Best Places to Stop on a East Coast Florida Road Trip
Easy, breezy, beachy fun—just the way a Florida road trip should be.
If you’re dreaming of palm trees, ocean views, and no-stress travel vibes, you’re in the right place. This Florida road trip itinerary down the East Coast is your perfect excuse to unwind, explore, and maybe sip a fruity drink (or two).
From Amelia Island to Miami, this East Coast Florida road trip is packed with beach towns, nature escapes, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting—but not overwhelming. Whether you’re planning a week-long drive or just hopping between weekend getaways, this trip is all about easy stops, beautiful views, and good vibes.
Table of Contents
1. Amelia Island – Fernandina Beach
Kick off your journey on a peaceful note.
- Historic downtown + waterfront charm
- Boutique shops and easy coastal eats
- Fort Clinch State Park for a touch of history and nature
Relaxation tip: Book a beachfront resort and watch the waves do the work.
2. Big & Little Talbot Island State Parks
Let nature set the tone. These parks are uncrowded and picture-perfect.
- Beachcombing, biking, and birdwatching
- Super chill, budget-friendly, and off the beaten path
- Address: 12157 Heckscher Dr & A1A North, Jacksonville, FL
Pro tip: Pack a picnic, park your stress, and breathe in that salty air.
3. Huguenot Drive-On Beach – Jacksonville
Ever wanted to literally drive on the beach? Now’s your chance. Huguenot Beach is not the only beach you can drive on the east coast of the Sunshine State. It is however, the lesser known and the best hidden gem between Amelia Island and Jacksonville Beach.
- One of Jacksonville’s hidden gems
- White sand, sea breeze, and car-friendly shoreline
- Address: 10980 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL
GPS heads-up: Make sure you plug in the correct park—there are two with similar names!
4. Ride the Mayport Ferry for Fun.
Tiny trip, big fun. Take the scenic route on the Mayport Ferry on the St. Johns River. While enjoying this peaceful view be on the lookout for the occasional dolphin.
- Scenic, short ferry ride across the St. Johns River
- Relax while your car does the traveling
- Address: 4780 Ocean St, Atlantic Beach, FL
- Cost: $7 weekdays / $8 weekends
5. Neptune & Atlantic Beach Town Center
This little area packs in the charm. Neptune and Atlantic beaches are a very small area that is charming and is a wonderful place to stop for a bite to eat.
- Walkable beach town with cute shops & restaurants
- Chill beach bars and sunset strolls
- Perfect pitstop to stretch and snack
6. Jacksonville Beach For Nightlife and a Younger Crowd
We always stay on the beaches of Jacksonville on our way down the coast. Jax Beach has long been Steve and I’s go-to weekend trip destination. Jax Beach has some really great hotels at reasonable prices, outstanding restaurants and bars, and a great nightlife scene.
- Wide, uncrowded beaches, but a lively nightlife. Definitely more of a younger crowd.
- Great restaurants and hotels like Margaritaville & Hampton Inn Oceanfront
- Oceanfront tiki bars and lazy resort pools
Mr. Jax Approved: Pet-friendly hotels make this a hit for dog-lovers, too!
7. Scenic A1A Drive – Dream Homes and Coastal Daydreams
This stretch of A1A between Jacksonville Beach and St. Augustine is chef’s kiss—a highlight of any Florida road trip.
Massive beach homes, sweeping ocean views, and quiet shoreline roads make it a drive to remember. If you spot someone cruising slowly with stars in their eyes, it might be me—daydreaming about hitting the lottery and buying one of those dreamy oceanfront homes.
Travel tip: Roll the windows down, take it slow, and enjoy the ride. It’s pure coastal bliss.
- 24 miles of palm tree lined dreamy coastline
- Stop for nature preserves and beach pull-offs
- Take it slow and roll down the windows with some music playing.
8. St. Augustine – America’s Oldest (and Coolest) City
No East Coast Florida road trip is complete without a stop in St. Augustine—America’s oldest city and easily one of the most charming.
There’s so much to do here: historic forts, museums, ghost tours, walkable cobblestone streets, and incredible eats. Travel tip: Plan extra time for this stop. You could easily spend a full week exploring and still not hit every attraction.
From the Castillo de San Marcos to the Fountain of Youth, St. Augustine blends history with laid-back Florida vibes—making it a favorite for all kinds of travelers..
Writer note: Traffic and parking in St. Augustine downtown can be an issue during events and high season.
- History, ghost tours, and coastal vibes
- St. Francis Inn is one of our favorite stays for those looking to stay at a historic Bed and Breakfast.
- Don’t rush—there’s so much to do (or not do, if you’d rather nap!)
9. Daytona Beach (Popular—But Not My Favorite)
Daytona Beach is one of the most well-known stops on any Florida road trip—famous for its drive-on beaches, the Daytona International Speedway, and a bar scene that draws big crowds.
Personal note: I know a lot of people love Daytona… but I’m not one of them. To me, it feels overbuilt, busy, and lacks the charm I look for in a beach town.
That said, Daytona is incredibly popular, so it might be worth a quick stop to check out the beach or catch a race if it’s your thing.
👉 Prefer something quieter and more Old Florida? Stop 30 minutes North at Flagler Beach. It’s chill, quirky and has unique cinnamon colored sand.
- Daytona has a Drive on the beach (yes, really)
- Daytona Speedway tours for racing fans
- Oceanfront bars + boardwalk energy
10. Cocoa Beach – Rockets, Waves, and Laid-Back Vibes
Space nerds and beach bums, this one’s for you.
Cocoa Beach blends surf shops, cruise ports, and all things space into one unforgettable stop on your East Coast Florida road trip. It’s part chill beach town, part launchpad to the stars.
Plan it right, and you might be standing barefoot in the sand watching a rocket soar across the sky. Yes—you can see launches from the beach, and it’s just as incredible as it sounds.
Add in the Cocoa Beach Pier, local seafood joints, and nearby Kennedy Space Center, and this stop delivers big on both fun and fascination.
- Visit the Cocoa Beach Pier for drinks, shops, and sunsets
- Kennedy Space Center is a must
- Rocket launches? If you’re lucky!
11. Melbourne – Old Florida Vibes, New Favorite Stop
If you’re craving Old Florida charm and easy living, Melbourne is your spot.
What I love most? It’s the vibe. Melbourne Beach is calm, uncrowded, and totally laid-back—a refreshing change from some of the busier stops on your Florida road trip.
Venture into downtown and you’ll find a mix of local shops, cozy cafés, and no-fuss dining that makes this town feel welcoming and easy. It’s the kind of place where you can truly slow down and enjoy the moment.
- Fewer crowds, more calm
- A perfect spot to just relax with a beachy drink in hand
12. Vero Beach – Laid-Back, Artsy, and Underrated
Vero Beach is one of those under-the-radar stops on a Florida road trip that still feels like a secret. It’s got that classic Old Florida charm with just the right touch of polish.
This relaxed coastal town offers:
- Quiet, uncrowded beaches perfect for sunrise walks and shell hunting
- A walkable downtown with boutique shops, art galleries, and farmers markets
- Outdoor dining spots with live music and a welcoming local vibe
- A slower pace that helps you truly unwind
One of the top highlights is McKee Botanical Garden—an 18-acre tropical paradise filled with lush paths, exotic flowers, and total serenity. It’s a must-stop for nature lovers and anyone craving a peaceful break.
If you’re looking for a chill, artsy escape on your East Coast Florida road trip, Vero Beach checks all the boxes.
- McKee Botanical Gardens = floral magic
- Art galleries, boutique shopping, and quiet vibes
- Great for a slower-paced afternoon
13. Jupiter – Coastal Adventure in One of Florida’s Hidden Gems
Jupiter might not get as much hype as Miami or Key West, but it’s quietly one of the most popular Florida travel destinations for those in the know. It’s where laid-back luxury meets outdoor adventure, with beautiful beaches and nature preserves that feel untouched.
Whether you want to stay active or just soak up the scenery, Jupiter has it all:
- Paddleboarding and kayaking through scenic waterways
- Wildlife watching at parks and nature centers
- Boating and fishing in the Jupiter Inlet
- Gorgeous, low-key beaches with soft sand and clear water
One of the town’s standout attractions is the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum. The views from the top are stunning, and the historic vibe adds a unique touch to this beachy escape.
Jupiter is the perfect mix of relaxed and refined, making it a favorite for travelers who want something more peaceful than the party scene—but just as memorable. Add this stop to your East Coast Florida road trip and thank yourself later.
Address:
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse: 500 Captain Armours Way, Jupiter, FL 33469
14. Boca Raton – Where the Palm Trees Talk Like Me 🌴🗣️
As a Jersey Girl now living in Tennessee, finding a Florida town where everyone sounds like me is a rare and magical thing—and that’s exactly why I love Boca Raton.
This upscale beach town in Palm Beach County is polished, posh, and full of New Jersey accents, just like home. From the moment I hear a “cawfee” or “youse guys” while walking past Mizner Park, I know I’m in the right place.
But it’s not just the accent—Boca brings the beachy luxury in all the best ways:
- Beautiful resorts and beaches
- Fancy shops and oceanfront views
- Great restaurants and even better happy hours
Speaking of happy hour, you’ll probably find Steve and me living our best lives at Max’s Grille, sipping something fruity and people-watching like pros. (It’s a top-tier spot—don’t skip it.)
If your Florida road trip needs a little glamour and a touch of Jersey sass, Boca Raton is your place.
15. Deerfield Beach – Easy Deep Sea Fishing 🎣
Fishing without stress (or experience)? Yes, please.
Steve and I spent my 50th birthday in Deerfield Beach and booked a deep sea fishing excursion—and it was a blast! No fancy gear, no pressure, just good vibes out on the Atlantic.
Charters here are super beginner-friendly, and some even offer discounts (we found one for just $99 per person). Whether you’re reeling in the big one or just soaking up the sea breeze, it’s a fun way to break up the drive.
Tip: If you’re new to fishing, let the crew know—they’ll walk you through everything.
- Easy charters from the pier
- Ours cost just $99 per person
- Great way to add adventure to your lazy day
16. Fort Lauderdale – Sun, Fun, and a Little Fancy
If you’re looking for Florida destinations that mix sun-soaked beaches with a touch of glam, Fort Lauderdale checks every box.
This iconic beach vacation hotspot has it all:
- Sparkling waterfronts and yacht-lined canals
- Trendy beach bars and rooftop restaurants
- Las Olas Boulevard for shopping, strolling, and sipping
- Must-sees like Bonnet House Museum, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Sun, fun, and a little fancy really is the vibe here. It’s stylish, but still easygoing. You can pack a bathing suit and a sundress, and you’re good to go.
Whether you’re lounging on the sand, cruising the Intracoastal, or just enjoying the salty air with a cocktail in hand—Fort Lauderdale is one of those Florida beach vacation spots that feels like a little reward mid-road trip.
Tip: Plan extra time here. You won’t want to leave.
- Las Olas Blvd, Bonnet House, and laid-back luxury
- Great for nightlife, art, and beach lounging
- Plan a few extra hours—you’ll want them
17. Hollywood, FL – Beach by Day, Blackjack by Night ♠️🌴
Hollywood, Florida may have beautiful beaches, but let’s be real—this stop on your Florida road trip is all about the casinos. If you love a little action, this is where the fun really kicks in.
The big draw here? The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino—a massive resort and entertainment hub shaped like a giant guitar (yes, it’s as cool as it sounds). It’s glitzy, lively, and perfect for travelers who like their beach vacation with a side of blackjack.
Play responsibly, of course—but don’t be surprised if time flies once the dice start rolling.
One of our favorite surprises on this route! Maybe it’s because Steve and I love to gamble.
Did we win in Hollywood? Nope.
Did we still have a blast? Absolutely.
Bonus: If you need a beach break between poker hands, Hollywood Beach has a gorgeous boardwalk and a laid-back local vibe worth checking out.
18. Miami – Go Big, Then Go Even Bigger 🎨🍹🌴
You made it to Miami—the grand finale of your East Coast Florida road trip! This city brings the heat, the glam, and the energy, so get ready to turn up the vacation vibes. Writers Note: Maimi is a very expensive place to stay and vacation. If big city on the ocean is what you crave, this is the place but come prepared to spend money. No joke!
Want to end your trip on a high note? Miami delivers with:
- South Beach – iconic vibes, Art Deco buildings, and mojitos that hit just right
- Wynwood Walls – bold murals, street art, and creative energy everywhere you look
- Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – for when you need a break from the buzz and want a slower, classier stroll
Whether you’re here for the beach, the food, the nightlife, or the people-watching (hello, celebrities), Miami is where you go big.
Bonus round? Keep cruising and extend your Florida road trip all the way down to the Florida Keys—because why stop when the adventure’s this good?
Final tip: Miami is fabulous—but chaotic. Plan a few days here, then unwind again in the Keys.
19 Bonus: Drive from Miami to Key West
End your Florida road trip in true paradise. Why not extend the fun and find more unbelievable travel locations. Learn more about Key West, Florida.
- Cruise across the Overseas Highway
- Stop for conch fritters and quirky shops
- Visit the Hemingway House and hop on a sunset sail
Sample 7-Day East Coast Florida Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Amelia Island
Day 2: St. Augustine
Day 3: St. Augustine
Day 4: Cocoa Beach
Day 5: Fort Lauderdale
Day 6: Miami
Day 7: Key West (optional add-on)
Why You’ll Love This East Coast Florida Road Trip
- No overplanning needed—just follow the coast
- Easy access from I-95 and A1A
- Tons of free or low-cost activities
- Relaxing resorts, beachfront bars, and nature stops everywhere
This trip is all about sunshine, spontaneity, and slowing down. So grab your flip-flops, load up the car, and hit the road. The Florida East Coast is waiting—and it’s as easygoing as it gets.
