Exploring Florida in a Honda: Best Road Trips from Tampa Bay
There’s nothing like hitting the open road in Florida — sunshine overhead, scenic highways stretching out ahead, and your Honda ready to take on every adventure.
At Brandon Honda, Tampa’s #1 Honda Dealer and proud member of the Morgan Auto Group, we believe the right car can turn an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable journey. With legendary reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfort, Honda vehicles are built for Florida road trips — whether you’re exploring coastal getaways, hidden springs, or charming small towns.
Here are some of our favorite road trip destinations to explore from Tampa Bay — and the best Honda models to take you there.
Clearwater Beach
Distance: 25 miles | Drive Time: 40 minutes
There’s a reason Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among America’s best beaches. With its powdery white sand, turquoise water, and lively boardwalk, it’s the perfect quick getaway for Tampa drivers.
Best Honda for the Trip:
The Honda Civic or Civic Hatchback — compact, fuel-efficient, and easy to park near the bustling Pier 60 area.
Local Tip: Pack a cooler in your Civic’s trunk and stay to watch the nightly sunset festival.
Crystal River
Distance: 80 miles | Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Head north to one of Florida’s most magical experiences — snorkeling with manatees in Crystal River. This natural spring-fed paradise offers clear waters, kayaking, and hiking trails through lush wildlife preserves.
Best Honda for the Trip:
The Honda CR-V Hybrid — roomy, efficient, and perfect for hauling gear. Plus, its Honda Sensing® safety features make for a relaxing drive on Highway 19.
Must-Do: Visit the Three Sisters Springs Refuge for incredible manatee sightings.
Sanibel Island
Distance: 135 miles | Drive Time: 2.5 hours
Craving a quiet escape? Sanibel Island offers shell-strewn beaches, bike paths, and picturesque sunsets. It’s the ideal retreat for Tampa families or couples looking for calm and coastal charm.
Best Honda for the Trip:
The Honda Accord Hybrid — a smooth, efficient ride with plenty of space for beach gear and unbeatable fuel economy for the long stretch south.
Bonus Tip: Stop in Fort Myers for lunch and visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
Everglades National Park
Distance: 230 miles | Drive Time: 4 hours
For those who love adventure, few destinations compare to the Everglades. From airboat tours and wildlife watching to scenic drives through Shark Valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site showcases Florida’s natural beauty like nowhere else.
Best Honda for the Trip:
The Honda Passport — rugged yet refined, built for off-road capability and comfort. With ample cargo space and all-wheel drive available, it’s made for outdoor exploration.
Don’t Miss: The Anhinga Trail for up-close views of gators, birds, and wetlands.
St. Augustine
Distance: 190 miles | Drive Time: 3 hours
The nation’s oldest city is packed with charm — cobblestone streets, Spanish architecture, and centuries of history. It’s a perfect weekend road trip that feels worlds away from Tampa.
Best Honda for the Trip:
The Honda Pilot — comfortable three-row seating for families, advanced tech, and smooth highway performance for the long haul up I-95.
Can’t Miss: Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and a stroll down historic St. George Street.
Key West
Distance: 420 miles | Drive Time: 7 hours
Few drives are as iconic as the Overseas Highway — 113 miles of bridges, ocean views, and endless sunshine. Key West is the ultimate Florida adventure, perfect for a long weekend or bucket-list escape.
Best Honda for the Trip:
The Honda Odyssey or Honda CR-V — both offer space, comfort, and tech for the whole family. With features like Apple CarPlay®, Adaptive Cruise Control, and wireless charging, the drive is just as fun as the destination.
Road Trip Tip: Stop in Islamorada or Marathon for a swim or fresh seafood on your way down the Keys.
Why a Honda is the Perfect Florida Road Trip Vehicle
No matter where your journey leads, every Honda offers the reliability, comfort, and fuel economy Tampa drivers need for Florida’s long, sunny highways.
- Outstanding Fuel Efficiency: From the Accord Hybrid to the HR-V, Hondas help you save on gas without sacrificing performance.
- Spacious Interiors: Perfect for families, beach gear, or weekend bags.
- Honda Sensing® Safety Suite: Advanced features like Collision Mitigation Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control keep you safe mile after mile.
- Comfort & Tech: Enjoy seamless connectivity with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, plus available heated seats and dual-zone climate control for year-round comfort.
Prep for the Road at Brandon Honda
Before hitting the road, visit Brandon Honda’s state-of-the-art service center for a quick checkup. Our certified Honda technicians will ensure your tires, brakes, and fluids are road-trip ready — so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the Brandon Honda Advantage Club, which offers:
- Two free oil changes
- 10% off service and parts
- Complimentary car washes
- Exclusive travel and service benefits
Start Your Florida Adventure with Brandon Honda
Whether you’re cruising to Clearwater Beach or heading to the Keys, the perfect Honda for your next Florida road trip is waiting at Brandon Honda, located at 9209 E. Adamo Drive, Tampa, FL 33619.
Explore our selection of new and certified pre-owned Hondas — all backed by our Real Nationwide Lifetime Warranty for unlimited time and mileage.