Craving an adventure without the commitment of an overnight stay? While exploring the Sunshine State, I discovered day trips to tropical beaches, crystal-clear springs, and colorful small towns—each one bursting with Florida’s signature blend of fun, nature, and laid-back vibes. "These Florida day trips are packed with sunshine, scenery, and local flavor—perfect for a spontaneous escape no matter where you are in the state."
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Florida Day Trips:
1. Jacksonville
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Location:
Jacksonville, FLHighlights:
Planning a family trip or craving some sunshine and outdoor fun? Jacksonville blends beaches, parks, and waterways for the perfect Florida adventure—without the usual crowds.Recommended For:
Families, nature lovers, beachgoers, and anyone who enjoys outdoor recreation with a coastal twist.What I Love: ♥
Its massive park system, quiet natural preserves, water activities galore, and the laid-back local vibe of “Jax.”- Visit Jacksonville in northeastern Florida, a rising star for family-friendly vacations and outdoor fun.
- Explore nature in the Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve and other parks offering hiking, biking, birding, and camping.
- Paddle through the Intracoastal Waterway or soak up the sun with swimming, surfing, fishing, and boating at Jacksonville’s wide, welcoming beaches.
Distance from Orlando:
Around 2 hours and 15 minutes northeast by car—an easy drive for a weekend getaway.How to Get to Jacksonville:
Take I-95 North if you're coming from central or southern Florida, or fly directly into Jacksonville International Airport (JAX).Affordable Tours in Jacksonville, Florida:
- The Avondale Tour (Jacksonville) – Discover area history and great food. Price: From $135 per person.
- Jacksonville: 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour – Enjoy a sweet, affordable adventure. Price: From $9 per person.
2. St. George Island
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Location:
St. George Island, FLHighlights:
If you're dreaming of sugar-white sand and uncrowded Gulf Coast beaches, St. George Island is calling. It's laid-back, stunning, and one of Florida’s best-kept secrets for a coastal escape.Recommended For:
Beach lovers, families, pet owners, shell collectors, and anglers looking for solitude and sunshine.What I Love: ♥
Award-winning beaches, crystal-clear Apalachicola Bay views, fishing spots galore, and pet-friendly sands for your furry travel companions.- Relax on over 28 miles of serene beachfront, just under two hours from Tallahassee via the scenic Big Bend Scenic Byway and Bryant Patton Bridge. St. George Island is the perfect off-the-radar retreat.
- Swim, fish, and sunbathe at beaches consistently ranked among the best in the U.S., with sweeping views over Apalachicola Bay.
- Bring your pup to the pet-friendly beaches—just skip the nine-mile stretch at Julian G. Bruce State Park, though their boardwalk is dog-welcoming!
- Fish at premier spots like the East End Fishing Beach (permit required) and Unit Four Beach, known for tide pools and birdwatching—look out for diving kingfishers!
Distance from Tallahassee:
About 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to St. George Island:
From Tallahassee, follow US-319 South to US-98 East, then take the Big Bend Scenic Byway to Eastpoint and cross the Bryant Patton Bridge onto the island.3. Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach
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Location:
Amelia Island, FLHighlights:
If you're after uncrowded beaches, charming downtown streets, and a touch of luxury, Amelia Island is a dream come true. It’s one of those places that’s just as perfect for a romantic escape as it is for a laid-back family trip.Recommended For:
Couples, beachgoers, spa lovers, golfers, foodies, and anyone looking for a coastal Florida getaway with elegance and history.What I Love: ♥
Thirteen miles of shoreline, vibrant downtown Fernandina Beach, top-tier spas and golf, and the friendly, peaceful vibe.- Relax on Amelia Island, located along Florida’s northeastern coast, where pristine waters, wildlife, and white-sand beaches welcome visitors year-round.
- Visit Fernandina Beach, one of the island’s most popular spots, known for golfing and the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival.
- Stroll through downtown Fernandina Beach, where world-class spas, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants create the perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.
Distance from Jacksonville:
Around 45 minutes northeast by car, making it a super convenient coastal escape.How to Get to Amelia Island:
From Jacksonville, take I-95 North to Exit 373, then follow A1A East all the way to the island.4. Big Cypress Reservation
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Location:
Big Cypress Reservation, near Clewiston, FLHighlights:
Want to truly get off the beaten path? Head to Big Cypress Reservation—this remote, culturally rich destination gives you an unforgettable peek into Florida’s Indigenous history and wild side.Recommended For:
Culture seekers, wildlife lovers, families, history buffs, and adventurers looking for a unique experience in the Everglades region.What I Love: ♥
Learning about Seminole heritage, zooming through swampland on an airboat, and the chance to camp in the wild under the stars.- Explore the Big Cypress Reservation, located about 45 minutes south of Clewiston, and the largest reservation of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
- Experience 82 acres of remote, sacred land where you can learn about Seminole culture and history.
- Ride swamp buggies and airboats through Billie Swamp Safari, the reservation’s top attraction—complete with wildlife tours and adventure camping.
Distance from Fort Lauderdale:
Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes west by car.How to Get to Big Cypress Reservation:
From Fort Lauderdale, take I-595 West to US-27 North, then follow signs to Josie Billie Highway. The route is scenic and leads deep into Seminole country.Address:
Josie Billie Hwy, Clewiston, FL 334405. Anna Maria Island
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Location:
Anna Maria Island, FLHighlights:
Looking for that picture-perfect beach getaway with zero high-rises and all the charm? Anna Maria Island is your spot—think white sands, Gulf breezes, and sunset views from nearly every corner.Recommended For:
Couples, families, beachcombers, foodies, and anyone seeking a peaceful coastal escape with a laid-back, old Florida feel.What I Love: ♥
Walkable beaches, emerald-green waters, award-winning local restaurants, and a warm, small-town vibe with top-tier relaxation.- Visit Anna Maria Island to experience white-sand shores, emerald Gulf waters, and charming coastal communities that attract visitors from around the globe.
- Explore an island that’s only seven miles long and a few blocks wide, where sunset views and sea breezes are never far away.
- Enjoy pristine beaches, local boutiques, fine dining, outdoor fun, wildlife sightings, and live performances in a setting that feels a world away.
Distance from Tampa:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes south by car—perfect for a weekend escape.How to Get to Anna Maria Island:
Take I-275 South to US-19, then cross the scenic Sunshine Skyway Bridge and follow FL-64 West across to the island.Romantic Florida Day Trips:
6. Blue Spring State Park
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Location:
Orange City, FLHighlights:
If you’ve ever wanted to see manatees up close or swim in crystal-clear spring water, Blue Spring State Park is a must. It’s refreshing, wild, and packed with ways to enjoy Florida’s natural side.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, wildlife watchers, hikers, families, and anyone seeking an authentic Florida spring experience.What I Love: ♥
Warm 72-degree spring water year-round, a thriving manatee population, birdwatching, and relaxing kayak trips on the St. Johns River.- Visit Blue Spring State Park, known for its 72-degree spring water and its role as a winter refuge for manatees since its establishment in 1927.
- See abundant wildlife including manatees, wading birds, kingfishers, eagles, and ospreys that thrive along the St. Johns River.
- Enjoy a variety of activities like the 4.5-mile Pine Island Trail, river cruises, kayaking, and canoeing.
Distance from Orlando:
Around 45 minutes north by car—easy to visit for a half or full day.How to Get to Blue Spring State Park:
From Orlando, take I-4 West to Exit 114, then follow signs for Orange City and Blue Spring State Park.Address:
2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763Phone: 386-775-3663
7. Charlotte Harbor
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Location:
Charlotte Harbor, FLHighlights:
If you’re craving a breezy mix of boating, golf, and coastal charm, Charlotte Harbor might be your new favorite place. Nestled between Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, it’s an easygoing slice of Florida that’s big on beauty and fun.Recommended For:
Retirees, boaters, golfers, families, and anyone looking for a peaceful yet activity-filled waterfront getaway.What I Love: ♥
Miles of man-made and natural waterways, easy Gulf access, riverside scenery, and endless opportunities for recreation on land or sea.- Discover Charlotte Harbor, perfectly placed between Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte along Florida’s southwest coast.
- Explore over 165 miles of man-made canals and miles of natural shoreline on the Myakka and Peace Rivers, offering direct access to the Gulf.
- Enjoy activities like boating, yachting, tennis, swimming, and golfing, plus relaxing parks and shopping options throughout the area.
Distance from Fort Myers:
About 45 minutes north by car along I-75.How to Get to Charlotte Harbor:
From Fort Myers or Sarasota, take I-75 and exit at Kings Highway or US-41 South to reach Charlotte Harbor via Punta Gorda or Port Charlotte.8. Crystal River
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Location:
Crystal River, FLHighlights:
If you’re into crystal-clear water, gentle wildlife, and unforgettable nature experiences, Crystal River delivers. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can legally swim with manatees—and that’s just the start.Recommended For:
Wildlife lovers, eco-tourists, families, paddlers, and anyone eager to see manatees in their natural habitat.What I Love: ♥
Pristine springs, year-round manatee sightings, easy spring access downtown, and a rare wildlife refuge devoted to one incredible species.- Explore Crystal River, a town centered around Kings Bay and the Crystal River—both vital to local life and legendary for their clarity.
- Marvel at Florida manatees who gather here in winter, thanks to the area's first magnitude spring system that keeps waters warm and welcoming. Watch more here.
- Visit the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, the only refuge in the U.S. created specifically to protect a single species—the beloved Florida manatee.
- Swim or paddle at Hunter’s Springs Park, the city’s most accessible natural spring located just steps from downtown.
Distance from Tampa:
Around 1 hour and 30 minutes north by car—ideal for a refreshing day trip.How to Get to Crystal River:
Take US-98 North from Tampa, then merge onto US-19 North toward Crystal River. Follow signs into town and toward Kings Bay or Hunter’s Springs.Family Florida Day Trips:
9. Everglades National Park
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Location:
Homestead, FLHighlights:
If you want a wild, unforgettable Florida experience, Everglades is where it’s at. Airboats, alligators, and vast subtropical wetlands make it one of the most iconic day trips in the state.Recommended For:
Adventurers, nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and families seeking an exciting escape from the city.What I Love: ♥
The chance to glide through wetlands on an airboat, spot fierce Florida wildlife, and explore landscapes unlike anywhere else in the country.- Visit Everglades National Park, one of Florida’s most iconic natural treasures—second only to theme parks in fame but far richer in wild beauty.
- Explore the swampy grasslands on a thrilling airboat tour, where you might encounter alligators, birds, and turtles in their natural habitat.
- Experience a rare side of Florida few ever venture into, making it one of the most unique and raw day trip options the state offers.
- Preview the park’s wonders in this video before your visit!
Distance from Miami:
Around 1 hour southwest by car—an easy jump from the city into the wild.How to Get to Everglades National Park:
From Miami, take US-1 South to Florida City, then follow signs to the park entrance on State Road 9336.Address:
40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034Phone: 305-242-7700
10. Florida Aquarium, Florida
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Location:
Tampa, FLHighlights:
Looking for a fun and educational way to explore Florida’s natural wonders? The Florida Aquarium takes you from sea level to tree level with amazing wildlife, hands-on exhibits, and conservation stories worth sharing.Recommended For:
Families, animal lovers, science buffs, and anyone looking to dive into Florida’s aquatic and coastal habitats—without getting wet.What I Love: ♥
River otters playing, sharks cruising by, lemurs climbing through tree-top habitats, and the aquarium’s commitment to conservation and education.- Explore The Florida Aquarium, where you can journey from the ocean floor to rainforest canopies in a single visit.
- See incredible species like sea turtles, rays, river otters, sharks, and even lemurs in beautifully designed exhibits.
- Learn about Florida’s native wildlife and the interconnected ecosystems that make the state such a natural wonder.
- Support meaningful research, conservation, and education programs led by the aquarium team throughout the Tampa Bay area and beyond.
Distance from Orlando:
About 1 hour and 20 minutes west by car—perfect for a day trip.How to Get to The Florida Aquarium:
Take I-4 West into downtown Tampa and follow signs to Channelside Drive. The aquarium is located near the cruise terminals and port area.Address:
701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602Phone: 813-273-4000
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What are some fun-filled Florida destinations?
- Locals and visitors alike can escape the crowds of theme parks and head out to many of these fun-filled Florida destinations.
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What activities can visitors enjoy in Florida?
- Whether visitors prefer to relax on a beach, see unique wildlife, or go on an adventure into the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Florida.
Best Time for Day Trips in Florida:
- December to April – Dry season offers sunny skies and mild temps—perfect for beaches, nature parks, and historic towns.
- May to June – Warm and breezy with fewer crowds—great for springs, gardens, and scenic coastal drives.
- July to August – Hot and humid, but ideal for beach towns, water parks, and morning wildlife adventures.
- September to October – Quieter season with lush scenery, good travel deals, and early fall festivals.
- November – Mild and peaceful, perfect for exploring charming towns, cultural spots, and hidden coastal gems.
Plan Your Trip