Distilling South Florida down to just a handful of favorites wasn’t easy. I’ve spent time on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and honestly—I love them both. I enjoy the buzz of the cities, but I also adore those tucked-away South Florida beach spots that take a little effort to reach. I can never get enough of Miami’s energy and color. But after a few days there, I’m more than ready to slow down in the Florida Keys and soak up some peace and sunshine.
How to Get to South Florida
- By Air: I usually fly into Miami International (MIA), Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL), or Key West International (EYW)—it really depends on where I’m headed and how much ground I want to cover.
- By Car: I-95 and US-1 are the main routes I use to connect between cities and down into the Keys. Driving the Overseas Highway (US-1 south of Miami) is one of the most scenic trips I’ve ever done—you’ll be glad you took the wheel.
- By Train: I’ve also taken the train in Florida, and it’s actually pretty great if you’re not in a rush. Brightline’s high-speed rail connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and even Orlando now. It’s a fun, relaxed way to travel.
If You’re in a Hurry, Here Are Some Great Resorts in South Florida
- For Beachfront Luxury: The Breakers (Palm Beach) is as luxurious as it gets—classic, elegant, and right on the water.
- For Urban Cool: EAST Miami in Brickell City Centre is where I go for rooftop bars and modern vibes in the heart of the city.
- For an Island Escape: The Marker Key West Harbor Resort in Old Town Key West is a favorite of mine for its pools, laid-back luxury, and marina views that just melt the stress away.
Best Things to Do in South Florida
Enjoy tropical displays at Naples Botanical Garden
As you probably already know, I'm a huge fan of gardens. And Florida gardens? Well, they just want you to linger forever! Naples Botanical Garden is my favorite space to experience plants native to the tropics.
You can't possibly see all 170 acres in one visit. So join a tour and let the experts lead the way!
The space is fully wheelchair accessible.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle.
Adult tickets are $27. Free for children under 17.
Where you'll find it: Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples, FL 34112, Phone: 239-643-7275
Relax on the sand at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
If your flight lands in Miami, don't miss seeing Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.
I liked the guided tour of the lighthouse which is the oldest of its kind in the region.
Visit daily from 8 am until sundown.
The cost is $8 per vehicle to enter. Keep in mind that even if you book your day pass online, you may not get a spot. So you have to get there early to find parking!
You can rent a bike for $10 an hour and explore the park at your own pace. You can follow the 1.5-mile-long paved bike path as well as unpaved service roads.
Where to find it: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, 1200 South Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, Phone: 305-361-5811
Take the kids to IMAG History & Science Center
On the Gulf coast, the Imaginarium Hands-On Museum and Aquarium is a fun place for kids.
I found it not too overwhelmingly large. For me, it had just the right amount of exhibits (around 60!). Nearly all were hands on so your kids can play and explore on vacation.
Your kids can see and touch sea life like small stingrays. There is an impressive fish tank, the Dino Dig fossil lab, and more.
Address: IMAG History & Science Center, 2000 Cranford Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33916, Phone: 239-243-0043
We stayed at Hampton Inn Fort Myers Downtown nearby which has affordable rooms that cost around $100.
Go on adventure at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
If you are up for an adventure, head to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in the Florida Keys.
The real draw lies under the surface of the ocean.
Go on a glass-bottom boat tour to look into reefs teeming with fish and other marine life.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are my favorite ways to go. My husband Chris is a certified diver but I prefer to snorkel.
Back on dry land, you are welcome to enjoy the park's beaches, trails, and picnic areas.
102601 Overseas Highway (MM 102.5), Key Largo, FL 33037, P.O. Box 1560, Phone: 305-451-6300
Watch a live show at Jungle Island
If you want to see lots of tropical animals and plants (and I mean lots!), head to Jungle Island in Miami.
You can have your photo taken with birds. Or primates.
Learn about the habitats of two-toed sloths. Or interact with adorable lemurs!
Admission is $39.95 ($27.85 for kids)
Where you'll find it: 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132, Phone: 305-400-7000
If you are traveling with kids, take them to play at Miami Children's Museum nearby ($26 admission).
Jump to a Spot...