Think Florida is just beaches and theme parks? Think again. The Sunshine State is packed with quirky towns, natural wonders, hidden gems, and scenic routes—all perfect for a weekend road trip.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or something weird and wonderful, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 7 Florida weekend road trips that locals swear by—and you’ll be planning your next one by the end of this post.
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1. The Gulf Coast Loop: Clearwater to Anna Maria Island
Drive time: 1–2 hours (one way)
Why go: Stunning beaches, beach bars, and island charm.
Start in Clearwater Beach, then work your way south to St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille, and finally Anna Maria Island.
This coastal route is short but packed with character, sunsets, and seafood.
Don’t miss the Don CeSar hotel or the food at Bridge Tender on Bridge Street in Anna Maria Island.
Must do:
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Sunset at Pier 60 (Clearwater)
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Street art and breweries in downtown St. Pete
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Bike rentals on Anna Maria Island
2. Springs & Small Towns: Gainesville to High Springs
Drive time: 40 minutes (plus exploration time)
Why go: Crystal-clear springs, peaceful nature, and charming downtowns.
Use Gainesville as your hub and take a spring-hopping tour of North Central Florida.
Visit Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, and Ichetucknee Springs—all within a short drive.
Cool off in the turquoise water and enjoy tubing or kayaking down spring-fed rivers.
Must do:
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Kayak through Ichetucknee Springs
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Lunch at Great Outdoors Restaurant in High Springs
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Visit Paynes Prairie State Park
3. Old Florida Vibes: Cedar Key Escape
Drive time: 2–3 hours from Tampa/Gainesville
Why go: Quiet fishing village, killer sunsets, and seafood.
Cedar Key is what Florida looked like 50 years ago—sleepy, salty, and packed with charm.
It’s the perfect road trip for unplugging and unwinding.
Must do:
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Cedar Key Museum State Park
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Fresh seafood at Steamers
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Kayak through the mangroves
4. The Classic: Miami to Key West (Overseas Highway)
Drive time: 3.5–4 hours (one way)
Why go: Iconic drive, tropical vibes, and endless photo ops.
This is Florida’s most famous road trip for good reason. The Overseas Highway takes you over 40+ bridges through the Florida Keys, ending in the party-meets-paradise vibes of Key West.
Must do:
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Feed the tarpon at Robbie’s in Islamorada
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Stop at Bahia Honda State Park
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Snap a pic at the Southernmost Point
5. Space Coast Discovery: Cocoa Beach to Cape Canaveral
Drive time: 1 hour from Orlando
Why go: Surf culture meets space exploration.
Perfect for families or space nerds, this trip combines beaches, rocket launches, and laid-back coastal towns.
Visit the Kennedy Space Center and then chill in Cocoa Beach.
Must do:
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Catch a launch from Playalinda Beach
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Visit Kennedy Space Center
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Visit the Pier and take surf lessons in Cocoa Beach
6. Panhandle Paradise: Pensacola to 30A
Drive time: About 2 hours (depending on stops)
Why go: White sand, clear water, and quaint beach towns.
Start in Pensacola and work your way along Highway 30A, stopping in Seaside, Grayton Beach, and Rosemary Beach.
It’s like a coastal road trip mixed with a Hallmark movie.
Must do:
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Brunch in Seaside
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Beach day at Grayton Beach State Park
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Sunset bike ride along 30A
7. The Nature Lover’s Getaway: Ocala National Forest Loop
Drive time: 2–3 hours total
Why go: Springs, forests, and quiet trails.
Ocala is ideal for nature lovers. Hike the forest, swim in Juniper Springs, and camp under the stars. You’ll feel like you’re in a different state entirely.
Must do:
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Paddle Juniper Run
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Swim in Silver Glen Springs
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Spot wild horses in the forest
Final Tips for Florida Road Trips:
Start early to beat traffic (and the heat).
Bring cash for tolls, small diners, and park fees.
Pack a cooler—some of these spots have amazing picnic opportunities.
Watch the weather, especially in summer.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Florida is more than just palm trees and theme parks. Whether you’re into quirky beach towns, wild springs, or scenic drives, these weekend trips are proof that adventure is never far away.
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Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
