If you’re looking to unwind and escape the routine of city living, this curated list of weekend getaways from Orlando is definitely for you! From the historic charm of St. Augustine to the natural beauty of Captiva Island, each destination offers a unique blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure. Here are the BEST weekend trips from Orlando that are all 4 hours away or less!
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Table of Contents
Top Weekend Getaways from Orlando
Whether you are looking to relax at a white sandy beach or try your luck in a round of golf, this list has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best weekend trips from Orlando!
1. New Smyrna Beach
- Distance from Orlando: 1 hour
- Hotel Recommendation: SpringHill Suites by Marriott New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is a fan favorite amongst many Floridians because not only is it one of the closest beaches to Orlando, but it’s also one of the most charming!
Here you can enjoy a day of fun in the sun and top off the day by exploring some of the restaurants and shops on Canal Street, and end the evening with grabbing a bite at one of the many local restaurants such as JB’s Fish Camp or The Garlic if you’re in the mood for some Italian fare.
And don’t forget to end your day with a pit stop at the infamous Frozen Gold ice cream shop!
2. Ormond Beach
- Distance from Orlando: 1 hour
- Hotel Recommendation: Hilton Vacation Club The Cove on Ormond Beach
Another classic beach town that Floridians love! Ormond Beach is the perfect place for those who want to do a little bit of natural exploring after a day at the beach. Some of the hotspots in Ormond Beach include Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail, and Tomoka State Park.
3. Tarpon Springs
- Distance from Orlando: 2 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Beso Del Sol
Nestled along the serene Gulf Coast, Tarpon Springs boasts a fusion of cultural richness and coastal beauty making it one of the best weekend trips from Orlando.
Whether admiring the tranquil waterfront, indulging in culinary delights like the Tarpon Turtle Waterfront Grill, or enjoying wandering throughout the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks enjoying some classic Greek fare, there’s so much to see and do!
4. Amelia Island
- Distance from Orlando: 3 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Hampton Inn and Suites Amelia Island Historic Harbor Front
If you’re looking for a quiet escape, look no further than Amelia Island! With over 13 miles of beautiful beaches, over 90 restaurants sprinkled around the island, and some great outdoor recreational activities — you definitely won’t be bored at Amelia Island.
Insider Tip: If you’re planning to visit in May, be sure to book your tickets to the Fish to Fork festival! The perfect event for any foodie.
5. St. Pete
- Distance from Orlando: 2 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club
St. Pete is one of the best Orlando getaways for a weekend. Mainly because there’s so much to do and see! If you’re a mural fan, the city has over 600 you can check out — it’s easy to see why it’s been dubbed the “City of Murals.”
The St. Pete Pier is another great attraction that features parks, restaurants, art installations, and the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center.
If you’re in the mood for some good seafood, check out Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille St Pete Pier for a delicious array of seafood and fun rum drinks.
6. Longboat Key
- Distance from Orlando: 2.5 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Lantern Inn & Suites
If you’re looking to escape to another sunny paradise, look no further than Longboat Key. For sports lovers, tee off on world-class golf courses or play tennis at The Resort at Longboat Key Club.
If you’re water-bound head on over to Beer Can Island for a laid-back afternoon of sun and surf. Animal lover? Jump on a dolphin cruise to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
7. West Palm Beach
- Distance from Orlando: 2.5 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham West Palm Beach
There’s something so exciting about visiting West Palm Beach, from the beautiful beaches to the vibrant nightlife — your weekend will be unforgettable! The nice part about West Palm Beach is the wide variety of beaches from busier and livelier ones with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing options surrounded by parks.
If you’re looking for something to do other than visit the beach, check out the Palm Beach Zoo, a non-profit zoological organization home to hundreds of animals in a 23-acre habitat.
Later in the evening, head on over to The Square which is filled with unique boutiques, art installations, and delicious restaurants.
8. Cocoa Beach
- Distance from Orlando: 1 hour
- Hotel Recommendation: Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront
Cocoa Beach is a classic weekend getaway. This is the perfect spot to catch some waves and rays while also enjoying a variety of outdoor activities like kayaking through the Thousand Islands, paddle boarding, and exploring the Banana River Lagoon by boat or kayak.
Another great attraction beyond the beach is checking out the Kennedy Space Center. And if you’re in the mood for some shopping, don’t forget to check out the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop — hailed as the world’s largest surf shop.
9. Miami
- Distance from Orlando: 3.5 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Wynwood Design District
Miami is one of the most vibrant locations on our list — and for good reason! Home to an incredible food, art, and shopping scene, there’s so much you can do to fill up your weekend agenda.
Spend the day taking a tour around tour “Millionaire Row & Celebrity Island” to check out some of the nicest houses in the area, or spend some time getting up and personal with the wildlife at Zoo Miami.
End the evening with a stop at the Surf Club Restaurant — a chic restaurant that has a bit of 1950’s glamour mixed with a modern flair.
Check out the full one weekend in Miami itinerary to see all the best hot spots in Miami!
10. St. Augustine
- Distance from Orlando: 1.5 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District
Ah, St. Augustine. What’s not to love about one of the oldest cities in America?! From the rich history to the amazing beaches, and of course, excellent restaurants. This is a favorite amongst Floridians because you’re almost transported to another world when you visit.
Take a tour of the liberal arts school, Flagler College, check out the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, and end the evening partaking in a fun ghost tour! Clocking in at just about 1.5 hours away, St. Augustine is one of the best short trips from Orlando!
11. Anna Maria Island
- Distance from Orlando: 2 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Anna Maria Island Dream Inn
Yet another great beach escape, but you really can’t go wrong with Anna Maria Island. When visiting, you’ll have your choice between public beach parks with full facilities like Coquina and Manatee Beach.
One of the most unique parts about this island? You don’t need a car! The island’s free trolley is perfect for getting around most parts of the island.
12. Gainesville
- Distance from Orlando: 2 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Hyatt Place Gainesville Downtown
Gainesville offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and charm of a college town. Located around 2 hours outside of Orlando, this is a fun weekend getaway that would be great to visit during college football season to get the full effect of the collegiate town vibe.
If you’re not big into sports, Gainesville offers a wide range of world-class museums like the Florida Museum of Natural History, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, and plenty of expansive nature trails.
13. Mount Dora
- Distance from Orlando: 45 minutes
- Hotel Recommendation: Quality Inn & Suites Mt Dora North
While this destination may not be too far away from Orlando, once you arrive you’ll feel like you’re in a whole different state! Mount Dora is one of the most charming towns in Florida simply because of its laid-back vibe. Mount Dora is also known as the “Festival City” because they hosts more than 30 festivals a year! That means there’s bound to be something to do when you visit.
Some of the highlights include visiting the Mount Dora Lighthouse at Grantham Park, renting a kayak to explore the Dora Canal, and indulging some treats from Allyson A Bake Shop.
14. Safety Harbor
- Distance from Orlando: 2 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Candlewood Suites Safety Harbor
Safety Harbor is another favorite amongst Floridians, and for good reason! Located just 2 hours outside of Orlando, this is the perfect place to grab some great food, check out the craft beer scene, and simply enjoy the great outdoors.
Brew hop between some of the local favorites like Crooked Thumb and Troubled Waters Brewing and spend some time walking around the Safety Harbor Main Street window shopping and checking out the eclectic art galleries. End the evening at a whimsical watering hole like Bar Fly for some delicious burgers and refreshing drinks.
15. Captiva
- Distance from Orlando: 4 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: South Seas Resort
The natural beauty of Captiva cannot be overstated. This is one of the most amazing Orlando getaways for a weekend. If you’re a beach lover, and I mean really love the beach, this is the destination for you. The island is essentially a thin strip of land located between the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island Sound.
If you’re up for more adventurous activities while visiting try hiking J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, fishing on the Pine Island Sound, or renting a jet ski. If you’re looking for a great and memorable place to grab dinner, you can’t go wrong with an island classic — The Bubble Room!
16. Naples
- Distance from Orlando: 3.5 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: Cove Inn on Naples Bay
Naples is another amazing beach escape that offers a wide variety of activities for families and solo travelers alike. If you’re looking for a relaxing activity head over to the Naples Botanical Garden, or explore the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Later in the afternoon check out the Coral Cay Adventure Golf or if you brought your dog check out the Bonita Beach Dog Park.
If you’re looking for some great food places you can’t go wrong with Gumbo Limbo, Seventh South Craft Food + Drink, and Andre’s Steakhouse.
17. Jacksonville Beach
- Distance from Orlando: 2 hours
- Hotel Recommendation: One Ocean Resort and Spa
Jacksonville Beach is often overlooked when people are considering a weekend escape from Orlando, but it’s definitely still an honorable mention! This spot is great for those looking for a more low-key beach weekend.
When it comes to beach activities, you’ve got a wide range of things to choose from! From surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing, the options are endless!
If you’re looking for some great food and drink options, definitely head over to Poe’s Tavern for some delicious hamburgers, fish tacos, sandwiches & salads, and if you’re looking for a lively time you can’t go wrong with Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar!
Map of Weekend Trips from Orlando
Now that you’ve seen the full list, use this handy map to plan out your next weekend getaway from Orlando!
Best Weekend Road Trips from Orlando Recap
As you can see, there are so many amazing weekend getaways from Orlando! Whether you’re looking for something adventurous, relaxing, charming, or just downright fun — there are so many options available for you to explore!
Here’s a quick recap of the best weekend trips from Orlando!
- New Smyrna Beach
- Ormond Beach
- Tarpon Springs
- Amelia Island
- St. Pete Beach
- Longboat Key
- West Palm Beach
- Cocoa Beach
- Miami
- St. Augustine
- Anna Maria Island
- Gainesville
- Mount Dora
- Safety Harbor
- Captiva Island
- Naples
- Jacksonville
What else would you add to this weekend getaways from Orlando list?! Let me know on insta!I always love new ideas!
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