Help with our itinerary

Question

Hi all…

Looking for feedback on out itinerary…We will be in Miami for 3 nights and then want to drive up to singer island and stay at the Marriott for a night before headed west to Sanibel.

I’ve heard the traffic is really bad so we’re planning on leaving Miami early morning

We want to go to the Flagler museum and maybe do a little snorkeling. Any recommended places?

Does this sound reasonable?

Answer

Your itinerary sounds reasonable, though a few adjustments and tips can help make it smoother, especially regarding traffic and activities.

Miami Stay (3 nights): You’ll have plenty of time to explore South Beach, Wynwood, Little Havana, and possibly take a day trip to the Everglades if desired. Try to plan sightseeing in the mornings or late afternoons to avoid midday heat and crowds.

Drive to Singer Island: Leaving early from Miami is a good strategy since traffic can be heavy on I-95, especially around Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach areas. Early departure (around 6-7 am) will help you avoid the worst of it.

Flagler Museum: Located in Palm Beach, the Flagler Museum is a must-see. It usually takes about 1-2 hours to tour the mansion and gardens. Plan your timing so you can comfortably arrive without rushing.

Snorkeling Options Near Palm Beach/Singer Island:

Blue Heron Bridge (Singer Island): A very popular shore snorkeling spot with calm waters and abundant marine life. Excellent for beginners and those without a boat.
Peanut Island: Accessible via a short boat ride or kayak, with clear waters and good snorkeling along the reefs.
Snorkel Charters from Palm Beach: Companies like Sailfish Marina offer guided trips if you prefer not to snorkel from shore.

Drive West to Sanibel: This is a longer drive (around 3.5-4 hours from Singer Island), so plan to leave mid-morning if you want to avoid traffic and have time for a stop along the way. Sanibel has excellent beaches for shelling and some of the best snorkeling spots in Southwest Florida.

Overall, your plan is doable. Key tips:

Leave early from Miami to minimize traffic delays.
Plan Flagler Museum and nearby attractions in the morning.
For snorkeling, consider Blue Heron Bridge for convenience or a short charter if you prefer deeper waters.
Expect longer driving times westward; stops for food or quick sightseeing along the way can make the trip more pleasant.

With these adjustments, your itinerary balances sightseeing, beach time, and travel without feeling too rushed.