South Florida is a haven for beach goers from every part of the country, but this part of Florida is not just about sand and sun. South Florida is known for being the top producers of watermelons in the US, having the most toll roads of any other state, and home to both crocodiles and alligators, who generally do not tend to live in the same location. South Florida is actually one of the few places in the world you can find these two separate species living together. South Florida has a lot to offer travelers, so if you have yet to visit, try these amazing southern Florida locations.
West Palm Beach might sound like a sleepy little town, but rest assured it is not. This bustling city is home to over 115,000 people and growing. Retirees have traditionally been attracted to this part of the state, but more recently, an increasing number of young professionals and families are beginning to call the place home. Travelers enjoy the homey feel of West Palm Beach with the action and exhilaration of a larger city.
Although it is not as large as some cities, West Palm Beach does have various ways to travel in and around the city. Palm Tram and Tri-Rail are two public transit options for both residents and visitors. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to fly into the Palm Beach International Airport. The airport serves as the 3rd busiest airport in the area, so there are plenty of flights to be found.
West Palm Beach is home to a variety of different attractions for the whole family. Rapids Water Park is a popular place to cool off from the heat of the summer and they offer cabana rentals to help keep you and your family refreshed during the day.
While visiting any of the parks, make sure you visit the closest bike shop to rent a bicycle and enjoy even more fun under the sun. The Palm Beach Zoo is another fun activity for travelers with children and for those who want to invest in a little culture, the Norton Museum of Art is exceptional.
While visiting West Palm Beach, you will be entranced by the various aromas wafting through the air. Make no mistake about it, West Palm Beach is the place to go for amazing food. A few of the most famous restaurants include Havana Restaurant, Rhythm Café, and Okeechobee Steak House. Each place is different, but the classic Cuban influence is felt in every eatery in the area, so get ready to relax and enjoy some incredible food options.
Travelers seeking an even more relaxed atmosphere should venture to Boca Raton. This area has been a welcomed escape for retirees for generations, but that is certainly not a bad thing. Boca Raton is a quintessential Florida town. Some consider it to be the traditional side of Florida. The over 97,000 residents that call this place home certainly love it and visitors will too.
When traveling to Boca Raton, visitors can fly in through the Boca Raton Airport or drive their personal vehicle. However, if you happen to be traveling without a personal vehicle, not to worry, Boca Raton maintains the Tri-Rail system that services West Palm Beach as well. 18 stations service the entire system. The city is also very walkable, so you never have to worry about being without a way to get around.
Boca Raton is full of natural beauty that can be experienced in the variety of parks available. Sugar Sand Park, Deerfield Island Park, and South Inlet Beach Park are just a few of the many parks available in the city. On days that are not so sunny or you want to take a break from the sun, the Children’s Science emporium and the Boca Express Train Museum are ideal. However, if adventure is what you and the family seek, Quiet Waters Park offers skiing, fishing, and more.
In classic Floridian style, Boca Raton manages to hold on to a unique laid back restaurant atmosphere. While dining out, even in the most sophisticated establishments, you will see beach casual wear. Among the most popular restaurants are Seasons 52 and TwentyTwenty Grille. Before venturing out to your chosen restaurant, ask the concierge at your hotel for their recommendations and if a particular restaurant requires reservations. Even some of the more casual establishments in Boca Raton attempt to manage crowds by requiring reservations.
Fort Lauderdale has always been a popular vacation spot and haven for those looking to retire in a sunny location. Its almost 200,000 residents are a mix of retirees and young professionals, so visiting means you will be surrounded by plenty of locals looking to show you around, no matter your age. Sun and sand are almost a religion here and the city experiences over 3,000 hours of amazing sunlight annually.
Visiting Fort Lauderdale allows you to experience a laid back, yet sophisticated lifestyle with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Naturally, in this sun soaked location, outdoor activities reign supreme. Popular beaches include, Las Olas Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, and John U Lloyd Beach State Park. Each one is different and should certainly be a part of your travel plans.
Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable city. Additionally, the use of bikes, golf carts, and personal electric vehicles is very common. However, for travelers looking to travel to the area without their own personal vehicle, public transit is an excellent option. The city has a variety of public transit options to choose from. Sun Trolley, AAI Golf Cart Transport, and Hollywood Trolley are available, but there is also the Fort Lauderdale Bus Loop. This transportation remains as the king transport service for locals and tourists alike. All public transit in Fort Lauderdale is known to be clean, affordable, and efficient.
This city is a classically coastal environment, so the restaurant scene reflects that fact. Therefore, restaurant pricing can be a little expensive. However, most establishments offer weekly specials and early bird deals, but remember, you can always find a less expensive option if you choose to eat lunch out. Popular restaurants include Andy’s Live Fire Grille, Premiere Café and Bar, and Casablanca Café. Due to its location, many restaurants here offer seaside dining, so make sure you find your favorite spot perched directly on the ocean.
Traveling through South Florida is an enjoyable experience and if true joy and excitement is what you are after, Miami is the place to be. This location is the hot spot of the region full of night clubs, trendy bars, and unique restaurants. The energy in Miami seems to be electrified. Beautiful people and a never ending list of things to keep your busy is what you can expect. The almost 500,000 residents that call Miami home enjoy the sites sounds, and endless entertainment. So do the visitors.
Among the most popular attractions in Miami are the endless beaches. Bayfront Beach, Virginia Key Beach, and South Point Park are just a few of the many beaches visitors have to choose from. When the sun and sand become too much, but you still want to enjoy the outdoors, try Jungle Island. This wildlife park offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of native animals. Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens is also in Miami giving you to chance to see some breathtaking tropical plants.
For the children, consider a trip to the Miami Children’s Museum or the Miami Seaquarium. Both places are great for getting out of the sun and enjoying cooler environments. The children’s museum is especially enjoyable if you have young kids looking to explore and learn in a safe space. The museum regularly has specialized events, so check out their schedule before venturing inside.
One thing you will do on your visit to Miami is eat. Cultures of all types are on display in the many restaurants along the Miami coastline. Although a large Cuban culture is evident, Latin, Greek, and Jewish influences are felt as well. Try out Cvi.Chi to tempt your Peruvian pallet or venture to Versailes Restaurants to harken to your Caribbean side. The restaurant scene in Miami can be a bit pricey, but the experience of eating authentic dishes is simply unparalleled. This is a city you will never get bored in as there is always something to do or something delectable to snack on.
South Florida largely has a reputation for being a haven for retirees and that is somewhat true. However, as more people choose to live their dreams of living on the coast before they retire, we are seeing more young professionals, families, and people from all genres of life. If you have never been to South Florida, or it has been many years since you ventured to this part of the country, what are you waiting for. Come down and see what South Florida has to offer. You will not leave dissatisfied. Great places to rest your head and endless entertainment will keep you busy the entire time you are here.
