According to forum posts, St. Pete Beach is highly recommended for families, offering hotels with amenities like waterslides and kitchenettes, making it convenient for stays with children. Additionally, Clearwater Beach is noted for its beauty but tends to get crowded during spring break.

Travelers have called out specific locations such as Fort Myers Beach for its family-friendly environment and beach accessibility. Moreover, destinations like Marco Island and Sanibel Island are mentioned for their calm waters and engaging activities suitable for children.

Some users suggested considering the time of year when planning a visit, as this can significantly affect both pricing and crowd levels at various beaches.

According to forum posts, a scenic route from St. Augustine to Crystal River involves driving through the Ocala National Forest. Travelers have suggested taking Route 207 to Route 19, and then west on Route 40, which provides a drive through lush forest areas.

For those preferring a coastal drive, some users recommended taking A1A south to Route 40, which also passes through the Ocala National Forest. This route offers scenic ocean views before heading west.

Travelers have called out the charm of small towns along Florida's roads. Posts mentioned places like Palatka, with its Ravine Gardens State Park, and Micanopy, known for its historic buildings and the film location for Doc Hollywood.

For wildlife enthusiasts, taking the Tamiami Trail (Route 41) through the Everglades has been highlighted. This route is known for its plentiful wildlife sightings, including alligators and birds, and offers a deep dive into Florida's unique wetland ecosystems.

According to forum posts, some travelers recommended renting a car as the most flexible and fastest way to travel between Miami and Orlando, with a driving time of approximately 3 to 4 hours via I-95 or the Florida Turnpike. This option allows for direct travel without the need for transfers.

For those preferring bus travel, the Red Coach and Megabus services have been mentioned as viable options. These buses tend to have fewer stops compared to others like Greyhound, making them a quicker choice for this route.

Travelers have called out the Brightline train as a potential future option for direct rail service between Miami and Orlando. This high-speed train could offer a comfortable and efficient alternative once operational.

While direct flights between Miami and Orlando are available, they may not be the most time-efficient considering the required early airport arrival and potential for lengthy security lines, as discussed in several posts.

According to forum posts, Universal Studios and Disney are among the most popular travel destinations in Orlando. Travelers often plan extensive visits to these parks, highlighting the appeal of movie-themed attractions and character experiences at Disney.

Some travelers have mentioned lesser-known attractions like Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales and Spook Hill, which offer unique experiences away from the typical theme park environment.

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., was frequently recommended by users as a worthwhile day trip from Orlando. Its rich history and scenic views are a draw for visitors looking for cultural enrichment.

Travelers have also expressed interest in beach destinations such as Cocoa Beach and Daytona, which are accessible from Orlando for short trips, offering a mix of relaxation and beach activities.

According to forum posts, Pink Shell in Ft. Myers Beach and Sirata in St. Pete Beach are recommended for travelers looking for resort accommodations with good pools and beach access. The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood is also suggested for its beachfront location and amenities.

For families, the Embassy Suites on St. Augustine Beach is mentioned, though it might be over budget during peak times. The Days Inn in Jekyll Island is noted for being a more affordable option with decent facilities, including two pools and oceanfront views.

Some travelers have recommended the Don CeSar in St. Pete Beach and the Ritz in Naples for elderly travelers requiring easy access and quiet environments. These locations offer comfortable accommodations with necessary amenities in peaceful settings.

For those on a budget, posts suggest looking at hotels like the Days Inn on Jekyll Island and various accommodations in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, which offer reasonable prices and essential amenities without compromising location or comfort.

According to forum posts, visitors recommend taking airboat tours in the Everglades. Everglades Nature Tours was specifically mentioned for its engaging one-hour tours, offering close encounters with local wildlife, including birds and alligators. The guides' knowledge and passion were highlighted as enhancing the experience.

Travelers have called out several marine-related tours as must-dos. These include the Ten Thousand Islands Cruise, known for scenic views and wildlife spotting, and dolphin-watching tours near Marco Island. Additionally, a jet ski eco tour and a mangrove tunnel tour were recommended for those interested in more interactive and adventurous water activities.

For those interested in cultural experiences, some users suggested visiting Ybor City in Tampa for a taste of its unique history and culinary delights, particularly the Cuban sandwiches at Columbia Restaurant. Another recommendation was the historical and picturesque town of St. Augustine, noted for its rich history and accessible via a day trip from Orlando.

According to forum posts, travelers have various car rental options in Florida, including on-site airport rentals and off-site rentals accessible via a shuttle. Some travelers prefer off-site rentals as they can be more cost-effective, despite being slightly inconvenient due to the need for a shuttle transfer.

Many users have discussed the importance of considering toll costs when renting a car. Florida has multiple toll roads, especially around major cities and tourist areas. Travelers can use services like SunPass or the Visitor Toll Pass (VTP) to manage toll payments. Some rental companies may include toll transponders in their vehicles, but fees and policies vary widely, so it's advised to review these details beforehand.

For those considering long-term rentals, like a month-long stay, alternatives like Turo have been mentioned as potentially cost-effective solutions. It's recommended to compare different rental company rates and read the fine print regarding toll policies and other fees.