Florida's Gulf Coast is a watercolor dreamscape of emerald green waters, sugar white sands, and spectacular sunsets that fade into vibrant shades of pinks and oranges. For travelers looking to soak in some of the Sunshine State's most striking coastal scenery, a road trip along the Gulf is the way to go. So pack your sunglasses, crank up the beach tunes, and get ready to cruise — these are some of the most scenic drives and road trips the Gulf Coast has to offer.
Overseas Highway/Seven Mile Bridge
No list of Florida's great coastal road trips would be complete without the iconic Overseas Highway and Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys. This 113-mile road trip highlights a true engineering marvel as motorists are carried aloft by a series of bridges over the sparkling teal waters of the Florida Straits. The crowning jewel is the Seven Mile Bridge, which feels like you're driving straight out into the boundless Gulf of Mexico horizon. Stop for fresh fish tacos and key lime pie in the laid-back Keys before continuing on through Key West at journey's end.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
For uninterrupted views of some of the Gulf Coast's most pristine beaches and natural scenery, head to Gulf Islands National Seashore. This 160-mile beachfront thoroughfare stretches from Pensacola into Mississippi, encompassing stunning barrier islands, coastal wetlands, and historic forts. Drive a portion of the area from Fort Pickens in Pensacola to the crowd-free shores of Perdido Key. Along the way, you'll find soft white sands, crescent beaches, and towering dunes blanketed in wild grasses and sea oats. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for dolphins frolicking just offshore.
Celebrated for its quirky beach towns and "mom and pop" vibe, Scenic Highway 30A is a must-do for coastal cruising along Florida's Panhandle. This 28.5 mile route meanders along the Gulf of Mexico through beachside communities like Seaside, WaterColor, Grayton Beach, and Rosemary Beach. Pastel colored beach cottages, funky art galleries, and locally-owned cafés will catch your eye as you weave through these charming hamlets. Time your drive for sunset and stop for a glass of wine as the sky erupts into a kaleidoscope of colors over the shimmering Gulf.
Travelers visiting TradeWinds Resort will want to check out the sublime beach scenery along the Longboat Key Loop. This 16-mile joy ride encircles Longboat Key, an angler's paradise and one of the Gulf Coast's most pristine barrier islands. Sparkling sand, sleepy beach towns, and a peaceful atmosphere are the order of the day here. Stop at Joan M. Durante Community Park for a waterfront picnic, or stretch your legs with a stroll through Longboat Key on the north end of the loop before continuing on.
For an additional taste of island time, take a day trip to nearby Sanibel and Captiva Islands along Florida's southwest Gulf Coast. This sister island duo is connected by a scenic 5-mile stretch of Gulf views perfect for cruising with the windows down. Once there, go for a leisurely beach stroll on Sanibel Island's world-famous shelling beaches in search of sand dollars and conch shells. Or get a dose of Old Florida at Captiva's funky shops and waterfront eateries like the Mucky Duck Pub. However you experience it, these Gulf islands are the essence of barefoot luxury living.
Explore More at TradeWinds Resort
From top to bottom, Florida's Gulf Coast is a beach lover's dream; one with countless drives and road trips through shimmering seaside villages and postcard-perfect shorelines. Whether it's a full day's scenic journey or just a few leisurely hours of coastal cruising, TradeWinds Resort puts you in the perfect home base to embark on any number of Gulf getaways by car. So fill up that tank, cue up those classic beach tunes, and get ready to soak in the warm Florida sunshine on an unforgettable coastal road trip.
