The Most Instagrammable Spots in Florida
Nestled on the southern tip of the Florida Keys, the iconic Seven Mile Bridge stretches over turquoise waters between Marathon and Key West, offering one of the most striking photo opportunities in the state. About two hours south of Miami, this engineering marvel provides a sweeping panorama that changes dramatically with the light—early morning mist, blazing midday sun, or the fiery hues of sunset. Walking or biking along the designated path next to the traffic lanes allows visitors to capture endless views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, making it a unique spot for capturing the expansive beauty of the Keys.
In the heart of Miami’s Wynwood Arts District, just a short drive from downtown Miami, the Wynwood Walls showcase a constantly evolving canvas of vibrant street art and murals. This outdoor museum of graffiti and contemporary wall paintings offers a kaleidoscope of colors and creative expression from world-renowned artists. Visitors can wander the neighborhood’s warehouse-lined streets, snapping photos framed by bold, geometric shapes, pop culture icons, and political commentary. The best time to visit is during the golden hour when the fading sunlight adds warmth to the already vivid artwork, enhancing the textures and nuances of the murals.
A couple of hours northwest of Tampa lies the enchanting Devil’s Den Spring in Williston, a natural underground spring encapsulated by a prehistoric limestone cave. The crystal-clear water invites adventurous swimmers and snorkelers to explore its submerged rock formations and shafts, making for otherworldly underwater photography. This spot’s ethereal blue glow comes from the refraction of sunlight entering the cave, a scene best captured on sunny days when beams penetrate the labyrinthine cavern. It’s a rare chance to photograph Florida’s ancient geology in a setting that feels almost magical compared to the typical sun-and-sand imagery of the state.
Heading about an hour north from Orlando, the stunning Canaveral National Seashore offers a pristine stretch of Atlantic coastline, where visitors can find solitude amid windswept dunes and wild beaches. The Apollo Beach Trail invites walkers and bird watchers to meander through maritime hammock forest before arriving at a dramatic ocean overlook. The seashore’s unspoiled landscape is a haven for capturing snapshots of rare shorebirds and sea turtles, especially during nesting seasons in spring and summer. Early mornings are ideal here, when the light softens the landscape and the beach remains largely empty, allowing for peaceful, nature-infused photos.
Along the Gulf Coast, just south of Sarasota, the Siesta Key Public Beach is famed for its dazzlingly white quartz sand, which stays cool underfoot even on the hottest days. This beach’s powdery texture and vibrant blue waters create a striking contrast that’s a magnet for photographers seeking classic tropical vistas. The beach is accessible yet less crowded than some Florida hotspots, making it easier to capture moments of peaceful shoreline and colorful sunsets mirrored in gentle waves. Late afternoon light, just before the golden hour, emphasizes the sand’s pearly sheen and the silhouettes of palm trees swaying in the breeze.
In the city of St. Augustine, about two hours south of Jacksonville, the Castillo de San Marcos stands as a testament to Florida’s colonial past and makes for dramatic architectural photography. This 17th-century Spanish fortress, built from coquina stone, offers visitors panoramic views of Matanzas Bay from its turreted walls. The fortress’s weathered texture and historic cannons provide a strong visual contrast to the shimmering water and busy marina below. Photographers often find the best shots during early evening when the fading sunlight casts long shadows and bathes the fortress in a warm, golden glow.
For a completely different vibe, the vibrant Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach is a snapshot of 1930s glamour and pastel-colored charm. Located just a few miles east of downtown Miami, Ocean Drive is the epicenter of this architectural treasure trove where neon signs, symmetrical facades, and vintage cars combine for a timeless retro aesthetic. The district’s brightly painted buildings and palm-lined streets are best photographed at twilight, when the neon lights come alive and the sky turns a deep blue, framing the scene in a cinematic light reminiscent of classic Hollywood.
Further north, about a 90-minute drive from Tampa, the canopy trails at the Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales provide a peaceful retreat amid lush subtropical gardens and a majestic Singing Tower. The gardens feature winding paths through azaleas, camellias, and ancient oaks draped with Spanish moss, culminating in the tower’s intricate stonework and colorful tile mosaics. This National Historic Landmark offers opportunities to capture both sweeping landscape shots and detailed close-ups, especially in spring when blooms are at their peak. Early mornings and late afternoons bring soft, diffused light that highlights the gardens’ textures and the tower’s Gothic Revival design.
Just outside of Orlando, the charming town of Mount Dora offers a quaint, small-town aesthetic perfect for lifestyle and street photography. Known for its historic downtown with antique shops, colorful murals, and lakeside parks, Mount Dora’s pastel-hued buildings and bustling weekend markets provide an inviting backdrop. The town’s waterfront overlook on Lake Dora frames serene water reflections and sailboats, especially picturesque during the golden hour. Fall brings a particularly mild climate, making exploration comfortable and the light warm and golden, enhancing the town’s friendly, picturesque character.
Out on the Atlantic Coast, about two hours northeast of Miami, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse overlooks a rugged coastline of palm trees and crashing waves. The lighthouse, standing tall since the 19th century, offers visitors a climb to its lantern room where panoramic views stretch across the turquoise water and coastal wetlands. The surrounding park features sandy trails and vibrant natural habitats rich with birdlife, perfect for capturing a blend of historical and natural beauty. Early morning visits reward photographers with soft sunlight and fewer crowds, ideal for appreciating the lighthouse’s striking silhouette against the vast sky.
Southwest of Fort Myers, the natural beauty of Lovers Key State Park invites visitors to explore a barrier island paradise of mangroves, tidal estuaries, and sandy beaches. About a 40-minute drive from downtown Fort Myers, the park’s multiple trails and boardwalks wind through diverse ecosystems, offering close encounters with dolphins, herons, and manatees. The quiet beaches and salt marshes are excellent for sunrise photography when the sky’s pastel colors reflect off calm waters. Unlike some of Florida’s more crowded coastal parks, Lovers Key’s blend of wildlife and tranquil scenery allows for intimate nature shots and peaceful moments immersed in the Gulf Coast’s charm.