What’s Close to Florida? 15 Must-Visit Destinations in 2025 🌴


Video: How close is Florida to Miami? -KSI.







Picture this: you’re lounging on a sun-drenched beach, the ocean breeze teasing your hair, and you realize you’re just a short hop away from some of the most stunning islands and vibrant cities in the world. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that dream starts right here in Florida! Whether you’re craving a quick island escape to the Bahamas, a cultural dive into Cuba, or a scenic road trip through Georgia’s charming towns, Florida’s location is your ultimate launchpad for adventure.

In this guide, we’ll uncover 15 incredible destinations close to Florida—from tropical islands and cruise ports to hidden gems within the state itself. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on how to make the most of your trip, including travel hacks and must-see spots you might not have heard of. Ready to unlock Florida’s best-kept secrets? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Florida is a gateway to the Caribbean, with islands like The Bahamas just 50 miles away and quick flights to Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, and more.
  • Cruise lovers rejoice! Florida’s ports offer easy access to top destinations like the Bahamas, Mexico, and the wider Caribbean.
  • Road trip enthusiasts can explore neighboring states like Georgia and Alabama for unique culture and scenic beauty.
  • Within Florida itself, gems like the Everglades and the Florida Keys provide unforgettable day trips and weekend escapes.
  • Travel smart: some destinations require special paperwork (like Cuba), and peak seasons can get busy, so plan ahead!

Ready to start your adventure? Explore top resorts, cruises, and travel guides here:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Florida’s Proximity

Looking for a weekend getaway in Florida? Check out our article on weekend Florida getaways for inspiration. As residents of the Sunshine State, we at Florida Getaways™ are excited to share our knowledge of the best destinations near Florida. Whether you’re looking for a beach escape, a budget-friendly trip, or a family adventure, we’ve got you covered.

Proximity to the Caribbean

Did you know that the Caribbean islands are as little as 50 miles from the U.S. coast? According to Travelmath, you can find cities and towns within 20 miles of Florida City, FL. The closest Caribbean island to the U.S. is Nassau, The Bahamas, with a flight duration of just 50 minutes from Miami.

Nearby Cities and Towns

If you’re looking for a quick road trip, consider visiting nearby cities like Georgia or Alabama. For more information on road trips from Florida, check out our article on road trips from Florida. You can also explore local towns near Florida City, FL, for a feel of the local community.

🗺️ Florida’s Strategic Location: A Gateway to Global Adventures


Video: The U.S. East Coast: Florida – The Sunshine State.








Florida’s strategic location makes it an ideal gateway to global adventures. With its proximity to the Caribbean and Latin America, you can easily explore island hopping destinations like The Bahamas, Cuba, and Jamaica. For more information on island hopping, check out our article on island hopping in the Caribbean.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re looking for theme parks and attractions, consider visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven, which is about an hour from both Orlando and Tampa. The resort features LEGOLAND, LEGOLAND Water Park, PEPPA PIG Theme Park, and SEA LIFE Florida. You can purchase tickets and passes on the LEGOLAND Florida website.

✈️ Island Hopping Dreams: The Caribbean’s Closest Gems to Florida


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The Caribbean offers a diverse range of island hopping destinations, each with its unique culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some of the closest gems to Florida:

  1. The Bahamas: With a flight duration of just 50 minutes from Miami, The Bahamas is an ideal destination for a quick getaway. You can visit Nassau, Exuma, or Bimini for a relaxing beach vacation.
  2. Cuba: Located just 90 miles from Key West, Cuba is a fascinating destination with a rich history and culture. You can explore Havana, Varadero, or Santiago de Cuba for a unique experience.
  3. Jamaica: With a flight duration of just 1 hour and 37 minutes from Miami, Jamaica is a popular destination for reggae music and dancehall. You can visit Kingston, Montego Bay, or Negril for a fun-filled vacation.
  4. Turks & Caicos: Located just 1 hour and 50 minutes from Miami, Turks & Caicos is a beautiful island chain with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. You can visit Providenciales or Grand Turk for a relaxing getaway.
  5. Cayman Islands: With a flight duration of just 1 hour and 29 minutes from Miami, the Cayman Islands are a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. You can visit Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, or Little Cayman for a unique experience.
  6. Dominican Republic: Located just 2 hours from Miami, the Dominican Republic is a popular destination for beach lovers. You can visit Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, or Puerto Plata for a fun-filled vacation.
  7. Puerto Rico: With a flight duration of just 2 hours and 30 minutes from Miami, Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory with a rich history and culture. You can visit San Juan, El Yunque, or Fajardo for a unique experience.

🚢 Set Sail! Top Cruise Destinations from Florida’s Ports


Video: Cruise ship sets sail from Florida.








If you’re looking for a relaxing cruise vacation, consider sailing from one of Florida’s ports. Here are some top cruise destinations from Florida:

  • The Bahamas: With its proximity to Florida, The Bahamas is a popular destination for cruise ships. You can visit Nassau, Princess Cays, or Freeport for a fun-filled vacation.
  • Caribbean Islands: The Caribbean offers a diverse range of islands, each with its unique culture and natural beauty. You can visit Jamaica, Grand Cayman, or St. Maarten for a unique experience.
  • Mexico: With its rich history and culture, Mexico is a popular destination for cruise ships. You can visit Cozumel, Cancun, or Tulum for a fun-filled vacation.

🚗 Road Trip Ready: Exploring Florida’s U.S. Neighbors


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If you’re looking for a road trip adventure, consider exploring Florida’s U.S. neighbors. Here are some top destinations:

  1. Georgia: With its southern charm and mountain majesty, Georgia is a popular destination for road trippers. You can visit Atlanta, Savannah, or Blue Ridge for a unique experience.
  2. Alabama: Located just west of Florida, Alabama is a popular destination for its Gulf Shores and civil rights history. You can visit Gulf Shores, Montgomery, or Birmingham for a fun-filled vacation.

🇲🇽 Hola, Mexico! Quick Flights to Our Southern Neighbor


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With its rich history and culture, Mexico is a popular destination for travelers. Here are some quick flights to Mexico from Florida:

  • Cancun: With a flight duration of just 2 hours and 30 minutes from Miami, Cancun is a popular destination for beach lovers. You can visit Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen for a fun-filled vacation.
  • Cozumel: Located just off the coast of Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can visit Cozumel or San Miguel for a unique experience.

🌴 Florida’s Own Backyard: Incredible Day Trips and Weekend Getaways Within the State


Video: Best Weekend Getaways In Florida | 8 Amazing Places In Florida For A Short Vacation.








If you’re looking for a quick getaway within Florida, consider exploring our own backyard. Here are some incredible day trips and weekend getaways:

  • Key West: With its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Key West is a popular destination for day trippers. You can visit Duval Street, Mallory Square, or Fort Zachary Taylor for a fun-filled day.
  • Everglades: Located just west of Miami, the Everglades is a unique ecosystem with a diverse range of wildlife. You can visit Everglades National Park or Shark Valley for a fun-filled day.

Video: Essential Travel Safety Tips: Protect yourself on your next adventure!







Before you embark on your next adventure, here are some essential travel tips to keep in mind:

  • Research: Research your destination thoroughly to ensure you’re prepared for your trip.
  • Plan: Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time.
  • Pack: Pack wisely to ensure you have everything you need for your trip.
  • Stay safe: Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings and taking necessary precautions.

For more travel tips and inspiration, check out our article on travel tips.

🎉 Conclusion: Your Florida Getaway Awaits!

Kindness is fucking cool

Well, there you have it — a treasure trove of destinations and experiences just a hop, skip, and a jump from Florida! Whether you’re craving the turquoise waters of The Bahamas, the vibrant culture of Cuba, or a road trip through Georgia’s charming towns, Florida’s location is your golden ticket to endless adventures. 🌴✈️

Positives:
✅ Florida’s proximity to the Caribbean means you can enjoy tropical island vibes without the hassle of long flights.
✅ The state’s own backyard offers incredible day trips and weekend escapes, perfect for spontaneous explorers.
✅ Multiple cruise ports and airports make travel planning a breeze.

Negatives:
❌ Some destinations like Cuba require extra paperwork and travel considerations.
❌ Peak seasons can get crowded, so planning ahead is key.

At Florida Getaways™, we confidently recommend embracing Florida as your launchpad for unforgettable trips — whether it’s a quick weekend beach escape or an international island-hopping spree. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the gems close to Florida that are just waiting to be discovered! 🌞🌊

Ready to start planning? Here are some handy links to help you book your next adventure and dive deeper into the destinations we covered:

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Florida’s Neighbors Answered

map of florida and surrounding states countries

What are the best day trips from Florida?

Florida offers a bounty of day trips perfect for every taste. From the historic streets of St. Augustine (the oldest city in the U.S.) to the wild Everglades National Park, and the vibrant Wynwood Walls in Miami, you can easily escape the hustle and bustle without venturing far. For beach lovers, the Florida Keys and Clearwater Beach are unbeatable. Check out our day trips guide for insider tips.

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Are there any beautiful islands near Florida?

Absolutely! The Bahamas are the crown jewels closest to Florida, with islands like Bimini just 50 miles away. Other stunning spots include Turks & Caicos, Cayman Islands, and Jamaica. Each offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique cultural experiences. For a U.S. territory vibe with Caribbean flair, Puerto Rico is also a fantastic choice.

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Besides Florida’s own hotspots like Orlando’s theme parks and Miami’s vibrant nightlife, popular nearby destinations include Nassau in The Bahamas, Havana in Cuba, and Montego Bay in Jamaica. Cruise travelers often flock to these ports for their accessibility and variety of activities.

Read more about “Where Is the Cheapest Beach Vacation in Florida? Top 10 Spots (2025) 🏖️”

Are there any national parks close to Florida?

Yes! The Everglades National Park is a must-see, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing and unique ecosystems. Just north, Congaree National Park in South Carolina and Great Smoky Mountains National Park (a bit farther) offer lush forests and hiking adventures. Don’t forget Biscayne National Park, right off Miami’s coast, perfect for snorkeling and boating.

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What are some fun things to do near the Florida Keys?

The Florida Keys are a playground for water lovers. You can snorkel or dive in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, fish in the Backcountry Waters, or explore the quirky town of Key West with its lively Duval Street and historic sites like Ernest Hemingway’s Home. Sunset celebrations at Mallory Square are legendary!

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Can you take a day trip to the Bahamas from Florida?

✅ Yes! The closest Bahamian islands, like Bimini, are just about 50 miles from Florida’s coast. High-speed ferries and quick flights make day trips feasible, especially from Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Just remember to check passport and customs requirements before you go.

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What are some hidden gems near Florida that are worth visiting?

Florida is full of lesser-known treasures. Explore Cedar Key for a quaint coastal town vibe, Mount Dora for charming festivals and antique shops, or The Forgotten Coast along the Gulf for untouched beaches and wildlife. For nature lovers, Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring offers a unique snorkeling experience in crystal-clear waters.

Read more about “Is Florida a Good State to Vacation? 10 Reasons to Love It! 🌴 …”

Ready to explore? Your next unforgettable Florida getaway or island adventure is just a click away! 🌞🌴

Jacob
Jacob

Join Jacob and his family on an exhilarating journey through the sun-kissed landscapes of Florida, where they've been exploring the hidden gems of the Sunshine State for over a decade. Their passion for adventure drives them to uncover the most captivating spots, often guided by tales and tips from locals who've called Florida home for generations. At 'Florida Getaways', we're not just sharing destinations; we're weaving stories that transform your Florida vacation into an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime with our insider's guide to Florida's best-kept secrets!

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