In 2024, the State of Florida set a record with 142.9 million visitors. It is the most significant influx of vacationers and part-time residents in the state’s history. As you can see, Florida is the most attractive road trip destination in the United States, dotted with Instagram-worthy coastal scenery, theme parks and resorts, some of the world’s best golf courses, and more. Suppose you’re headed south for a vacation to relocate or escape inclement weather up North or in the Midwest. In that case, finding reliable car transport to Florida pays dividends. Rather than gobbling up fuel and maintenance costs by driving a car to Florida yourself, you can have your car shipped to Florida for a comparable rate. We’ve compiled this guide to help you plan an unforgettable Florida road trip, covering everything from scheduling to hidden gems to finding the right car shipping company.
Planning Your Florida Road Trip Adventure
Before you hit the road to Florida, careful planning is essential to make the most of your trip. Consider the following factors:
Choosing the Perfect Time to Head to Florida
Florida is a picture-perfect vacation destination at any time of year. However, the best time of year to make a road trip depends on what you want. Winter months (December to March) offer mild weather and fewer rain showers, while summer brings everyone out on the beach with higher temperatures and an array of car auctions, festivals, and other big events. Beware of hurricane season (June to November), which can throw a monkey wrench into travel plans and delay car transport to Florida.
What Do You Want to Do on Your Florida Road Trip?
Orlando is the perfect spot for theme park enthusiasts, home to iconic theme parks like Universal Studios and the Disney World Resort. Florida is also home to the largest continuous coastline in the United States, and its countless beach resorts and adventures are legendary worldwide. You can get in touch with nature in the Everglades or golf your way around the coast. There’s so much to do, so planning an itinerary is critical.
Prepping Your Vehicle for Your Florida Road Trip
If you plan to drive to Florida, ensure your car is road trip-ready. Check the oil, tires, brakes, and battery, and pack a first-aid and emergency road kit. Flares and a spare tire are a must. If you’d rather road trip around Florida than to the state, you can also opt for car transport to Florida, cutting out long hours on the highway and saving valuable energy for your trip.
Top Routes and Attractions in the Sunshine State
Once in Florida, you’ll be spoiled by scenic drives and must-visit attractions. Here are some of the top routes:
The A1A Coastal Highway
Running along Florida’s Atlantic coast, this scenic route takes you through historic towns like St. Augustine, vibrant beaches in Daytona, and stunning ocean views in Palm Beach and Miami.
The Overseas Highway to Key West
One of the most iconic drives in the U.S., this 113-mile journey connects the Florida Keys with breathtaking bridges and turquoise waters. For a picturesque break, stop at Bahia Honda State Park.
I-75 and Florida's Gulf Coast
For a West Coast adventure, drive along I-75 to experience Naples’s white-sand beaches, Sarasota’s cultural attractions, and Tampa’s lively cityscape.
Orlando to the Space Coast
A trip from Orlando to Florida's Space Coast takes you to Kennedy Space Center, where you can explore NASA’s history and, if lucky, witness a rocket launch. You can also visit the world famous Disney World resort!
Essential Car Transport Tips to Florida
If driving long distances isn’t your thing, arranging car transport to Florida is a convenient and cost-effective alternative. Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth process:
Choose a Reliable Car Transport Company
Look for a reputable auto transport service with positive customer reviews, proper licensing, and dedicated customer care. Request quotes from multiple vehicle shipping providers to compare pricing and services.
Select the Right Vehicle Shipping Method
There are two main types of car transport to Florida :
Open Car Transport – The most common and affordable option is transporting your car on an open-air trailer. It is ideal for standard vehicles and 95% of Florida car shipping customers.
Enclosed Car Transport — This type of transport provides extra protection for luxury or classic cars, shielding them from weather and road debris. It is great for vehicles valued at $70,000 or more.
Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Clean your vehicle and document its condition with photos before transport.
Remove personal belongings to comply with transport regulations.
Ensure the fuel tank is only about a quarter full to reduce weight.
Schedule Pickup and Delivery in Advance
Book your car transport to Florida well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best rates and driver availability availability.
Discovering Florida’s Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known destinations, Florida is chock full of hidden treasures worth stopping by on your road trip.
Devil’s Den (Williston, FL)
A prehistoric underground spring perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, offering a surreal experience in crystal-clear waters.
Dry Tortugas National Park
This remote park, accessible only by boat or seaplane from Key West, features stunning beaches, coral reefs, and the historic Fort Jefferson.
Bok Tower Gardens (Lake Wales, FL)
A peaceful retreat featuring lush gardens, walking trails, and the stunning 205-foot Singing Tower with a carillon that plays beautiful melodies.
Blowing Rocks Preserve (Jupiter, FL)
This lesser-known coastal preserve features dramatic limestone rock formations that create geyser-like water spouts during high tide.
Cedar Key
A charming, old Florida town on the Gulf Coast, known for its seafood, artsy vibe,
and laid-back atmosphere.
Ensuring a Stress-Free Travel Experience
To make your road trip to Florida as smooth as possible, keep these final tips in mind:
Get Ready for Toll Roads
Florida has numerous toll roads, including the Turnpike and various expressways. For convenience, consider buying a SunPass or other electronic toll payment method.
Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Long drives can be tiring, so stop frequently to stretch, grab a snack, and enjoy a bite or rest in a motel along the way.
Book Accommodations in Advance
Florida’s popular destinations fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Secure your lodging ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress.
Use Travel Apps for Navigation
Apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Roadtrippers can help you find the best routes, locate gas stations, and discover interesting attractions.
Set Up Car Transport to Florida
Correlate your trip plans with your vehicle shipping schedule. Research and find a reliable car shipping company that can meet your vacation scheduling needs.
Enjoy the Trip
Whether driving the entire way or opting for car transport to Florida, embrace the adventure. Take detours, explore off-the-beaten-path locations, and make lasting memories.
Final Thoughts
A Florida road trip is perfect for vacationers of all ages, offering everything from pristine beaches to the full Disney experience. Whether you drive the whole way or use car transport to Florida, careful planning and intelligent travel choices will eliminate headaches and keep you smiling all vacation long.
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