Interested in weekend getaways not far from Miami? Will Smith didn’t singlehandedly make Miami famous, but it didn’t hurt. And while this Florida city certainly has much to do, sometimes it’s necessary to take the path less traveled. Here are a few destinations not far from Miami that will satisfy your urge to get away.
Naples – About 2 hours from Miami
About two hours across to the west coast of Florida lies Naples. The hushed atmosphere offers a glimpse into the state about a hundred years ago. Wealthy snowbirds maintain their stakes in opulent mansions in the downtown region. For this same luxury during your stay, consider a suite at Naples Grande. You’ll enjoy oversized rooms and balconies, as well as permission to access the hidden beach. You’ll find chic boutiques all along the pristine avenues here. The port is still in operation, so the seafood digs are fantastic. After your fill of exploring, fill up on oysters or crab at the Dock at Crayton Cove.
St. Petersburg – About 4 hours from Miami
Just shy of a four-hour drive from Miami, you’ll arrive in St. Petersburg. There’s nowhere else in the state where the Florida “essence” is purer. The gulf beaches and relaxed atmosphere allow you to leave your worries at the city line. If you need a little more decompressing after the drive, immediately aim for the Paradise Grille, the perfect spot for diner food, cold drinks, and island-themed acoustic music. Fill the rest of your time at either Honeymoon Island State Park or Caldesi Island State Park – they’re two of the best waterfronts in St. Pete. If you enjoy the arts scene, St. Pete’s got it – enjoy the Dali Museum or Imagine Museum.
Middle Keys – About 3 hours from Miami
When you hear the word “keys” in Florida, most people immediately think of Jimmy Buffet and Key West. That’s only a 3.5-hour drive from Miami, but many people get to the Upper Keys and call it a day, making the Upper Keys rather chock full of tourists. Instead of stopping there or going as far as Key West, opt for the middle-of-the-road (quite literally) and head to Middle Keys near Marathon. You can spearfish with a local charter service or get your suntan on at Bahia Honda State Park. These sandy beaches are rare in these parts. Laborers from the Bahamas helped build the road you drove in on, so take a pause to check out Adderley House to see what life was like for them in the late 1900s. You can get to the Middle Keys in less than three hours. Check in at Isla Bella sitting on 24 acres.
Ready to take one of these weekend getaways not far from Miami? Where will your Florida adventure take you?
A Route 66 Road Trip