Florida, the Sunshine State, has been a destination for visitors since the founding of the Fountain of Youth in St. Petersburg. From Jacksonville south to the Florida Keys, and back up north to Fort Walton, Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States on its Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts.

Some visitors prefer the natural beauty of the beaches, Everglades, and Mangrove Swamp to the famous Florida theme and amusement parks. Sport fans can enjoy watching their favorite sports year-round, including professional baseball Spring Training, professional football in the fall, polo, or racing. Whether the race is between horses, cars, speedboats, dogs, or sailboats, the action is always fast.

Florida has interesting museums in many of its towns like Naples and Sarasota. Golfers and tennis buffs enjoy challenging courses and courts. Young visitors to Florida often take advantage of the many sports and cultural camps to hone skills while on vacation. Swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, sailing, surf fishing, charter fishing, and wind surfing are just some of the water sports that Florida visitors enjoy.

Miami is a major cruise ship departure point. Shopping and night life abound in South Beach and Key West where the action starts by viewing glorious sunsets. Although Palm Beach is famous for its wealthy culture, exclusive shopping, and mansions, Florida has something for everyone.

Travelers on a budget can visit the state parks like Manatee, which is north of Cedar Key, where they can camp, hike, swim, and enjoy observing the wildlife at the nearby refuges.

Because Florida is a melting pot, its restaurants are known for excellent fusion, ethnic, and regional cuisines. Major national and international airlines serve Florida with convenient schedules. I-75 and I-95 are the major north/south interstate highways that serve Florida. However, some visitors to Florida arrive via the Intercoastal Waterway which is also a wonderful way to take a relaxing, boating vacation.