3 reasons Florida should be your winter escape this year
Florida isn’t just a state; it’s a state of mind. From sun-soaked beaches and palm-lined boardwalks to vibrant nightlife and hidden natural gems, it’s the ultimate escape from the grey chill of Canadian winters and the rest of life’s stressors.
And while Florida may already be a hit amongst Canadian snowbirds, it’s gaining popularity among younger crowds too.
According to data collected by XBorder Canada, the average age of Canadian travellers has dropped from 49 in 2019 to 45 in 2024, with travellers ages 18 to 39 making up a larger share of those planning a Florida trip.
So, what’s behind this new wave of wanderlust? Here are three reasons why young Canadians are embracing Florida — and why you’ll want to follow suit.
Following the sunshine
VISIT FLORIDA encourages Canadians to “Follow Your Sunshine.” On one hand, that can mean embracing your own version of a Florida vacation, letting go of your worries, pushing away the day-to-day grind, and giving in to your best instincts.
On the other hand, you can take that literally and trade your snow shovels for sandy toes. Winters in Florida average in the mid-to-late teens, and while temperatures can vary by region, it’s ultimately a stark contrast to snowy Toronto. When the cold weather starts feeling endless, that’s when you need a vacation the most.
Outdoor adventures
Florida goes so much deeper than spring break and leisurely lounging (although there’s nothing wrong with either of those). The Sunshine State is an outdoor playground waiting to be explored year-round.
Paddle the breathtaking beaches of South Walton, Seaside, Miramar, and Grayton Beach all year long, fly amongst the trees at the Canyons Zip Lines & Adventure Park in Ocala/Marion County, explore the geological mysteries at Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna, or snorkel the third-largest barrier reef in the world, Florida Reef Tract.
And if you’ve never met a Florida manatee — it’s time. In Homosassa Springs on Florida’s central Gulf Coast, visitors can watch these gentle “sea cows” glide through the water from the underwater observatory at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park — no wetsuit required.
Wherever your adventures take you, expect to come away with memories to last a lifetime.
Ways to relax
Ultimately, the point of a vacation is to relax, and Florida’s laid-back energy makes it the perfect place to do just that.
From beachside picnics on sugar-white sands to wandering the neon wonderland that is FloridaRAMA in St. Pete, you can take things at your own pace, prioritizing time to simply be.
And among the friendly locals and fellow travellers, you’re sure to feel as welcome as you do here in the Great White North.
A good vacation has the power to make you feel you’re exactly where you need to be. Follow Your Sunshine, and check out the VISIT FLORIDA website to start planning your dream getaway.
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