Mathew BenjaminFlorida is known for its beautiful coastlines, waterways, and islands, but with this unique geography comes the need for countless bridges. While many of them are admired for their architecture and views, some are considered the scariest bridges in Florida due to their daunting designs, extreme heights, and intimidating experiences. From towering suspension bridges to narrow drawbridges, each one carries its own challenges. For many drivers, crossing these structures is a nerve-wracking journey, but also an unforgettable adventure.
Top 20 Scariest Bridge in Florida
1. Seven Mile Bridge – Florida Keys
The Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys is often ranked as the scariest bridge in Florida due to its sheer length and exposure. Spanning over open water with no land in sight for miles, drivers often feel uneasy while crossing. High winds, storms, and the absence of protective barriers in some stretches add to the fear factor. Its narrow lanes and endless view of the ocean make this one of the most intimidating bridges in the state.
2. Sunshine Skyway Bridge – St. Petersburg
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge in St. Petersburg is considered one of the scariest bridges in Florida because of its extreme height and history. Rising 430 feet above Tampa Bay, the bridge can be terrifying during storms or heavy winds. Its tragic history of ship collisions, including a deadly accident in 1980, adds to its haunting reputation. The steep climb and breathtaking drop create a nerve-wracking experience, especially for drivers afraid of heights.
3. Bahia Honda Bridge – Big Pine Key
The old Bahia Honda Bridge in the Florida Keys is among the scariest bridges in Florida because of its deteriorating structure and eerie appearance. Although no longer in use for vehicles, its abandoned frame looms over U.S. 1, creating a ghostly atmosphere. For those who walk or boat near it, the rusty steel and jagged remnants bring a chilling reminder of Florida’s dangerous storm history and the risks of early bridge construction.
4. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Extension – Near Florida Border
Although mainly in Louisiana, the extension connecting to Florida is sometimes feared as one of the scariest bridges in Florida due to its endless drive over water. With minimal exits and no visible land for long stretches, many drivers report anxiety and panic. Fog, storms, and sudden traffic stops amplify the fear. For Floridians traveling west, this crossing is known as a test of nerves and endurance, ranking high among the state’s intimidating routes.
5. MacArthur Causeway Bridge – Miami
The MacArthur Causeway Bridge in Miami is another scariest bridge in Florida due to its congestion, sharp curves, and proximity to the ocean. Drivers often feel nervous with speeding traffic, narrow lanes, and heavy winds from Biscayne Bay. The bridge’s elevation provides sweeping views but also makes some motorists feel dizzy and unsafe. With constant tourist activity and accidents, it remains a feared yet unavoidable crossing for many in South Florida.
6. Venetian Causeway Bridge – Miami
The Venetian Causeway Bridge is often called one of the scariest bridges in Florida because of its drawbridge sections and unpredictable traffic. Many drivers fear being caught in the middle when the bridge opens for boats, leaving them suspended above the water. Its age and narrow lanes create added stress, especially at night or in poor weather. Despite offering stunning views of Miami’s skyline, the constant risk of delays and sudden openings terrifies many locals.
7. Rickenbacker Causeway Bridge – Miami
The Rickenbacker Causeway Bridge in Miami is a popular yet intimidating crossing. Known as one of the scariest bridges in Florida, it rises steeply over Biscayne Bay with little shoulder space. Cyclists, joggers, and drivers all share the road, adding to the chaos. During storms, winds whip across the structure, making vehicles feel unstable. The long stretch of open water beneath adds to the anxiety, particularly for those with height or water phobias.
8. Dames Point Bridge – Jacksonville
The Dames Point Bridge in Jacksonville, officially the Napoleon Bonaparte Broward Bridge, is one of the tallest cable-stayed bridges in the nation and widely feared as the scariest bridge in Florida. Its soaring towers rise 175 feet above the St. Johns River, making it intimidating for those afraid of heights. The steep climb and suspension-like design give a feeling of exposure, while strong winds make the crossing even more nerve-wracking for everyday commuters.
9. Matanzas Pass Bridge – Fort Myers Beach
The Matanzas Pass Bridge in Fort Myers Beach ranks among the scariest bridges in Florida because of its narrow design and heavy seasonal traffic. The bridge offers little room for error, and drivers often feel hemmed in by large trucks or buses. With steep inclines and sudden curves, it can feel unsafe, especially at night. The bridge also rises sharply over water, leaving some motorists anxious about its height and the limited safety barriers.
10. Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge – Clearwater
The Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge is a high-rise bridge that makes many drivers uneasy. Known as one of the scariest bridges in Florida, it climbs quickly over Clearwater Harbor with sweeping but dizzying views. The bridge is often packed with tourists, leading to sudden stops and erratic driving. Crosswinds and rainy weather make it especially dangerous. While the bridge is modern and scenic, its steep grade and exposure over water can cause panic in nervous drivers.
11. Courtney Campbell Causeway – Tampa
The Courtney Campbell Causeway is regarded as one of the scariest bridges in Florida because of its long stretches directly over Tampa Bay. The roadway feels exposed with water on both sides, leaving little margin for error. High-speed traffic, strong winds, and sudden storms make the drive more dangerous. At night, the absence of nearby land can feel unsettling for nervous drivers. Despite its beauty, the bridge challenges motorists with its vulnerability to weather and endless watery views.
12. Flagler Memorial Bridge – West Palm Beach
The Flagler Memorial Bridge in West Palm Beach is another scariest bridge in Florida that creates anxiety due to its drawbridge design. Drivers fear being stuck as the structure lifts to let boats pass. Heavy traffic combined with sudden stops and tight lanes adds to the stress. The bridge’s location near busy downtown streets also causes congestion. For many, the unpredictable delays and the sensation of being suspended above water make this a feared crossing.
13. Granada Bridge – Ormond Beach
The Granada Bridge in Ormond Beach is a steep, high-rise bridge that many consider one of the scariest bridges in Florida. It rises sharply over the Halifax River, providing breathtaking views that can overwhelm drivers uncomfortable with heights. The incline is intimidating, and once at the peak, the long descent feels almost like a roller coaster. Strong winds add to the tension, and at night the dark water beneath can make the crossing feel even more frightening.
14. Crescent Beach Bridge – St. Augustine
The Crescent Beach Bridge in St. Augustine is often listed among the scariest bridges in Florida due to its older design and drawbridge function. Drivers feel uneasy when forced to stop mid-bridge as it lifts for passing boats. Its narrow lanes and weathered structure create an added sense of instability. During storms or heavy winds, the crossing can be particularly nerve-racking. While it serves as a vital route, many locals admit it can be intimidating to drive across.
15. Roosevelt Bridge – Stuart
The Roosevelt Bridge in Stuart ranks among the scariest bridges in Florida because of its significant height and span over the St. Lucie River. The steep incline creates a daunting climb for drivers, while the long drop on either side adds to the unease. In 2020, cracks were discovered in the structure, sparking safety fears that still linger today. Many motorists report feeling nervous while crossing, especially when heavy trucks shake the bridge. Its towering design leaves lasting impressions of fear.
16. J.E.D. Bridge – Indiantown
The J.E.D. Bridge in Indiantown is a smaller yet unsettling structure considered one of the scariest bridges in Florida. Its narrow lanes, sharp approaches, and lack of modern safety barriers cause anxiety for drivers. Surrounded by wetlands and waterways, the isolation of the bridge adds to its eerie presence. At night, with limited lighting, the crossing feels even more dangerous. While not as tall as other bridges, its outdated design and lonely location make it an intimidating route.
17. Eau Gallie Causeway Bridge – Melbourne
The Eau Gallie Causeway Bridge in Melbourne is one of the scariest bridges in Florida due to its sharp climb and exposure over the Indian River Lagoon. High-speed traffic and minimal shoulders make it nerve-wracking, especially for inexperienced drivers. Winds sweeping across the water create an unsteady sensation, and during heavy storms, visibility drops drastically. Many drivers report gripping the wheel tightly during the climb and descent. Its reputation as a daunting drive is well known among locals.
18. Bonita Beach Causeway Bridges – Bonita Springs
The Bonita Beach Causeway Bridges collectively are counted among the scariest bridges in Florida because of their series of steep inclines and multiple water crossings. Drivers feel as though they are constantly exposed to open water with little room for mistakes. The bridges are narrow and often crowded with beach traffic. Sudden stops or boat-related delays heighten the tension. For visitors unfamiliar with the area, the constant climbs and drops create an unsettling experience that lingers long after crossing.
19. Astor Bridge – Astor
The Astor Bridge in Astor is a small drawbridge that many still rank among the scariest bridges in Florida. Its narrow design allows only one lane of traffic at a time, requiring vehicles to wait for their turn. Drivers often feel uneasy when stopped near the water or when the bridge raises to let boats pass. Its old-fashioned structure and limited safety features create an intimidating experience, particularly for those not used to one-lane bridges.
20. Hobe Sound Bridge – Hobe Sound
The Hobe Sound Bridge in Martin County is considered one of the scariest bridges in Florida because of its steep climb and aging design. The drawbridge frequently lifts for passing boats, leaving drivers suspended high above the Intracoastal Waterway. Traffic congestion and sudden stops add to the stress, while its isolated location makes it feel vulnerable during storms. Many locals view the bridge as functional but unnerving, especially for those who dislike heights or unpredictable crossings.
Reasons Why They Are The Scariest Bridge in Florida
- Extreme height that leaves drivers feeling exposed and vulnerable.
- Long stretches over water with no land visible for miles.
- Steep inclines and sharp descents that create roller coaster-like sensations.
- Narrow lanes and minimal safety barriers that increase anxiety.
- Heavy winds and storms that make vehicles feel unstable.
- Drawbridge designs that stop traffic and leave cars suspended above water.
- History of accidents or structural concerns that add to fear.
- Isolation or eerie surroundings that make the experience unsettling.
Benefits Attached to Visiting These Scariest Bridges in Florida
- Stunning panoramic views of Florida’s coastline, bays, and rivers.
- Unique photo opportunities for travelers and sightseers.
- Thrilling experiences that create unforgettable memories.
- Opportunities to learn about Florida’s engineering and history
- Access to popular destinations such as beaches, islands, and historic towns.
- A sense of accomplishment for conquering a personal fear of heights or water.
- Increased appreciation for Florida’s natural beauty and infrastructure.
Conclusion
The scariest bridges in Florida are more than just intimidating structures; they are a blend of breathtaking views, engineering marvels, and thrilling experiences. While some may cause anxiety with their height, length, or design, they also connect communities and open doors to some of Florida’s most beautiful destinations. For travelers and locals alike, crossing these bridges is both a test of courage and an opportunity to witness the state’s remarkable landscapes. Fearful or not, they remain unforgettable parts of Florida’s identity.