Florida solo travel is about freedom, fun, and variety. Come along for the ultimate guide to use for your awesome trip in the United States.
As one of the best solo travel destinations, the Sunshine State gives you a lot. From Miami’s art scene to relaxing Gulf towns, it’s a rewarding solo trip.
In this guide, we will explore lively cities, relax on gorgeous beaches, enjoy delicious food, and dive into nature.
And best of all? At your own pace!
So, if you’re planning a trip to this amazing destination, keep reading.
Florida Solo Travel
This is one of the best places to visit in the USA. As a result, your Florida solo travel is a going to be rewarding and versatile experience.
For example, you can expect a dynamic mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. Everything from beach sunsets and interesting cities to unique historic sites and incredible wildlife encounters.
In other words, your trip is full of freedom, flavorful food, scenic beauty, and personal time to reflect. And all in a welcoming, sun-soaked setting perfect for exploring on your own.
Of course, there are practical things to keep in mind. For instance, non-Americans need a valid passport and may require a visa or ESTA (for Visa Waiver Program countries) to enter the country.
Check requirements based on your nationality before booking. I would say make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay, and carry travel insurance and return flight proof.
Meanwhile, you should know that Miami International Airport (MIA) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) are Florida’s main hubs. Both have easy connections to public transportation.
For example, MIA links directly to trains and buses via the Miami Intermodal Center, while MCO connects to Brightline high-speed rail and local buses.
If you want to travel between cities, the state public transportation includes Brightline. This is a high-speed train connecting Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando.
Amtrak is another train that also runs long-distance across the state. It’s perfect if you’re visiting neighboring states, for example.
And there are also buses. Greyhound and FlixBus are affordable bus travel option between major cities.
The rest we will cover in their sections.
When to Visit
Whether planning a Miami solo travel or a trip to visit the alligators, the best time to visit Florida definitely depends on your needs.
For example, the general best time to visit Florida is from November to April. This is a period of the year when the weather is mild, sunny, and less humid.
In my opinion, these months are perfect for a solo trip. For instance, great for Miami beach outings, kayaking in clear springs, or exploring national parks like the Everglades.
Winter also brings popular events such as Art Basel in Miami and festivals in Tampa and Orlando.
Spring, on the other hand, is ideal for the nature lover. For example, expect wildflower blooms and visiting theme parks with smaller crowds.
Meanwhile, I would say avoid the summer. This is from June to October. It’s hot, rainy, and the height of hurricane season, though it’s still popular for beach trips and family-oriented attractions.
Plus, when you visit certain time of the year, it feels so unique. For example, a visit during Christmas here is awesome!
So, yeah, plan your Florida solo travel with all of that in mind.
Where to Stay
Miami neighborhoods for a quick stay? Oh, yes. Florida has a variety of cities that cater well to solo travelers.
Best part? Each of them has its own unique vibe and set of attractions.
Of course, Miami is a top choice. This is especially the case for those seeking a lively, cosmopolitan experience.
Solo travelers stay in South Beach for easy beach access and nightlife or opt for Wynwood for its colorful street art, galleries, and trendy cafés.
Miami is also great for solo-friendly tours, like boat rides or food walks through Little Havana.
Similarly, Orlando is perfect for some solo travelers. For example, if you’re interested in theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
Many hotels on International Drive focus on solo tourists, and single-rider lines make it easy to enjoy rides without waiting long.
There are also museums, shopping outlets, and entertainment districts like ICON Park to explore on your own. As a solo traveler, you will absolutely love ICON Park!
For a quieter, more historical stay, St. Augustine has a peaceful atmosphere. This historic town is filled with cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts.
And St. Augustine is also very walkable and great for solo photography, ghost tours, or just enjoying a slower pace.
Meanwhile, Tampa is another major city to add to your list. This town is a balance of urban and coastal experiences.
Neighborhoods like Ybor City and Hyde Park are full of local eateries, boutiques, and cultural sites. For example, I really liked Hyde Park!
The city is also near beaches and has a strong food and arts scene, making it an appealing solo base.
And Key West is another great place. This town is ideal for a tropical, laid-back escape. With its small size, it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Plus, you will get to enjoy snorkeling, sunset cruises, or simply relaxing at local cafés and beach spots.
So, for your Florida solo travel, you have each of these cities offering you safe, engaging, and enriching experiences.
Florida Solo Travel Foods
A foodie solo trip is on in Florida! The state’s food scene is a diverse and delicious adventure for solo travelers.
First of all, you will find classic American food. For example, expect fresh seafood platters, fried grouper sandwiches, and juicy burgers at coastal diners.
Of course, ethnic food is everywhere. Cuban cuisine is awesome in Miami and Tampa. I invite you to try the staples like ropa vieja, black beans, and iconic Cuban sandwiches.
However, that is not all. Vietnamese pho, Haitian griot, and Colombian arepas are also everywhere in cities like Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.
Oh, and food trucks and street vendors, too. For instance, I love the quick bites, perfect for solo eaters on the go.
And, for something upscale, try gourmet dining in Naples or farm-to-table restaurants in St. Petersburg and Sarasota. For example, expect delicious stuff featuring local ingredients and creative menus.
And, please, don’t miss Southern staples. Try popular stuff like shrimp and grits or key lime pie for dessert.
For your Florida solo travel, you have a mix of flavors, from international to coastal comfort food.
What to Do & See
Have some solo adventure ideas? The chances are that you will find it in Florida!
Honestly, this state has endless things to do and see. For example, there is a ton of natural beauty, culture, and adventure.
Beach lovers enjoy unwinding on the sugar-white sands of Siesta Key or catch a sunrise in Miami’s South Beach.
Another great trip is for nature enthusiasts. For instance, you will get to enjoy kayaking in Crystal River with manatees, hiking in Ocala National Forest, or exploring Everglades National Park on an airboat tour.
And history buffs? So much to do and see! For example, you will get to stroll the cobbled streets of St. Augustine, the oldest U.S. city, or tour Hemingway’s home in Key West.
Meanwhile, in Orlando, solo visitors experience the magic of Walt Disney World or Universal Studios. Oh, and both of which are perfect for single riders.
Art lovers explore the colorful murals of Wynwood Walls in Miami or the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg. Wynwood is out of this world!
For a peaceful retreat, visit the Bok Tower Gardens or catch a sunset at Clearwater Beach. I absolutely loved the Bok Tower Gardens.
In other words, your Florida solo travel means wide-ranging attractions that keep you inspired and entertained throughout your trip.
Florida Solo Travel Shopping
Need some travel shopping? Florida is home to a varied shopping experience for solo travelers, from high-end malls to unique local finds.
For example, in Miami, you will get to explore the luxe shops of Brickell City Centre. Or, the open-air Bal Harbour Shops for designer fashion.
And there is Lincoln Road, in South Beach. This street is full of new brands to discover!
For more affordable deals, Orlando’s Premium Outlets is great. For example, expect major brands at discounted prices.
Of course, boutique lovers enjoy the indie stores in St. Augustine’s historic district. Another great place is the artsy shops in Sarasota’s Rosemary District.
Plus, art is in the air with shopping in this state. For example, Wynwood and Coconut Grove in Miami are ideal for browsing handmade jewelry, local art, and sustainable fashion.
Florida also has amazing ethnic shopping. Little Havana and Little Haiti in Miami feature markets filled with Cuban cigars, Caribbean spices, and Afro-Caribbean crafts.
And Tampa’s Ybor City is another hotspot for locally made goods and cultural souvenirs. For example, coral jewelry!
That is, your Florida solo travel makes shopping a fun and personalized experience to explore local style and culture.
Florida Solo Travel Itinerary
As part of your solo travel checklist, you will want to plan your trip to this sunny state. So, use this 14-day Florida solo travel itinerary.
On day one, arrive in Miami, and settle into a boutique hotel in South Beach. Spend the afternoon walking along Ocean Drive or relaxing on the beach.
In the evening, enjoy a Cuban dinner in Little Havana and catch live music on Calle Ocho.
On day two, explore Wynwood’s street art, indie shops, and cafes. Visit the Pérez Art Museum or take a boat tour of Biscayne Bay. Wrap up the day with rooftop dining and a view of the Miami skyline.
On day three, drive south to Key West, stopping along the Overseas Highway for scenic views.
On day four, explore the island by bike, visit the Hemingway House, snorkel off Dry Tortugas, and watch the famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square.
Then, on day five, begin your journey north with a stop at Everglades National Park. Take an airboat tour and spot alligators and exotic birds, then stay overnight in nearby Naples.
On day six, enjoy Naples’ calm beaches and fine dining.
Continue to Sarasota on day seven, where you can visit the Ringling Museum, shop in the Rosemary District, and unwind at Siesta Key Beach.
On day eight, head to St. Petersburg, exploring the Dali Museum and downtown boutiques.
And, on day nine, travel to Orlando, and spend day ten at either Universal Studios or Disney World, taking advantage of solo rider perks.
On day eleven, explore Orlando’s food scene, outlet shopping, and Lake Eola.
Then, on day twelve, travel to St. Augustine for cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and ghost tours.
On day thirteen, take your time visiting Castillo de San Marcos, the Lightner Museum, and local artisan shops.
On day fourteen, return to Miami or Jacksonville for your flight home, wrapping up your Florida solo travel trip filled with nature, history, food, and sun-soaked memories.
What to Avoid
Solo travel hacks help us to get the inside scoop. So, for a smooth and enjoyable Florida solo travel experience, there are a few things to avoid.
First, steer clear of visiting during peak hurricane season. This would be June to October when unpredictable weather may disrupt plans.
Like anywhere else in the world, you definitely want to avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night. This is especially if you’re walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Of course, while exploring nightlife spots like South Beach or Key West, stay aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings. This is because tourist-heavy areas attract pickpockets.
Also, be cautious about overpacking your itinerary. Florida’s heat and traffic will be draining, so allow yourself time to rest.
Meanwhile, I would definitely say avoid swimming in unfamiliar lakes or canals. This is particularly in Central or South Florida, as they may have alligators.
If renting a car, avoid toll roads without a SunPass. I really didn’t like this because I faced high rental fees.
And, of course, skip overpriced tourist traps. Rather, seek out local food spots and shops instead.
So, yeah, staying alert, flexible, and informed will help keep your trip fun and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap this up, I want to reiterate that a Florida solo travel is a great experience. This is because it has a lot to offer.
For example, there is freedom, variety, and ease. You will get to have the chance to relax on beautiful beaches, explore unique cities, enjoy diverse food, and connect with nature.
And, as I said earlier, the best is that you get to do all at your own pace.
The state is solo-friendly, with good transit, welcoming locals, and plenty of safe, amazing places to discover alone.
So, if you’re planning a trip, use this guide to help you put together your own memorable trip to the Sunshine State!
AJ Paris is a travel photographer based in New York. He is the editor of Caravanzers.
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