About Florida

Florida, also called the Sunshine State, is a paradise for visitors seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, world-class beaches, and captivating natural beauty.

It is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. This unique geographical position endows Florida with miles of picturesque coastline.

The state's climate is predominantly subtropical, with warm temperatures year-round.

  • 67 Counties
  • Largest Cities: Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando
  • Population: 21.78 million (2021)
  • Size: 65,760 sq. miles (#22 in the U.S.)

FAQs

What is the best month to visit Florida?

Florida summers are very hot. So many people think of Winter as the best time to visit Florida. The weather is mild in most parts of the state, although Jacksonville and North Florida in particular can get some cold snaps. So if you are visiting North Florida it’s a good idea to still bring warm weather clothing.

These months also coincide with the holiday season, making it a perfect time to enjoy the festive decorations and events at various attractions such as Disney World.

Spring, from April to June, is another great time to visit - although they can still be hot. Usually, though, the weather is warmer but still comfortable. The spring break crowds have usually gone home by late April. 
If you're planning a beach vacation, summer (July to September) offers the warmest ocean temperatures.

What are the most popular destinations in Florida?

At the top of the list is probably the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, the world's most-visited vacation resort. Walt Disney World alone gets over 52 million visitors per year. Orlando is where most of the theme-park action is.

Other resorts here include:
- Universal Studios
- Legoland
- Sea World

Beyond the amusement parks, Florida boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the U.S., with the best beaches (and clearest water) being in South Florida and the Panhandle. Both are home to top-notch snorkeling and diving, paddleboarding, fishing, and other watersports.

Popular beach towns include:
- Destin
- Pensacola
- West Palm Beach
- Miami and Miami Beach
- Key Largo
- Key West

And no trip to Florida would be complete without experiencing Natural Florida. Florida is home to the Everglades National Park, one of the world's most unique ecosystems. Here, you can see a variety of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and numerous species of birds. It’s also home to hundreds of crystal clear freshwater springs. You also don’t want to miss out on the Merritt Island National Refuge, which is conveniently located next to the Kennedy Space Center.

Lastly, be sure to check out the rich cultural attractions, especially the Cuban communities in Miami's Little Havana and Tampa’s Ybor City, the historic district of St. Augustine, and the melting pot of Key West.

No matter what your interests, you're sure to find something that captivates you in Florida.

What is the cheapest month to go to Florida?

The cheapest months to visit Florida are typically during the off-peak season, which falls in late spring (late April and May) and late fall (September and October). The kids are back in school, and summer break is over (or not started yet), so few families are able to travel during this time.

During these periods, you'll find lower prices for flights and accommodations, less crowded attractions, and shorter wait times at popular tourist spots.

What’s the best way to travel to Florida?

Flying is the quickest and often most convenient way to get to Florida, with numerous international and domestic airports spread across the state. Major carriers serve destinations like Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa.

Flying is likely the most expensive option, especially because you’ll need to rent a car once you’re there. If you're traveling from within the U.S., consider budget airlines for more affordable fares.

Lots of people, especially who live in the Southeast, drive to Florida. That saves money on airfare, and having a car at your disposal allows for easy exploration once you're in Florida. For large groups, this is the cheapest option in most cases.

Cruises to Florida are another popular option. Many cruises include stops at Florida's ports as part of their itinerary.

Some of Florida’s ports include:
- Jacksonville
- Tampa
- Miami
- The Florida Keys

Is it expensive to vacation in Florida?

The cost of your Florida vacation can vary a lot based on things like when you travel, where you stay, what you do, and how you manage your budget.
As for attractions, major theme parks like Disney World and Universal are some of the most expensive Florida vacations. The least expensive include beaches, state parks, and natural areas.

Florida offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.

You’ll also save money by cooking during your trip rather than eating out. In this sense, booking a stay at a suite with a full kitchen or a vacation rental can help you save money.

What month is hurricane season the worst in Florida?

Florida's hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. Hurricanes are most likely to hit in the fall, from mid-August through October. There are an especially high number of hurricanes that have hit in September.

Overall, though, the chances of a hurricane hitting exactly when and where you're visiting are relatively low. Plus, you can always stay updated on storms brewing in the Atlantic by checking weather forecasts and the National Hurricane Center.

Top Florida Experiences