.
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There are also plenty of ways to get outside once you’ve left tourist-centric Orlando.
Miami and Fort Lauderdale
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No place in Florida sizzles quite like Miami.
It’s a global city with great eats, world-class hotels, and party venues.
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Across Biscayne Bay,Wynwood Wallshas street art and massive murals galore.
TheBrightlinehigh-speed train connects Miami to Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach.
Hop off the boat at Las Olas Boulevard for the city’s best shopping and dining.
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August is by far the best time to have an indulgent five-star experience.
The Palm Beaches
The Palm Beaches showcase the best of Florida.
How about meeting rehabilitating sea turtles at theLoggerhead Marinelife Center, or taking atwo-night cruise to the Bahamas?
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If you’re after a ritzy resort stay, Palm Beach and Boca Raton have you covered.
Across the bridge, West Palm Beach has a big-city feel without the headaches of traffic and congestion.
St. Augustine
As the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S.,St.
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Augustinehas had a lot of time to get things right.
Today, it’sa walkable townimbued with intrigue; whispers of the past swirl through every cobblestone alley.
When it comes to food and drink, tryMichael’s,The Floridian, orO.C.
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Finish the evening with a cocktail atIce Plantbefore heading to your hotel.
For a taste of old-world elegance,St.
Francis Inn built in 1791 is a homey bed-and-breakfast that captures the spirit of the city.
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It’s located right on St. George Street, St. Augustine’s main drag.
Rolling dunes and marshes add interest to the coastal scenery.
Another ofthe island’sattractions is the oldest lighthouse in Florida, standing 64 feet tall.
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Charming beachfront lodges and inns line Amelia Island, so visitors have their pick of endearing accommodations.
Nearby Clearwater Beach is a laid-backbeach townwith one of thebest beaches in Florida.
Visit during thePier 60 Sugar Sand Festivalto see monstrous sand sculptures.
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It’s a popular spring break spot known for its calm Gulf waters and white-sand beaches.
But beach day alternatives abound: Visitors can hike, bike, or canoe inSt.
In Destin,Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Parkwill keep the whole family entertained.
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Cedar Key
A peaceful island city with pastel homes,Cedar Keyis a charmer.
