The Ultimate Guide to Florida’s Gulf Coast
Dive into our comprehensive guide to discover top beaches, state parks, unique cultural hotspots, and the best campgrounds the coast has to offer.
Looking for the perfect blend of pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse natural attractions for your next RV road trip? Look no further than Florida's Gulf Coast. Dive into our comprehensive guide to discover top beaches, state parks, unique cultural hotspots, and the best campgrounds the coast has to offer.
Discover Florida's State Parks
With over 175 state parks, Florida is the first four-time winner of the National Recreation and Park Association Gold Medal, celebrating the nation’s best state park system. One of the largest systems in the country, Florida’s state parks feature diverse ecosystems, beautiful nature trails, and historic sites, spanning nearly 800,000 acres and 100 miles of idyllic shoreline. Here are some of our favorite Florida state parks.
Big Lagoon State Park
Home to over 200 unique bird species, Big Lagoon State Park is one of the greatest birdwatching locations in the state. This beautiful natural area also serves as one of two gateways to the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail — a 1,515-mile trail circumnavigating the entire state of Florida, making this park a popular destination for kayakers and paddleboarders.
Myakka River State Park
As one of Florida’s largest parks, Myakka River spans an astounding 37,000 acres, offering plenty to explore. The vast area features a wide variety of landscapes and natural habitats, including dry prairies, wetlands, and pinelands, attracting a diverse population of plants and animals.
Lovers Key State Park
Just outside Fort Myers, Lovers Key is famous for its pristine, sugar-sand beaches and its serene atmosphere. Aside from the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, Lovers Key has also become a popular wedding destination.
Grayton Beach State Park
Home to three coastal dune lakes, Grayton Beach provides a glimpse into a rare and intriguing ecosystem full of dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, and many more unique Gulf Coast species.
Caladesi Island State Park
This secluded park is only accessible by boat, making it far less busy and crowded than the rest. But trust us, the trip is worth it. Caladesi Island is home to a variety of natural habitats like dunes, mangrove forests, and maritime hammocks, attracting a wide variety of plants and animals, including several endangered and protected species.
Bonus tip: Hop over to Honeymoon Island State Park right next door for a romantic getaway with that special someone!
Wildlife Encounters
The Gulf Coast features some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world and provides boundless opportunities for unforgettable wildlife encounters. From observing manatees in crystal clear waters to swimming with dolphins in the gulf and spying gators in the Everglades, Florida’s wildlife never disappoints.
Manatees in Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for the majestic manatee, one of Florida's most beloved marine mammals. By booking a tour with one of the numerous local companies in Crystal River, you can immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Float peacefully alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat, gaining a deeper appreciation for their grace and vulnerability.
Alligators in the Everglades
For a bit of a thrill, book an airboat tour through Everglades National Park, where the ancient reptiles rule. Witness the alligator in its untamed, natural habitat. And for a completely immersive gator experience, book an eco-tour or interactive show with the Everglades Alligator Farm for a chance to feed over 250 alligators and hold a 3-foot baby gator!
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Home to alligators, hippos, black bears, red wolves, key deer, flamingos, whooping cranes, and many more stunning species, this park provides the rare opportunity to observe an eclectic group of animals that don’t typically cohabitate in the wild. Book a guided tour through the park and learn all about these protected species!
Aquatic Adventures
Bordering the Gulf of Mexico and brimming with rivers, lakes, and bays, Florida’s west coast is the place to be for water sports and aquatic adventures. So, break out the kayaks and snorkel gear and check out some of our top picks:
Kayak or Paddleboard the Mangrove Tunnels in Sarasota
Paddle your way into a fairytale as you make your way through the enchanting mangrove tunnels of Sarasota. Grab a kayak or paddleboard rental and dive into the lush, forested waterways just outside town!
Snorkel in Clearwater Beach
Aptly named, the Clearwater area provides world-class crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. Snorkel right from the beach, or book a boat tour to take you out to deeper waters and spy an abundance of tropical fish like tarpon, giant groupers, and even sea horses and octopi. You can also explore the underwater ruins of a sunken fort from the Spanish-American War era. And when you’ve had enough of the water, head on in to shore for some genuine Florida small-town charm.
Book a Fishing Charter
The Florida Gulf Coast is an international hub for deep-sea fishing and the perfect place to reel in some truly impressive catches. Brimming with grouper, snapper, kingfish, and more exotic fish species, the Florida Gulf is any angler’s paradise!
Take a Boat Tour in Naples
If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your adventure, book a boat tour around the waters of Naples. Most of these tours explore Naples Bay, stopping at popular destinations like Port Royal and the mangrove forests, and often venture further into the Gulf of Mexico. And the best part is the massive selection of options — book anything from a private sailboat to a full-blown luxury yacht experience. So, get your sea legs ready to explore one of Southwest Florida’s most scenic areas in any style that suits you.
Coastal Beauty and Beach Escapes
The Gulf Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. From the serenity of Tigertail Beach to the party at Fort Myers, there’s a little something for everyone.
Siesta Beach
Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the USA, Siesta Key Public Beach has it all: sugar-soft white sand, crystalline water, and plenty of space to relax and explore. With over 8 miles of pristine shoreline and some of the greatest sunset views in the world, Siesta Key is your one-stop Gulf Coast beach experience!
Bonus Tip: Check out Lido Key just North of Siesta Key for even more pristine white sand beaches and the wonderfully charming and strikingly circular neighborhood of St. Armands!
Fort Myers Beach
If you’re feeling social, Fort Myers Beach is the place to be. Bordered by charming shops and restaurants on one side and idyllic green waters on the other, Fort Myers is the ultimate Florida beach destination, exuding good vibes and offering endless opportunities for water sports like parasailing, kayaking, and snorkeling!
Sanibel Island Beach
Dubbed the “Shelling Capital of the World,” this immaculate barrier island offers over 15 miles of pristine shoreline loaded with tropical shells washed in from the gulf. And the eastern tip of the island boasts a beautiful historic lighthouse, completing the serene coastal atmosphere.
Venice Beach
Another lively hub, Venice Beach is characterized by a bustling boardwalk, volleyball courts, and some of the cleanest conditions of any beach in the country. And if you keep your eyes peeled, you might even score a fossilized shark tooth or two, as Venice is famously known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World.”
Tigertail Beach
One of Florida’s most robust beaches, Tigertail Beach covers over 30 acres of the magical San Marco Island, offering plenty of space to carve out your own little camp. And while the lack of crowds sounds enticing, it pales in comparison to the beach’s biggest draw — its wildlife! Rent a kayak and paddle out to observe dolphins, manatees, and exotic seabirds in their natural habitat.
Cultural Experiences and Entertainment
While the Gulf Coast is famous for its beautiful white-sand beaches and ecological diversity, there is no shortage of entertainment options. From historic museums and estates to lively boardwalks, check out our top picks of fun things to do on Florida’s “best coast!”
The Ringling in Sarasota
For a bit of whimsy and history in your Gulf Coast adventure, pay a visit to Florida’s official art museum— The Ringling! Left to the people of Florida by the iconic John Ringling, this incredible destination features over 10,000 works of art from European Renaissance pieces to Cypriot works and contemporary masterpieces from around the world.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers
People have been traveling down south to escape the cold for ages, and genius inventors are no exception. Check out the famous winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford during your stay in Fort Myers. These famous friends built their estates on adjoining properties along the Caloosahatchee River in 1885. Today, the lot features a 15,000 square ft. museum showcasing the innovative lives of these two icons alongside a 20-acre botanical garden.
Nightlife in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is one of the major cultural hubs of the Sunshine State, and it's certainly worth a day trip, but the city really comes to life when the sun goes down. If you’re looking for a night out on the town, St. Pete is a great pit stop with a lively downtown full of bars, live music, restaurants, and shops.
Tarpon Springs
Explore this charming town just outside Tampa and St. Petersburg! Famous for producing some of the world’s finest sponges, Tarpon Springs was settled by Greek sponge divers back in the early 1900’s. Today, the town stands as a hub for Greek heritage and culture in Florida. Dive into the classic Greek culture with authentic dining, historic cathedrals, and the original sponge docks.
Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay
Landscaped to emulate African and Asian cultures, this world-famous animal theme park is the perfect destination for a day of family fun!
Pier 60 Boardwalk
If you ever tire of lounging on the Gulf Coast beaches, Pier 60 is ready to provide you with a bit of excitement. This bustling boardwalk hosts a nightly sunset festival showcasing local artisans, musicians, fire breathers, dancers, and more.
Gulf Coast RV Campground Recommendations
From Pensacola to the Everglades, check out our top picks for RV resorts and campgrounds on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Vacay Village of Pensacola
Escape to the family-friendly oasis of Vacay Village of Pensacola — a lively, pet-friendly, 15-acre gated community just a short drive from Pensacola Beach and the airport. Surrounded by nature yet equipped with top-tier resort amenities, this RV hotspot offers a peaceful retreat and serves as a gateway to exploring the rich historical sites, outdoor adventures, and stunning beaches that the Pensacola area has to offer.
Chokoloskee Island Resort
Chokoloskee Island Resort, nestled in the heart of the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands area, welcomes nature enthusiasts and anglers alike. Offering marina facilities, rental cottages, and beachfront access to the pristine beauty of Chokoloskee Island Park, it's the perfect destination if you’re after a peaceful island getaway with plenty of outdoor activities at your doorstep.
Fisherman’s Cove RV Resort
Escape to a tropical oasis at Fisherman’s Cove RV Resort in Palmetto, Florida, conveniently located right on Terra Ceia Bay. Enjoy an upscale resort with a wealth of amenities, easy access to nearby cities, and unparalleled access to natural beauty and outdoor adventure on the Florida Gulf Coast!
Suncoast RV Park
Suncoast RV Park in Port Richey, FL, is a year-round haven offering a wide range of amenities and activities for guests of all ages, including pools, clubhouses, and organized events like Zumba classes, bingo, and potluck dinners. With full hookups and a welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect destination for a comfortable and fun-filled stay in the warm and sunny Florida environment.
Tropical Gardens RV Park
Tropical Gardens RV Park, located in Bradenton, FL, offers a peaceful oasis surrounded by stunning tropical scenery with a range of outdoor amenities, including a pool and recreation areas. And the indoor facilities including events like bingo, give you the opportunity to connect with the community and make some new friends! Open year-round, this getaway is the perfect place to soak up everything the Gulf Coast has to offer.
Ready to put pen to paper and start planning your Gulf Coast road trip? Let us help make the process a breeze with our interactive, user-friendly booking platform! Browse top-tier RV parks and campgrounds all over America, and only see sites that are available for your selected dates!
