Florida is your golden ticket to world-famous theme parks, scorching sunshine, and beaches you’ll never want to leave.
Highlights of your holidays to Florida 2026 and 2027
Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, including Universal's newest park, Epic Universe – the undisputed world capital of family fun, and there's more to ride every time you go back.
Kennedy Space Center – stand under a real Saturn V and the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and on the right day watch a rocket launch from the Space Coast.
825 miles of beaches, from the buzzing shores of South Beach to the sugar-white sand of Clearwater.
A food scene that goes way beyond burgers – fresh stone crab, Cuban sandwiches in Little Havana and key lime pie that'll change your life.
Wild Florida – airboats and alligators in the Everglades, and manatees in the springs in winter.
Good To Know - Florida Travel Essentials
Flight Time - 9 to 10 hours direct from London or Manchester to Orlando (MCO), Miami (MIA), or Tampa (TPA).
Currency - US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted everywhere from theme park snack stands to beachfront bars.
Best Beach - Clearwater Beach on the Gulf Coast - famous for sugar-white sand and calm, shallow waters.
Theme Park Tip - booking hotel packages that include early park admission or Express Passes can save you hours of queuing at Universal and Disney.
Fun Fact - Florida has more than 1,300 miles of coastline and is the only place on Earth where alligators and crocodiles coexist in the wild (hello, Everglades!).
Local Lingo – Talk Like a Floridian
Visiting Florida? The Sunshine State has some phrases and slang you’ll want to know to fit in like a local:
“The Keys” – refers to the Florida Keys, a chain of islands off the southern tip. Don’t just say “the islands,” or you’ll get blank stares!
"The 305" - Miami’s iconic local area code, often used as slang for the city itself.
"The Turnpike" / "I-4" - the main highways connecting Miami to Orlando (the Turnpike) and Tampa to Daytona through Orlando (I-4). You’ll hear locals talking about these constantly when discussing drive times.
“Beach day” – this isn’t just any outing – it’s an all-day affair of sunbathing, swimming, and maybe a cold drink or two.
"No-See-Ums" - the local nickname for tiny, harmless midges that appear near coastal areas around dusk. Pack a quick spray of bug repellent, and you're sorted.
“Boating” – pretty much everyone in Florida has a love for boats. If someone invites you to go boating, expect a day on the water, fishing, or cruising along the coast.
“Hurricane season” – June to November. Locals are chill but prepared. Know this term so you don’t get caught off guard.
"Snowbirds" - Northern US retirees who drive south to live in Florida for the winter months to soak up the sun.
“Citrus” – Florida oranges are legendary. You’ll hear locals talking about citrus groves or fresh-squeezed OJ everywhere you go.
Knowing these will have you sounding like a Floridian in no time, from Miami beaches to the Keys!
Florida Holidays are Perfect for You If...
The kids have been asking about Disney World for three straight years, and you've finally decided this is the year you make it happen.
You want theme parks, white-sand beaches, and a proper city break - and you refuse to pick just one.
Nine hours on a plane feels completely justified when the reward is Universal Orlando, South Beach cocktails, and a slice of key lime pie that ruins all other desserts forever.
You're after a long-haul trip with direct UK flights, zero language barriers, and weather that stays reliably warm all year long.
A week of high-energy theme parks in Orlando, followed by a few days on the Gulf Coast doing absolutely nothing, sounds like a 10/10 itinerary.
Miami nightlife, Everglades airboat rides, and watching the sunset at Key West are all on the same travel wishlist - and you've already started packing.
Where to stay on holidays in Florida 2026 and 2027: Area & Region Guide
Florida is massive, and choosing where to set up camp depends on whether you're chasing theme park thrills, Miami glamour, or tranquil Gulf Coast sunsets.
Orlando & International Drive: Theme Parks & Endless Fun
The beating heart of family holidays. Staying along International Drive or near the main resort gates puts you minutes from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld, surrounded by endless dining and factory outlets.
Ideal for - families, big groups, and thrill-seekers who want theme park magic on their doorstep.
Explore the area - browse our latest Orlando holiday deals and park hotel packages.
Miami & South Beach: Art Deco, Glamour & Ocean Drives
Lively, stylish, and drenched in sunshine, Miami combines world-famous beaches with Art Deco architecture, high-end shopping, and a nightlife scene that runs till sunrise.
Ideal for - couples, groups, and culture lovers who want a vibrant city-meets-beach break.
Explore the area - check out our handpicked Miami holidays.
Fort Lauderdale & The Gold Coast: Yacht Canals & Golden Sands
Known as the "Venice of America" thanks to its intricate canal network, Fort Lauderdale offers a more relaxed alternative to Miami with upscale shopping, waterfront dining, and wide golden beaches.
Ideal for - couples, families wanting a chilled pace, and multi-centre road-trippers.
Explore the area - discover our top-rated Fort Lauderdale holidays.
Gulf Coast (Clearwater, St. Pete & Fort Myers): Pure Beach Bliss
Facing the Gulf of Mexico, the West Coast of Florida is famous for powder-soft white sand, shallow turquoise waters, and spectacular sunsets that turn the sky pink every evening.
Ideal for - families with young kids, relaxed beach days, and combining with an Orlando park stay.
Explore the area - find your dream beach holiday with our Gulf Coast hotel deals, including Fort Myers holidays.
What are the best beaches to head to on your Florida holidays?
The Sunshine State is home to 825 miles of beaches and several cities built around them. We bet you've heard of some of these big names before, but there are plenty of quieter spots to discover too.
Daytona Beach – the world’s most famous beach, with 23 miles of sandy coast packed with attractions, plus some major motorsports events.
Siesta Beach – picture-perfect and award-winning, Siesta’s soft sands are perfect for a day of sunbathing, followed by a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park – pristine sands and incredible views make this beach a favourite for relaxing, walking, and cycling.
Cocoa Beach Pier – the perfect place for all the family to take surfing lessons, or just watch the pros from the historical boardwalk.
Shell Island – for a true getaway, this undeveloped barrier island offers nothing but nature and peace - ideal for unwinding.
What are the top hotels for your holidays to Florida?
Whether you want to stay right where the action is or enjoy some laid-back luxury, Florida's hotel game is mega. Here are our top picks for package holidays to Florida, or browse all our Florida hotels:
👨👩👧👦 Which are the best family hotels in Florida?
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge - Wake up to zebras and giraffes right outside your window. It's inside Walt Disney World, with savannahs right outside the rooms, themed pools and African-inspired restaurants. Pure magic for the kids.
DoubleTree Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando - Sitting directly opposite the entrance to Universal Orlando, this family-friendly spot keeps you right in the thick of the action. Outdoor pool, great dining options and those famous warm cookies on arrival. Universal thrills + cookies = winning combo.
Floridays Resort - Two and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens, a short hop from the parks on International Drive, so everyone gets their own space and breakfast costs what the supermarket charges. The lead guest needs to be 21 or over. Very well reviewed.
Universal's Endless Summer Resort - Dockside Inn & Suites - A brilliant value option right within Universal Orlando Resort. Two-bedroom suites sleep up to six. There are two pools, a splash pad, and you get early park admission and free shuttles to the parks.
💑 Which are the best hotels in Florida for couples?
Waldorf Astoria Orlando - Pure luxury overlooking a winding creek and a championship golf course. The Waldorf Astoria Spa, a pool with private cabanas and the Bull & Bear steakhouse make this a five-star treat for a couple's holiday you won't forget.
1 Hotel South Beach - A stunning five-star on the sand in Miami Beach, with oceanside pools, a rooftop bar and a sustainability ethos that runs through everything. Proper boujee.
Kimpton Surfcomber - A restored Art Deco hotel right on the beach in South Beach, steps from Ocean Drive, with a pool facing the sea. Very well reviewed, and a brilliant base for a beach holiday with the nightlife on the doorstep.
Rosen Shingle Creek - A big, smart resort with a championship golf course, a full-service spa and separate pools for relaxing or playing. If you want to pair theme park days with properly luxurious evenings, this is your spot.
✨ Which are the best luxury hotels in Florida?
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa - Disney's flagship, a Victorian-style resort on the Seven Seas Lagoon with the monorail to Magic Kingdom at the door and the fireworks over the water at night.
Fontainebleau Miami Beach - An icon of Miami glamour with over ten pools, world-class restaurants and a nightclub on site. Beachfront location, cabanas by the sand and an adults-only party pool. This is Miami at its most fabulous.
💰 Which are the best-value hotels in Florida?
Drury Inn & Suites Near Universal Orlando Resort - A free hot breakfast every morning and an evening reception with snacks and drinks included, a few minutes from Universal. One of the best-reviewed hotels in Orlando, and it keeps the daily spend right down.
Universal's Endless Summer Resort - Surfside Inn & Suites - A surf-themed value hotel within Universal Orlando Resort. Family-friendly two-bedroom suites, outdoor pool, fitness centre and those all-important early park admission perks and free park shuttles.
Cheap holidays to Florida 2026 and 2027
Cheap Florida holidays 2026 and 2027 are more doable than people think, because the big costs are easy to see coming. Whatever the budget for your holiday, Florida 2026 and 2027 dates are on sale now, and when you book with On the Beach, a low deposit holds the price while you sort the rest. Here are our top tips to keep the price lower than a gator doing the limbo.
Stay just outside the parks. International Drive and Kissimmee are full of good-value hotels and villa-style resorts a short drive from Disney and Universal, with restaurants and supermarkets on the doorstep.
Pick a hotel that feeds you. A free breakfast, or a suite with a kitchen, takes a real bite out of the daily spend.
Book park tickets before you fly. It's cheaper than buying at the gate, and it means you know the biggest cost before you land.
Budget for the extras. Prices are shown before sales tax, many hotels add a resort fee, and tipping is expected in restaurants. None of it is a surprise if you plan for it.
Two of our favourite value picks for cheaper holidays, Florida 2026 and 2027:
Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a retro, fifties-style resort inside Universal Orlando, with a lazy river, family suites and walking paths to the parks. Very well reviewed, with a huge number of happy families behind that score.
Rosen Inn Closest to Universal is a straightforward, good-value base on International Drive, with a seasonally heated pool and a games room, and Universal a few minutes away.
Florida holidays 2026 and 2027 travel guide
👨👩👧👦 What are the best things to do in Florida with the family?
If there is one place that has absolutely nailed family holidays, it is Florida. It is practically the world capital of "best holiday ever", with enough magic, thrills and sunshine to keep the kiddos (and the grown-ups) buzzing for weeks.
Walt Disney World - the ultimate bucket-list ticker. Meet the big cheese himself, ride the classics and watch the fireworks pop. Book early park entry where your hotel includes it and you'll beat the queues.
Universal Orlando Resort - from sipping Butterbeer in Hogsmeade to causing chaos with Minions, this place delivers the goods.
Clearwater Beach - expect sugar-white sands and shallow waters that are perfect for younger swimmers and sandcastle architects.
Everglades National Park - swap the theme parks for the swamps on a wild airboat ride to spot real-life gators.
💑 What are the best things to do in Florida for couples?
Florida might be famous for mouse ears and rollercoasters, but it is also a top-tier spot for romance. Whether you want boujee spa days or sunset cocktails, the Sunshine State brings all the love you could ever want for your next couples' holiday...
South Beach, Miami - spend the day topping up the tan before hitting the town for a swanky night out.
St. Augustine - wander the cobblestone streets of the oldest city in the US for major historic vibes.
Wynwood, Miami - a whole neighbourhood of street-art murals, galleries and craft-beer bars. Go late afternoon and stay for dinner.
Key West sunsets - head to Mallory Square with a drink in hand to watch the sun dip. Pure Insta-feed fodder.
🎉 What is there to do in Florida for groups?
Gather the squad, because holidays to Florida are unbeatable for a group getaway. From screaming your lungs out on world-class coasters to partying in Miami, there is zero chance of anyone getting bored.
VelociCoaster at Islands of Adventure - braving it together is the ultimate bonding experience. Scream if you want to go faster!
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - a whopper of a day out mixing white-knuckle thrill rides with incredible animal encounters.
Cocoa Beach - get active with some surf lessons or rent a boat for a day of jet-skiing action.
Miami nightlife - South Beach is the place to be for cocktails and dancing until the sun comes up.
🍽️ What is there to eat in Florida for foodies?
Foodies, rejoice! The Florida food scene is absolutely sizzling with flavours from all over the globe. Forget just burgers and fries; we're talking fresh seafood, spicy Cuban beats and sweet treats that are 100% worth the calories.
Little Havana - this Miami neighbourhood is the king of Cuban cuisine. Grab a Cubano sandwich and a strong coffee.
Disney Springs - a total haven for food lovers, offering everything from fancy sit-down meals to quirky food trucks.
Key lime pie - you cannot leave Florida without trying a slice of this zesty, creamy, biscuit-based masterpiece.
Fresh stone crab - in season from mid-October to early May, and best at a seafood shack on the coast.
Other places to visit on your Florida holidays:
Popular Florida hotels
More Florida hotelsStunning Florida resorts
Weather in Florida
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Summer in the Sunshine State is exactly what it sounds like – a scorcher, with the mercury chilling at a sizzling 30°C to 33°C. But no sweat, Florida's got the cool factor sorted. Those arvo rain showers are like the mate who pops by for a quick hello, then scoots off, leaving you to soak up the beach vibes.
Then there's autumn, or as we like to call it, Florida's way of giving us a cheeky nod. Things mellow out to a lush 25°C to 30°C. It's the bangin' sweet spot for conquering theme parks without turning into a human lollipop, or catching a sunset that doesn't demand you bundle up. Florida's weather? It's the ultimate wingman, setting the scene for your holibobs.
Winter, though? It's the hidden gem, the secret season where Florida struts its stuff while the rest of the place is digging out scarves. With temps hanging out at a comfy 15°C to 25°C, you can live the dream with beach days in January or sneak in a round of golf without the frostbite. Heading south in the winter is a top-tier move for those chasing the sunshine.
And let's natter about spring – it's like Florida's serving up a sunny grin, with the thermostat playing it cool between 20°C and 30°C. Whether you're here for the outdoor bashes or just fancy a leisurely wander, spring in Florida is a mahoosive thumbs up.
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Florida?
How long does it take to fly to Florida?
Direct flights from the UK to Florida take between 8 hours 45 minutes and 10 hours, depending on your departure airport and destination within the state. Florida is large, and flight times vary slightly between cities.
Typical direct flight times:
London Gatwick/Heathrow → Orlando: approx. 9–9h 30m
London → Miami: approx. 9h 30m–10h
Manchester → Orlando: approx. 9h–9h 30m
Airlines including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, TUI Airways and Norse Atlantic operate direct routes.
Connecting flights (via cities like New York, Atlanta or Dublin) usually take 11–14 hours total, depending on your layover.
Airports:
Orlando International (MCO) - best for theme parks
Miami International (MIA) - best for beaches and city breaks
Tampa International (TPA) - best for Gulf Coast resorts
Overnight flights are common, meaning you can sleep on board and arrive ready to start your holiday.
What’s the time difference between the UK and Florida?
What’s the time difference between the UK and Florida?
Florida operates on Eastern Time (ET) - either Eastern Standard Time (EST, UTC-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT, UTC-4).
Because both the UK and the US observe daylight saving time (but change on different dates), the time difference can briefly shift.
Most of the year:
Florida is 5 hours behind the UK
Short transition periods (March & October/November):
The difference can be 4 hours for a couple of weeks
Example:
2pm in London = 9am in Florida
Jet lag is noticeable on arrival, especially with morning landings, but most travellers adjust within a few days.
What currency do they use in Florida?
What currency do they use in Florida?
Florida uses the US Dollar (USD) $.
Notes: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢ (quarters are widely used)
What UK travellers should know:
Cards:
Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere; Amex is also widely accepted in the US
Contactless:
Common, but chip-and-PIN or signature may still be required
Cash:
Useful for tipping, small purchases and toll roads
ATMs:
Widely available
Before you go:
You can buy US dollars in the UK, unlike closed currencies
Important: Prices in shops and restaurants are shown before sales tax (typically 6–7.5% depending on county), so the final amount at checkout will be slightly higher.
What language do they speak in Florida?
What language do they speak in Florida?
The primary language in Florida is English, and you’ll have no issues communicating anywhere as a UK traveller.
However, Florida, particularly cities like Miami, is highly multicultural.
Languages you’ll hear:
English:
Used everywhere in tourism, transport and business
Spanish:
Very widely spoken, especially in South Florida
Haitian Creole:
Common in parts of Miami
In most tourist areas, staff are bilingual, and signage is often in both English and Spanish.
Why is Florida good for a holiday?
Why is Florida good for a holiday?
Florida is one of the most popular long-haul destinations for travellers from the UK & Ireland because it does theme parks, beaches, nature and big-city fun brilliantly.
World-famous theme parks: Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and more.
Beaches: from the Atlantic coast to the Gulf of Mexico, white sand, warm water and sunshine all year.
Weather: warm in every month.
Shopping: outlet malls and big retail centres with competitive prices.
Wildlife: Everglades National Park, manatees, dolphins and alligators.
It works equally well for families, couples and groups.
Do I need to hire a car in Florida?
Do I need to hire a car in Florida?
In most cases - yes, hiring a car is strongly recommended.
Florida is a large, spread-out state, and public transport is limited outside a few city areas.
When you’ll need a car:
Staying in a villa or off-site accommodation
Visiting multiple parks in Orlando
Exploring beyond your resort (shopping malls, restaurants, beaches)
Travelling between cities (e.g. Orlando to Miami)
When you might not need one:
Staying in an on-site Disney or Universal hotel (transport included)
Booking a package with transfers and guided excursions
Good to know:
Driving is on the right-hand side
Automatic cars are standard
Parking is widely available (often paid at theme parks and hotels)
Tolls are common, check if your rental includes a toll pass
What is the deal with tipping in Florida?
What is the deal with tipping in Florida?
Tipping in Florida and across the US is expected and part of everyday culture, not optional.
Typical tipping guidelines:
Restaurants (table service):
18–22% of the bill
Bars:
$1–$2 per drink or 15–20%
Taxis/Uber:
10–20%
Hotel housekeeping:
$2–$5 per night
Valet parking:
$2–$5 when collecting your car
Important:
Tips are a major part of workers’ income
Some restaurants automatically add a “gratuity”(especially for larger groups), check your bill before tipping extra
If service is good, tipping at the higher end is standard.
What's the best time to visit Florida?
What's the best time to visit Florida?
Florida is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on weather, crowds and price.
Best overall time:
March to May - warm temperatures, lower humidity, fewer crowds than peak summer
Season by season:
December–April (dry season):
Warm, sunny, low humidity
Temperatures: 20–28°C
Peak tourist season (especially Christmas, New Year, Easter)
May–September (summer):
Hot and humid (28–34°C)
Afternoon thunderstorms common
Best for water parks and beach weather
June–November (hurricane season):
Peak risk: August–October
Storms are usually short-lived but can disrupt travel
Best months for UK travellers:
March, April, May, October
Is Florida good for a holiday with kids?
Is Florida good for a holiday with kids?
Florida is one of the best family holiday destinations in the world.
Why it works so well for families:
Theme parks: Walt Disney World, Universal, SeaWorld and LEGOLAND Florida
Accommodation choice: Villas with private pools, family resorts, themed hotels
Child-friendly infrastructure: Restaurants, attractions and transport designed for families
Entertainment beyond parks: Water parks, beaches, wildlife parks, airboat rides
Good to know:
Distances are large - plan rest days between park visits
Queue times can be long - consider skip-the-line passes
Summer heat can be intense for younger children
For families, Orlando is usually the main base, often combined with a beach stay.
How much spending money do I need for Florida?
How much spending money do I need for Florida?
Spending money for Florida varies depending on your travel style, but it’s generally more expensive than many European destinations.
Rough daily budget (per person):
Budget: $70–$100
Mid-range: $100–$180
Higher-end: $180+
Typical costs:
Meal at casual restaurant: $15–$25
Theme park food: $20–$30 per meal
Beer: $6–$9
Coffee: $4–$6
Theme park tickets: $100–$180 per day
Extra costs to factor in:
Tips (18–22%)
Sales tax (added at checkout)
Car hire, fuel and parking
Park extras (fast passes, experiences, souvenirs)
For a 2-week holiday:
Many UK travellers budget $1,200–$2,000 per person excluding major pre-paid costs
Florida can be done on a budget, but most visitors find costs add up quickly, especially with theme parks and dining out.
What's included in package holidays to Florida?
What's included in package holidays to Florida?
Package holidays to Florida put your flights and hotel in one booking, so there's one price, one confirmation and a low deposit to hold it. Most people book a week or two in Orlando, from on-site Disney stays like Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge to value hotels on International Drive. Browse all our Florida hotels to compare.
