Most Scenic Route from West Melbourne to Tampa

Question

Hello, everyone. We are planning to drive from West Melbourne to Tampa next weekend, and we are looking for a good scenic route. The amount of time is not very important, we just want a beautiful and scenic drive. Thank you. P.S.: To those who previously responded to my question for a route from Melbourne to Orlando, I am sorry I'm sort of switching it up on you all, but we have decided to instead drive to Tampa and stay 1 night there at a hotel. We will be doing a few different things, so there is not one single place we will be driving to.

Answer

Driving from West Melbourne to Tampa offers several scenic options if you prioritize natural beauty, waterways, and charming small towns over the fastest route. Since time is not a concern, you can enjoy a leisurely drive with opportunities to stop for sightseeing, nature, and local cuisine along the way.

Option 1: Coastal & Nature Route via US-1 and A1A

This route takes you along the east coast of Florida for a while before cutting westward through central Florida, giving you ocean views, rivers, and small-town charm.

Start on US-1 north from West Melbourne toward Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral for a short detour and ocean views.
Optional stop at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge or Kennedy Space Center for nature and wildlife spotting.
Head west on FL-528 (Beachline Expressway) toward Orlando, passing over the St. Johns River and through scenic suburban areas.
From Orlando, take FL-50 west through smaller towns like Winter Garden and Clermont, which feature rolling hills, lakes, and farmland.
Continue west via US-301 or I-75 toward Tampa, offering views of central Florida’s rural landscapes.

Option 2: Lake & Small Town Route via FL-528 and FL-50

This inland route focuses on lakes, orange groves, and small-town charm in central Florida.

From West Melbourne, take I-95 north briefly, then switch to FL-528 west (toll road, scenic and fast) past Cocoa and Rockledge.
Stop at Lake Apopka or Clermont area for scenic lake views and short hikes.
Continue west on FL-50, passing through Ocoee, Winter Garden, and other historic towns with boutique shops and local eateries.
Head toward the Tampa Bay area via US-301 or continue on FL-50 to connect with I-75 for the last stretch.

Option 3: Eco & Wildlife Scenic Detours

If you enjoy nature, consider adding short detours along rivers and state parks.

Stop at Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando for a short walk or picnic.
Consider a detour through the Green Swamp area (near Polk City) for wetlands scenery and wildlife spotting.
Drive along the Hillsborough River from Plant City as you approach Tampa for a picturesque riverside drive.

Additional Tips for a Scenic Drive:

Start early to enjoy morning light over lakes and rivers.
Pack snacks and drinks for picnic stops at parks or lakesides.
Check traffic updates, especially around Orlando and Tampa, since scenic routes often pass through busy suburban areas.
Allow time for spontaneous stops — small-town shops, diners, and lookout points often provide memorable experiences.

Overall, combining parts of these routes gives you a mix of coastal views, wildlife, lakes, and charming towns. The inland route via FL-50 and US-301 tends to be particularly scenic for a relaxed drive and offers multiple opportunities to explore on the way to Tampa.

Most Scenic Route from West Melbourne to Tampa

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