Best of Florida - Roadtrip durch den Sunshine State

About the destination: Orlando, located in Orange County, Florida, has a lot to offer tourists, but it is safe to say that the main reason people visit Orlando is for the variety of amusement parks: Disney World, Universal Orlando, Sea World, and several other big draw entertainment places. Nonetheless, Orlando has so much more. Beautiful tree-lined neighbourhoods, a happening performing-arts scene and various excellent gardens, nature preserves and museums around the city offers visitors amusing alternatives to the theme park experience. If the outdoors is your thing, you can swim or canoe at Wekiwa Springs State Park or one of the area's many other sparkling springs. If museums are your thing, there are many and varied options such as the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art with its huge collection of Tiffany glass, or the Orlando Science Center, with hundreds of interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. The city has a very 'young at heart' attitude, and it is a melting pot of different cultures. For nightlife, there is pretty much anything you want. The downtown area has several bars and clubs for any crowd. In a nutshell, Orlando is truly a very cool town.

About the destination: Crystal River is a city in Citrus County, Florida, United States. The city was incorporated in 1903 and is the self professed "Home of the Manatee". Crystal River Preserve State Park is located nearby, and Crystal River Archaeological State Park is located in the city's northwest side. Crystal River is at the heart of the Nature Coast of Florida. The city is situated around Kings Bay, which is spring-fed and so keeps a constant 22 °C temperature year round. Kings Bay can be home to over 400 manatees during the winter when the water temperature in the Gulf of Mexico cools, and is the only place in the United States where people can legally interact with them in their natural conditions. Tourism based on watching and swimming with manatee is the fastest growing contribution to the local economy. In 2005 there was a movement to dissolve the city which did not succeed, and the city has since grown by annexation.

About the destination: A Pinellas County destination and home of award-winning beaches, St. Pete Beach is where you can find the architecturally and historically grand Don CeSar resort. Other attractions in St. Pete Beach include world-class museums and The Pier, a five-story dining and shopping complex. Ready for a break? Kick back on the sandy white beaches of St. Pete, as the balmy waters of the Gulf of Mexico lap at your toes. With an average of 361 days of sunshine per year, St. Pete Beach is guaranteed to please. Close to attractions in Orlando and even closer to the cultural and cosmopolitan attractions of St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tampa, St. Pete Beach strikes the perfect balance for the casual, laid-back beach bum and the active attraction seeker.

About the destination: Welcome to Siesta Key, Florida, a sun-kissed paradise renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local culture. Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Siesta Key is the perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're lounging under a beach umbrella, exploring the underwater world through snorkeling, or enjoying the local cuisine, this charming island offers something for everyone. Siesta Key Beach, often ranked among the best beaches in the United States, is the crown jewel of this coastal haven. The sand, composed of 99% pure quartz, remains cool underfoot even on the hottest days. This makes it the ideal spot for sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a picturesque scene, perfect for a romantic evening or a family picnic. Beyond its stunning beaches, Siesta Key boasts a vibrant village filled with eclectic shops, delicious restaurants, and lively bars. Stroll through Siesta Key Village to discover unique boutiques offering everything from coastal decor to handmade jewelry. Savor fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, where you can enjoy dishes like grouper, shrimp, and oysters while taking in breathtaking views of the Gulf. In the evenings, the village comes alive with live music and entertainment, providing a fun and festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages. For those seeking adventure, Siesta Key offers a variety of outdoor activities. Kayak through the mangroves, embark on a fishing charter, or take a boat tour to explore nearby islands and marine life. The area is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, and an array of bird species. Whether you're looking to unwind on the beach or dive into exciting water sports, Siesta Key is a destination that promises unforgettable memories and endless fun.

About the destination: Located along the Gulf of Mexico, just a short drive from Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is justly famed for its sunsets, lighthouse and luxurious resorts. By far, the most popular activity on Sanibel Island is shelling – you barely can walk a step on the beach without indulging in the so-called "Sanibel Stoop" to search for shells. But there is so much else to do on Sanibel Island – fine accommodations, luscious dining (seafood, of course!), fishing, boating, and just plain relaxation, a chance to get away from the hurly burly, a chance to draw closer to nature.

About the destination: Discover the enchanting city of Bonita Springs, nestled in the heart of Florida, United States of America. This picturesque coastal city is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Its pristine, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush natural landscapes create a mesmerizing backdrop that will leave you spellbound. Venture away from the city's hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bonita Springs. Explore the stunning Lovers Key State Park, where you can hike, birdwatch, or simply relax by the beach. The park is also home to a wealth of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and a myriad of bird species, offering an authentic nature experience. Get your adrenaline fix by indulging in numerous water-based activities. Whether it's kayaking through mangrove forests, parasailing over the Gulf of Mexico, or embarking on a thrilling fishing excursion, Bonita Springs offers countless adventures. History enthusiasts can revel in the city's rich past by visiting the local museums like the Bonita Springs Historical Society. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, studios, and the Center for the Performing Arts, offering a variety of performances and exhibitions throughout the year. Take a stroll down Bonita Springs' downtown area, where you'll find a plethora of shopping and dining options. From upscale boutiques to quaint local shops, and from gourmet restaurants to cozy cafes, there's something for every taste and budget. Bonita Springs is more than just a vacation destination; it's a place where you can unwind, have fun, and create lasting memories. Its warm, sunny weather, friendly locals, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to Bonita Springs – a hidden gem in the United States that promises an unforgettable travel experience. This beautiful city, with its natural charm and diverse attractions, is waiting to be explored.

About the destination: Everglades City, a tiny coastal town on Florida’s southwest edge, is often called the “Gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands” and the western entrance to Everglades National Park. Far from Miami’s buzz or Naples’ resorts, this community of airboat docks, fishing skiffs, and stilt houses feels like old Florida—quiet, humid, and surrounded by mangroves. It’s a place where the main attractions are wildlife, water, and wide-open skies. Most visitors come for the Everglades themselves. From Everglades City you can join guided airboat rides skimming through sawgrass, kayak narrow mangrove tunnels, or take a naturalist-led boat tour to spot dolphins, manatees, ospreys, and, of course, alligators. The nearby Gulf Coast Visitor Center (part of Everglades National Park) is the starting point for boat trips into the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islets that offers some of the region’s best birdwatching and backcountry camping. This is also one of Florida’s premier sportfishing hubs. Anglers head out at sunrise in search of snook, redfish, and tarpon in the tidal flats and backwaters. In town, the pace is slow and casual: you’ll find a handful of small motels, family-run fishing lodges, and a couple of waterfront restaurants where stone crab claws (in season), fresh shrimp, and key lime pie dominate the menus. Don’t expect nightlife—sunset over the mangroves is the nightly show. Everglades City makes a great base for exploring the wider region. It’s within easy driving distance of Big Cypress National Preserve and the Loop Road, where you can look for alligators and wading birds from your car, as well as the scenic Tamiami Trail toward Miami. Come prepared for heat, humidity, and insects—light clothing, sun protection, and bug spray are essential—but you’ll be rewarded with one of the most unique and untouched landscapes in the United States.

About the destination: You’ll enjoy your stay in the island paradise of Key Largo, the first of the fabulous Florida Keys and the self-proclaimed Dive Capital of the World. Key Largo is home to the world's largest artificial reef, the 510-foot USS Spiegel Grove, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef Underwater State Park and the African Queen. Everglades National Park is just a short trip away from Key Largo. Diving, snorkeling and glass-bottom boating in the clear waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary are fantastic experiences. Watersport activities in Key Largo are plentiful, including fishing, kayaking and swimming with the dolphins. Or, just relax with a tropical beverage and watch the beautiful sunsets.

About the destination: Located closer to Cuba than to Miami, Key West is Florida’s irreverent southernmost subtropical paradise, a unique confluence of history, climate, natural beauty, cultural diversity, architecture and unabashed romantic appeal.Palm-lined streets with gingerbread mansions and tin-roofed conch houses were home to Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Bishop, Robert Frost and Jimmy Buffett, a few of the famous people who discovered solace and inspiration in the island city whose Bahamian and Cuban heritage in large part was inspired by Bahamian wreckers, commercial fishermen, spongers and Cuban cigar makers.

About the destination: Discover the enchanting city of Marathon, Florida, a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the Florida Keys, USA. This picturesque destination is a haven for beach lovers, fishing enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Spend your days basking under the warm Florida sun on the pristine white sand beaches of Marathon, as the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean lap at your feet. Marathon's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the country, offering stunning views of the turquoise sea and the abundant marine life that calls it home. Marathon is also a paradise for anglers. The city is surrounded by some of the best deep-sea fishing locations in the world. Charter a boat and spend a day on the water, reeling in a variety of fish from mahi-mahi to marlin. Or, if you prefer, you can cast your line from one of the many bridges in the city, where you're likely to catch tarpon, snapper, and other local species. Nature lovers will also find plenty to love in Marathon. Visit the Turtle Hospital for a chance to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures, or take a trip to the Dolphin Research Center to learn about these intelligent marine mammals and their conservation. Marathon is also a great destination for watersports. Whether you're a seasoned scuba diver or a first-time snorkeler, the crystal-clear waters of Marathon offer a spectacular underwater world just waiting to be explored. If you prefer to stay above water, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the mangrove-lined shores of the city. In addition to its natural beauty, Marathon is home to a vibrant dining scene, with restaurants serving up everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. After a day of adventure, unwind with a cocktail at one of the city's beachfront bars and watch the sun set over the ocean. Marathon, Florida is a truly unique destination, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Marathon promises a memorable travel experience. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the magic of Marathon, Florida!

About the destination: Miami Beach is everything you've heard about, but you have to see it for yourself. Take an Art Deco tour of Miami Beach to fully appreciate the area's signature architecture. The South Beach Art Deco District is a whimsical collection of more than 800 architecturally protected buildings in Miami Beach from the 1930s and 1940s – a definite must-see. Stay in one of its boutique or throwback hotels – you'll also find some of Miami Beach's finest dining, nightlife and spas here. North Beach's Ocean Terrace is fast becoming a smaller version of South Beach, with inviting oceanfront hotels and cafés. Regardless, be sure to go for a beachside stroll or to Haulover Park for fishing, bike rides, tennis or golf. And, of course, Miami Beach’s nightlife always concludes an unforgettable vacation day.

About the destination: Fort Lauderdale is a city in thE state of Florida, on the Atlantic coast. It is the county seat of Broward County. The city is a popular tourist destination. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS - Fort Lauderdale Beach. - Downtown/Las Olas Blvd. The entertainment district runs east-west along Las Olas Boulevard. - Wilton Manors is a city surrounded by Fort Lauderdale. The busy center of the city is Wilton Drive.

About the destination: An elegant city located along Florida's Atlantic Coast, Vero Beach is a haven for golf, water sports and fishing. Peaceful beaches, museums, nature tours and a range of hotels make Vero Beach a terrific vacation destination and an important part of the region known as the Treasure Coast. Vero Beach also offers a fine selection of shops – both downtown and in large shopping malls – and delectable cuisine for all budgets. Also found in Vero Beach are museums, art galleries and many parks, some of which offer access to an enticing network of rivers and inlets.

About the destination: Cocoa Beach, along Florida's Space Coast, makes for an out-of-this-world family vacation. Your group can ride some waves, check out Cocoa Beach's world-famous pier, marvel at Ron Jon's, the world's largest surf shop, hike through nature preserves, and explore mankind's greatest journey at the nearby Kennedy Space Center. NASA's launch headquarters is the only place on Earth where you can tour launch-pad areas, meet a veteran astronaut, see giant rockets, train in spaceflight simulators and – if your timing is just right – even view a launch. Don’t miss the historic Cocoa Village of Cocoa Beach, a revitalized, nostalgic riverside community with more than 50 shops, restaurants, galleries and artist studios. And remember this: Cocoa Beach is only an hour’s drive east of Orlando, making it a great day trip for theme park visitors.

About the destination: Orlando, located in Orange County, Florida, has a lot to offer tourists, but it is safe to say that the main reason people visit Orlando is for the variety of amusement parks: Disney World, Universal Orlando, Sea World, and several other big draw entertainment places. Nonetheless, Orlando has so much more. Beautiful tree-lined neighbourhoods, a happening performing-arts scene and various excellent gardens, nature preserves and museums around the city offers visitors amusing alternatives to the theme park experience. If the outdoors is your thing, you can swim or canoe at Wekiwa Springs State Park or one of the area's many other sparkling springs. If museums are your thing, there are many and varied options such as the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art with its huge collection of Tiffany glass, or the Orlando Science Center, with hundreds of interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. The city has a very 'young at heart' attitude, and it is a melting pot of different cultures. For nightlife, there is pretty much anything you want. The downtown area has several bars and clubs for any crowd. In a nutshell, Orlando is truly a very cool town.