Explore the Sunshine State

For locals, Florida has always been the perfect winter getaway — a place where you can ditch your jacket and trade it for flip-flops in under three hours. Allegiant has just made it even easier to escape to the land of year-round summer with three new nonstop routes from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) to Fort Lauderdale, St. Pete/Tampa and Punta Gorda/Fort Myers. These flights open up quick access to Florida’s eclectic mix of beach vibes, quirky attractions and that magical combination of sunshine and humidity you forgot you missed. Happy travels, and don’t forget the sunscreen.

Fort Lauderdale

Known as the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is where urban sophistication goes hand-in-hand with flip-flops and beach vibes. With its famous canals, sun-kissed beaches, sleek luxury yachts and nightlife that keeps rolling like a wave, this sunny destination is ideal for those who want to mix a little glamour with their sandcastles. Treat yourself to upscale shopping, savor incredible cuisine, and dive into cultural gems —whether you’re chilling by the water or out exploring a city that’s decided sleep is overrated. And the best part? In December you can snag a nonstop flight from SAV to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) for as little as $78. Tropical paradise, here you come!

Airport to city

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is located just a few miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale. Travelers can take a 15-minute ride via rideshare or taxi, costing around $20. Alternatively, the Sun Trolley and Broward County Transit offer affordable and easy public transportation options.

Hot spots

• Las Olas Boulevard: Known for its vibrant shops, restaurants and galleries, this famous street is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
• Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: A historic estate offering a glimpse into early 20th-century Fort Lauderdale, with stunning gardens and art exhibits.
• Fort Lauderdale Beach Park: Relax and unwind on the city’s iconic beaches, or take a scenic walk along the promenade.
• Riverwalk: A picturesque waterfront area with plenty of cafes, bars and boutique shops.
• Everglades Holiday Park: For thrill-seekers, an airboat tour through the Everglades is a must, with the chance to see alligators in their natural habitat.
• Museum of Discovery and Science: Ideal for families, this museum offers interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater.

Travel tips

• Explore by water taxi: Skip the traffic and see the city from the water. The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi offers a unique and scenic way to get around, with stops at top attractions, restaurants and shopping districts. Grab a day pass to hop on and off as you like.
• Go beach-hopping: Don’t just stick to Fort Lauderdale Beach — check out nearby hidden gems like Lauderdale-by-the-Sea for a quieter, more laid-back vibe or Hollywood Beach for a classic boardwalk experience.
• Check out the local happy hours: Fort Lauderdale has a great happy hour scene, especially along the Intracoastal Waterway. Look for waterfront spots like Boatyard and Coconuts, where you can sip cocktails while watching the sunset over the water.
• Visit During the Winterfest Boat Parade: If you’re visiting Dec. 14, don’t miss the annual Winterfest Boat Parade — a holiday spectacle of brightly decorated yachts and boats cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s a local favorite and a fun way to get into the festive spirit.
• Eat like a local: For the freshest seafood, skip the touristy spots and head to local favorites like 15th Street Fisheries or Southport Raw Bar for delicious, laid-back meals by the water. Don’t leave without trying stone crab claws if they’re in season (Oct. 15-May 1). 
• Explore the art scene: Fort Lauderdale has a surprisingly vibrant arts scene. Check out the NSU Art Museum and the Flagler Village Arts District, known for its monthly ArtWalk featuring local artists, galleries and street performers.

St. Pete/Tampa

St. Petersburg and Tampa are like the dynamic duo of Florida’s Gulf Coast — a perfect mix of culture, history and just the right amount of laid-back beach vibes. Famous for jaw-dropping sunsets, quirky arts districts and world-class museums, this area is a paradise for beach lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re strolling down St. Pete’s iconic pier, soaking in the salty breeze or diving into the quirky charm of Tampa’s historic Ybor City, there’s always something new to discover. In December, you can hop on a nonstop flight from SAV to St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE) for as little as $78 — leaving you with plenty of extra cash for flip-flops and beach cocktails. 

Airport to city

Arriving at St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport, travelers can take a 20-minute rideshare to downtown St. Petersburg for around $25. Public transport options include the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) buses, which offer convenient service from the airport to the city center.

Hot spots 

• The Dali Museum: Housing the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s works outside Europe, this museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
• Sunken Gardens: A 100-year-old botanical paradise with exotic plants and peaceful paths.
• Clearwater Beach: A stunning stretch of white sand and clear blue waters, ideal for sunbathing and water activities.
• St. Pete Pier: A newly renovated landmark with restaurants, shops and a playground, offering scenic views of the bay.
• Florida Aquarium: Perfect for a family-friendly day out, featuring a diverse collection of marine life.
• Busch Gardens: A thrilling amusement park, combining exciting rides with a world-class zoo.

Travel tips

• Take the free downtown Looper in St. Pete: Save on gas and parking by hopping on the free Downtown Looper Trolley in St. Pete. It’s a great way to see the city’s top attractions, from the Dali Museum to the lively Central Avenue.
• Visit Ybor City for more than just cigars: Tampa’s Ybor City is known for its cigar heritage, but it’s also the place to find some of the best Cuban food in Florida. Stop by Columbia Restaurant for a classic Cuban sandwich and don’t miss the nightly flamenco shows.
• Explore the murals in St. Pete: The city is famous for its street art scene, with over 500 murals scattered throughout. Take a self-guided mural tour in the Warehouse Arts District and snap some Instagram-worthy shots that’ll make your friends jealous.
• Visit a local brewery: The craft beer scene is booming, so make time to visit breweries like Green Bench Brewing Co. in St. Pete or Cigar City Brewing in Tampa. Beer lovers, you’re in paradise.
• Take the Cross-Bay Ferry for a scenic shortcut: Traveling between St. Pete and Tampa? Ditch the traffic and take the Cross-Bay Ferry. It’s a scenic 50-minute ride that gets you across the bay with a view (and without the stress of traffic).
• Try grouper everywhere: You haven’t truly visited the Gulf Coast until you’ve tasted grouper. Whether it’s a blackened grouper sandwich at a beach shack or grouper tacos at a local eatery, this local favorite is a must-try. You’ll understand why locals rave about it. 

Punta Gorda/Ft. Myers

For those craving a taste of Old Florida — think more relax-and-recharge and less theme-park hustle — Punta Gorda and Fort Myers are the perfect escape. Picture wandering the charming streets of Punta Gorda’s historic district or kicking back on the blissfully serene shores of Sanibel and Captiva Islands, where the biggest decision you’ll face is whether to swim, fish or just sip something cold. This is where nature lovers, boaters and anyone with a well-worn hammock find their happy place. In December you can snag a nonstop flight from SAV to Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) for just $78.

Airport to city

Punta Gorda Airport is located just outside Punta Gorda, with a quick 10-minute rideshare or taxi ride to the city center, costing around $15. For those heading to Fort Myers, it’s about a 45-minute drive, with shuttle services available from the airport.

Hot spots 

• Fishermen’s Village: A lively waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment center in Punta Gorda.
• Edison and Ford Winter Estates: Explore the historic homes and gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford in Fort Myers.
• Cayo Costa State Park: An undeveloped barrier island offering pristine beaches and stunning natural beauty.
• Sanibel Island: Famous for its shell-covered beaches and wildlife refuges.
• Captiva Island: A tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, wildlife and breathtaking sunsets,
• Downtown Punta Gorda: A charming area with colorful murals, shops and waterfront parks.

Travel tips

• Don’t miss Cabbage Key: Take a boat trip to Cabbage Key, a quirky island rumored to have inspired Jimmy Buffett’s “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Enjoy a cheeseburger at the island’s famous restaurant, where the walls are covered in dollar bills left by previous diners.
• Bike the Legacy Trail: Rent a bike, and explore the scenic Legacy Trail in Punta Gorda, which offers a peaceful ride through shady palms and old Florida landscapes. Pack a picnic, and enjoy the ride at your own pace.
• Hit the farmers markets early: Punta Gorda’s Saturday Farmers Market is a local favorite, offering everything from fresh produce to unique crafts. Arrive early for the best selection, as the crowds pick the tables clean by mid-morning.
• Shell collecting on Sanibel: Sanibel Island is world-famous for its shelling, so don’t leave without trying the “Sanibel Stoop” — the bent-over stance locals adopt while searching for treasures. The best time to collect shells is early morning, especially after a low tide or a storm.
• Book a boat tour: Join a local eco-tour to see dolphins playing in the wake or manatees lazily floating by. Tours often leave from Pine Island or Fort Myers Beach, and a sunset cruise adds a bit of magic to the experience.
• Save room for seafood: You’re on the Gulf Coast, so seafood is a must. Try local spots like Peace River Seafood in Punta Gorda for a no-frills crab shack experience or Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille in Fort Myers for fresh fish tacos and waterfront views.