Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

5 Popular State And National Parks That Are Less Than 2 Hours Outside Miami, Florida

staff@islands.com (Jenna Busch) — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Many consider Miami to be a metropolitan destination, and it is. But if you know where to look, the city has great access to some incredible natural places.

What The Most Popular Amusement Parks Have In Common (And What They Don't)

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:45:00 +0000

From dining to rides and parking, get help deciding between Disney and Universal Studios with this handy guide to the parks' differences and commonalities.

The 6 Cleanest Lakes In Florida With Pristine, Crystal-Clear Waters

staff@islands.com (Kirtana Menon) — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:45:00 +0000

You probably know that the Florida coast is filled with beautiful beaches and clear ocean water, but don't miss out on the stunning lakes either.

Outside Orlando Is Florida's Once-Thriving Ranch That's Now A Wildlife Site With Trails And Primitive Camping

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:45:00 +0000

Looking for outdoor adventures near Orlando? This sprawling Florida preserve offers wildlife viewing, scenic trails, river access, and primitive campsites.

Florida's Underrated Gem Of The Gulf Coast Is An Island State Park With Warm White Sand Beaches Near Tampa

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 17:45:00 +0000

There are still plenty of underrated gems in the Sunshine State, and this Florida island state park is absolutely deserving of the designation.

What Nobody Believes About The Florida Everglades Until They See It For Themselves

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 22:45:00 +0000

The Florida Everglades are world-famous, but there is a certain aspect to the vast wetlands that many people are not aware of.

Florida's County Known For White-Sand, Warm Beaches Is A Gulf Coast Getaway With Vibrant Downtowns

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 20:45:00 +0000

This Florida county is home to more than white-sand beaches, as you'll also find a wealth of charming, walkable communities with fun amenities.

Disney World Vs Disneyland: Which Is The Better Amusement Park?

staff@islands.com (Christine Pickering) — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 14:45:00 +0000

Everyone has an opinion, from frequent Disney visitors to those who just want to chime in online, so let's try to figure out which Disney park is really better.

Between Orlando And Ocala Is Florida's World-Class Biking And Paddling Trail From The Gulf Coast To St. Johns River

staff@islands.com (Kareem Gantt) — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Not many people realize this trail exists, but it's an important link for both nature enthusiasts and wildlife looking to traverse north-central Florida.

Florida's Serene Suburb Outside Orlando Offers Small-Town Charm, Adventure, And Nearby Lake Getaways

staff@islands.com (Anahid Akkam) — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 20:45:00 +0000

This Florida suburb invites travelers to trade crowds for scenic trails, family-friendly adventures, wildlife encounters, and easy access to sparkling lakes.

Florida's Nostalgic Mall In Orlando That Thrived In The '70s Now Feels Nearly Abandoned

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 23:45:00 +0000

Florida is home to a once-beloved shopping destination where echoes of crowds, retro architecture, and memories now create a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Between Tampa And Orlando Is Florida's Most Magical Family-Friendly City With Iconic Resort Vibes, Shops, And Eats

staff@islands.com (Brandy Jo Hastings) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 17:25:00 +0000

Disney fans will love this tiny destination near Orlando, as it's home to several resorts, shopping centers, and restaurants with ties to the iconic brand.

Miami Beach's New Hotel Is A Stylish Florida Retreat With A European-Inspired Rooftop Restaurant And Pool

staff@islands.com (Kira Reinke) — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:25:00 +0000

This European-style escape features private-terrace rooms, a stunning rooftop pool overlooking the ocean, and a glamorous St. Tropez French Riviera restaurant.

Florida's Lovely Trail Starting In The Greater Everglades Is Called One Of The 'Most Beautiful Hikes In The US'

staff@islands.com (Reannon Muth) — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 03:45:00 +0000

Exchange mountain views for swamp time exploration along one of the most beautiful hiking routes in the country that traverses Florida's Greater Everglades.

Florida's Easy Under-The-Radar Hike Near Orlando Has Wildlife And Wildflowers That Smell Like Chocolate

staff@islands.com (Brandy Jo Hastings) — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:45:00 +0000

This brand new hiking trail and wildlife preserve is just minutes from Orlando but feels a world away, the perfect spot to stop and smell the wildflowers.

Between Jacksonville And Gainesville Is Florida's Charming State Forest With Idyllic Trails, Fishing, And Peace

staff@islands.com (Arianna Helene Winslow) — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

The idyllic spot feels primordial and ancient, with its towering pines and dense palmettos, but it's also a relaxing place for a stroll in the woods.

Between Jacksonville And West Palm Beach Is Florida's Once-Thriving Coastal Village That's Now An Abandoned Gem

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:45:00 +0000

There are plenty of lively locations in Florida with bustling attractions, but don't miss the quiet (and spooky) allure of a sun-soaked ghost town.

Between Tampa And Gainesville Is Florida's Once-Thriving Lumber Town That's Now Ruins In A Nature Preserve

staff@islands.com (Audrey Simons) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Before it became a beach-heavy tourist spot, Florida's lumber industry was booming. Remnants and ruins of this onetime industry can still be found today.

Florida's Barrier Island Resort Is Situated Right On The Gulf Coast With A Private Beach And Nearby Eats

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This Gulf Coast beach resort near Clearwater boasts private shoreline access, waterfront amenities, and quick access to local dining joints.

Between Orlando And West Palm Beach Is Florida's Lovely Nature Area For Trails, Wildlife, And Stargazing

staff@islands.com (Madeleine Bee) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 03:00:00 +0000

Pitch a tent and spend a night under the stars or hike along trails through marshland, keeping an eye out for heron and deer at this Florida nature area.