http://www.visitflorida.com Use www.VISITFLORIDA.com to plan your best vacation ever in beautiful Florida! Explore our colorful destinations and pursue your own interests to create your dream vacation in the Sunshine State. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/richard-petty-driving-experience http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/richard-petty-driving-experience When you rev the 600-horsepower engine of a NASCAR machine, you feel it in your bones. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/thrill-quest http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/thrill-quest Adventurers, thrill seekers, adrenaline junkies - those are just a few of the names for people like me, people with a penchant for thrill rides. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/meet-you-at-the-pier http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/meet-you-at-the-pier The Cocoa Beach Pier is an area landmark and offers numerous restaurants, shops, fishing opportunities, beach rentals, live music and more. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-beach-for-each http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-beach-for-each Crystal clear waters, sugar-white sand and sun-kissed skies… getaways to The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel are as pleasure-filled as any cruise or Caribbean isle. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/ponce-francis-and-henry http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/ponce-francis-and-henry Devote a day to each of St. Augustine's strongest heritage influences, escorted by three of its great lates, Ponce de Leon, Sir Francis Drake and Henry Flagler. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-town-charm-big-city-sophistication http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-town-charm-big-city-sophistication Central Florida's cultural venues are fresh, dynamic alternatives to what you find on the usual cultural circuit. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/celebrate-the-pensacola-bay-area http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/celebrate-the-pensacola-bay-area Pensacola knows how to have a good time, especially during unique annual events that cater to the whole family. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/good-natured-families http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/good-natured-families Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands offers several activities where families can rekindle their relationships... while having fun learning about the natural wonders of Florida. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/gone-fishin http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/gone-fishin The fishing is great in Central Florida's Lakes Country, even for the first-timer. With 554 bodies of fresh water, pro and amateur anglers alike will find no shortage of spots to cast a line. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/you-cant-hide-from-the-best-guide http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/you-cant-hide-from-the-best-guide Bass fishing reigns supreme in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, but this realm has many masters. Tag along with some of the area's best anglers on a guided fishing adventure you'll never forget. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-art-of-doing-nothing http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-art-of-doing-nothing Though you can find plenty to do on Captiva Island that will keep you busy day night, you can alternately, simply, relax. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-new-frontier-the-florida-everglades http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-new-frontier-the-florida-everglades Explore the Western Everglades, where Ten Thousand Islands coax you beyond the coast. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/lovers-key http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/lovers-key Lovers Key State Park and Lovers Key Resort and Beach Club offer an enclave of solitude, relaxation, activities and romance. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/not-so-desperate-housewives http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/not-so-desperate-housewives These “Four Desperate Housewives from New York" aren’t searching for pool boys and illicit afternoons, but rather great bargains and unique find while shopping in Naples. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/castaway-for-a-day http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/castaway-for-a-day As an alternative to a Tahiti vacation my husband, James, and I sought to find our fantasy island closer to home – the keys and islands of the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area. We began with one of the most celebrated islands in the area, Caladesi Island, which regularly ranks among the nation's best beaches. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/absolutely-famous http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/absolutely-famous In the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area, you don't have to be a star to experience the luxurious lifestyle of the rich and famous. Get the VIP treatment by staying where the celebrities stay – the Don CeSar Beach Resort on St. Pete Beach and the Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club in St. Petersburg. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/adventure-for-all-ages-in-st.-petersburg-clearwater http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/adventure-for-all-ages-in-st.-petersburg-clearwater Family adventures abound in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area with exciting attractions and activities that are geared towards all ages, from preschoolers and elementary kids to 'tweens and teens. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/dry-feet-warm-memories http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/dry-feet-warm-memories Some think the Keys are all about underwater exploits, but if you stay topside, you'll find plenty of intriguing activities. Watch leaping dolphins, act like pirates and see marine life – all without getting your feet wet. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/downtown-tampa-past-and-future-rolled-into-one http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/downtown-tampa-past-and-future-rolled-into-one Tampa's development was sparked by the cigar industry, and the city continues to thrive. Experience its history and cultural diversity at museums and historic sites throughout Ybor City and downtown. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/my-big-fat-greek-vacation http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/my-big-fat-greek-vacation Though most people's introduction to Greek came courtesy of the popular movie, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, the small town of Tarpon Springs on Florida's west coast offers a real education in Greek life and culture. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/art-for-arts-sake http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/art-for-arts-sake Get ready to gallery hop in Lakeland, Winter Haven and Lake Wales – small towns that boast big appetites for art. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/trekking-in-tally-town http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/trekking-in-tally-town A good walk can do what the best drive can't. Stretch your body, mind and soul in and around Tallahassee. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fishing-days-and-campfire-nights http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fishing-days-and-campfire-nights Florida's fish camps are as much a tradition as roadside fruit stands, and there's no better place to bunk for freshwater fishing than in Central Florida. There's a wide range of affordable waterside accommodations to boot. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/cruisin-key-west http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/cruisin-key-west Cast a line for marlin, tarpon and other feisty fish; set sail on a historic schooner; or motor around on an eco-tour in the waters of Key West. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/getting-wet-and-wild-jacksonville-style http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/getting-wet-and-wild-jacksonville-style A family of six finds waterside adventures for all ages in Jacksonville & the Beaches. If they can keep the whole family happy, so can you. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sandy-feet-welcome http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sandy-feet-welcome Always wanted your own beach house? TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort in Northwest Florida is the perfect solution, with all the amenities and none of the hassles. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/rockin-around-the-clock-in-panama-city-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/rockin-around-the-clock-in-panama-city-beach Wind your watches and get ready, get set, and go for an around-the-clock review of the best the family-friendly beach town of Panama City Beach has to offer. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fort-myers-beach-on-the-flip-side http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fort-myers-beach-on-the-flip-side The ivory-tower sanctuary of DiamondHead Beach Resort rises like a bookmark between the frivolity and sophisticated beach indulgence that is Fort Myers Beach. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-new-daytona-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-new-daytona-beach Daytona Beach ups the ante with families with exciting top-of-the-line attractions, new beachfront parks and upgraded resorts that offer kid-friendly amenities. If you haven't been here in awhile, you're in for a big surprise. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/martin-county-beaches-a-to-z http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/martin-county-beaches-a-to-z Martin County, on the east coast, has some of Florida's most beautiful and natural barrier island beaches. Some are relaxing and quiet, others are family friendly and full of kids. Find the beach that's right for you. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/by-land-by-sea-with-family http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/by-land-by-sea-with-family A family learning vacation exploring land attractions and time spent enamored with the sea in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/uber-cool-overnights http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/uber-cool-overnights Overnight digs in Kissimmee that offer cool kids' suites, special "kids' packs" of activities and even a playhouse right in the lobby. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fort-de-soto-fortified-with-fun http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fort-de-soto-fortified-with-fun Ever wonder where the local families go for a fabulous beach? In St. Petersburg, they go to Fort De Soto Park, recently ranked "America's #1 Beach." http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sunny-treasures-of-sand-and-sea http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sunny-treasures-of-sand-and-sea Much as Marco Polo had sought adventure and riches in Xanadu, our writer seeks beauty and relaxation in Fort Lauderdale. Join him on his exploration of the "Venice of America" and uncover treasures both on and off the beach. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/chick-trip http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/chick-trip GullWing Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach has just the right amount of luxury, pampering and cleverly designed packages to bring girlfriends together for moments unforgettable. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-keys-to-romance http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/the-keys-to-romance Stretching like a keyboard out into the blue sea, the Florida Keys offer some magical pairings, harmonious chords that can be played in a romantic medley. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/romancing-the-shore http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/romancing-the-shore Create your own adventure romance story in Bradenton and Anna Maria Island, complete with kayaking, hiking and eating together at fun, out-of-the-way spots. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/retro-romance http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/retro-romance Ageless elegance sets the mood in Central Florida, where you can browse antique districts, share an ice cream sundae and catch a movie with your sweetheart. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sandcastle-wishes-and-ice-cream-dreams http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sandcastle-wishes-and-ice-cream-dreams Ever dreamt of having your own beach house? Well your dream can come true on Anna Maria Island with a fun-for-all-ages family beach vacation. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/family-reunions-101 http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/family-reunions-101 Looking for painless, low-stress and economical ways to plan a family reunion? Look no further than the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/pensacolas-family-attractions http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/pensacolas-family-attractions The Pensacola Bay Area is about blue skies and emerald-colored water. And while some may be content to simply relax on the shimmering quartz sand, you're really missing out if you don't explore the area's high-flying fun, animal action, colorful history and other kid favorites. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/insiders-tour http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/insiders-tour Check out Martin County's signature courses, where stunning greens rest among lush wetlands and nature preserves, only minutes from the beach. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/golf-central http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/golf-central I teed it up in the 12th Annual Major League Scramble for two reasons: To get a chance to hang out with the Boys of Summer, and to finally swing my clubs on a course I'd been hoping to play for years – The Club at Eaglebrooke in the Central Florida city of Lakeland. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/anglers-welcome http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/anglers-welcome For sport fishing enthusiasts, the Tallahassee area's lakes, rivers and wilderness preserves (and longer, cooler fishing season) are a major Florida attraction. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/carefree-cruising http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/carefree-cruising Want to go boating, but don't want to play captain? St. Petersburg and Clearwater offer a variety of inspired ways to chart the coast, from free-wheeling pirate ships to sunset cruises and deep sea fishing. Here there is endless water stretching out before you, all changing colors and gentle tides, waiting to be explored. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/island-hopping-in-the-charlotte-harbor-area http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/island-hopping-in-the-charlotte-harbor-area A true island experience awaits in Charlotte Harbor & The Gulf Islands, where a sea kayak, fishing boat or ferry is your ticket to a pristine, sun-soaked paradise. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/rod-n-reel http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/rod-n-reel Take a fishing charter to experience Martin County, the Sailfish Capital of the World, where you'll find catches so plentiful, you won't have to make up a single fish tale. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/walk-lakeland http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/walk-lakeland Lakeland is a place where you can spend more than a day exploring parks and gardens, admiring historic downtown buildings restored to their former luster, and discovering a community where art and culture abound. Experience all this and more on a walking tour of downtown Lakeland. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/saluting-diversity-on-floridas-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/saluting-diversity-on-floridas-beach Sitting on Clearwater Beach, parasailing off of St. Petersburg or applauding a Blue Jays homer in Dunedin, you probably never give a second thought to the different ethnicities that helped found this area – and shape its history – more than a century ago. Here's your chance. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/getaway.php/gid=217 http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/getaway.php/gid=217 Hot rock massages at hip new spas. A feverish arts scene with fresh festivals. A blazing bikers' blow-out; a refreshingly splashy waterpark. Hot to cool: as fall goes, so goes Daytona Beach. Come along for the ride and watch autumn wash up on this beach town. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/getaway.php/gid=218 http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/getaway.php/gid=218 Hot rock massages at hip new spas. A feverish arts scene with fresh festivals. A blazing bikers' blow-out; a refreshingly splashy waterpark. Hot to cool: as fall goes, so goes Daytona Beach. Come along for the ride and watch autumn wash up on this beach town. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/four-if-by-sea http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/four-if-by-sea No matter where you are in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area, you're never more than a few miles from the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf, the Intracoastal or Tampa Bay. I charted a course on four vessels - a ferry, deck boat, kayak and paddle wheeler - for a dolphin's-eye view. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fort-lauderdale-its-quite-the-catch http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fort-lauderdale-its-quite-the-catch Sure, deluxe mega-yachts and worth-more-millions-than-you-can-count mansions line the canals that crisscross Fort Lauderdale, but take a closer look and you'll see that more than money pours into these waterways. There's fish, too. Find them on your own or on a fishing charter. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/beach-break http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/beach-break Feeling starved for some me time, I called my mother and asked if she'd like to accompany me to the Beaches of South Walton and Destin area for a little grown-up fun in the cooler, autumn sun. She agreed. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/making-a-sunny-impression-on-sanibel http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/making-a-sunny-impression-on-sanibel How do you amaze someone who already lives in Dreamland? I had a feeling I could find the answer on Sanibel Island. This pristine southwest Florida island seemed like the perfect place for our little reunion. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sugar-and-spice-in-st.-petersburg http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/sugar-and-spice-in-st.-petersburg Sometimes you need to add some spice to your relationship in order to keep it sweet. My boyfriend, Steve, and I turned to our own backyard, St. Petersburg, and uncovered sweet relaxation and spicy adventure. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/ocala-is-for-lovers http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/ocala-is-for-lovers Oak-shaded lanes lead to sprawling horse farms trimmed in white picket fences. Downtown, local farmers share park bench space with businessmen, and couples steal kisses in the gazebo. It's the perfect setting for romance. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/kissimmee-the-coolest-place-to-be-during-the-holidays http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/kissimmee-the-coolest-place-to-be-during-the-holidays I've seen Orlando plenty of times, but not like this. There was snow – and ice. Two million pounds of it sculpted into a spectacular holiday display. This extravaganza of frozen water is aptly named: ICE! at Gaylord Palms. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/he-vs.-she-on-floridas-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/he-vs.-she-on-floridas-beach My wife and I each have our own favorite spots for pampering, so I knew our vacation to the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area could turn into a luxurious battle of the sexes. Luckily, on Florida's Beach this is an "argument" with no wrong answers. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/naples-the-finer-side-of-island-life http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/naples-the-finer-side-of-island-life Hours after sinking my toes into the sugar-sand beaches of Naples, I'm sitting in a posh restaurant on Fifth Avenue South, sipping a glass of wine and indulging in the fine life. Here, it's big city life meets the beach. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/getaway.php/gid=250 http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/getaway.php/gid=250 Jupiter Beach offers you a taste of two worlds: the wild and the oh-so-sophisticated. Spend the days immersed in nature, luxuriate in style at your pampering spa resort and then check out nearby West Palm Beach. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/floridas_sweet_holiday_traditions.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/floridas_sweet_holiday_traditions.php While the Sunshine State may not fit the typical description of a Winter Wonderland, try to embrace your inner sunshine this season. The key is giving holiday traditions a unique twist of your own. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/blast-off-or-come-down-to-earth-at-cocoa-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/blast-off-or-come-down-to-earth-at-cocoa-beach The Cocoa Beach area, also known as "The Space Coast" because of its ties to Kennedy Space Center, retains the same classic charm from your younger days, plus more modern-age draws and other surprises. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/swept-away-in-captiva http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/swept-away-in-captiva It used to be called Isle de los Captivas. Today we know it as Captiva Island, and the name still fits. Though it no longer harbors the prisoners of pirates, the island captivates with white-sand shores and turquoise waters. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/miami_neighborhood_primer.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/miami_neighborhood_primer.php Miami, famous for its party atmosphere and see-and-be-seen celebrity status, harbors a surprisingly strong sense of community. Exploring the area's vibrant neighborhoods may just give you an entirely different view of one of Florida's favorite cities. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/honor_vets_and_the_great_outdoors_in_olustee.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/honor_vets_and_the_great_outdoors_in_olustee.php The largest Civil War battle re-enactment in the southeastern U.S. converges on Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park in February. See living history demonstrations, tour the camps and shop for old-fashioned treats and Civil War-era artifacts. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-shore-(or-off-shore)-thing-in-palm-coast http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-shore-(or-off-shore)-thing-in-palm-coast Wedding? Honeymoon? Second honeymoon? You don't need a reason to whisk away on a yacht vacation. You don't even need a captain's license. All you really need is a picturesque stretch of open water and a boat. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/go-for-sport-in-the-port-(st.-lucie-that-is) http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/go-for-sport-in-the-port-(st.-lucie-that-is) Port St. Lucie on Florida's Central East coast is home to PGA Village, a golf destination of Disney-sized proportions. Here, you can go to golf school or play on three 18-hole courses designed by golf architect greats Tom Fazio and Pete Dye. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-water-lovers-paradise http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-water-lovers-paradise Kayaking was just one of the adventures we experienced – and loved – during our stay at The Resort and Club at Little Harbor, a posh retreat on Tampa Bay. It's a true water-lover's (and nature-lover's) paradise. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/tampa_bay_hideaway.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/tampa_bay_hideaway.php Just when I thought I knew all of the best waterfront retreats in Florida, one takes me by surprise – and it happens to be in an area best known for sweet tomatoes and clay soil. This secluded piece of paradise in Ruskin is called The Resort and Club at Little Harbor. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/cabana-for-two http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/cabana-for-two My boyfriend and I exchanged a playful glance as we pulled up to the hotel valet – it was the beginning of a long-overdue and beautifully romantic escape. We disappeared into The Shores Resort and Spa, a Daytona Beach resort that awakens desires with cabana dining and other couple's experiences. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fishing-key-west http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fishing-key-west The Conchs credit "Papa" Hemingway with establishing this island in the stream as a world-class fishing destination. Learn about charter boat options and the best time of the year to hook into your favorite game fish. After a long day fishing, be sure to visit the celebrated Key West author's favorite watering hole. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/martin_county_an_east_coast_treasure.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/martin_county_an_east_coast_treasure.php A favorite pastime of mine is uncovering places that still emanate that laidback, Old Florida vibe. Martin County is one of those rare places, full of small-town charm and simple pleasures, plus world-class beaches. And chances are, you don't have to go far to get there. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/gainesville_isnt_just_for_gators.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/gainesville_isnt_just_for_gators.php Sure, the town is known for its title-winning college sports teams, but you don't have to know anything about football or basketball to appreciate Gainesville's charm. This North Central Florida city has a unique and refreshing culture all its own. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/country-club-casual-on-ponte-vedra-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/country-club-casual-on-ponte-vedra-beach Home to a close-knit community of posh golf and beach resorts, this Florida destination allows you to vacation like the country-club set, whether or not you can afford to live like them. Notables include the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club and Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-town-allure http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/small-town-allure In Central Florida, romance is definitely "in the air" for lovebirds looking for magical memories away from the big-city lights. Zoom through the sky in a bi-plane, dine by candlelight at a historic inn, explore historic downtowns or cozy up at a charming bed and breakfast. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/live-out-your-island-fantasies-on-little-palm http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/live-out-your-island-fantasies-on-little-palm Who hasn't dreamed of escaping to a secluded, tropical island retreat? When you're ready to fulfill your island fantasies, there's no need to hunt down your passport and book a flight abroad. You can stage the ultimate seaside escape right here in Florida. (Move over, Caribbean.) http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/paddling-through-paradise http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/paddling-through-paradise Taking to the water is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Martin County, located on Florida's east coast, just north of Palm Beach and halfway between Miami and Orlando. Navigate the serene waters of the Loxahatchee and South Fork rivers, or cruise along one of the county's 16 beaches. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/wild-about-marathon http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/wild-about-marathon For kids, unbridled exuberance is a typical reaction in Marathon, a favorite Middle Keys family vacation spot. Play with dolphins, visit a hospital just for turtles, seek out cool wildlife on a nature trail, coast over old railroad bridges and feed the fish while you eat dinner. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/paradise-for-two http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/paradise-for-two At the Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa, a Caribbean-style hideaway just 20 miles north of Palm Beach, you can cozy up in cabanas on a pristine beach, indulge in an exotic treatment at the new full-service spa, share tuna tartar and Florida lobster over a bottle of wine and enjoy breakfast in bed as the sun rises. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/indulging_your_senses_at_the_shores.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/indulging_your_senses_at_the_shores.php The Shores Resort & Spa in Daytona Beach engages all the senses, and you'll want to do nothing but relax and soak it up. Artfully presented gourmet fare makes the taste buds dance. Fine wines exude rich aromas as you imbibe. Waves wash ashore, providing the perfect soundtrack for your cabana-bound day. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/caladesi-island-pristine-perfection http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/caladesi-island-pristine-perfection The St. Petersburg/Clearwater area's Caladesi Island State Park, one of Florida's few remaining undeveloped barrier islands, is the ideal place for angling, kayaking, birding or hiking. Or just relaxing. Its soft white sand invites you to sink in, to rest a while – and you won't want to pass it up. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/timeless-fun-in-panama-city-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/timeless-fun-in-panama-city-beach In northwest Florida's Panama City Beach, there are plenty of ways to be entertained and to find your own fun, both on and off the beach. And you can enjoy it all at your own pace, whether that's laidback or action-packed. Which makes coming here a true escape. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/in_motion_on_the_space_coast.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/in_motion_on_the_space_coast.php For kids, it's all about keeping up the momentum - going, going and still going. Florida's Space Coast is a great in-state getaway that more than delivers with activities for the active and motion-minded, including kid-loved space attractions, awesome watersports and family play places. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/adventures_in_nature.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/adventures_in_nature.php Explore our very own Space Coast, a unique destination less than an hour from Orlando that combines 72 miles of sun-bronzed beaches, unspoiled nature and space-age fun. From beautifully sedate to thrillingly fast-paced, the Space Coast offers outdoor adventures of every kind. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/highoctane_fun_in_daytona_beach.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/highoctane_fun_in_daytona_beach.php The sun's rays will bounce off the polished chrome and flecked paint of countless custom choppers as Biketoberfest® rolls into town October 18-21. And wherever you point your scoot, you'll find concerts, demo rides, diverse attractions and the Daytona Beach area's famous nightlife and hospitality... http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/signs_of_the_mermaid.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/signs_of_the_mermaid.php A little magic isn't difficult to come by in Florida's Gulf Islands of Anna Maria, Longboat Key, Bradenton and the Lakewood Ranch area. After all, its environs include the color-shifting Gulf and an island popping with brightly-hued beach cottages, parrots in the trees and restaurants inspired by mermaids... http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/park_yourself_in_marianna.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/park_yourself_in_marianna.php If Florida had its own "Seven Wonders" of the state, you'd expect to see the obvious: Everglades National Park, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Lake Okeechobee, the Florida Reef, Canaveral National Seashore. Here, we offer up two more contenders: Florida Caverns State Park and Falling Waters State Park in Northwest Florida... http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/splurging_and_saving_in_chic_fort_lauderdale.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/splurging_and_saving_in_chic_fort_lauderdale.php Fort Lauderdale is a sophisticated playground filled with world-class shopping, dining and entertainment. But Floridians don't need to empty their wallets to enjoy themselves here. The city offers an interesting mix of upscale and easy-on-the-pocket choices, and in the center of it all is the new Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/adventures-in-the-swamp http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/adventures-in-the-swamp At Billie Swamp Safari on South Florida's Seminole Reservation, life hasn't changed much in 150 years. Close your eyes for a minute and it's easy to imagine you're back in a time when "cracker" cowboys herded cattle through the scrub and painted warriors ruled the swamps. Take a swamp buggy tour or airboat ride... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/waterscape-brings-family-fun-to-fort-walton-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/waterscape-brings-family-fun-to-fort-walton-beach A new vacation rental property called Waterscape will add water park fun and island-style elegance to the Northwest Florida coastline when it opens this spring. It features a 10-foot-tall waterfall, free-form pool, play area for kids and even a LAY-Z-RIVER, all on the stunning Emerald Coast beachfront... http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/girls_night_grows_up.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/girls_night_grows_up.php I rounded up six of my friends to try out the new Girlfriends "Truth or Dare" Getaway package at the Gaylord Palms Resort, just outside of Orlando. We had all the girly fun you'd expect at a slumber party, plus five-star treatment fit for a queen. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/central_florida_in_full_bloom.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/central_florida_in_full_bloom.php It's spring, and that means Central Florida's Polk County is bursting with fun things to see and do. So gather up the family for a road trip to the area's finest family-friendly festivals and attractions, and don't forget the sunscreen! http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/gateway-to-the-gulf http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/gateway-to-the-gulf If you're looking for a gateway to the Gulf's manifold charms, Bradenton area beaches will afford you passage onto parasails and kayaks, as well as into volleyball games. And whether you linger beachside or prefer to get wet, the area is the home base for Gulf-inspired activities of all kinds. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/water-links http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/water-links The waters of Martin County bridge past and present, creating a perfect playground for lovers of history, culture, nature and, of course, anything on the water. Go deep sea fishing, cast from a tree-lined river, explore old shipwrecks while diving and enjoy exciting watersports on Florida's Treasure Coast. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/casting-from-kayaks-on-captiva http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/casting-from-kayaks-on-captiva We were floating in Pine Island Sound, and only a narrow stretch of Captiva Island separated us from the Gulf of Mexico. Dolphins danced around my son and I while my fishing-partner-turned-fiance reeled in a 20-pound snook from his kayak over in the shallows, not far from our room at the 'Tween Waters Inn. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fun-filled-jacksonville http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/fun-filled-jacksonville As Florida's largest city, it's no wonder that Jacksonville is filled with fun activities for all ages. Here you'll discover big-city attractions and beautiful beaches just miles apart. On land or in water, it's a cinch to fill your days with activities that fascinate the whole family. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/frills-for-families http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/frills-for-families The new Trump International Sonesta Beach Resort in Sunny Isles Beach means business when it says it caters to families. On property and around the area, there's plenty to keep both kids and adults entertained and relaxed. And everyone gets a little pampering, too. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/daytona-beaches-hit-the-gold-standard http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/daytona-beaches-hit-the-gold-standard Many NASCAR drivers have taken home gold after speeding around that famous track, but there's another gold standard in Daytona: the beaches. Twenty-three miles of them to be exact. Take a surfing lesson, go swimming, stroll the shore, cruise the beach in your car or just chill. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/culinary-heaven-meets-the-coast http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/culinary-heaven-meets-the-coast An award-winning culinary team sets up shop in a first-class resort resting on a famous stretch of Atlantic coastline – a surprisingly short distance from Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale. It's the Trump International Sonesta Beach Resort, and it's at the center of it all. http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/grand_island_getaway.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/grand_island_getaway.php Our writer sets off for a close-to-home family getaway – a good old-fashioned rollicking trip to the beach. She finds it, along with some romance, at the TradeWinds Island Resorts on St. Pete Beach. Here, paradise is gorgeous Gulf beaches and a great kids' program. http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/butterflies-beaches-and-fall-breezes http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/butterflies-beaches-and-fall-breezes Fall in Beaches of South Walton is just cool enough when it comes to weather. When it comes to families, things don't get any cooler. In the fall, Beaches of South Walton on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast comes to life with a flurry of activities that go beyond the beach... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/experience-nature-step-by-step http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/experience-nature-step-by-step With more than 125 miles of trails, Central Florida's Polk County offers a rich diversity of natural experiences on foot. The new Trek Ten Trails program is a great way to go exploring. So pack your hiking shoes and your favorite walking stick, then head to scenic Central Florida to Trek Ten Trails... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/live-the-outdoor-life http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/live-the-outdoor-life In the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area, outdoor activities are as diverse as the wildlife. Biking, swimming, boating, fishing, kiteboarding, birding – name the activity and chances are you can find it here. With so much to do and no shortage of stunning scenery, living the outdoor life comes naturally... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/inspiration-at-innisbrook http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/inspiration-at-innisbrook The Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club, a popular St. Petersburg/Clearwater area golf resort, has big changes in store. Recently purchased by Sheila Johnson, co-founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET) and president and CEO of Salamander Hospitality, the club is poised to reach yet a higher tier of great golf... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/golf-rules-on-floridas-first-coast http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/golf-rules-on-floridas-first-coast Northeast Florida, known as Florida's First Coast, is a veritable golf playground spanning about 75 miles and featuring some incredible ocean views. An organization called Florida's First Coast of Golf exists specifically to help you explore it. From World Golf Village to TPC Sawgrass, this area is rich with golfing options... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/beach-perfect http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/beach-perfect What makes the perfect beach, besides silky sand, turquoise water and near-constant sun? A perfect beach is where everything comes to you – where you don't have to work at keeping you, your partner and your kids entertained. The Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Northwest Florida fits the bill... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/quiet-harbor http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/quiet-harbor On a sunny afternoon at The Cove On Ormond Beach, a central east Florida resort on the Atlantic Ocean, children on tubes zoomed down a two-story water slide. A father in Bermuda shorts flipped burgers on a grill. Dozens of resort guests, including myself, lounged around the oceanfront pool... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/paradise-on-st.-pete-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/paradise-on-st.-pete-beach Two white swans cross our path as my son and I paddle the narrow waterway winding through the Island Grand Beach Resort on St. Pete Beach. Up ahead I see sunlight dancing on a sparkling blue pool while my son spots a giant three-story inflated slide resting on the white sandy beach... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-gentler-tastier-tallahassee http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/a-gentler-tastier-tallahassee There's more than politics in our capital city: Tallahassee is home to a few of Florida's finest restaurants and some of the prettiest scenery this side of the Mason Dixon line. Which makes it the perfect place to eat well and walk off the calories this winter... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/golf-gains-ground-in-daytona-beach http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/golf-gains-ground-in-daytona-beach The sound of engines roaring around the Daytona International Speedway has long been the sports calling card for the Daytona Beach area. But more common here, though less dramatic, is the sound of golf carts motoring along the fairways. The area's golf courses are an increasingly big draw for visitors... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/more-ways-to-fore-in-central-florida http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/more-ways-to-fore-in-central-florida Florida's greens are greener, no question about it. Though South Florida has more than its fair share of courses, golfers will find plenty of great places to play – sometimes for lower fees – in Central Florida, where rolling hills, narrow fairways and sandy bunkers challenge even the most experienced golfers... http://visitflorida.com/articles/pensacolas-natural-lure http://visitflorida.com/articles/pensacolas-natural-lure From the "Canoe Capital of Florida" to the world's largest artificial reef, the Pensacola Bay Area's outdoor offerings attract and amaze everyone from fun-loving kids to serious nature enthusiasts. Pack your paddles, tackle and binoculars and head to this part of the northern Gulf coast... http://visitflorida.com/articles/wild-wanderings-in-sarasota http://visitflorida.com/articles/wild-wanderings-in-sarasota The idea of Sarasota as a wild vacation destination isn't as far-fetched as it sounds. If your idea of "wild" involves seeing giant alligators up close, walking among the treetops, kayaking scenic rivers and bays, and coming nose-to-snout with a 1,200-pound manatee, then the Sarasota area is as wild as it gets... http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/secrets_from_the_space_coast.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/secrets_from_the_space_coast.php When it comes to Florida's Space Coast, Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is hardly the final frontier. In the years my family has visited the Space Coast to hit KSC and the waves, we've discovered some lesser-known but equally compelling attractions that have made the 72-mile stretch of coastline one of our favorite destinations... http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/where_the_fish_are_in_st_petersburgclearwater.php http://floridians.visitflorida.com/getaways/g/where_the_fish_are_in_st_petersburgclearwater.php When you live on a peninsula, the fishing is always good somewhere, sometime. The St. Petersburg/Clearwater area has many of those faithful fishing spots. With Tampa Bay to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west, anglers here are usually assured of a sheltered place to cast a line. Here's a rundown of what you can expect... http://visitflorida.com/articles/five-ways-to-live-it-up-in-fort-myers http://visitflorida.com/articles/five-ways-to-live-it-up-in-fort-myers The Fort Myers and Sanibel area on Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast is ideal for a laidback yet luxurious getaway. You'll find numerous ways to live it up in this part of the Sunshine State. Here are five sure-fire bets, all centered around the top-rated Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa... http://visitflorida.com/articles/self-renewal-in-safety-harbor http://visitflorida.com/articles/self-renewal-in-safety-harbor Known for its natural mineral springs, Safety Harbor Resort and Spa – only miles from some of the world's best beaches – has recently completed a $10 million renovation. The gem of this St. Petersburg/Clearwater area resort remains its sumptuous spa... http://visitflorida.com/articles/exploring-hollywood-beach http://visitflorida.com/articles/exploring-hollywood-beach It might be nestled between two fast-paced party towns in South Florida, but Hollywood Beach is a laidback destination that's loaded with family appeal. Go biking along the famous oceanfront Broadwalk, make a splash downtown and check out area parks for a Florida-style family adventure... http://visitflorida.com/articles/panama-city-beach-retreat http://visitflorida.com/articles/panama-city-beach-retreat Panama City Beach is no longer a sleepy beach town, but it's not all about the pop and glitter featured on those teen TV programs, either. What you can count on: breathtaking beaches, near-perfect weather and plenty of fun, G-rated entertainment – plus a wide selection of hotels and resorts... http://visitflorida.com/articles/historical-hotspots-in-floridas-capital http://visitflorida.com/articles/historical-hotspots-in-floridas-capital "Historical site" and "hotspot" aren't often used in the same sentence, but Tallahassee breaks with tradition to offer cultural attractions that are not only educational, but downright entertaining. Check out the downtown cultural district, visit historic Mission San Luis and head outdoors to explore the city's beautiful historic gardens... http://visitflorida.com/articles/immerse-yourself-in-keys-culture http://visitflorida.com/articles/immerse-yourself-in-keys-culture At first glance, the Florida Keys are water and sky, horizon and clouds, mangroves and marshes. But look in the right places and you'll find an island chain that's alive with history and culture. From Flagler to Hemingway, the rich heritage of the Keys has left us much to appreciate. In true Keys style, the best way to explore it all is to take your time... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/beach-bonding-in-destin http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/beach-bonding-in-destin We were prepared to go the distance to get a little closer. So three girlfriends and I packed up the SUV and headed to the northwest corner of the state for some much-needed girl time on the sublime Emerald Coast. We settled in at TOPS'L Beach & Racquet Resort... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/seven-bits-of-beach-heaven http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/seven-bits-of-beach-heaven In St. Petersburg/Clearwater, you'll find a collection of Gulf-front communities with their own distinctive feel – from buzzing beach activity on award-winning shores to blessed quiet among Old Florida cottages. Here's a look at seven of my favorites, from north to south... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/get-to-know-hollywood http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/get-to-know-hollywood Hollywood is an eclectic destination where you can kick back at the beach during the day and live it up at a trendy bistro by night. Located off Interstate 95 between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Hollywood is a convenient in-state getaway. If you haven't visited the town, take a weekend to introduce yourself. If you have, come see what's new... http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/spring-break-tradition-with-a-twist http://www.visitflorida.com/articles/spring-break-tradition-with-a-twist Daytona Beach has always been a magnet for spring break getaways, but with an ever-growing list of kid-friendly activities and budget-friendly deals, this famous beach town is attracting more families than ever. The prospect of spring break in Daytona Beach is especially sweet for Floridians, who can just pack up the car and go... http://visitflorida.com/articles/key-west-calls http://visitflorida.com/articles/key-west-calls Sipping a tropical drink in Mallory Square, watching a schooner slip past the setting sun, is something everybody should experience at least once in their lives. But this island city, once home to pirates, fishermen and high-sea traders, has more to offer when it comes to the great outdoors... http://visitflorida.com/articles/natures-finest http://visitflorida.com/articles/natures-finest Known for waterfront sunsets, seashells and sandy beaches, Sanibel Island on Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast is a tranquil retreat that's a natural choice for outdoor lovers. And my stay at the luxurious, world-class Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa placed me within easy access to all it has to offer... http://visitflorida.com/articles/city-to-shore-luxury http://visitflorida.com/articles/city-to-shore-luxury Near the grand entrance to the Sandpearl Resort and Spa, a mother waited with her young son – his navy- and white-striped broadcloth tucked out of white pants; his baby-brown locks teased by the wind – a hint, in miniature, of the barefoot elegance embodied by this Clearwater Beach resort... http://visitflorida.com/articles/a-fort-lauderdale-classic http://visitflorida.com/articles/a-fort-lauderdale-classic On a recent trip, I browsed designer boutiques on Las Olas Boulevard and savored succulent scallops at a chic restaurant. And just minutes from the lively city scene, I found the ultimate place to relax: the award-winning Lago Mar Resort & Club, a boutique-style hotel on the Atlantic Ocean... http://visitflorida.com/articles/coastal-character http://visitflorida.com/articles/coastal-character My father's eyes lit up like fireworks at the thought of spending a long weekend in Pensacola Beach. It wasn't long before he had his trusted Hobie Cat sailboat tacked to the back of a borrowed truck. With enough scuba gear to satisfy a Navy SEAL and a cooler full of sandwiches stacked in the cab, we were off to the beach... http://visitflorida.com/articles/savoring-floridas-gulf-islands http://visitflorida.com/articles/savoring-floridas-gulf-islands It's easy to fall in love with the many flavors of Florida's Gulf Islands of Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key and the mainland areas of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch. Most restaurants are locally owned, offering tastes you won't find anywhere else, and the tropical setting is ideal for the many culinary events held here...