5 amazing day trips from Miami

While Miami is known for its top attractions in Florida, it's also an excellent starting point to discover other gems of the Sunshine State.

Perhaps a quaint town and some distinctive experiences will pique your interest. Or maybe you need a break from the lively atmosphere of Miami's busy streets (especially during spring break) and want to enjoy some open spaces.

You might encounter the occasional alligator wandering near a canal or have a muscovy duck approach you at the local park, but there are far more remarkable wildlife experiences waiting beyond the borders of Miami. Whatever you seek from a day trip in Magic City, we have the perfect options for you.

1. Encounter sea turtles in Juno Beach and Jupiter

Travel duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes

For an exceptional family day trip from Miami, head north to Juno Beach and check out the Loggerhead Marine Life Center, which focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of local sea turtles. It's a fantastic spot to observe these beautiful creatures up close.

For more charming animal experiences, Jupiter's Loxahatchee River Center offers interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and live aquatic displays where visitors can explore and learn about local marine life. Don’t miss Blowing Rocks Preserve, where you can witness the largest Anastasia limestone shoreline on the Atlantic, shooting saltwater up to 50 feet into the air.

For family-friendly dining, consider stopping by Juno Beach Cafe or Jetty's Waterfront Restaurant (which boasts an incredible view of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse), and make sure to visit Jupiter Donut Factory for a delicious treat.

Getting to Juno Beach and Jupiter from Miami: You can take the TriRail from Miami to West Palm Beach and then finish the trip with a Lyft or taxi. However, the easiest option is to drive (whether in your own car or a rental).

2. Discover coral reefs in three different ways in Key Largo

Travel duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, 3 hours via public transport

Key Largo is home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, a predominantly underwater park featuring stunning coral reefs that can be explored in various ways. You can check out the underwater camera that live-streams to the nature center (and online), or book tickets for their famous glass-bottom boat tours. Be mindful that these tours tend to sell out quickly, but other providers offering similar glass-bottom boat experiences are available near the park.

For those wanting a closer look at the reefs, snorkeling or scuba diving in the park is a great option. You could easily spend an entire day in Key Largo, and when you're ready to eat, consider a seafood meal at a waterfront venue like Sundowners or Snooks, or opt for a hidden gem like the quirky Mrs. Mac's.

Getting to Key Largo from Miami: If you’re near the Metrorail, you can ride it to Dadeland, then catch the Route 38 bus further south and transfer to the 301, which will take you to Key Largo. For a quicker option, shuttle buses like Greyhound and Flixbus can get you there slightly faster. Driving yourself is the fastest choice for those pressed for time.

Explore more fantastic snorkeling spots in Key Largo with this guide

3. Enjoy an all-day date in Fort Lauderdale

Travel duration: 45 minutes

Just a short drive north from Miami, Fort Lauderdale offers the ideal setting for a quick romantic escape.

Begin with a leisurely walk through the beautiful grounds of the Bonnet House, a peaceful retreat featuring a butterfly garden. Next, share intimate moments on the Las Olas Gondola before indulging in a romantic dinner at Burlock Coast or The Katherine.

Finally, pick your adventure: thrilling activities at Xtreme Action Park (including go-karts, laser tag, and escape rooms), live shows at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts (featuring musicals, plays, and ballets), or some excitement at Seminole Hard Rock Casino with its mix of gambling, comedy, and music.

Getting to Fort Lauderdale from Miami: As with many places in Florida, having your own vehicle provides the greatest flexibility. Alternatively, you can travel to Fort Lauderdale by purchasing a ticket on the Tri-Rail or Brightline train, and then use a car-sharing service to navigate the area.

4. Escape to the Everglades for a unique experience

Travel duration: 60 to 90 minutes

This vast national park stretches well beyond the boundaries of Miami-Dade County, and to truly experience it, you’ll need at least a full day. Begin at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center to gather insights about the park, then take a stroll along some nearby paved trails (don’t forget to grab a milkshake from Robert Is Here or a bite at Everglades Gator Grill during your visit).

The Shark Valley Visitor Center is another great starting point – you can relax on a tram tour, rent bikes to explore the area, or even take an airboat ride (consider Miccosukee Airboats).

At either center, you'll have ample chances to spot alligators, anhingas, turtles, and more. For a deeper experience, head south to Flamingo, where you can find hiking trails, kayaking, boating, camping, and even on-site dining and lodging at Flamingo Lodge and Restaurant if you wish.

Traveling to Everglades National Park from Miami: Unfortunately, there are no public transit options connecting Miami to any of the Everglades visitor centers. Depending on traffic, it’s just over an hour’s drive west from Miami.

5. Discover a Bahamian island by golf cart in Bimini

Travel duration: 2 hours and 40 minutes

Whether you're a long-time resident of South Florida or just passing through, you might be wondering, 'Can I take a day trip to the Bahamas from Miami?' The answer is yes! This journey takes a bit longer than the other day trips, as it requires a quick trip north to Fort Lauderdale before hopping on a ferry to Bimini.

Once you arrive, you can rent a golf cart to make the most of your day on the island. Snorkel around the wreck of the Sapona (a concrete ship constructed during WWI), enjoy conch at Joe's Conch Shack or grab a slice at Edith's Pizza, take photos of the artwork at the Dolphin House Museum, and soak up the sun at Radio Beach.

Additionally, you can purchase a day pass at Resorts World Bimini to access their casino and other amenities (just a heads-up, this might tempt you to extend your stay for another day or two).

Getting to Bimini from Miami: If you have your own boat (or know someone with one), sailing to Bimini is an option. Otherwise, take the Brightline train to Fort Lauderdale, which takes about 40 minutes, and then board the Balearia ferry service for a quick and easy trip to the island (remember to pack your passport).

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