Distilling South Florida down to just a handful of things wasn't an easy task. I enjoy visiting both the Atlantic and Gulf coast. I like bustling cities. And I adore secluded South Florida beach spots that take some work getting to. Here are my favorites. I can't get enough of Miami. But after a few days there, I'm happy to escape to the Florida Keys for some relaxation.
How to Get to South Florida
- By Air: Fly to Miami International (MIA), Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL), or Key West International (EYW), depending on what you decide to see and do.
- By Car: I-95 and US-1 are key routes connecting cities and the Keys. The Overseas Highway (US-1 south of Miami) is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. so you'll be glad you went!
- By Train: Train travel in Florida is actually pretty cool! If you are not on a tight schedule, I recommend that you try it. Brightline high-speed rail connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando.
If you are in a hurry, here are some great resorts in South Florida
- For beachfront luxury: The Breakers (Palm Beach) is as luxury as it gets.
- For Urban Cool: EAST Miami in Brickell City Centre with rooftop bars.
- For an Island Escape: The Marker Key West Harbor Resort in Old Town Key West with pools and marina views.
Best Things to Do in South Florida
1. Enjoy tropical displays at Naples Botanical Garden
Rating: ★★★★★
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
2. 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
3. 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.
4. 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
5. 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).
Plan Your Trip