Getting around in Florida

It is possible to get between and around Florida's pristine coastlines, swampy lagoons and big-time cities.

The sprawl of Florida makes it a car-centered place, but there are many other ways to explore the state. If you want to explore the state's vast terrain, you can either hop on a plane, train, or water taxi.

There is a way to get around Florida.

Arrive in Florida by plane at one its 131 airports

Chances are you will be flying in if you are visiting Florida from another country. The state has 131 public airports, of which there are 24 international ones.

There are several airlines that provide flights within Florida.

Major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas can cause major congestion and longer wait times at Florida's airports as northern residents escape the cold.

Crisscross Florida north to south by train

Florida has a lot of passenger train service. The Silver Meteor route goes from Jacksonville to Central Florida and then south along the Atlantic Coast to Miami. The Silver Star route has 18 stops in Florida, starting in Jacksonville and ending in Miami.

It is possible to start or end an East Coast train adventure in Florida with the auto train. You can take your car or motorcycle on this overnight route. Don't fret, you can relax in the dining and lounge cars instead of sitting in your car all day.

Brightline is a high-speed passenger rail system that connects West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami within an hour. The stations located in the heart of each destination's downtown make this a great option for shaving some time off a trip. There are plans to add stations at PortMiami, Aventura, and Boca Raton as well as a future expansion north toOrlando.

There are two commuter rail systems in the state. There are 18 stations in South Florida that run from north of West Palm Beach to Miami International Airport. Local bus routes can be found at several stations. Miami International Airport has a stop for Tri- Rail. SunRail provides an easy way to explore all that Central Florida has to offer, with 18 stations that run from DeBary south to the Poinciana station.

It’s hard to resist the pleasure of traveling in Florida by boat

There are white-sand beaches and turquoise waters in Florida. Jacksonville is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, with easy transportation connections to nearby towns. Trips can last from a weekend to several weeks in the Caribbean, Mexico and beyond.

There are a number of ferry and water taxi options within Florida. The Yankee Freedom III ferry in Key West is the only public transportation option for accessing the seven islands of Dry Tortugas National Park, which is 70 miles off the coast of the Florida Keys.

Water taxis are popular in some areas. St. John's River Taxi, the Pirate Water Taxi, the Naples Bay Water Shuttle, and Fort Lauderdale's Water Taxi all offer water taxis.

Private charter and boat rentals are also available. Extra charges for a captain's services, crew, gasoline, overnight dockage, and more can be applied. When you return to land, you want to sort out as many fees as possible.

Hit the open road to discover Florida by car

State Road A1A, which hugs the Atlantic Ocean from Fernandina Beach all the way down to Key West, is one of Florida's roads. The stretch of I-75 between Miami and Naples is one of the major interstates that has to be paid for. If you are renting a car, consider renting a tag as toll booths are no longer a thing.

Those over the age of 21 can rent a car in the state. There will be a surcharge for people under 25. All car renters in Florida must have a valid driver license from their state or country of residence in order to rent a car. Taxis and ride-share companies are available throughout the state if you don't want to drive.

Several towns and regions in Florida have their own transportation systems. One of its main streets has an automated self-driving system. Clearwater's Jolley Trolley is one of the Trolleys in the state of Florida.

Buses are a great option for exploring beyond a single town or region. Greyhound and other operators offer routes within the state.

From October through April, traffic will be heavier than usual. When people from colder places come to Florida for the winter, it is known as "snowbird season".

Road trips in Florida.

Accessible transportation in Florida

Those with accessibility needs will find Florida very accommodating. Activities and resources are plentiful throughout the state. International travelers can buy a disabled parking pass for fifteen dollars.

The article was first published about a year ago.