Florida essentials

Distances and planning

Orlando to Palm Beach or to Tampa is about two to three hours by car, and the Panhandle is a long day’s drive away, so many visitors fly. Brightline trains link Orlando with West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Plan two or three regions for a one-week trip.

Toll roads

Many of Florida’s fastest highways, including Florida’s Turnpike, are toll roads, often with no cash booths. Ask your rental company how it charges for tolls before you drive away.

National park fees

Each park sets its own entrance fee. At Everglades National Park, a private vehicle pays $35 for seven days, and non-US residents aged 16 and over pay an extra $100 per person unless they enter with an annual pass. At Dry Tortugas and Castillo de San Marcos, entry is $15 per person for seven days (nps.gov). Many parks don’t take cash.

Money and tipping

Prices are usually shown before sales tax, which is added at the till. Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars; read the bill, as some restaurants add service charges.

Weather and seasons

Winter and spring are the high season in the south of the state, while summer brings heat, humidity and afternoon thunderstorms. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1 June to 30 November: if a storm threatens, follow official alerts and the advice of your hotel.

Questions and answers