Florida is an excellent choice if you're looking for a sunny and memorable vacation spot. Not only is it home to some of the best beaches in the world, but plenty of unique places to explore will keep you busy throughout your trip.
From exciting theme parks in Orlando to bustling city streets and fun outdoor activities like swimming with dolphins - all within driving distance from each other! Whether planning a family holiday or taking a break alone, today's blog post has something for everyone: the rundown of our top favorite destinations in Florida that should be at the top of your travel bucket list.
Best Places to Visit in Florida in 2023
Siesta Key
Siesta Key, located on the west coast of Florida, is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and sun seekers. Its white sand beaches are some of the nicest in the world; they are also home to incredible watersports activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and jet skiing.
The island has plenty of restaurants, shopping centers., and tourist attractions that make Siesta Key an ideal spot for a family vacation or romantic getaway. In addition to all the fun outdoor activities on the island, visitors can explore nearby Sarasota and its mesmerizing cultural scene or take a day trip to Bradenton for more shopping and dining options. No matter how you spend time in Siesta Key, the island promises an unforgettable experience.
Regarding accommodations, Siesta Key has something to offer everyone, from small, cozy beach cottages to luxurious resorts with all the amenities. Visitors can also check out a range of vacation rentals that provide the perfect home away from home atmosphere and make your stay even more enjoyable.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is one of Florida's most unique and beautiful places. Located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, this remote island chain is home to some of the world's best snorkeling and diving spots. With its pristine water and abundant marine life, Dry Tortugas is a paradise for underwater adventurers.
The park encompasses seven islands and an atoll, with Fort Jefferson as its centerpiece. This historic fort was built in the mid-1800s; today, it is a great place to explore and learn about the area's history. Visitors can take part in guided ranger tours or wander independently, taking in all the sights that make this destination special.
In addition to the breathtaking underwater scenery, Dry Tortugas also offers opportunities to observe an incredible variety of birds and marine life. From brown pelicans and ospreys soaring overhead to sea turtles swimming in the warm waters below, you can easily spend a day observing all that nature offers.
The Everglades National Park
The Everglades is one of Florida’s most unique destinations. Spanning over 1.5 million acres, this natural wonderland is home to various species, including alligators, crocodiles, panthers, and manatees. The wetland also serves as a refuge for many migratory birds throughout the year, making it a great place for birdwatchers.
Visitors can explore the park either by car or on foot; taking an airboat ride through the sawgrass marshes is another great way to experience the wonders of this ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife while you wander around, and watch for gators lurking in the waters!
South Beach
South Beach, or So Be as locals often refer to it, is one of the most popular destinations in Florida. This vibrant area is a favorite for beachgoers thanks to its iconic white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It also offers plenty of nightlife options, with clubs, bars, and restaurants open until the early morning.
During the day, visitors can explore the Art Deco buildings in South Beach or stroll on Ocean Drive's famous boardwalk. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as biking, rollerblading, or stand-up paddleboarding. The shallow waters near shore make swimming and snorkeling a great way to spend time in the water.
Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is a beach town located on the Gulf Coast of Florida. It's known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, and incredible outdoor activities that make it one of the best places to visit in Florida. Whether looking for a relaxing day by the ocean or an exciting adventure exploring the area, Clearwater Beach has something to offer everyone.
The beaches are the main attraction here; visitors can sunbathe on the powdery soft sand while listening to gentle waves roll ashore. The calm waters make swimming and other recreational activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding a breeze, while seasoned surfers will appreciate catching some of the larger waves just offshore. Many local vendors offer parasailing and banana boat rides, making Clearwater Beach the perfect spot for an active beach day.
When you’re not in the water, there are plenty of other things to do in Clearwater. Stroll along the pier and take in some of the beautiful views from a different perspective or explore one of the many local restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes. Nature lovers will also find plenty here; visitors can rent kayaks and explore mangroves, look out for dolphins swimming nearby, or visit Caladesi Island State Park for picturesque hiking trails and secluded beaches.
Naples
Naples is a vibrant coastal city located on the western coast of Florida. From its stunning white sand beaches to its world-class shopping and dining opportunities, this charming destination has something for everyone.
Naples is home to some of the best beaches in Florida; visitors can soak up the sun while lounging on the soft sand or take advantage of the many watersports activities available here. The calm waters make Naples an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding, while more advanced surfers will appreciate catching some waves just offshore.
Marco Island
Marco Island is a popular tourist destination located in Southwest Florida. With its world-class beaches, lush wilderness areas, and plenty of outdoor activities, it's easy to see why it's such an attractive destination.
The beaches here are a highlight; from sugary white sands to crystal blue waters, they offer the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the sunshine. Visitors can also explore the nearby waters on a kayak or boat tour, go fishing on one of the many charters available, or take part in snorkeling excursions where you can observe various colorful marine life up close.
FAQs
Where is the prettiest place in Florida?
The beaches in Naples are some of the most stunning places to visit in Florida. Its soft white sand and crystal blue waters make it an ideal destination for a memorable beach day.
What is the nicest city in Florida?
It depends on what you're looking for in a city. Miami offers some of the best nightlife and shopping opportunities, while Naples has stunning beaches and plenty of outdoor activities. Orlando is home to some of the best theme parks in the world, while smaller cities like Clearwater Beach offer a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere.
Are there any theme parks in Florida?
Orlando has many world-famous theme parks, including Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. There are also a variety of smaller theme parks across the state, such as Legoland and Gatorland. With so many options available, this is one of the best places to visit in Florida for families.
Conclusion
The Sunshine State has something for everyone, from its stunning beaches to its exciting theme parks. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore some of Florida's unique attractions, plenty of places are worth visiting in this beautiful state.
