Dreaming of sandy beaches and warm weather? Looking to leave behind the winter snow and ice up north? Florida is waiting with open arms! Whether you’re looking to party in Miami or settle in the ultimate retirement spot in Sarasota or Ocala, the Sunshine State offers all the comfort, amenities, and excitement to keep you smiling year-round.
In this guide, Caravan Auto Transport discusses the cost (and cost factors) that come with shipping your vehicle to FL, as well as the best snowbird destinations in the state!
Cost of Shipping a Car to Florida
On average, shipping a vehicle to Florida costs anywhere from $500 to $1500. This depends on several factors that include the type of vehicle, delivery time, distance, and service options. There are two main options: open and enclosed carrier. Open transport is cheaper and more readily available, while enclosed transport is more expensive but provides greater protection.
In general, transport to the state costs approximately $1 per mile for the first 500 miles. After that, it costs about $.75 per mile. Also, keep in mind that the season in which you have your auto delivered will affect the overall rate.
With more than 274,000 miles of highways and byways, Florida offers endless adventures and opportunities to get out on the road. The entire state is also a snowbird’s paradise, offering a wide variety of destinations, attractions, and activities. If you’re headed south for the winter (or permanently relocating here), it definitely helps to have your own ride.
If you’re looking to make your shipping experience as smooth as possible (and bypass the stress of having to spend a ton of time and effort looking for a reliable company), Caravan is here to ease your burden! We make it easy to find the perfect fit for your exact needs.
Top Snowbird Destinations in Florida
From Pensacola to Key West, the state of Florida is brimming with adventures and fun times. If you’re looking to escape the dead of winter, there are several prime spots to soak up that famous sun and enjoy yourself!
1. Boca Raton
A fantastic city for all ages, Boca Raton is one of the Top 10 areas to visit (and live) in the state. Premier country clubs, award-winning food, destination beaches, golf courses, parks, outstanding weather… there’s an endless list of things to do in the southeastern coastal gem.
Looking for top attractions? Check out Downtown for the day or evening. Red Reef Park is home to a sea turtle sanctuary, butterfly garden, and numerous trails. And for art lovers, the Boca Raton Museum of Art is a must. Whether young or old, Boca Raton is quickly becoming the top destination for snowbirds of all ages.
2. Bonita Springs
As one of the most affordable areas for snowbirds, Bonita Springs is also known as the Gateway to the Gulf. You’ll find a ton of accessible amenities, from shops and restaurants to inexpensive rentals and winter abodes. There’s an appealing resort vibe here.
Shopping and nice places aren’t the only pluses here. There are a bunch of fantastic beach areas, including Barefoot Beach Preserve and Bonita Springs Public Beach. You’ll also find several parks such as Dog Beach Park and Bonita Springs Dog Park.
3. Destin
Into the RV life? You’re probably destined to fall in love with Destin, FL! Located on the Emerald Coast, Destin is famous for its deep-sea fishing. In fact, it’s ranked amongst the best in the United States. Along with year-round fishing excursions, the city is home to the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo, which is a huge draw in October.
Along with world-class fishing, Destin is known for its stunning beauty. From immaculate white sand beaches to stunning peninsula vistas, this is a gorgeous place to set up shop. Top RV campgrounds include Destin Village RV Resort and Henderson Beach State Park.
4. Jupiter
Situated in Palm Beach County, Jupiter is certainly out of this world when it comes to top places for snowbirds. It’s close to Palm Beach International Airport, where many visitors land to visit the pristine white sand beaches the area is known for.
If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll love it here! Home to over 20 miles of intercoastal waterways and five miles of oceanfront, the city is ideal for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. As mentioned previously, the beaches are a big attraction. There are several amazing public beaches. And if you’re an avid golfer, you have your pick of 18 courses.
5. Ocala
Are you a lover of all things equine? Want to visit or live in an area that’s unique, naturally gorgeous, and filled with interesting things to do? Ocala, as one of the top retirement communities around, is known for being a place for active living.
Along with being surrounded by horses and equine facilities, Ocala is also a great area for paddling and hiking. The downtown area has some fantastic shops that specialize in everything from antiques to handmade soap. And if you’re into cuisine, prepare yourself to be spoiled. The city is packed with amazing restaurants, from casual Thai to upscale French.
6. Panama City Beach
Florida as a whole is a snowbird’s paradise. But when it comes to pinpointing the absolute top spots, Panama City Beach ranks high on the list. Situated in Northwest Florida, it combines a bustling arts scene and access to one of the best freshwater bays in the state. If boating and fishing are your things (as well as delicious seafood like oysters), this is the place to be!
Along with a multitude of water activities, neighboring Panama City is also home to two popular historic districts: St. Andrews and Downtown. From handcrafted beer to historic attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in either of these districts.
7. Sarasota
Looking for one of (if not the) best places to retire in the Sunshine State? Found approximately an hour south of Tampa – it’s also situated along the Gulf Coast – the City of Sarasota blends Old Florida feel with diverse cultural elements.
As one of the top retirement communities not only in Florida but the entire nation, Lakewood Ranch is one of the crown jewels of the Sarasota area. It’s an area with all ages, but you’ll find a higher concentration of folks 55 years and older here.
8. West Palm Beach
Simply put, West Palm Beach is a snowbird haven. Offering that quintessential Florida experience – myriad activities, palm tree-lined streets, waterfront vistas, and deliciously warm weather – the city is a perennial favorite for tourists and residents alike.
Love retail therapy and clubbing? The Downtown Retail and Entertainment District is one of the best in the country. If fishing is more your speed, then you’ll also love it here. Offering some of the best fishing in the US – sailfish is a big draw – you’ll have a hard time not reeling in a prize catch. Whatever your interest, West Palm has something for everybody.
***
Ready to enjoy the warm weather of Florida? Caravan Auto Transport makes it a breeze to ship your vehicle to the Sunshine State. From passenger vans to luxury sedans, we connect you with fully vetted, qualified, and experienced auto transport specialists. Click here to learn more and request your free shipping quote today!