Do I need a visa to visit Florida?

Florida, as part of the United States, requires a visa or ESTA authorization for most international travelers, depending on your country of origin. Check U.S. entry requirements before traveling.

What is the sales tax in Florida?

The state sales tax is 6%, but local counties may add discretionary sales surtax, making the total typically between 6.5% and 8.5%.

Is Florida expensive to visit?

Costs vary widely. Major tourist areas like Orlando and Miami can be expensive, but budget options exist. Off-peak travel and exploring smaller towns can reduce costs.

Can I drink the tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout Florida.

Are the theme parks suitable for young children?

Yes, parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios offer numerous attractions, shows, and areas specifically designed for young children and families.

Varies by nationality. Most visitors from visa-waiver countries need ESTA; others require a U.S. visa.

What is the currency?

U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards widely accepted; carry cash for small vendors.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, English is official. Spanish is common in Miami and parts of South Florida.

Are there alligators in beaches?

Rarely on ocean beaches, but common in freshwater lakes, rivers, and golf courses. Never approach or feed them.

What is hurricane season?

June 1 to November 30. Monitor forecasts and have a plan; travel insurance recommended.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and regulated. Bottled water is also widely available.

Do I need a rental car?

Recommended for exploring beyond cities. In urban areas, ride-sharing and public transit suffice.

What is the legal drinking age?

21. ID required; bars and clubs enforce strictly.

Are there nude beaches?

Yes, a few like Haulover Beach (Miami) and Playalinda Beach (Canaveral) have clothing-optional sections.

What is the time zone?

Most of Florida is Eastern Time (GMT-5). The Panhandle west of the Apalachicola River is Central Time (GMT-6).

Is it safe to swim in the ocean?

Generally yes, but heed rip current warnings and flags. Lifeguards present at most popular beaches.

What is the best way to see the Everglades?

Airboat tours, kayaking, or hiking trails. Visit during dry season (December-April) for wildlife viewing.

Florida

StateUnited States, North America

Florida is a STATE in United States, North America.

Florida, the Sunshine State, offers an irresistible blend of world-famous attractions, pristine natural beauty, and vibrant cultural diversity. From the magical theme parks of Orlando, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, to the glamorous Art Deco district and vibrant nightlife of Miami's South Beach, Florida caters to every traveler's dream. Nature enthusiasts can explore the vast, unique ecosystem of the Everglades, home to alligators and rare birds, or relax on the stunning white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast and the Florida Keys, perfect for snorkeling and water sports. The state's rich history is showcased in St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city, while the Kennedy Space Center offers a glimpse into America's space exploration legacy. With its subtropical climate, diverse cuisine influenced by Latin American and Caribbean cultures, and endless opportunities for adventure, Florida promises an unforgettable escape where relaxation and excitement go hand in hand.

Best time to visit Florida

The best time to visit is from November to April, during the dry season, when temperatures are mild (15-25°C/60-80°F) and humidity is lower. This period avoids the peak heat, humidity, and rain of summer, as well as the hurricane season (June-November). However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. For fewer crowds and good weather, consider the shoulder months of May and October.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Clear
Temperature: 18°
Feels like: 16°
Humidity: 69%
Wind: 12 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Condition: Rain
High: 29°
Low: 23°
Average: 25°
Rain: 149 mm

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Best weather; fewer tourists.

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

MIA

Miami International Airport

International

13 km away

FLL

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

International

5 km away

MCO

Orlando International Airport

International

10 km away

TPA

Tampa International Airport

International

8 km away

JAX

Jacksonville International Airport

International

15 km away

Getting around

"Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Florida, especially for visiting multiple destinations or remote areas. Major highways like I-95 and I-75 connect cities. Public transportation varies by city: Miami has the Metrorail and Metromover; Orlando offers Lynx buses; Tampa has streetcars and buses. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available. For intercity travel, consider Amtrak trains or Greyhound buses. In the Florida Keys, the Overseas Highway (US-1) is a scenic drive. Biking is popular in beach towns, and water taxis operate in areas like Fort Lauderdale."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cities, hotels, and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $10

Calling code

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Tourist areas are safe, but remain vigilant in crowded spots and at night.

Night safety

7/10

Tourist areas are safe, but remain vigilant in crowded spots and at night.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Florida is generally safe for tourists, but exercise standard precautions. Be vigilant in crowded tourist areas for pickpocketing. Avoid isolated areas at night. When driving, be cautious of sudden heavy rain and wildlife crossings. Hurricane season runs from June to November; monitor weather reports. Common scams include timeshare fraud and overcharging by unofficial tour operators—only book through reputable companies. Some areas in larger cities may have higher crime rates; research neighborhoods before visiting. Always secure valuables and use hotel safes."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Florida has excellent medical facilities, including major hospitals in cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. No special vaccinations are required for entry. Common health concerns include sunburn, heat exhaustion, and dehydration—use high-SPF sunscreen, stay hydrated, and limit sun exposure during peak hours. Mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus or dengue can occur; use insect repellent. In coastal waters, be aware of jellyfish and rip currents. Ensure you have comprehensive travel health insurance, as U.S. medical costs are high. Pharmacies are widely available."

Culture

Local customs

"Florida is culturally diverse, with strong Latin American influences, especially in South Florida. Dress is generally casual, but upscale restaurants and clubs may require smart casual attire. Tipping is customary: 15-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters, and 15% for taxi drivers. Be respectful of the environment, especially in natural parks like the Everglades. Social norms are relaxed, but punctuality is appreciated for appointments. During hurricane season, follow local advisories without hesitation."

EnglishSpanish

Costs and practicals

Currency

United States Dollar (USD) · $

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15-25 | mid-range restaurant meal per person

Hotels

$100-200 | mid-range hotel per night

Local transport

$30-50 | daily car rental cost

Cost notes

Prices vary by season and location; Miami and Orlando are pricier.

Timezone

America/New_York -05:00 (GMT) / America/Chicago -06:00 (GMT) for parts of the Panhandle

More facts

Population

22,600,000

Area

170,312 km²

Government

State government with an executive branch led by a Governor, a bicameral legislature (Florida Senate and House of Representatives), and a judicial branch.

ISO code

US-FL

Type

State

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: フロリダ州, ఫ్లోరిడా, Florid, फ्लोरिडा, ma Lowita, Filoorida, Teka’niontòn:ke, ფლორიდა, फ़्लोरिडा, Palauritaq, Fla., 플로리다, Флорида, ਫ਼ਲੌਰਿਡਾ, Florida, Florida Shitati, รัฐฟลอริดา, 佛罗里达州, IFlorida, Flórída, فلوریڈا, فلوريدا, Flórídạ, פלארידע, ᎠᏟᏲᎷᎲᏍᎩᎢ, US-FL, புளோரிடா, 佛羅里達州, ফ্লোরিডা, Флорыда, Флоріда, Florida suyu, Pololika, Floriidii, Floarida, Florido, فلوریدا ایالتی, An Floraid, फ्लोरिदा, FL, ဖလော်ရီဒါပြည်နယ်, 佛罗里达州;佛羅里達州, فلۆریدا, Fluorėda, ཧྥོ་ལོ་རི་ཌ།, فلوریدا, פלורידה, Флоридæ, Gah Bikeeʼ Taah Yíʼáhí, ಫ್ಲಾರಿಡ, Floryda, Ֆլորիդա, Фларыда, Φλόριντα, ᑉᓘᕇᑖ, Flòrida, ഫ്ലോറിഡ, Floride, Flórida, AAF, Apalachicola, Apalachikola, Appalachicola, a ba la qi ke la, abalatshykwla, apalachykwla flwryda, epalacikola, Апалачикола, آپالاچیکولا، فلوریدا, أبالاتشيكولا, एपालाचिकोला, 阿巴拉契科拉

Major HubBeachTheme ParkHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyHikingWildlifeSnorkelingNightlife