South Florida is where laid-back beach days meet luxury, culture, and nonstop sunshine.
Whether you’re into palm-lined boardwalks, waterfront dining, or tropical vibes that feel more Caribbean than continental U.S.—this road trip is for you.
Here’s how to spend 3 perfect days beach-hopping your way through South Florida, from Jupiter to the edge of Key Biscayne.
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Top Tours in Florida – Viator
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Day 1: Jupiter + West Palm Beach
Morning: Jupiter (Nature Meets Luxury)
Start your South Florida road trip in scenic Jupiter, where natural beauty meets upscale coastal living.
It’s calm, classy, and full of Old Florida charm.
Things to do:
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Climb to the top of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse for amazing views
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Explore Blowing Rocks Preserve and its unique limestone shoreline
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Grab breakfast at Berry Fresh Café – a local favorite known for creative, farm-fresh dishes like buttermilk pancakes, bagels, granola bowls, and fresh juices
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Take a walk along the scenic Riverwalk on the Intracoastal
Bonus: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Loxahatchee River for a peaceful start to your trip.
This is one of Florida’s most photogenic hidden gems—and it still feels refreshingly uncrowded.
Afternoon: West Palm Beach (Trendy + Walkable)
Just 30 minutes south, West Palm Beach offers a sophisticated vibe with a lively waterfront and cultural flair.
Top things to do:
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Stroll down Clematis Street or visit The Square for dining & shopping
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Relax at Palm Beach Municipal Beach or visit Ocean Reef Park
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Visit the Norton Museum of Art or take a boat tour on the Intracoastal
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Grab happy hour drinks at RH Rooftop or E.R. Bradley’s Saloon
Pro tip: Cross over to Palm Beach Island for a quick detour to Worth Avenue, Florida’s version of Rodeo Drive.
Between beaches, boutiques, and breezy palms, this is upscale Florida at its finest.
Day 2: Boca Raton + Pompano Beach + Fort Lauderdale
Morning: Boca Raton (Elegant + Peaceful)
Boca is polished and peaceful, with manicured gardens, pristine beaches, and a slower pace that’s perfect for a relaxing start to the day.
Don’t miss:
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Morning stroll through Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
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Hit South Beach Park for soft sand and sea turtle nesting areas
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Coffee and brunch at The Seed or Saquella Café
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Take a walk through Mizner Park for shopping and art galleries
Extra stop: The Boca Raton Resort’s pink tower is iconic—even if you’re not staying there, it’s a landmark worth seeing.
It’s the kind of place where everything feels polished, palm-lined, and peaceful.
Afternoon: Deerfield Beach (Easygoing + Local-Favorite)
Just a short drive south, Deerfield Beach is a fun, casual, and clean beach destination that is a Southern Florida gem.
Things to do:
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Walk the scenic boardwalk and beachfront promenade with ocean views
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Relax at Quiet Waters Park or along the beach
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Grab a drink or bite at JB’s on the Beach or Oceans 234 right on the sand. I also love Whale’s Rib, just a short walk from the pier area.
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Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the nearby Hillsboro Canal
Bonus ideas: Visit Sullivan Park, right across from the waterfront, for family-friendly green space and Intracoastal views
If you’re visiting on a weekend, keep an eye out for beachside live music or outdoor festivals.
Deerfield brings chill coastal charm with a fun, easygoing crowd—and just enough buzz.
My girlfriend and I visiting Las Olas Beach in Fort Lauderdale Beach
Evening: Fort Lauderdale (Buzzing + Beautiful)
Wrap up your day in Fort Lauderdale, where the vibes are as strong as the ocean breeze (and the drinks).
From canals to nightlife, this city is a must-visit as you head south on Florida’s Atlantic Coast.
Things to do:
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Stroll the Las Olas Boulevard shops and galleries
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Relax at Fort Lauderdale Beach or rent bikes along the promenade
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Sunset cocktail at Elbo Room or a fancier dinner at Coconuts
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Consider a water taxi cruise through the “Venice of America” canals
Extra idea: Hit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens for a blend of nature and historic charm.
You’ll get a perfect mix of energy and elegance, especially as the sun sets over the Intracoastal.
Day 3: Miami + Key Biscayne
Morning: Miami (Vibrant + Iconic)
No South Florida road trip is complete without a stop in Miami.
From the color-soaked streets of Wynwood to the energy of South Beach, it’s a feast for the senses.
Must do:
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Grab Cuban coffee in Little Havana
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Walk along Ocean Drive and the famous Art Deco District
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Take in the murals at Wynwood Walls
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Brunch at The Front Porch Café or Greenstreet Café in Coconut Grove
Pro tip: South Pointe Park at the tip of Miami Beach offers unreal sunrise views and a less crowded beach experience (pictured above).
There’s no place quite like Miami—it’s a full-on awesome experience you won’t forget.
My girlfriend and I posing for a sunset shot at Crandon Beach Park in Key Biscayne
Afternoon: Key Biscayne (Tranquil + Tropical)
Drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway to Key Biscayne, a calm island oasis that feels worlds away from the Miami buzz.
Don’t miss:
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Visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and climb the lighthouse
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Walk or bike through Crandon Park and spot peacocks and wildlife
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Enjoy a quiet beach day with views of downtown in the distance
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End your trip with fresh seafood at Rusty Pelican for unbeatable sunset views
Bonus: Stop for a photo at the scenic causeway bridges—some of the best skyline views around.
This is the exhale moment at the end of your trip, and it’s one of South Florida’s best-kept secrets.
South Florida Road Trip Tips:
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Book a rental car—it’s the best way to explore at your own pace.
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Visit in winter or spring for the best weather and fewer storms.
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Bring beach essentials but also dress smart—some stops are upscale.
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Consider splitting your stay between Palm Beach County and Miami-Dade to cut down on backtracking.
Final Thoughts
From the natural beauty of Jupiter to the glam of Miami to the tranquil shores of Key Biscayne, South Florida has a beach town for every mood.
Whether you want paddleboarding, beach bar hopping, shopping, or serenity, this road trip is the perfect way to soak up the best of the coast.
Bookmark this guide and enjoy your trip as you head down Florida’s South Atlantic Coast!
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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! 🚗
