If you want to see the best of the Sunshine State, then head up A1A on a Miami to Melbourne road trip. In Miami, you can enjoy the best dining, entertainment and shopping options in the state. As you head north, you can stop by some Florida beach towns, such as Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. When you get to Melbourne, make sure to check out the historic arts district, or settle down by the beaches. For a look at the best ocean vistas in Florida, make sure to follow this Miami to Melbourne road trip itinerary.
Florida is home to three national parks. When you are hitting the road on this trip, make sure to take time to stop off at these natural wonders.
Biscayne National Park
When you are in Miami, you may want to take a day and explore Biscayne National Park. This national park covers over 172,000 acres of land and sea, including stunning coral reefs and crystal blue water. Biscayne National Park protects the delicate seagrass ecosystem. While you are there, you will have a chance to see many sea animals, such as the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. For those SCUBA divers and snorkelers, make sure to check out the shallow water shipwrecks on the Maritime Heritage Trail.
Everglades National Park
If you want to visit one of the most famous parks in the state, then head over to Everglades National Park. This national park covers over 1.5 million acres of coastal mangroves, pine flatwoods and sawgrass marshes. In fact, it is the third-largest national park in the country, and it is the largest tropical wilderness in the entire United States. This park is also home to many endangered animals, including West Indian manatees, Florida panthers and American crocodiles. For those who love adventure, you will want to camp in the backcountry, watch the birds or take out a boat. This national park offers plenty of chances to sign up for a ranger-led tour of the protected areas.
Dry Tortugas National Park
For those who want to take a drive, add a day on your road trip from Miami to Melbourne to explore the Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas National Park. This national park is home to several protected coral reefs and islands. If you want to explore, make sure to check out the historic lighthouse and 19th-century Fort Jefferson. Since the national park is off the coast of Florida, you can only travel to it by seaplane or airboat. Dry Tortugas is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. You can jump in the water to snorkel or swim. If you want to stay above the water, then boating or paddleboarding are great options.
Along with national parks, you will definitely want to visit Florida's diverse state parks on your Miami to Melbourne road trip.
Bahia Honda State Park
Located near Homestead, Bahia Honda State Park is considered a tropical paradise by many locals and visitors. This state park only covers 524 acres, but it has some of the best beaches in Florida. You can kick back on the award-winning shore and relax. If you want to get up and exercise, there are plenty of trails winding through the park. This state park is another great place to view Florida's diverse wildlife, including Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, giant rays, tropical fish, sea turtles and wading birds. While you are there, don't forget to visit the historic railway bridge that once connected Bahia Honda Key to Spanish Harbor Key.
Blue Spring State Park
Manatees are beloved residents of the state. If you want to see these gentle creatures, then head over to Blue Spring State Park. During the winter, you can see over 300 manatees warming themselves up in the springs. The park is home to exotic and endangered animals, such as herons, alligators, and turtles. If you want to walk around the park, there is a half-mile boardwalk that circles the central lagoon. There are also plenty of recreational opportunities to enjoy, including swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Anastasia State Park
Another natural gem is Anastasia State Park. This park covers over 1,600 acres of unspoiled tidal marshes, beaches, and ancient sand dunes. If you love to watch birds, then this is the perfect spot for you. Many of the wading roseate spoonbills will hunt for food along Salt Run. Eagles and ospreys soar above the park, and the warblers can be heard throughout the hammock forests. Make sure to hike along the Ancient Dunes Nature Trail, or travel down the waterway in a kayak.
From historic homes to beachside towns, there are many exciting things to see on this Miami to Melbourne road trip itinerary.
Miami Seaquarium
Miami is home to one of the oldest oceanariums in the country. This marine animal habitat was founded in 1955, and you can learn about the local ecosystem at this spot. You also can visit a large variety of sea animals, including birds, manatees, fish, sea turtles and sharks. Throughout the year, daily presentations and overnight camps are offered.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Once known as Villa Vizcaya, this historic mansion was the former residence of businessman James Deering. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the home of an Italian Renaissance garden, historical village and native woodland landscape. Miami-Dade County now owns this 20th-century estate, and there are public tours conducted throughout the year.
Stranahan House
While you are in Fort Lauderdale, you should take the time to visit this historic home. It was built in 1901 as the residence of Frank and Ivy Stranahan. The Stranahan House is one of the oldest structures in Broward County, and it has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guided tours are offered throughout the day. You will also want to visit the historic house museum or attend one of the special events.
Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden
This botanical garden is located in the heart of Melbourne's Florida Tech. You can stroll through the 15 acres of shady hammock forests. For those who want to walk around the park, make sure to hike on the Dent Smith Trail.
On your Miami to Melbourne RV road trip, you will travel past plenty of oceanside towns. You will see many places that can give you a glimpse into the heart of Florida. On this road trip from Miami to Melbourne, you will find clean and comfortable campgrounds. Along with that, there are several sanitary dump stations on the road.
West Palm Beach, Florida
West Palm Beach is known as the recreational and cultural center of South Florida. You can find plenty of entertainment options throughout the city. However, one of the most famous spots is along the shore. West Palm Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state. You can find plenty of campgrounds that are close to the city. When you need to empty the waste tanks, there are a few clean dump stations.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
This Florida city is known for its events, culture, arts, and beaches. You may want to shop on Las Olas Boulevard. If you love beaches, make sure to check out the historic riverfront or the beachfront promenade. For a unique view of Fort Lauderdale, take a narrated amphibious tour of the city. If you want to stay close to the action, enjoy a stay at one of the quiet campgrounds.
Port St. Lucie, Florida
This Florida city is located in the heart of the Treasure Coast. If you want to see the real Florida, this is the perfect vacation spot on your Miami to Melbourne road trip. You can enjoy nature's beauty or take in a spring training baseball game. Port St. Lucie is also known for its shopping and dining opportunities. When you are ready to settle down, there are plenty of relaxing campgrounds near this beautiful city.
When you follow this road trip itinerary from Miami to Melbourne, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Miami or Melbourne.
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