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Best 5 Road Trips in The Sunshine State

Whether you’re up for a crazy family adventure, a romantic getaway or just a little relaxation, the Sunshine State has much to offer. When you mention Florida, most people think theme parks and beaches. However, there’s more to see than Mickey Mouse.

Here are 5 road trips to consider, brought to you by all of us at Pacific Nissan Body Shop. If you want to get out of San Diego, CA this summer, maybe a Florida road trip is the best way to go.

1.) Miami to Key West

Starting out in Miami’s South Beach, you’ll drive through the native mangroves. Following U.S. 1, consider taking the time to dive at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo before continuing on your journey. Along the way, you’ll pass Lorelei’s, a Bayfront roadhouse that offers seafood and live music while watching the sunset. There are areas to swim with dolphins before crossing Seven Mile Bridge into Key West. 

2.) Apalachicola to Tallahassee

Known as the oyster capital of the world, Apalachicola is filled with historic homes and buildings. A short drive away, you’ll find St. George Island, often rated one of the top beaches in the country. Continuing on Highway 98, you’ll pass Wakulla Springs State Park, and then have the opportunity to stand up paddle board in the Wakulla River before reaching Tallahassee.

3.) Eustis to Palatka

Along Highway 19 in Central Florida, you’ll find Ocala National Forest, the second largest national forest in the state. Covering 650+ square miles, the forest has more than 600 natural lakes and ponds. Many in this area talk about Salt Springs and the legendary “Fountain of Youth.” Reportedly, it is the only place where you can find certain minerals and trace elements that are said to slow aging. Your journey continues onto Palatka located on the south side of St. Johns River, the longest river in the state.

4.) Pensacola to Panama City Beach

Starting out from the waterfront city of Pensacola, one of the earliest European settlements in the U.S., a 15-mile drive on State Road 399 will take you through Gulf Islands National Seashore with soft white beaches and shimmering water. Follow Highway 98 and you’ll arrive at Fort Walton Beach, filled with family-friendly resorts and attractions such as museums, aquariums and parks. Nearby is Destin, known as the “world’s luckiest fishing village.” Further on, Panama City Beach, with its warm Gulf waters, offers a wide range of activities for all ages who come to visit. 

5.) St. Augustine to Daytona Beach

Called the “Nation’s Oldest City,” St. Augustine is a unique getaway for those who come to visit. With historic landmarks, such as the oldest wooden schoolhouse and Castillo de San Marcos, there is something to keep all ages busy. There are only 50 miles between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach, home of the Daytona International Speedway. If you have time to stop along with way, there are interesting sites to see such as Fort Matanzas and Marineland Dolphin Adventure. Make sure to enjoy the view of the Atlantic!

Sources: visitflorida.com, AOL and Yahoo