Florida isn’t just about destinations—it’s also about the journeys between them. With diverse landscapes, waterfront highways, and historic routes, Florida offers some of the most scenic road trips in the country. Here are eight unforgettable drives to add to your bucket list.
1. Overseas Highway (U.S. 1) – Miami to Key West
Distance: ~113 miles
This iconic drive takes you across 42 bridges, including the Seven Mile Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Explore the Florida Keys one by one, stopping for snorkeling, key lime pie, and sunsets in Key West.
2. A1A Coastal Byway – St. Augustine to Daytona Beach
Distance: ~72 miles
Travel along the Atlantic coastline through historic beach towns, lighthouses, and barrier islands. Highlights include St. Augustine’s old city, Fort Matanzas, and Ormond Beach’s scenic dunes.
3. Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) – Miami to Naples
Distance: ~110 miles
This route cuts through Everglades National Park, giving you the chance to spot wildlife, airboat across wetlands, and learn about the native Miccosukee culture.
4. Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway – Ocala National Forest
Distance: ~60–100 miles (depending on route)
Wind through pine forests, crystal-clear springs, and wildlife corridors. Stop at Juniper Springs or Silver Glen Springs for a refreshing swim and picnic.
5. Big Bend Scenic Byway – Tallahassee to Apalachicola
Distance: ~220 miles
Explore Florida’s Forgotten Coast with a mix of coastal marshes, historic fishing towns, and Gulf beaches. This is Old Florida at its best.
6. Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway
Distance: ~233 miles
Running along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, this route offers views of estuaries, wildlife refuges, and small harbor towns. Great for birdwatching and photography.
7. Lake Wales Ridge Scenic Highway
Distance: ~38 miles
Drive through the heart of Central Florida, where you’ll find citrus groves, small farming towns, and beautiful views of rolling hills and lakes.
8. Gulf Coast Scenic Drive – Sarasota to Sanibel Island
Distance: ~100 miles
This beachside drive takes you past Longboat Key, Venice, Fort Myers Beach, and finally Sanibel Island. It’s ideal for sunset chasers and beach hoppers.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s road trips are about more than just getting from point A to B—they’re opportunities to explore nature, culture, history, and local life. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, Florida Radiant encourages you to hit the road and discover the state’s radiant beauty from behind the wheel.