Which Florida Small Towns are Best for a Road Trip from Miami?

October 21, 2016

If you’re planning out your fall and winter road trips and you want to make sure you hit some of the best small towns in Florida, you need a list. There are several historic and beautiful small towns all throughout Florida.
Many of the towns are close enough to Miami for a long weekend getaway or for a close by vacation. Here’s a look at seven of the coolest small towns you should visit this year.

Islamorada – 1.5-hour drive

Found about half of the way to Key West is Islamorada. This is a paradise for fisherman and it’s a great place to enjoy snorkeling. The deep blue waters make it rather amazing and it’s home to the largest density of professional charter boats in the state.

Islamorada is more than just a place to fish, however. It’s a unique place for all types of adventures. You can relax and enjoy hand-feeding tarpon at Robbie’s Marina or check out a sea lion, dolphin and parrot show at the Theater of the Sea in marine mammal park.

Divers will also enjoy the incredible reef line, while music lovers can catch a show at the ICE Amphitheater. The area is also close to some of the best hiking you will find with Long Key State Park not far away.

Naples – 2-hour drive

Those seeking a weekend away full of luxury should head to the west and enjoy Naples, Florida. It’s an upscale area with incredible shopping, which mimics New York City’s 5th Avenue. It’s also a town home to many outdoor events and activities.

You’ll have the option to stay in a high-end, luxury hotel and eat at some of the finest restaurants in the area. Of course, the beaches make it an amazing trip, as well.

Stuart – 2-hour drive

Known as the Sailfish Capital of the World” Stuart provides a very unique and happening downtown area. It’s very walkable and provides some of the most diverse activities you will find. Stuart is found just to the north of West Palm Beach and it’s only a short drive for those living in Miami.

Vero Beach – 2.5-hour drive

If you go a bit further north from Stuart, you will find Vero Beach. A historic area with plenty to offer, this beach town of about 16,000 residents offers a protected shoreline, incredible wildlife, beautiful beach areas, surfing and so much more. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend trip or even a vacation close to home.

Make the most of your trip and stop in Stuart on the way there or back. Stuart and Vero Beach are close enough to each other they can be enjoyed on the same trip, even if you’re just headed out for a long weekend.

Key West – 3.5-hour drive

Of course, Key West should be on everybody’s list. It’s a place to party, enjoy some true Florida living and just relax. Make sure to try the key lime pie at Kermit’s before you go. If you plan to go to Key West, make your reservations early, as it’s so popular, many hotels book up for the season well in advance.

Dunedin – 4.5-hour drive

A big further of a drive, Dunedin is found near Tampa. It’s home to a micro-brewery, amazing beaches and some of the best festivals in the state. Of course, those looking for incredible boutique shopping will also enjoy a trip to Dunedin.

If you’re looking to visit the Clearwater or Tampa area, stay in Dunedin instead. You can still enjoy both Tampa and Clearwater, but you’ll get to enjoy a unique, small town with plenty to offer, as well.

Cedar Key – 5-hour drive

While Cedar Key is the longest drive on the list from Miami, it’s well worth the trip. It’s also the smallest town on the list with a population of only 1,000 residents. However, this is a great place to enjoy peace and quiet.

The views from Cedar Key are quite amazing and it’s not commercialized like many other beach towns. You can enjoy the museums, fishing, the beaches and some time away to relax.

Related: 20 Places to Visit in Miami During the Fall

Florida is full of great places for a weekend or week-long trip. Living in Miami puts many of the best small town destinations in Florida within driving distance. Whether you head to the north and enjoy some of the fine beaches or you head south to the keys, you’re sure to have plenty of fun this season.