8-Step Guide to Planning Florida to California Road Trip

A road trip from Florida to California is the kind of adventure that stays with you forever. It is more than just crossing the country from East to West—it is a journey through different climates, cultures, and landmarks that make the United States so unique.

Whether you are heading to Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco, this guide covers how to reach California by road from Florida, the best places to stop, where to stay, and what to explore along the way.

1. How Far Is the Drive from Florida to California?

The distance from Florida to California depends on your starting point and final destination. A common route from Orlando, Florida to Los Angeles, California is about 2,500 to 2,700 miles. If you drive without any stops, the trip takes around 36 to 40 hours.

Recommended Trip Duration:

Plan for 7 to 14 days to truly enjoy the journey without rushing.

2. Best Route for a Florida to California Road Trip

There are multiple ways to drive from Florida to California, but the most scenic and practical route is via Interstate 10 (I-10). It runs from Jacksonville, FL to Santa Monica, CA, and passes through some amazing cities and landscapes.

Suggested Route:

Orlando → Tallahassee → Mobile → New Orleans → Houston → San Antonio → El Paso → Tucson → Phoenix → Los Angeles

This southern route keeps you in warmer climates and offers a wide variety of stops—from coastal cities to deserts and cultural hubs.

3. Must-Stop Cities and Attractions Along the Way

1. Tallahassee, Florida

Florida’s capital offers a calm start to the journey with green spaces and Southern charm.

Top picks:

Cascades Park
Florida Historic Capitol Museum

2. Mobile, Alabama

A small city with a rich history, seafood, and coastal vibes.

Things to do:

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
Mobile Bay Ferry

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

This is a must-stop for its food, music, and historic neighborhoods.

Explore:

French Quarter
Café du Monde for beignets
Live jazz at Frenchmen Street

4. Houston, Texas

A major city filled with culture, museums, and great food.

Visit:

Space Center Houston
Museum District
Local barbecue spots

5. San Antonio, Texas

A mix of old and new with great family-friendly spots.

Highlights:

The Alamo
River Walk
San Antonio Missions National Park

6. El Paso, Texas

A desert city on the edge of Texas that borders Mexico.

Things to do:

Scenic Drive Overlook
El Paso Museum of Art

7. Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona

Soak in the desert landscape, cacti views, and southwest vibes.

Must-sees:

Saguaro National Park
Downtown Tucson
Camelback Mountain in Phoenix

8. Palm Springs and Joshua Tree, California

Before you hit LA, spend a day or two in this peaceful desert area.

Visit:

Joshua Tree National Park
Downtown Palm Springs
Mid-century modern homes tour

4. Where to Stay on the Road

You will find plenty of budget-friendly hotels, motels, and Airbnb options on this route. Here are some ideas for different types of travelers:

Budget Travelers:

Motel 6
Red Roof Inn
Super 8

Families and Groups:

Holiday Inn Express
La Quinta Inns
Airbnb homes in suburbs

Unique Experiences:

Boutique hotels in New Orleans
Western-themed lodges in Arizona
Desert resorts in Palm Springs

Pro tip: Use booking apps like Hotels.com or Expedia to book stays one day in advance to keep your schedule flexible.

5. Food to Try During the Trip

You’ll pass through many regions with distinct flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:

Florida: Cuban sandwiches, Key lime pie
Alabama: Fried catfish, grits
Louisiana: Gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys
Texas: Brisket, breakfast tacos
Arizona: Sonoran hot dogs, green chile burritos
California: Avocado toast, street tacos, In-N-Out Burger

6. What to Pack for the Road Trip

A cross-country drive means changing weather and different environments. Make sure to bring:

Reusable water bottle
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Portable phone charger
Travel pillow and blanket
Light layers for changing climates
Snacks and a cooler
A good playlist or podcasts

7. Tips for a Smooth Drive

Keep your gas tank above half, especially in Texas and Arizona where gas stations are sparse.
Rotate drivers if traveling with others. Take breaks every 2 to 3 hours.
Download offline maps, especially before desert areas.
Plan buffer days in case of weather delays or spontaneous sightseeing.
Avoid driving late at night in rural or desert stretches.

8. Best Time of Year to Drive from Florida to California

The ideal time for this road trip is from March to May or September to November. These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists at major attractions.

Avoid peak summer if you are not comfortable driving in extreme heat, especially through Arizona and West Texas.

Final Thoughts: Why a Florida to California Road Trip Is Worth It

Driving from Florida to California is more than just a change of scenery—it is a journey across cultures, landscapes, and some of the best food in America. Whether you are heading out with friends, family, or solo, this trip has something for every kind of traveler.

The route is flexible, full of interesting stops, and easy to plan with this guide. So grab your keys, map out your route, and start the journey west—you will come back with unforgettable stories.

Affiliate Products:

1. Reusable Water Bottle

Product: PEXPO Craft Pro 1000

2. Travel Camera or Smartphone Gimbal

Product: Handheld Gimbal Stabiliser

3. Sunscreen for Outdoor Adventures

Product: Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen Gel