Your kids’ spring break is days away. You’ve got nothing planned but know that a change of scenery would do everyone good. Lucky you: the Sunshine State has endless spring break trip options from coastal to inland, from freshwater to salty sweet, from artsy to scientific and from buzzing and over the top to tiny and quaint. And it’s all a hop, skip and a drive from Miami!
Here are 5 parts of Florida to check out:
South Florida
Everglades and Biscayne National Parks
For Miamians, our backyard is the wild heart of South Florida! Everglades National Park immerses families in one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. Airboat rides, ranger programs, bike trails and boardwalks offer safe ways for children to spot alligators, manatees, turtles and birds in their natural habitat.
Just south of Miami, Biscayne National Park is 95% water. Shallow water showcases fish, reefs and calm waters for easy paddling. Glass-bottom boat tours are a great way to view marine life without getting wet before jumping in the car to go home. Both parks are outdoor science adventures for all.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Requiring more time than a day trip, Dry Tortugas National Park is a secluded set of islands miles from Key West. It is known for stunning beaches and reefs as well as one of America’s most dramatic historic sites: Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortress that stands tall, seeming to rise from the sea. Accessible only by ferry or seaplane, camp out overnight or plan accommodations to stay in Key West. Beyond the sites, the journey of getting to and from the park will remain a lifelong memory!
Peanut Island
Closer to home but just as magical, Peanut Island in Palm Beach County has lagoon-style water perfect for littles. A quick water taxi ride can take you to picnic areas, walking trails and protected coves for snorkeling and swimming. Enjoy an island-resort feel without the expense or logistics.
Central Florida
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
An awesome family experience – even for those terrified of cold water like me – Devil’s Den is a snorkeling/scuba destination like none other. The underground spring is hidden deep within a 120-foot wide cave with fossil-filled walls and crystal-clear water. For above-ground swimming and lounging, Devil’s Den recently renovated John’s Oasis; admission is included in snorkeling reservations. With additional springs in the area, highlight a day trip with Devil’s Den or camp out overnight. Our family loved it and enjoys looking back years later.
Lake Placid
Phenomenal water fun (27 lakes!), fishing, wildlife exploration, art appreciation and Southern hospitality make Lake Placid the best kept secret of nearby getaways. The art scene stands out with 50 outdoor murals as well as galleries throughout its charming downtown. If science is your thing, check out the Archbold Biological Station – a “living laboratory” ecological treasure. Racing and history buffs love the Sebring International Raceway: North America’s oldest permanent road racing track, evolving from a World War II airbase. Stay at a rustic fish camp or a lux, historic hotel. The options are endless, and the town is the sweetest. I’d love for it to be our family’s next stop.
Gulf Coast
Fort Myers/Sanibel Island/Captiva Island
This trio of Gulf Coast gems define a distinctly different beach experience from what we know in Miami: powdery white sand, clear water and west coast sunsets. Fort Myers is loaded with family resorts and access to islands like Sanibel and Captiva. Sanibel is renowned for its shells and nature preserves, making it perfect for families who love the great outdoors. Captiva is dotted with colorful cottages (no high-rises allowed!) along turquoise water: picture-perfect for those seeking quiet and tranquility.
St. Petersburg-Clearwater
St. Petersburg and Clearwater combine gorgeous beaches with vibrant cultural action. Famous for wild dolphins, emerald water and quartz sand, Clearwater Beach is always listed as one of the country’s best. Every day wraps up with a community sunset celebration with artisans, street performers and new friends. Paired with St. Petersburg’s parks, museums, galleries (aka Florida’s Glass Coast) and the Southeast’s largest waterfront playground, this is the ultimate family beach town.
Northeast Florida
Kennedy Space Center
A hands-on space exploration adventure awaits you at Kennedy Space Center! Board spacecraft, meet astronauts, tour interactive exhibits and witness rocket launches, making it a learning experience and an unforgettable day trip. The launch schedule is published in advance, so plan around that, keeping in mind that Florida’s ever-changing weather determines all.
Amelia Island
A dream for nature lovers, the star of Amelia Island is the 500-year-old maritime forest canopy. Giant oak trees deeply rooted into the coast shade bike paths, salt marshes weave throughout the island for awesome paddleboarding and hundreds of species call ithome for magnificent wildlife viewing. In addition to fossil hunting, conservation eco-tours and beach horseback riding, don’t fret if you want a more civilized stay: Amelia Island is also known for some of Florida’s most exclusive resorts, golf and dining.
St. Augustine
The Ancient City that is St. Augustine offers walking history lessons of Spanish colonial-era architecture, the oldest wooden schoolhouse, the oldest masonry fort and more discoveries along cobblestone streets. This quiet shoreline is also a lovely beach spot with a public fishing pier, bocce courts, splash park and additional amenities. Florida’s oldest city’s combo of education and recreation makes for a well-rounded escape for all ages.
Florida Panhandle
Highway 30A Corridor
This 24-mile stretch of highway is a collection of super cute beach towns like Rosemary Beach, Seagrove and Alys Beach that rescue families from the chaos. Think morning bike rides to the farmer’s market, afternoons at the beach, sunset strolls to dinner, al fresco of course, and sundae nightcaps at genuine ice cream parlors. Seaside is the Mayberryesque setting for ‘The Truman Show.’ Informed families keep such hideaways a secret, but now you’re in the know and can plan your next storybook vacation!
Whether you end up trading screen time for sea turtles on a spring break trip, discovering history or chilling at home on a staycation of movie marathons, enjoy this time with your kiddos, Mama!
