Photos: Mélissa Caron
The Sunshine State is known for its beaches, gators and palm trees. It’s also a perfect escape destination for every camper van or RV enthusiast. We met with a new generation of snowbirds as we drove all the way to Key West!
Leaving from NYC for this trip, we had a cloud over our head for a thousand miles until we finally reached Florida! Obviously we had to stop in Sebastian Inlet and Jupiter to surf, and finally made it all the way down to explore the Keys and the Key West areas. We stopped by the John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park and the Bahia Honda State Park, where we highly recommend stopping for snorkeling, diving, kayaking through the mangroves or to simply relax on the beach. We did not have enough time to spend the night in Key West but you’ll find some real nightlife down there for sure!
We went on the Gulf of Mexico Coast afterwards because I really wanted to see gators and more of the Florida wildlife. We ended up spending a day in the Myakka River State Park, which is even better then the Everglades as you’ll see plenty of birds, deers and where you can rent a canoe to see gators as close as you’ll ever be.
We visited Siesta Keys where you’ll find an island vibe . We were told that it’s one of the best spot along the Florida Gulf Coast and we had to find out why! This is where we met James (and his beautiful dog Valentine) who introduced us to many of the locals and showed us the best places to go.
Will runs an earthship project in Florida and also owns a cool vintage bus!
James invited us to park and enjoy a bonfire to a secret spot where he lives in his ’75 Dodge Travco.