Setting Sail from Florida's Cruise Ports: The Ultimate Guide

Hey cruise lovers! Did you know Florida has SEVEN different ports you can sail from? That's right – seven! I discovered this when planning my first Caribbean getaway and was totally overwhelmed by all the options. Miami or Fort Lauderdale? Tampa or Jacksonville? What's the deal with Port Canaveral anyway?

After five cruises (and counting!) from various Florida ports, I've learned each one has its own personality and perks. So I've put together this guide to help you figure out which Florida port matches your cruise style. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, let's find your perfect jumping-off point for adventure!

Florida: The Heart of the Cruise Industry

It's difficult to overstate Florida's importance to the cruise industry. Modern cruising was born here, and many cruise ships call Florida home year-round. Even vessels that sail elsewhere throughout the year often return to Florida during winter months, attracting vacationers eager to escape colder climates.

The state's "Big Three" cruise ports—PortMiami, Port Canaveral, and Port Everglades—are constantly expanding to meet growing demand, constructing new berths and terminals while renovating existing facilities. Though these ports compete with each other, they share the common goal of keeping as many cruise ships as possible based in Florida.

Let's explore each of Florida's seven cruise ports and discover what makes them unique destinations for beginning your cruise adventure.

1. PortMiami: "The Cruise Capital of the World"

Location: Miami, FL

As the self-proclaimed "Cruise Capital of the World," PortMiami welcomed more than 8.2 million cruisers in 2024 through its 11 cruise terminals. Its prime location places passengers just minutes from Miami's vibrant attractions.

Cruise Lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line

• Royal Caribbean International

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

• MSC Cruises

• Virgin Voyages

• Oceania Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

• Celebrity Cruises

Parking Information:

• Multiple on-site parking garages adjacent to cruise terminals

• Current rates: Approximately $22 per day for standard vehicles

• Pre-paid parking available through PortMiami's official website

• ADA accessible parking available in all garages

• Oversized vehicles (RVs, buses) have designated areas at higher rates

• Valet parking available at select terminals for premium rates

Nearby Attractions:

• South Beach: Iconic beaches and vibrant nightlife

• Bayside Marketplace: Waterfront shopping and dining

• Little Havana: Authentic Cuban culture and cuisine

• Jungle Island: Family-friendly wildlife attraction

• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Historic estate with stunning Italian Renaissance gardens

• Wynwood Walls: Open-air street art museum in Miami's arts district

• Pérez Art Museum Miami: Contemporary art museum with waterfront views

• Frost Science Museum: Interactive science museum with planetarium and aquarium

2. Port Canaveral: "Florida's Fun Port"

Location: Cape Canaveral, FL

Located about 45 miles east of Orlando, Port Canaveral served 7.6 million passengers in 2024 through its seven terminals. Its proximity to Orlando's theme parks and Kennedy Space Center makes it an ideal starting point for combining a cruise with a land-based vacation.

Cruise Lines:

• Disney Cruise Line

• Carnival Cruise Line

• Royal Caribbean International

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

• MSC Cruises

Parking Information:

• Dedicated parking garages and surface lots at each cruise terminal

• Current rates: Approximately $17 per day for standard vehicles

• Convenient curbside drop-off areas at all terminals

• Free shuttle service between some parking areas and terminals

• Secured, well-lit 24/7 monitored facilities

• Pre-book parking online through Port Canaveral's official site for guaranteed space

• Off-site private parking options available at lower rates with shuttle service

Nearby Attractions:

• Kennedy Space Center: NASA's launch headquarters and visitor complex

• Cocoa Beach: Famous surfing destination with a relaxed atmosphere

• Exploration Tower: Seven-story attraction with panoramic views

• Brevard Zoo: Interactive animal experiences

• Walt Disney World: World-famous theme parks about 45 minutes away

• Universal Orlando Resort: Thrilling theme parks featuring Harry Potter attractions

• Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Natural habitat with diverse wildlife viewing opportunities

• Jetty Park: Beach park with fishing pier and perfect cruise ship viewing

3. Port Everglades: "The Powerhouse Port"

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale handled about 4 million passengers through its eight terminals in 2024. Of Florida's three largest cruise ports, Port Everglades boasts the closest proximity to a major airport—just 3 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

Cruise Lines:

• Celebrity Cruises

• Holland America Line

• Princess Cruises

• Royal Caribbean International

• Carnival Cruise Line

• Silversea Cruises

Parking Information:

• Midport and Northport parking garages conveniently located near cruise terminals

• Current rates: Approximately $15 per day for standard vehicles

• Complimentary shuttle service between parking areas and more distant terminals

• Payment options include credit/debit cards and cash upon exit

• Height restrictions apply in garages (vehicles over 6'8" directed to surface lots)

• Pre-paid parking available through Port Everglades' website

• Several off-port private parking facilities with competitive rates and shuttle service

Nearby Attractions:

• Las Olas Boulevard: Upscale shopping and dining district

• Fort Lauderdale Beach: Beautiful beaches with a more relaxed vibe than Miami

• Everglades Tours: Explore Florida's unique ecosystem

• Museum of Discovery and Science: Interactive educational exhibits

• Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: Historic waterfront estate with art and gardens

• Flamingo Gardens: Botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary

• NSU Art Museum: Modern and contemporary art collection

• Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi: Scenic transportation along Fort Lauderdale's waterways

4. Port Tampa Bay: "Port of Possibilities"

Location: Tampa, FL

Port Tampa Bay offers cruisers a convenient alternative on Florida's west coast. With easy access from Tampa International Airport, this port provides a more relaxed embarkation experience than some of the busier east coast ports.

Cruise Lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line

• Royal Caribbean International

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

• MSC Cruises

• Margaritaville at Sea

Parking Information:

• Channelside Parking Garage directly across from cruise terminals

• Current rates: Approximately $15 per day for standard vehicles

• Convenient covered walkway connecting garage to terminals

• Payment can be made in advance or upon return

• Security personnel and CCTV monitoring 24/7

• ADA accessible spaces available on all levels

• Several nearby private parking options with shuttle service for budget-conscious travelers

• Book online at Port Tampa Bay's official parking page

Nearby Attractions:

• Tampa Riverwalk: 2.6-mile waterfront pathway with restaurants and attractions

• Florida Aquarium: Marine life exhibits and interactive experiences

• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Thrilling theme park with rides and animal encounters

• Ybor City: Historic district known for Cuban culture and lively nightlife

• ZooTampa at Lowry Park: Award-winning zoo with over 1,300 animals

• The Dali Museum: World's largest collection of Salvador Dali works outside Spain

• Clearwater Beach: Consistently ranked among America's best beaches

• Tampa Bay History Center: Interactive museum exploring Florida's history

5. Port of Jacksonville (JAXPORT): "Gateway to the Caribbean"

Location: Jacksonville, FL

JAXPORT offers cruises primarily to the Bahamas, making it a convenient option for residents of northeast Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina who prefer driving to their embarkation port rather than flying.

Cruise Lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Parking Information:

• On-site parking available at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal

• Current rates: Approximately $15 per day for standard vehicles

• Secure, fenced lot with 24-hour security

• No advance reservations required; first-come, first-served

• Payment methods include credit cards and cash

• Free passenger drop-off/pick-up area available

• No shuttle needed as parking is adjacent to the terminal

• For current parking information, visit JAXPORT's cruise parking page

Nearby Attractions:

• Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: Award-winning animal exhibits

• Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens: Art collections and riverfront gardens

• Amelia Island: Charming coastal community with pristine beaches

• Downtown Jacksonville: Riverfront entertainment district

• Kingsley Plantation: Historic site with one of Florida's oldest standing plantation houses

• Little Talbot Island State Park: Pristine barrier island with beaches and maritime forests

• Museum of Science & History (MOSH): Interactive exhibits on science, history, and innovation

• St. Augustine: America's oldest city is just a short drive south

6. Port of Palm Beach: "Small but Mighty"

Location: Riviera Beach, FL

The Port of Palm Beach is one of Florida's smaller cruise ports but offers convenient access to the Bahamas with short cruises perfect for first-timers or those seeking a quick getaway.

Cruise Lines:

• Margaritaville at Sea Paradise (formerly Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line)

Parking Information:

• On-site parking available directly at the cruise terminal

• Current rates: Approximately $19 per day for standard vehicles

• Secure, well-lit parking area with security surveillance

• No advance reservations needed

• Pay stations accept cash and credit cards

• Covered parking area protects vehicles from sun and weather

• ADA accessible spaces available near terminal entrance

• Additional information available on the Port of Palm Beach parking page

Nearby Attractions:

• Peanut Island: Popular spot for snorkeling and picnicking

• Lion Country Safari: Drive-through wildlife preserve

• Downtown West Palm Beach: Shopping and dining at Rosemary Square

• Palm Beach: Luxurious shopping and pristine beaches

• Norton Museum of Art: Internationally known museum with diverse art collections

• Mounts Botanical Garden: Palm Beach County's oldest and largest public garden

• Flagler Museum: Henry Flagler's grand Gilded Age estate

• MacArthur Beach State Park: Natural barrier island habitat with pristine beaches

7. Port of Key West: "Southernmost Cruise Port"

Location: Key West, FL

The Port of Key West primarily serves as a port of call rather than a departure port, welcoming ships from major cruise lines stopping during Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries.

Cruise Lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line

• Royal Caribbean International

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

• Celebrity Cruises

Parking Information:

• Since Key West primarily serves as a port of call rather than a departure port, there's no dedicated cruise terminal parking

• For tourists visiting via cruise ships, downtown public parking is available

• Mallory Square Parking Lot near the cruise dock

• Garages at Old Town and Fleming Street

• Street parking with metering throughout downtown Key West

• Visit City of Key West Parking for current rates and locations

Nearby Attractions:

• Mallory Square: Famous for sunset celebrations

• Ernest Hemingway Home: Historic residence of the famous author

• Duval Street: Lively strip of bars, restaurants, and shops

• Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: Tranquil attraction featuring hundreds of butterflies

• Dry Tortugas National Park: Remote island park with historic Fort Jefferson and pristine snorkeling

• Southernmost Point Buoy: Iconic landmark marking the southernmost point in the continental US

• Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters: Historic lighthouse with panoramic views of the island

• Mel Fisher Maritime Museum: Museum displaying treasures from shipwrecks discovered by famous treasure hunter

Another Way to Get There: The Brightline Advantage

Florida's new high-speed rail service, Brightline, has become a game-changer for cruisers traveling between major Florida cities. This modern train connects Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, making it easier than ever to reach your cruise port without dealing with Florida's notorious traffic.

Brightline offers several key advantages for cruise passengers:

1. Convenient Port Access: Brightline stations are relatively close to cruise ports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. PortMiami is just over a mile from the Miami station, while Port Everglades is approximately 3.5 miles from the Fort Lauderdale station.

2. Integrated Transportation: Passengers can purchase fares that include Uber rides to or from cruise ports, creating a seamless transportation experience.

3. Traffic Avoidance: Brightline trains travel at speeds up to 125 mph on certain stretches, helping passengers avoid the congested I-95 corridor.

4. Airport Connections: The Orlando station is located at Orlando International Airport (MCO), making it convenient for cruisers flying into Orlando who want to embark from a South Florida port.

5. Family-Friendly Options: Brightline offers kid-friendly fares, making it an economical choice for families traveling to cruise ports.

The train service allows cruisers to combine attractions in South Florida and Orlando in a single trip without relying on rental cars. For example, you could fly into Orlando, visit the theme parks, take Brightline to Miami, and then embark on a Caribbean cruise—all without the hassle of driving.

Florida's Private Cruise Destinations: Island Paradises

One of Florida's unique cruise advantages is proximity to cruise line private islands in the Bahamas. These exclusive destinations are accessible only to cruise passengers and offer pristine beaches, water activities, and amenities without the crowds:

Royal Caribbean: Perfect Day at CocoCay

• Located in the Bahamas' Berry Islands

• Features Thrill Waterpark with 13 waterslides including Daredevil's Peak, North America's tallest waterslide

• Up-Up-and-Away helium balloon ride offers panoramic views from 450 feet

• Accessible from Port Canaveral, PortMiami and Port Everglades sailings

Disney Cruise Line: Castaway Cay

• Disney's private Bahamian island with separate areas for families, teens, and adults

• Features Disney character appearances and themed activities

• Clear waters ideal for snorkeling Disney's underwater surprises

• Primarily accessible from Port Canaveral voyages

Norwegian Cruise Line: Great Stirrup Cay

• Recently renovated with luxury beach villas and an exclusive Silver Cove retreat

• Zipline course crosses the island for aerial views

• Complimentary tram service around the 250-acre island

• Accessible from PortMiami and Port Canaveral sailings

MSC Cruises: Ocean Cay Marine Reserve

• MSC's eco-friendly private island opened in 2019

• Features marine sanctuary and coral nursery

• Eight beaches and a 360° Lighthouse Bar with panoramic views

• Accessible from PortMiami sailings

Holland America/Carnival: Half Moon Cay

• Shared private island used by both cruise lines

• Consistently rated as one of the best private islands

• Features horseback riding in the ocean and stingray encounters

• Accessible from Port Everglades and PortMiami sailings

Plan It! 

When selecting your ideal Florida cruise port, consider these factors:

1. Flight Options: Ports near major airports (like Port Everglades near FLL) can reduce transfer times and costs.

2. Desired Destinations: Different ports specialize in various itineraries—Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer the most diverse options, while Port Canaveral is ideal for Bahamas cruises.

3. Pre/Post-Cruise Activities: Consider what you want to do before or after your cruise. Port Canaveral is perfect for theme park enthusiasts, while Miami offers vibrant nightlife and beaches.

4. Transportation Preferences: If you prefer not to drive, consider ports accessible via Brightline or with good public transportation options.

5. Parking Costs: If driving to your cruise, compare parking rates across ports—Tampa and Jacksonville typically offer more economical options than Miami.

6. Private Island Access: If visiting a cruise line's private island is important, check which Florida ports offer itineraries that include these destinations.

Pack your sense of adventure, your sunscreen, and maybe an extra swimsuit – Florida cruising is all about having fun without overthinking it. Whether you're sailing from Miami, Port Canaveral or any of Florida's awesome ports, the vacation magic starts the moment you spot your ship at the terminal.

Now stop reading about cruising and go actually book one! The buffet is waiting, the pool deck is calling, and there's a lounge chair somewhere with your name on it. See you onboard!

Riding the Brightline: A Review from a Florida Local

Beautiful beaches, vibrant flora, fascinating fauna, thrilling theme parks—Florida is known for many things. One thing we’re known for that isn’t so great is how difficult it can be to get around my beloved, oddly-shaped home state. Anyone who’s driven on I-4 knows exactly what I’m talking about!

Thankfully, Florida travel—at least as it pertains to Central and South Florida—has a bright side: Brightline! I recently had the pleasure of riding Brightline from Orlando to Ft. Lauderdale, but if you haven’t yet, read on to see if it’s for you!

What Is Brightline?

Originally known as All Aboard Florida, Brightline is a high-speed passenger train connecting Orlando to Miami with stations in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Aventura, with other stations planned in the future. It gets you from the City Beautiful to the Magic City in about three and a half hours with none of the hassle of navigating congested highways. Yes, some people will say “I can drive there in the same amount of time.” While this “can” be true (if traffic is on your side that day), it was far more relaxing and productive for me to take Brightline. Read on for specifics.

Brightline is also the only privately owned and operated intercity passenger railroad in the US, so that’s one more distinction for Florida.

What It’s Like On Board Brightline

After you board the train with your luggage (and even your bike and your pets, if you choose), you’ll settle in for your 69 mph journey in reclining leather seats with multiple outlets and complimentary Wi-Fi. If you’re riding in coach (“SMART”), you can also enjoy snacks and drinks for an extra charge. The Wi-Fi — great job here to Brightline. It might have been the best experience I’ve ever had on any mode of public transit with Wi-Fi. It was excellent. This was probably my fav reason to take Brightline vs. driving. I was able to get a lot of work done, take a meeting, do some research, etc. And it made the time zip by. If you need food, they have a cart that staff rolls past you periodically. You can see the menu here.

Want a first-class experience? When you purchase what Brightline calls a PREMIUM ticket, those seats get a little wider and the bites and sips become complimentary. Even better, you’ll get access to the Premium lounge within every Brightline’s station, with iPads, scanner, printer, adapters, chargers, and even private conference rooms available for you to use.

My experience overall: 10/10. Everything was efficient and it was fun. My only complaint? Or rather wish? Extend Brightline to Tampa!

Future Stops on Brightline

Brightline’s ridership is rapidly growing, so naturally, we can look forward to more stations being constructed! Stuart, Tampa, Cocoa, and Jacksonville have all been discussed as potential additions. Closer to my neck of the woods, there’s also been much talk about stations being added near Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.

How to Book Your Tickets for Brightline

Anyone looking to ride Brightline will be pleasantly surprised to find that booking a trip doesn’t have to be any more complicated than searching Google Flights or your favorite budget travel site. If you think you’ll find yourself needing more than round-trip tickets for you and yours, they also offer bulk pricing. Regardless, I recommend getting an Uber or a Lyft to the Brightline station you’ll be starting your journey at if you can, or else you’ll be paying to keep your car in their parking garage. Learn more about booking here.

If you’re not yet ready to book your trip or you just love a good deal, you might want to consider subscribing to their newsletter. Brightline also has a page on their website dedicated to discounts and special offers.

Riding trains isn’t a common experience where I’m from, but is it where you grew up? Have you ridden Brightline or any other rail? What was your experience? Tell me all about it in the comments!

Love & Sunshine,

Frances

Florida College Football : Complete 2024 Schedules

Autumn’s arrival means football season is around the corner! You already know the Noles, the Gators, the Rattlers, and the Knights have claimed national championships, but we have many other colleges also gearing up to tackle another year of college football. Whether you’re looking to catch a game on the screen or in the stands, check out the full line-up of Florida schools’ football season below! Just click on a college’s name to be taken to that college’s site where you can see live updates, get tickets, and more.

Division I Schools

Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats (Southwestern Atlantic Conference)

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Rattlers (Southwestern Atlantic Conference)

Florida Atlantic University Owls (American Athletic Conference)

Florida International University Panthers (Conference USA)

Florida State University (Atlantic Coast Conference)

Stetson University Hatters (Football Championship Subdivision)

University of Central Florida Knights (Big 12 Conference)

University of Florida Gators (Southeastern Conference)

University of Miami Hurricanes (Atlantic Coast Conference)

Division II Schools

Edward Waters University Tigers (Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference)

University of West Florida Argonauts (Gulf South Conference)

NAIA Schools

Ave Maria University Gyrenes (Sun Conference)

Southeastern University Fire (Sun Conference)

St. Thomas University Bobcats (Sun Conference)

Warner University Royals (Sun Conference)

Webber International University Warriors (Sun Conference)

Have you been to a football game in Florida yet? Were you lucky enough to witness one of the times a Florida team became national champions? Tell me the story in the comments!

Love & Sunshine,

Frances

AugustWeen: Spooktacular Fall Fun at Walt Disney World

Hey Disney fans! Who's ready for some fall magic? 🍂✨ If you're anything like me, you've been counting down the days until Walt Disney World transforms into an Autumn wonderland. From August to October, the parks come alive with both fall-ish and spooky fun that'll leave you will all the cozy pumpkin vibes. So, let's brew up all the reasons that makes # AugustWeen the right time to put those autumn dreams into action!

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: The Main Event 🎃

The harvest gem of fall at Disney World - Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Happening on select nights from August 9th to October 31st, 2024, it’s THE epitome of how Disney does Fall. This is a separate ticketed event and it all gets going at 7 p.m. People go all-out with the costumes, themed shirts, etc. But don’t let that stop you. Go and check out all of these fun things to do during the Party:

• Trick-or-treating for all ages (yes, adults too!)

• The incredible Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade

• A jaw-dropping fireworks show: Disney's Not-So-Spooky Spectacular

• Chance encounters with Disney Villains (eek!)

• A bewitching Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular castle show

• Exclusive merch and treats you can't get anywhere else

Word to the wise: Tickets are selling faster than hot cider on a cool autumn night. Don't wait to book!

And here's a little insider tip for you: This year, they're offering a Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace during the event. Imagine watching those spectacular fireworks while indulging in Halloween-themed sweets. Talk about ending the night on a high note!

Fall Vibes at Disney Springs 🍁

Need a break from the park crowds? Disney Springs has got you covered. In September and October, it's like stepping into a cozy fall festival:

• Restaurants roll out mouthwatering seasonal menus

• World of Disney stocks up on Halloween goodies

• Live entertainment with an autumn twist

• Perfect spots for those fall family photos

Magic Kingdom: Halloween Central

Even if you can't make it to the party, the Magic Kingdom is still the place to be. Starting in August, Main Street, U.S.A. gets decked out in its Autumn best. It's the perfect backdrop for some seriously cute pics!

Fort Wilderness: Campers Gone Wild 🏕️

Here's a local secret for you: As Halloween approaches, head over to Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. The campers there go all out with their decorations. I'm talking jaw-dropping, over-the-top spooky fun. It's like a Halloween block party on candy corn. If you decide to stay at the campground, make sure you rent a golf cart, grab some hot cocoa and take in the travel trailers and RVs that are “dying to see you.”

Minnie's Halloween Dine: Costume Party Central 🐭

Got kiddos who love character meet-and-greets? You can't miss Minnie's Halloween Dine at Hollywood & Vine in Disney's Hollywood Studios. Seeing Mickey and the gang in their Halloween costumes while you chow down? Priceless. Just make sure to book early – this one fills up fast!

Treats to Die For 🍬

Let's talk treats – because what's Halloween without some spooktacular snacks? This year, Disney's culinary wizards have conjured up some wickedly delicious offerings:

• Tombstone Tarts: Creepy-cute pastries that are hauntingly delicious

• Bowl of Bones: A fun, themed snack that's more delightful than frightful

• Terrifyin' Twice-Spiced Chicken Sandwich: A spicy kick that'll wake the dead (and your taste buds)

And that's just the beginning! Keep your eyes peeled for more ghostly goodies throughout the parks. My advice? Come hungry, leave happy (and maybe a little scared)!

Ready to jump into the ultimate fall adventure? AugustWeen at Walt Disney World is calling your name! From spine-tingling parties to mouthwatering treats, it's a pumpkin lover's dream come true. So grab your Mickey ears (the spooky ones, of course!), pack your costume, and get ready for a hauntingly good time. The magic of Disney meets the thrill of the Autumn season – what could be better? See you in the parks, fellow boo-lovers! 🎃✨🏰.

I’d love to hear your favorite Disney Fall memories in the comments!

Love & Sunshine,

Frances

A”meow”se Yourself at One of These Popular Florida Cat Cafes

Between theme parks and bustling beaches, Florida has no shortage of thrilling ways to spend your summer. If you’re in the mood for a more mellow pastime, one of a million—or should I say meowllion?—ways to unwind is by visiting one of the cat cafes that have been popping up all over the Sunshine State in the last few years. If you’ve never been to one before, a cat café is exactly what it sounds like. Before or after you enjoy the cafe’s offerings, you can bask in the company of friendly felines in an attached room. More often than not, these kitties are rescues, so your presence helps the cats get socialized and prepare them for adoption into a loving home.

Interested in experiencing a cat cafe for yourself? I’ve collected the most popular cat cafés in some of the most-visited Florida cities for you!

Orlando Cat Cafe in Orlando

This cafe is right next door to Disney property, so it’s a perfect spot to go when you’re ready to take a break from the rollercoasters to pet cats and indulge in the attached coffee shop’s pastries, paninis, lattes, and more. Just make sure you call ahead before you visit! You can learn more and see all of their furry residents on their website.

Cats & Caffeine in Tampa

Cold brew, matcha, kombucha, pastries, and kittens await you at Cats & Caffeine! This venue is also available for private events of up to fifteen people, which would make for a great way to celebrate a cat lover’s special day! You can learn more and book your experience on their website.

The Caffeinated Cat in Jacksonville

This cozy little place is the only cat cafe in Jax. They have a limited menu, but it’s only a five-minute drive or a two-minute walk to the beach, and that just can’t be beat! The Caffeinated Cat doesn’t have a website, but you can catch up with them on their Facebook page.

Tally Cat Cafe in Tallahassee

Coffee and tea? Try specialty lattes from a purrista, boba, beer, and wine! If you’re in town for a Florida State University game, you’re in luck! This cat cafe is located just ten minutes from Doak S. Campbell Stadium. The adoptable cats come from Leon County Humane Society. Meet the cats and see the menu on their website.

Good Luck Cat Cafe in Fort Lauderdale

Though they advertise themselves as a cat cafe, don’t go in expecting a full cafe experience. You’ll find K-cups, bottled drinks, and a few snacks, but for more substantial fare, you can always go to Patio Bar & Pizza in the same plaza or travel less than half a mile to Wells Coffee or Circle House Coffee nearby. Find out more about the cafe and their resident cats on their website.

Nine Lives Cafe in West Palm Beach

This is not your average cat cafe! Not only can you play with cats and indulge in cat-inspired food and beverages, but you can also shop for cat care products for your furry friend at home, plus they offer hour-long yoga classes with cats! It doesn’t get any better than that! You can learn more about all their services on their website.

Cattyshack Cafe in Fort Myers

You don’t see a place like this every day—this cat cafe has a golf theme! Reservations are required to play with cats in their Mulligan Room, but they have tons of coffee and other beverage options (including alcoholic options!), plus “nibbles” like pizza bagels and grilled cheese. You can watch this adorable video as an introduction to what they’re all about, then learn more on their website.

Have you ever been to a cat café? Did you wind up taking one of the kitties home? Tell me the story in the comments!

Love & Sunshine,

Frances

Paws and Play: Exploring Dog-Friendly Florida Beaches with Canine-Friendly Eateries

Anyone who’s ever snuggled a puppy, watched an old dog learn a new trick against all odds, or seen one of those happy-tear-inducing viral “baby’s furry protector” videos knows our animal companions are more than just pets—they’re family. And they deserve vacations, too!

If you think your pup would enjoy splashing around, the Sunshine State has plenty of dog-friendly beaches for you to choose from. Then, after you’ve had your fun, take a load off and refuel at one of the dog-friendly restaurants I’ve included by each beach! Don’t forget to pack water, sunscreen, a leash, a collar with updated tags, and copies of your dog’s vaccination records just in case!

Ormond Beach

Located just north of Daytona, this beach has smooth sand with few shells, so no worries about your dog’s paws! Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach from Rockefeller Drive to Milsap Road from dawn ‘til dusk. You’ll also find free parking! Check out the Ormond Beach Dog Video below:

Where to Eat

• If you’re looking to fuel up before you head out, Peach Valley Cafe has tons of options for coffee, breakfast, and brunch, which you can enjoy with your pup on the patio.

• Lulu's Oceanside Grill offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but they’re known for serving seafood and beachy cocktails. You and your dog are also welcome on their patio and enjoy live music!

Canova Dog Beach

This free-to-access beach has tons of amenities that make it a no-brainer to visit if you’re in the Melbourne area—grills, a picnic pavilion, showers, drinking fountains, and public restrooms! Just make sure your dogs are leashed at all times and are wearing tags showing their current license and vaccinations, but you’ll be glad to know there are plenty of waste bags and trash cans available.

Where to Eat

• Around the World Cafe & Bakery (no website, but find them on FB) truly lives up to its name. At this family-owned brunch spot, you and your dog can soak up the sun on the patio while enjoying coffee and anything from French toast to Polish sausage to Greek omelets!

• There’s upstairs (!) patio seating for you and your dog at Lou's Blues Bar & Grill, where you can get classics like burgers, wings, and more. It’s a dynamic place with live music, so be prepared if your furry friend is easily overstimulated.

Canova Beach Park

Walton Rocks Beach/Dog Park

Get ready to be running around all day! This 24-acre off-leash dog beach is perfect for puppies that need to get their wiggles out! Like many beaches on the list, you’ll also find picnic tables and restrooms, so no worries there.

Where to Eat

• While dining at their dog-friendly outdoor tables at this beachfront restaurant, you can enjoy fresh seafood at Angler's Beachside Grill.

• If you and your dog wind up too exhausted to even get out of the car after a long day playing in the waves, Robinson's Cruse Thru is a drive-through restaurant that serves street tacos, burgers, and even beer! Alternatively, you can eat under their covered, pet-friendly patio.

Jupiter Off-Leash Dog Beach

Reviews say this 2.5-mile stretch of beach is great for socializing you and your dog, as well as public restrooms, waste bags, and lots of trash cans available. Plus, who doesn’t love when there’s no parking fee? The Friends of Jupiter Beach has a dog etiquette page here

Dogs getting in their workout on Jupiter Beach

Where to Eat

• The award-winning Hurricane Cafe serves comfort food for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, so you can stop by any time of day to satisfy cravings on their outdoor patio with your dog! 

• Thirsty Turtle Seagrill is a dog-friendly bar with a laid back atmosphere and a huge menu. Happy Hour is from 2 PM to 7 PM every day, so expect some crowds after lunch. There’s also live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

• We couldn’t bring up the beach without mentioning ice cream! Try Elements Frozen Yogurt Shoppe, which is right by the beach and welcomes dogs in their outside seating area.

Dog Park Beach at Fort de Soto Park

If you’ve never experimented with taking your dog to the beach, this is a great place to test the waters—pun intended! Should your furry friend not enjoy splashing in the waves (or should it not make for a relaxing experience for you), hose them off in the doggy shower and let them run wild in one of the two fenced-in areas, where dogs can play off-leash without their owners having to worry about them. Parking is $5 a day, and this park also has barbecue grills, picnic tables, hiking, and public restrooms.

Where to Eat

• Fort de Soto Park has a snack bar and souvenir shop within its borders, so if you’re looking for a quick bite or some ice cream to cool you down, you won’t have to go far!

• If you’re looking for a more upscale option nearby, Sea Worthy Fish Bar allows dogs to sit with you outside while you enjoy—this will shock you—seafood!

Honeymoon Island State Park

Known for the variety of shells on its shores, this beach allows leashed dogs on the beach and on its beautiful nature trails. There’s also a playground, a dog park, and tons of other activities to keep you busy. It’s a Florida State Park, so you know it’s going to be gorgeous, well taken care of, and worth the trip!

Where to Eat

• While you’re at the park, you have to stop by one of Slipp's Ice Carts for snow cones!

• Also within the park, there are signs directing you to Cafe Honeymoon, which is situated right on the main beach area. Next to the pet-friendly beach lies the South Beach Pavilion Cafe. Both serve fare like chicken tenders, burgers, and sandwiches.

Dog Beach at Pier Park in Panama City Beach

This is still the PCB of spring break fame, so expect lots of people and leashed pups at this white sand beach with few shells to disturb your dog’s running around. Waste bags and showers are provided.

Where to Eat

• Pier Park is an outdoor mall, so there’s no shortage of places to stop and eat nearby, including one of Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville restaurants, which I believe everyone should visit at least once just to say you’ve done it! Dogs are welcome at their outdoor seating!

If you have a dog, I’d love to hear their name and breed in the comments, and if you have a dog-friendly hangout to recommend in your area! My dog? Her name is Scout and she’s a mini bernedoodle!

Love & Sunshine,

Frances

This post is lovingly dedicated to Dolly, my mini goldendoodle now watching over us all. She loved the outdoors and she loved people.