Best Day Trips in South Florida
Ready to unplug from the daily routine and take a day trip from the city? Well, you are in the right place! The sun-soaked stretch of South Florida is a world unto itself, where cities spill into lush wetlands, and turquoise waters meet white-sand beaches. Here are the incredible places I’ve come to love, and I hope you will too.
1. Palm Beach - 1 hour 20 minutes from Miami
This is one of the most beautiful and romantic day-trip destinations in South Florida.
We started along Worth Avenue, where Mediterranean-style architecture, courtyards, and designer storefronts made even a simple stroll feel elegant and indulgent.
My favorite part was wandering through the hidden vias and garden courtyards, hand in hand, surrounded by bougainvillea and fountains that felt like secret escapes tucked away from the world.
The beach itself had a timeless charm—soft sand, turquoise water, and a calm that made us slow down and savor every moment together.
We stopped for lunch at a café nearby, sharing fresh seafood and citrusy flavors that tasted like sunshine and salt air, perfectly suited to the setting.
I loved browsing the boutiques and galleries, finding unique pieces, art, and little treasures that felt special enough to remember the day by.
A quiet highlight was walking past the historic estates and learning about Palm Beach’s old-world glamour, which added depth and character to the beauty around us.
As the afternoon faded, we lingered near the water, watching the light soften and the breeze cool, feeling completely unhurried.
What I loved best:
Walking along Worth Avenue as the golden hour settled in was my favorite moment. I thought Palm Beach was absolutely enchanting! I was swept away by its blend of pristine golden beaches, turquoise waters, lush tropical gardens, and its mix of refined elegance with laid-back coastal charm. The island feels both glamorous and relaxed, with grand Mediterranean-style estates, luxury boutiques, and quaint cafes nestled along palm-lined streets.
Just an hour and 15 minutes from Miami, it’s located on a barrier island along Florida’s Atlantic Coast, just across the Intracoastal Waterway from West Palm Beach and around 70 miles north of Miami. With a population of around 9,000 residents, Palm Beach combines resort-style luxury with small-town intimacy.
I spent a sun-soaked day here exploring its highlights. I strolled along Worth Avenue (often called the “Rodeo Drive of the East Coast”), admired the European-inspired architecture of the 5-star Breakers hotel (we spent three days here on our four week Florida road trip), and relaxed on the silky sands of Midtown Beach. I also toured the Flagler Museum (the Gilded Age mansion of Henry Flagler), walked through the tropical beauty of Pan’s Garden, and paused for coffee at Via Roma Cafe.
One thing to note, Palm Beach carried higher prices across the board, lodging, meals, even parking. You should plan your budget ahead so you can enjoy the best of it without stress.
My highlight was dining at Buccan on Palm Beach for small plates full of flavor. I ordered the short rib empanadas—crispy on the outside, savory and tender within—and the smoky aroma made the whole meal linger in memory. Sitting in the airy dining room, I felt the lively energy that defines Palm Beach dining.
2. Coral Springs - 1 hour from Miami
We decided to do one of the best day trips in South Florida and headed just north of Fort Lauderdale.
First thing we did in Coral Springs was grab coffee and breakfast at a local cafe near downtown Coral Springs, and it honestly set the tone for such a joyful, relaxing experience.
After that we drove a few minutes to Tall Cypress Natural Area, which is one of the most amazing hidden nature spots near the Everglades and felt like a dream escape.
Walking along the boardwalks through the wetlands was such a cool and peaceful experience, and we even spotted turtles which felt like Florida magic.
Next on our weekend getaway was the Coral Springs Museum of Art, located right in the city center, and it was surprisingly vibrant and interesting.
The exhibits felt unique and unusual for a smaller city, and this was easily one of my favorite stops and a brilliant idea for families or couples.
By lunchtime we were starving so we found an affordable local restaurant nearby, and the food was honestly spectacular and one of the best meals we’ve had recently.
After eating, we spent time strolling around the parks and fountains near City Hall, which made the whole day feel romantic and calm.
Later we did some shopping at Coral Square Mall, which is close by and perfect if you want a mix of air conditioning and fun browsing.
My personal highlight was the Coral Springs Covered Bridge, a rare and charming landmark in Florida I really admired.
3. Sanibel Island - 1 hours from Miami
This ended up being one of the best day trips in South Florida, and honestly an underrated gem near Fort Myers that felt like pure magic.
We started the morning early driving over the Sanibel Causeway, and that first view of the water already felt like the beginning of an amazing weekend getaway.
Our first stop was Bowman’s Beach, which was quiet, peaceful, and easily one of the most beautiful and hidden beaches I’ve experienced.
Shelling here was a dream, and it was exciting finding unusual shells everywhere.
After the beach, we headed into town for breakfast, and it felt affordable yet special, which made it a brilliant idea for a family or romantic escape.
Next we explored the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which was an absolute best experience and honestly my favorite part of the day.
We saw birds, alligators, and lush mangroves, and the whole drive-through refuge felt like a cool and interesting nature adventure.
By midday we rented bikes, which was the best way to explore the island, riding past palm trees and charming streets.
Lunch was seafood near the marina, fresh and delicious, one of those simple but joyful moments that make trips memorable.
Later we wandered small shops and cafes, and the island vibe felt relaxed, vibrant, and totally different from mainland Florida.
Before leaving, we watched the sunset by the lighthouse, which felt spectacular and a little emotional in the best way.
Simple, casual pizza lunch at Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant was a personal highlight.
4. Fort Lauderdale - 50 minutes from Miami
Ready for a sun-soaked escape? Check out Fort Lauderdale, a true coastal standout! This South Florida city gave us a perfect mix of beachy relaxation, vibrant culture, and easygoing romance that made it one of our favorite seaside getaways.
We started along the Riverwalk, strolling beside the New River as yachts drifted by and palm trees framed the skyline—it felt lively yet calm, like the city was inviting us to slow down.
One of our first highlights was hopping on the Water Taxi, which turned sightseeing into a breezy adventure and gave us a fun, insider view of Fort Lauderdale’s famous canals and waterfront homes.
Las Olas Boulevard quickly became a favorite, with its stylish boutiques, art galleries, and sidewalk cafés that made it impossible not to linger over coffee and people-watch.
Of course, we spent time at Fort Lauderdale Beach, where wide stretches of sand and turquoise water set the scene for long walks and relaxed afternoons under the sun.
Lunch at a waterfront restaurant felt especially romantic, with fresh seafood, ocean views, and that unmistakable vacation ease that makes time melt away.
Later, we escaped into Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a quiet green oasis just steps from the beach, perfect for wandering shaded trails and enjoying a bit of nature together.
As evening arrived, we returned downtown, where warm breezes, glowing lights, and live music created an energetic but intimate vibe that carried us late into the night.
What I loved best:
I loved walking the beach promenade at sunset—barefoot, unhurried, and side by side—watching the sky turn pink and gold while the city gently buzzed behind us.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
