5 Florida Travel Mistakes 1st Time Visitors Make (& How to Avoid Them!) 🦩☀️
From theme parks to the best beaches in the US, Florida is a fabulous destination. But take it from a Floridian, don’t make these mistakes.
Have you ever spent a fortune on a vacation only to realize you made some rookie travel mistake?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone!
With its sun-kissed beaches and thrilling theme parks, Florida is a dream destination.
But travel missteps here can turn your dream getaway into a roller coaster ride you didn’t sign up for.
I grew up in Florida and let’s just say the state is a bit quirky. After all, there’s a reason for the “Florida Man” memes.
A few years ago, my husband and I moved back to Florida and we now live in a popular vacation area. And let’s just say we’ve seen all the mistakes visitors make.
The good news? Those mistakes are easy to avoid if you’re armed with the right info.
Let’s dig into the top five rookie mistakes travelers often make in the Sunshine State and how you can sidestep them with ease!
1. Neglecting the Weather: It’s not all Sunshine & Rainbows
Florida is famous for its sunshine, but did you know it’s also the lightning capital of the U.S.?
Many visitors pack for sunshine, only to find themselves caught in a torrential downpour. Savvy travelers know to prepare for anything when they visit Florida.
For example, in the summer months in south Florida we have afternoon thunderstorms every day around 3pm like clockwork. They don’t last long but if you’re not prepared with an umbrella or rain jacket it can quickly derail your day.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Always check the weather forecast and pack ponchos along with your flip-flops. After all, nothing stops a Disney day (or a fun beach day!) like getting soaked!
And remember, hurricane season is serious business. We’ve been through 3 in the past three years. Zero stars, do not recommend.
If you have a Florida vacation planned between June 1st and November 30th, make sure you’re keeping a close eye on the weather in the week or so leading up to your trip.
2. Underestimating the Distances: Florida Is Bigger Than You Think
Many assume Florida’s highlights are a quick drive apart.
Imagine planning to see both the Everglades and Kennedy Space Center in one day! Florida stretches over 447 miles from north to south.
For example, the drive from Pensacola Beach (close to the Alabama border) to Key West would take nearly 14 hours…without traffic! And if you have to drive anywhere near the Tampa/Orlando area…there’s always traffic.
Be sure to map out your Florida road trip and allow plenty of travel time, lest your road trip eats up precious beach or theme park hours.
Even better, focus on one area of Florida at a time for your vacation. You can always come back!
3. Missing Local Eats: Beyond Burgers and Fries
If your Floridian food adventure starts and ends with Magic Kingdom burgers, you’re doing it wrong.
Florida’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population. For example, the town where we now live turned out to be a surprisingly good foodie destination!
Read More: 10 Best Punta Gorda Restaurants that Prove it’s a Foodie Town
Go beyond and discover local gems serving up delicious key lime pie, stone crab, and Cuban sandwiches. Your tastebuds will thank you!
4. Overlooking Nature: Florida’s Wild Side
Florida boasts more than theme parks and beaches.
Nature lovers can kayak with manatees, hike through vast wetlands, or explore unique ecosystems in the Everglades.
Another fun surprise when we moved back to Florida…our neighborhood has manatees! I’m obsessed. My husband thinks I will someday stop taking pictures of them (spoiler alert: I won’t).
They are the cutest!
Of course, we also have alligators. They are not as cute.
But they are a fact of life in Florida. When you visit Florida, never forget that any (and I mean any) body of freshwater can have an alligator lurking in it (lakes, ponds, canals, you name it).
And while it’s important to be wary of alligators, don’t skip out on manatees, birds, and other Florida wildlife—these experiences offer a break from the crowds and a nature connection like no other!
5. Ignoring Off-Season Perks: Timing Is Everything
While summer is high season in North Florida, and winter is peak season in South Florida, savvy travelers know that all of Florida shines in spring and fall (just watch out for hurricanes in the fall!).
You’ll find fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and better rates in all parts of Florida during those off-season months – also known as “when the kids are in school.”
We once visited Pensacola Beach in January and it was a little slice of heaven. We had our pick of great hotels for a song, the temperatures were mild, and the beaches were empty.
Navigating Florida Like a Pro
There you have it—avoid these common mishaps and you’re on your way to a seamless Florida vacation.
Remember, a bit of planning can save you loads of headaches.
And if you’re looking for a few awesome Florida destinations, start here:
This Secluded Florida Barrier Island is Home to a Literary Legend (& You’ve Never Heard of It)
10 Super Fun Things to Do in Punta Gorda FL (#7 is a Must!)
One Day in Key West, Florida? Here are 7 Things You Can’t Miss
Pensacola Beach is the True Gem of Florida’s Emerald Coast (Here’s Why)