Florida is known as the “Sunshine State” and has always been a popular USA coastal travel destination due to its stunning beaches, many attractions, and vibrant cities.
For anyone visiting, they will find that Florida offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Florida has something for everyone.
In this Florida itinerary with 10 days of epic activities, you’ll be guided through some of the state’s most iconic and must-visit destinations.
Today’s guide is written by Candice from Exploring The Gulf.
As her site name suggests, she and her family have explored the Gulf Coast – which includes Florida – for many years and consider themselves experts on many of the destinations there.
So without further ado, take it away, Candice!
Where is Florida?
Florida is in the southeastern region of the United States.
It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and by the Gulf of Mexico to the west.
It also shares borders with the states of Georgia and Alabama.
Below is an interactive map so that you can see the exact location.
Best time to visit Florida
The best time to visit for ten days in Florida is during the winter and spring months.
The weather is most pleasant and comfortable from November to April.
This will also help you avoid the hot and humid summer conditions that Florida is so infamous for.
However, if you are tied to visiting at another time of year, below is what you can expect by season.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is a great time to visit Florida as the weather starts to cool down slightly from the scorching summer months.
The humidity begins to drop, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
This is also the time when hurricane season is most active, so it’s important to monitor weather forecasts if you plan to visit during this time.
You’ll also benefit from popular events in the fall such as Halloween-themed attractions, harvest festivals, and various outdoor festivals, which can be super fun.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is considered the peak tourist season in Florida, especially for visitors from colder regions seeking warm weather.
The temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
Key attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other theme parks are popular during this time.
Some parts of Florida might experience a slight chill, especially in the northern areas, but overall, it’s still quite comfortable compared to many other parts of the country.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is another popular time to visit Florida due to its comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.
The state’s famous wildflowers and lush vegetation are in full bloom during this time.
Spring break attracts a large number of visitors, particularly college students, so some areas can get crowded.
Major events like the Daytona 500 and various arts and music festivals are held during the spring months.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the hottest and most humid time to visit Florida.
While the weather is quite warm, it can sometimes be uncomfortably hot, especially during the peak of July and August.
This is also the wettest season, with the highest chance of rain and thunderstorms, and it’s the heart of hurricane season.
Despite the weather, many families visit during the summer due to school vacations.
Water parks, beaches, and indoor attractions like museums become popular options to escape the heat, so expect them to be busy if you’re visiting during this time and consider booking well in advance!
Florida Itinerary: 10 Days
Day 1: Discovering Orlando’s theme parks
There is no better place to begin your journey in Florida than with Orlando.
It’s one of the best things to do in Florida and home to the world-famous theme parks of Disneyworld, Universal Studios and SeaWorld.
Although we know you could spend a whole 3-4 days exploring these parks, stick to one to experience on this day.
This way, you will get to spend the day immersing yourself in the magic of these attractions, enjoying thrilling rides, world-class shows, and meeting fun characters or creatures.
- Walt Disney World Resort: This world-famous resort is made up of multiple theme parks, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each park offers a unique experience with attractions, entertainment, and of course, beloved Disney characters.
- Universal Orlando Resort: This is another major theme park complex, it includes Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a major highlight and a personal favourite that offers immersive experiences based on the popular book and film series.
- SeaWorld Orlando: This is a marine-themed park that combines water entertainment with education. You can enjoy animal exhibits, amazing, thrilling rides, and some very cool live shows of marine life, including orcas, dolphins, and sea lions.
Where to stay:
- Budget: Wingate by Wyndham
- Mid-range: Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas
- Luxury: Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Day 2: Take an educational trip to Cape Canaveral
Next up, it’s time to head east to Cape Canaveral and visit the Kennedy Space Center for an educational experience.
Here you can get up close to the iconic Space Shuttle Atlantis, an impressive spacecraft that played a pivotal role in NASA’s missions.
You can also explore the Rocket Garden, which displays a collection of historic launch vehicles and rockets and is a great way to learn about the evolution of space exploration.
They also have a fantastic IMAX Theater that shows some very interesting and captivating space films that you won’t want to miss.
Check prices: Kennedy Space Centre
You can also look beyond the Space Center, for the Canaveral National Seashore, which has some of the best beaches near Orlando.
Aptly named Apollo Beach is a great dog friendly beach in Florida and a great place for surfing, but you can also swim and enjoy the sandy beach there as well.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a hidden gem, then you won’t want to miss a visit to Jetty Park.
This place is a local haven known for its excellent fishing but also a great place for beach relaxation and some spectacular views of rocket launches.
Where to stay:
- Mid-range: Home2 Suites by Hilton
Day 3: Beaches, animal sanctuaries and sunset cruises in Clearwater
Next on your 10 day Florida itinerary, you’ll make your way west to Clearwater.
This is one of our favourite places to visit and is famously known for its stunning clear waters and sunsets.
Here you can have time to relax on the beach or take a sunset cruise, where you can also keep your eyes peeled to spot some dolphins.
Check prices: Clearwater Sunset Cruise
If you don’t want to take any chances, you could also visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to see rescued marine animals.
This facility is not just an ordinary aquarium; it’s a sanctuary for dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and some other marine life.
Here you can get up close to rescued marine animals, all while learning about their conservation efforts and the inspiring stories of these creatures’ journeys to recovery.
Where to stay:
- Budget: Tropical Inn & Suites
- Mid-range: Residence Inn by Marriot
Day 4: Adventure activities in Siesta Key, hunting for shark teeth and wandering the streets of Venice
Continuing your journey south, you’ll discover Siesta Key, a coastal gem where you will want to sink your toes into the sand.
Here you will find that there is no scarcity of activities as you can pretty much take your pick, and this place will deliver.
If you’re the adventurous type, you can try your luck at parasailing, where you will get some of the best panoramic views of Siesta Key’s beauty from above.
Check prices: Parasailing on Siesta Key Island
If you want a more leisurely day, you can take a dip in the water, take some walks along the shoreline, or try some light kayaking.
Check prices: Siesta Key Kayak Tour
No matter the choice, we recommend you bring a nice backpack beach chair so you truly get to relax at the beach.
Before you finish the day, we also recommend heading to the Point of Rocks.
This is a very peculiar place along the Gulf that has some unique rock formations that are perfect for snorkelling.
If you want to gain some time on your trip and get to explore some more, we suggest you stop by the nearby city of Venice.
This is a destination where you can unwind, explore local art, and savour the flavours of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Venice Beach is also famous for “shark teeth hunting.”
If you have some little ones coming along with you on this adventure, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to search for prehistoric fossils along the shoreline.
You can also choose to explore Historic Downtown Venice.
This charming area is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and local eateries.
The architecture here is reminiscent of Italy, something we found to be both inviting and quaint.
Where to stay:
- Mid-range: Twin Palms at Siesta
- Luxury: The Sea Spray Resort
Day 5: Unraveil the wonder of Fort Myers and Sanibel and Captiva Islands
A little further South, you will find another place filled with wonder and amazement in the form of two brilliant minds.
In Fort Myers, you can explore the Edison and Ford Winter Estates and learn more about these inventors’ lives and innovations.
You will get to walk through the beautifully preserved homes, gardens, laboratories, and museum that showcases their innovative spirits.
You should also venture into the heart of Fort Myers and enjoy the Downtown River District.
Here, you can walk along the Caloosahatchee River, where you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants along the waterfront.
If you are into shelling: the art of finding conches, sand dollars, and other types of shells, make sure you take a shelling tour in the area.
Nearby Sanibel & Captiva Islands are famous for their exceptional shelling opportunities.
The unique geographical orientation of these islands allows them to collect a diverse array of seashells that wash up on their shores.
Check prices: Fort Myers Shelling Excursion
Where to stay:
- Budget: Americas Best Value Inn
- Mid-rang: Crown Plaza Hotel
- Luxury: Luminary Hotel & Co
Day 6: Enjoy a day of luxury in Naples or go on an adventure to Marco Island
For this day, you can choose between a day filled with luxury in Naples or a more relaxed day at Marco Island.
Naples, Florida, is a more refined coastal getaway.
If you choose to stay here, you can start your day by enjoying breakfast and a stroll along the Naples Pier, where you can take in the Gulf views.
The historic Third Street South district is a fun place to explore as it is filled with boutique shops and galleries.
Afterwards, we suggest you check out the Naples Botanical Garden.
It is simply beautiful, and it showcases diverse gardens from around the world.
If it’s in your budget, you can head do some upscale shopping at The Waterside Shops and finish your day with some sunset-watching at the beach.
A fun way to get around and get to see what Naples is about is with an electric trike tour!
Check prices: Electric Bike Tour
Your second option is heading over to Marco Island.
Known for its relaxing beachfront atmosphere, this will be a tranquil day for you.
You can also start your day with breakfast overlooking the Gulf.
Next, you can visit Tigertail Beach and enjoy a range of water activities or just enjoy and relax.
Make sure you go eat a delicious fresh seafood lunch by the shore.
Head over to Marco Prime Steak & Seafood Restaurant, our top recommendation for food on the island.
This restaurant truly lives up to its name, it offers a delicious blend of surf and turf.
You can also take a fun and educational boat tour that will give you more insight into the unique ecosystems of this area.
Check prices: Marco Island Boat Tour
Where to stay:
- Budget: Naples Park Central Hotel
- Mid-rang: Hawthorn Suites
- Luxury: Hilton Naples
Day 7: Discover ‘The Venice of America’ in Fort Lauderdale
Once you travel to Fort Lauderdale, you will quickly realize why it has earned the nickname “The Venice of America“.
The city showcases a unique and captivating charm through an intricate web of boating canals that wind their way through its neighbourhoods.
These waterways are more than just picturesque scenes—they form a fundamental aspect of the city’s very essence and character.
While many coastal cities offer picturesque beaches, Fort Lauderdale stands out for its blend of urban atmosphere and natural beauty.
Make sure you head over to Las Olas Boulevard, where you will find an array of boutiques, art galleries, sidewalk cafes, and other entertainment options.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk that winds along the New River.
The Riverwalk has some of the most captivating views of the city’s skyline, yachts, and historic sites.
You might also want to consider taking a sightseeing cruise of the area that will delve more deeply into the history and charm of this city.
Check prices: Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise
Where to stay:
- Budget: Oasis Hotel
- Mid-rang: Coconut Bay Resort
- Luxury: Hotel Maron by Marriot
Day 8 Immerse yourself in the Latin American culture in Miami
You will want to prepare to take in and experience the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
This unique coastal metropolis bleeds with Latin American culture and artistic creativity and has an upbeat urban atmosphere.
Miami is well known for its dynamic neighbourhoods, so prepare to have a fun time in this city.
Make sure you take the time to explore the colourful streets of Little Havana, where we recommend you take a food tour so you can truly savour what this place has to offer.
Check prices: Little Havana Food Tour
Make sure you stop for a Cuban sandwich at the Versailles Restaurant, an iconic eatery in Little Havana.
If you head over to the glamorous shores of South Beach, Miami offers an array of experiences that celebrate its unique blend of influences.
Miami is also notoriously known for having great nightlife, so make sure you take a break during the day so you can fully enjoy yourself at night.
Where to stay:
- Budget: Eurostars Langford
- Mid-rang: YOTELPAD Miami
- Luxury: The Elser Hotel
Day 9: Witness the impressive eco-system in Everglades National Park
Your 10 day Florida itinerary would not be complete without embarking on an adventure to the Everglades National Park.
The Everglades encompasses a wide range of habitats, including sawgrass prairies, cypress swamps, mangrove forests, and estuarine environments.
It is often referred to as a “river of grass” due to the shallow, slow-moving water that characterizes much of the area.
Here you can take an airboat tour to witness the unique ecosystem of the Everglades, home to alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
Check prices: Everglades Adventure
There is also the Big Cypress National Preserve that offers a quieter alternative to the Everglades.
Day 10: Stroll to the unique sites in next in Key West
Your last stop will be at Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S.
Key West is also famously known for its laid-back vibe, so make sure you take advantage of this on your last day in Florida.
However, there are still tonnes of things to do in Key West if you prefer to be more active.
Here you can explore Duval Street or visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Duval Street is known as the heart of Key West’s nightlife and entertainment.
You can take your pick and explore one of its lively bars, restaurants, art galleries, and shops.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is the former residence of the legendary author.
The museum is amazing, and it will offer insights into his life and work.
Fun fact – the museum is famous for its large population of “Hemingway cats” – many of which are polydactyl (six-toed).
The cats are all descendants of Hemingway’s cats.
Lastly, you cannot leave without visiting the Southernmost Point Buoy, which marks the southernmost point of the continental United States.
This is a popular photo spot, and you’ll often see a line of people waiting for their picture, so make sure you arrive early.
There wouldn’t be a “key” in Key West without some “key” lime pie.
Head over to Blue Heaven, which is renowned for serving one of the best Key lime pies in Key West.
You’ll not only love the pie here but the restaurant’s outdoor seating and historic ambience add to the overall experience.
Where to stay:
- Mid-rang: The Palms Hotel
- Luxury: Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages
What to do if you have more than 10 days in Florida
If you have more than ten days in Florida, then there are plenty of additional places to discover.
We suggest that you consider extending your trip to include the cities of Destin and Pensacola, both of which offer unique experiences that will enrich your Florida adventure.
Destin
Renowned for its stunning emerald-green waters and powdery white sands, Destin is a beachgoer’s paradise.
Here you can enjoy a variety of water activities, from snorkelling and deep-sea fishing to boating, visiting Crab Island, and paddleboarding.
But we believe that Destin’s charm extends beyond the beaches.
In this beautiful town, you can explore its vibrant harbour, eat some delicious seafood, and even set out on a dolphin-watching cruise.
Check prices: Dolphin-watching Tour
Pensacola
Further west is Pensacola, a city that is rich in history and culture.
Here you can explore the Pensacola Historic District, with its colonial-era architecture and cobblestone streets.
The city’s National Naval Aviation Museum is also a great palace to visit here as a family.
Are 10 days long enough in Florida?
Ten days will allow you to experience many of Florida’s best highlights.
However, the state is huge, and it offers a plethora of attractions and destinations.
If you have the time, extending your stay will provide you with the opportunity to explore more of what Florida has to offer.
How to travel around Florida for 10 days
By car
Needless to say that the best way to follow this itinerary is by car, since it will give you the most flexibility to explore on your own timeline.
Plus, it’s going to be much faster overall than any other method of transport since the state has an extensive network of highways and roads that connect major cities and attractions.
That being said, you’ll definitely want to keep in mind that traffic can be congested in certain urban areas, especially during peak tourist seasons.
If you need to rent a car, then I’d recommend using a platform like Rentalcars.com.
They’re my go-to platform for rental cars as they’re reputable and combine all of the best deals on the market to ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
By public transport
There are many different types of public transport across Florida.
Here are some to consider using:
- Intercity Buses: Intercity bus services like Greyhound and Megabus offer affordable transportation between major cities and regions in Florida.
- Local Transportation: Many cities in Florida have public transportation systems, including buses, trolleys, and light rail. Cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa have relatively.
- Train (Amtrak): Amtrak operates several train routes within Florida, such as the Silver Meteor and Silver Star routes that connect cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. While train travel can be scenic and relaxing, it might not be the fastest option for getting around the state.
Explore beyond Florida
This Florida itinerary of 10 days offers a well-rounded experience of the state’s most iconic destinations, but if you’re looking to explore the USA further then why not head over to Hawaii and follow this Oahu itinerary with 5 days of recommended activities from a local, or for something more specific, this Honolulu 5 day itinerary is also great.
Alternatively, you could check out Mexico.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway in Cancun, something more rustic like Tulum, or an adventure-packed holiday in Cabo San Lucas, there is something for everyone.
Stay Wild Travels.
Disclosure: just a heads up that some of the links within this post may be affiliated. This means that Stay Wild Travels may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Hopefully, if you’ve been here a while, you know that we only recommend things that we truly believe in. If you use any of these links, it really helps support us to keep bringing you free content – so thank you!
About our author: Candice and Coltin, the creative minds behind Exploring The Gulf, are a dynamic duo with a shared passion for adventure. As a published author and travel enthusiast, Candice’s love for exploration and cultural immersion is evident in her storytelling. Coltin’s photography skills and real estate background complement their journey to capture the essence of diverse destinations, while their family of five brings a sense of wonder to their journey of discovery and captivating storytelling.
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