Miami is by far the most happening city in South Florida. From the picturesque beaches to the restaurants, bars, clubs, shopping, and architecture, you can always find something to do in this world-class locale. However, why limit yourself? When you’re spending time down in Miami, there are plenty of exciting day trips just an hour or less away from the city. Explore the beaches of the Florida Keys or watch a rocket launch into space—South Florida is filled with thrilling adventures.

The Florida Keys: Snorkel in Key Largo

Address: Key Largo, FL 33037, USA

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Phone: +1 305-676-3777

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Take a ride down to the Florida Keys and enjoy a day of water fun. Water sports can be done at nearly any beach in Florida, but the Keys are in a league of their own. From the laid-back island vibe to the world-class coral reefs, it’s undoubtedly worth a day trip. The closest key from Miami is Key Largo, where you can catch a scuba or snorkeling day trip out to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Getting There: Key Largo is about an hour and twenty-minute drive from Miami. It’s a straightforward drive across the Overseas Highway—a true sight to behold. A shuttle service also leaves from the Miami International Airport throughout the day, so plan ahead and book in advance to guarantee a spot.

Travel Tip: Beware of traffic heading down to the Keys. If you’re planning your day trip over a weekend or holiday, be sure to leave early in the morning; otherwise, the trip could take you twice as long. Also, remember that there are no rest stops on the Overseas Highway until you reach the Keys, so make sure you don’t need a bathroom break and bring plenty of snacks for the ride.

Bimini: Go Diving With a Hammerheads

Address: Alice Town, The Bahamas

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Just 50 miles from Miami is the small Bahamian island of Bimini. It’s not the most popular island in the Bahamas, yet this small paradise has much to offer. On your day trip to Bimini, you’ll feel like an explorer uncovering uncharted territory. From snorkeling around shipwrecks off the coast and diving with hammerheads to hiking through the island’s visitors’ trail, you’re bound to discover something new. Of course, you can’t leave Bimini without eating like a local—don’t miss the conch ceviche, a signature snack on the island, or the lobster pizza at Edith’s.

Getting There: The best way to reach Bimini is by boat, with about a two-hour ride to the island. Day trips usually depart around 9 a.m. and leave Bimini around 8 p.m. that same day. A round-trip ticket costs approximately $120, and you can often obtain day passes to The Hilton Resort on the beach as well.

Travel Tip: Bimini is a series of three small islands—North Bimini, South Bimini, and East Bimini. The largest is North Bimini, which is home to Alice Town and the main drag (the King’s Highway) filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. Be sure to check it out during your day trip.

Everglades National Park: Bike Through Shark Valley

Address: 40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034, USA

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Phone: +1 305-242-7700

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Biking is a common activity in Florida. Riding through an alligator-infested pathway is less common, but at Shark Valley, you can experience just that. The 15-mile scenic loop around Everglades National Park includes a concrete lookout tower where visitors can climb to get an amazing view of the area. Bathrooms and water fountains are available in the tower. Remember, you will encounter many alligators along this path. Even if they seem calm, keep at least 15 feet away as they are still live creatures!

Getting There: Shark Valley is about an hour’s drive outside of Miami. There are two entrances: U.S. 41 Tamiami Trail in Miami or the Gulf Coast entrance on Oyster Bar Lane in Everglades City. For precise directions, visit the Shark Valley visitor’s page.

Travel Tip: The bike loop path at Shark Valley typically takes 2-3 hours, so ensure you are prepared with snacks and water. For those who may not be up for the long ride, a guided tram leaves from the visitor’s center.

Space Coast: Watch a Rocket Launch

Address: Florida 32899, USA

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Head up to the Space Coast for a day of sun, surf, and space! Besides Cocoa Beach, a haven for surfers, the Kennedy Space Center in Titusville is the location of impressive rocket launches into space. Check the Kennedy Space Center site to schedule your visit around the next launch. Even if you don’t visit on a launch day, touring the space center is enjoyable for all ages. Explore mission control, enter a real space capsule, and learn about famous NASA pioneers.

Getting There: Cape Canaveral is about a 3-hour drive from Miami. However, if you don’t have a car, it’s still possible to do this in a day. Tours are available that offer round-trip rides starting at about $150 per person. Reservations are necessary.

Travel Tip: If watching a rocket launch is your goal, make sure to check that viewing is available. Due to scheduling constraints, NASA does not always permit visitors to watch from designated seating areas.

Palm Beach: Kayak to Peanut Island

Address: Palm Beach, FL, USA

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Although Palm Beach is known for upscale shopping, award-winning restaurants, and luxurious homes, there is much to do beyond just admiring the lives of the rich and famous. For a fun day activity, rent kayaks at the Riviera Beach marina and paddle out to Peanut Island—a 20-minute kayak ride away. Once on the island, enjoy snorkeling, exploring nature trails, and relaxing on the beach. Be sure to bring all necessary supplies and food, as the island has only a few bathrooms. While there, be sure to check out the once top-secret Kennedy Bunker, a genuine historical relic.

Getting There: Just head north up I-95 for about an hour, and you’ll arrive at your destination. A Greyhound bus is available, as well as Tri-Rail.

Travel Tip: On your drive back to Miami via A1A, enjoy the beautiful and opulent mansions lining the waterfront.

Fort Lauderdale: Hang Out on Las Olas Boulevard

Address: E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

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Fort Lauderdale has transformed from a spring break mecca of constant partying to a cleaner and more vibrant destination for all. Today, Las Olas Boulevard is home to chic boutique shops, specialty ice cream stores, and delicious restaurants. At night, this lively area glows with vibrant lights, live music, and a youthful crowd.

Getting There: Miami to Fort Lauderdale takes about 40 minutes. The Tri-Rail is also available, departing from the Miami Airport Station with three stops in Fort Lauderdale.

Travel Tip: During high season, which runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s, Las Olas can grow quite busy with tourists. Plan accordingly, and if possible, avoid driving, as parking can be challenging.

Naples: Relax and Unwind

Address: 25 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102, USA

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Phone: +1 239-213-7120

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When the hustle and bustle of Miami become overwhelming, head west to the serene Gulf Coast. Naples is a low-key city with beautiful homes, a scenic pier, and plenty of white sandy beaches. Enjoy your day in Naples by renting bikes and visiting the pier or trying your hand at golf. You’ll see people fishing off the pier, sunbathing on the sand, or swimming in the warm Gulf waters. The downtown area features delightful shops and numerous outdoor cafés. Keep in mind that many places close fairly early, indicating that it may be time to head back east.

Getting There: Drive west on I-75 to reach Naples. The journey takes about two hours. A Greyhound bus costs around $30 one way.

Travel Tip: Although Naples is relatively small, it is also quite affluent. If you plan to stay until dinner, be sure to pack a nicer outfit for dining out—unless, of course, you plan on grabbing pizza.

Homestead and Redland: Enjoy the Exotic Wine

The Redland region is located right at the entrance to Everglades National Park. This area is filled with exotic fruit orchards, wineries, and old Florida charm—you would never guess you’re just about 45 minutes from downtown Miami. While in Homestead, be sure to visit Phil’s Berry Farm or Knaus Berry Farm and Bakery, both of which offer fantastic baked goods like monkey bread, guava pies, and pecan rolls. If you have extra time, visit the Cauley Square Historic Railroad Village for a charming throwback to old Florida, complete with refurbished railroad cars, tropical gardens, and antique outdoor statues. Also, don’t miss the chance to visit Schnebly Redland’s Winery for their unique wines made from Florida fruits like mango, avocado, lychee, and passion fruit.

Getting There: The best way to travel to Homestead and the Redlands is to drive. It takes about 45 minutes, and parking is usually not an issue in the area.

Travel Tip: Don’t leave the Redlands without stopping at Robert Is Here. This exotic fruit stand located just outside Everglades National Park offers fresh fruits like persimmons, sapodilla, and lychees, plus a variety of delicious shakes.

Grand Bahama: Swim With Wild Pigs

Address: Exuma Cays, The Bahamas

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If you find yourself tired of the beautiful Miami beaches or are looking for a more relaxed day, consider a trip to Grand Bahama or Freeport. Spend the day soaking in the sun by the clear blue waters or swim with wild pigs in Freeport. While there, be sure to enjoy some authentic Caribbean food.

Getting There: Speedboats and cruises leave from Miami daily for Grand Bahama. For about $80 one way, you can spend your day in the Bahamas and return by dinner time. If you book a tour with an all-inclusive cruise group, they often provide hotel pick-up service.

Travel Tip: If being in beach clothes all day becomes uncomfortable, consider purchasing a day pass for one of the local resorts. This allows you to shower and change out of wet swimwear before heading back on the ferry.

Delray Beach: Hit Up Atlantic Avenue

Address: 345 S Congress Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444, USA

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Phone: +1 800-872-7245

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No matter your style, you’ll find something you enjoy in Delray Beach. This city harmoniously combines upscale charm with laid-back vibes, and Atlantic Avenue truly offers it all. This beachside promenade buzzes with lively outdoor spaces and fresh food during the day, and at night, it comes alive with illuminated palm trees and live music. In the summer and holiday season, shows are frequently held at the bandstand by the water.

Getting There: Drive north from Miami for about an hour, and you’ll reach Delray. Greyhound buses are available, although renting a car or taking an Uber may be more convenient. Atlantic Avenue can become congested during peak season, but there are several municipal lots with 3-hour metered parking.

Travel Tip: Atlantic Avenue transforms in the evening. Begin your day at the beach and enjoy lunch at Boston’s or Caffé Luna Rosa. However, don’t stay by the water for dinner; venture further up the street beyond the train tracks and enjoy the nightlife at Salt or Rocco’s Tacos.

Biscayne National Park: Explore the Underwater World

Address: Florida 33033, USA

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Considered part of the northern Florida Keys, Biscayne National Park spans 173,000 acres and is located about an hour south of Miami. Comprising 95% water, the rest includes mangrove forests and small barrier islands. Visiting Biscayne National Park is like diving into an underwater wonderland—eco-adventures such as snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking through mangroves ensure you forget that you are just an hour from the bustling city of Miami.

Getting There: Keep the potential heavy traffic from Miami in mind when planning your visit. Allow extra time for travel on weekends, holidays, or during rush hour.

Travel Tip: For the ultimate Biscayne National Park experience, consider camping on Elliot Key or Boca Chita Key. The fees are approximately $25 per night and include two tents for up to six people.

Bonita Springs: A Walking Tour Through Old Florida

Address: 27451 Old US 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135, USA

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Phone: +1 239-992-6997

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Bonita Springs is a quaint coastal town on Florida’s west coast that will help alleviate stress any time of the year. In addition to its stunning beaches, the Bonita Springs Historical Society offers six themed history tours around the city’s historic downtown. Themes include city landmarks, How Bonita got its name, River Walks, and Land of the Calusa. Schedule a tour by visiting the Bonita Springs Historical Society site.

Getting There: Bonita Springs is about two hours from Miami. Driving is the most feasible option.

Travel Tip: Pack a bathing suit and a change of clothes for your day in Bonita Springs—this charming small town offers a wide range of activities, and it’s best to be prepared for both beach time and exploration.

Marco Island: Beachcombing on a Barrier Island

Address: 180 S Heathwood Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145-5028, USA

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Phone: +1 239-252-1440

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Imagine spending a day on a white sand beach filled with exotic seashells while pelicans fly above. This idyllic scenario is easily attainable on Marco Island. The small barrier island off the coast of Naples may not offer many activities, but the peaceful beaches here are truly enough. Be sure to visit Tiger Tail Beach, one of the most popular in the area, featuring amenities like parking, a shaded playground, grills, and a picnic area. Sand Dollar Island is a must-visit as well; it’s a tidal lagoon you can walk through due to its shallow waters, making it great for bird-watching.

Getting There: Driving is the best option! It’s about two hours west from Miami, and having your vehicle makes it easier to navigate the island.

Travel Tip: Expect fine dining and high-end shopping, as this is a more upscale vacation destination. Keep that in mind if you’re traveling on a budget.