7 day itinerary
Florida
Itinerary
Florida is a fantastic destination with so much to offer, and swimming with manatees is such a unique experience! Here’s a fun and exciting 7-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Orlando
Morning: Arrive in Orlando and check into your hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a quick breakfast at a local café.
Afternoon: Head to the iconic or for some theme park fun! If you’re not into theme parks, consider visiting for a leisurely stroll and some swan boat rides.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at or . Both have a variety of dining options and a lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Orlando to
Morning: After breakfast, hit the road to (about 1.5 hours). This charming town is known for its manatee population.
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and grab lunch. Then, head to for a chance to see manatees in their natural habitat. If you’re ready to swim, book a guided tour with a reputable company that offers manatee swims.
Evening: After your swim, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local seafood restaurant. is a great choice with a lovely view of the water.
Day 3: Swim with Manatees
Morning: Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Join your manatee swim tour early in the morning. Make sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture the magic!
Afternoon: After your swim, have lunch at a nearby café. Spend the afternoon exploring the or take a kayak tour through the mangroves.
Evening: Wind down with a sunset cruise on the . It’s a perfect way to relax after an exciting day!
Day 4: to Tampa
Morning: Enjoy breakfast in , then head to to see more wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and native Florida birds.
Afternoon: Drive to Tampa (about 1 hour). Once you arrive, check into your hotel and grab lunch. Afterward, visit the or take a stroll along the .
Evening: Dinner in the district is a must! This historic neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious Cuban cuisine.
Day 5: Tampa to Sarasota
Morning: After breakfast, head to Sarasota (about 1 hour). Visit the to soak in some culture and history.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at , known for its powdery white sand. It’s a perfect spot to relax and swim in the Gulf of Mexico.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, like , where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset.
Day 6: Sarasota to
Morning: Depart Sarasota and drive to the (about 2.5 hours). Stop for breakfast along the way.
Afternoon: Once you arrive, take an airboat tour to explore the unique ecosystem and spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
Evening: Check into a lodge or hotel near the . Enjoy a rustic dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying some alligator bites for a true Florida experience!
Day 7: to Miami
Morning: After breakfast, take a morning hike or a guided nature walk in the to soak in the beauty of the wetlands.
Afternoon: Drive to Miami (about 1.5 hours). Once you arrive, explore for lunch and immerse yourself in the vibrant Cuban culture.
Evening: Spend your last evening in . Relax on the beach, stroll along Ocean Drive, and enjoy a farewell dinner at a trendy restaurant.
Bonus Tips:
- Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, especially for swimming and outdoor activities.
- Book your manatee swim tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly!
- Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for those sunny Florida days!
I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing week in Florida! Enjoy every moment, especially those magical encounters with the manatees! 🐋🌴