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Everybody loves a beach day, right? We asked our readers for locations they wanted to see featured in upcoming road trip guides. Here are four beachy destinations within three hours of Swan City recommended to us by readers Gail F., John W., Laura H., Joan R., and Neal P.
Sit in the shade and enjoy a refreshing drink before hitting the beach.
Photo by @discoverstaugustine
đź“Ť St. Augustine | 2 hours 45 minutes from Lakeland
- Eat: Enjoy avocado toast for breakfast or a Bocadillo sandwich for lunch at Sunday.
- Explore: Attend the free Music and Art by the Sea 2023 at St. Johns County Ocean Pier (350 A1A Beach Blvd.) for live music, art shows, food trucks, and more from May 24-June 28, then again from Aug. 16-Sept. 27.
- Stay: The Luxury Historic Island Dog House of Downtown St. Augustine (~$204/night)
- Shop: Beach cooler
Could this be your next Instagram photo?
Photo by @magwhat
đź“Ť Nokomis Beach | 1.5 hours from Lakeland
- Eat: Stop by The Breakfast Cottage daily from 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. for specialty coffees, smothered French toasts, and cinnamon swirl pancakes.
- Explore: Charter a fishing boat for a day of quality time with the family — everything you need is included.
- Stay: Beachfront resort (prices vary)
- Shop: Seasickness wristbands (just in case)
Stop by this beach cafe from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Photo by @glutenfreedisneyworld
đź“Ť Bradenton Beach | 1.5 hours from Lakeland
- Eat: Grab breakfast or lunch at Tahini Beach Cafe. The Mediterranean spot is known for its gyros and smoothies.
- Explore: Walk the iconic Bridge Street to visit the Historic Old Town District — did you know this area was first visited by Spanish explorers in 1530?
- Stay: Boutique inn with rooftop lookout (~$280/night)
- Shop: Straw sunhat
Are your kiteboarding days ahead of you?
Photo by @tarponkiteboardingadventures
đź“Ť Tarpon Springs | 1.5 hours from Lakeland
- Eat: Touted as one of Tarpon Springs’ premier dining establishments, Dimitri’s on the Water offers seafood, steak, and Greek cuisine.
- Explore: Learn how to kiteboard from an experienced instructor — multiple or single-day lessons are available.
- Stay: Innisbrook Golf Resort (prices vary)
- Shop: Woven beach bag
That’s not all — check out our favorite quiet beaches or tell us what beach should be added to this list.
