Tour guides USA > Florida

5 ideas for guided tours in Florida

• Daytona Beach

  

  Daytona Beach is a legendary coastal town on Florida’s eastern shore. Every year, it draws millions of visitors looking for its wide sandy beaches, its laid-back atmosphere, and thrilling sports events.

  The beach itself stretches for 37 kilometers and is undoubtedly the city’s main attraction. Here, visitors lounge in the sun, swim in the warm Atlantic waters, or enjoy water sports like surfing and windsurfing. A stop at the iconic Daytona Beach Pier is a must—offering ocean views along with shops and restaurants.

  If you’d like a break from the shore, there’s more to explore. The local automobile museum dives into racing history and showcases both vintage and modern vehicles. Golfers might prefer the renowned LPGA International course. And for those who enjoy nature, Tomoka State Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and great spots for fishing across its 1,600 hectares.

• Ocala National Forest

  

  Located in northern Florida, Ocala National Forest is a dream destination for nature lovers. It offers over 600 km of trails, crystal-clear lakes, and natural springs. Begin your adventure at Juniper Springs, one of the forest’s most visited areas.

  Take a refreshing swim in the spring’s clear waters, then wander the nearby forest trails. The Juniper Springs campground also provides excellent facilities for overnight stays. For panoramic views, climb the Mount Dora Lookout Tower, a 126-foot structure that offers sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness.

  Seeking something more adventurous? Head to the Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boating. Trails here also offer great opportunities for wildlife observation.

  Another worthwhile stop is the Salt Springs Recreation Area, famous for its mineral-rich waters and surrounding freshwater springs. The 5-km Salt Springs Trail winds through the forest and offers a peaceful hike.

  Lastly, don’t miss the Longleaf Pine Forest, one of Florida’s rarest ecosystems. Its wide sandy trails and unique vegetation make it an unforgettable spot for a quiet hike.

• The Florida Keys Route

  

  Crystal waters, white-sand beaches, and sunsets that paint the sky—driving through the Florida Keys is an unforgettable journey. This scenic route spans 180 kilometers from Miami to Key West, weaving through island after island.

  Begin your adventure on the Overseas Highway, a road suspended between sea and sky. Be sure to stop at Bahia Honda State Park, where the turquoise waters and beaches offer a perfect break.

  Next, head to Marathon for a chance to swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center.

  Continue to Big Pine Key to encounter giant iguanas at the Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge. Then it’s on to Key West, the southernmost point in the continental U.S., famous for its legendary sunsets.

  You can visit Ernest Hemingway’s home or explore the vibrant Duval Street, filled with lively bars, restaurants, and boutique shops. On your way back, stop at Islamorada, known for coral reefs and ideal conditions for diving, fishing, or simply relaxing on white-sand beaches.

  Round off your journey in Key Largo, the largest of the Keys, where you’ll find the underwater wonders of the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

• Everglades National Park

  

  The Everglades National Park is a vast natural wonder in southern Florida. Spanning over a million acres of wetlands, it’s home to an extraordinary mix of wildlife and ecosystems.

  One of the park’s best-known experiences is the airboat tour through its marshes. These fast-moving boats glide across the water, giving you the chance to spot alligators, pythons, and countless birds in their natural setting. Shark Valley is another highlight, offering a 15-kilometer loop trail that you can walk or bike through open grasslands and forested wetlands.

  Along the way, keep your eyes open for gators and exotic birds. The Everglades also boast the largest mangrove ecosystem in North America. Kayaking through these winding channels reveals the richness and mystery of this environment.

  For close-up wildlife encounters, the Anhinga Trail is a great place to begin. It’s a boardwalk trail that leads you through habitats where you can see birds, turtles, and alligators up close with minimal effort.

• Orlando and its theme parks

  

  Orlando, Florida’s magical city, is famous for its incredible theme parks. You could easily spend several weeks exploring everything it has to offer.

  Top theme parks in Orlando:
  
  1- Walt Disney World – Made up of four unique parks:
  – Magic Kingdom – The original Disney park in Orlando, known for its castles and colorful parades.
  – Epcot – A blend of education and fun with a strong cultural flair.
  – Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Brings movies to life with immersive experiences.
  – Disney’s Animal Kingdom – A nature-themed park inspired by wildlife and conservation.

  2- Universal Studios – Divided into two parks:
  – Universal Studios – Rides and attractions based on major films and TV series like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.
  – Islands of Adventure – High-adrenaline coasters and comic book-themed zones.

  3- Water parks:
  – Wet’n Wild – Often rated among the world’s top water parks.
  – Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon – Family-friendly water adventures with a tropical theme.