What You Must Know: A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Florida (Updated 09/09/2024)

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Planning a trip to Florida? Or just want to know if Florida is for you? The Sunshine State offers enchanting landscapes, vibrant communities, and endless adventures.

This comprehensive guide was created after our recent 1-month and 10-day journey through Florida. This is all you need to know before planning to visit Florida.

These tips, from weather and transportation to historic landmarks, would have been a great help in planning our trip.

Whether you are interested in having encounters with the gentle manatees and famous alligators that call Florida home or to enjoy the tranquil springs and the winding rivers, we did the research and experienced most of these first-hand so you can make the most of your time in Florida.

Get ready for a great adventure and experience the magic of Florida’s year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture.

There’s so much information in this guide. Make sure to save, pin, and share this article with anyone who’s interested in learning about Florida.

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Let’s understand the regions first.

Guide to Florida: Understanding the Regions

It’s essential to understand the different regions that make up the state. While there are many ways to divide Florida into regions, we’ll focus on four main areas: the Panhandle, North Florida, Central Florida, and South Florida.

1. The Panhandle:

Located in the northwest corner of the state, the Panhandle is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, charming coastal towns, and laid-back atmosphere. Popular destinations in this region include Pensacola, Panama City Beach, and Destin, where you can enjoy water sports and relax by the Gulf of Mexico.

2. North Florida:

Stretching from the Panhandle to the northeastern part of the state, North Florida is characterized by its lush forests, natural springs, and historic sites. Jacksonville, the largest city in the region, offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities, while towns like St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, provide a glimpse into Florida’s rich history.

3. Central Florida:

Known as the heart of the state, Central Florida is home to Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, as well as other major attractions like Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. Beyond the theme parks, this region also offers great outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and vibrant nightlife.

4. South Florida:

Comprising the south portion of the state, South Florida is a melting pot of cultures, with cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach known for their vibrant art scenes, world-class dining, and beautiful beaches. The Florida Keys, a string of tropical islands stretching south from Miami, offer a laid-back island vibe and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and other outdoor adventures.

While these four regions provide a broad overview of Florida’s diversity, there are many other ways to divide the state, and various organizations and agencies may use different classifications.

Weather and Climate

Florida boasts a subtropical climate characterized by warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and occasional rain showers throughout the year. Planning your adventures in Florida requires an understanding of the weather patterns to ensure a comfortable experience on the road.

1. Warm Temperatures:

• Overall, Florida is known for its warm climate. It’s temperatures typically range from mild to hot year-round, with average highs ranging from the 70s°F (20s°C) in the winter to the 90s°F (30s°C) in the summer.

2. Occasional Rain Showers and Thunderstorms:

• Florida experiences rain showers and thunderstorms, especially during the summer months. Rain showers are typically brief but intense, followed by clear skies. On the other hand, thunderstorms can last for hours, are typically more intense than rain showers, and can bring not only heavy rainfall but also lightning, thunder, gusty winds, and occasionally hail.

3. Hurricane Season:

• The hurricane season in Florida runs from June through November, with the peak occurring from August to October. While hurricanes are infrequent, staying informed about weather forecasts and having an evacuation plan in place if necessary is important.

• We use WunderGround app to monitor weather updates while we are on the road. Here’s a blog where I share the essential apps we use as full-time van lifers.

4. Humidity and Heat Index:

• Florida’s high humidity levels can make temperatures feel much hotter than they actually are, especially during the summer months. Some may describe the feeling of being hard to breathe on hot days due to the heat and humidity.

5. Winter Weather:

• While Florida is known for its warm climate, winter temperatures can occasionally dip, especially in the northern part of the state.
• In northern parts of the state, particularly in Panhandle and north Florida, temperatures in the winter months typically range from the 30s°F to 50s°F (around 0°C to 10°C) for highs and can occasionally dip into the 20s°F (below 0°C) or even teens°F (around -10°C) for lows during particularly cold spells.
• In central and southern Florida, including cities like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami, winter temperatures are milder compared to the northern regions. Daytime highs generally range from the 60s°F to the 70s°F (around 15°C to 25°C), with nighttime lows typically staying above freezing, although temperatures in the 40s°F to 50s°F (around 5°C to 15°C) are not uncommon.

Seasonal Considerations

Florida’s seasonal variation is different for each individual. It depends on your interests and destinations. Your activity interest dictates the peak and off-peak seasons for you. This, in turn, impacts the crowds and the overall experience.

1. Peak Tourist Seasons:

• Florida experiences peak tourist seasons during the winter months and spring break. These periods, typically from December to April, see an influx of visitors from around the world, leading to crowded attractions, higher accommodation rates, and increased traffic on the roads.

2. Off-Peak Times:

• Conversely, off-peak times in Florida, such as late spring, summer, and early fall, may offer fewer crowds, shorter lines at attractions, and potentially lower accommodation rates. This also depends on destinations, as I explain further below.

3. Beach Visitation Patterns:

• Visitors from colder climates often choose to visit Florida’s beaches during the cooler months, particularly in the winter, to escape the cold weather back home and enjoy milder temperatures.
• On the other hand, Floridians, who are more accustomed to the state’s warmer climate, may be more inclined to visit the beach during the warmer months when temperatures are more conducive to swimming, sunbathing, scuba diving, and outdoor activities.

4. Peak Season for Springs:

Florida natural springs are discussed in more detail in the “Natural Wonders” section below. We’ll discuss the season here.

• Peak season for visiting springs in Florida typically occurs during the warmer months of the year, particularly during the spring and summer seasons. The warmer temperatures highlight water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and tubing. Popular springs may experience large crowds and limited parking availability, including the possibility of turning people away when the park is at full capacity.

5. Other Key Seasonal Considerations:

Florida’s diverse calendar of events includes numerous festivals throughout the year, offering a wide range of cultural, culinary, and artistic experiences. These festivals influence factors such as crowds, traffic, accommodation availability, area, and business closures. From the Gasparilla Festival in the winter and springtime flower festivals to summer music events and the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in the fall, there’s always something happening in Florida. So make sure to check local calendars before planning your trip.

Transportation

Getting around Florida requires consideration of transportation options. Here are some tips for navigating the state:

1. Driving:

Driving offers the flexibility to explore Florida at your own pace, with the freedom to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems. Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with essentials like a reliable GPS, spare tire, and emergency kit.

Toll Roads, bridges, and SunPass

Driving on Florida’s extensive highway network often involves traveling on toll roads and bridges. These toll roads play a crucial role in connecting various regions of the state as well as in heavily populated urban areas. Streamline your travels in Florida by understanding and using tools like SunPass.

SunPass electronic tolling for a cheaper trip:

• SunPass is Florida’s electronic toll collection system, offering a convenient and efficient way to pay tolls. With a SunPass transponder affixed to your vehicle’s windshield, tolls are automatically deducted from your prepaid account as you pass through tolling points.
• SunPass users enjoy discounted toll rates compared to cash payments. Additionally, SunPass works on all toll roads and bridges in Florida.
• Sometimes, we can avoid the toll by driving a few minutes longer and seeing more of the local neighborhoods. But there are times when there’s no other way than to get on a toll bridge. This is when SunPass comes in handy.

Obtaining a SunPass:

• SunPass transponders can be purchased online, at retail locations, or at select service centers throughout Florida. We got ours at a popular supermarket, Publix, in Florida, after researching online. Here’s a link to find where you can purchase your transponder. in Florida. If you would like to order online, the website says it will be mailed to you within 5-7 business days.
• Transponders are available in two forms: mini and pro. Mini is a sticker to be affixed to the windshield and is not movable from one car to another.  Pro is movable. It is a rectangle transponder with suction cups for your windshield. Another difference is that Pro also works in additional states where E-ZPass is accepted, such as Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia. If you plan on going to any of these states in the future, Pro Transponder can make future trips easier when a toll is a must.

• Once obtained, users can activate and manage their SunPass account online, add funds, and monitor toll transactions conveniently from their computer or mobile device. I used my phone, activated the transponder, and added a minimum fund of $10, and it lasted us the whole Florida trip with $3 to spare.

• An additional benefit of SunPass is that it can be backdated. For example, if you went through a toll bridge 3 days prior to purchasing a transponder, you can set up and fund the SunPass and backdate the starting date to 5 days ago. It never expires, but you must set a start date. I thought this was a very kind gesture from Florida.

Parking:

There seems to be a price tag for everything in Florida. Parking is no exception. In most cities, parking is metered or pay by app. It is possible to find free parking a few blocks away from the crowd if you are willing to walk. It is just about driving further away and reading the street parking signs. We never paid for parking on our trip through Florida, but we do enjoy walking around neighborhoods to see all the architectural styles each town has to offer. One of the free essential apps we use as van lifers, iOverlander, can also be a great tool for finding free parking.

2. Public Transportation:

Major cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa offer public transportation options such as buses, trains, and trolleys for getting around urban areas. Consider using public transit to avoid traffic congestion and parking hassles, especially in busy downtown areas.

3. Ride-Sharing Services:

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in most urban and suburban areas of Florida, providing convenient and affordable transportation options for short-distance trips or your nightlife adventures.

4. Biking and Walking:

Many cities and towns in Florida are bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and trails for cyclists. Consider renting a bike or exploring on foot to enjoy a more leisurely and eco-friendly way of getting around, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas like beachfront promenades and downtown districts.

Accommodations for Van Lifers

Traditional lodging accommodations are plentiful in every corner of Florida and can be easily found online. I will dedicate this section to vanlife accommodations.

Our accommodations for the Florida trip are always conveniently found and always free!

In Florida, vanlifers have the luxury of choosing from a plethora of options tailored to their lifestyle. Whether it’s camping under the stars, parking at designated RV sites, or exploring alternative arrangements, the Sunshine State offers a wealth of choices to suit every preference and budget.

Here are some options to consider:

1. Campgrounds and RV Parks:

• Florida has numerous campgrounds and RV parks situated in scenic locations across the state. From state parks and national forests to private campgrounds, vanlifers have plenty of options for fee camping overnight. There are campsites that offer facilities such as restrooms, showers, picnic areas, full hookups, laundry facilities, swimming pools, and organized activities. Many park campsites also feature amenities like hiking trails and beach access.

2. Boondocking:

• Vanlifers looking to save on accommodation costs, like us, can take advantage of free overnight parking options available throughout Florida.

While traditional free camping, boondocking opportunities may be limited in some areas, you can always find places. Sometimes this means driving another 20 minutes before stopping for the night.

For our trip through Florida, we boondocked every night for free. And the only tool we used was the free iOverlander app, an essential app for vanlife, to find these locations.

3. Dispersed Camping:

• Florida’s state and national forests offer vanlifers the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while camping amidst towering trees and pristine wilderness. It is known as dispersed camping. Many forest areas provide designated camping areas with basic amenities such as fire rings and pit toilets.
• Popular national forests for dispersed camping include Ocala National Forest, Apalachicola National Forest, and Osceola National Forest. These forests also offer a range of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

4. Beachside Camping:

• For vanlifers seeking a beachfront camping experience, Florida’s coastline offers several opportunities for beachside camping. While traditional beach camping may be limited due to regulations and permit requirements, some parks and recreational areas provide designated beach camping sites.
• Parks like Anastasia State Park, Grayton Beach State Park, and Cayo Costa State Park offer beachside campsites with stunning ocean views and direct access to the beach. Advanced reservations are often required, especially during peak seasons.

As you explore these stunning beachside campsites, you’ll discover Florida’s natural beauty firsthand. It’s time now to briefly visit some of the state’s awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Natural Wonders

Florida has a diverse landscape, from lush forests and winding rivers to pristine beaches and crystal-clear springs. These natural wonders are essential stops when exploring the Sunshine State. Below is a condensed list of some of Florida’s unique natural wonders. You can read more about each natural wonder and our experiences here.

Florida’s most iconic natural attractions:

1. Everglades National Park: Spanning over 1.5 million acres, the Everglades is a unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife like alligators and manatees. Enjoy free ranger-guided tours to explore its beauty.
2. Florida Springs: Crystal: clear springs with a consistent 68–72 degree temperature offer amazing opportunities for swimming, kayaking, or just photo-op. Don’t miss Kelly Park Rock Spring in central Florida for a refreshing dip.
3. White Sand Beaches: 99% quartz creates sugar-white powdery sand. Experience it in person along the Panhandle Gulf region.
4. Dry Tortugas National Park: Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this remote park boasts historic forts and vibrant coral reefs.
5. Big Cypress National Preserve: Paddle through mangrove tunnels and spot wildlife like alligators and panthers in this vast wilderness for an unforgettable experience.
6. Apalachicola National Forest: Explore trails and enjoy outdoor activities like camping and birdwatching in this expansive forest. I suggest visiting the forest in the spring or summer, when you can see the full potential of the forest. Our winter visit was full of leafless trees.
7. Coastal Dune Lakes: Discover rare coastal dune lakes along the Gulf Coast, perfect for kayaking and birdwatching.
8. Barrier Islands: These natural formations protect the mainland from erosion and storms while offering recreational opportunities like sunbathing and birdwatching.

The ecosystems and landscapes truly make the Sunshine State unique. Each of these destinations offers its own beauty and ecological significance.

Now, let’s briefly visit the diverse and abundant wildlife encounters everyone’s eager for.

Wildlife Encounters

1. Encounter gentle manatees at Blue Spring State Park during the winter months for a unique snorkeling experience. Or observe them at Tarpon Bayou while enjoying Greek culture.
2. Cruise Sarasota Bay for playful dolphins in their natural habitat, enjoying their acrobatic displays.
3. Explore birding hotspots like Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, home to over 500 bird species.
4. Spot ancient alligators in the Everglades or Big Cypress National Preserve, observing their behavior in diverse habitats.
5. Witness sea turtle nesting at beaches such as Melbourne Beach, contributing to their conservation efforts.
6. Get up close to rescued wildlife at sanctuaries like Mote Marine Laboratory, learning about Florida’s conservation efforts.
7. Discover nocturnal creatures on guided night tours to experience Florida’s wildlife after dark.
8. Immerse in the magical glow of bioluminescence on nighttime kayak tours, marveling at nature’s light show in Florida’s coastal waters.

Here’s a post detailing our personal encounters and our experiences.

From wildlife encounters, let’s transition to human encounters and cultures, where diverse cultures are abundant.

Local Culture and Etiquette Guide

Exploring Florida isn’t just about its natural beauty; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Here are some tips for navigating local customs and etiquette in the Sunshine State:

1. Respect for Nature:

Floridians take great pride in their natural surroundings, so make sure to respect the environment by properly disposing of trash, staying on designated trails, and avoiding activities that may harm wildlife or delicate ecosystems.

Overall, Florida is one of the cleanest states we’ve been to. This really demonstrates their respect for the environment.

2. Southern Hospitality:

In Florida, hospitality is a way of life. Expect locals to greet you warmly, offer friendly smiles, and show genuine hospitality.

3. Dress Code:

Florida’s casual and laid-back atmosphere means that you can dress comfortably for most occasions. However, if you plan to visit upscale restaurants, theaters, or cultural venues, it’s advisable to dress appropriately and avoid overly casual attire.

4. Tipping Culture:

Tipping is customary in Florida, especially in restaurants, bars, and for services like taxis and tour guides. Standard tipping rates typically range from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Some establishments may add a percentage for tip on your bill, so make sure to read it carefully to avoid double tipping.

5. Driving Etiquette:

Florida’s roads can be busy, especially in urban areas. Practice patience, courtesy, and defensive driving techniques. Follow traffic laws (even if others don’t!), use turn signals when changing lanes, and yield to pedestrians and cyclists.

It was in Miami and surrounding areas where we encountered at least twice dangerous drivers that could have caused an accident. My advice is to be extra careful when driving in and around Miami.

6. Cultural Diversity:

Florida is known for its diverse population, with people from various ethnic backgrounds and cultures. Embrace and respect the cultural diversity you encounter, whether it’s through cuisine, music, art, or traditions.

Don’t miss out on the culinary delights that reflect this diversity. During our visit, we had the pleasure of indulging in delicious vegan Cuban and Caribbean meals, both of which were absolutely delightful!

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Safety and Health

Ensuring safety and maintaining good health is always important, no matter where you are. Here are some safety tips and health considerations to keep in mind:

1. Stay Hydrated:

Florida’s warm and humid climate can lead to dehydration, especially during outdoor activities. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, particularly when engaging in physical activities like hiking or biking.

2. Protect Against Mosquitoes:

Mosquitoes are prevalent in Florida, especially during the warmer months. Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks when hiking or camping in areas where mosquitoes are abundant.

This natural repellent prevents mosquito bites, and it works great!

3. Sun Protection:

Florida’s abundant sunshine calls for adequate sun protection. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF rating, sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.

Sun hoodies are great at protecting you from UV rays and can keep you comfortable even on warm days. It is lightweight and breathable, with built-in UV protection. This is what my husband wears on his 20+-mile day hikes. He’ll be doing the Pacific Crest Trail from the Mexico border to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington next month, and he made sure he had 2 of these to change into.

Please also consider seeking shade during peak sun hours to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion.

A Sun Hoodie from Amazon

4. Be Aware of Wildlife:

Florida is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, and other potentially dangerous animals. Exercise caution when exploring natural areas, and adhere to posted signs and warnings. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and never approach or feed wild animals.

5. Practice Water Safety:

Florida’s extensive waterways offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating, and water sports. Practice water safety by wearing a life jacket when boating or participating in water activities, especially in unfamiliar or fast-moving waters. Be aware of potential hazards like rip currents at beaches.

As a note, most of the beaches we went to in the winter didn’t have any lifeguards on duty.

6. Secure Your Vehicle:

When parking overnight or leaving your vehicle unattended, make sure that it is securely locked and all valuables are stowed away out of sight. Park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving personal belongings visible through windows, which could attract unwanted attention. It is always wise to know your surroundings.

Budgeting and Expenses

Traveling in Florida can be both exciting and affordable with planning and budgeting. Here are some tips for managing your expenses and making the most of your budget:

1. Accommodation Options:

Florida offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from campsites and budget motels to luxury resorts and vacation rentals.

We boondocked every night for over a month, so our accommodation for our whole Florida trip cost us $0.00!

2. Dining Choices:

Dining out in Florida can range from budget-friendly eateries and food trucks to upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments. You can look for local diners, ethnic eateries, and street food vendors for affordable and delicious meals.

We cooked most of the meals in our van and ate out 3 times to have a taste of local ethnic food, such as vegan Cuban and Caribbean food. Therefore, the cost of our meals is more in line with being at home and eating in.

3. Transportation Costs:

Transportation expenses in Florida can vary depending on your mode of travel. Opting for public transportation, biking, or walking can save on transportation costs.

We use GasBuddy, one of the essential vanlife apps, to find cheaper gas to save on fuel costs.

4. Entertainment and Attractions:

Although it’s more difficult to find free attractions in Florida, there are still some. These include beaches, parks, museums, and cultural festivals. Research free or discounted admission days, coupons, and online deals to save on expenses.

National Parks: As I mentioned earlier, we purchased the America the Beautiful Pass, an annual national park pass. It grants free entry for the passholder and one guest to all national parks. For just $80 a year, this pass offers incredible value for nature lovers. Additionally, there are alternative options available for individuals with disabilities, members of the US military, and more. Visit the US Geological Survey Store to see more options and qualifications.

For instance, the entrance fee for Everglades National Park is $35 per vehicle. By visiting just three parks in a year with our America the Beautiful pass, we would have already exceeded the cost of the annual pass. Or, you can consider visiting on one of the free entrance days showing towards the bottom of the page!

State Parks: There are 175 state parks in Florida. Admission fees vary from park to park. It’s from $2 per pedestrian and $8 per vehicle (up to eight people) and up. If you are spending time in Florida and would like to visit multiple state parks, you can consider purchasing an individual annual pass for $60 plus tax or a family annual pass for $120 plus tax. Additional fees may apply for activities like kayak launching or swimming.  Here’s more details on the annual pass and discounts that’re available.

County, City Parks, and Wildlife Reserves: They typically have a lower cost and may be free. These may provide a more economical option. We’ve encountered alligators and various birds in these free parks and reserves, including the gigantic 13+-foot-long alligator!

5. Miscellaneous Expenses:

Be prepared for additional expenses such as parking fees, tolls, souvenirs, and incidental costs. Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses or emergencies to avoid overspending.

Final Thoughts

Now you have knowledge about Florida’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

You are ready to plan and experience the Sunshine State in all it’s simple bliss.

Whether you’re exploring the beautiful springs, traversing the winding rivers, or lounging on the pristine beaches, Florida offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and natural discovery.

From the iconic Everglades, overflowing with wildlife, to the sparkling waters of the Gulf Coast, each corner of Florida has its own unique charm and attraction.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters or tranquil nature escapes, Florida exceeds your expectations.

As you explore Florida’s natural wonders and wild life, take the time to savor the moments, cherish the memories, and connect with the people and places that make the Sunshine State so special.

Whether you’re basking in the warm glow of a sunset over the Gulf of Mexico or marveling at the beauty of a manatee gliding through crystal-clear waters, Florida invites you to experience dolce far niente of nature in its purest form.

I hope this guide helps you plan for the adventure of a lifetime in Florida.

The Sunshine State welcomes you with open arms and promises an unforgettable journey filled with wonder, discovery, and endless possibilities.

Florida, you’ve spoiled us!

Original post published: March 18th, 2024

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1. photo credit: “Vanderbilt Beach, Florida” by Jim Crocker is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 ↩︎

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