How to Brunch in Florida

How to Brunch in Florida - Picnic Brunch

Florida is certainly having a moment, with its popularity on the rise. From city to shore, Florida has beautiful beaches, lots of sunshine and plenty of picturesque scenery to take in while sipping on a mimosa or two – maybe three if the heat has you really thirsty. 

Today, we’re here to share the best ways to #brunchanywhere in Tampa, Miami and Jacksonville.

foreground shows the edge of a tiki bar roof with the ocean and a barge in the distance

Brunch on the Water

When people think of Florida, the state’s coastal beaches and clear waters usually come to mind. Luckily, you don’t have to be on land to brunch in Florida. Throughout the state, there are countless boat charters available to enjoy brunch among the waves. You can even rent out one of the unique Cruisin’ Tikis to float along the coast of Tampa Bay, Miami, Jacksonville and several other locations, but they are BYOPB (Bring Your Own Picnic Brunch). Whether exploring the Hillsborough River with a view of the downtown Tampa skyline or cruising the energetic coast of South Beach, there are endless options for a breezy picnic brunch on the water.

image of the St. Petersburg Pier

Brunch by the Shore

If your sea-legs need a break, Florida’s coastlines offer countless parks with scenic water views. Brunch-goers can pack a basket and get away from the hustle of the city at Huguenot Memorial Park. This oceanfront park has serene, white sand beaches and stunning sunrises. The park is just a short drive from Jacksonville and a beautiful spot to lay out a blanket and enjoy a relaxing brunch.

In central Florida, Vinoy Park in downtown St. Pete has plenty of palm trees to sit in the shade and maybe even spot a dolphin or two. Those wanting to make a day of it can explore the nearby St. Pete Pier for a relaxing walk over the water. 

For picnic brunch lovers in south Florida, Brickell Key just off the coast of downtown Miami has a waterfront park with gorgeous views of the skyscrapers lining the shore. Although the park is so close to downtown, it still offers a peaceful atmosphere for a quiet brunch.


Brunch in the City

Prefer city-life? Florida has the best of both worlds, with an array of perfect picnic locations in the cities. James Weldon Johnson Park in downtown Jacksonville offers an urban feel for a picnic in the park. The park is located in the center of the city and if you choose the right day, you may be able to have brunch and a show with the live entertainment in the park.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in Tampa is located right on the Hillsborough River with views of the towering buildings and iconic Tampa minarets of the historic Henry B. Plant Museum. Take a walk down a stretch of the Riverwalk or a ride on the Pirate Water Taxi to one of Tampa’s most popular food spots, Armature Works. This food-court style dining spot has plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas to grab a bite to eat and sip on Picnic Brunch with a downtown view.

Enjoy a secret oasis in Miami at Simpson Park. Although the park is located in one of the busiest areas of Miami, it serves as a nature preserve with walking trails and endangered plants. Plenty of picnic tables are offered in the area, making it a great location to sit and relax in the center of a bustling city.

No matter which side of Florida you prefer, you are just steps away from a beautiful picnic location. With consistent warm weather, sunshine and a refreshing Picnic Brunch drink, packing a picnic brunch is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Florida.