Want to break free from the Miami buzz for a bit? I totally get it. You need a change of pace without a ton of travel. I’ve found some quick trips that are perfect for you. You can stretch out on quiet beaches, explore nature, or stumble on hidden gems that feel like a mini vacation. You’ll be surprised how far a short drive can take you.
Highlights:
Best Day Trips from Miami:
1. Bimini
If you’re looking for a quick island escape, you’ll love Bimini. It’s one of the Bahamas’ most beautiful island chains and it’s just 50 miles from Florida’s southern coast. You can get there easily by ferry, boat, or a short flight from Miami. I’ve done the trip and it’s quick and totally worth it.
Once you arrive, you’ll find two main islands and several surrounding cays that feel like pure paradise. I always recommend checking out Bimini Road—it’s an underwater rock formation that some say is linked to the lost city of Atlantis. Whether or not you believe the legend, I think you’ll find it fascinating.
You can spend your days snorkeling, diving, or even getting up close with bull sharks through the Bimini Bull Run cage experience. I haven’t tried that one yet, but if you’re feeling brave, it’s a one-of-a-kind adventure.
After a day on the water, I like to relax at one of the local restaurants. You’ll definitely want to try the conch salad—it’s a Bimini favorite. With fresh seafood, waterfront views, and great drink specials, I think you’ll feel like you’ve found a hidden gem that’s close to home but worlds away.
2. Blowing Rocks Preserve
If you want to escape into nature for a while, I think you’ll really enjoy Blowing Rocks Preserve. It was founded in 1969 when 73 acres on Jupiter Island were donated to the Nature Conservancy, and today, you can explore a mile of wild, protected Florida coastline that feels like stepping back in time.
You’ll get to see what south Florida looked like before development—sea oats, sea grapes, bay cedar, and beach sunflowers all growing along the dunes. I always find it peaceful to walk through the habitat, especially knowing that sea turtles like the green, loggerhead, and leatherback come here to nest.
If you’re into plants, I recommend stopping by the native plant demonstration garden—it’s a great way to learn while you explore. I love the boardwalk trails and the scenic overlooks too. You can take your time walking and snapping photos—it’s just one of those places where everything feels calm and unspoiled.
And if you want to cool off, you’re in luck. Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving are allowed during select hours. I haven’t tried diving here yet, but I’ve heard it’s beautiful underwater too. I think you’ll leave feeling refreshed and reconnected with nature.
Address: Blowing Rocks Preserve, 575 S Beach Rd, Hobe Sound, FL 33455, Phone: 561-744-6668
3. Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
If you’re in Fort Lauderdale and want to explore somewhere peaceful and full of history, I think you’ll love the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. I always feel like I’ve stepped into another time when I visit. The house was built in 1895 by Hugh Taylor Birch and named after the Bonnet Lily. He gave it as a wedding gift to his daughter and son-in-law, which I think makes it even more special.
You can take a guided tour of the home any time of year, and I really recommend it. You’ll get to walk through rooms filled with stories, art, and charm while learning how the Birch family used it as a winter escape until 1997. When they passed it on to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, it became a place that now celebrates creativity, nature, and the history of South Florida.
I like coming during their special events too—especially the Holiday Magic Festival of Trees in winter and their summer concert series. Whether you’re into history, gardens, or just looking for a quiet place to wander, I think Bonnet House has something you’ll really enjoy.
Address: Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, 900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, Phone: 954-563-5393
4. The Walt Disney World Resort
If you’re dreaming of a magical getaway, I think you’ll have the time of your life at The Walt Disney World Resort. You’ll find it in Orlando, and it’s massive—over 25,000 acres, which is actually more than twice the size of Manhattan. I still get excited every time I go, no matter how many times I’ve visited.
You can choose from four incredible theme parks. I always start with Magic Kingdom, where you’ll find classics like Pirates of the Caribbean and the futuristic world of Tomorrowland. If you’re into travel and culture, I think you’ll love Epcot. You can walk through different countries and try food and rides that make it feel like a trip around the world.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is where I go when I want a taste of vintage Hollywood. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the Golden Age of film. And if you’re looking for something wild, you should check out Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I always get a thrill on Expedition Everest, and the animal exhibits are amazing too.
When you’re ready to relax, you’ll have plenty of options—there are 27 Disney-operated resort hotels to choose from. I like browsing Disney Springs for shopping, food, and live entertainment. No matter what kind of trip you’re planning, I think Disney World has something for you.
5. Everglades National Park
If you’re ready to explore wild, untamed nature, I think you’ll be amazed by Everglades National Park. It protects over 1.5 million acres of South Florida wilderness, and I always feel like I’m stepping into a whole new world when I visit. You’ll see everything from pine flatwoods and sawgrass marshes to coastal mangroves—all home to incredible wildlife.
You might spot a Florida panther, a West Indian manatee, or even a leatherback turtle if you’re lucky. I’ve seen some unforgettable animals here, and I think you’ll love the quiet thrill of wildlife watching. The park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it draws over a million visitors a year—but somehow still feels peaceful and remote.
I recommend starting at the Shark Valley Visitor Center. You can climb to the top of the two-story observation deck and take in sweeping views of the park. If you’re into birding, you’ll want to explore sections of the Great Florida Birding Trail. I always keep my binoculars handy.
For something more adventurous, I suggest hopping on one of the eco-tours. You’ll get a closer look at the park’s famous alligators, crocodiles, and even the occasional shark. And if you stay past sunset, the dark sky zones—like Ten Thousand Islands and Flamingo—are perfect for stargazing. I always leave feeling reconnected to nature in the best way.
Romantic Day Trips from Miami:
6. Fort Lauderdale
If you’re looking for a coastal escape with style and sunshine, I think you’ll love Fort Lauderdale. You’ll find it’s one of the world’s top yachting destinations, and I always enjoy strolling along the beachfront Strip. You can shop at upscale boutiques, grab a drink at a sidewalk café, or just take in the ocean breeze near the luxury hotels.
I recommend checking out the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk. I love how peaceful it feels, even though you’re still right in the heart of the city. You’ll also find great spots in the Arts and Entertainment District—like the Fort Lauderdale Historical Center, the family-friendly Museum of Discovery and Science, and live shows at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. I’ve had some unforgettable evenings there.
For a fun and unique way to see the city, I suggest hopping on one of the 90-minute amphibious tours. You’ll cruise through hip Las Olas Boulevard and get a mix of local history, shopping, and dining. I always find something new to explore.
If you want a break from the city vibe, head over to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. It stretches across 180 acres, and I think you’ll love canoeing or walking the nature trails. It’s a great way to unwind and reconnect with nature—without leaving the beach behind.
7. Hobe Sound National Wildlife Preserve
If you’re craving a quiet, nature-filled escape, I think you’ll really enjoy Hobe Sound National Wildlife Preserve. You’ll find it on Jupiter Island, and I always feel like I’m stepping into something truly special when I visit. The preserve was established back in 1969, and it protects over 1,000 acres of stunning coastal habitat near the Indian River Lagoon.
You can explore two different sections of the preserve. I like wandering through the 735-acre Jupiter Island tract—it’s one of the best spots in the country for sea turtle nesting. If you visit during nesting season, you might get lucky and spot green sea turtles or loggerheads. I always find it magical.
The 300-acre mainland tract is home to rare sand pine scrub, and I think you’ll appreciate how peaceful and untouched it feels. It’s one of the last places in Florida where you can see this kind of environment.
Don’t miss the Hobe Sound Nature Center. I’ve learned a lot there from the exhibits and the environmental education programs—they have something for every age. You can also explore the 173-acre Reed Wilderness Seashore Sanctuary, which is a designated National Natural Landmark. I think you’ll love how quiet and beautiful it is.
8. Homestead
If you want a getaway with nature, history, and a little quirk, I think you’ll love Homestead. It’s just about half an hour south of Miami, but I always feel like I’ve entered a totally different world. You’ll find it nestled right between Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park, which makes it perfect for outdoor adventures.
If you’ve never been to Biscayne, I definitely recommend it. You can go swimming, scuba diving, or even try water skiing. I loved hopping on one of the glass-bottom boat tours—you get to see all kinds of marine life, including more than 20 endangered species. If you’re feeling adventurous, I think you’ll really enjoy camping on Elliott Key. It’s peaceful and beautiful out there.
You should also check out Coral Castle. I found it so fascinating—it’s a stone sculpture garden created by one man, Edward Leedskalnin, and people call it “America’s Stonehenge.” If you’re into plants or food, don’t skip Fruit and Spice Park. I wandered through 37 acres of rare fruits, nuts, and spices and tasted things I’d never even heard of before.
And if you’re in town during rodeo season, you’re in for a treat. The Homestead Championship Rodeo is a big event and it’s actually the southernmost annual rodeo in the U.S. I had a blast watching the action and soaking in the local charm. I think you will too.
Family Day Trips from Miami:
9. Islamorada
If you’re dreaming of a laid-back island escape with plenty of adventure, I think you’ll fall in love with Islamorada. It stretches across six stunning islands in the Florida Keys, not far from Everglades National Park and the Florida Strait. Every time I go, I feel like I’m stepping into the heart of the Keys.
You’ll hear people call it the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” and once you see the boats and the water, you’ll understand why. I’ve gone snorkeling and diving around the coral reefs here, and the colors and marine life are unforgettable. If you’re into water sports, you’ll have no shortage of things to try.
I also recommend spending some time at the Theater of the Sea. You can get up close with dolphins, and I think it’s one of the most memorable animal experiences in the Keys. If you’re curious about diving history, I really enjoyed the History of Diving Museum—it’s packed with cool equipment and stories.
Want to dig deeper into the region’s roots? I suggest checking out the Keys History and Discovery Center. It’s a great place to learn about the area’s indigenous people, early settlers, and the industries that shaped the islands.
For nature lovers, I think you’ll enjoy exploring Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park—it used to be a quarry and now it’s a quiet, fascinating place to hike. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park has beautiful forest trails, and if you like a little history with your scenery, Indian Key Historic State Park is full of archaeological charm. You can boat or kayak out to it, which makes it feel like your own secret island.
10. Jonathan Dickinson State Park
If you’re in the mood for a nature getaway with a little history mixed in, I think you’ll love Jonathan Dickinson State Park. It’s named after a Quaker merchant whose 17th-century shipwreck led to a dramatic journey that he recorded in a journal. I always find it fascinating to explore a place with such a rich story behind it.
You’ll find the park near Hobe Sound and Tequesta, and I think it’s one of the best spots in the area for kayaking and canoeing. I’ve paddled along the rivers that wind through the forest, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. If you’re not up for paddling, there’s still plenty to do—you can go hiking, biking, swimming, or fishing year-round.
I also recommend checking out the eight-mile equestrian trail if you’re into horseback riding. The trails are well-kept, and I’ve seen some beautiful views from the saddle.
For a relaxing way to see the park, you should hop aboard the Loxahatchee Queen pontoon boat tour. I loved cruising the river while learning about the wildlife—we spotted some native and even threatened species along the way.
Before you leave, stop by the Elsa Kimbell Environmental Education and Research Center. You’ll find hands-on exhibits and ranger-led programs that give you a deeper look into the ecosystems around you. I always walk away feeling a little more connected to the land and the history behind it.
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