Miami is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, and bustling city life. However, beyond the city limits lies a treasure trove of natural beauty waiting to be explored. For those looking to escape the urban hustle and embrace the tranquility of nature, here are five dreamy day trips from Miami that showcase some of Florida's most enchanting destinations: Bahia Honda State Park, A Patch of Heaven Sanctuary, Lovers Key State Park, Fairchild Tropical Garden, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.
1. Swim Beautiful Blue Waters at Bahia Honda State Park
Location: 36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043
Distance from Miami: Approximately 130 miles (2.5 to 3 hours drive)
Bahia Honda State Park, located in the Florida Keys, is a slice of paradise that offers a unique blend of breathtaking beaches, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters. This state park is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in a natural setting.
Attractions and Activities
- Beaches: The park boasts some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys, including the sandy shores of Calusa Beach, Loggerhead Beach, and Sandspur Beach. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The clear waters surrounding Bahia Honda are teeming with marine life. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of tropical fish.
- Hiking: Bahia Honda offers several nature trails, including the Old Bahia Honda Bridge Trail, which provides stunning views of the island and the surrounding waters.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bird species like the white-crowned pigeon and the great white heron. Visitors may also spot iguanas and other native animals.
Tips for Visitors
- Hours: 8 am-Sunset
- Arrive Early: Bahia Honda State Park can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot on the beach and avoid the peak heat of the day.
- Admission: $8 per vehicle
- Pack a Picnic: The park has picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family picnic.
- Bring Snorkeling Gear: If you plan to snorkel, bring your own gear to save on rental costs and ensure a comfortable fit.
- Dog Friendly: In all Florida State Parks, dogs need to be on a 6-foot leash and are not allowed on the beach, but trails and walking paths are fine.
2. Explore a Peaceful Jungle Oasis at A Patch of Heaven Sanctuary
Location: 21900 SW 157th Ave, Miami, FL 33170
Distance from Miami: Approximately 30 miles (45-minute drive)
A Patch of Heaven Sanctuary is a hidden gem located just a short drive from Miami. This 20-acre private nature preserve offers a serene environment where visitors can connect with nature and experience the beauty of Florida's diverse ecosystems.
Attractions and Activities
- Butterfly Garden: The sanctuary features a beautifully landscaped butterfly garden, home to a variety of native butterfly species. This is a perfect spot for nature photography and relaxation.
- Guided Tours: The sanctuary offers guided tours that provide insights into the local flora and fauna, as well as the history and conservation efforts of the sanctuary.
- Yoga and Meditation: A Patch of Heaven Sanctuary hosts yoga and meditation sessions in a tranquil setting, allowing visitors to rejuvenate their mind and body.
- Event Space: The sanctuary is also available for private events, including weddings, retreats, and corporate gatherings, offering a unique and peaceful backdrop.
Estiven and I had a wonderful “date day,” strolling along the winding paths and exploring the property. We actually weren’t able to finish the entire garden due to its large size, so we’re planning a return trip to finish the areas we missed.
We’ve been spending a lot of time exploring the Redlands area, as it has a ton of unique outdoor activities and interesting restaurants. We finished our day at the newly opened Gateway Farms, an open-air-styled restaurant with South American ranching influence. Walk through the saloon doors, and hop on the mechanical bull for some fun you won’t find in Miami.
3. Have a Romantic Sunset Picnic at Lovers Key State Park
Lovers Key State Park, located near Fort Myers Beach, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park is known for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails, making it an ideal day trip destination from Miami. Of course, there is a reason behind the name: incredibly romantic sunsets (with plenty of privacy) that are a testament to Florida’s beauty. We packed a picnic basket and beach blankets and had a wonderful time celebrating my birthday as the sun quietly fell over the horizon.
Attractions and Activities
- Beachcombing: The park's beautiful beaches are perfect for beachcombing, where visitors can find shells, sand dollars, and other marine treasures.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Lovers Key offers excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing through mangrove-lined waterways, where you can observe manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species.
- Hiking and Biking: The park features several trails, including the Black Island Trail and the Eagle Trail, which offer scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
- Fishing: Anglers can try their luck fishing from the beach or from one of the park's designated fishing areas.
Tips for Visitors
- Hours: 8 am-Sunset
Admission: $8 per vehicle
Food: Pack lunch for a sunset picnic! - Rent Equipment: Kayaks, canoes, and bicycles are available for rent within the park, making it easy to explore the waterways and trails.
- Check the Weather: Florida's weather can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before your trip and be prepared for sudden changes.
4. Wander Around Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden
Location: 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables, FL 33156
Distance from Miami: Approximately 12 miles (30-minute drive)
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a lush, 83-acre paradise located in Coral Gables, just a short drive from Miami. This world-renowned garden is dedicated to the conservation and display of tropical plants, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. In fact, Fairchild founded the Million Orchid Project, the nation's largest educational outreach program dedicated to orchid conservation, with plans to reintroduce over a million orchids back to South Florida.
Attractions and Activities
- Themed Gardens: Explore a variety of themed gardens, including the Palm Glade, the Tropical Flowering Tree Arboretum, and the Butterfly Garden.
- Plant Collections: The garden is home to an extensive collection of rare and exotic plants from around the world, including palms, cycads, and orchids.
- Art Installations: Throughout the garden, you'll find stunning art installations and sculptures that add an artistic touch to the natural beauty.
- Educational Programs: Fairchild offers a range of educational programs, workshops, and guided tours that provide insights into tropical horticulture and conservation efforts.
Tips for Kids:
Head for the Wings of the Tropic exhibit to walk beside over 40 species of butterflies, or look into the separate Growing Beyond Earth classroom (just across the way) that partners with NASA in providing research and data for the growing plant and live food in space!
Insider Tip:
My favorite place in the entire garden is the hammocks on the left, just before the entrance. Bring a book, notepad, or drawing pad and let the day gently pass by under the shade of the palm trees. If you’re local and plan to come a few times out of the year, their annual membership is worth its weight in gold. Estiven and I have a dual membership, which paid itself off in the first month. In no way is this sponsored — I honestly just love it there!
Things to Know:
Hours: 10 am-5 pm
Admission: Adults $24.95, Seniors $17.95, Students (with ID) $15.95, Children (6-17) $11.95, Children (0-5) Free, OR FREE FOR MEMBERS.
Food: Food and alcohol are available for purchase.
5. Escape to the Serene Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park
Location: 11135 Gulfshore Drive, Naples, FL 34108
Distance from Miami: Approximately 120 miles (2 to 2.5 hours drive)
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, located near Naples, is a pristine coastal park known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and abundant wildlife. This park offers a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Miami. I’ll be honest, I’m one of those people who will go on a spontaneous road trip whenever I need to work something out in my mind. On quite a few occasions, my heart pulls me to Delnor Wiggins, and I throw my beach blanket in the car, and head for the open road.
Delnor Wiggins is one of my favorite beaches in Florida. It’s incredibly laidback, peaceful, and nobody will bother you (unlike South Beach in Miami, for example). You don’t have to worry about doing your hair after going for a swim — just crash back on your towel and crack open your book. White powdery sand lines the Gulf Coast, while soft aquamarine waters stare back at you.
Attractions and Activities
- Beach Activities: The park's mile-long beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and observing marine life.
- Boating and Fishing: The park provides access to the Cocohatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico, making it a great spot for boating and fishing. There are designated boat launch areas and fishing platforms.
- Wildlife Viewing: Delnor-Wiggins Pass is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for ospreys, egrets, and other bird species, as well as the occasional dolphin or manatee.
- Scenic Views: The observation tower at the park offers panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding areas, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Tips for Visitors
- Hours: 8 am-Sunset
Admission: $6 per vehicle - Arrive Early: Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot and maximizes your time at the park.
- Food: There’s a food concession stand at Area 4 with basic grilled lunches. Think hot dogs, hamburgers, peanuts, and candy. If you’re looking for something healthy or gourmet, bring your own.
- Bring Beach Gear: Pack your beach essentials, including towels, umbrellas, and snorkeling gear, to make the most of your day at the beach.
- Respect Wildlife: Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.
Conclusion
Embarking on a day trip from Miami to explore these five dreamy destinations offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. From the stunning beaches of Bahia Honda State Park and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park to the serene gardens of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and A Patch of Heaven Sanctuary, each location provides a unique experience that showcases the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Florida. Lovers Key State Park, with its opportunities for kayaking and hiking, adds another layer of outdoor fun to your travel itinerary.
These day trips epitomize the essence of slow travel, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the region while escaping the fast pace of city life. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventure-filled day, or simply a change of scenery, these destinations offer something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the enchanting beauty that lies just beyond Miami's city limits.
Have you been to any of these places, or have your own to recommend? Let me know in the comments below!
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One response to “5 Dreamy Day Trips from Miami: Exploring Florida’s Natural Wonders”
Rachel & Estevan took me to Fairchild gardens for a day. It is a beautiful relaxing place to spend the day. They were having classes on how to grow orchids the day we went. Rachel’s Grandmother.