ROAD TRIPPING FLORIDA STYLE: Nothing

story and photos by Lauren Gay of outdoorsydiva.com and IG @outdoorsydiva

Many of us are in an in-between spot this year—vaccinated but unsure of COVID-19 rates at our destination; wanting to stay close to home but wanting a getaway. That’s what the road trip is for! Here are some fun Florida road trip Ideas for a summer escape.

Palm Island

ENGLEWOOD BEACH: A GREAT UNDERRATED FLORIDA DESTINATION.

Where to Stay: Catch a car ferry and escape to Palm Island Resort for a true island escape. Things To Do: Explore the waterways and watch dolphins from one of Glass Bottom Kayaks’ clear kayak tours or visit Gasparilla Island State Park to see the lighthouse and an amazing sunset. There’s an abundance of water activities, eco tours and pristine beaches in the Englewood and Punta Gorda area. Must Try Eats: Farlow’s on the Water Sanibel Shells FORT MYERS AND SANIBEL ISLAND: AN ISLAND-HOPPING GETAWAY JUST A SHORT DRIVE AWAY—NO PASSPORT REQUIRED!

Where to Stay: The Luminary Fort Myers and The Island Inn Sanibel Things To Do: See the botanical gardens at the Edison Ford Winter Estates before heading down to Sanibel Island. Kayak at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge or bike around the island. Take a boat tour with Captiva Cruises to Cabbage Key and Useppa Island. You can also catch a ferry to spend a day on Cayo Costa State Park. Must Try Eats: McGregor Café and Mudbugs Cajun Kitchen

STUART AND MARTIN COUNTY: QUAINT, CUTE AND THE PERFECT OCEANSIDE DESTINATION.

Where to Stay: Hutchinson Shores Beach Resort & Spa Things To Do: Take a sail boat ride on the Lily Schooner down the St. Lucie River or see the largest exposed Anastasia rock outcropping in Florida at Blowing Rocks. The kids will love to explore the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center with touch tanks of cool sea creatures and a saltwater lagoon with sharks, sea turtles and tons of tropical fish. Must Try Eats: Philly Down South

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WAKULLA: OLD FLORIDA NATURAL BEAUTY AND GREAT FOOD.

Where to Stay: Wakulla Springs Lodge Things to Do: Wakulla Springs is the deepest freshwater spring in the state of Florida. Swim in the springs or take a scenic boat tour down the river to see the native wildlife that thrives in the ecosystem. Rent a kayak to see the natural beauty of old Florida up close and personal, then venture to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge for gator spotting and to see other shorebirds. Must Try Eats: Posey’s Up the Creek Steam Room

FLORIDA KEYS

The Middle and Lower Keys have amazing gems to discover for true road warriors willing to make the beautiful scenic drive to the southernmost part of the state. Bahia Honda State Park Where to Stay: Hawks Cay on Duck Key has spacious rooms and villas with ocean views that are perfect for families. With five pools, a spa, onsite restaurants and a saltwater lagoon, it’s the perfect place to escape just a little more than a 5-hour drive from Tampa. In Key West, Barbary Beach House offers boutique adventure with stylish accommodations and ocean views. Things to Do: Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge, Bahia Honda State Park, Honest Eco Adventure and snorkel tour, Key West Butterfly Nature Conservatory and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Must Try Eats: Chef Michael’s, Blue Heaven and Half Shell Raw Bar

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