Your Ultimate Top 10 Florida Weekend Getaways

Planning a summer escape in Florida? Whether you’re based in Tampa, Orlando, Miami or elsewhere in the Sunshine State, across the U.S., or traveling internationally, this curated guide highlights 10 top weekend getaways across this amazing state.

Each location includes practical travel tips—like drive times from Tampa or nearby airport access—plus recommended accommodations by budget tier, sample itineraries, top dining picks, and pet-friendly notes. It’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable 2–3 day Florida adventure.

1. Tampa–St. Pete 🌆

We live in Tampa and love how this city blends vibrant food culture with laid-back coastal charm. From Michelin-starred dining to hidden foodie gems, Tampa is a paradise for anyone who loves to eat. The Riverwalk is one of our favorite places—perfect for sunset strolls, boat watching, and soaking in the bay breeze. Best of all, it’s super dog-friendly, and our Labrador always has just as much fun as we do.

Drive Time: 10-30 min from TPA airport
Nearest Airport: Tampa International (TPA); also St. Pete–Clearwater (PIE)
Accommodations:
- Budget: Hampton Inn Ybor City
- Mid: Embassy Suites Riverwalk
- High: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club
Itinerary Highlights:
- 🚶 Riverwalk stroll, Cuban sandwich crawl (La Segunda)
- 🎨 Dali Museum visit & St. Pete mural tour
- 🌅 Sunset rooftop drinks at The Canopy

Book your activities here

Trending Eateries: Oxford Exchange, Ulele, Oak and Ola, Heaven
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – riverwalk, downtown, and many restaurants including the ones recommended above also allow pets on outdoor patios.

📅 Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Explore Tampa Riverwalk, stop by Armature Works for coffee ☕
Afternoon: Visit Tampa Museum of Art or Florida Aquarium 🎨🦈
Dinner: Dine at Ulele (reservations recommended) 🍽️
Evening: Catch sunset at Sparkman Wharf 🌅

Day 2:

Morning: Drive to St. Pete, explore the Dali Museum and Central Ave murals 🎭
Lunch: Try Bodega or The Mill for local flavor 🥪
Afternoon: Relax at St. Pete Beach 🏖️
Dinner: Rooftop cocktails and sunset views at The Canopy 🍹

Day 3 (Optional):

- Morning: Ybor City walking tour, grab a Cuban sandwich at La Segunda 🥖
- Afternoon: Hyde Park Village shopping 🛍️
- Departure

2. Florida Highway 30A (Seaside/Rosemary/Alys Beach) 💠

A favorite weekend escape from Tampa, the “30A” is a charming stretch of coastline between Panama City and Destin in the Florida pan handle. 30A is home to quaint beach towns like Seaside, Rosemary, and Alys Beach—offers sugar-white sands, crystal-clear waters, and a stylish, laid-back vibe.

It’s incredibly dog-friendly, with patios, paths, and even beaches welcoming well-behaved pups. The food scene is elevated yet casual, featuring fresh Gulf seafood, coastal Southern flavors, and boutique eateries. 30A is popular with both locals and snowbirds, so we recommend booking accommodations and restaurant reservations early—especially during spring break, summer, and fall weekends when the weather is perfect and the sunsets are unforgettable.

Drive Time: 5-6 hrs from Tampa via I-75 → I-10 → Hwy 98 – or @45 min drive from the closest airport
Airport: Northwest Florida Beaches Intl (ECP)
Accommodations:
- Budget: Airbnb cottage
- Mid: The Pointe on 30A
- High: WaterColor Inn
Itinerary:
- 🚴 Bike charming pastel villages
- 🏖️ Relax on soft white beaches
- 🍽️ Dinner at George’s at Alys Beach
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – leashed beach and paths

📅 Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Arrive and explore Seaside town square 🚩
Afternoon: Lounge on the beach and grab lunch from food trucks 🏖️🌯
Dinner: Enjoy Gulf-to-table dining at George’s at Alys Beach 🍽️

Day 2:

Morning: Rent bikes and explore Rosemary and Alys Beach neighborhoods 🚲
Lunch: Head to Cowgirl Kitchen or Amavida Coffee ☕️🥗
Afternoon: Paddleboarding or kayaking on Western Lake 🛶
Evening: Watch the sunset with drinks at Bud & Alley’s Rooftop Bar 🌅🍾

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Yoga on the beach or local farmers market visit 🧘‍♀️🌾
Departure

3. Cocoa Beach 🌊

Cocoa Beach is one of our favorite quick escapes from Tampa when we’re craving ocean breezes, incredible seafood, and a laid-back beach town vibe. Just under two hours away, this family-friendly yet couple-perfect destination offers something for every kind of traveler—from surf schools and space history at Kennedy Space Center 🚀 to beachfront tiki bars and upscale waterfront dining. Whether you’re enjoying fresh-caught fish tacos with your toes in the sand or sipping cocktails with a sunset view, Cocoa Beach is casual and charming.

While most beaches are not dog-friendly 🐾, you’ll find a few nearby parks and patios that welcome pups. Tip: Cocoa Beach fills up fast during rocket launch weekends, so book early for the best spots and unforgettable views!

Drive Time: ~1 hr 5 min from MCO
Airport: Orlando International (MCO)
Stays:
- Budget: La Quinta Cocoa Beach
- Mid: Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront
- High: Cocoa Beach Suites
Highlights:
- 🏄 Surf lessons & pier sunrise
- 🚤 Bioluminescent kayak tour
- 🧸 Cocoa Beach Pier shops
Trending Eats: Fat Kahuna’s, Coa
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – pier promenade & parks

🗓️ Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Check in and stroll Cocoa Beach Pier shops 🧸
Afternoon: Grab lunch at Fat Kahuna’s and hit the beach for surfing or relaxing 🌮️🏖️
Evening: Drinks and dinner with sunset views at a waterfront tiki bar 🌅🍽️

Day 2:

Morning: Visit Kennedy Space Center for a full immersive experience 🚀
Lunch: Stop at Coa or a local food truck 🌯
Afternoon: Book a bioluminescent kayak tour 🛶
Evening: Dessert and drinks at a beachside cafe or rooftop lounge 🍰🍻

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Shell hunting or paddleboard rental 🛶✨
Departure

4. St. Augustine 🏰

🏰 St. Augustine is hands down one of our absolute favorite weekend getaways from Tampa—steeped in history (St. Augustine has the distinction of being the oldest continunously inhabited European-established cities in the United States), full of charm, and overflowing with fun for the whole family (including our Labrador 🐾).

From strolling the cobblestone streets and exploring centuries-old forts to sipping handcrafted cocktails at local distilleries and enjoying wine tasting tours 🍷, this city always keeps us coming back. The holiday season is pure magic ✨, especially during the famous Nights of Lights, when the entire town glows with millions of twinkling lights. We also love staying at the Embassy Suites by Hilton, one of the many dog-friendly accommodations in town.

Don’t miss the spooky ghost tours 👻, scenic waterfront walks, and delicious coastal cuisine at the many locally-loved restaurants. St. Augustine blends adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly charm into one unforgettable escape.

Drive Time: ~3 hr 15 min from Tampa
Airport: Jacksonville Intl Airport (JAX)
Stays:
- Budget: The Flagler Inn
- Mid: St. George Inn
- High: Casa Monica Resort & Spa
Highlights:
- 🏯 Castillo de San Marcos + historic stroll
- 👻 Evening ghost tour
- 🐠 Ripley’s Aquarium visit
Trending Eats: The Floridian, Columbia Restaurant
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – historic bricks & outdoor cafes

📅 Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Arrive and stroll historic St. George Street 🏣
Afternoon: Tour Castillo de San Marcos and explore the Colonial Quarter 🏰
Dinner: Dine at The Floridian for locally sourced Southern cuisine 🍽️
Evening: Take a spooky ghost tour through the old city 👻

Day 2:

Morning: Brunch at Maple Street Biscuit Company then wine tasting at San Sebastian Winery 🍷🥞
Afternoon: Visit Lightner Museum or take a scenic boat ride along Matanzas Bay 📰⛵
Dinner: Try Columbia Restaurant’s Spanish-Cuban fare 🌮
Evening: Stroll the lit-up streets if visiting during Nights of Lights ✨🌆

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Stop at the Distillery for handcrafted cocktails and souvenirs 🍹💼
Departure

5. Cedar Key 🐚

🦪 Cedar Key is a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast—known for its laid-back, old-Florida charm, fresh clam and seafood scene, and sleepy island vibes perfect for a quiet escape.

Just a few hours’ drive from Tampa, this tiny coastal town is a step back in time, with colorful cottages, locally owned shops, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf 🌅. While it was impacted by recent hurricanes, many businesses and accommodations have bounced back beautifully, welcoming visitors once again.

Cedar Key is also dog-friendly in many public areas and outdoor eateries 🐶, though beaches are limited. It’s a great spot for kayaking, bird watching, and renting beach cruisers or paddleboards to explore the coastline. Pro tip: book lodging in advance as availability is limited, and don’t miss a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants serving up fresh clam chowder and oysters 🦪.

Drive Time: ~2 hr 15 min from Tampa
Airport: Gainesville Regional (GNV)
Stays:
- Budget: Cedar Inn
- Mid: Cedar Key Lodge
- High: Waterfront Bungalow Airbnb
Highlights:
- 🛶 Kayak mangrove creeks
- 🍲 Sample local clam chowder
- 🌅 Sunset pier walk
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – leashed docks & paths

📅 Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Arrive and stroll downtown historic shops 🛍️
Lunch: Tony’s Chowder House 🍲
Afternoon: Rent kayaks or bikes and explore the island 🛶🚲
Dinner: Seafood at Steamers Clam Bar 🍽️

Day 2:

Morning: Visit Cedar Key Historical Museum 🏛️
Midday: Birdwatching or paddle tour of surrounding keys 🦆
Lunch: 83 West on the water 🌊
Afternoon: Relax with ice cream by the pier 🍦
Dinner: Island Room for fresh fish and sunset views 🌅

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Breakfast and coffee at Kona Joe’s ☕
Leisure walk or shell hunting on the beach 🐚
Departure

6. St. George Island 🏝️

🏖️ St. George Island is one of Florida’s most tranquil and unspoiled barrier islands, perfect for those seeking a laid-back, nature-focused escape. Located in Florida’s Panhandle, this destination offers pristine beaches, a quaint local vibe, and zero high-rises—just pure coastal charm. It’s about a 5.5 to 6-hour drive from Tampa, making it ideal for a long weekend. Whether you’re into shelling, biking, paddleboarding, or fishing, this island has it all.

Foodies will enjoy the fresh Gulf seafood, especially at local favorites like The Blue Parrot 🐟. The island is very dog-friendly, with pups welcome on most beaches and even some restaurant patios 🐾. For the best experience, visit in spring or early fall when the weather is ideal and crowds are light. Pro tip: book early, as accommodations fill up quickly, especially beachfront homes and pet-friendly rentals.

Drive Time: 6 hrs from Tampa
Airport: Tallahassee Intl Airport (TLH)
Accommodations:
- Budget: State Park cabins
- Mid: Beachhouse Airbnb
- High: Gulf-front private rentals
Highlights:
- 🐦 Birdwatching on dunes
- 🛥️ Lighthouse climb & preserve
- 🏄 Beach paddleboarding/fishing
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – leashed coastal trails

🗓️ Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Arrive and walk along the uncrowded beach for shelling 🐚
Afternoon: Visit St. George Island Lighthouse and climb for scenic views ⛰️
Dinner: Enjoy seafood at Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe 🍽️

Day 2:

Morning: Go kayaking or paddleboarding around the island 🛶
Lunch: Stop by BJ’s Pizza and Subs for casual local fare 🍕
Afternoon: Explore birdwatching trails or relax on the dunes 🐦
Dinner: Cook fresh catch in your vacation rental kitchen or grill outdoors 🌿

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Bike ride along coastal paths or visit nearby Apalachicola 🚴
Departure

7. Anna Maria Island 🌅

🌴 Anna Maria Island is a charming, old-Florida gem located just under 1.5 hours from Tampa, making it one of the most popular weekend beach getaways for locals. Known for its powdery white sand beaches, turquoise Gulf waters, and laid-back coastal charm, this island offers a relaxing escape from city life. The vibe is a perfect blend of romantic and family-friendly, with quaint cottages, boutique shops, and an excellent food scene—don’t miss the fish tacos at Poppo’s or the sunset views from The Sandbar Restaurant 🌅🍽️.

While Anna Maria’s beaches are not dog-friendly, especially for larger breeds like our Labrador, there are pet-friendly accommodations and dog parks nearby. Parking can be limited, so consider renting bikes or a golf cart to get around. Plan ahead, as lodging fills up quickly, especially during spring break and summer. For a quieter experience, early fall or late spring are ideal times to visit.

Drive Time: 1 hr
Airport: Sarasota-Bradenton Intl (SRQ)
Accommodations:
- Budget: Anna Maria Island Motel
- Mid: BridgeWalk Resort
- High: Retreat at Cortez
Highlights:
- 🌅 Bean Point sunrise beach
- 🚲 Leisurely island bike ride
- 🐟 Seafood lunch downtown
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – Manatee Public Beach

🗓️ Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Arrive and bike around Holmes Beach and Pine Ave 🚲
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at The Sandbar with toes in the sand 🍽️
Evening: Sunset stroll and ice cream from Two Scoops 🍦

Day 2:

Morning: Paddleboard or kayak through mangroves 🛶
Lunch: Stop at Poppo’s Taqueria for tacos 🌮
Afternoon: Shop local boutiques and visit Anna Maria Island Historical Society 🌐
Dinner: Waterfront dining at Beach Bistro 🍽️

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Visit Manatee Public Beach or relax at Bean Point 🏖️
Departure

8. Key Largo (Upper Florida Keys) 🐬

Key Largo is our go-to escape when we crave a luxury yet laid-back getaway with ocean views and adventure. Staying at Baker’s Cay Resort with our Labrador was a dream—this resort knows how to welcome both people and pets in style.

We loved the scenic walking paths, dog-friendly beach, and amazing on-site dining. The nearby John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must for snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours, and local seafood joints never disappoint. Whether you’re diving into turquoise waters or watching the sunset over the bay, Key Largo offers a serene and soul-refreshing weekend getaway from Tampa.

Drive Time: ~6 hr+ from Tampa
Airport: Miami International Airport (MIA)
Stay Options:
- Budget: Rock Reef Resort
- Mid: Reefhouse Resort & Marina
- High: Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton (🌟 Pet-Friendly!)
Highlights:
- 🐠 Snorkel or dive at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- 🛶 Eco kayak tours through mangrove tunnels
- 🌅 Sunset views from waterfront tiki bars
- 🦞 Fresh seafood at local favorites like The Fish House
- 🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – Baker’s Cay and many spots nearby welcome dogs!

🗓️ Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Arrive and settle into your waterfront stay 🏖️
Afternoon: Enjoy cocktails and kayaking at the resort 🍹⛵
Dinner: Sunset dinner at The Fish House 🍽️

Day 2:

Morning: Snorkeling tour at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park 🐠
Lunch: Grab conch fritters at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen 🍽️
Afternoon: Explore local shops and relax at resort beach ☕️🏖️
Evening: Tiki bar drinks and firepit s’mores 🚫🍪

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Glass-bottom boat ride or paddleboarding 🛶
Departure

9. Islamorada (Keys) 🎣

Islamorada, Florida Keys – A Laid-Back Paradise for Ocean Lovers

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of relaxation and ocean adventure, Islamorada delivers. Just a 6-hour drive from Tampa or accessible via Miami International Airport (MIA), this slice of the Keys is ideal for fishing fanatics, snorkelers, and seafood lovers. Enjoy lazy afternoons at tiki lounges, kayak out to Indian Key, or explore vibrant patch reefs teeming with marine life.

Islamorada’s relaxed island vibe makes it popular with couples, small groups, and families alike. Bonus: it’s dog-friendly, and many hotels welcome pets—perfect for travelers like us who never leave home without our Labrador. For best availability, book early, especially during winter and spring when snowbirds flock south.

Drive Time: ~6 hr from Tampa
Airport: Miami Intl Airport (MIA)
Stay Options:
- Budget: Breezy Palms Motel
- Mid: Islander Resort
- High: Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Highlights:
- 🦐 Fishing charters or Tiki lounges
- 🛶 Kayak to Indian Key
- 🐠 Snorkel patch reef
🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – most lodging welcome pets

🗓️ Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Check into resort and explore the pool and beach 🏖️
Afternoon: Book a fishing charter or snorkel trip 🐠🎣
Dinner: Dinner and live music at Morada Bay Beach Cafe 🍽️

Day 2:

Morning: Kayak or paddleboard to Indian Key Historic State Park 🛶
Lunch: Fresh catch tacos at Lazy Days Restaurant 🌮
Afternoon: Browse local art galleries or relax at the beach 🎨
Dinner: Romantic meal at Chef Michael’s 🍽️

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Visit History of Diving Museum or walk the Old Road Gallery 🔺
Departure

10. Destin & 30A 🌴

Destin & 30A: Gulf Coast Charm Meets Laid-Back Luxury 🏖️

Known for its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters, Destin and the scenic 30A coastline (including Seaside, Rosemary, and Alys Beach) are top-tier weekend destinations along Florida’s Panhandle. With a mix of chic beach towns, award-winning restaurants, boutique shopping, and outdoor activities like paddleboarding, biking, and sunset sailing, this area caters to families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.

The food scene is a delicious blend of fresh Gulf seafood, elevated Southern fare, and stylish coastal eateries—perfect for foodies looking to indulge. While beaches in some 30A towns limit dog access, there are pet-friendly rentals and restaurants, and leashed pups are often welcome in many public areas. Travel tip: Book early during peak seasons (spring break and summer), as this region is a favorite among both locals and out-of-state visitors.

Whether you’re craving beach relaxation or lively boardwalk energy, Destin and 30A offer a memorable Gulf Coast escape.

Drive Time: ~6 hr from Tampa
Airport: Destin-Fort Walton Beach (VPS)
Stays:
- Budget: Motel 6 Destin
- Mid: Henderson Park Inn
- High: Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort
Highlights:
- 🏖️ Emerald Coast beaches
- 🛶 Boat tour + dolphin monitoring
- 🌇 30A scenic beach drive
- 🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes – many condos accept pets

🗓️ Sample 2–3 Day Itinerary, Day 1:

Morning: Arrive in Destin, brunch at Another Broken Egg Cafe 🍽️
Afternoon: Relax on Henderson Beach or Crystal Sands 🏖️
Dinner: Fresh seafood at Dewey Destin’s 🌮

Day 2:

Morning: Explore 30A towns by bike (Seaside, Alys, Rosemary) 🚴
Lunch: Picnic at Seaside Food Trucks 🌮🍽️
Afternoon: Paddleboard on dune lakes or go dolphin cruising 🛶🐬
Dinner: Elegant meal at The Red Bar or Surfing Deer 🍽️

Day 3 (Optional):

Morning: Morning yoga or shopping at Silver Sands Premium Outlets 💼
Departure

Top 10 Florida Weekend Getaways: Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving coastal calm, historic charm, or sun-soaked adventure, Florida offers a diverse range of weekend getaways perfect for every kind of traveler. From the sugar-white sands of Destin and 30A to the laid-back vibes of Cedar Key and Islamorada, each destination on our list delivers something special—without requiring a long-haul flight or exhausting planning.

With just two or three days, you can paddleboard through mangroves in Key Largo, sip sunset cocktails in Anna Maria Island, or stroll the cobblestone streets of St. Augustine. Road-trippable, relaxing, and rich in experiences, these Florida gems prove that the perfect escape is often just a few hours away. Wherever your weekend wanderlust leads, let Pure Life Podcast help you make the most of it—one unforgettable getaway at a time.

Be sure to check out our Destinations and Florida pages for more information about visiting this and other top Florida attractions.

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