With some of the best beaches in the United States, exciting theme parks, and a thriving Latin cultural and culinary scene, Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in America. The Sunshine State’s charms are not limited to those attractions — the aquatic realm of the Everglades, ocean coastlines, and coral reefs encourage natural exploration. Water enthusiasts will love the Panhandle’s abundant coastline and marine attractions, including its 13,576 km of shoreline, 7,800 lakes, 320 natural springs, and 35 rivers. For outdoor enthusiasts, the adventure opportunities in Florida abound, from paddling through Everglades National Park to scuba diving along a coral reef in the Keys, fishing off a scenic pier, or jet-skiing on the coast. Whether you’re looking for the beach buzz of Miami, the chaotic joy of magical parks, or quiet escapes by the ocean, Florida can deliver memorable days and nights capped off with spectacular multihued sunsets.

Florida’s busy season runs from March to August, with peak visitation periods during U.S. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Spring Break (generally March and April). During those school holidays, Orlando’s theme parks and beaches on both the Gulf and Atlantic Ocean coasts teem with families — and, along the northern beaches, college students — as well as all summer long, when the state’s heat and humidity are at their height. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, February, September, and October are lovely shoulder months for visiting Florida, with drier, slightly cooler weather and a more relaxed vibe. November to April is the dry season, which is great for hiking and camping. Hurricane season stretches from early June to the end of November.

The Islands

While the Keys may be the most famous string of islands in Florida, the state is home to more than 4,500 outstanding self-contained pieces of heaven. Search for shells on Sanibel Island, stroll the 21 km of white sand beach on Amelia, snorkel the waters off Hutchinson Island in Martin County, or explore the barrier-island boardwalk of St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park.

Miami

This international city, which boasts strong Iberian, Caribbean, and South and Central American influences, has become a world-class destination thanks to its art, architecture, design, food, and nightlife scenes. Miami is a cultural hub planted in paradise: It’s surrounded by white sand beaches, tropical gardens, and verdant parks.

Everglades National Park

A World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and Wetland of International Importance, this vast subtropical wilderness is also known as the River of Grass. An airboat ride here is a quintessential Florida experience, but paddling a kayak or canoe, or strolling the boardwalk through stands of hardwood and mangrove swamps, will permit a more serene experience of this wetland’s unmatched beauty.