Pine Island is the largest island off the Gulf coast of Florida and located just 30 minutes from Fort Myers. The park offers swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing in some parts of its beautiful blue springs. Caves in Florida? Ive been to almost all US states but somehow have never made it to Florida so its high on my list! They are open year-round, but summer months are particularly hot so you wont see as much wildlife. This is a perfect diving expedition for trained scuba divers. Bok Tower Gardens is a National Historic Landmark located in Lake Wales, Florida. Ocala National Forest spans over 600 square miles of northern Florida, and is bursting with activities for any time of year. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. For anyone sick of hearing that visiting Florida is solely about exploring Walt Disney World, this list is for you. There are some stunning public beaches (with free parking), and it felt like a hidden gem on it's own. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of my favorite places to bring the kids; the mermaids are back! 3. Be sure to also grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, Cornell Cafe, which was featured on the Food Network! Rainbow River State Park is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Florida for those seeking a serene outdoor oasis featuring 10,000 year old sapphire-blue waters, ornamental gardens, waterfalls, and mossy covered trees. This park on Key Biscayne is home to the Cape Florida Light (the oldest standing structure in Miami), was a stop on the Underground Railroad, and has one of the best beaches in the country. Florida Caverns State Park is located three miles north of Marianna on State Road 166, and is a great camping and day trip destination. Why go: Great camping on a beautiful lake with many options for hiking, biking and paddling. } Sarasota is a beautiful city to visit on the west coast of Florida. Rent canoes at the headsprings to strike off on your own expedition, or swim in the designated areas. Either take a passenger ferry or rent your own private boat from the dock at Honeymoon Island to reach this magical place. The shrine is located steps away from St. Augustine's historic city gates at St. George Street, Florida. The City of St. Augustine is known by many Floridians for its historical sights. Universal Studios is comprised of themed areas, rides, and experiences. The ferry provides a morning snack, lunch, and showers so that people can snorkel and rinse off. They have numerous animals to view and learn about, such as baby alligators, turtles, tortoises, lizards, and other marine life. Near the Georgia border, this way out-of-the-way park is located where the Flint River and the Chattahoochee combine to form Lake Seminole above a dam. Juno Beach is one of my favorite places to visit in Florida. Tucked away along the Atlantic Coast of South Florida, Martin County offers an authentic slice of paradise, blending seaside allure with a dash of Key West whimsy and true "Old Florida" charm. . Lake Monroe is a charming lake that can be accessed from Sanford, DeBary, and Deltona. This hidden gem boasts over 22 miles of uncrowded beaches and more than 100,000 sprawling acres of parks and conservation lands. Florida Caverns State Park is the place to go see Florida's natural and historic . Cow Key is an offshoot from Key West and is an amazing place to try something new. This offers a breath-taking opportunity to pass them at a closer distance. The forests boast versatile and diverse terrain, from palm-filled oases to sand pine flatlands and prairie wetlands. Falling Waters near Chipley, FL, is home to the tallest waterfall (and one of very few, period) in the state of Florida. Sanibel Island, Florida (Photo courtesy of Victoria from Florida Trippers) Sanibel Island, Florida. They are open seven days a week from 9:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. EST. Palma Sola Bay is located on Anna Maria Island. It is rich with detail and has buildings designed after locations in the movies, such as Gringotts Wizarding Bank and Diagon Alley. Butterfly Dans is a butterfly breeding farm in Kissimmee, Florida. Going kayaking to this paradise is considered one of the best things to do in Florida. Explore the Ten Thousand Island Wildlife Refugee, 7. Caladesi Island is one of the best beaches in the country and one of the few in Florida that have been kept completely natural. Kayak To See the Bioluminescent is an Off Beaten Path in Florida, 15. Universal Studios in Florida is a thriving and active place to go for family fun. Get more stories delivered right to your email. This center for Japanese culture in Palm Beach County is unique and serene, offering Japanese tea ceremonies, a bonsai garden, festivals, classes, and a superb gift shop and cafe. You can enjoy the local seafood restaurants, try Hogfish, rent jet skis and kayaks, and enjoy the shops and other experiences and views near or in Key West. There are also shallow areas ideal for snorkeling at Elkhorn and Boulder Corals. Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! The Singing Tower was constructed next to a reflection pool and is surrounded by a koi pond moat. Located along the California coast in Mendocino County lies the historic town of Fort Bragg. Meet my friend Rafiki at the giraffe feeding station. 4) Shop at a Local Farmer's Market. Chris Cook-Leitz has worked in the travel industry since 2008 and opened her own travel advisor company in 2015. It stretches for 4 miles from the North tip of the Island to Dunedin Pass. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. 2. Put on your fancy pants and head to this tres chic cafe in Jacksonville that has been an icon for over 20 years. Now children and adults in the area alike come out here on hot summer days. Stretching 59 acres, it was constructed by the Works Progress Administration and boasts cypress buildings, rock gardens and fieldstone terraces. The area is home to many diverse types of coral, like brain or star coral. Pack up your sunscreen and camera, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Florida. Stop in at the visitor center to learn about the wildlife here or to check out their aquariums, snake exhibits or the diamondback terrapin enclosure. 4. Try searching for a travel destination. A weekend can see up to 400 people! On Maui, there plenty of off-the-beaten-track and hidden gems that only the locals know. Head further down the Rainbow River to go tubing, and bring your hiking shoes to hit the trails, or your bike if you are a cyclist. TOP TIPS FOR RIDING A HORSE AT THE PALMA SOLA BAY, ACCOMMODATION: Renting a beach houseon Anna Maria Island is the best way to explore the area. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. They provide earmuffs and inform you when to use them. Bring your own bottle of wine (there is no corkage fee) and be sure to make reservations in advance to be sure that you dont miss out on this dining experience. The park offers passes with a discount for Florida residents and a discount if you buy annual passes too. Home Travel Guides United States Florida (FL) 30 Amazing Hidden Gems in Florida. If you have a National Park Pass, they will refund you the money you pay for admission to the park once you present your pass. It's located in Florida, United States.Melbourne's Hidden Gem it back in action!! Cow Key is a quiet destination at night, allowing you to listen to the ocean as you relax in your houseboat. Not really a hidden gem in Florida but no Florida list is complete without a mention of Universal Studios! 2. Home to the only air-filled caves open to the public in Florida, be sure to explore and take a cave tour to see the stunning limestone formations, soda straws and draperies. Just make sure you do your research, as sadly, some operators are more ethical and devoted than others. Located on Powers Avenue, the quality of the bread is so good that The French Pantry also supplies to other local eateries. You can easily drive there and park in one of the fields parking lots. Come on back to this heavenly park and pick up another smiley! Rent a House Boat in Cow Key, one of the best secret getaways in Florida. The Hawaiian island is home to many known gorgeous and fascinating attractions that draw travelers from all over the world, but it's worth digging deeper. We go every year to see my in laws in Florida and we are always looking for new corners of the state to explore. It is not something that the traditional tourist might go to, but it offers a peaceful environment that allows visitors to take a rest from the hustle and bustle of the tourist locations. With this unique blog, my goal is to inspire you to find a life balance betweenActive Travel & a HealthyLifestyle! Copyright 2023 Paula Pins The Planet - All Rights Reserved, It is great to watch the sunrise and sunset and take pictures, How to explore Ten Thousand Islands in Florida, How to explore Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida, How to explore Caladesi Island State Park in Florida, Off-The-Beaten-Path Florida for Beach Lovers, 1. Hey Paula, this is an excellent round up. Keep in mind this is a very busy time and it may be worth going another day if you do not plan to buy plants. Ten Thousand Islands in Florida is for anyone looking for an authentic adventure while enjoying some solitude, and being immersed in nature, and for anyone who seeks off-the-beaten-path destinations. Chincoteague, VA. Photo courtesy of Visit Florida Explore Florida Caverns State Park . The southern terminus is at the Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee. 22. Winter Park is one of the highlights for adults looking to visit Orlando and find many great things to do in this area. A 65-foot observation tower approximately halfway through the loop allows you to observe the scenic views and meet Grumpy the gigantic alligator from afar, as he does live up to his name. . A Small Town In Florida, Grayton Beach Is One Of The Coolest Places In The U.S. 14 Secret Spots In Florida Where Nature Will Completely Relax You, Try These 10 Florida Restaurants For A Magical Outdoor Dining Experience. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. If you love the ocean and marine life, this is the experience of a lifetime. Wild Florida: Hidden Gem! I traveled via the Yankee Freedom Ferry which is roughly a 2 1/2 hour trip each way, pun intended. There is a picnic area, playground, restrooms, a Caladesi Cafe, and showers available on the island. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Read Next: 30 Amazing Dream Destinations for Adventure Lover. Ebyabe CC by SA 3.0. event : evt, Visit what might be the only cave painting in Florida, and enjoy the waterfalls at the Falling Waters Sink, where the water cascades down into a 100ft sinkhole. Two places to see sinkholes are Devils Millhopper Geological State Park and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. It is recommended to ask questions about the variety of animals at the ranch. It was named after the editor of the Miami News, Bill Baggs, who worked at the paper from 1957-1969. It is a wild experience to watch them jump so high using the strength of their tails. There are also picnic pavilions and volleyball courts, and its all a perfect environment for a fun family afternoon. Florida Vacationers is the #1 place to find everything exciting to do in the Sunshine State from the incredible beaches to the beautiful springs, campgrounds and road trips - we are constantly on the lookout for hidden gems and secret spots! Folly Beach is one of the best hidden gem vacation spots on the East Coast. Inside, you'll find an authentic retro atmosphere with music from the 1930s and . Have a refreshing swim at Juniper Springs or Alexander Springs, both popular in the summer with locals and in the winter with manatees! Stop by to see some breathtaking nature and appreciate the history of the area. In addition to being home to some of the best beaches in Florida's Panhandle, Fort Walton also boasts an array of world-class attractions and family complexes. Fort Jefferson is also a part of the national park, a massive coastal stone fortress that was never completed. The park is open from 8:00 A.M. Cormorants flutter over you in the mangroves, along with many other extensive types of birds. Spend an afternoon at their Central Park or Rollins College, and be sure to admire the beauty of Mead Garden. Take the kids to see the marine life at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park or explore hands-on exhibits at the Emerald Coast Science Center. This off-the-beaten-path in Florida is a cluster of 7 islands about 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West. In 1947, it was converted into a sort of natural aquarium, and a waterpark was added nearby to make this place a water adventure destination. Edward Leedskalnin, according to legend, arrived in the U.S. after being left at the altar. Have a relaxing picnic here surrounded by nature, or go jogging, hiking or biking along the gardens to cover more ground. 2. In the dark of the night, you can see fish swimming, the torpedo-like aura of a dolphin swimming by all spark the blue that many compare to the Avatar movie, as the gentle plankton leaves a trickling glow when holding it in your hands. This is a real off-the-beaten path in Florida, even for us, locals. Harry P. Leu Gardens is a stunning Botanical Garden found in the heart of Central Florida. If youre planning a trip to Florida, the best time to visit Florida is between October and May. DeLand. The statue of Juan Ponce de Leon is located in downtown St. Augustine that is home to many historical monuments and memorials. Miami Hidden Gems and Secret Places to Visit in South Florida. Choosing an amazing destination like the glamour and partying in Miami, or the family fun at Disney World, Orlando is always a great way to go. It's a Small size geocache, with difficulty of 1.5, terrain of 1.5. On my trip, approximately 1/3 of the passengers bought Dramamine on the way to the island. Learn how your comment data is processed. Wekiwa Springs State Park, a large natural spring system, is a short 30-minute drive from Kelly Rock Springs. It is definitely one of the best springs in Florida and a true hidden gem. A beach in Florida where you can actually get some alone time is rare indeed. From kayaking in the natural springs to caves, waterfalls, reefs, and all in between. Obloy Family Ranch, now known as Romelia Farms, is the perfect destination for family vacations and couples adventures. Shark Valley, within the national park, offers the experience of a lifetime. In fact, this area is the most significant winter refuge from Manatees in the entire world. Check out their amusement rides and farmers market as well, or catch a film on one of the largest drive-in movie theatres in the state! Getaways in Florida that have been kept completely natural with a discount if you love the ocean and life! 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