State
Florida
Sunshine State magic from beaches to theme parks
Florida gets a bad rap sometimes. Sure, the headlines are wild and the summer heat is brutal. But here's what the critics miss: this state delivers experiences you can't find anywhere else in America. You've got 600 miles of coastline stretching from the sugar-white sands of the Panhandle to the coral reefs of the Keys. Orlando houses the world's most elaborate theme parks. Miami pulses with Latin energy and Art Deco glamour. The Everglades hide alligators and manatees in a river of grass unlike anywhere on Earth. And yes, you'll encounter some characters along the way — that's part of the charm. Florida doesn't apologize for being extra, and that's exactly why 130 million people visit every year.
Explore the Region
Subregions
6 destinations
Florida Itineraries
View all
Orlando Minimal: Romantic Discovery & Serenity
Week · $$$
Romantic Tropical Escape in the Florida Keys
Week · $$$
Orlando Minimalist Weekend: Nature, Flavors & Serenity
Weekend · $$$
Orlando Oasis: Nature, Flavors & Family Fun Weekend
Weekend · $$$
Miami's Ultimate Food & Wine Day: Market to Table
Weekend · $$$
Romantic Tropical Escape in Miami
Weekend · $$$
Miami Beach puts you in the heart of the action. South Beach's Art Deco district buzzes with rooftop bars and Cuban coffee shops, while Mid-Beach offers quieter luxury resorts. Expect to pay $300+ per night for oceanfront properties during peak season. Orlando's International Drive corridor keeps you close to Universal and Disney without the resort prices. Look for hotels near the Convention Center — you'll save $100 per night compared to on-property Disney resorts. The Florida Keys reward you with laid-back island vibes, but book early. Key Largo and Islamorada fill up fast, especially during lobster season. Sanibel Island on the Gulf Coast delivers the best shelling beaches in America, though hurricane damage in recent years means fewer accommodation options. St. Augustine combines history with beach access — stay in the historic district and walk to Castillo de San Marcos. Tampa's Hyde Park neighborhood gives you walkable dining and nightlife without the Miami prices.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1.Visit theme parks on weekdays when single-day tickets cost $20-40 less than weekends
- 2.Book hotels in Kissimmee or International Drive instead of Disney property to save $100+ per night
- 3.Buy groceries at Publix or Winn-Dixie for beach picnics — restaurant meals near beaches cost 2-3x normal prices
- 4.Many state parks charge only $4-8 per vehicle and offer better beaches than crowded public access points
- 5.Happy hour runs 3-6pm at most restaurants with half-price appetizers and $2-3 off drinks
- 6.Rent vacation homes for groups of 6+ instead of multiple hotel rooms — especially in beach areas
- 7.Free activities include South Beach people-watching, Wynwood Walls street art, and most state park hiking trails
- 8.Buy theme park tickets online in advance for 10-15% discounts, never at the gate
- 9.Avoid rental cars at Miami Airport — take Metrobus to downtown and rent there for half the price
- 10.Many hotels include resort fees ($25-45/night) not shown in initial booking price — factor this in
Travel Tips
- •Download offline maps before driving through the Everglades — cell service disappears for long stretches
- •Pack reef-safe sunscreen for Keys snorkeling — regular sunscreen is banned in many marine areas
- •Hurricane season runs June-November, but most storms miss Florida — don't let it stop you from visiting
- •Miami Beach parking meters run until midnight and on Sundays — always check the signs
- •Theme park crowds peak at 11am-3pm — arrive at rope drop or stay late for shorter lines
- •Bring cash for parking at many beaches and state parks — credit cards aren't always accepted
- •Florida driver's licenses get you resident discounts at many attractions and state parks
- •Book restaurant reservations 30-60 days ahead during peak season (December-April)
- •Mosquitoes are brutal May-October — bring DEET-based repellent, especially for Everglades visits
- •Many beaches have paid parking only — arrive early or expect to pay $10-25 per day
- •Rip currents are common on Atlantic beaches — swim near lifeguards and check daily conditions
- •Air conditioning runs constantly — bring layers for over-cooled restaurants and attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
November through April offers the best weather with highs in the 70s-80s and low humidity. December through March are peak tourist months with higher prices and crowds. May and October provide sweet spots with good weather and fewer crowds.
Explore Florida
Ready to explore Florida?
Get a personalized itinerary in seconds with Takeoff.
Free on iOS. No credit card required.