Southeast Florida, Florida Travel Guide
Discover the vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and rich cultural diversity of Southeast Florida, from Miami's lively streets to the tranquil waters of Fort Lauderdale.
Southeast Florida is a vibrant region known for its stunning beaches, bustling cities, and rich cultural diversity. The area spans from Miami to West Palm Beach and is a prime destination for tourists seeking sunshine, adventure, and relaxation. Miami, the heart of Southeast Florida, offers an eclectic mix of art, culture, and nightlife. Visit the famous Art Deco District in South Beach, stroll through the colorful streets of Little Havana, or enjoy the trendy shops and restaurants in Wynwood. Miami's beaches are renowned for their clear waters and soft sands, making them perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Further north, Fort Lauderdale is known as the 'Venice of America' due to its extensive canal system. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere with elegant waterfront dining, luxury shopping, and beautiful marinas. Don't miss a cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway to see the impressive yachts and mansions. West Palm Beach provides a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Explore the Norton Museum of Art, take a stroll through the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, or relax at the pristine beaches. The nearby Palm Beach Island is famous for its opulent estates and upscale shopping on Worth Avenue. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Everglades National Park, a vast wetland teeming with wildlife. Take an airboat ride to see alligators, birds, and other native species up close. The park offers a unique glimpse into Florida's natural ecosystem and is a must-visit for those looking to experience the great outdoors.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Southeast Florida.
- Visit during the winter months (December to April) for the best weather and to avoid hurricane season.
- Make use of public transportation like the Tri-Rail to travel between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.
- Explore local cuisine by trying fresh seafood and Cuban dishes at neighborhood restaurants.
- Pack sunscreen and light clothing, as the sun can be intense even in winter.
- Check out local festivals and events, such as Art Basel in Miami or the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
Top City Travel Guides in Southeast Florida
The cities of Southeast Florida, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Destinations in Southeast Florida
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Southeast Florida: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Southeast Florida
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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All Attractions
Epcot
Discover the wonders of technology and global culture at Epcot, a premier theme park in Bay Lake, Florida, perfect for tourists seeking adventure.
Universal Studios Florida
Discover the thrills and magic of Universal Studios Florida, where movies come to life and unforgettable adventures await for all ages.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Discover the enchanting world of Disney's Hollywood Studios, where your favorite movies come to life through thrilling rides and unforgettable experiences.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Experience the magic of nature at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, where thrilling rides meet incredible wildlife encounters in a stunning setting.
Best landmarks in Southeast Florida
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
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All Landmarks
Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.
Explore the Southernmost Point of the continental U.S.A. in Key West, a vibrant landmark offering stunning ocean views and rich historical significance.
The Hemingway Home and Museum
Discover the legacy of Ernest Hemingway at The Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, a historic site filled with literary charm and stunning gardens.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Immerse yourself in history and nature at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, where stunning beaches and rich heritage await.
Bok Tower Gardens
Explore the enchanting Bok Tower Gardens, a historical gem in Florida boasting stunning landscapes, a majestic carillon, and rich natural beauty.
Best restaurants in Southeast Florida
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
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All Restaurants
STK Steakhouse
Experience fine dining at its best with exquisite steaks and vibrant nightlife at STK Steakhouse in Orlando.
Shooters Waterfront
Discover Shooter's Waterfront: where exquisite American cuisine meets stunning waterfront views in Fort Lauderdale.
The Boathouse
Savor exquisite seafood and American dishes at The Boathouse while enjoying stunning lakeside views in Lake Buena Vista.
Blue Heaven
Discover Blue Heaven: Where American and Caribbean flavors unite in a vibrant atmosphere amidst Key West's enchanting landscape.
Best bars in Southeast Florida
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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All Bars
Tin Roof
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Tin Roof, where live music meets delicious food and drinks in the heart of Orlando's nightlife.
Rosa Sky
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Miami at Rosa Sky, a chic rooftop bar offering exquisite cocktails, tapas, and breathtaking skyline views.
Elbo Room
Discover Elbo Room: A Fort Lauderdale beach bar offering live music, refreshing drinks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for relaxation and fun.
Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company
Explore Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company, where innovative cocktails meet the vibrant atmosphere of Miami Beach's nightlife scene.
Best nightclubs in Southeast Florida
Top-rated picks
Best Nightclubs
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All Nightclubs
Club Prana
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Club Prana, Tampa's top destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable events in Ybor City.
Club Euro Night Club
Discover the nightlife at Club Euro Night Club, where vibrant music and energy create an unforgettable experience in Fort Lauderdale.
Round Up Night Club & Restaurant
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Davie, FL, at Round Up Night Club & Restaurant, where great food meets electrifying entertainment.
Aqua Bar and Nightclub
Discover the lively atmosphere of Aqua Bar and Nightclub in Key West, where unforgettable nights of music, dance, and fun await you.
Best shops in Southeast Florida
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
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All Shops
Sawgrass Mills
Experience the ultimate shopping destination at Sawgrass Mills, Florida's largest outlet mall with over 350 stores and diverse dining options.
The Shops at Pembroke Gardens
Discover a vibrant shopping paradise at The Shops at Pembroke Gardens with diverse stores, delightful dining, and a picturesque outdoor setting.
Bal Harbour Shops
Discover luxury shopping like never before at Bal Harbour Shops in Florida, featuring premier boutiques, fine dining, and a serene atmosphere.
World of Disney®
Explore World of Disney® in Disney Springs for exclusive merchandise, magical souvenirs, and a shopping experience like no other.
Explore Southeast Florida on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Southeast Florida, mapped for you.
Southeast Florida Essentials
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Southeast Florida is well-served by three major international airports: Miami International Airport (MIA), Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI). These airports host numerous flights from major cities worldwide. For domestic travelers, several airlines offer frequent flights to these airports. Alternatively, Amtrak provides train services, with stations in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. If you prefer driving, Interstate 95 runs through Southeast Florida, making it accessible by car.
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Southeast Florida has a variety of transportation options. Rental cars are popular due to the convenience and flexibility they offer. Public transportation includes buses and trains operated by Miami-Dade Transit, Broward County Transit, and Palm Tran. The Tri-Rail system connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Biking is also an option, with many cities offering bike-sharing programs. For a scenic experience, consider taking the water taxis operating in Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
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The currency used in Southeast Florida is the United States Dollar (USD). Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in urban areas. It's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit more remote areas. Tipping is customary in the United States, with 15-20% being standard for good service in restaurants, taxis, and other service industries.
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Southeast Florida is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take common-sense precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Some neighborhoods in Miami, such as parts of Liberty City and Overtown, have higher crime rates and are best avoided, especially after dark. Always use reputable transportation services and avoid displaying expensive items openly. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Hospitals and medical facilities are plentiful throughout Southeast Florida, with major hospitals in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are widely available. In the event of a natural disaster such as a hurricane, follow local authorities' instructions and seek shelter immediately.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for warm climates, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Don't wear beachwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect diverse religious practices and places of worship. Don't interrupt services or take photos without permission. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer seats to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transit. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A firm handshake is standard in formal situations. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and seafood specialties. Don't forget to tip your server, as it's a significant part of their income.
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To experience Southeast Florida like a local, visit the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana and Wynwood in Miami for their rich cultural experiences. Explore local farmers' markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Don't miss the Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach. Take advantage of the beautiful beaches, but also explore the lesser-known parks and natural areas like the Everglades. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insider tips about their favorite spots.
When is the best time to visit Southeast Florida?
Useful Local Phrases for Southeast Florida
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Southeast Florida. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHey
[Hey] - GoodbyeSee ya
[See ya] - YesYeah
[Yeah] - NoNah
[Nah] - Please/You're welcomeNo problem
[No problem] - Thank youThanks
[Thanks] - Excuse me/SorrySorry
[Sorry] - How are you?How's it going?
[How's it going?] - Fine. And you?Good. You?
[Good. You?] - Do you speak English?You speak English?
[You speak English?] - I don't understandI don't get it
[I don't get it]
- HelloHey
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
[Can I see the menu?] - I don't eat meatI’m a vegetarian
[I’m a vegetarian] - Cheers!Cheers!
[Cheers!] - I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
[Can I get the check?]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
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- Help!Help!
[Help!] - Go away!Leave me alone!
[Leave me alone!] - Call the Police!Call 911!
[Call 911!] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[Get a doctor!] - I'm lostI’m lost
[I’m lost] - I'm illI’m not feeling well
[I’m not feeling well]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
[I wanna buy...] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[Just browsing] - How much is it?What's the price?
[What's the price?] - That's too expensiveThat's way too pricey
[That's way too pricey] - Can you lower the price?Can you give me a better price?
[Can you give me a better price?]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
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- What time is it?What time is it?
[What time is it?] - It's one o'clockIt's one
[It's one] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[Half past ten] - MorningMorning
[Morning] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Afternoon] - EveningEvening
[Evening] - YesterdayYesterday
[Yesterday] - TodayToday
[Today] - TomorrowTomorrow
[Tomorrow] - 1One
[One] - 2Two
[Two] - 3Three
[Three] - 4Four
[Four] - 5Five
[Five] - 6Six
[Six] - 7Seven
[Seven] - 8Eight
[Eight] - 9Nine
[Nine] - 10Ten
[Ten]
- What time is it?What time is it?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
[Where's the...?] - What's the address?What's the address?
[What's the address?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me on the map?
[Can you show me on the map?] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
[When's the next bus?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket to ...
[A ticket to ...]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
Neighbouring Regions of Southeast Florida
The closest regions to Southeast Florida, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Florida
Looking beyond Southeast Florida? Discover Florida for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore FloridaSoutheast Florida in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
Southeast Florida: The Sunshine State's Coastal Paradise
Southeast Florida is a vibrant region known for its stunning beaches, bustling cities, and rich cultural diversity. The area spans from Miami to West Palm Beach and is a prime destination for tourists seeking sunshine, adventure, and relaxation. Miami, the heart of Southeast Florida, offers an eclectic mix of art, culture, and nightlife. Visit the famous Art Deco District in South Beach, stroll through the colorful streets of Little Havana, or enjoy the trendy shops and restaurants in Wynwood. Miami's beaches are renowned for their clear waters and soft sands, making them perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Further north, Fort Lauderdale is known as the 'Venice of America' due to its extensive canal system. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere with elegant waterfront dining, luxury shopping, and beautiful marinas. Don't miss a cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway to see the impressive yachts and mansions. West Palm Beach provides a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Explore the Norton Museum of Art, take a stroll through the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, or relax at the pristine beaches. The nearby Palm Beach Island is famous for its opulent estates and upscale shopping on Worth Avenue. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Everglades National Park, a vast wetland teeming with wildlife. Take an airboat ride to see alligators, birds, and other native species up close. The park offers a unique glimpse into Florida's natural ecosystem and is a must-visit for those looking to experience the great outdoors.