Cruise ports are located in resort towns which are a great opportunity to extend the trip on land, before or after the ship's itinerary, visitors can choose to stay longer and explore new horizons, immerse themselves in unique cultures and create unforgettable memories. . VISIT FLORIDA has selected some recommendations to make the most of your vacation in Florida.
Miami
Miami is a world-renowned tourist destination with a wide range of activities for all types of travelers. The Port of Miami is the departure point for numerous cruise ships, including the Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world. The city offers vibrant nightlife in South Beach, cultural experiences in Little Havana, street art in Wynwood, and historic gems like the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Additionally, Crandon Park Beach in Key Biscayne provides the opportunity to enjoy nature with its long beaches and recreational options such as tennis and golf.
Miami is also a paradise for lovers of outdoor activity and entertainment. Crandon Park Beach, located on the island of Key Biscayne, offers a perfect getaway with its white sand beaches and various sports facilities, including a 27-court tennis center and a world-class golf course. This combination of cultural, recreational and natural attractions makes Miami a must-see destination for those seeking a complete and diverse South Florida tourism experience.
Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, known as the "Venice of America," captivates visitors with its complex system of canals, stunning beaches and a diverse offering of restaurants and shopping centers along its 37 kilometers of coastline. Water and nature activities are popular, from boating to exploring the nearby Everglades Holiday Park. A recommended cultural excursion is the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, an iconic attraction that combines art, history and ecology in the heart of the city.
From Fort Lauderdale, travelers can take the Brightline train to reach West Palm Beach in 35 minutes, exploring more attractions in The Palm Beaches County region. Highlights include the Flagler Museum and John D. MacArthur State Park, which offer historic and natural experiences in Southeast Florida.
Tampa
Tampa is a city that combines historic architecture with modern skyscrapers, picturesque canals and a vibrant Spanish and Cuban influenced food culture. Its downtown is home to the Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile promenade that connects notable attractions such as renowned bars and restaurants, including historic Columbia. Additionally, the city offers family entertainment with options such as the Florida Aquarium and Busch Gardens, a theme park with more than 2,000 animals and thrilling roller coasters.
Near Tampa, St. Pete/Clearwater offers 35 miles of award-winning beaches and attractions like the Salvador Dali Museum. For those looking to explore further afield, Crystal River, just 90 minutes away, offers the unique opportunity to swim with manatees, curious creatures that frequent Florida's warm waters between November and April.
Orlando
Orlando, located less than an hour from Port Canaveral, is a versatile destination that perfectly complements a pre- or post-cruise trip. Known as the theme park capital of the world, it offers exciting experiences at iconic locations such as Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Plus, the city has outdoor activities like kayaking in crystal-clear springs and airboat rides in the Kissimmee Everglades.
A short drive north of Orlando, Winter Park provides a quieter experience with upscale shopping districts, fine dining, and recreational activities like biking, hiking, and boating along its scenic canals. Near Port Canaveral, the Kennedy Space Center offers a fascinating look at the US space program, including exploration of the space shuttle Atlantis and the chance to witness rocket launches. For motorsports enthusiasts, Daytona International Speedway, an hour and a half away, is a must-see point of interest with behind-the-scenes experiences and the chance to relax on Daytona's beaches at the end of the day.
Jacksonville
Jacksonville, located on the northeast coast of Florida, is a diverse city with 35 kilometers of beaches and a prominent arts and cultural scene. Its port, Jax, is the ideal starting point before or after a cruise, providing access to a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, surfing, hiking and biking in local parks and trails. Sports fans will also find fun in Jacksonville, with options ranging from the Jacksonville Jaguars to world-class rugby and golf events.
Jacksonville's cultural aspect is seen at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Northeast Florida's largest fine arts museum, notable for its accessibility and inclusivity. Less than an hour from the port, St. Augustine offers history with its monuments and museums, while the St. Augustine Distillery provides a unique experience. On the other hand, less than 50 minutes away is Amelia Island, ideal for family or romantic getaways with beaches, horseback riding and an excellent gastronomic offer.
Source: Visit Florida.