Florida breaks tourism records in first quarter 2016

MANATEE -- Florida tourism set a new record in the first quarter of 2016, with 29.8 million tourists visiting the Sunshine State -- a 4.8 percent increase over the same time last year, Gov. Rick Scott announced Monday in Clearwater.

"I'm thrilled that Florida continues to break records in the amount of tourists visiting our state," Scott said in a prepared statement. "Nearly 30 million visitors have enjoyed our beautiful beaches and attractions so far this year, and a record high of more than 1.2 million Floridians are employed in the tourism industry.

"Last year, we exceeded our goal of an historic 105 million visitors because of Florida's unique national treasures, and I look forward to smashing our record again this year by welcoming 115 million visitors to the Sunshine State," the governor added.

The announcement comes two weeks after Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, spoke about the same topic at the bureau's National Tourism Week luncheon.

"For five years now we've had a record break in visitation," Falcione said at the luncheon. "Well guess what? It's all through Florida. It's not just us."

According to tourist tax data from the Manatee County Tax Collector's office, the

Bradenton area is on track to set records again this year.

All three months of the first quarter 2016 were stronger than 2015 and the year-over-year increase so far totals almost $480,000.

"Given the challenges our industry is facing -- the strong dollar's impact on Canada and issues in Brazil -- this record quarter for Florida tourism is even more exciting," said Will Seccombe, president and CEO of Visit Florida, in the news release. "It's further proof that tourism marketing works. Our strategy of showcasing both the familiar and off-the-beaten-path travel opportunities remind potential visitors that, while Florida is filled with destinations they know and can trust, there is always more to discover."

This story was originally published May 16, 2016 at 8:56 PM with the headline "Florida breaks tourism records in first quarter 2016 ."