Cheerfully referred to as the 'Sunshine State', Florida has long been a popular destination with those in search of sun and adventure. On your vacation in Florida, you'll have the unique opportunity to visit small and remote towns like Apalachicola or buzzing metropolitan areas such as Miami – the choice is all yours.

But whatever it is that you'd like to do when you stay in Florida; we've come up with some things that you simply have to see and do, starting with a little sightseeing.

Enjoy the city life

A great example of modern meets old, Florida's very own capital of Tallahassee promises a cultured experience for the whole family. But if it's action that you're after, Orlando is perfect for the kids. It boasts theme parks including the world-famous Disney World and Universal Studios, or why not splash out on a day at Sea World?

Another must-see metropolis is the increasingly popular Jacksonville. It not only boasts miles of unravelling coastline, but it's only a short journey from the seaport of Tampa; one of the state's up and coming business hubs.

Experience country delights

What makes cheap Florida breaks so special is the fact that you can dine out on the freshest seafood, and then work off calories on any of its award winning golf courses. And you can even go for a ride on one of its breathtaking cycle routes, or really chase the thrill on a kayaking trip.

A far cry from the crawling traffic here in the UK, you'll just love a peaceful drive along Florida's sandy coastlines. Lined with rows of charming seaside cottages, your everyday stresses will become a distant memory. And if you enjoy the great outdoors, then central Florida has just about everything you need.  The hills there are peppered with lush citrus groves, and if you're lucky enough you might be able to pick yourself a ripe lemon or a juicy grapefruit.

Get a taste of Florida

A real treat for your taste buds, Florida is brimming with fresh fruit - it's just about everywhere you go. And owing to 8,000 miles of oceanfront, the state is also well-known for its sea-food, so you'll do well to pay a visit to any of its many award-winning seafood restaurants.

Florida – life's a beach

Unwind while the kids have the time of their lives on any of Florida's beautiful beaches. And if there's one place you should see, it's the stunning Virginia Key. Find out first-hand why the producers of the hit-show Lost choose to film scenes there; it's unspoilt and a real hit with families.

Bill Baggs in Cape Florida also has 1 ¼ miles of golden sand and breathtaking animal and plant life. But If you'd prefer to just top up your tan, then Haulover beach won't disappoint. Plus as a bonus for those who are of a naughtier persuasion, this one is clothes optional.

Why should you choose Florida as your holiday destination for 2012?

You're only issue will be in deciding what to do on your holidays to Florida. It's family friendly and offers a great mix of city and country life. Florida accommodation is also second to none, and you'll find a whole host of fantastic vacation deals in the sunshine state. Take the Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa for example. Located on State Road 535 in Lake Buena Vista, it offers you two large swimming areas and a themed pool for the children. This comes complete with water cannons, pirate ship, and a whole range of facilities and activities to keep them occupied. Great for unwinding after a long day in the sun, it's got a relaxing hot tub and a fitness suite, too. What's also perfect for you and the kids is the Maingate Lakeside Resort. It offers three huge swimming areas, two children's pool, and an impressive 18-hole mini golf course.

So why not plan your trip of a lifetime today, and book a fantastic family holiday to Florida.