Best Weekend Getaways from Miami 2026

When the city buzz of South Florida runs hot, Miami offers one of the best launch pads for fast escapes. In every direction, you’ll find islands, wetlands, culture-packed cities, and powder-soft beaches just a short drive or train ride away. In this guide to the best weekend getaways from Miami, you’ll discover quick, nearby destinations that deliver relaxation, adventure, and rich local flavor without long travel days.

Whether you’re craving coral reefs in the Florida Keys, art and dining in Fort Lauderdale, or a nature reset in the Everglades, this list spotlights short trips near Miami that fit perfectly into 2–3 days. You’ll get travel times, top things to do, lodging ideas, and the best times to visit. Use it to plan stress-free, memorable breaks to the best weekend destinations near Miami—no complicated itineraries required.

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Why Plan a Weekend Getaway from Miami?

A short getaway gives you the reset you need, without the logistics of a longer vacation. Two or three days away can help you break routine, decompress, and rediscover what you love—whether that’s wading through mangroves, tasting fresh-caught seafood, or strolling historic streets lined with palms. Because Miami sits near the Keys, Everglades, and Gulf Coast, you can reach a totally different vibe in under four hours.

Most of the destinations below are 30 minutes to 4 hours from Miami by car, Brightline train, or a quick flight. That makes them ideal for Friday–Sunday or Saturday–Monday trips. With smart planning, you can arrive by midday, hit a signature experience in the afternoon, enjoy a great dinner, then squeeze in a second highlight before heading home.

Why should you plan a weekend trip from Miami? Because South Florida packs incredible variety into short distances. One weekend can be snorkeling a living reef; the next, biking seaside trails or browsing Gilded Age mansions. You’ll refresh your senses, keep travel costs down, and come home feeling like you took a real vacation—without taking much PTO.

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Top Weekend Getaways from Miami

Below, explore eight standout destinations. Each mini-guide covers how to get there, why it’s special, what to do, where to stay, and the best season to go. Use these to choose your next weekend getaway from Miami.

Key West — End-of-the-Road island magic

• Distance/Travel Time: About 160 miles via the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1); 3.5–4.5 hours by car depending on traffic. Keys Shuttle and FlixBus operate bus routes; flights from Miami take ~1 hour. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Key West blends quirky Conch culture with pastel architecture, sunset rituals, and clear blue water. You’ll stroll lively Duval Street, tour historic homes, and snorkel or sail by day. Even better, the journey through the Keys doubles as a road-trip highlight. • Top Things to Do:

• Catch the nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square.
• Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and meet the six-toed cats.
• Snorkel at Dry Tortugas National Park (day trip by ferry or seaplane) or head to Fort Zachary Taylor for beach time.
• Savor fresh seafood and Key lime pie; try a sunset sail or dolphin-watching cruise. • Where to Stay: Boutique B&Bs in Old Town put you near the action, while small inns on Truman Annex feel quiet and refined. For resort style, look to waterfront properties with pools. Book early—rooms fill fast on weekends. • Best Time to Visit: December–April brings dry, comfortable weather. May and November are great value months. Summer offers warm seas but comes with higher humidity and afternoon storms.

For SEO-savvy planning, many travelers search “weekend getaway from Miami to Key West.” If that’s you, book accommodations and any Dry Tortugas transport well ahead, especially in winter.

Key Largo & Islamorada — Reefs, wrecks, and rod-bending fun

• Distance/Travel Time: Key Largo is 60–70 miles from Miami (1–1.5 hours). Islamorada sits roughly 85–90 miles south (1.5–2 hours). Bus services run from Miami; self-drive is easiest. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Key Largo and Islamorada delivers Florida Keys classics: snorkeling the living coral reef, exploring underwater statues, and sampling famous fish sandwiches. Islamorada adds a world-class sportfishing scene and artsy island charm. • Top Things to Do:

• Snorkel or dive at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo), home to colorful fish and the Christ of the Abyss statue.
• Book a half-day reef fishing or backcountry charter in Islamorada.
• Paddle mangrove tunnels by kayak or SUP.
• Visit the Florida Keys Brewing Co. or Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park. • Where to Stay: Choose waterside lodges, eco-friendly boutique hotels, or family-friendly resorts with on-site marinas. Budget travelers can consider retro motor courts or vacation rentals. • Best Time to Visit: November–April offers cooler, clear conditions ideal for diving and fishing. Summer brings warm water and lively reef life but expect afternoon storms and higher humidity.

Insider tip: Pack reef-safe sunscreen and your own mask/snorkel to save rental fees. If you’re planning a weekend getaway from Miami to Key Largo or Islamorada, pre-book boat tours for morning departures when seas are calmer.

Everglades National Park — Wild wetlands and wildlife encounters

• Distance/Travel Time: Several entrances lie 45–90 minutes from Miami. Shark Valley (via US-41/Tamiami Trail) is about 50 miles west; Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center near Homestead is roughly an hour. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Everglades National Park plunges you into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see alligators, wading birds, and vast river-of-grass vistas, plus mangrove estuaries near Flamingo. It’s a total change of pace, with stellar wildlife photography and ranger-led learning. • Top Things to Do:

• Bike the 15-mile Shark Valley Tram Road to the observation tower or join the tram tour.
• Walk Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail for reliable wildlife sightings.
• Paddle Nine Mile Pond or rent a canoe in Flamingo to trace mangrove creeks.
• Visit the Miccosukee or Seminole reservations nearby for cultural insight. • Where to Stay: Inside the park, you’ll find eco-tents and camping in Flamingo. Nearby, Homestead and Florida City offer budget hotels and chain stays. Nature lodges and cabins dot the Redland area for a retreat feel. • Best Time to Visit: December–April is the dry season with cooler temps, fewer mosquitoes, and abundant wildlife. Summer can be steamy with frequent storms—pack bug spray and plan early mornings.

Book park activities in advance where possible, and consider the America the Beautiful pass if you love parks. This weekend getaway from Miami to the Everglades pairs perfectly with a Redland farm stop for tropical fruit shakes.

Naples & Marco Island — Gulf glamour, sunsets, and shelling

• Distance/Travel Time: About 125–140 miles west via I-75 (Alligator Alley); 2–2.5 hours to Naples, 2.5–3 hours to Marco Island. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Naples and Marco Island delivers pristine Gulf beaches, excellent dining, and a slower, polished vibe. Expect glorious sunsets, soft sand, and easy access to nature in the Ten Thousand Islands. • Top Things to Do:

• Catch sunset at Naples Pier and stroll Third Street South or Fifth Avenue South.
• Take a boat tour through Ten Thousand Islands for dolphin spotting and shelling.
• Explore Clam Pass Park’s boardwalk and Mangrove Bay kayaking.
• Visit the Baker Museum and the Naples Botanical Garden for culture and color. • Where to Stay: Choose from beachfront resorts, stylish boutique hotels near downtown Naples, or condo-style stays on Marco Island. Budget-friendly chain hotels sit along US-41 and near I-75. • Best Time to Visit: November–April offers mild, dry conditions and calmer Gulf waters. Late spring and early fall can be quieter and more affordable. Summer brings heat and afternoon storms but fewer crowds.

If you’re planning a weekend getaway from Miami to Naples, reserve dinner tables and tours early in peak season. For savings, check midweek rates or look for packages that bundle resort credits with boat excursions.

Fort Lauderdale — Canals, culture, and craft brews

• Distance/Travel Time: Roughly 30–45 minutes by car from Miami, depending on traffic. Brightline runs Miami–Fort Lauderdale in ~30–35 minutes; Tri-Rail takes ~40–50 minutes. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Fort Lauderdale swaps big-city bustle for relaxed waterfront living. You’ll find art districts, excellent restaurants, and Venice-like canals lined with yachts. It’s close, easy, and full of variety for foodies and sun-seekers. • Top Things to Do:

• Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway by water taxi.
• Explore Las Olas Boulevard for gallery hopping and dining.
• Relax at Fort Lauderdale Beach or hike Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
• Visit the NSU Art Museum or Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. • Where to Stay: Beachfront resorts line the A1A; boutique hotels near Las Olas offer a central base. Budget options cluster near the airport and I-95. For groups, consider canal-side vacation rentals. • Best Time to Visit: December–April is prime with warm, sunny days. Shoulder seasons (May, October–November) deliver value with fewer crowds.

To streamline a weekend getaway from Miami to Fort Lauderdale, ride Brightline to skip parking costs and traffic. Then use the water taxi as a scenic hop-on, hop-off system between beaches, bars, and attractions.

West Palm Beach & Palm Beach — Gilded-age glam meets garden calm

• Distance/Travel Time: About 70 miles north; 1.25–1.75 hours by car. Brightline from Miami to West Palm Beach takes ~1 hour 15–25 minutes. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Palm Beach shines with manicured streets, designer shopping, and postcard-worthy architecture. Across the bridge, West Palm Beach adds a lively downtown, green markets, and cultural venues. • Top Things to Do:

• Tour The Breakers’ grand public spaces or visit the Flagler Museum (Whitehall).
• Stroll Worth Avenue’s vias and courtyards.
• Bike the Lake Trail for bay views and historic mansions.
• Browse the Norton Museum of Art and Clematis Street’s restaurants. • Where to Stay: Look for boutique inns on Palm Beach, luxury resorts like The Breakers, or stylish downtown West Palm hotels near the Brightline station. Budget travelers can base along US-1 or near Palm Beach International Airport. • Best Time to Visit: December–April brings breezy, comfortable days. Early December and late April often deliver great weather and fewer crowds.

If you’re planning a weekend getaway from Miami to West Palm Beach, Brightline makes it car-free. Add a garden stop at Mounts Botanical Garden for a serene morning before lunch on Clematis.

Key Biscayne — Close-to-home beaches and biking bliss

• Distance/Travel Time: Just 15–25 minutes from Downtown Miami via the Rickenbacker Causeway (toll road); add time on busy beach weekends. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Key Biscayne feels worlds away without a long drive. You’ll find calm beaches, lighthouse views, and miles of bike paths through Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and Crandon Park. It’s perfect for families, picnics, and sunrise lovers. • Top Things to Do:

• Climb the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse (tour days vary) and walk the nature trails.
• Paddleboard or kayak along sheltered shores; look for manatees in winter.
• Picnic and swim at Crandon Park; explore the Bear Cut Preserve.
• Bike the paved paths at sunrise, then refuel at locally loved cafés. • Where to Stay: While Key Biscayne has a few upscale resorts and vacation rentals, many visitors base in Brickell or Coconut Grove and make it a beach-focused weekend. • Best Time to Visit: November–April brings mild temps and gentle breezes. Summer offers warm water but prepare for afternoon storms and higher humidity.

Because it’s close, a weekend getaway from Miami to Key Biscayne is budget-friendly. Pack a cooler, beach tent, and reef-safe sunscreen. Arrive early for parking, especially on sunny Saturdays.

Orlando — Theme parks and immersive entertainment (now closer by train)

• Distance/Travel Time: Driving from Miami takes about 3.5–4 hours via Florida’s Turnpike. Brightline connects Miami to Orlando in roughly 3.5 hours, making a car-free weekend doable. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Orlando opens the door to world-famous theme parks, cutting-edge rides, and unique dining districts. Thanks to Brightline, you can skip the drive and maximize your park time. • Top Things to Do:

• Spend a day at Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando; target one park per day for sanity.
• Explore Disney Springs or Universal CityWalk for dining and shopping.
• Visit the Orlando Museum of Art or ride ICON Park’s Wheel for city views.
• Cool off at a water park, or kayak Orlando’s spring-fed rivers on day trips. • Where to Stay: Choose on-site resorts for park access and perks, or book off-site hotels near International Drive for value. Vacation rentals suit families or groups looking for kitchens and extra space. • Best Time to Visit: January–March (excluding holiday weekends) and late August–September bring thinner crowds. Spring and fall offer pleasant temps, while summer is hot and stormy but often discounts lodging.

To optimize a weekend getaway from Miami to Orlando, pre-purchase timed park tickets, use mobile ordering for meals, and prioritize rides with virtual queues. Brightline + rideshare is a smooth combo.

Sarasota — Artsy Gulf charm with top-ranked beaches

• Distance/Travel Time: About 230–250 miles northwest via I-75; plan for 3.5–4 hours by car. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Miami to Sarasota rewards you with Siesta Key’s powdery quartz sand, a thriving arts scene, and the grand Ringling estate. Expect calm Gulf waters, thoughtful dining, and sunsets that steal the show. • Top Things to Do:

• Spend the day at Siesta Beach or Lido Key; try a sunset drum circle on Siesta.
• Tour The Ringling’s museums and Ca’ d’Zan mansion.
• Kayak the mangrove tunnels at Ted Sperling Park.
• Explore St. Armands Circle for shopping and gelato. • Where to Stay: Look for boutique hotels in downtown Sarasota, beach resorts on Lido or Longboat Key, or vacation rentals on Siesta Key. Budget options exist inland along US-41. • Best Time to Visit: November–April offers mild weather and clear Gulf days; late spring and early fall bring value and warm water.

If your goal is a quieter beach escape, a weekend getaway from Miami to Sarasota trades South Florida bustle for walkable neighborhoods and artsy evenings.

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Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Miami

Packing light and planning smart turn a short break into a satisfying one. Here’s how to make it seamless.

• Keep the itinerary tight. Pick one home base and focus on 2–3 highlights. That prevents rushing and frees time for serendipity.
• Travel early. Leave Miami before rush hour, or take an early Brightline train. You’ll hit your first activity by late morning.
• Book anchors in advance. Reserve must-do tours, park entries, and dinner spots before you go, especially in peak season.
• Choose the right transport.
  • Drive for the Keys, Gulf Coast, and Everglades flexibility (bring a SunPass for toll savings).
  • Ride Brightline for Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando to avoid parking and traffic.
• Time your outdoor plans. Aim for mornings and late afternoons. Midday is best for lunch, museums, or a pool break.
• Payment and parking. Budget for meters and garage fees in coastal towns. Keep a credit card for tolls and parking apps.

Booking and accommodation tips:

• Compare hotel deals on reliable platforms and check resort fees. Boutique properties and vacation rentals often book out for weekends—reserve early.
• For frequent travelers, consider loyalty programs to unlock upgrades or late check-out.
• If you plan multiple state or national park visits this year, the Florida State Parks annual pass or America the Beautiful pass can save money.

What should I pack for a weekend trip from Miami?

• Essentials: Lightweight daypack, refillable water bottle, sunglasses, hat, reef-safe sunscreen, bug repellent (picaridin or DEET for wetlands), compact rain jacket.
• Beach/Keys: Swimwear, quick-dry towel, water shoes, snorkel mask, dry bag, phone lanyard.
• City breaks: Comfortable walking shoes, smart-casual outfit for dinner, portable charger, transit cards.
• Safety/comfort: Mini first-aid kit, electrolyte packets, and copies of IDs. For boat trips, bring motion-sickness bands if needed.

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Best Time to Plan Weekend Getaways from Miami

South Florida’s weather splits into two main seasons. The dry season runs roughly November through April, with comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer bugs—perfect for Everglades hikes, Keys snorkeling, and city exploring. Expect daytime highs around 72–80°F (22–27°C) and nighttime lows in the 60s°F (16–21°C). Ocean temps hover in the low to mid-70s°F (21–24°C).

The wet season spans May through October. Days turn hot and humid, with highs around 88–92°F (31–33°C). Short, intense afternoon storms are common. Ocean temperatures climb into the 80s°F (27–30°C), ideal for long swims and water sports. However, mosquitoes surge in wetlands, and hurricane season runs June–November, peaking August–October. Always check forecasts and consider travel insurance in late summer and fall.

Seasonal suggestions:

• Beach escapes (Keys, Naples, Sarasota): November–May for mild temps and calmer seas; summer suits warm-water swimmers and snorkelers.
• Nature and hiking (Everglades): December–April for visibility, cooler temps, and fewer insects.
• City/culture (Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach): November–April for perfect walking weather and event calendars in full swing.
• Theme parks (Orlando): January–March and late August–September for thinner crowds; avoid major holiday weekends.

One more note: Sargassum seaweed can arrive on Atlantic beaches, typically spring through summer, and varies by year and wind. If that’s a concern, the Gulf Coast (Naples, Sarasota) often sees clearer water during those periods.

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Budget and Planning Advice

A smart budget keeps your weekend relaxing. Here’s what to expect for a 2–3 day getaway, per person with double occupancy:

• Accommodation (2 nights):
  • Budget: $120–200 per night (city outskirts, chain hotels)
  • Mid-range: $200–350 per night (boutique or well-rated central hotels)
  • Splurge: $350–700+ per night (beachfront resorts, Key West, Palm Beach)
• Transportation:
  • Gas/tolls for nearby drives: $30–80 round trip
  • Brightline: ~$25–85 each way to Fort Lauderdale/West Palm; ~$79–149+ each way to Orlando (varies by fare and timing)
  • Parking: $10–40 per day in cities/resorts
• Food & drinks: $45–100 per day (casual to upscale dining mix)
• Activities:
  • Parks/museums: Free–$30
  • Boat tours/snorkel/fishing: $50–200
  • Theme park tickets: $120–200+ per day

Approximate totals for two nights:

• Budget weekend: $300–600 per person
• Mid-range weekend: $600–1,000 per person
• Splurge weekend: $1,000–1,800+ per person Key West and theme-park weekends land at the higher end; Everglades and Fort Lauderdale can be easier on the wallet.

How much does a weekend trip from Miami cost? Plan on $600–1,000 per person for a comfortable 2-night getaway with a couple of paid activities and mid-range dining. Go budget by choosing car-free day trips, picnics, and free beaches; splurge by booking beachfront resorts, private charters, and top-tier restaurants.

Money- and time-saving tools:

• Route planning: Google Maps offline areas, Waze for live traffic.
• Bookings: Use trusted hotel engines to compare rates, filter by “free cancellation,” and watch for resort fees.
• Train tickets: Buy Brightline fares early for the best prices; consider premium fares for lounge access if you value time and comfort.
• Itineraries: Use TripIt or Wanderlog to keep confirmations in one place.
• Passes:
  • America the Beautiful (national parks) if you plan multiple park visits.
  • State park annual pass for Florida locals who love beach and nature weekends.

Gear ideas: Keep a compact beach kit in your trunk—folding chairs, microfiber towels, and a soft cooler. A lightweight daypack and a waterproof phone case pay for themselves on boat days. For the Keys, packing your own snorkel set saves rental fees and lets you hit the water sooner.

By design, the best weekend getaways from Miami don’t require a long flight or complicated planning. With this guide, you can pick your vibe—reef, city, wetlands, or Gulf coast—and be on the road or rails by Friday. Book your stay, block your top two activities, and keep the rest flexible. That way, you’ll return refreshed, sun-kissed, and already dreaming about your next short trip near Miami.

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Frequently Asked Questions