Three Florida Destinations Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

One of my favorite things I used to do was attempt to drive and get lost in the State of Florida. It's a pretty hard thing to do, but in my attempts, I've found some great weekend getaway locations that I'd like to share. It's possibly many of you have been to these places, then again maybe you haven't. I would not hesitate to advise you to think about these locations for your next weekend getaway.

Islamorada, Florida Keys - When I lived in the Ft. Lauderdale area, I tried to make it to Islamorada as often as possible. For me the main reason is that I like to fish, but I prefer to fish on a party boat and let someone else run the show. I don't mind getting dirty and slimy. I will prepare my own rig from getting new line, tying the hook and baiting the line. No sweat. What I never really liked was having to remove the fish I caught. I get a little jumpy over that. Put me on a river with a Large Mouth Bass on my line, no problemo. Throw a 20lb Mutton Snapper on my hook, problem. This is why I like to go to Islamorada and book a trip on the Miss Tradewinds (305-664-8341) which party boat translates to me, someone else dealing with the mess and all I have to do is fish. You can head down there on a Friday, party all night at Holiday Isle having cocktails at RumRunners, then dance the night away at Kokomo's. Try not to drink too much and hop on the party boat. There are several there to choose from and they get booked quickly during peak season so you might also want to check our Bud N Mary's or Robbie's for rates and availability.

Amelia Island - A fabulous weekend getaway in you prefer to head North. Up on the east coast of Florida near the Georgia border, this island getaway turned out to be perfect even during threatening hurricane weather. Yes, we picked a bad time to go, but it was still a lovely place to be. Relax the day away at the beach, which is easy to do when there is thirteen miles of it. You can stroll the eclectic collection of shops, dine at several restaurants or get in a game of golf if you want. If you are a true golfer and taking a car trip, I would bet you packed your clubs. Find a touch of some old world charm here. The other great thing is that we were able to squeeze in another unexpected road trip from her and took a two hour drive directly North to Savannah, Georgia to have lunch. It couldn't have been more perfect.

St. Pete Beach on the West Coast is also another great weekend getaway. Taking a couple days to relax at the Don Cesar Hotel in all it's Pepto-Bismol glory. It really isn't that bad for a big pink monstrosity on the beach. First off, it is actually very beautiful and right on the beach. A spa to die for awaits you here and miles of gorgeous beach with some of the best shells to be found. Take a drive to Sunset Beach and enjoy lunch while feeling the ocean breezes at Cady's on the Beach. You definitely want to add a frothy beverage while you're there. The Pina Colada's are delicious. There is almost always a volleyball game going on and lots of games and fun. If you prefer something a little quieter, then you can always move a little further north behind the Thunderbird Hotel which is Treasure Island. The widest stretch of beach around here, you have plenty of room to get some sun while keeping your distance from others.