Best of South Florida Road Trip

Itinerary

3 Nights – Fort Lauderdale
4 Nights – Key West
4 Nights – Naples
3 Nights – Miami

Option to visit the Florida Everglades.

✈️ UK to Fort Lauderdale (3 nights): Your Southern Florida adventure begins in Fort Lauderdale, a city often overshadowed by Miami but a true treasure in its own right. Known as the ‘Venice of America,’ Fort Lauderdale is famous for its extensive canal network that winds through the city. A great way to ease yourself in and to get the lay of the land is to take a water taxi, gliding past millionaire mansions and mega yachts that line the shores. For some relaxation, head to Fort Lauderdale Beach with its soft sands and ocean breeze. The area is home to various luxurious beachfront hotels, providing an ideal base to enjoy the beauty of the beach and the atmosphere of the city. When it comes to shopping, dining, and culture, Las Olas Boulevard is the place to be, with cafés spilling out onto the pavement, trendy art galleries, and chic boutiques.

🚗 Fort Lauderdale to Key West (4 nights):  From Fort Lauderdale, you’ll head south and follow the legendary Overseas Highway towards the stunning Florida Keys. This isn’t just any old road! This iconic, island-hopping route stretches 113 miles, crossing 42 bridges, weaving you through the islands of the Keys. As you head towards Key West, you’ll be surrounded by shimmering turquoise water on both sides of the road. For a pitstop on the way, consider taking the short detour to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo. It’s the first underwater park in the USA where you can snorkel among the colourful coral reefs. After crossing the epic Seven Mile Bridge, you’ll eventually arrive in Key West, the southernmost point of mainland USA. Key West is known as one of the more characterful islands of the archipelago with its vibrant streets, lively atmosphere, and laid-back feel. Visit Ernest Hemingway’s former home (complete with six-toed cats), and the Southernmost Point marker. The beaches here are fringed with palm trees and perfect for swimming and relaxing. The snorkelling is also excellent with various options: Head offshore to Sand Key, stay close to shore at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, or take a day trip to the pristine waters of Dry Tortugas National Park. In the evening, make your way to Mallory Square for Key West’s famous Sunset Celebration. Every day, people gather here to watch the sunset, and the whole waterfront area comes alive with street performers and musicians, with food and drink stalls rounding it off. This is the perfect chance to enjoy the local fresh seafood and a slice of the iconic Key lime pie.

🚗 Key West to Naples (4 nights): Next, you’ll cross the state to the Gulf Coast and head for Naples. This elegant seaside town is known for its well-kept beaches, high-end shopping and dining, and pretty downtown area with pastel-coloured buildings. Popular beaches include Vanderbilt Beach, with its powdery white sand and clear, calm waters, and Clam Pass Park, where you can stroll along a boardwalk through a mangrove forest to a quiet beach. If you prefer not to walk, there is a free tram service to take you directly to the beach. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find the iconic Naples Pier (built in 1888), offering spectacular views of the Gulf and ideal for fishing, dolphin watching, or simply enjoying the sunset. Just steps from the pier, Fifth Avenue South is home to boutique shops, art galleries, and al fresco cafés.   So grab a drink, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, and indulge in some people-watching whilst soaking up the rays.

🚗 Key West to Miami (3 nights):  Your final stop is Miami but getting there is half the adventure. We recommend that you take a slight detour on your drive east through the Big Cypress National Preserve and the Everglades. This route adds a little bit of extra time to your drive, but it’s definitely worth it to experience this unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and herons. The most iconic way to explore the Everglades is to take an airboat trip and glide over the sawgrass plains with an experienced guide to help you spot the wildlife hiding in the reeds and shallow waters. Once you reach Miami, you’ll feel the pace shift to the city’s electric energy, with each area offering its own distinct vibe. Wander the mural-covered streets of Wynwood, grab a strong Cuban coffee in Little Havana, or soak up the sun while watching the classic cars cruise by on Ocean Drive. Take a boat tour around Biscayne Bay to admire the millionaire homes on Star Island or head to the gardens of Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Miami has an excellent dining scene whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood, Cuban cuisine, or Michelin star restaurants. At night, the energy ramps up as the city comes alive with cocktail lounges, rooftop bars, and trendy clubs – a wonderful finale to your trip.

✈️ Miami to UK:  Capping off your Southern Florida road trip, you’ll head to the airport for your flight back to the UK.