Orlando, Florida, August 31, 2025
News Summary
A recent survey has named the Pali Highway in Hawaii as the most scenic drive in the U.S., while Florida’s I-95 from St. Augustine to Jacksonville ranks 11th. The survey highlights scenic views and road experiences, reflecting Florida’s unique architecture and landscapes. Simultaneously, Central Florida faces a spell of stormy weather with rain chances increasing ahead of the Labor Day weekend, urging travelers to prepare for wet roads and reduced visibility.
Orlando — A national survey of commuters has ranked the most scenic stretches of highway in the United States, placing a Hawaii route at the top and naming Interstate 95 from St. Augustine to Jacksonville as Florida’s highest-rated drive at No. 11, while Central Florida braces for a period of stormy weather ahead of the Labor Day weekend.
Top findings and immediate impacts
The study, conducted by Quantrell Volvo and based on responses from 3,105 commuters, identified the Pali Highway from Kailua to Honolulu, Hawaii as the nation’s top-rated scenic drive. The Pali Highway is noted for lush landscapes, misty cliffs, thick rainforests and ocean views that resemble postcard imagery.
In Florida, the highest-ranked route is the St. Augustine to Jacksonville stretch on I-95, listed at No. 11 nationally. That drive is highlighted for Spanish-style architecture, coastal marshlands and oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Another Florida route, Winter Park to Orlando via Interstate 4, placed No. 19 and is described as offering views of scenic lakes, upscale neighborhoods and the Orlando skyline, along with distant views of theme parks despite occasional congestion.
At the same time, Central Florida is experiencing unsettled weather caused by a stationary front. Scattered rain occurred over the weekend and rain chances for Sunday are expected to rise from 50% to 70%, particularly in the afternoon and evening. Forecasts call for rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches in some areas with a concern for minor flooding. The wet pattern is expected to continue into midweek with elevated rain chances.
Details from the commute rankings
The commuter survey asked respondents to name their favorite stretches of highway and to describe what made those routes enjoyable. Respondents highlighted natural scenery, unique roadside architecture and memorable skyline or coastal views. The Pali Highway topped the list for its combination of rainforest, rugged cliffs and ocean outlooks. Florida’s entries were valued for their mix of historic architecture, water views and urban skylines, even where traffic can reduce the driving experience at peak times.
Weather outlook and practical effects
Central Florida’s weather pattern includes a stationary front that has produced scattered showers. Forecast models indicate rain chances will be higher during afternoon and evening hours through the weekend and into the following week. Weather hazards to monitor include minor flooding from heavy downpours, gusty winds, lightning and localized impacts to outdoor travel and recreational plans.
Temperatures are projected to remain slightly below normal for the season, generally in the upper 80s Fahrenheit, which still feels warm. Beach waters are warm at about 84°F, and beachgoers should plan for possible rain and continue standard sun protection due to a high UV index. There is a low but nonzero chance of brief, weak tornadoes in northern parts of the region over the weekend. Forecasters currently report no tropical threats to Central Florida associated with this pattern.
Timing and expectations for Labor Day weekend
For the upcoming Labor Day weekend, mornings are expected to be the most favorable window for outdoor activities, while afternoon and evening hours will carry the greater risk of showers and thunderstorms. Travelers using Florida’s scenic routes should be prepared for periods of reduced visibility and wet roads during rainy periods, and motorists should allow extra travel time where flooding or heavy rain is possible.
Background and context
The Quantrell Volvo commuter survey provides a snapshot of driver preferences by collecting input from a broad group of commuters about memorable and enjoyable drives. Rankings emphasize scenic beauty, roadside features and overall driving experience. Nationally, the Pali Highway’s top placement underscores a preference for routes that combine dramatic natural features with accessible driving corridors. Florida’s entries reflect both coastal and urban aesthetic qualities, along with common regional travel challenges like congestion and afternoon thunderstorms.
Key takeaways
- Pali Highway (Kailua to Honolulu) is the nation’s top-rated scenic drive.
- I-95 (St. Augustine to Jacksonville) is Florida’s highest-ranked stretch at No. 11.
- I-4 (Winter Park to Orlando) ranks at No. 19 and offers lakes, neighborhoods and skyline views.
- Central Florida faces a spell of stormy weather with increased rain chances (50–70%), rainfall totals of 1–3 inches in places, minor flooding risk and a low chance of brief tornadoes in northern areas.
- Mornings over the Labor Day weekend should be more favorable for outdoor plans; afternoons are more likely to see storms.
FAQ
What routes in Florida made the national list?
Florida’s top-ranked route is Interstate 95 from St. Augustine to Jacksonville (No. 11). Another Florida route, Interstate 4 between Winter Park and Orlando, ranked No. 19.
How was the national ranking determined?
The ranking comes from a Quantrell Volvo survey of 3,105 commuters who identified their favorite stretches of highway and described what made those routes enjoyable.
What weather should Central Florida residents expect before Labor Day?
A stationary front is producing scattered rain. Rain chances will increase to about 50–70% in the afternoons and evenings, with localized rainfall totals of 1–3 inches and minor flooding possible. Temperatures will be in the upper 80s, and the region should expect afternoon storms through midweek and into the holiday weekend.
Are there any tropical threats expected?
No tropical threats are currently expected for Central Florida in this forecast period.
What safety steps should drivers and beachgoers take?
Drivers should allow extra time for travel, watch for standing water and reduce speed during heavy rain. Beachgoers should be aware of changing conditions, plan for possible rain in the afternoon, and use sun protection due to a high UV index despite cloud cover.
Quick comparison: Florida route rankings and current storm metrics
| Item | Rank / Value | Visual |
|---|---|---|
| I-95 (St. Augustine to Jacksonville) | No. 11 | |
| I-4 (Winter Park to Orlando) | No. 19 | |
| Pali Highway (Kailua to Honolulu) | No. 1 | |
| Sunday rain chance (Central Florida) | 50% → 70% | |
| Expected rainfall (some areas) | 1–3 in | |
| Beach water temperature | 84°F |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Arnold Palmer Invitational Begins in Orlando
Discover the Best Golfing in Central Florida: Your Ultimate Guide
Additional Resources
- Click Orlando: Central Florida Faces Elevated Rain and Storm Chances
- Fox 35 Orlando: Orlando Weather Forecast
- My News 13: Central Florida Severe Weather Live Updates
- WESH: Labor Day Weekend Weather 2025
- Click Orlando: Rains Pile Up Across Central Florida
- Wikipedia: Weather
- Google Search: Weather in Florida
- Google Scholar: Extreme Weather Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- Google News: Florida Weather Alerts
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
