Florida’s tourism sector generated an estimated $134 billion in economic impact in 2025, as the state recorded a record 143 million visitors, according to Governor Ron DeSantis at the 2026 Governor’s Conference on Tourism in West Palm Beach. This marks an increase of roughly 38 million visitors compared to approximately 105 million in 2015.
Visitor spending on hotels, restaurants, attractions, and shopping contributed significant sales and tourism-related tax revenues, much of which is paid by non-residents. DeSantis linked this external revenue stream to enabling the state to reduce its budget for four consecutive years, quadruple its rainy-day fund, and work
toward nearly $10 billion in tax reductions over an eight-year period.
Geographic Tourism Highlights Across Florida
Tourism in Florida extends beyond Central Florida’s theme parks, with beaches ranging from Northwest Florida’s sugar-white sands to South Florida’s coastlines drawing visitors. Communities including Bradenton, Sarasota, Naples, and Fort Myers have attracted new investments following hurricane recoveries, with Mexico Beach cited as an example of renewed development after devastation from Hurricane Michael in 2018.
COVID-19 Policies and Sporting Events Supported Tourism Recovery
Florida’s decision to keep beaches accessible during the early COVID-19 pandemic supported tourism rebound, with popular destinations like Daytona Beach and Brevard County maintaining open recreational spaces. DeSantis recalled urging UFC President Dana White
to hold fight events in Florida, leading to UFC events in Jacksonville. Florida also hosted two Super Bowls, two college football national championships, the Daytona 500, and Formula One races in Miami during his administration.
Governor DeSantis Highlights Florida’s Tourism Strength
At the conference, Governor DeSantis said, “Florida is and remains and will continue to be the number one tourist destination in these United States.” He emphasized that tourism revenue supports the state tax base, enabling large tax cuts and significant reductions in state debt, with 52% of historical debt paid down during his tenure. DeSantis also noted that despite economic headwinds and geopolitical tensions, Florida’s
tourism numbers in 2026 remain just below 2025’s record performance.
Environmental Investments and Hurricane Recovery Aid Tourism
Florida invested nearly $10 billion in Everglades restoration under DeSantis’s administration, enhancing water quality and supporting tourism-related activities such as boating and fishing. The governor pointed to the state’s fast recovery from hurricanes as a factor attracting investment, contributing to sustained tourism growth in affected communities.
Major Events and Theme Park Expansions Fuel Visitation
Major sporting and cultural events continue to drive tourist numbers. Florida has hosted recurring marquee events including the Daytona 500, Art Basel in Miami, and Formula One races. Universal Orlando and Disney continue to expand their theme park investments, offering visitors options to spend
entire vacations within single resort complexes.
