There's a stretch of I-4 between Orlando and Daytona that has had so much strange activity (as well as accidents and injuries) that it has been nicknamed the "I-4 Dead Zone."
Legend has it this small stretch of highway was built over the graves of four German immigrants who died of yellow fever. This area has supposedly had an unusually high number of accidents as well as two hurricanes that seemed to follow its path.
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This video is from way back in 2009, but it shows just how long locals have been talking about the I-4 Dead Zone. It also shows some interesting evidence and digs a little deeper into the story of our haunted highway:
Have you ever driven this stretch of road? Did anything frightening or unusual happen? Do you know of any other strange or haunted places in Florida?
Beachfront restaurants in FL are jewels worthy of seeking out. Of course, we already know there are tons of waterfront restaurants in Florida offering an alfresco meal. But what about those restaurants where you can chow down with your toes in the sand? It's hard to believe there are places where you can sit waterside enjoying a cold beverage and watch the sun setting in the distance, all while digging your toes in the white, quartz-riddled beach. However, they certainly do exist. This restaurant road trip will take you to some of the best beach restaurants in Florida filled with tropical vibes and memorable meals. Get ready to enjoy a great dinner on the beach in Florida!
The entire trip clocks in at around 10 hours of drive time, but you’re going to want to stop along the way and chow down. Use our interactive trip itinerary to guide you on your journey. Make it a weekend of exceptional beachfront dining all-in-one road trip. Shoes optional.
When it comes to dining with your toes in the sand, Reef Burger is about as close as you can get. Heck, you can even dine while you’re in the water! This takes the idea of waterfront restaurants in Florida to a whole new level. This floating restaurant near Destin offers up super scrumptious burgers, so whether you’re canoeing or boating around for the day, you can always grab a delicious meal.
Beach Walk Cafe in Destin is truly one of the most romantic places to dine on the beach in FL. When you’re eating on the deck with views of the tumbling waves and setting sun, everything seems like pure magic. However, you can also opt to book the "Toes-In-The-Sand" dining experience which is a private dining adventure that is about as close to perfection as you can get. A fan-favorite is the Grouper Vince which is pecan-crusted grouper artfully assembled with a crispy potato cake, haricot verts, and a honey Worcestershire sauce.
Bongos Beach Bar & Grill is located on St. Pete Beach at the Bellwether Beach Resort, which means you already know the sunsets are going to be phenomenal. This restaurant allows visitors to dine with a drink in hand and toes in the sand, which is about as good as it gets for a scrumptious dinner on the beach in Florida. Enjoy a range of cuisine from delicious apps to fresh seafood and beyond. You can't go wrong with a choice of two Angus ground steak, grilled chicken, mahi, or shrimp tacos with shredded lettuce, Spanish cheeses, and mango salsa. Enjoy a side of tortilla chips, roasted tomato salsa, and fresh guacamole on the side.
Get ready for feet in the sand, a cold tropical drink, local seafood, and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. The Sandbar Restaurant is located on Anna Maria Island and has been a local hangout for years. With farm-to-fork cuisine and elevated fare, this is one place you don’t want to miss out on experiencing. The fabulous fresh Fish Sandwich is tasty every day.
5. Gulf Drive Cafe & The Kokonut Hut, Bradenton Beach
Located just right down the street from your next stop, The Beach House Restaurant is another toes-in-the-sand dining gem. The Gulf Drive Cafe in Bradenton Beach
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offers a bit more of a casual atmosphere but definitely doesn’t lack in the scenery. What’s even better? You can drink and dine under your very own tiki, too! Try the Coconut Shrimp with veggies, coconut rice and sweet apricot sauce.
You really can’t get more "beachfront dining" vibe than having a good majority of your dining room out in the sand. The Beach House Restaurant on Bradenton Beach will offer up some truly magical views as you dine. Even if you wait until the sun sets to make a reservation, the twinkling lights paired with the sounds of the ocean are truly magical. The exquisite Seafood Roll is created with lobster, crab, shrimp, celery, shallots, and fennel, on a toasted hoagie roll.
The Turtle Club Restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a scenic beachfront spot in Naples. As one of Naples' premier waterfront restaurants, you’ll be able to enjoy an impeccable sunset as you dine, or just sit with your toes in the sand and with satiating coastal cuisine. This may very well be one of the best restaurants in Florida! When in season we can't get enough of the luscious stone crab claws.
Beachfront restaurants in FL offer some of the best memories. What do you think about this Florida restaurant road trip? Have you already visited any of these eateries, or do you have others you would add to the list? Make sure to let us know in the comment section below!
The Florida Panhandle boasts some of the most picturesque coastal landscapes and scenic viewpoints in the state, and perhaps even some of the most underrated in my opinion. Because I grew up in South Florida, I'm always amazed at the natural beauty tucked away in the Panhandle. We've curated a list of Florida's most iconic panhandle views in one epic road trip. These locations in the Florida Panhandle showcase the region's natural beauty, from expansive beaches and turquoise waters to scenic coastal dunes and historic landmarks. Whether you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sunset or explore nature's wonders, this road trip offers some of the best views Florida has to offer.
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You can find the entire itinerary for the road trip here, including all of the stops along the way. In total, the road trip takes about 6.5 hours, but keep in mind there is a time change from the first stop to the last stop.
Our first stop is one for the books. Gulf Islands National Seashore in the Florida Panhandle offers unparalleled views of pristine beaches and emerald-green waters. Stretching across barrier islands like Santa Rosa and Perdido Key, this protected area boasts unspoiled natural beauty. Visitors can marvel at the contrast between the white sands and vibrant Gulf waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking in the breathtaking coastal scenery.
You don't have to be an avid angler to soak in the views from our next stop. From Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, visitors are treated to stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and the pristine shoreline of Navarre Beach. Stretching 1,545 feet into the turquoise waters, the pier offers a unique vantage point for observing marine life and enjoying the Gulf breeze. Whether watching colorful sunsets or spotting dolphins in the surf, the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier provides an unforgettable experience of Florida's natural beauty from an elevated perspective.
Grayton Beach State Park, along Florida's scenic Highway 30A, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and its famous sugar-white sands. The park's coastal dune lakes and lush pine forests create a picturesque backdrop for enjoying the beach's natural beauty. Visitors can climb the dunes for expansive vistas that capture the essence of Florida's Gulf Coast, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and simply relaxing amidst the delightful coastal landscape of Grayton Beach State Park.
I know we sound like a broken record, BUT, Panama City Beach boasts some of Florida's most captivating views of the Gulf of Mexico. With its powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters, this stretch of coastline offers idyllic scenes for sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts alike. The towering condominiums along the shore provide elevated perspectives of the beach and ocean, while St. Andrews State Park offers panoramic views from its coastal dunes and the historic St. Andrews Bay.
The beauty of Saint George Island State Park in Florida is not just held to the views of the Gulf of Mexico but also to the sprawling shoreline of seashells, and stunning dunes. This barrier island sanctuary offers a tranquil escape with untouched landscapes and abundant wildlife. Visitors can climb the Cape St. George Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters, or simply stroll along the shoreline to admire the unspoiled beauty of one of Florida's most scenic coastal destinations.
And lastly, we’re finishing up this road trip at one of the most crystal-clear springs in the state, Ichetucknee. Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Florida offers breathtaking views of the translucent springs and lush natural surroundings. The park is renowned for its pristine waters, perfect for tubing, snorkeling, and observing underwater wildlife. Visitors can hike along shaded trails that lead to overlooks with panoramic views of the spring-fed Ichetucknee River.
What do you think of Florida's most iconic panhandle views? Have you been to any of these places before? Sound off in the comments section! Also, if you need a few places to rest along your journey, check out these accommodations courtesy of Booking.com.
