Looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Tampa? I’ve taken so many day trips from the city, and every time I’ve ended up somewhere that felt like a breath of fresh air. From sugar-sand beaches to spring-fed parks and coastal towns with serious charm, I’ve found that Florida has a way of surprising you. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure where you get to step into a unique moment, beach lounging for relaxation, or a slow stroll through a cute downtown for a bit of shopping, there’s something perfect waiting for you just a short drive away.
Best Day Trips from Tampa:
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach shimmered like it had been dusted with sugar. The sand was so white it made the sky seem bluer, and the water rolled in with a calm that matched the gentle pace of the day. I walked the shoreline until my toes went numb from the cool surf, pausing only to watch dolphins trace the horizon. Everything felt suspended in light and warmth. I remember thinking, "This is what it feels like to exhale completely."
What I Loved Most: Floating in clear water under an orange sunset and wandering Pier 60 at golden hour.
Another highlight? The breezy brunch I had at Clear Sky Cafe. Just steps from the sand, the atmosphere felt vibrant but laid-back. I ordered their lobster benedict with a side of crispy potatoes. It was decadent, perfectly balanced, and full of coastal flavor. I wrapped it up with a mimosa and a warm blueberry muffin. Between the ocean breeze, the buzz of beachgoers, and the fresh, inventive menu—it was a perfect start to the day.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Tampa: ~45 minutes west
- Vibe: Sunny, laid-back, beachy
- Highlights: Pier 60, sugar-sand beaches, jet ski rentals, seafood shacks
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring or fall to avoid peak crowds
- Don’t Miss: Sunset celebration at Pier 60 with street performers
Jacksonville
Jacksonville surprised me. I expected a city, but found a coastline that whispered calm and neighborhoods laced with moss-draped oaks. The rhythm was slower, more grounded, and the salty air seemed to peel the weight off my shoulders. I sat near the St. Johns River and watched the light ripple like music. I remember thinking, "Sometimes the best places don’t ask for your attention—they just offer space."
What I Loved Most: Morning walks at Atlantic Beach and fresh shrimp tacos by the water in Riverside.
Another highlight? The coffee break I took at Bold Bean Coffee Roasters in Riverside. The space had a cool, artsy vibe—plenty of light and just enough buzz. I ordered a pour-over of their single-origin Ethiopian and a flaky cheddar chive scone. The coffee was smooth, bright, and aromatic, and that scone? Buttery perfection. Between the hip setting and the serious attention to quality, it was exactly the reset I needed.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Orlando: ~2 hours northeast
- Vibe: Coastal, local, relaxed
- Highlights: Atlantic Beach, Riverside Arts Market, Catty Shack Ranch
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or early fall for mild temps
- Don’t Miss: Evening views from the Main Street Bridge
Sarasota
Sarasota wrapped its arms around me with art, ocean, and endless color. The breeze off Lido Key felt like silk, and every corner seemed to echo with a quiet elegance. Wandering The Ringling gardens, I found myself pausing—often—not to take photos, but to just absorb. I remember thinking, "This is the kind of place that doesn’t just show you beauty—it makes you slow down enough to see it."
What I Loved Most: Wandering the Ringling grounds and listening to waves crash just steps from Ca’ d’Zan.
My favorite place to eat? The relaxed lunch I had at The Garden Room Café at Shoogie Boogie's. It felt like dining in a dreamy secret garden. I had the turkey, brie, and fig jam sandwich on toasted sourdough—sweet, savory, and oh-so-melty. I followed it with lavender lemonade and a slice of hummingbird cake. The whimsical decor, peaceful courtyard, and friendly service made it feel like an escape tucked right into the city.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Tampa: ~1 hour south
- Vibe: Artistic, refined, breezy
- Highlights: The Ringling, Siesta Key Beach, St. Armands Circle
- Best Time to Visit: Winter and spring for low humidity
- Don’t Miss: Sunset from Lido Key’s north jetty
Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens felt like stepping into a hymn. The peace here wasn’t performative—it was woven into every fern, stone, and birdsong. I wandered without a goal, listening for the carillon’s chimes to float across the rolling hills. I remember thinking, "I didn’t expect stillness to feel so alive."
What I Loved Most: Listening to the bell tower echo across the reflecting pool and sitting alone beneath the camellias.
My highlight? The quiet meal I enjoyed at The Blue Palmetto Café, nestled right inside the gardens. Surrounded by flowers and birdsong, I ordered the chicken salad sandwich on a croissant with a side of fresh fruit. Light, flavorful, and garden-fresh. I sipped an iced hibiscus tea and watched butterflies drift by. Between the setting and the simple, wholesome food, it felt like a moment of calm in the middle of a lush fairytale.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Orlando: ~1.5 hours southwest
- Vibe: Serene, botanical, timeless
- Highlights: Singing Tower, Pine Ridge Trail, gardens in bloom
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for azaleas and camellias in full bloom
- Don’t Miss: Carillon performances at the top of each hour
Cabbage Key
Cabbage Key felt like a secret passed quietly from one traveler to another. No cars, no noise—just sun-warmed wood docks and the occasional splash of a pelican diving. I ordered a cheeseburger in paradise and watched manatees drift through the marina like sleepy ghosts. I remember thinking, "If I ever disappear, let it be to a place like this."
What I Loved Most: Eating fresh seafood under the watch of dollar bills stapled to the ceiling and wandering the island's footpaths.
My highlight? The waterside lunch at Cabbage Key Inn Restaurant. The vibe was pure Old Florida—weathered dock, money on the walls, and friendly chatter. I had their famous cheeseburger in paradise (yes, that cheeseburger) with a cold beer. Juicy, chargrilled, and served with a killer view of Pine Island Sound. I ended with a slice of frozen key lime pie. Between the history, the charm, and that unbeatable setting, it was something special.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Fort Myers: ~1.5 hours including ferry
- Vibe: Off-grid, rustic, island-style
- Highlights: Waterfront restaurant, nature trails, manatee sightings
- Best Time to Visit: Winter or spring to avoid rain and bugs
- Don’t Miss: The view from the water tower and the burger that inspired Jimmy Buffett
Romantic Day Trips from Tampa:
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
At Crystal River, I slipped into the water and met stillness in the eyes of a manatee. The spring water was so clear it erased the line between above and below, and I floated, suspended, barely breathing. There was something reverent about it—like the world had asked me to quiet down. I remember thinking, "This is what it means to be a guest in someone else’s home."
What I Loved Most: Drifting with gentle giants and the surreal beauty of Three Sisters Springs.
My highlight? The post-paddle treat at Tea House 650 in nearby Crystal River. Cozy, artsy, and lined with books, it was the perfect place to unwind. I had a cranberry chicken salad croissant and a glass of iced peach tea. Light, fresh, and totally satisfying after a morning with the manatees. I lingered with a lemon cookie and a paperback, soaking in the peaceful energy. It was exactly what I needed.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Tampa: ~1.5 hours north
- Vibe: Natural, immersive, magical
- Highlights: Manatee tours, kayaking, spring snorkeling
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for peak manatee season
- Don’t Miss: Morning tour before the crowds and fog rising off the water
