Are you a travel lover? Then explore the Best Places to Visit in Florida, the Sunshine State, a beach lover’s paradise. Florida Top Tourist Attractions For Lovers—From Girlfriends To Seniors, Even For Family Vacations. From its mind-blowing beaches to its vibrant cities, it calls to nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or the cultural outdoors, Florida has it all.
Imagine you are sitting on a sandy beach, sipping a refreshing cocktail, and basking in the warm Florida sun. Or you’re drawn to the excitement of theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, or SeaWorld. For nature lovers, Florida offers a variety of adventures, including Everglades National Park, the Florida Keys, and the Ocala National Forest.
So, I thought we’d take a virtual tour around the state and talk about some of the places in Florida that are popular vacation spots for locals. If you have a favorite that I missed and want to share, let me know in the comments—or if you don’t want to keep your secret to yourself. And if you want to know Best Beaches in Florida. So, go and get ready to spend some vacation time in Florida.
20 Best Places to Visit in Florida
Here are 20 places that Floridians love to visit while spending some vacation time in Florida.
1. Siesta Key
#Best places to visit in Florida
One of the things that makes Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches special is that Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota has some of the finest, whitest sand in Florida, if not the world. The sand on Siesta Key is 99% quartz, so it’s brilliantly white and it’s so soft to the touch that walking barefoot on this beach almost feels like you’re walking through powdered sugar.
It’s perfect for dipping your toes in and just as perfect for building the perfect sandcastle. It’s just beautiful. The sand is perfect, and it’s quite popular with both locals and tourists, but it’s not completely overwhelmed by things like Clearwater. That’s not to say it doesn’t get busy; it can definitely get crowded here on weekends.
So if you like to hang out at the beach, this is the place to go—walk around the beach, do some shore fishing, sunbathe, relax, and grab some seafood for lunch. There is some unique geology that lies beneath the sand on the coast. Burrows churn out millions of years worth of shark teeth. , and the waves kind of just bring them up and deposit them on the shore. Shark tooth hunting here is a lot of fun, and it’s very relaxing.
2. Clearwater Beach
#Best places to visit in Florida
It is located on the west side of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico. Clearwater Beach is noted for the color of its emerald waters. It is about an hour to both Tampa and St. Pete, making it easy to travel.
October, November, and December are still the best months to visit Clearwater when the temperatures are a bit cooler. Fortunately, these months have less humidity and fewer tourists. Pier 60 is a huge fishing pier that juts out into the bay, and truly spectacular is the view.
I give the “Most Activities” award to Clearwater Beach, as there is much to see and do, all the usual beach-town tourist activities such as dolphin-watching tours, fishing tours, jet ski rentals, and sunset cruises. Pirate Ship Cruises and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium are right here. It’s all there for you, but the traffic can get very bad, especially on weekends, holidays, and spring break.
3. Orlando
#Best places to visit in Florida
Orlando is known as the vacation capital of the United States, with millions of visitors flocking to it every year. The biggest tourist attraction is Disney with its five parks: Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and a water park called Typhoon Lagoon. Universal Studios has an additional water park called Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. SeaWorld Orlando, which has a dining area and an aquarium, is also available. The Sea World Shamu show is also a must-see. I recommend you stay in Orlando for a week!
4. Destin
#Best places to visit in Florida
Destin is often called the luckiest fishing village in the world. They say fall is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and get the best prices. It is also known for having some of the best beach sand in the world with emerald-colored sea water from the Gulf of Mexico. To live up to its name, it is recommended that you try some fishing from this harbor if that is your thing.
Destin is considered family-friendly with many restaurant selections. For those who want to enjoy a good time on the boardwalk as adults, it is also possible here. People also like to visit Crab Island, and when it comes to accommodation, a hotel at a beachside resort is a great option. You can also explore Destin’s sister city, Fort Walton Beach.
5. Fort Lauderdale
#Best places to visit in Florida
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which lies towards the southeast of the state, is famous for its beautiful beaches, fun nightlife, and numerous boating canals. The most popular nickname given to this city is ‘The Venice of America’ thanks to its beautiful shores, lined up with many restaurants and stores and other forms of entertainment. Tourists can head towards Las Olas Boulevard to experience some retail and restaurant activities or relax in the stunning Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. The FTLAUD also boasts various other entertainment forms, including galleries and museums. Due to the tropical weather, people engage in multiple activities, such as water sports and golf, among many others.
6. Marco Island
#Best places to visit in Florida
Naples on Marco Island is situated on a barrier island that is located off the Gulf coast of the United States. In fact, it is the largest island among the Ten Thousand Islands of Florida. Such allows for absolutely stunning views as well as luxurious amenities. It has beautiful white beaches for sunbathing, water sports facilities including kayaking, fishing, and wildlife in the Everglades nearby. The island includes high-end resorts, dining, and shopping, making it a family- and couples-friendly place. Marco Island, with its beautiful sunsets and calm setting, is an ideal place to go for both rest and fun. I’d say it’s a bit more relaxed here, aside from the fact that Naples is rather cosmopolitan. Read More
7. Everglades National Park
#Best places to visit in Florida
Located in Everglades National Park, Florida is one of the destinations for nature lovers and wildlife lovers. “As a nature lover, this park was everything I expected and more,” said a traveler named ‘Nolan James Brown.’ In fact, this is the real truth.
It serves as an important habitat for numerous endangered species, including the Florida panther and the American alligator. The Everglades’ complex waterways and rich biodiversity make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. You must check it out before you leave Florida.
8. Augustine
#Best places to visit in Florida
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest settlement in the continental United States that was founded by the Europeans. This quaint coastal town is characterized by its abundant history, lively Spanish colonial-style architecture, and scenic stone-paved streets. The prominent features include Castillo de San Marcos, a historic fortress, which is the oldest masonry castle in the US, and the lovely Flagler College, which is based in the building of a former high-end hotel. St. Augustine’s beaches are equally tempting and include St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park.
9. Naples
#Best places to visit in Florida
Naples, located along the Paradise Coast, is considered the jewel of Southwest Florida. It’s considered one of the best places to retire in the United States, and you’ll see why when you come here. In Naples, they also have these intertidal waterways where you can take your boat and park it in front of your house or wherever you live. They have an abundance of soft white sand and beautiful beaches. It also sits on the edge of the Everglades, so if you head a little further southeast, you’re right there in the Everglades.
10. Miami
#Best places to visit in Florida
Miami is a place that attracts many, and it’s located down in South Florida. Other than the obvious places to visit in Miami South Beach, other popular things to do in Miami are to hang out downtown, visit Coral Gables, check out the Wynwood Wall Sky and Museum and Gardens, a beautiful garden on the bay, Bayfront Park, Little Havana, and Tropical Botanical Garden. Sample some of their Cuban food across town—you’ll find quite a lot of good Cuban food here.
From the beaches to the water activities on Miami South Beach, then the vibrant nightlife—it just doesn’t get any better. After Vizcaya Museum, you can proceed to the Everglades and enjoy a tour. But indeed, Miami is very much the primo destination in South Florida.
11. Anna Maria Island
#Best places to visit in Florida
Annamarie Island is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast between Sarasota and St. Petersburg. This place has always been a favorite with locals looking for a place to escape for a few days, but it seems it’s become more popular than ever—the secret is out.
The beach here is great, and Annamaria Island is a fun place to explore by bike and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and exploring nature reserves, making it easy while you enjoy the city. You can relax and live like a local for a while. I really love this place.
12. Magic Kingdom Park
#Best places to visit in Florida
Florida’s Magic Kingdom Park, part of Walt Disney World Resort, is one of the world’s most iconic theme parks, known for its enchanting atmosphere and classic attractions. Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. What a magical day! Even the kid brings the spark into adulthood. I believe the adults had more fun than the kids or the event! And for kids, it’s the most magical experience in person! It’s something different. Literally unspoken words to meet your all-time favorite Disney characters from your childhood or modern day! And Disney characters are complimentary with greeting hugs, conversations, compliments, short stories, and even pictures! How can you ever forget such an experience—most definitely an unforgettable experience!
Must purchase tickets in advance and be fully prepared for the walk. Remember that it’s sunny most of the time; sunglasses, a cap, and even an umbrella are helpful.
13. Key West
#Top places to visit in Florida
In between Key West, you’ll have Key Largo and Isla Morada, but Key West is the real hot spot. If you go to the west end of the Keys, you have Duval Street in Key West, and that’s where a lot of the parties happen. You can get some key lime pie, some tacos, and oysters—lots of seafood, including conch. The Florida Keys are a Caribbean island chain, and Key West certainly lives up to that Caribbean island vibe.
Boat tours are popular here, including visits to the Dry Tortugas National Park. And if I haven’t mentioned it already, yes: seafood, seafood! Including oysters, which are very popular here. Key West is also famous for water sports including snorkeling, diving, and fishing, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers.
14. Panama City Beach
#Famous places to visit in Florida
Florida has a major area called Panama City, the main attraction of which is Panama City Beach. What makes this place special is its silica-white sand. The sand here is very soft, and the emerald waters create friendly, gentle waves here in the Gulf of Mexico. It is also known to have the largest sport fishing fleet in the country, so there is a lot of fishing activity going on here and there.
We walk up and down the beach; you can see the emerald water, which is very flat, and people are enjoying sunbathing on this beautiful beach. Panama City really has to be one of the top destinations in Florida, and it continues to climb the rankings. It is popular with college students on spring break, and families also come here on spring break.
15. Pensacola Beach
#Fun places to visit in Florida
Resting on Santa Rosa Island in Florida, the site of Pensacola Beach boasts of beautiful white sand beaches and emerald waters. This alluring site has many activities like swimming, fishing, and other water sports, making it suitable for families and thrill-seekers. Besides hiking the beautiful boardwalk, one can visit Fort Pickens, which is a historic site. There is also nightlife and eating out, which one can engage in. The place also has a yearly celebration among other happenings, such as the Pensacola Beach Air Show.
16. Sanibel Island
#Popular places to visit in Florida
Sanibel Island, which is situated off the southwestern coast of Florida, is well-known for its beautiful beaches, rich fauna, and a very exciting activity of shell collections. The natural beauty of the island is complemented by the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which is a treasure to nest in, and the center for the visitors is a very nice touch. Clean-up of most of the beach was achieved, and damages caused by the storm in erosion have been rehabilitated to some extent. Relaxed, Sanibel has amazing shops, art, including galleries, and good food that makes it a destination for both families and couples. There are also many activities like riding bicycles, kayaking, or fishing.
17. Honeymoon Island State Park
#Unique places to visit in Florida
Honeymoon Island State Park is a beauteous destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast, featuring stunning beaches, scenic nature trails, and diversified wildlife. Not as crowded as a public beach, since you pay a few dollars to enter the state park and from the main entrance of the beach. A bit of a walk, and there is only enough room on the beach for lines of people. Plenty of walking areas, and plenty of wildlife to see! Shallow water is a good way out. And there’s a nice covered seating area to sit at the cafe and listen to the waves lapping at the shore.
18. Big Cypress National Preserve
#Best places to visit in Florida
This is the venue for viewing alligators and other wild life in their natural environment. It boasts a complex ecosystem consisting of swamps, prairies, mangroves, and hardwood forests. The preserve is home to a large number of wildlife, including alligators, the endangered Florida panther, and several bird species. One can hike, camp, view animals, and take drives through the scenic areas here. It was great hiking the boardwalk through the cypress swamp.
19. Petersburg
#Best places to visit in Florida
St. Petersburg is located in the Tampa Bay metro area. Saint Petersburg has many beaches and parks. It is also known to be more affordable than other places in Florida, although this may change. If I had to choose between Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, I would choose St. Petersburg because it also has St. Petersburg Beach, which is comparable to Clearwater and is known as the Sunshine City. You can actually see along the waterfront here. This side actually faces the bay, and you can see people walking around this pier, which has restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere.
20. Palm Beach
#Best places to visit in Florida
Palm Beach, Florida, is a luxury island town known for its beaches. You’ve got West Palm Beach, where the town is, and then you have Main Palm Beach, which is where the beach actually is. It’s definitely not a beach for sunbathing! The water comes right up, and all the sand is damp. The waves here are pretty big, which is great. I really like this small beach. It wasn’t crowded at all, because it’s definitely not for lounging—although I got a nice tan. The water is beautiful, and the beach is clean. There was parking nearby. A beautiful, hidden little beach!
All the best on your trip to best places to visit in Florida. “Tale of Journey” is waiting for your valuable feedback to hear about your Florida travel experience. Oh yeah, and one more thing Subscribe to our free Newsletter to get more destination updates straight to your email.
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