Weekend Getaways: Best Day and Overnight Trips in Florida – From Boca Raton to St. Augustine

When you live in or visit Florida, especially in sought-after areas like Boca Raton, the possibilities for quick and memorable escapes are nearly endless. From cultural havens and historic towns to tropical beaches and natural springs, the Sunshine State offers a perfect weekend getaway for every kind of traveler. Whether you have just a day or a full weekend to spare, this guide explores the best day and overnight trips from Boca Raton to St. Augustine—with a little something for everyone.

Just about an hour and half drive from Boca, Key Largo offers a tropical experience without the need for a passport. This first island in the Florida Keys is a diver’s dream, with world-renowned sites like the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Visitors can snorkel, kayak, or take glass-bottom boat tours to see colorful marine life.

Not a fan of getting wet? Enjoy waterfront dining, fresh seafood, and a relaxed, island-style vibe that instantly melts away stress. Perfect for a romantic day out or a spontaneous family adventure.

Less than 90 minutes from Boca Raton, Everglades National Park makes for an exciting day trip. Hop on an airboat ride through the River of Grass to see alligators, manatees, and exotic birds. With several access points, including Shark Valley and Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, this UNESCO World Heritage Site gives nature lovers an up-close encounter with one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.

Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and your camera—you’ll want to capture this wild Florida wonder.

For an unforgettable overnight trip, head north to St. Augustine—about a 4.5-hour drive from South Florida. As the oldest continuously occupied city in the U.S., St. Augustine is brimming with history, charm, and Spanish colonial architecture. Wander through cobblestone streets, visit the Castillo de San Marcos, or take a ghost tour after dark.

The city’s boutique inns and waterfront hotels make it perfect for a romantic getaway or a family weekend of learning and adventure.

Roughly a 3-hour drive from Boca Raton, Sarasota delivers a refined blend of arts and relaxation. Visit The Ringling Museum, catch a performance at the Sarasota Opera House, or explore the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

Don’t skip Siesta Key Beach, often ranked as one of the best beaches in the U.S. thanks to its soft, white quartz sand. Sarasota also offers a thriving culinary scene, making it ideal for foodies and art lovers.

Just under two hours away, Naples is the perfect overnight escape for those craving a mix of sophistication and natural beauty. Enjoy high-end shopping on Fifth Avenue South, dine at fine restaurants, or take a sunset cruise along the Gulf Coast.

Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary or take a dolphin tour through the Ten Thousand Islands. Naples is a wonderful retreat for both upscale leisure and coastal exploration.

Only about 40 minutes from Boca Raton, Palm Beach is an easy yet luxurious getaway. Browse the designer boutiques on Worth Avenue, tour the palatial Flagler Museum, or relax in the lush surroundings of the Society of the Four Arts gardens.

Whether you’re sipping cocktails at The Breakers or enjoying a private beach day, Palm Beach feels like a European escape—no plane ticket required.

For those willing to drive about 3.5 hours from Boca Raton, Sanibel and Captiva offer a uniquely serene beach vacation. These Gulf Coast islands are famous for their shell-covered shores, quiet bike paths, and pastel sunsets.

Spend the night at a beachfront cottage and rise early for a morning of world-class shelling. These islands are perfect for anyone looking to disconnect and reset in nature.

Only 30 minutes from Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale makes an ideal day or overnight trip. Cruise the scenic canals on a water taxi, visit the NSU Art Museum, or enjoy upscale dining along Las Olas Boulevard.

The city also offers fantastic beachfront promenades and luxury hotels, making it an easy escape when you want to mix beach time with cosmopolitan flair.

About an hour north of Boca Raton, Jupiter offers a quiet retreat with natural beauty and history. Climb the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse for sweeping views or visit Blowing Rocks Preserve for dramatic oceanfront scenery.

For a longer stay, explore the nearby Treasure Coast towns like Stuart and Vero Beach for even more off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Whether you’re chasing culture, nature, or luxury, Florida offers endless opportunities for rejuvenating escapes—many just a short drive from Boca Raton. Having a home base like the Polo Club of Boca Raton means you’re perfectly positioned to take advantage of the state’s rich and varied offerings, all while enjoying the elegance and security of one of South Florida’s most prestigious communities.

Work with Michael and Wendy Ledwitz, your go-to community experts who understand every nuance of this luxurious neighborhood. From top-tier amenities to insider knowledge of local real estate, they’re your ultimate resource for navigating life at the Polo Club. Learn more about the Polo Club here: https://poloclub.org/.

Be sure to explore Polo Club Real Estate News and Discover the Polo Club for the latest updates and insights.