If you travel about 70 miles west of Key West by boat or seaplane, you can visit the remote wonderland of Dry Tortugas National Park. Due to the park's location, it doesn't see too many visitors, but those who do make the trip find it to be well worth it. Visitors can explore the unique 19th-century fortress, check out the majestic lighthouse, and even get a firsthand look at some of the park's sea turtles. In total, the park comprises seven islands and serves as a perfect destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, paddling, fishing, and swimming.
Everglades National Park is a vast stretch of wilderness covering roughly 1.5 million acres in southern Florida. The park represents the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, and visitors can take fascinating airboat tours to get a unique look at the area. The park is known for its superb wildlife-viewing opportunities, inhabited by rare creatures like Florida panthers, manatees, and American crocodiles. Visitors can also partake in hiking, boating, backcountry camping, and bird watching.
Biscayne National Park has a lot to offer for those who enjoy being on and around the water. Located just off the southeastern coast of Florida, the park comprises 172,000 acres and offers opportunities to sea leaping bottlenose dolphins and fascinating crustaceans. Popular activities for visitors include world-class fishing, boating, and guided tours. The park is also known as one of the best spots for scuba diving and snorkeling in the country, offering adventurous guests the chance to explore the many nearby shallow-water shipwrecks.
If you're in search of a beautiful island getaway, Bahia Honda State Park certainly fits the bill. The park covers most of Bahia Honda Island and offers an award-winning beach, a historic bridge, and some incredible snorkeling and beachcombing opportunities. The park is also an awesome spot for bird watching, wildlife viewing, stargazing, hiking, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
Located among the Florida Keys, Curry Hammock State Park is a great spot for anyone who wants to relax on white-sand beaches, swim in the warm ocean waters, or go paddling along gentle streams. The isolated island park is an excellent destination for a tranquil getaway.
Another lovely natural area in the Florida Keys is Long Key State Park. The gorgeous natural haven features a mild tropical climate and offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking, bird watching, boating, and hiking along the nearby nature trails.
There are some amazing monuments and landmarks in Florida, and one worth seeing in person is the Coral Castle, which is located near the town of Homestead, Florida. The strange, unique castle was first conceived in the 1920s and was carved out using over 1,100 tons of coral rock. The castle has become an iconic landmark, and visitors can take a guided tour for a truly unforgettable experience.
In Miami, you should take some time to explore the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The site was once the winter residence of a millionaire named James Deering, but by the 1950s, it had been turned into an art museum. The unique museum was also the site of a famous heist in the 1970s.
Joe's Stone Crab is an iconic restaurant found in Miami Beach. The restaurant was founded back in 1913, and when it opens for the season on October 15th, crowds flock to the site. You may have to wait in line to get a table, but it's worth it for the delicious crab and the unique experience.
One excellent campground to consider is C. B. Smith Park, which has 83 full-hookup RV campsites available. The family-friendly resort features water slides, tube rides, a family golfing context, and tennis courts.
The Kozy Kampers RV Park is another lovely place to stay overnight, featuring 104 RV campsites available for $45-$59 per night. The park is only seven miles from the Atlantic Ocean, meaning there are plenty of nearby opportunities for scuba diving, boat tours, and sport fishing. The campground also features an air-conditioned clubhouse for its guests.
You could also enjoy a relaxing stay at the Aztec RV Resort. The campground is home to an impressive 645 RV campsites available for anywhere from $69 to $129 per night. The park has full hookups available and also offers an upscale fitness center, a huge meeting hall, heated pools, a concierge service, and structured activities every day.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Key+West, FL without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Key+West, FL?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Key+West, FL, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Key+West, FL?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Key+West, FL particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Key+West, FL that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.