Amelia Island
With 13 miles of breathtaking beaches, profuse native wildlife and pristine waters, this barrier island is easy to reach but hard to forget. This part of the Sea Islands chain has a history of Spanish, French, British and American rule and was named after Princess Amelia, the daughter of King George II. It is now a popular destination due to its luxurious resorts, bed and breakfasts, golf courses and spas. This tranquil atmosphere provides the relaxation needed to disconnect from the busyness of life.
Clearwater Beach
A gorgeous beach and stretches of soft, white sand are what make visiting this spot along the Gulf of Mexico a must. Pier 60 offers a variety of shopping, restaurants, live entertainment, local artisans and children’s activities. The Beach Walk is a great spot for fishing, with bicycle racks and boating activities, parasailing, a curving sidewalk for strolling and a bustling nightlife scene. With high-end hotels and condos, a paved bicycle trail lined by mangrove trees and Clearwater Marine Aquarium close by, there are plenty of options for accommodations and entertainment. Venturing to the west central coast of Florida to the 2019 best beach in the United States and the sixth-best in the world will delight any couple or family looking for a short getaway.
Key Largo
Leave your cares behind as you arrive at the first key in paradise. A short drive from the mainland leads to a whole new world. Key Largo is surrounded by the warm waters of Florida Bay, the Florida Straits, the Atlantic Ocean and the only living coral reef system in the United States. This is an outdoor and water lover’s dream come true: deep sea fishing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, boat tours, the first underwater marine park and national parks. This tropical and charming destination offers glass-bottom boat tours; local artists’ creations at the Gallery of Kona Kai; an interactive exhibit that explores the history of pirates in the Keys; the paved Overseas Heritage Trail to explore the island(s) without a car; and a once-in-a-lifetime accommodation at Jules’ Undersea Lodge, a hotel located 30 feet below the water’s surface.
Mount Dora
Situated north of Orlando in the heart of Central Florida, this city is known for its small-town charm. From staying in a quaint bed and breakfast to taking a flightseeing tour in a seaplane, Mount Dora is an unforgettable experience. The downtown area overlooks Lake Dora and is home to one of three freshwater lighthouses in Florida. It is known as the “Festival City” as it hosts many festivals every month. With multiple museums including the Mount Dora Museum of Speed and the Mount Dora Center for the Arts, many antique shops, live entertainment, the Royal Palm Railway Experience, several parks and nature preserves, and The Dora Canal, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
Santa Rosa Beach
Santa Rosa Beach will work its magic on you from the moment you sink your toes into the sugar sand beach and allow the turquoise waters to wash over your feet. This distinct beach neighborhood with its own tradition, charm and visual style is nestled along Florida’s Emerald Coast. Cruise around town on an Emerald Coast Pedal Tour, shop local boutiques, capture gorgeous photos at the Coastal Dune Lakes, bike along the Timpoochee Trail, relax with a soothing massage or facial, or meander through a local festival during your stay. Showcasing luxury beach houses, upscale dining and a unique artist colony, this lively coastal destination will thrill anyone.
St. Augustine
Known as the Ancient City, St. Augustine is full of rich history and unique scenery. Being the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine boasts cobblestone streets, quaint cafes and bars, charming bed and breakfasts, and talented local artisans. An additional treasure is the experience of both watching the sun rise over the Atlantic and set along the Intracoastal Waterway. St. Augustine has it all: historic sites, museums, pristine beaches, swashbuckling adventures, bookish experiences, festivals, live entertainment, farmers’ markets and more!