Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida
Florida is a southeastern state in the United States known for its sunshine, beaches, and tourist attractions like Walt Disney World and the Everglades National Park. It’s also famous for its vibrant culture. In this article, we’ll check out Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida with a special focus on Florida’s beaches.
1. Everglades National Park
#1 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Everglades National Park:
- Hiking and Biking at Shark Valley Tram, Gumbo Limbo Trail, Anhinga Trail
- Take a Airboat Ride, Boat Tour and Rent a kayak and explore the park’s waterways.
- Watch Wildlife by Visiting the Alligator Hole, a popular spot for seeing alligators.
- Other Activities that you can do like Camping, Fishing, Stargazing, Bird-Watching and more
- Ranger-Led Programs: The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including hikes, talks, and boat tours
Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park
Dry Season (November – March)
- Pros : Pleasant weather with mild temperatures and low humidity, fewer mosquitoes, more wildlife sightings as animals congregate around water sources, better visibility for airboat tours and photography.
- Cons: Peak season with larger crowds and higher prices, possibility of occasional cold fronts.
Wet Season (April – October)
- Pros: Fewer crowds and lower prices, lush greenery, opportunities to see birds migrating south.
- Cons: Hot and humid weather, increased mosquito activity, afternoon thunderstorms, some trails and activities may be closed due to high water levels.
How to Reach Everglades National Park
- Miami International Airport (MIA) and
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
By public transportation:
- Some companies offer day trips from Miami that include transportation to the park.
- Greyhound buses also have a stop in Homestead, near the Ernest Coe Visitor Center. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare to the park entrance.
2. Dry Tortugas National Park
#2 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Dry Tortugas National Park :
- Exploring the old Fort Jefferson the largest brick fort in the Western Hemisphere
- Plunge into the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Snorkeling, and diving in the clear blue water
- You can go for a ride and see amazing views of the coastline.
- Camping under the stars is a great way to experience nature
There’s so much to discover and enjoy in this special place!
Best Time to Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
- February – April: It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the fort. However, expect higher prices and potentially booked-out ferry/seaplane reservations, so plan ahead!
- October – November: These months offer warm temperatures with a chance of rain and slightly rougher seas compared to peak season. It’s a good option if you want to avoid the peak crowds and don’t mind slightly less ideal weather for water activities. Keep in mind that Bush Key, a popular birdwatching spot, is closed during this time for nesting season.
How to reach Dry Tortugas National Park:
- Ferry: The Yankee Freedom is the official ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park, departing daily from Key West.
- Seaplane: for a faster and more scenic option, consider a seaplane tour. Several companies offer seaplane tours from Key West, taking about 45 minutes to reach the park.
3. Siesta Key, Florida
#3 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
This barrier island is known for its sugar-white sand beaches, which have been named the finest in the country. The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling.
Activities to Do in Siesta Key, Florida :
Experience a day of fun at Siesta Beach!
- Enjoy beach volleyball or let the kids play on the playground.
- Ride the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley, dine and shop at Siesta Key Village
- Take an e-bike tour with Sarasota Bike Tours.
- Catch stunning sunsets at Sunset Point/Patriots Pier
- Enjoy water adventures with CB’s Saltwater Outfitters.
- Join the Siesta Key Drum Circle, relax at Mandala Med Spa
- Take a booze cruise with Sarasota Boat Tours.
- Don’t miss the Farmers Market or live music at Siesta Key Oyster Bar!
Best Time to Visit Siesta Key, Florida :
- April to May or September to October. These months have nice weather, not too hot like summer, and fewer people than in winter.
- If you want to escape snow and enjoy sunshine, winter is awesome.
How to Reach Siesta Key, Florida :
By Airplanes:
- The nearest airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), 10 miles away.
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport
- Interstate 75 (I-75): This major highway runs north-south through Florida and provides easy access to Siesta Key.
- Buses: Greyhound buses connect major cities to Sarasota, and from there, you can take a local bus or taxi to Siesta Key.
- Boat: If you’re coming from another part of Florida by boat, there are public marinas on the island.
4. Clearwater Beach, Florida
#4 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Clearwater Beach, Florida :
Clearwater Beach is a popular tourist destination, with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.
- Relax on the beach: The beaches in Clearwater Beach are some of the most beautiful in the world.
- Go parasailing or jet skiing: For an adrenaline rush, try parasailing or jet skiing. You’ll get amazing views of the coastline and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Visit Pier 60: Pier 60 is a popular spot for watching sunsets, fishing, and people-watching.
- Discover the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where you can meet dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and other marine animals.
- Go on a dolphin-watching tour: Take a boat tour and see dolphins playing in their natural habitat.
- Go snorkeling or scuba diving: Explore the underwater world off the coast of Clearwater Beach.
- Shop and dine: There are many shops and restaurants along Beach Avenue, where you can find everything from souvenirs to fresh seafood.
Best time to visit Clearwater Beach, Florida:
- October and December is best time to visit Clearwater Beach
- April, May or June is best month If your main objective is viewing wildlife
How to Reach Clearwater Beach, Florida :
By Airplanes:
- St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE): The closest airport, just 10 miles (16 kilometers) away.
- Tampa International Airport (TPA): Located 20 miles (32 kilometers) north.
By ships:
- Port Tampa Bay: If arriving by cruise ship, be prepared for an unforgettable Florida welcome.
By Road:
- Interstate 275: This major highway connects Clearwater Beach to major cities like Tampa and Orlando.
- US Highway 19: US 19 leads directly to Clearwater Beach. Enjoy the leisurely drive or stop at charming beach towns along the way.
5. Bahia Honda State Park
#5 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Bahia Honda State Park :
- Camping : Enjoy camping at Bahia Honda State Park with 80 sites for tents and RVs.
- Kayaking : Explore the waters with stable sit-on-top Ocean Kayaks.
- Biking : Cruise the 3.5-mile hard surface road on your bike.
- Fishing : Try tarpon fishing, one of the best in Florida. Charter boats available. Remember your saltwater fishing license.
- Swimming : Swim in the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay at Bahia Honda’s beautiful beaches.
- Shop & Snack bar : Shop for souvenirs and snorkeling gear at the gift shop. Grab pizza, sandwiches, and more at the snack bar.
- Park Program : Join park programs on natural and cultural history topics offered throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Bahia Honda State Park :
- March and June are the best times to swim because the water is just right. If you want to ride bikes for some exercise, you can do that any time of year.
How to Reach Bahia Honda State Park:
By Airplanes
- Key West (EYW) Airport, just 32 miles away.
- Miami (MIA) Airport, 100 miles Away.
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) Airport, approximately 120.5 miles away.
Public Transport
- Key West Transit, operate buses between Key West to Bahia Honda State Park, departs from N Roosevelt & 4th Street and arrives in Bahia Honda State Park.
6. Caladesi Island State Park
#6 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Caladesi Island State Park:
- Enjoy Swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Sunbathe on the beach.
- Hike or bike on the nature trails.
- Go kayaking or canoeing in the bayside • mangrove forest.
- Fish for tarpon, snook, and redfish.
- Picnic under the palm trees.
- Collect seashells.
Best time to visit Caladesi Island State Park:
- Best time to visit Caladesi Island State Park is in the March-May or September-November, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller
How to Reach Caladesi Island State Park:
- You can only get to Caladesi Island by taking a ferry or other boat.
The ferry departs from Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin. You can purchase ferry tickets online or at the park.
7. Fort De Soto Park, Florida
#7 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Fort De Soto Park, Florida
- Hiking and biking: Explore the park’s seven miles of paved trails, winding through mangroves, hammocks, and coastal ecosystems.
- Camping: The park offers a 236-site campground with electric and water hookups, perfect for a nature getaway.
- Fishing: Cast your line from the fishing piers or rent a kayak or canoe to explore the calm waters.
- Fort tours: Step back in time and explore the historic Fort De Soto, built during the Spanish-American War.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the mangrove tunnels, teeming with birds and marine life.
- Birdwatching: With over 328 species of birds documented in the park, it’s a paradise for birdwatchers.
Best time to visit Fort De Soto Park, Florida
- March-May or September-November when comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful wildflowers. However, there’s a higher chance of rain showers
How to Reach Fort De Soto Park, Florida :
- The closest airport to Fort De Soto Park is Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ).
- You can take a bus from Tampa (TPA) to get to Fort De Soto Park.
- You can also take a taxi to get to Fort De Soto park.
8. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
#8 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park:
- Snorkeling and scuba diving: The park is home to a variety of coral reefs, fish, and other marine life.
- Glass-bottom boat tours: You can see the coral reefs and marine life by taking a glass-bottom boat tour.
- Kayaking and canoeing: The park is also a great place to go kayaking or canoeing.
- Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the park, including the Anhinga Trail.
- Visiting the Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Visitor Center: The visitor center has exhibits about the park’s history, ecology, and marine life.
- Others activities that, you can also do like Camping, picnicking, fishing, Birdwatching, etc.
Best time to visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park :
- May to October: Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying the beach.
- April/May and September/October: Comfortable water temperatures (around 75°F) and generally calmer seas with smaller crowds compared to peak season.
How to Reach John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park :
By Airplanes :
- Miami (MIA) Airport ( 47.2 miles away )
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) (67.8 miles away)
- Key West (EYW) (93.9 miles away)
- West Palm Beach/Palm Beach (PBI) (110.4 miles away)
By car:
- The park is located on US Highway 1 Take exit 99 and follow the signs to the park.
By bus:
- The Miami-Dade County Bus System operates a bus route that stops near the park entrance.
By boat:
- The park can be accessed by boat from Key Largo. Many places nearby let you rent boats.
9. Miami, Florida
#9 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Miami:
- Relax at beaches like South Beach, Lummus Park Beach and North Beach.
- Exploring the Everglades National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see alligators, crocodiles, and other wildlife.
- Diving or Snorkeling at Biscayne National Park.
- Paddleboarding or Kayaking at Oleta River State Park
- Biking through Miami Beach
- Visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a beautiful Italian Renaissance-style mansion that was built in the early 1900s.
- Experiencing Cuban culture in Little Havana
- Learning about Art Deco architecture in the Art Deco District
- Catching a live performance at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
- Other things we can do like Shopping at the Miami Design District, enjoy Dancing the night away at a nightclub, Taking a boat tour of Biscayne Bay, Visiting the Miami Seaquarium and more.
Best time to visit Miami:
- March – May: This is a great choice if you enjoy outdoor activities and want to avoid the hottest months.
- November – December: Early winter brings sunny skies, comfortable temperatures, and less rain than summer.
How to Reach Miami:
By Airplanes:
- Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary airport serving the city, with connections to hundreds of destinations worldwide.
By Sea:
- Cruises: Miami is a major cruise ship hub, with many cruise lines offering itineraries that depart or arrive in the city.
- Ferry boats: Passenger ferry services are available from nearby locations like Fort Lauderdale and Bimini in the Bahamas.
By Land:
- Interstate highways: Miami is well-connected by major highways, including I-95 and the Florida Turnpike.
- Buses: Greyhound and other bus companies provide intercity connections to Miami from various locations across the United States.
By Trains:
- Amtrak offers train services to Miami from major cities like New York City, Orlando, and Washington D.C.
10. Sanibel Island
#10 of 10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida, US (Photo source : pinterest) |
Activities to Do in Sanibel Island :
- Swimming, sunbathing, and shelling.
- You can go kayaking, canoeing, fishing, biking, hiking, and birdwatching.
- Explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
- Explore the Sanibel Island Birding & Nature Center
- Explore the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village
- Take a boat tour, Go shopping, Take a sunset cruise and more.
Best time to visit Sanibel Island:
- December to April is the best time to go, If you don’t mind crowds and looking for the best weather.
- September and October is the best time If you’re on a budget or prefer smaller crowds.
How to Reach Sanibel Island:
By Airplane :
- Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) Nearest major airport
By Boat :
- Ferry: The Sanibel Captiva Island Ferry operates a ferry service between Captiva Island and Fort Myers Beach.
- Private boat: If you have your own boat or charter one, you can dock at Sanibel Harbour or South Seas Island Resort.
By Land :
- You can take I-75 south to Fort Myers and then follow signs for Sanibel Island.
- Lee County Transit’s Line 50 bus runs approximately every 3 hours directly from the Fort Myers RSW Airport (RSW) to the Beach Park & Ride on Sanibel Causeway. From there, you’ll need to take a taxi or rideshare to reach your final destination on the island.
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