X

Visit the USA and have a memorable holidayHelping you plan a memorable trip to the USA!

To make sure you receive Visit USA’s latest news, information and travel offers, sign up to receive our email updates below:

 


I would like to be contacted by Visit USA with updates and travel offers

By providing your email address and clicking “submit” you consent to be contacted by Visit USA with offers and updates which we feel may be of interest to you. To opt out, use the unsubscribe link or email info@visitusa.org.uk. Find out how Visit USA safeguards user information by reading our Privacy Statement.

 

States & Destinations

Explore Florida by...

| | | |

About Florida

Introduction  Facts

Find inspiration for Florida...

IDEAS
January on the Water in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach

Winter sun, calm waters and great catches on Charlotte Harbor 

IDEAS
Why 2026 Is the Year to Visit Amelia Island

Easy-going beach days, rich history, and authentic Florida charm in 2026

OFFERS
Pre and Post Cruise Deals in Miami

Sailing from PortMiami? Check out these special offers to use before and after you set sail.

IDEAS
Your Guide to SOBEWFFⓇ

Heading to the 2026 South Beach Wine & Food Festival? Here’s everything you need to make the most of your time during this foodie extravaganza.

IDEAS
Spa Days to Soothe Your Soul

Ready for some rest and relaxation? Discover an abundance of serene havens throughout Miami when the day calls for perfect pampering. 

IDEAS
Spring into Sun & Fun In Miami

With sun-kissed beaches, warm breezes and vibrant energy all around, spring is the perfect season to soak up some of the best of Miami.

IDEAS
Miami's Evening Attractions to Stay up For

Miami is no stranger to the world’s best nightlife, from the hottest clubs to the swankiest lounges.

IDEAS
Florida’s Best Beach Vacation

If you're one of the many travellers looking to visit Florida, find your own brand of sandy serenity at Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach.

IDEAS
A Warm and Cheerful December on Amelia Island

December on Amelia Island feels different in the best way. Instead of snow and heavy coats, there’s soft sunshine, cool sea air, and festive lights glowing along quiet streets.

VIDEO
Top US Coastal Drives

Top 5 Coastal Drives

 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10  ...  

Florida

The Sunshine State

From world-famous beaches to botanical gardens, and golf courses to cultural landmarks, Florida offers a holiday for every type of explorer. Known as The Sunshine State, Florida continues to shine as one of America's most dynamic and diverse destinations. Whether you're searching for family fun, natural beauty, or pure relaxation, Florida delivers it all in abundance.

If sunbathing and surf sound like your perfect getaway, you’re in the right place. Florida’s beaches are consistently ranked among the best in the USA, with Fort De Soto Park near St. Petersburg claiming the top spot on TripAdvisor’s list of Best Beaches in the US. With over 1,300 miles of coastline, travellers can choose between the calm Gulf waters or the energetic Atlantic surf.

Compared to Georgia’s quieter coastal towns like Tybee Island or the Golden Isles, Florida’s beach scene is more expansive, with buzzing boardwalks, beach resorts, and endless watersport opportunities. While South Carolina is known for charming, historic beaches like Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach, Florida offers a broader range of tropical vibes, from the Florida Keys to the panhandle.

Golf enthusiasts will feel at home in Florida, which boasts over 1,470 golf courses, more than any other state in the country. Try your swing at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, where the tee box is built over a Cold War-era nuclear fallout shelter constructed for President John F. Kennedy. This unique blend of sport and history adds an unforgettable element to Florida’s championship courses.

While Georgia and South Carolina both offer acclaimed golfing, particularly along the coastal regions and mountain foothills, Florida’s sheer volume and year-round sunshine create a golfer’s paradise like no other.

Florida isn’t just about beaches and cities; it’s also a hub for nature lovers. Explore the Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville or wander through one of the many lush botanical gardens across the state. Campers and families can head north to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, where fresh air, nature trails, and outdoor fun await.

From the thrills of theme parks in Orlando to the serene shores of Sanibel Island, and from high-end shopping in Miami to quiet kayak routes in Crystal River, Florida holidays promise diversity at every turn.

Compared to its neighbours, Georgia leans into heritage and culture, and South Carolina offers elegance and charm. But Florida brings it all together: sun, fun, and unforgettable experiences, wrapped in palm trees and ocean breeze.

Last Updated: 03/10/2025

 

Highlights

Visitors flock to its theme parks but they can also explore the natural side of the Sunshine State. The River of Grass, spanning the Florida peninsula from coast to coast, is the only living coral reef in the continental U.S. and the nation’s southern-most islands.

State Secret

Canaveral National Seashore and Gulf Islands National Seashore, the longest protected seashore in the nation, offers miles of sand and coastal views.

State Facts

Land Area: 53,654.8 sq miles

Water Area: 17,748.7 sq miles

Population: 21.5 million

State Capital: Tallahassee

Largest City: Jacksonville

Local Time: 5 hrs behind the UK

Climate: Generally the summer is hot and it can be humid in the southern part of the state. Winters are usually mild, and spring/autumn have some of the best weather of all.

State Parks: Florida has millions of acres of undeveloped public land on which there are more than 150+ state parks, dozens of national forests, wildlife refuges and preserves.

More Information

Visit Florida
Tel: 020 7932 2406 | Web: www.visitflorida.com |

Visit the USA - a guide to what the US has to offer
Blog

Travel tips and inspiring ideas for a memorable USA trip!

Explore the USA with our US State map and guide
Explore

Find out what each state has to offer and create your USA experience.

Experience the USA, places to visit, things to do
Experience

Find out more about activities, sights and events in the USA.

 
Sign up here to receive USA Travel News, the regular Visit USA e-mail newsletter with the latest news and information


By providing your email address and clicking “sign-up” you consent to be contacted by Visit USA with offers and updates which we feel may be of interest to you. To opt out, use the unsubscribe link or email info@visitusa.org.uk. Find out how Visit USA safeguards user information by reading our Privacy Statement.