Florida is an American state that should rank highly on your list of potential vacation destinations. With its beaches, theme parks, amazing cities and national parks you cannot get a more diverse family holiday option.
Year round sunshine, white sand beaches, Disneyland and the great outdoors, what’s there not to like about Florida? This state attracts over 80 million each year and it only takes a single visit to understand why nearly 350,000 people relocate to Florida every year. It’s also a state that’s geared towards family vacations and has a high accessibility, meaning you don’t have to stay at home all the time. You might take flights to Florida for the Orlando theme parks but that’s only part of the fun in this amazing destination.
The Everglades
There are 161 state parks in Florida but the Everglades National Park is arguably one of the top tourist attractions. Stretching out over 1,509,000 acres, this is America’s largest subtropical wilderness and home to wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, snakes and Black Bears. A number of tours are available around the Everglades and transportation options can include airboat, swamp buggy, power boats and kayaks. The entire family can enjoy a day trip and overnight sea kayak camping trips are available for those who wish to spend a little longer exploring this fascinating area.
The Beach
Florida is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. No matter where you are you’ll not have to travel far to experience these idyllic spots. The West Coast offers immense beaches such as those found at Fort De Soto Park and the Caladesi Island State Park. Hit the East Coast and you can enjoy famous beaches, including the pristine Playa Linda Beach on the Canaveral National Seashore and buzzing Daytona Beach, just 50 miles from Orlando. Miami is of course home to some of Florida’s top famous beaches and if you’re visiting the city then you’re spoilt for choice with South Beach and the palm-tree lined Golden Beach.
The Theme Park City
Orlando will usually be the children’s first choice of ‘must visit’ Florida destinations due to the fact that it’s the theme park capital of the world. The Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, the Magic Kingdom Park, Lego Land and Sea World are just a few of the attractions located in Orlando. This city is geared towards families and you can easily find accommodation here to suit both your taste and budget. If you fancy a day away from the rollercoasters then there are a number of nature parks to explore, including Blue State Spring Park and the Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Florida is a place that you should take time to get to know over a few weeks at least. It’s an amazing state that will provide unforgettable vacation memories for adults and children. Start off with a few days at the theme parks and then head to the beaches and parks to enjoy the great outdoors Florida-style.
Images by Joe Parks, Esa L and Joe Penniston used under creative commons license.