12 Big Mistakes to Avoid in Florida

We all know and love the sunshine state: but what if we told you there are mistakes to avoid in Florida?! That’s right, so many people– locals and tourists– are doing Florida wrong!

There is obviously so many things to do: from visiting Orlando, to exploring the state’s natural springs, and even going to the beaches, you can have fun around every corner. As a longtime Floridian, though, I am going to give you the insight of what NOT to do in Florida!

The welcome to Florida sign that reads "the sunshine state" sits in front of a palm tree and on the beach!

Mistake #1: Assuming You will 100% See an Alligator

There is always a possibility of seeing an alligator, there is no denying this. However, in places like our natural springs, the mere presence of people deters these gators from exploring. They hate all the splashing!

Plus, alligators don’t love cold, clear water. But if you are still afraid or worried about these creatures, go to places that there is 0% chance of interaction– like Devil’s Den! Or see them close up and personal at Busch Gardens… from behind a fence.

Of all mistakes to avoid in Florida, don't assume anything about alligators: as seen in this photo, they like to stay away from people-- this gator swims away from an airboat tour.

Mistake #2: Driving Slowly in the Left Lane

Florida has some of the worst drivers. Because we have so many locals, snowbirds and tourists, we get a hodgepodge of driving rules and experiences mashed together on the roads. Our advice? Avoid the left lane!

Unless, of course, you are going fast. Or passing! Otherwise, let drivers get to where they are going. Especially on big highways like I-4. If they want to speed, let them go get that speeding ticket for you!!

An arial shot of St. Armen's circle shows the crazy traffic pattern that is common in Florida areas: always go fast in the left lane!

Mistake #3: Underestimating the Heat in Florida

This mistake seems especially relevant during summers, and with the current heat wave we are having. Obviously because we are close to the equator, we tend to have hotter weather.

But with that warmer climate becomes stronger sunlight. We are, on average, the hottest state in the United States! And our average temperatures have steadily risen over the past 15 years. The warm humidity and post-storm heat is also awful: so stay hydrated, watch heat advisories, and be prepared.

Of all mistakes to avoid in Florida do not estimate the power of the sun: in this photo the sun beats down over the skyline of Miami, blurring out shadows and causing sun beams.

Mistake #4: Not Taking Lightning Seriously

Florida is the lightning capital of the United States. On average, we have thunderstorms 70-100 days per year. The lightning associated with said storms kills about 10 people per year, and over 40 people are injured with lightning.

This being said, avoid sheds, porches, balconies and open topped cars during a storm. Wait 30 minutes after the last lightning strike to resume outdoor activities. Move from outdoors if you can, and always pay attention to alerts or warnings.

A huge blot lightning brightens the night sky and clouds above the Tampa skyline.

Mistake #5: Not Understanding the Beach Flag System

Beach flag codes work as a warning system. To be informed of the dangers of the beach, one must know the color codes to be prepared for what is in the water, or what is going on with the water.

For example, double red flags indicate high hazards and the water is closed to the public. Red indicates strong currents. Green indicates calm conditions, but caution is still advised. Other colors– such as purple– indicate marine animals like jellyfish or stingrays are present. Knowing colors can help!

Of all mistakes to avoid in Florida, make sure to know the flags of the beach! Two red flags above bright blue water and tan sands indicates that this beach is closed due to high hazard risks.

Mistake #6: Underestimating the Size of Theme Parks

Mistakes to avoid when traveling to Florida is, first, only going to Orlando. We all know and love the theme parks, but when considering Florida travel tips, consider a lot about these parks!

Walt Disney World is way bigger than any other Disney parks. In fact, it is over 25,000 acres: this is the same size as an entire city. Disney has its own zip code! Even Universal is over 541 acres, and they are opening a whole new park. So plan accordingly– with good shoes, and rest days!

A women in a long yellow dress and braids stands in front of a hidden Mickey at Animal Kingdom, taking a rest.

Mistake #7: Not Wearing Reef Safe Sunscreen

One of the most important tips of al Florida tips, is WEAR SUNSCREEN! But, most importantly, of all travel tips for Florida, please wear reef safe sunscreen. Our reefs are dying. We are trying to be ocean friendly!

Reef-safe or reef-friendly sunscreen do not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two UV-blocking chemicals that have a large impact on coral bleaching. But despite not having these chemicals, this sunscreen protects us and other marine animals too.

One of the major mistakes to avoid in Florida includes not wearing reef friendly sunscreen: in this photo a snorkeler dives toward a school of fish and coal reefs while wearing reef safe sunscreen to help protect the animals!

Mistake #8: Only Visiting the Beaches in Florida

When googling how to plan a trip to Florida, obviously beaches are going to pop up as suggested places to visit. We have world famous beaches, of course, and many of our beaches are warm even in the winter months (especially to people who are not from Florida!).

Nevertheless, this is not the only thing to do here. There are a bunch of other cool things to do. If you are set on water and nature, you can enjoy state parks and springs! But there are also museums, beach towns, historic cities and more worth exploring.

A women in a red bathing suit stands on the cusp of a spring in Florida, overlooking the clear water in between roots that break through from the ground.

Mistake #9: Feeding the Seagulls

Gulls should be left alone to forage naturally. When on the beach, seagulls that are fed by humans often get confused when they don’t consistently get fed. This can also encourage competition of feeding.

Birds can also get distracted by other hazards, putting them in harms way as they try to get food. Protect and respect the wildlife of Florida!

One of the major mistakes in Florida people make is feeding seagulls: this photo shows two seagulls in soft sand, waiting for someone to feed them, which is bad for their survival!

Mistake #10: Traveling to Florida in Hurricane Season Without a Backup Plan

We will let you in on a little secret: things are cheaper during Hurricane Season. Especially in September!! You can totally take advantage of this, but make sure you have good travel insurance of a felixaeble plan because hurricanes are unpredictable.

Travel insurance can help curb cancellations or delays with baggage, closures due to natural disasters, emergency evacuations and more. Be prepared: you don’t want to be stuck in a storm! So when planning a vacation to Florida check dates.

An intense wave of wind and water flood the streets and push the palms trees sideways in this residential area in Florida. Be prepared for hurricane season!

Mistake #11: Assuming All There is to do In Orlando is just the Theme Parks

There are more Orlando attractions beyond the theme parks. While Universal and Disney are fun, they can be pricey and crowded. So don’t limit yourself to just the parks!

Check out other options like Lake Eola Park, take a Airboat tour, visit Fun Spot, shop on I-Drive, go to the Kennedy Space Center and more. Orlando also has a great foodie scene, so feel free to explore restaurants beyond typical chains!

A women n a blue dress and crown sits in front of the old-school Cinderella castle at Magic Kingdom-- the colors aren't pink but blue!

Mistake #12: Not Trying Local Cuisine

We mentioned that Orlando has some great food options, but one of the mistakes to avoid when traveling to Florida is only eating at chains! Florida has so much to offer. The local cuisine is fresh and fun and worth trying.

For example, try alligator bites or the fresh grouper sandwich. Fresh fish is always available on the coasts. Get a real Cuban sandwich in Tampa, or enjoy classic Key Lime Pie in the keys!

A pair of hands holds a half of a Cuban sandwich, filled to the brim with mustard, pork, pickles and more: one major mistake in Florida is to avoid trying local cuisine like this!

And there you have it, folks. 12 big mistakes to a void in Florida! Make your trip to the sunshine state easy and fun. Plan ahead, be prepared, and explore all you can because there is so much to offer here.