Florida Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Florida is your golden ticket to world-famous theme parks, scorching sunshine, and beaches you’ll never want to leave.

Holidays to Florida 2026 Highlights

🎢 Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and 19 other theme parks, this is the undisputed world capital of family fun
🏖️ Over 800 miles of sandy coastline, from the buzzing shores of South Beach to the sugar-white sands of Clearwater
🍽️ A food scene that goes way beyond burgers, think fresh stone crab, Cuban sandwiches in Little Havana and key lime pie that'll change your life
✈️ One of the easiest long-haul jollies from the UK, direct flights from most major airports, no visa needed (just a quick ESTA) and everyone speaks English

Good To Know

☀️ Florida lives up to its Sunshine State nickname with average highs of 28-33°C in summer and a pleasant 15-25°C in winter, you're looking at around 230 days of sunshine a year
💵 A pint will set you back around $7-9, and a sit-down meal at a casual restaurant runs about $15-25 per person, though portions are massive, so you'll get your money's worth. Don't forget to budget for tipping (15-20% is standard)
🐊 Florida is home to an estimated 1.3 million wild alligators, more than any other US state. You're most likely to spot them in the Everglades, but they pop up in golf course ponds and hotel pools too

🗣️ Local Lingo – Talk Like a Floridian

Visiting Florida? The Sunshine State has some phrases and slang you’ll want to know to fit in like a local:

🌴 “The Keys” – Refers to the Florida Keys, a chain of islands off the southern tip. Don’t just say “the islands,” or you’ll get blank stares!

🏖️ “Beach day” – This isn’t just any outing – it’s an all-day affair of sunbathing, swimming, and maybe a cold drink or two.

🚤 “Boating” – Pretty much everyone in Florida has a love for boats. If someone invites you boating, expect a day on the water, fishing, or cruising along the coast.

🌀 “Hurricane season” – June to November. Locals are chill but prepared. Know this term so you don’t get caught off guard.

🍊 “Citrus” – Florida oranges are legendary. You’ll hear locals talking about citrus groves or fresh-squeezed OJ everywhere you go.

Knowing these will have you sounding like a Floridian in no time, from Miami beaches to the Keys!

🏨 Where’s the Best Place to Stay in Florida?

Orlando is the undisputed king of family holidays. With Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld all within easy reach, it's theme park heaven. Most of Florida's biggest hotels are clustered around the International Drive strip, which is handy for parks, restaurants and outlet shopping.
Miami is where it's at for couples and groups. South Beach delivers Art Deco cool, buzzing nightlife and gorgeous sandy beaches, while neighbourhoods like Little Havana and Wynwood bring serious culture and food cred. It's also your jumping-off point for the Florida Keys.
Fort Lauderdale sits about 45 minutes north of Miami and is known as the "Venice of America" for its canal system. Beautiful beaches, a revamped waterfront and a more laid-back vibe make it a proper good pick for couples or anyone who wants the South Florida sunshine without the South Beach price tag.
Fort Myers is your gateway to the Gulf Coast, with white sand beaches, stunning sunsets and a slower pace of life. It's only a short hop to Sanibel Island — one of the best shelling beaches in the world — and makes a brilliant base for a chilled-out beach holiday away from the theme park crowds.

What are the best beaches to head to on your Florida holidays?

The Sunshine State is home to over 815 miles of sandy coast and several cities built around their local beaches. We bet you’ve heard of some of these big names before, but there are plenty of hidden gems to discover too.

Daytona Beach – the world’s most famous beach, with 23 miles of sandy coast packed with attractions, plus some major motorsports events.
Siesta Beach – picture-perfect and award-winning, Siesta’s soft sands are perfect for a day of sunbathing, followed by a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park – pristine sands and incredible views make this beach a favourite for relaxing, walking, and cycling.
Cocoa Beach Pier – the perfect place for all the family to take surfing lessons, or just watch the pros from the historical boardwalk.
Shell Island – for a true getaway, this undeveloped barrier island offers nothing but nature and peace - ideal for unwinding.

🏨 What are the top hotels for your holidays to Florida?

Whether you want to stay right in the heart of the action or enjoy some laid-back luxury, Florida’s hotel game is mega. Here are some of our top picks:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge — Wake up to zebras and giraffes right outside your window. Set within a 33-acre wildlife preserve inside Disney World, this one is pure magic for the kids. Three different savannahs, themed pools and African-inspired restaurants make it a proper experience.
DoubleTree Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando — Sitting directly opposite the entrance to Universal Orlando, this family-friendly spot keeps you right in the thick of the action. Outdoor pool, great dining options and those famous warm cookies on arrival. Universal thrills + cookies = winning combo.
Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista — If you want to save your pennies for the parks, this is a solid budget-friendly pick. Comfortable rooms, outdoor pools and only a short drive to both Disney and Universal. Great value for a family holiday to Florida.
Universal's Endless Summer Resort — Dockside Inn & Suites — A brilliant value option right within Universal Orlando Resort. Two bedroom suites sleep up to six, there are two pools, a splash pad and you get early park admission and free shuttles to the parks.

💑 Best for Couples

Waldorf Astoria Orlando — Pure luxury overlooking a winding creek and championship golf course. The Guerlain spa, rooftop cabana pool and Bull & Bear steakhouse make this a five-star treat for a couples' holiday you won't forget.
1 Hotel South Beach — A stunning five-star beachfront hotel in Miami Beach with two oceanside pools, a rooftop restaurant serving Peruvian-Japanese fusion and a sustainability ethos that runs through everything. Proper boujee.
Don CeSar Beach Resort — This iconic pink palace on St Pete Beach is a Florida landmark. Private beach, two heated pools, a relaxing spa and gorgeous Gulf Coast sunsets. A brilliant pick for a romantic beach holiday.
Rosen Shingle Creek — A five-star stay with a championship golf course, full-service spa and separate pools for relaxing or playing. If you want to pair theme park days with properly luxurious evenings, this is your spot.

✨ Luxury Picks

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World — The ultimate splurge. Located inside Disney World gates, this combines Four Seasons elegance with Disney magic. A rooftop steakhouse, lazy river, adult-only pool and kids' splash zone mean it works brilliantly for families and couples alike.
Fontainebleau Miami Beach — An icon of Miami glamour with over ten pools, world-class restaurants and a nightclub on site. Beachfront location, cabanas by the sand and an adults-only party pool. This is Miami at its most fabulous.

💰 Budget-Friendly

Quality Suites Lake Buena Vista — An all-suites hotel close to the theme parks with full kitchens in every room, outdoor pool, hot tub and complimentary American breakfast. Brilliant for keeping costs down when you're spending your days (and your dollars) in the parks.
Universal's Endless Summer Resort — Surfside Inn & Suites — A surf-themed value hotel within Universal Orlando Resort. Family-friendly two bedroom suites, outdoor pool, fitness centre and those all-important early park admission perks and free park shuttles.

Florida holidays 2026 travel guide

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to Do for Families in Florida

If there is one place that has absolutely nailed family holidays, it is Florida. It is practically the world capital of "best holiday ever," with enough magic, thrills, and sunshine to keep the kiddos (and the grown-ups) buzzing for weeks.

Walt Disney World - the ultimate bucket list ticker - meet the big cheese himself, ride the classics and watch the fireworks pop.
Universal Orlando Resort - from sipping Butterbeer in Hogsmeade to causing chaos with Minions, this place delivers the goods.
Clearwater Beach - expect sugar-white sands and shallow waters that are perfect for younger swimmers and sandcastle architects.
Everglades National Park - swap the theme parks for the swamps on a wild airboat ride to spot real-life gators.

💑 Things to Do for Couples in Florida

Florida might be famous for mouse ears and rollercoasters, but it is also a top-tier spot for romance. Whether you want boujee spa days or sunset cocktails, the Sunshine State brings the all the love you could ever want for your next couples' holiday...

South Beach, Miami - spend the day topping up the tan before hitting the town for a swanky night out.
St. Augustine - wander the cobblestone streets of the oldest city in the US for major historic vibes.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando - treat yourselves to a swanky spa day followed by a dinner that is straight-up delish.
Key West Sunsets - head to Mallory Square with a drink in hand to watch the sun dip - pure Insta-feed fodder.

🎉 Things to Do for Groups in Florida

Gather the squad because holidays to Florida are unbeatable for a group getaway. From screaming your lungs out on world-class coasters to partying in Miami, there is zero chance of anyone getting bored.

Universal Studios - braving the VelociCoaster together is the ultimate bonding experience - scream if you want to go faster!
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - a whopper of a day out mixing white-knuckle thrill rides with incredible animal encounters.
Cocoa Beach - get active with some surf lessons or rent a boat for a day of jet-skiing action.
Miami Nightlife - South Beach is the place to be for cocktails and dancing until the sun comes up.

🍽️ Things to Do for Foodies in Florida

Foodies, rejoice! The Florida food scene is absolutely sizzling with flavours from all over the globe. Forget just burgers and fries; we are talking fresh seafood, spicy Cuban beats and sweet treats that are 100% worth the calories.

Little Havana - this Miami neighbourhood is the king of Cuban cuisine - grab a Cubano sandwich and a strong coffee.
Disney Springs - a total haven for food lovers, offering everything from fancy sit-down meals to quirky food trucks.
Key Lime Pie - you cannot leave Florida without trying a slice of this zesty, creamy, biscuit-based masterpiece.
Fresh Stone Crab - head to a seafood shack on the coast for some of the freshest catch you will ever eat.

Other places to visit on your Florida holidays:

Popular Florida hotels

More Florida hotels

Stunning Florida resorts

Weather in Florida

JAN

16^°C

FEB

16^°C

MAR

20^°C

APR

22^°C

MAY

25^°C

JUN

27^°C

JUL

28^°C

AUG

28^°C

SEP

27^°C

OCT

24^°C

NOV

19^°C

DEC

16^°C

Summer in the Sunshine State is exactly what it sounds like – a scorcher, with the mercury chilling at a sizzling 30°C to 33°C. But no sweat, Florida's got the cool factor sorted. Those arvo rain showers are like the mate who pops by for a quick hello, then scoots off, leaving you to soak up the beach vibes.

Then there's autumn, or as we like to call it, Florida's way of giving us a cheeky nod. Things mellow out to a lush 25°C to 30°C. It's the bangin' sweet spot for conquering theme parks without turning into a human lollipop, or catching a sunset that doesn't demand you bundle up. Florida's weather? It's the ultimate wingman, setting the scene for your holibobs.

Winter, though? It's the hidden gem, the secret season where Florida struts its stuff while the rest of the place is digging out scarves. With temps hanging out at a comfy 15°C to 25°C, you can live the dream with beach days in January or sneak in a round of golf without the frostbite. Heading south in the winter is a top-tier move for those chasing the sunshine.

And let's natter about spring – it's like Florida's serving up a sunny grin, with the thermostat playing it cool between 20°C and 30°C. Whether you're here for the outdoor bashes or just fancy a leisurely wander, spring in Florida is a mahoosive thumbs up.

FAQs

Direct flights from the UK to Florida take between 8 hours 45 minutes and 10 hours, depending on your departure airport and destination within the state. Florida is large, and flight times vary slightly between cities.

Typical direct flight times:

London Gatwick/Heathrow → Orlando: approx. 9–9h 30m
London → Miami: approx. 9h 30m–10h
Manchester → Orlando: approx. 9h–9h 30m

Airlines including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, TUI Airways and Norse Atlantic operate direct routes.

Connecting flights (via cities like New York, Atlanta or Dublin) usually take 11–14 hours total, depending on your layover.

Airports:

Orlando International (MCO) - best for theme parks
Miami International (MIA) - best for beaches and city breaks
Tampa International (TPA) - best for Gulf Coast resorts

Overnight flights are common, meaning you can sleep on board and arrive ready to start your holiday.

Florida operates on Eastern Time (ET) - either Eastern Standard Time (EST, UTC-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT, UTC-4).

Because both the UK and the US observe daylight saving time (but change on different dates), the time difference can briefly shift.

Most of the year:

Florida is 5 hours behind the UK

Short transition periods (March & October/November):

The difference can be 4 hours for a couple of weeks

Example:

2pm in London = 9am in Florida

Jet lag is noticeable on arrival, especially with morning landings, but most travellers adjust within a few days.

Florida uses the US Dollar (USD) $.

Notes: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢ (quarters are widely used)

What UK travellers should know:

Cards:
Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere; Amex is also widely accepted in the US
Contactless:
Common, but chip-and-PIN or signature may still be required
Cash:
Useful for tipping, small purchases and toll roads
ATMs:
Widely available
Before you go:
You can buy US dollars in the UK, unlike closed currencies

Important: Prices in shops and restaurants are shown before sales tax (typically 6–7.5% depending on county), so the final amount at checkout will be slightly higher.

The primary language in Florida is English, and you’ll have no issues communicating anywhere as a UK traveller.

However, Florida, particularly cities like Miami, is highly multicultural.

Languages you’ll hear:

English:
Used everywhere in tourism, transport and business
Spanish:
Very widely spoken, especially in South Florida
Haitian Creole:
Common in parts of Miami

In most tourist areas, staff are bilingual, and signage is often in both English and Spanish.

Florida is one of the most popular long-haul destinations for UK travellers because it combines theme parks, beaches, nature and city breaks in one trip.

What makes Florida stand out:

World-famous theme parks:
Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and more
Beaches:
From the Atlantic coast to the Gulf of Mexico, white sand, warm water and year-round sunshine
Weather:
Subtropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year
Variety:
You can combine Orlando, Miami, the Keys and the Gulf Coast in one holiday
Shopping:
Outlet malls and large retail centres with competitive prices
Wildlife:
Everglades National Park, manatees, dolphins and alligators

It’s a destination that works equally well for families, couples and multi-centre trips.

In most cases - yes, hiring a car is strongly recommended.

Florida is a large, spread-out state, and public transport is limited outside a few city areas.

When you’ll need a car:

Staying in a villa or off-site accommodation
Visiting multiple parks in Orlando
Exploring beyond your resort (shopping malls, restaurants, beaches)
Travelling between cities (e.g. Orlando to Miami)

When you might not need one:

Staying in an on-site Disney or Universal hotel (transport included)
Booking a package with transfers and guided excursions

Good to know:

Driving is on the right-hand side
Automatic cars are standard
Parking is widely available (often paid at theme parks and hotels)
Tolls are common, check if your rental includes a toll pass

Tipping in Florida and across the US is expected and part of everyday culture, not optional.

Typical tipping guidelines:

Restaurants (table service):
18–22% of the bill
Bars:
$1–$2 per drink or 15–20%
Taxis/Uber:
10–20%
Hotel housekeeping:
$2–$5 per night
Valet parking:
$2–$5 when collecting your car

Important:

Tips are a major part of workers’ income
Some restaurants automatically add a “gratuity”(especially for larger groups), check your bill before tipping extra

If service is good, tipping at the higher end is standard.

Florida is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on weather, crowds and price.

Best overall time:

March to May - warm temperatures, lower humidity, fewer crowds than peak summer

Season by season:

December–April (dry season):

Warm, sunny, low humidity
Temperatures: 20–28°C
Peak tourist season (especially Christmas, New Year, Easter)

May–September (summer):

Hot and humid (28–34°C)
Afternoon thunderstorms common
Best for water parks and beach weather

June–November (hurricane season):

Peak risk: August–October
Storms are usually short-lived but can disrupt travel

Best months for UK travellers:

March, April, May, October

Florida is one of the best family holiday destinations in the world.

Why it works so well for families:

Theme parks: Walt Disney World, Universal, SeaWorld and LEGOLAND Florida
Accommodation choice: Villas with private pools, family resorts, themed hotels
Child-friendly infrastructure: Restaurants, attractions and transport designed for families
Entertainment beyond parks: Water parks, beaches, wildlife parks, airboat rides

Good to know:

Distances are large - plan rest days between park visits
Queue times can be long - consider skip-the-line passes
Summer heat can be intense for younger children

For families, Orlando is usually the main base, often combined with a beach stay.

Spending money for Florida varies depending on your travel style, but it’s generally more expensive than many European destinations.

Rough daily budget (per person):

Budget: $70–$100
Mid-range: $100–$180
Higher-end: $180+

Typical costs:

Meal at casual restaurant: $15–$25
Theme park food: $20–$30 per meal
Beer: $6–$9
Coffee: $4–$6
Theme park tickets: $100–$180 per day

Extra costs to factor in:

Tips (18–22%)
Sales tax (added at checkout)
Car hire, fuel and parking
Park extras (fast passes, experiences, souvenirs)

For a 2-week holiday:

Many UK travellers budget $1,200–$2,000 per person excluding major pre-paid costs

Florida can be done on a budget, but most visitors find costs add up quickly, especially with theme parks and dining out.

Florida is a long-haul destination where world-famous theme parks, white-sand beaches and year-round sunshine come together, and where a 9-hour flight from the UK lands you somewhere built as much for experiences as it is for relaxation. Whether you're heading for the rollercoasters of Orlando, the Art Deco streets of Miami, or the laid-back Gulf Coast sunsets, this is a place that packs multiple holidays into one. Explore our guides to the best theme parks, beaches, shopping and places to visit in Florida and start planning a holiday that goes far beyond the poolside.

What events can I go to in Florida?
What events and festivals happen in Florida?
Florida hosts events year-round, from major sporting fixtures and music festivals to food celebrations and cultural parades. Timing your trip around one of these can completely change the feel of your holiday, but it can also mean higher prices and busier resorts, so it’s worth planning ahead.
Here are some of the standout annual events across the state:
January - Gasparilla Pirate Festival (Tampa)
A unique Tampa tradition dating back over 100 years. The city stages a full pirate “invasion” by sea, followed by a huge parade, street parties and live entertainment. Think Mardi Gras with a pirate theme.
February - DAYTONA 500 (Daytona Beach)
The biggest event in the NASCAR calendar, drawing over 100,000 spectators. Even if you’re not a motorsport fan, the atmosphere, flyovers and scale make it one of Florida’s most iconic sporting events.
February - Florida State Fair (Tampa)
A classic American state fair with rides, live shows, agricultural exhibits and a huge focus on food, from deep-fried classics to local specialities.
April - Sugar Sand Festival (Clearwater Beach)
A 10-day beachfront event known for its large-scale sand sculptures, family-friendly activities and live entertainment, all set along one of Florida’s best beaches.
April - SunFest (West Palm Beach)
Florida’s largest waterfront music and arts festival, with multiple stages, big-name acts and a relaxed coastal setting.
June - Waterlily Celebration (Vero Beach)
A smaller, more relaxed event focused on nature, featuring blooming waterlilies, garden displays and family-friendly activities.
August - Key West Lobsterfest (Key West)
Marks the start of lobster season with street parties, seafood stalls, live music and a lively island atmosphere centred around Duval Street.
September - Miami Beach Pride (Miami Beach)
One of the biggest LGBTQ+ events in the southeastern US, featuring a parade, performances and city-wide celebrations.
November - Electric Daisy Carnival (Orlando)
A major electronic music festival with large-scale stage production, international DJs and immersive light shows, held over three days.
December - Winterfest Boat Parade (Fort Lauderdale)
A festive parade of decorated boats along the Intracoastal Waterway, often described as a “floating Christmas parade”.
Good to know
- Book early: Major events (especially DAYTONA 500 and EDC) drive up hotel prices and availability
- Expect crowds: Popular festivals can significantly increase footfall in otherwise relaxed areas
- Weather matters: Summer events are hot and humid, with possible afternoon storms
- Location planning: Florida is a large state - travelling between events can take several hours
Florida’s events calendar adds another layer to the destination, whether you want to plan your trip around a major festival or simply stumble across something local while you’re there.
Where's the best nightlife in Florida?
Florida’s nightlife is as varied as the state itself, from high-end Miami clubs that run until sunrise to laid-back beach bars where the night ends early with a final drink by the water. Where you go makes a huge difference to what kind of night you’ll have.
Miami - Late nights and big-name clubs
Miami is Florida’s nightlife capital, with a scene that rivals Ibiza and Las Vegas. Expect velvet ropes, dress codes and DJs that don’t come on until after midnight.
- LIV - one of the most exclusive clubs in the US, known for celebrity appearances
- E11EVEN - a 24/7 “ultra-club” with DJs, performers and a anything-goes atmosphere
Best for: big nights, groups, and late finishes
Orlando - Entertainment over all-night partying
Orlando’s nightlife is more about experiences than hardcore clubbing, especially around International Drive and Universal CityWalk.
- Rising Star - karaoke with a live band and full production
- Mango’s Tropical Cafe - dinner shows, dancing and a high-energy Latin vibe
- Funny Bone Comedy Club - casual nights with food, drinks and live stand-up
Best for: groups, couples and mixed-age nights out
Tampa (Ybor City) - Proper party district
Ybor City is one of Florida’s most concentrated nightlife areas - walkable, lively and packed with bars and clubs.
- Club Prana - five floors of music with a rooftop bar
- The streets themselves are part of the experience, especially on weekends
Best for: bar-hopping and a more relaxed, less polished night than Miami
Key West - Laid-back and iconic
Nightlife here is less about clubs and more about bar hopping with live music.
- Sloppy Joe’s - a historic bar once frequented by Ernest Hemingway
- Duval Street - the centre of it all, with open doors, live bands and a anything-goes feel
Best for: casual nights, live music and no dress codes
Fort Lauderdale - Upscale but relaxed
Often seen as a more laid-back alternative to Miami.
- Blue Martini - stylish lounge with live music and a more grown-up crowd
Best for: cocktails, smaller groups and a less intense scene
Good to know
- Drinking age is 21 - strictly enforced everywhere (ID required, even if you look older)
- Tipping is expected - $1–$2 per drink or 15–20% of your tab
- Start times are late in Miami - clubs often don’t get busy until midnight or later
- Dress codes apply - in higher-end venues (no flip-flops, sportswear or beachwear)
- Transport: Uber and Lyft are widely used, safer and easier than driving after a night out
Florida doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all nightlife scene and that’s exactly the appeal. You can go from a rooftop cocktail in Miami to live music in Key West to a full production show in Orlando, all in one trip.
What’s the food like in Florida?
While you’ll be able to get your hands on all of your favourite American classics during your Florida holidays, the state has plenty of local dishes to rival the mighty burger. Look out for these and tantalise those taste buds, we're sure they'll appreciate it:
- Key lime pie - a sweet, fresh lime tart with shortcrust pastry, topped with soft meringue
- Stone crab claws - sustainably sourced local crabs with deliciously succulent claw meat
- Orange juice - yes, it might sound basic, but this is Florida’s most iconic export - get it freshly squeezed for the ultimate OJ experience
- Miccosukee Fry Bread - a warm pumpkin bread created by the Native American Miccosukee tribe
- Conch Fritters - a local shellfish from the Keys, drenched in lemon juice and deep-fried
You’ll have your pick of amazing restaurants whichever city you visit, but we're here to sell you on Florida, and it really shouldn't take much. If you needed any more convincing though, here are a few of our favourite spots to chow down at:
- Benny’s on the Beach, Lake Worth - perched right on the pier, this spot serves up epic ocean views alongside its famous all-day breakfast and fresh seafood—perfect for a sunny slice of Florida life.
- The Melting Pot, Orlando - dip into something different with this interactive dining experience—we’re talking bubbling cheese, savoury broths and a chocolate fondue finale that is straight-up gorge.
- Dancing Avocado, Daytona Beach - a quirky gem in downtown Daytona offering a healthy twist on your holiday binge—think fresh juices, veggie delights and a vibe that is totally chilled.
- Versailles, Miami - the undisputed king of Cuban cuisine—step into this mirrored palace for a caffeine kick from their café con leche and a sandwich that is legally required eating.
- Columbia Restaurant, Tampa - the oldest restaurant in Florida, serving up Spanish feasts and flamenco shows that are absolute culture goals.
- Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, Orlando - proper Southern comfort food at Disney Springs—think fried chicken and moonshine that hits the spot 10/10.
- Joe’s Stone Crab, Miami Beach - a boujee bucket-list spot famous for its fresh claws and key lime pie—get there early!

Places to visit

St Augustine
Fancy stepping back in time on your Florida holidays? St. Augustine isn't just a town; it's a time machine. It's the oldest European settlement in the U.S. that's still popping off today, and it's brimming with history, from the cobblestone streets to the Castillo de San Marcos. It's like a history lesson, but one where you can sip on sangria and munch on some delish seafood as you wander. And for the ghost hunters among you, the ghost tours here are proper good – spooky vibes guaranteed!
Bok Tower Gardens
Nestled in Lake Wales, this enchanting garden and bird sanctuary is home to the majestic Singing Tower, a 205-foot tall Gothic and Art Deco carillon tower that serenades visitors with music. It's not just the tunes that will captivate you; the gardens themselves are a lush paradise, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. The vibes here? Utterly serene. It's like stepping into a fairytale, complete with whimsical landscapes and a soundtrack provided by Mother Nature herself. Bok Tower Gardens is a must-visit on your holidays to Florida for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in natural beauty and tranquillity.
Weeki Wachee Springs
Ever dreamed of mermaids? Well, dream no more because at Weeki Wachee Springs, mermaids are real! This legendary spring boasts an underwater theatre where you can watch mermaids perform in crystal-clear waters, a spectacle that's as unique as it is enchanting. But that's not all; Weeki Wachee is also a natural paradise where you can kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax by the water's edge. It's a slice of old-school Florida charm that continues to delight visitors of all ages, making it a proper good pick for a day out with the kiddos or a nostalgic trip down memory lane on your Florida holidays.

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

The Govt. of Florida charges a sustainable tourism tax on all overnight stays in the state. The tax is usually 6% of the room rate per room. There are also taxes on purchases ranging from 6.5-7% on all goods except ‘necessary’ items such as certain foods and medicine.

British passport holders will need to apply for an ESTA before travelling to Florida, which should allow you to stay in the United States of America for up to 90 days.

Florida Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Holidays to Florida 2026 Highlights

Good To Know

🗣️ Local Lingo – Talk Like a Floridian

🏨 Where’s the Best Place to Stay in Florida?

What are the best beaches to head to on your Florida holidays?

🏨 What are the top hotels for your holidays to Florida?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families

💑 Best for Couples

✨ Luxury Picks

💰 Budget-Friendly

Florida holidays 2026 travel guide

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to Do for Families in Florida

💑 Things to Do for Couples in Florida

🎉 Things to Do for Groups in Florida

🍽️ Things to Do for Foodies in Florida

Other places to visit on your Florida holidays:

Popular Florida hotels

Stunning Florida resorts

Weather in Florida

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

View destination on a map

FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Florida?

What’s the time difference between the UK and Florida?

What currency do they use in Florida?

What language do they speak in Florida?

Why is Florida good for a holiday?

What makes Florida stand out:

Do I need to hire a car in Florida?

What is the deal with tipping in Florida?

Typical tipping guidelines:

What's the best time to visit Florida?

Is Florida good for a holiday with kids?

How much spending money do I need for Florida?

What events can I go to in Florida?

What events and festivals happen in Florida?

Good to know

Where's the best nightlife in Florida?

Miami - Late nights and big-name clubs

Orlando - Entertainment over all-night partying

Tampa (Ybor City) - Proper party district

Key West - Laid-back and iconic

Fort Lauderdale - Upscale but relaxed

Good to know

What’s the food like in Florida?

Places to visit

St Augustine

Bok Tower Gardens

Weeki Wachee Springs

Key facts about Florida

Flight Time

9 hrs

Time difference

- 5 hours

Currency

US Dollar

Language

English

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Florida?

Do I need to pay tourist tax on my holiday to Florida?

Do I need a visa to travel to Florida?