Points of Interest between Alys Beach, Florida to Ormond Beach, Florida

picture of Alys Beach, Florida

Road Trip Alert: Top Places to See When Driving From Alys Beach, Florida to Ormond Beach, Florida

If you are planning a road trip from Alys Beach, Florida, to Ormond Beach, Florida, you're in for a treat - there are some incredible attractions to see along the way. In this blog post, we are going to take you through some of the top places to see when driving this route. We've got everything from stunning natural landscapes to quirky attractions and delicious local eateries. So buckle up, grab a snack, and let's hit the road!

Natural Wonders and Beautiful Beaches

  1. Gulf Islands National Seashore: Our first stop on this road trip northward takes us to the beautiful Gulf Islands National Seashore. Located just outside Pensacola, Florida, this section of coastline covers some 150 miles and is a natural paradise for nature lovers. You'll encounter miles of pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and sparkling blue skies. Spend the day swimming, fishing, hiking, or simply lounging on the beach.

  2. St. George Island State Park: Continuing our drive, our next stop is the St. George Island State Park, which is located on St. George Island, approximately two hours and 30 minutes from Alys Beach. The park offers a tranquil haven for visitors, boasting nine miles of pristine beaches lapped by the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you can enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and camping.

  3. Ocala National Forest: If you're in the mood for a scenic drive through nature, then you won't want to miss a visit to the Ocala National Forest. Located in central Florida, this forest covers more than 600 square miles and is the perfect spot for a nature fix. You can stop for a hike, take a dip in one of the many swimming holes, or simply enjoy the tranquil scenery as you drive through.

  4. Tomoka State Park: Our final stop takes us to the Tomoka State Park, which sits on the banks of the Tomoka River. Here, you'll find over 2,000 acres of unspoiled natural beauty, where you can indulge in activities like kayaking, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. The park also boasts stunning wildlife sightings like manatees, alligators, and turtles.

Quirky Attractions and Fascinating Museums

  1. The Florida Caverns State Park: The Florida Caverns State Park is located in Marianna, Florida, and can be reached within four hours and 30 minutes. Here, you can explore some of the most impressive limestone caverns in the state. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating geology and history of the caves or hike through the park's beautiful landscapes.

  2. The Panama City Beach SkyWheel: Next on our fun-filled road trip is the Panama City Beach SkyWheel, located approximately one hour from the Florida Caverns State Park. This is a fantastic stop if you're looking for a thrill ride that also offers some stunning views. The SkyWheel stands at 200-feet-tall and offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, St. Andrew Bay, and Panama City Beach.

  3. The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing: If you're into cars, then you must stop at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, located just outside Ocala. The museum boasts one of the most extensive collections of antique cars in the world, and you'll get to see some of the most amazing cars in history, including Hot Rods, Top Fuel dragsters, and other rare and unique vehicles.

Delicious Eateries and Local Cuisine

  1. Bayou Joe's Marina and Grill: You can grab a bite to eat at Bayou Joe's Marina and Grill, which is located along the St. Andrew Bay in Panama City Beach. This restaurant offers casual dining and features some of the best seafood in the area. It's the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs while enjoying a delicious lunch.

  2. The Olde Dixie Fried Chicken: If you're looking for some southern comfort food, then you need to stop at The Olde Dixie Fried Chicken. This restaurant is located in Live Oak, Florida, and serves up some of the best fried chicken and sweet potato pie in the region. Be prepared to wait a bit as this place is famous and always busy.

Final Thoughts

This road trip from Alys Beach, Florida, to Ormond Beach, Florida, is filled with incredible attractions, natural wonders, and local cuisine. We hope this list of the top places to stop on your journey gives you some inspiration for your road trip. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey, and don't forget to snap some photos along the way!