From the No.1 Florida Specialist  |
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro toFlorida holidays,there’s always new advice to take on board. After two decades of championing the Sunshine State, we're still in awe at endless opportunities for adventure. Though we have learnt a few things along the way about how to maximise your stay. That's why, as part of our20th anniversary celebrations,we've curated our top 20 tips for planning an unforgettable Florida trip...When is Best to Visit?It’s not called the Sunshine State for nothing - Florida enjoys a year-round tropical climate, so don’t forget to pack that sunscreen. Spring is generally considered the best time of year to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant warmth, while summer is more humid with thunderstorms like clockwork most afternoons. Autumn remains warm but comfortable - just be aware of the hurricane season that begins from around mid-August to the end of October. Winter is ‘cooler’ but still gloriously sunny, plus there are loads of amazing holiday events!
Moreover, the best time to visit depends upon your type of holiday. For example, if you are visiting a domestic tourist hub like Orlando, you might want to consider visiting in January or February - before the 'Spring Break' and Easter crowds arrive.There’s More to Orlando than RollercoastersIt may be famous for its world-class theme parks and attractions, but Orlando has much more to offer. Immerse yourself in its beautiful surrounding nature by taking an exhilarating airboat ride in Boggy Creek, wandering the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, or making a snappy visit to Gatorland to get up close to the state’s most famous toothsome residents. | |
 |
\t\t\t\tBook Attraction Tickets AheadSave money and time by pre-booking your tickets, whether it’s for parks, experiences or shows. It is often much cheaper to purchase tickets before you travel; your queueing time may be greatly reduced, and it ensures you don’t end up disappointed or missing out on the popular experiences that get booked up quickly.Plan Your Park DaysThe bigger theme parks atWalt Disney World ResortandUniversal Orlando Resortwill often take more than a day to explore, so it’s always a good idea to have a rough plan in place. Head for your favourite rides early to minimise queueing time and make the most of flexible tickets such as Disney Magic Tickets, which offer unlimited park hopping at any time during open hours.
What's more, when staying on-site at Walt Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando Resort, you can enjoy early park access before the general public (up to 30 minutes and 1 hour respectively). So, if you really want to experience as many of the big attractions as possible, it's an important benefit to consider.Comfortable ClothingTraversing the parks can be a sweaty business, so be sure to wear light clothing that easily dries if you’re on water-based attractions - especially if you're visitingSeaWorld. Ponchos are often a sound investment! And, it goes without saying that comfortable shoes are a must because there will be a LOT of walking – just think of that impressive daily step count to get you through it. | |
\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t |
\t\t\t\tDownload the My Disney Experience AppOne of our biggest tips for Florida holiday travel is to download theMy Disney Experience App, particularly if you’ve booked the Disney Dining Package. This app will prove invaluable for ordering and paying for meals on the go, reserving tables and avoiding more dreaded queues when you’re hungry and hot!Research Accommodation TypesThere are pros and cons to all types of Florida accommodation, which includes villas, condos, and hundreds of hotels from budget to luxury. Larger groups favour villas as they offer privacy, value for money and a home-from-home feeling, whereas hotels allow you to indulge a little more with having food and drink, and resort amenities and facilities on tap.
You can read more about the great debate between Orlando villa or hotel holidays in our dedicated guide.Perks of Disney Hotel StaysIf you opt to stay in one of theDisney Resort Hotelsyou’ll receive loads of benefits including Early Theme Park Entry, Disney shuttle transportation to all the parks and water parks, free parking within the resort, early access to dining reservations, character dining experiences, and of course proximity to the parks, as well as a host of fantastic bonuses that truly make it a holiday of a lifetime.
Yet it’s a quality we can’t define that makes staying on-site so special. From sleeping in themed bedrooms to waking up for breakfast with beloved film characters – you’ve seen all the Disney fairytales, now you simply must live one to feel the true magic of Walt Disney World. | |
\t\t\t\t |
\t\t\t\tAre Rental Cars Essential?It depends on where you stay and whether you plan on discovering more of Florida outside of Orlando. If you’re in villa accommodation a rental car will be both convenient and economical, however, there are also somevilla resorts– such as Encore Club at Reunion – that offer free shuttle services to major attractions.
On-site Universal and Disney hotels provide in-resort complimentary shuttle services as standard. And Florida’s Amtrak rail service is also an option for travelling around the state, but it lacks the freedom to go exactly where you want, when you want.
The good news is that reasonable car hire prices have returned, now that demand is back and stocks have been replenished post the pandemic.Explore State Parks and Natural WondersWe all know about Florida’s hundreds of miles of sandy coastline and its world-renowned theme parks, but head inland to discover a world of beauty and charm. From leafy state parks to invigorating natural freshwater springs for picnicking, kayaking, tubing, swimming, and snorkelling, there is plenty to enjoy here absorbed in the tranquillity of nature.
We recommend Florida’s Everglades National Park, where you can venture through wetlands, forests and waterways and say hi to the State’s most famous resident, the alligator - as well as another notable native, the Florida Panther. Or, for something a little bit different, descend into the mystical caves of Cavens State Park, located in theFlorida Panhandle.Think Multi-CentresOrlando may be the Theme Park Capital of the World, but it lacks one of Florida’s most loved commodities: beaches. And frankly, falling in love with Florida a place at a time lets you experience the true splendour of the Sunshine State.
Consider a day or two trip to the Gulf Coast gems such as St. Petersburg or Clearwater, offering miles of powder-white sands that fringe the flawless waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Further afield are the exquisite Florida Keys, the vibrant city of Miami and the sophisticated town of Naples to the south, while up north are the stunning beaches and coastal regions of the Panhandle – all easily accessible within a few hours’ drive on aFlorida multi centre holiday. | |
\t\t\t\t |
\t\t\t\tDon’t Underestimate Florida’s SizeIf you’re planning to explore the state then take note of the major routes and check distances and times before embarking on a road trip. Orlando is well placed in Central Florida, but it takes around four hours or more to get down toMiamiand the start of theKeys, while the beaches in thePanhandleare over six hours to the north.Flexible Flight DestinationsOrlando alone has three international airports offering both charter and scheduled flights, but there are many airports across the state including Tampa, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Sarasota/Bradenton and more, which serve a wide range of international and domestic destinations for exploring the state as well as the wider US and beyond.Time DifferenceFlorida is five hours behind the UK. Outbound flights will often leave in the morning so it’s late afternoon when you arrive, while inbound flights are predominantly overnight. Take advantage of those early morning wakeups during your first few days to get to the parks promptly or to get a decent sunbed spot by the pool!Stock Up on Insect RepellentIt will come as no surprise that due to Florida’s tropical climate, there is an abundance of nibbling little bugs ready to feast on your delicious British skin. Keep the sprays and creams close to hand, mainly in the early mornings and evenings in the hotter months, and especially near bodies of water, of which there are many in Florida like pools, swamps, and lakes!Luggage SpaceIf you’re planning on visiting Orlando’s excellent outlet malls or want to collect a world of souvenirs from your favourite parks, keep some extra luggage space free. Also, we’re not saying you’ll need to buy another suitcase for all your wares, but it has been known to happen!
PS. When you book a Florida holiday with us you getup to five free experiences worth up to \\$549*. | |
\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t |
\t\t\t\tWhat to EatFlorida is an absolute gastronomic delight. From fine dining restaurants in its top hotels, freshly caught seafood along the endless coastline or authentic Cuban flavours in Miami’s street food scene - there’s something to tantalise the tastebuds everywhere you turn. And most importantly, there's food for every budget. Even a simple Mickey Pretzel delivers. Just make sure to do your research and book ahead if there’s an eatery you really want to visit, as the popular hangouts fill up fast.Keep Your ID on YouYou may believe that your days of being ID’d are behind you, but it’s wise to keep it close to hand when going anywhere that serves alcohol. Florida is very strict and even though you may look far beyond 21, you could still be asked to show your proof of age before entering a licenced venue.Try Not to Do EverythingThere’s so much to see and do in Florida that one or two weeks barely covers the surface, so don’t try to cram too much in and burn yourselves out. Think about what you want from your Florida trip, adrenaline-fuelled rollercoaster action, sun-soaked days by the sea, nightlife in the cities, or lush nature adventures. All of the above? Pick your ultimate activities and plan from there.Book SafelyIt goes without saying to book your trip with a reputable travel company such as Ocean Florida for everything, including accommodation, car hire, and attraction tickets. Not only will you be covered by all the relevant insurances like ATOL and TTA, but you get unmatched expertise and service from start to finish.
Don’t forget, our travel experts can give you the low-down on everything and anything you need to know before youbook your next Florida holiday for 2024 and 2025– get in touch and let’s get planning! | |
\t\t\t\t
 |  |
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t | BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE | |
| Book as far
ahead as 2026 |  | As an independent travel company, we can offer you packages up to 36-months in
advance. |
Spread The Cost
Of Your Holiday |  | Increased flexibility to spread
the cost of your holiday
before you
depart. |
| |
| Award Winning
Company |  | | We're proud to have been named Best Holiday Company to the USA three years in a row. |
24/7
Support |  | Contact our team in the US or the UK in case of any
emergency 24/7 |
| |
\t\t\t\t\t\t | ATOL & TTA
Protection |  | | When you book with Ocean Florida, your holiday and your money is 100% secure. |
5 Star
Reviews |  | | We’re very proud to receive daily 5-star reviews for both our service and our holidays. |
| |
|
Terms & Conditions
All offers are subject to availability and can be withdrawn at any time.
*Choose your Ocean Explorer (Free Orlando activities) is valid on all new Orlando bookings made between 27th December 2023 to 31st January 2024, and departing from 27th December 2023 to 31st December 2025, and is available for each person on the booking. You must specify your choice from five Ocean Explorer options: Entertainment, Wildlife, Adventure, Classic, and Foodie at the time of booking. Each option includes different attractions, please ask for further details or visit our website for more information. \\$549 saving is based on a family of 4 selecting the Wildlife Explorer and values vary. This offer is run by Ocean Holidays, who reserve the right to cancel or amend the promotion and terms and conditions at any time without notice. | | |
|
|
|
|
|
