I'm thinking of taking I-10 east out of Austin to US98 just outside of Mobile, Al all the way to Fl then US19 south. I have never been on 98 or been to the panhandle of Florida. Its about 600 mile on I-10 and 520 on 98 & 19. I'll be leaving Austin Thursday morning.
Morning, I believe that will be a good ride once you hit Hwy98 in Mobile to Pensacola.
I live right outside Pensacola and have take Hwy 98/27/19 many times to Tampa over the years but I try to avoid the summer ride on 98 east, especially with the beach traffic for 130 miles east of Pensacola. This time of year even w/ COVID19 can be pretty bad especally on a MC. I'd get back on I-10 in Pensacola go east to the Ponce de Leon exit, aprox80-85 miles. Head south SR181, nice road for about 20 miles to Hwy 20. Turn left East on 20, take across to Hwy231 then South to 98 again. It will be on the east side of Panama City and no beach traffic. Not too bad from there, you'll see where Hurricane Michael ripped up the area along 98East for many miles. 98East from Mexico Beach is known as the "Forgotten Hway". Nice ride though seeing the beach water many times and pleasent small fishing towns. I recommend hitting some of the local restaurants if you like or can eat fried fish, Great food for sure!
Take 98 to Perry and jump on 19 to Tampa.
That'd be how I'd do it. Let us know how your trip went. Be safe
