10 Great Weekend Getaways In Florida (Beaches, Forests & More!)

There are a number of great weekend getaways in Florida that you can take advantage of during your next vacation. Whether you want to relax on the beach, enjoy some golf, or visit some nearby attractions, there is something for everyone.

In this blog post we will discuss ten destinations that are perfect for a weekend trip if you live in Florida and want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Table Of Contents

Here are the 10 best weekend getaways in Florida:
Conclusion:

Here are the 10 best weekend getaways in Florida:

1. Take a trip to the Florida Keys and see what beautiful things wait for you there

Florida Keys are located at the southernmost tip of the state. They are small islands linking with each other, stretching about 100 miles with a variety of tropical climate and vibrant colors.

Here are some tips for your Florida Keys trip. There are 2 ways to travel around the Islands – by car or by boat, so you can choose either one or a combination of both.

If you’re driving, the Overseas Highway (US 1) is the only road that links all the Keys. It’s a beautiful drive with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view, such as Bahia Honda State Park and Lovers Key State Park. The Florida Keys are also home to some great fishing spots. Charter fishing boats are the best option to pick, so you can get on one and set out to fish in open water.

During your Florida Keys trip don’t miss the Looe Key Reef – it’s a snorkeling spot teeming with life. Also, there is no shortage of things for landlubbers to do – Key West is a great place for shopping, nightlife and experiencing Caribbean culture.

There are also a number of great resorts and hotels to stay at, so you can really enjoy your time in this beautiful part of the country. No matter what you choose to do on your trip, the Florida Keys are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready for some fun in the sun!

2. Miami Is a Destination for the Immersive Experience

There are plenty of great weekend getaway destinations, but if you’re looking for something a little different, Miami, Florida should be at the top of your list. This vibrant city offers endless opportunities for entertainment and relaxation, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long week.

Start your weekend by exploring some of Miami’s famous attractions. Visit the Miami Seaquarium, home to one of the largest marine life collections in the United States. Feed a gentle dolphin or take a tour for just $8.95 per person! Alternatively, discover Florida’s flora and fauna at Jungle Island. This 22-acre park is home to more than 1,000 rare animal species including big cats, chimpanzees and kangaroos! To find out more about Miami’s history, visit the Bay of Pigs Museum. The interactive museum features videos, photographs and detailed exhibits that chronicle this important event in history.

Set up a picnic while you’re at it! Head to one of the many beautiful beaches in Miami, such as South Pointe Park. This park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Miami skyline. Pack a blanket, some snacks and drinks, and enjoy an afternoon in the sun. If you’re looking for something a little more active, take a walk or bike ride through Coconut Grove. This charming neighborhood is known for its lush vegetation and colorful homes.

Finish your weekend in style by enjoying a delicious dinner at one of Miami’s amazing restaurants. Try out some local favorites such as La Mar by Gaston Acurio, CVI.CHE 105 or Versailles Restaurant. La Mar is known for its fresh ceviche dishes, while CVI.CHE 105 offers creative Peruvian cuisine. For a taste of classic Cuban food, head to Versailles Restaurant.

No matter what you choose to do in Miami, you’re sure to have a great time! So why not visit this amazing city for your next weekend gateway?

3. Exploring Amelia Island

Just an hour North of Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a beautiful island paradise in the sun. The beaches are some of the best in Florida, the seafood is delicious, and there’s plenty to do for all ages! What more could you want? Okay… maybe a helicopter tour? Well they have that too. We’ll get into that later.

We’ll start with Friday night. You’ve already done the drive up to Amelia, so this time you get to fly in style! Head on over to Atlantic Aviation and take one of their amazing private flights down to Amelia Island. They’re cheaper than flying commercials, and you get champagne service! Don’t worry about anyone spotting your jet, they have a hangar to keep it all undercover.

Once you land, head over to The Ritz Carlton and check in. You’re going to want to spend the next few days right on the beach, so ask for a room with an ocean view. They’ll set you up with everything you need, including bikes and kayaks for the water. Don’t forget to make dinner reservations at 3 Daughters, which is easily one of the best restaurants in Florida.

After all that luxury it’s time to get dirty again! Rent an ATV and explore the island or go hiking in Fort Clinch State Park Saturday morning. The trails are easy enough for anyone to navigate, and they’re beautiful!

If you’re feeling brave, take an airboat ride down in nearby Josie. The guides are hilarious and the wildlife is amazing. You’ll see alligators, eagles, blue herons, wood storks… everything that makes Florida great! And if you get really lucky there may be some gators who come up on the boat for a visit.

4. The Nature Of Ocala National Forest

There are plenty of outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy while in the Ocala National Forest. These activities include hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. In addition, there are also a number of horse trails for those who enjoy riding horses. The scenery in the Ocala National Forest is beautiful and provides a wonderful backdrop for any outdoor activity.

If visitors are looking for a place to stay, there are a number of campgrounds in the area that offer both primitive and developed campsites. There are also a few hotels located near the forest if camping is not your thing:

No matter what you choose to do, the Ocala National Forest is a beautiful destination that offers a little bit of everything.

5. St. Augustine

Just a few hours drive from Miami lies a historic city founded in 1565 by Spanish conquistador Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles. Named after Saint Augustine of Hippo, this charming town is today the oldest continuously inhabited city in the US. Filled with cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture, St. Augustine is a real gem worth exploring for a weekend getaway.

If you’re looking to delve into the city’s history, start your visit at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This impressive fortress, built between 1672 and 1695 by the Spanish, is the oldest masonry fort in the US and offers great views over the city. Another must-see attraction is the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships into the harbor since 1874. Climb to the top of this lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

For a more leisurely exploration of the city, wander through the narrow streets of the historic district, popping into art galleries, boutiques and cafes along the way. Be sure to visit Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Downtown Plaza, which is surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, including the First Church of Florida and the City Hall. History buffs will also enjoy exploring Fort Mose Historic State Park, one of the first historically black towns in America, which is only a short drive outside of St. Augustine.

For some relaxation after all that sightseeing, head to Anastasia State Park, which is located just north of St. Augustine Beach. This popular park features great swimming and snorkeling spots, as well as a boat launch to explore the Anastasia Island wild side. And if you’re craving some sun and sand, drive south about 30 minutes to Flagler Beach for a quiet weekend getaway escape along the coast.

So if you’re looking for a fun and interesting weekend getaway, be sure to check out St. Augustine, Florida. This charming city is full of history and culture, and offers plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a relaxing beach getaway, St. Augustine is definitely worth a visit.

6. At Ginnie Springs, unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Ginnie Springs is a popular weekend getaway for people living in the Jacksonville and Gainesville areas of Florida. The natural beauty of the area and the many activities available make it a great destination for a weekend getaway.

There are plenty of things to do in Ginnie Springs, including swimming, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, scuba diving, bird watching and wildlife viewing. You can also camp in your RV or pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors while you’re here. Here are some tips to help you ensure that your visit is a memorable one:

Camping: If camping is on your agenda while you’re at Ginnie Springs, check out the campground map on the park’s website to see which campsites are available. There are both primitive and improved campsites, so you should be able to find one that meets your needs.
Swimming: The area around Ginnie Springs includes all kinds of activities for people who love the great outdoors. One of the best ways to enjoy the freshwater springs here is by swimming. Bring your goggles, too, because there’s plenty of plant life at the bottom of the spring.
Tubing: One of the most popular activities in Ginnie Springs is tubing. The best way to enjoy this is to take a trip down the river on an inner tube. You can either bring your own or rent one when you get here.
Canoeing and kayaking: If you’re a canoe or kayak enthusiast, you’ll have a great time on the Santa Fe River. This is a very gentle ride through natural areas that’s perfect for beginners and serious paddlers alike.
Scuba diving: Ginnie Springs is a great place to dive, especially if you’re looking for a place to explore the underwater world. There are plenty of caves, ledges and springs to check out, and the water is crystal clear.
Wildlife viewing: If you’re into wildlife viewing, Ginnie Springs is the perfect destination. You can see all sorts of animals here, including deer, otters, snakes and alligators.
Hiking: There are plenty of great hiking trails in and around Ginnie Springs that will take you through some beautiful scenery. Be sure to bring a camera so you can take photos of everything you see during your hike.
Bird watching: Ginnie Springs is a great place to bird watch, so bring your binoculars if you have them with you. You’ll see all sorts of birds here, and it’s a great activity for those who like to do it.

If you’re looking for a place to go where you can enjoy nature, relax, and have some fun in the water, this place is perfect. It’s a wonderful place to go if you want to get away from all the noise of city life and enjoy yourself in an idyllic setting with plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy.

7. In Cocoa Beach

If you’re looking for a great place to spend the weekend, Cocoa Beach is definitely worth considering. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach or enjoying a night out on the town. Here are some of the best things to do in Cocoa Beach:

Hit the beach. As mentioned, Cocoa Beach has a 3-mile-long beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing. The sand is white and the water is clear and blue, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun and surf.
Check out the restaurants and bars. Cocoa Beach has a wide variety of restaurants and bars, so you’re sure to find something to your taste. From seafood restaurants to beach bars, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out the local nightlife as well, which includes a variety of nightclubs and live music venues.
Go fishing. Cocoa Beach is home to some of the best fishing in Florida. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, you’ll find something to catch in the waters near Cocoa Beach. There are also plenty of bait and tackle shops in the area, along with charter fishing boats that can take you out into the Atlantic Ocean.
Take a dolphin tour. One of the most popular activities among visitors to Cocoa Beach is taking a dolphin tour. Several companies offer these tours, which typically occur on large catamaran vessels equipped with a variety of amenities, such as shaded areas, restrooms, and snack bars. You’ll have the opportunity to see dolphins up close and learn about their habitat and behavior.
Visit the Kennedy Space Center. If you’re interested in space exploration, then a visit to the Kennedy Space Center is a must. The center is home to the NASA Vehicle Assembly Building, where many of the ships used in space exploration have been manufactured. There are also exhibits that provide information on the history of space travel and future plans for missions beyond Earth.

Cocoa Beach is a great place to spend the weekend or enjoy a vacation. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach or exploring the area’s history and culture. So be sure to put Cocoa Beach on your list of must-visit destinations.

8. Explore The Hidden Gems Of Sarasota

One of the most popular spots on Sarasota Bay is Siesta Key Beach. The 8-mile long beach is renowned for its soft white sand and crystal clear waters. It’s a great place to relax, sunbathe and take a swim. There are also a number of restaurants and shops in the area, as well as a playground and volleyball courts.

Another great spot on Sarasota Bay is the Ringling Museum of Art. The museum is home to a large collection of art, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Renoir. It’s also the former home of the Ringling Brothers circus. In addition to the museum, there’s also a theater and a large garden.

9. The Palm Beaches, Florida

One of the most popular tourist destinations in The Palm Beaches is Jupiter. Just a short drive from West Palm Beach, this charming, quiet coastal town is home to several art galleries and museums.

As you stroll through the town square, take time to admire the historical buildings that surround it, including the Old Courthouse Museum (located in one of Jupiter’s oldest buildings) and Loxahatchee Groves History Museum. These places are perfect if you’re looking for a bit of culture and history during your visit.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, head to one of Jupiter’s many beaches. Carlin Beach, Dubois Park, and Ocean Cay Park are all great options, offering plenty of sand and surf to enjoy. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always go for a swim at the Jupiter Inlet or Loxahatchee River.

Another popular destination is Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, home to over 900 species of birds and other animals. Located just south of town, this bird sanctuary is perfect if you’re looking to get outdoors and enjoy some beautiful scenery.

10. Spending Quality Time On St. George Island

If you are looking for the best weekend getaway, then St. George Island should be your top pick. This island is located in Franklin County and is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider visiting St. George Island for your next weekend getaway:

The Beaches

St. George Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. The white sand and clear waters are a perfect combination for a relaxing weekend getaway. In addition, the beaches are also great for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, there are also various activities for you to try including kayaking, beach volleyball, and bicycling.

The Wildlife

One of the most spectacular things about St. George Island is its abundance of wildlife whether it’s on land or in the waters. You will definitely be surprised at all the creatures you can find on the island.

One of the most popular seaside creatures you will surely see is the loggerhead turtle. These turtles come to shore for nesting between April and October. You can observe them until dusk or dawn when they return to the ocean. If you are lucky, you might even witness a turtle lay her eggs in their sandy nests.

Another popular land animal on the island is the white-tailed deer. These deer can be seen grazing in the meadows or crossing the roads. They are usually most active at dawn and dusk.

In addition to land animals, you can also expect to see a variety of marine life while snorkeling or diving in the waters. The clear blue waters are home to a huge population of fish, sea turtles, starfish, dolphins, rays, and more!

Fresh Seafood

Who doesn’t love fresh seafood? If you are looking for great tasting seafood restaurants in Florida, then St. George Island is definitely your top pick. Whether you are looking for a casual seafood lunch spot or a more upscale dining experience, you will find plenty of restaurants to choose from on the island. And, of course, the seafood is always fresh and delicious!

The Shopping

If you are looking for some retail therapy during your weekend getaway, St. George Island has got you covered. There are plenty of shopping options on the island from small boutiques and local shops to larger department stores.

The Nightlife

If you want to mix business with pleasure, then St. George Island is the place for you! Not only will you enjoy an exciting day of exploring and activities during the day, but there are also plenty of nightlife options for you to enjoy. After grabbing some dinner on the island, be sure to check out one of the many bars, lounges, or nightclubs.

The History

One more reason why St. George Island is a popular weekend getaway destination in Florida is because of its rich history. There are several museums and historical sites on the island that are worth exploring.

Conclusion:

So, if you are looking for a great place to visit in Florida for your next weekend getaway, be sure to consider St. George Island! With its beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, fresh seafood, and exciting nightlife, you will definitely have a memorable experience.