
Florida has a way of surprising people who think they’ve already seen it all. Beyond the theme parks and crowded beaches are winding coastal roads, hidden freshwater springs, quiet fishing towns, and state parks that feel a world away from the interstate. From Clearwater, some of the state’s most memorable destinations are close enough for a weekend away, and Subaru is well suited for making the most of each one. If you’re planning your next escape, here are a few Florida drives that deserve a place on your list.
Built for the Sunshine State’s Unexpected Turns
Florida road trips don’t usually involve mountain passes, but they do bring afternoon downpours, sandy parking areas near the beach, and park roads that aren’t always freshly paved. That’s where Subaru models stand apart. Nearly every Subaru comes equipped with Symmetrical AWD, providing added confidence when the weather changes in a hurry. Models like the Subaru Outback® and Subaru Forester® also offer generous ground clearance, flexible cargo space, and available roof rails that make it easy to bring along kayaks, bicycles, paddleboards, camping gear, or fishing equipment. If your travels tend to wander a little farther from the main highway, Wilderness models add additional capability with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and suspension upgrades designed for more challenging terrain. If you’re comparing models before your next trip, exploring our new Subaru inventory can help narrow down the right fit for your adventures.
Follow the Gulf Coast South
Some road trips are about the destination. This one is just as much about everything along the way. Heading south from Clearwater through Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples, and Marco Island offers an ever-changing view of Florida’s Gulf Coast before arriving at Everglades National Park. It’s a drive filled with waterfront restaurants, nature preserves, beach walks, and opportunities to spot wildlife long before you reach the park itself. The Subaru Outback® feels especially at home here. Its comfortable ride makes long highway stretches easy, while the spacious cargo area leaves plenty of room for coolers, folding chairs, cameras, and everything else that tends to come along on a Florida getaway.
Spend a Weekend Exploring Florida’s Springs
Some of Florida’s most remarkable destinations don’t involve saltwater at all. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Ichetucknee Springs State Park, and Blue Spring State Park are famous for crystal-clear water, kayaking, tubing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and manatee sightings during cooler months. They also inspire visitors to pack a surprising amount of equipment.
The Subaru Forester® makes that easy thanks to its generous cargo area and available roof rack system. Symmetrical AWD also adds confidence when afternoon storms leave gravel parking areas slick or park access roads a little less predictable. Before heading out, it’s also a good idea to stop by our Subaru service center to make sure your vehicle is ready for the miles ahead.
Discover Florida’s Atlantic Coast
If you’ve spent years enjoying the Gulf Coast, crossing the state opens the door to an entirely different side of Florida. Canaveral National Seashore, Flagler Beach, and Amelia Island each have their own personality, with quieter shorelines, scenic coastal highways, historic communities, and excellent opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing. The drive itself carries you through ranchland, small towns, and stretches of countryside that many visitors never experience. Subaru SUVs make those longer drives especially enjoyable with supportive seating, advanced driver-assistance technology, and cargo space that’s ready for beach umbrellas, luggage, bicycles, or a weekend’s worth of supplies.
Finding the Right Subaru for Your Travels
Every adventure looks a little different, and Subaru offers a model to match. The Subaru Crosstrek® is a smart companion for solo travelers and couples looking for a compact SUV that’s easy to park while still offering standard Symmetrical AWD. The Subaru Forester® adds extra cargo room and excellent outward visibility, making it a favorite for camping trips and visits to Florida’s state parks. The Subaru Outback® blends SUV capability with wagon versatility while offering available towing capability for smaller trailers and outdoor equipment. Families planning extended vacations may appreciate the Subaru Ascent®, whose three-row cabin provides generous passenger space along with the flexibility to bring everyone and everything along for the trip.
Your Next Getaway Starts Here
Some of Florida’s best destinations are only a few hours from Clearwater, making it easy to trade the familiar for something new without taking a week off. From freshwater springs and quiet beaches to scenic drives along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, there’s always another stretch of road waiting to be explored. Visit Fitzgerald Subaru Clearwater to explore the latest Subaru lineup, compare models built for every kind of adventure, or schedule a test drive online today before your next Florida road trip.

