Florida boasts some of the most scenic road trip routes in the USA, and traveling from Jacksonville to Miami offers the perfect opportunity to explore the Sunshine State’s stunning west coast. Along this route, you’ll encounter breathtaking beaches, charming coastal towns, and fascinating nature parks. This road trip guide will walk you through the most beautiful stops along the way, offering valuable insights into must-see attractions, recommending top-notch restaurants, and suggesting cozy accommodations. Depending on how long you’d like to linger at each stop, you can adjust your itinerary for a leisurely or more fast-paced journey.

• Day 1: Jacksonville
• Day 2: Crystal River
• Day 3: Tampa
• Day 4: Sarasota
• Day 5: Fort Myers
• Day 6: Naples/Everglades
• Day 7: Miami

Day 1: Jacksonville → Crystal River (Approx. 3.5 hours drive)

Your adventure begins in Jacksonville, but your first stop is further south at Crystal River. Along the way, make sure to detour to Cedar Key, a picturesque fishing village known for its laid-back atmosphere and delectable seafood. Enjoy fresh oysters by the water and immerse yourself in the tranquil island life.

In Crystal River, you’ll experience one of the trip’s highlights: swimming with manatees. These gentle giants gather in the warm waters of the “Three Sisters Springs” during the winter months, offering a rare opportunity to get up close. If you prefer to stay on land, the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park provides an excellent view of Florida’s diverse wildlife.

Travel Tip: Crystal River, Florida – A Paradise for Nature Lovers and Manatee Enthusiasts

Other Highlights Between Jacksonville and Crystal River:

• 🌸 Gainesville – Home to the University of Florida, with its botanical gardens and historic districts.
• 🤿 Devil’s Den – A unique underground spring, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Dining and Drinks in Crystal River and Surroundings:

• 🐟 Seafood Seller & Café (Crystal River) – Famous for its Cajun-inspired fish dishes.
• 🍽️ The Freezer Tiki Bar (Homosassa) – A rustic bar offering the best steamed shrimp in the region.

Accommodation in Crystal River:

• 🏨 PaddleTail Waterfront Lodge – A cozy hotel with modern amenities located near the kayak rental.

Day 2: Crystal River → Tampa/St. Petersburg (Approx. 2 hours drive)

After a restful night, continue your journey south. Your first stop of the day is Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its spectacular mermaid shows. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also kayak through crystal-clear waters, where you might spot turtles and otters.

Arriving in Tampa, don’t miss a visit to Clearwater Beach. With its fine white sand and turquoise waters, this beach is one of Florida’s finest.

Other Highlights Between Crystal River and Tampa:

• ⚓ Tarpon Springs – Famous for its Greek influence and sponge-diving tradition, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s maritime history.
• 🏖️ Honeymoon Island State Park – A stunning natural paradise with breathtaking beaches.
• 🎨 Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg) – Home to the largest collection of works by surrealist Salvador Dalí outside of Europe.
• 🏖️ Pass-a-Grille Beach (St. Petersburg) – A quiet stretch of beach far from the tourist crowds.
• 🌸 Sunken Gardens (St. Petersburg) – A 100-year-old botanical oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for nature lovers.

Travel Tip: From Sunrise to Sunset: The Ultimate St. Petersburg, FL Guide

Dining and Drinks:

• 🥘 Columbia Restaurant (Tampa) – Florida’s oldest Spanish restaurant, famous for its authentic paella.
• 🐟 Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille (St. Pete) – Located on the pier, this restaurant serves delicious Caribbean-inspired dishes and fresh seafood.

Accommodation:

• 🏨 Hampton Inn & Suites (Tampa) – Modern, stylish, and centrally located.

Day 3: Tampa → Sarasota (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)

After a refreshing night in Tampa, start your day with a delicious breakfast at the charming Oxford Exchange. Energized, head out for a leisurely walk along the Tampa Riverwalk, enjoying views of the city’s skyline and the fresh morning air.

Organise your time in Tampa with my Travel Guide: A Perfect Day in Tampa, Florida: Sun, Adventure, and Culinary Delights

En route to Sarasota, consider a stop at the Manatee Viewing Center, where you can get a rare close-up view of these gentle creatures.

Other Highlights Between Tampa and Sarasota:

• 🏖️ Egmont Key State Park – A small island with historical ruins and fantastic beaches.
• 🌉 Sunshine Skyway Bridge – Offering breathtaking views of Tampa Bay.
• 🥾 Emerson Point Preserve – A peaceful nature park with hiking trails and spectacular views of the bay.

Dining and Drinks Along the Way:

• 🐟 The Fish House (Ruskin) – A cozy, family-owned restaurant known for its fresh seafood and local charm.
• 🍽️ The Cottage (Sarasota) – A charming restaurant offering fresh seafood in a cozy setting.

Accommodation in Sarasota:

• 🏨 Lido Beach Resort (Lido Key) – A perfect retreat to unwind, with stunning sunset views and the sound of waves.

Day 4: Sarasota → Fort Myers (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)

Begin your day at the pristine Siesta Key Beach, where soft, white sands and turquoise waters create the perfect setting for a morning stroll or swim. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Old Salty Dog, with fresh fish and chips overlooking Sarasota Bay.

Other Highlights Between Sarasota and Fort Myers:

• 🥾 Myakka River State Park – A vast nature park with wildlife, hiking trails, and boat tours along the river.
• 🥾 T. Mabry Carlton Reserve – A peaceful nature preserve ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.
• 🥾 Lover’s Key State Park – A beautiful park with pristine beaches and scenic trails.

Dining and Drinks:

• 🍔 Ford’s Garage – A rustic, cozy restaurant located in a former garage, serving delicious burgers and regional specialties.
• 🍽️ The Veranda – A sophisticated restaurant serving elevated American cuisine with a Southern touch.

Accommodation in Fort Myers:

• 🏨 Hampton Inn & Suites – Comfortable, modern rooms with convenient access to Fort Myers’ attractions.

Day 5: Fort Myers → Naples (Approx. 1 hour drive)

Your next destination is Naples, one of Florida’s most elegant cities, known for its stunning beaches and high-end shopping along Fifth Avenue South. Take a leisurely walk through the chic boutiques or spend the afternoon at Naples Pier, one of the best places to spot dolphins.

Travel Tips: Naples, Florida: A Dream Day of Beaches, Nature, and Indulgence

Other Highlights Between Fort Myers and Naples:

• 🥾 Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary – A vast nature reserve with mysterious swamp landscapes and expansive hiking trails.
• 🥾 Koreshan State Park – A historical park showcasing the former Koreshan Unity Colony with well-preserved buildings and scenic trails.
• 🏖️ Barefoot Beach Preserve – An untouched beach with excellent trails and natural beauty.
• 🏖️ Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park – A stunning beach with a peaceful atmosphere.

Dining and Drinks in Naples:

• 🐟 The Dock at Crayton Cove – Fresh seafood right on the water.
• 🍽️ The Bevy – A modern, lively restaurant serving creative, seasonal dishes.

Accommodation in Naples:

• 🏨 Cove Inn On Naples Bay – A relaxed waterfront hotel with comfortable rooms and a laid-back vibe.

Day 6: Naples → Everglades → Miami (Approx. 3 hours drive)

Continue your journey to Everglades National Park, where you can embark on a hike or kayak tour to discover the park’s unique wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and rare bird species.

Travel Tip: Everglades National Park Guide: Discover Wilderness & Adventure

Other Highlights Between Naples and Miami:

• 🏖️ Marco Island – A peaceful island with beautiful beaches and excellent water sports opportunities.
• 🐊 Everglades City – A charming, historic town on the edge of the Everglades, known for its boat tours and fresh seafood.
• 🐊 Big Cypress National Preserve – Wilderness at its finest, with mangroves and alligators.
• ⛲ Coral Gables – An elegant Miami suburb known for its Mediterranean-style architecture.

Dining and Drinks Along the Way:

• 🌮 Camellia Street Grill (Everglades City) – A rustic eatery serving local specialties, including alligator tacos.
• 🥪 Versailles Restaurant (Miami) – A legendary Cuban restaurant known for its iconic sandwiches.

Accommodation in Miami:

• 🏨 The Betsy Hotel (South Beach) – A chic boutique hotel located on Ocean Drive.
• 🏨 East Miami – Perfect for a modern luxury experience in the Brickell district.

Day 7: Miami

Spend your final road trip day in Miami, Florida’s vibrant metropolis. Relax at the famous South Beach, explore the colorful Wynwood Arts District, or soak up the Cuban flair in Little Havana.

Our conclusion: This itinerary provides you with one to two thrilling weeks along Florida’s west coast, giving you an authentic experience of the Sunshine State. From the breathtaking beaches to the untouched state parks and historic sites, Florida’s diversity will leave you in awe.

Which stop along the Florida West Coast are you most excited about?

Extend your stay in Miami or venture to the Florida Keys. For more planning inspiration, check out our guides: 48 Hours in Miami – The Perfect Weekend in the Magic City and Dream Vacation in the Florida Keys – A Guide to Sun, Sand, and Caribbean Vibes.