Road Trip with RVshare Miami to Sarasota

When you take a Miami to Sarasota road trip, you are going to want to head south to visit Biscayne National Park before heading west. You will also pass Everglades National Park along this route. Once you are done exploring the park, head north on I-75, which will take you the rest of the way to Sarasota. Before leaving Miami, make sure to stop and see some highlights like the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, the Miami Seaquarium, and Miami Beach.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Naples, Florida

Make sure to make a stop in Naples on your road trip itinerary from Miami to Sarasota. It is a very quaint town with a lot of history, and while you are in the city, you will be able to visit locations like Marco Island. Some of the highlights that you will find in Naples include the Naples Botanical Garden, the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, and the Naples Zoo. If you are into fishing, drop by the Naples Pier for some surf fishing while you are in the area. It also provides majestic sunsets that you will want to experience with a loved one. 

Finding a campground in the area could be a great idea, especially if you want to spend some time exploring the surroundings. This city is close to the coast, so beach-going is an option that you can enjoy. Also, make sure you look for a nearby dump station so that you can offload your wastewater before continuing on your trip.

Cape Coral, Florida

If you want to soak up the sun during this trip, make a stop in Cape Coral. It has numerous beaches, a water park, an ecological preserve, and a butterfly garden that you can enjoy. Several festivals are held in Cape Coral throughout the year, so check to see what is happening during your time visiting the city. If you enjoy golfing, there are also several courses in the area where you can practice your game.

Cape Coral campgrounds are plentiful, so find one that will have entertainment for your entire family to enjoy. Places like Gulf Waters RV Resort are close to golfing, boating, fishing, museums, and an amusement park. They even have a dump station that you can use during your stay.

Venice, Florida

Venice is a city that is not far from Sarasota, but it is one that you will want to explore. It is a great place to sift through the sand on one of the beaches to find fossils and seashells. Shark teeth are plentiful in the waters of Caspersen Beach, so grab a snorkel and start searching. You can also enjoy fishing, surfing, and dolphin spotting in the area. Also, make sure to visit downtown Venice to learn about its history. 

If you need to find a campground, there are plenty nearby that will accommodate your family’s needs. Most Florida dump stations only charge a small fee, and some locations are even free to use.

National Parks

Biscayne National Park

One of the first stops that you are going to make on this Miami to Sarasota RV road trip is Biscayne National Park. The park is approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Miami. Once you arrive, you will have plenty of things to see in the park. Take a boat tour of the park to see the three main Keys and the coral reef that surrounds the area. On the Boca Chita Key, you can explore the 65-foot lighthouse or take a hike to get an incredible view of the City of Miami. In the park, you can also enjoy some time fishing, kayaking, or snorkeling. If you choose to go fishing, remember to get a Florida saltwater fishing license. The reef in this area is only about 10 miles from shore, so if you would like to take a boat out to it, make sure you take some gear to snorkel.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park covers about 1.5 million acres, so there will be plenty of things to see. It is the third-largest national park in the country, and there are lots of species of wildlife that live in the swamps and mangroves of the Everglades. While visiting, you will want to take a Shark Valley Tram ride, a 15-mile paved trail where you can view wildlife. If you prefer to explore on your own, you can also rent a bike to ride down this path. There are also canoe tours in the park; a park ranger will navigate the Glades and point out wildlife as you encounter it. In addition, there are airboat rides that will give you a thrilling experience. Alligator sightings are common for hikers, and you can easily attend a ranger program that walks you through the park. Make sure you bring your binoculars because the Everglades has some of the best bird-watching you will find in the world; in fact, there are over 300 species of birds in the park.

Nearby State Parks

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is one of the first Florida state parks that you will want to visit during this trip. The park is a tropical paradise along the Gulf of Mexico that has a lot of activities that you can enjoy. You can sunbathe on the beach or search for seashells if you don't want to get wet. You can also enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in the park. Bird-watching is another fun activity to enjoy in the park because many birds migrate to this area. Anglers will want to visit the northern part of the park to have a chance at catching bigger trophy-sized fish. 

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park is another great state park to visit in Florida. The park is 45,387 acres, and about 100 miles of that land is shoreline. This makes it an ideal place to fish, paddle, and watch wildlife in the mangroves. It is best to reach the park via canoe or kayak, and there are paddle trails in the park that you can take to explore the area fully. There are also hiking trails that you can walk in a section of the park. Biking is an activity that is often enjoyed here as well.

Oscar Scherer State Park

Oscar Scherer State Park is a place that anglers will love to visit because it has freshwater and saltwater fishing available. If you prefer to relax in the water, there is an area where you can swim, play in the sand, or go paddling. There are a few hiking and biking trails to explore. In fact, there are over 15 miles of trails that you can navigate. If you enjoy looking for unique birds, you'll be glad to know that over 200 different species call this park their home. 

Along the Way

Miami Zoo

On the road trip from Miami to Sarasota, you will want to make a stop at the Miami Zoo. It is the only subtropical zoo in the United States, and with such a unique climate, you can see a variety of animals from different countries that other zoos may not have. You can take special tours in the zoo with a guide who will give you insight into the animals and help you experience things like animal feeding and bathing sessions.

Everglades Safari Park

Everglades Safari Park is where you can go and explore the everglades without going too far into the national park. This is an airboat tour that will glide through the waters with ease and speed. There is an alligator show that you can enjoy, and you can also take a picture with a baby alligator during your tour. There are trails in the area that you can hike as well.

Port Charlotte Beach Park

Port Charlotte Beach Park is about 16 acres of sand, water, and sun. It is a great place to enjoy a sunset, and there are fishing piers at the park that you can enjoy. There is also a boat ramp and several sand activities like horseshoes, volleyball, and more. Smaller children will enjoy playing at the playground that can be found in the park as well.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Miami to Sarasota, 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 Sarasota.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Miami to Sarasota?

To plan an RV road trip from Miami to Sarasota, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Miami to Sarasota without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Miami to Sarasota. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!