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

5 Florida Lakes With The Highest-Quality Freshwater Fishing, According To Experts And Anglers

staff@islands.com (Brandy Jo Hastings) — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:45:00 +0000

From trophy bass to productive crappie waters, these Florida freshwater fishing destinations stand out based on expert research and angler reviews.

This Beachy State Park Is One Of Florida's Best Spots To Snorkel Through A Coral Reef Without A Boat

staff@islands.com (Sarah Salisbury) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:25:00 +0000

Tucked on a suburban barrier island and surrounded by development, this park is an oasis for local wildlife and the outdoor enthusiasts who come to view it.

Nestled Between Orlando And Sebring Is Florida's Lakeside State Park With Hiking Trails And Fishing

staff@islands.com (Kareem Gantt) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:25:00 +0000

If you want to get away from the buzz of Orlando, head to this nature preserve, where you can hike, fish, and see a different side of Florida.

East Vs West: Which Coast Has The Best Florida Beaches?

staff@islands.com (Hillary Louise Johnson) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Florida is famous for its many miles of diverse coastline; the most in the contiguous U.S. But which side of the Sunshine State has the best vacation spots?

Between Tampa And Tallahassee Is A Scenic Florida State Park For Hiking Trails, Fishing, And Biking

staff@islands.com (Kira Reinke) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 09:15:00 +0000

When you think of Florida, your mind may not immediately go to the nature coast, but it features some underrated natural wonders, like this state park.

Just Outside Downtown Miami Is A Once-Thriving Florida Stadium That Could Get A Major Restoration

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 01:45:00 +0000

Just beyond downtown Miami, a historic waterfront venue has been closed for decades as new plans move forward that could change its future use.

America's 'Best Small Retirement Town' Is A Friendly Florida Gem With Coastal Charm

staff@islands.com (Kareem Gantt) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

If you're looking to retire to Florida but aren't interested in the big cities, you might like this smaller town that still offers a lot to do.

Jacksonville's Oldest Neighborhood Is A Vibrant Florida Treasure With Walkable Charm And Cute Eateries

staff@islands.com (Ishaan Arora) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000

This is the oldest neighborhood in Jacksonville, a vibrant Florida treasure with walkable charm, historic buildings, cute eateries, and a big park.

What The 3 Best US States To Retire In 2026 All Have In Common

staff@islands.com (Kirtana Menon) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Planning retirement in 2026? These three U.S. states stand out for scenic landscapes, low costs, and plenty of ways to stay active year-round.

Tampa's Glitzy Business District Is Packed With Waterfront Feasts, Scenic Strolls, And Enticing Attractions

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 18:25:00 +0000

This thriving Tampa waterfront hub offers standout seafood, walkable streets, cultural landmarks, and easy connections to top attractions across the city.

Hidden In Dry Tortugas National Park Is A Once-Thriving Florida Fort That's Now A Popular Snorkeling Destination

staff@islands.com (Heather Cole) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 02:15:00 +0000

Explore a 19th-century fort and snorkel with colorful snapper and parrotfish in tropical waters with a visit to this island in Dry Tortugas National Park.

Not Everglades National Park, Nor Big Cypress National Preserve — this Is Florida's First Aquatic Preserve

staff@islands.com (Rachel-Jean Firchau) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 03:00:00 +0000

Dating back to the 1960s, this state park filled with hiking trails, diverse bird species, and other wildlife was Florida's first aquatic preserve.

Nestled In The Florida Keys Is A Scenic Beach Resort With White Sands, Relaxing Pools, And Family-Friendly Stays

staff@islands.com (Neha Maheshwari) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 18:25:00 +0000

Situated within walking distance of pristine beaches and even a designated turtle hospital, this Florida Keys resort is the crème de la crème.

Florida's Laid-Back Lagoon Is A Family-Friendly Getaway In Fort Myers

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:25:00 +0000

Skip the crowded beaches and head to this Fort Myers lagoon packed with activities, family-friendly amenities, events, and a convenient swim-up bar.

Between Jacksonville And The Atlantic Coast Is Florida's Highly-Rated Boutique Hotel Inside A Once Abandoned School

staff@islands.com (Kristin Conard) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:45:00 +0000

There are plenty of unique hotels in the world, but this boutique sleeping pad set in an abandoned school in Florida takes it to the next level.

America's Top-Rated Dog Beach For 2025 Is A Leash-Free Florida Paradise For Your Furry Friends

staff@islands.com (Hillary Louise Johnson) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 23:45:00 +0000

Planning a dog-friendly Florida trip? This top-rated leash-free beach offers long sandy stretches, easy access points, and amenities for pets and owners.

Florida's Unsung State Park Outside Tampa Is A Riverside Sprawl Perfect For Hiking And Mountain Biking

staff@islands.com (Kareem Gantt) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:45:00 +0000

This state park near Tampa offers excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities through one of Central Florida's most unique landscapes.

Between West Palm Beach And Miami Is America's Largest Outlet Mall With Over 350 Affordable And Premiere Shops

staff@islands.com (Kristin Conard) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:45:00 +0000

America's largest outlet mall has hundreds of stores with roughly 70 luxury shopping options, a range of restaurants, and even a movie theater.

Florida's Free Sculpture Garden In Orlando Is A Lovely Escape

staff@islands.com (Jonathan Houston) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:15:00 +0000

Travelers exploring Orlando, Florida can wander this outdoor sculpture garden filled with notable artworks set among palms and curated landscaping.

Florida's Appropriately-Named And Underrated Panhandle City Has Trails, Parks, And Seafood

staff@islands.com (Anna Robinson) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 03:00:00 +0000

This appropriately-named and underrated Florida city in the panhandle has trails, parks, fantastic boating, and delicious seafood, as well as a secluded feel.