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The Absolute Best Florida Trips We Took In 2019

Islamorada stole our heart, and Coconut Grove was a blast. We don’t mean to brag, but we took some amazing vacations this year. Here, our five favorites. 

Everything Cool You Have to Do in Miami This Winter


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Photo courtesy of Villa Vizcaya

1. Coconut Grove

We know, we know: Coconut Grove is practically in our backyard, so you may be wondering why you’d bother to spend a few nights here. But it feels like a whole other world compared to Greater Miami (plus, no chance of pesky travel delays). As Miami’s oldest neighborhood, Coconut Grove offers no shortage of things to do, from roaming Italian-inspired gardens to drinking sauvignon blanc frosé to indulging in honey-infused spa treatments. Yep, this plot of bohemian land has it all. 

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Typhonski / Getty Images

2. Naples

It may be just two hours from Miami, but the upscale resort town on the Gulf of Mexico feels like another world entirely. From serene beaches to top-notch dining to some of the most gorgeous sunsets we’ve ever seen, Naples has everything you need for the ultimate weekend getaway. If you go, make it a point to visit the Naples Pier, which offers striking views of the ocean, and pop into Jane’s Garden Café on 3rd for a mimosa, gluten-free avocado toast and a stack of sweet pancakes.

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Education Images / UIG via Getty Images

3. St. Pete

St. Pete is Florida’s most underrated gem. It’s got all the fixings for an epic escape from Miami (think gorgeous beaches, cooler weather, stellar restaurants and top-notch art museums). Plus, downtown St. Petersburg is less than ten miles from St. Pete Beach. But because there’s virtually no traffic in the area, the drive is just under 15 minutes. That means you get to experience the excitement of downtown but squeeze in a few hours a day on the sand too.

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Photo courtesy of Robbie's of Islamorada

4. Islamorada

Looking for a quick getaway that unites your love of the Florida Keys with beachy cocktails, seaside excursions and tropical eats? Just under two hours from Miami, the four islands of Islamorada are known for having an upscale, small-town vibe with museums, seafood restaurants, boating and lots of sunshine. 

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Jeff Greenberg / UIG via Getty Images

5. A Caribbean Cruise

In most cities, people dream of being within acceptable driving distance of the ocean. Here in Miami, we’re lucky enough to have the water as our neighbor—which is why getting to and from a cruise seriously can’t get any easier. No wonder Miami’s considered the cruise capital of the world. If you ask us, it’s well deserved. Sail to the most stunning destinations, all while dining on celebrity chef eats, stargazing on pool decks and indulging in spa treatments. Yep, these cruises aren’t the ones your grandparents went on.



clarissa buch

Miami Editor

Clarissa Buch Zilberman is a writer and editor based in Miami. Focused on food, lifestyle, and travel, her work has appeared in Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, Bon Appétit, and...