Exploring Florida sometimes requires more than just a sense of adventure and the time to travel. These guides are essential tools to help you find paddling and hiking trails, campgrounds and where to experience the authentic Florida.
Recent Articles
Beach camping in the wild Ten Thousand Islands
EVERGLADES CITY — One of my favorite Florida getaways is to boat out to the outer islands and camp for a weekend on a remote, pristine beach fronting the Gulf of Mexico.
Best campgrounds for overnight layovers when heading north
After crossing the state line, you likely have many miles to your RV’s winter haven. Take a breather and lay over a night or two in one of these scenic state parks along the I-95 and I-75 corridors.
Jacaranda Hotel: Affordable historic Avon Park inn
Here’s an interesting stop far off the beaten path: The Jacaranda Hotel opened in 1926 and has been providing comfy rooms and good food ever since. It’s located in the historic district of Avon Park, a little town in the middle of the state’s cattle and orange-grove country.
Getting way away: Dry Tortugas National Park
This isolated cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West is accessible only by boat or seaplane. But treasures await you, especially if you camp over for a few nights. Yes, you can camp here! Snorkeling and kayaking, too!
The Riverview Hotel & Spa: One enchanting weekend
The charming Riverview Hotel accommodates guests at the gateway to New Smyrna Beach’s arts and entertainment district, a half-mile strip of historic homes, quaint galleries and friendly pubs leading to one of Florida’s most popular beaches.
Rustic Inn: Boisterous Old Florida crab shack
Fort Lauderdale’s Rustic Inn is a classic. Their “world famous garlic crabs” draw hundreds of people every night to this old Florida restaurant, tucked away on Ravenswood Road, just west of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. You’ll find it from the sound of wooden mallets pounding on the table every few minutes.
Boat Camping Checklist
Boat camping is a great way to scoot away from civilization to some wild and remote places.
Howley’s diner: It’s back to the ’50s in West Palm Beach
Howley’s Diner has been there for 60 years. It’s not just retro, this West Palm Beach diner is the real deal — from its terrazzo floors to its tin ceiling.