Planning a trip to Florida? Want to know where you should visit while you are there? Florida has a coast line of 1,100 miles with a shore line, including islands and bays, of approximately 3,000 miles. More than 30,000 lakes of varying size glisten in the bright sunshine; and the combined length of navigable rivers is more than 2,500 miles.
Geography of Florida
Much of the state of Florida is situated on a peninsula between the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Straits of Florida. Spanning two time zones, it extends to the northwest into a panhandle along the northern Gulf of Mexico.
Did you know: Florida is bordered on the north by the states of Georgia and Alabama, and on the west, at the end of the panhandle, by Alabama. It is near The Bahamas and several Caribbean countries, particularly Cuba. Florida has 131 public airports, and more than 700 private airports, airstrips, heliports, and seaplane bases.
Our Favorite Places in Florida
Florida is one of the largest states east of the Mississippi River, and only Alaska and Michigan are larger in water area. Below are eight popular places that people visit in the Sunshine state, and each of them offers something that appeals to everyone.
1. Naples (Southwest)
For some travelers, the best winter beach vacations are in Florida. One of the most beloved destinations on the Gulf Coast is Naples. Here you will find a variety of relaxing rentals. Beaches can be empty in places, Naples delivers plenty of pools, hot tubs, golf courses, and activities to make up for it. The Everglades are also nearby for adventurous travelers that want to discover local Florida wildlife.
2. Orlando (Central)
If you are going with kids or you want a fun place to go even as an adult, Orlando is the place to go. Of course, there’s Walt Disney World which is a place where anyone can be a kid. But there’s also Universal Studios that you can visit that appeals to people of all ages. There are many shops and natural places to go such as Gatorland, Sea World and Discovery Cove.
3. St. Petersburg (West)
If you want some fun in the sun, St. Petersburg is the place that you want to go. There are beautiful beaches and waterfront parks. There’s also a lot of distractions like a museum that’s dedicated to Salvador Dali’s works and the memorable Florida Holocaust Museum. Tampa is also very close, which makes St. Petersburg very convenient.
4. Miami Beach (South)
There are few places that are around the globe that are more vibrant and colorful than Miami Beach. There is amazing architecture on Ocean Drive and don’t forget South Beach, where the beach bunnies love to go. There’s something for everyone in Miami Beach. One thing to remember is that it’s a very expensive area, so you want to make sure you save up.
5. St. Augustine (Northeast)
If you love history, St. Augustine is the place that you want to go. It was founded by in 1564 by Spaniards and it’s the United States’ oldest European community continuously inhabited. The monuments and buildings of the city are an amazing guide to the history of the area.
6. Sanibel Island (Southwest)
Sanibel Island is quaint and low-key and offers a casual and beautiful beach environment that a lot of families love. The prices that it offers are affordable and it has uncrowded, wide beaches. There’s something for everyone in Sanibel Island.
7. Destin (Panhandle)
Found on Florida’s Panhandle, Destin is a place that is a favorite of many vacationers. Its postcard perfect and unique white beaches are one of the things that people love about it, but they also love the small town, the golf courses and the fishing also help with bringing people in.
8. Key West (South)
When people think of the Florida Keys, Key West is one of the places that comes to mind. The conch-style homes, coral reefs and free-spirited locals are the things that draw people in. If you love books, you’ll find the Ernest Hemmingway House and Museum is a worthy visit. There’s so much here to discover that you are going to love this.
MAP OF FLORIDA
Conclusion
If you are going to Florida, you’ll find that there are a lot of great places to go no matter what appeals to you. These are just seven of the spots that you’ll find have a lot to offer. When you come to Florida, you’ll find that there is so much fun to be had!
Planning a Trip to Florida?
After seeing Florida’s beaches, return to the beauty and comfort of a home from Naples Florida Vacation Homes. We have a wide selection of homes located all over the Southwest Florida area. Whether you’re hoping to squeeze in a few rounds of golf during your visit or you’d like to relax by a private pool, you’ll find the perfect home to fit your needs.
Check out our rentals and book today! We look forward to having you.
