From the Florida Keys to Miami Beach: Relaxed Luxury, Easy Adventure & Sunshine-Powered Soul Time
If you’re craving sunshine, soft sand, and a trip that blends relaxation with adventure—but without the overwhelm—South Florida might be exactly what you need. Between the pastel Art Deco vibes of Miami Beach and the tranquil blue waters of the Keys, this part of Florida is perfect for solo female travelers looking for a getaway that’s just the right mix of ease and excitement.
Whether you’re dipping your toes into solo travel for the first time or are a seasoned pro, here are some of the best things to do in South Florida when you’re exploring on your own:
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Snorkel (or Boat) Through America’s First Underwater Park
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo
This is where Florida starts to shine—literally, underwater. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or go snorkeling right off the beach. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and a gentle way to feel connected to nature. You don’t need a tour group either—just show up, rent gear, and go.
Admission: $8/vehicle + activity fees; Glass-bottom boat: ~$24 adults
Open daily, 8am–sunset
Boating to Spot Dolphins, Manatees & More
One of the absolute highlights of a Florida trip—especially if you’re traveling with little ones—is getting out on the water to spot wildlife. Whether you’re cruising through the calm bays of The Keys or gliding across the Everglades, there’s something magical about seeing dolphins surf the boat’s wake or spotting manatees bobbing along beside you.
We took a sunset cruise with Pirates Cove Watersports out of Key Largo, which was relaxing, scenic, and toddler-friendly (no big waves!). The shallow waters make for a smooth ride, and we had great chances of dolphin sightings—plus the golden light at sunset was incredible.
You can also join glass-bottom boat tours or kayak eco-tours from John Pennekamp State Park, or head out from Islamorada or Marathon for a half-day marine adventure.
Pirates Cove Sunset Cruise: Departs around 6:30 PM (varies by season)
Prices: ~$40/adult, ~$30/child under 12Location: 99701 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL
More info here
There’s still a lot of things to do in Key Largo if you’re itching to do more or have a longer period of time for your road trip, and here’s our list of the best Key Largo beaches!
Meet Rescued Sea Turtles
The Turtle Hospital, Marathon
For something heartwarming and educational, this nonprofit hospital rehabilitates injured sea turtles and releases them back into the wild. Guided tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at marine animal care—perfect for anyone who loves animal welfare or eco-conscious travel.
Admission: $35 adults (guided tours only) Tours run every half hour from 9am–4pm
For more in Marathon, check out our full Marathon, Florida guide with 29 more things to do!
Stay Somewhere That Feels Like a Retreat
Playa Largo Resort & Spa in Key Largo
You don’t have to “rough it” to be a real traveler. If you’re the kind of solo explorer who recharges through comfort and beauty, these spots are ideal. Playa Largo has beachfront access, a serene pool, and on-site dining—so you can soak in the surroundings without needing to leave the property.
There’s also a lovely spa onsite with a steam room! I had the waves massage, which was like a deep tissue massage, which is just the best after a long flight and drive.
Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key (near Marathon)
Hawks Cay Resort is located on Duck Key with that perfectly aquamarine water you think of when picturing The Keys. There’s a Michelin-level restaurant onsite (Salt & Ash) and some of the rooms open right up to the pool! There’s an adults only pool for some peace and quiet, too.
Where to Eat in the Florida Keys
Bayside Grille (Key Largo)
Casual, waterfront dining with fresh seafood and unbeatable sunset views. Their mahi-mahi with key lime beurre blanc was a standout, and the relaxed vibe makes it great with or without kids. Bonus: there’s a giant beach chair and cornhole out back.
Sol by the Sea (Playa Largo Resort & Spa)
Right at the Playa Largo Resort, this open-air, beachfront restaurant is all about breezy vibes and fresh coastal flavors. Think seafood-forward dishes with a touch of Florida flair. A great choice for sunset.
Salt & Ash (Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key)
A MICHELIN Guide–listed gem that somehow manages to be both upscale and family-friendly. The service was attentive, the food thoughtful and delicious, and you don’t even have to leave the resort.
Robert Is Here (Homestead stop en route to Miami)
More than a fruit stand—this spot serves legendary milkshakes, exotic fruit smoothies, and has a mini petting zoo. Don’t leave without trying the key lime shake.
Zip Through the Everglades on an Airboat
Everglades Alligator Farm, Homestead
If you’re looking for something iconic and a little wild (in a totally safe way), this is it. Airboat rides skim through the Everglades at thrilling speeds, and the guides are great at pointing out gators and birds. It’s short, fun, and surprisingly meditative once you hit the open grasslands.
The Everglades Alligator Farm is a no-kill sanctuary that rehomes ‘nuisance’ gators. This is the full Florida experience, complete with gator shows and the opportunity to hold baby gators.
Admission: $34 adults (includes airboat & gator show) Open daily, 9am–5:30pm
Refuel with Smoothies & Goats
Robert Is Here Fruit Stand, Homestead
Yes, there’s a mini petting zoo. And yes, the key lime milkshake lives up to the hype. This quirky roadside stand is the perfect stop on the way to or from The Keys—especially if you’re solo and want a feel-good, low-pressure place to take a break.
Open daily, 9am–6pm Free to visit; smoothies ~$7
Miami’s Best Things to Do
Feed Your Inner Science Nerd
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Downtown Miami
This one and the Miami Children’s Museum is probably more relevant to families, but for those traveling with kids, don’t miss the rooftop deck, three-level aquarium, or the planetarium shows. It’s hands-on, stimulating, and makes for a fun afternoon. There’s also a small café and plenty of places to sit and just be.
Admission: $30 adults Open daily, 10am–6pm
Soak in Art, Culture & Color
Miami Beach Botanical Garden + Lincoln Road + Ocean Drive
These three spots make the perfect self-guided walking loop. Start at the Botanical Garden for peaceful plant therapy. Then wander over to Lincoln Road for shopping, people-watching, and lunch at Havana 1957 (try the chicken bowl with tender chicken, plantains, rice & beans). Wrap it all up on Ocean Drive, where neon lights, classic cars, and pastel Art Deco hotels feel straight out of a movie.
Here’s a full list of more of our favorite things to do in Miami!
Botanical Garden: Free; Lincoln Rd: Free to stroll Garden open Tues–Sun, 9am–5pm
Where to Eat in Miami
AVIV at the 1 Hotel South Beach
Solo dining can be empowering—or a little awkward depending on the setting. AVIV makes it easy. This Tel Aviv–inspired restaurant by a James Beard Award–winning team feels both special and relaxed. No one blinks when you’re dining alone here—and the phyllo-wrapped halloumi and fresh dips are out of this world.
News Cafe South Beach
News Cafe is a great place to dine solo if you’re traveling alone in Florida. It’s right in South Beach where the action is, with music pumping and lots of great people watching. The menu is varied and flavorful, and it’s an icon!
Havana 1957
As mentioned above, you can’t visit Miami without trying Cuban food! There are several locations of Havana 1957, so regardless of where you are in Miami Beach, you can enjoy their offerings.
Rosa Sky Rooftop
If you’re traveling with girlfriends or solo and want to soak up some Miami nightlife, head to Rosa Sky‘s Rooftop late night dining restaurant and bar for some amazing local ambiance!
Where to Stay in Miami Beach
Tucked along the quieter stretch of Miami Beach, The Palms Hotel & Spa feels like a serene retreat from the city’s bustle—without sacrificing location. This beachfront resort blends tropical gardens, a warm, eco-friendly ethos, and easy access to the beach and boardwalk.
The spacious rooms, inviting pool, and direct beach access make it a dream for families, but it’s also peaceful enough for couples or solo travelers looking to unwind. Essensia, the on-site farm-to-table restaurant, makes it easy to eat well without ever leaving the property. Plus, the spa offers full wellness treatments if you need a little extra rejuvenation.
It’s luxury with a laid-back twist—the kind of place where you can recharge between all your Miami adventures.
Things to Note
Whether it’s sunrise yoga on the beach, a barefoot walk through the surf, or journaling in a cabana, Miami Beach offers so many beautiful ways to close your trip with intention.
Getting There – There is an international airport in Miami and one in Key West, so technically, you could get a one-way ticket to Miami and then leave from Key West (or vice versa).
Also consider time of year. While Florida is warm and tropical year-round, the summers can be warmer and ‘winters’ more mild, and it’s a particularly great spot for March, April, May, and November. We happened to visit in June, and I thought the weather was nearly perfect.
South Florida blends luxury and accessibility, nature and culture, rest and adventure. It’s one of those rare places where you can do it all—or do nothing at all—and still come away feeling like you’ve had a meaningful trip.
Whether you’re swimming with reef fish, watching Art Deco sunsets, or sipping guava juice under a palm tree, this is the kind of solo journey that reminds you how powerful it is to travel on your own.
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