Gulf Coast & Florida Keys

Beginning your holiday with included airport lounge access, you'll then fly out to Tampa, collecting your hire car for the short drive to your hotel. Tampa and nearby St Petersburg are renowned for their world-class beaches, first-rate entertainment and fantastic food scene, derived from cultural influences as far afield as Spain, Greece, Cuba and Russia.

Stay: Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay (Superior)

Drive south to the white beaches and sunshine of Sarasota. Its Spanish colonial history can still be seen in its Mediterranean Revival architectural style, typified by the Sarasota Times Building. However, it’s now better known for its golf courses and thriving arts scene which owes much to modern Sarasota’s forefather – John Ringling – a circus magnate who, in the early 20th century, brought art galleries and a college to this once struggling township. His storied estate is now open to visitors. You’ll also find America’s love affair with the automobile realised in the Classic Car Museum.

Stay: Hyatt Regency Sarasota (Superior) or The Resort at Longboat Key Club (Superior)

Head down the coast to laidback Sanibel Harbour and Sanibel island. Beaches are undeveloped, locals are friendly and the best way to get around is by bike so prepare to unwind in one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Even its mansions retreat shyly behind thick foliage while its northern half is almost entirely protected by a wildlife refuge, home to a myriad of birdlife. Perhaps charter a boat to enjoy a day on the water, fishing away the hours.

Stay: Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa (Superior)

For upscale romance, the ever-charming Naples has become something of an artist’s retreat. And it’s no surprise as its white sands are backed only by half-hidden residential enclaves and the renowned Everglades are just a stone's throw away. Famous Naples Hotel has played host to the likes of Greta Garbo, Thomas Edison and Gary Cooper while today artists have come to set up shop with the town’s art district a veritable treasure trove of workshops and galleries.

Stay: Naples Bay Resort & Marina (Superior)

Drive over the striking beauty of Seven Mile Bridge as you make your pilgrimage to Florida Keys – that jutting 113-mile long archipelago that divides the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. Linked by 42 bridges, its azure waters and brilliant sunsets are a picturesque backdrop to the rum-bar indulgences of your beachfront. Make a day trip to the Key West tip; closer to Cuba than Florida’s mainland in more ways than geography, its lush vegetation, pristine beaches and brightly painted buildings are a real joy.

Stay: Hawks Cay Resort (Superior)

Heading back to the Florida Mainland, you’ll reach the glitz and glamour of Miami where you drop off your hire car. Staying in trendy South Beach, you’ll have the best of the city’s high-end restaurants, bars and, as always, white sand on your doorstep. Be sure to take in the clean lines and pastel colours of the city’s heritage Art Deco architecture, of which your hotel is a prime example. Visitors are also treated to exceptional restaurants and lively nightlife, with one of the best music scenes in America.

Stay: Loews Miami Beach Hotel (Deluxe)

On your final day in America, make your way to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.

Arriving back in the UK, continue your journey home.

Blog: Best Road Trips in the USA