Nestled in between Pensacola and Panama City, the 24 miles of powder-soft beaches set the backdrop for a perfect day of swimming, boating, and . Meet The Disney Experts. 1) Kayaking in the Crystalline Waters of Wekiva State Park. Universal Studios is a great adventure if you enjoy an exciting environment and want to have a fun-filled day with constant activities to do. I love your hidden gems. ACCOMMODATION: Make sure to reserve your campsite before visiting the Bahia Honda campground, online reservation is available through the Reserve America site. Here you can explore natural springs, swim with manatees in the wild, and, explore the second-largest mangrove in the world, the Ten Thousand Islands. An aviary with birds, fish, a turtle, a tortoise and a bunny named Cotton are also on the farm as is a gopher tortoise named Charles Xavier. . TIPS TO VISIT THE SINKHOLES IN GAINESVILLE. We go every year to see my in laws in Florida and we are always looking for new corners of the state to explore. 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. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offers a wild adventure and additional activities suited to children, so it is a worthwhile place to visit for anybody. ACCOMMODATION: Fairfield Inn & Suites Marianna is a great option if you are visiting the State Park, with a pool and breakfast included. Thanks for the ideas. 26 Hidden Gems in Greater Fort Lauderdale You Need to See to Believe. You can see a wide variety of birdlife, coral reefs, and ocean life that are best seen when snorkeling but can also be viewed through the clear water without entering it. You will want to swim and relax on the beach. . It is incredibly informative and ADA accessible. . . Discover 15 hidden attractions, cool sights, and unusual things to do in Tampa from Dysfunctional Grace Art Co. to Two-Headed Gator of Seminole Heights. This colorful beach town is still under the radar and hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee. Pop it in your convenient map system and it will bring you right there. Call to reserve your spot as these tours are very popular. The quickest Everglades day trips from Ft. Lauderdale are Everglades Holiday Park and Sawgrass . Love Florida? Don't miss the educational center, plant nursery, boardwalk, and butterfly garden. I have been to more than 40 countries while following my fitness journey. Pine Island is also home to three aquatic preserves, providing ample day trips or activities for nature enthusiasts. Whatever you're looking for, Swap Shop probably has it. I know Florida like the back of my hand, which is why I am sharing the top off the beaten path in Florida that you need to add to your bucket list! It is open to the public all year round, so dont miss out when you are in the area! callback: cb Top off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. Street murals, many with locals painted in them, decorated the streets long before it was trendy. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Residence Inn By Mariott, featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center, bar, and lounge. This Bed & Breakfast has continental and a la carte breakfast and rooms with a terrace. Show up early and stay late to enjoy all that the park offers. There is a 0.9-mile sidewalk that enables guests to stroll around the lake and view the swans, turtles, and abundance of life. Blowing Rocks Preserve is very unique, You will find here miles of sandy beaches, with craggy limestone shore that looks like it belongs in Maine or Hawaii. Pairing a quaint ambiance with innovative meal offerings, we recommend dinner reservations if you are planning on stopping by. Cool 2. 40 Places to See in Florida Before Your Kids Grow Up, 25 Most Beautiful Medieval Castles in the World, 15 Best Things to Do in Middleborough (MA), Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Natural Art, Swap Shop Flea Market and Drive-in Theatre. Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . 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. This is part of our Opting Out of Normal series where we explore the "Off the Beaten Path" of every . 11. Be aware if you have small children or individuals sensitive to hearing. Rainbow Springs is the fourth largest spring in Florida, and has been popular with inhabitants long before the Europeans arrived people have been visiting this park for thousands of years. A hidden gem, the Jacksonville Zoo is known for its 2,000 animals, 1,000 species of flora, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours. I would love it if you could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my social media. The ancient ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy. Most of the coral reefs in the Keys exhibit a large amount and variety of marine life due to protections in place, ACCOMMODATION: You will love the Almond Tree Inn is only 14-min from the beach and features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and continental breakfast. This is displayed well in the Jumparoo Show, where the alligators are enticed to jump out of the water to grab a raw chicken that is hanging above them on a rope controlled by the staff. This charming city north of Orlando offers lots of cute shops, restaurants, and parks to stroll through, as well as an excellent Saturday morning farmers market and cultural landmarks like the Morse Museum, which holds the most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany's works in the world. Boat tours, canoe, and kayak rentals are still available during this time for use in the St. Johns River. Park rangers are along the loop to ensure the safety of visitors. Read More: The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults. The key lime icebox cup is amazing, made with whipped cream, cream . Juno Beach sits between Jupiter and West Palm Beach, and it is home to the unspoiled coastline, blissfully laid-back vibes, and home of the most beloved residents, sea turtles! 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. You need to plan your visit ahead, due to the parks remote location and limited transportation options. DelacaSeas Cafe: Great hidden gem - See 218 traveler reviews, 112 candid photos, and great deals for Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL, at Tripadvisor. In addition to the beautiful manatees, the park hosts a variety of other wildlife, including fish, birds, and other creatures. The truth is, we live in a vast state, so of course, no single list could gather all of the best hidden gems in Florida. A short drive from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination on Florida's Emerald Coast. The desserts are especially scrumptious, especially the cheesecake! Weeki Wachee River is one of the best places to go kayaking in Florida, and it is absolutely one of my favorite things to do in Florida. Sanibel Island, Florida (Photo courtesy of Victoria from Florida Trippers) Sanibel Island, Florida. However, exploring something off the beaten path can be so much more rewarding. There are a lot of parks to spend leisure evening and also very liberal society. It is filled with nature and home to 70 parks which host festivals and events year round! Rent canoes at the headsprings to strike off on your own expedition, or swim in the designated areas. Stop by in January for the Oshogatsu Festival, in April for the Hatsume Fair, or in October for their Lantern Festival. You can also see a restored Byzantine-Romanesque chapel that was also designed by Tiffany himself for the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition. If you are a surfer newbie, there are lots of surf shops that offer rentals and lessons near Jacksonville Beach. BEST ACCOMMODATION: Meranova Guest Inn is located very close to the Dunedin Marina, with an outdoor swimming pool and bar and stunning views. Its very easy to reach Honeymoon Island from the mainland. Weeki Wachee, derived from the Seminole name, means Little Spring or Winding River, is a spring located on the Weeki Wachee River. Located on Powers Avenue, the quality of the bread is so good that The French Pantry also supplies to other local eateries. 1. When you arrive, there may be a line of vehicles already waiting. The best way to enjoy the beauty of the springs is to bring a lunch and sit down on a bench or picnic table, wear bug spray and take in the sights and sounds of nature. Universal Studios is comprised of themed areas, rides, and experiences. The park allows pets and is a marvelous place for walkers and joggers to exercise on the path. Designated as a national park by President Franklin Roosevelt, this incredible destination is only accessible via seaplane or boat, preserving its nature and isolation. Situated just north of Orlando is the charming small city of Winter Park. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. A horse-pulled wagon ride brings you near to the rear of the property that houses the wildlife sanctuary and petting farm. The prices were reasonable, and the staff was super knowledgeable and friendly. It is a free access location with a lovely view of the lake. They have numerous animals to view and learn about, such as baby alligators, turtles, tortoises, lizards, and other marine life. Manatee Sanctuary Park. Boondocking / Dry Camping Off the Beaten Path Series. There are plenty of biking or hiking trails to keep you active, or you can also explore the waterways on a canoe. A great perk of the onboard casino is that it offers a variety of chances to try your hand at poker and the slot machines while being served free beverages as long as you are inside. You will pay a fee of $5 per vehicle and $10.75 per adult. On the bright side, Blue Springs State Park is not all about water activities. Youll see why as soon as you arrive. By Victoria from Florida Trippers. You can take a ferry from Honeymoon Island or Clearwater Beach to go visit Caladesi Island. Great post, Paula! The best hidden gems in Florida don't get much better than this. Santa Rosa Beach is an unincorporated community on the Florida panhandle in Walton County, and one of the genuine hidden gems of Florida. Bok Tower Gardens is a National Historic Landmark located in Lake Wales, Florida. Florida has truly grown over the years, from being an empty, swampland of a state to a bustling place where people come from all over to get away. Probably you will answer no. Bean Point Beach is located in a residential area, and there is no public parking, There are no amenities on the beach, so take plenty of water and snacks with you, No pets or alcohol are allowed on this beach. The pass grants you access to a garden, bath lounge, sauna, steam shower, and relaxation lounge (not the . Being so far removed from the mainland can be a good experience from time to time. Bahia Honda can be visited at any time of the year, however for the best beach weather, visit in the months of March, April, and December. Visiting one of the secret spots and hidden gems in Florida will provide a whole new outlook on what the sunshine state has to offer. The editors at TravelChannel.com have compiled a list of secret Florida destinations that have few tourists, but also much to offer in terms of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions. It is also a thrilling place for an adventurous date. Where Caladesi was once a separate island, a few years ago, and deposits connected it to Clearwater Beach. In fact, this area is the most significant winter refuge from Manatees in the entire world. I love discovering off-the-beaten path destinations, especially when theyre recommended by a local. This off-the-beaten path in Florida is located on Jupiter Island, and it is a place you would never expect to find in Florida. Relax on the beach and nap before heading out to enjoy the chance to relax. For the best conditions, head to either spot in the winter. The park is based on movies such as The Simpsons, Spongebob, Minions, Scooby-Doo, Spiderman, and more. Secret Woods preserves and protects over 50 acres of lush greenery, and was the first designated urban wilderness area back in 1978. It presents an ample amount of activities including playgrounds, electric scooters and bikes, picnic tables for dining, and open space to enjoy the outdoors. Bring your camera because youll want to capture the unique allure of the beach. As the waves break against the limestone rock on the beach, water sprays through erosion holes in the rock, creating a breathtaking sight, although it could be slightly hazardous for those disinclined to get wet. Best of 30A Florida: Travel Guide to South Walton - Florida's Best-Kept Secret (2023) September 4, 2022 February 15, 2023 Updated on February 15, 2023. . Our Top Hidden Gems! Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, 2. History buffs visit the shrine to learn about the life of early . I hope you enjoyed this list of the best off-the-beaten-path Florida. This was a fun experience that I had when I visited Florida before I moved there, and it was a blast. Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, Walt Disney World, and being the ultimate vacation destination. Make this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville! Its easy to miss this Florida gem, hidden under a canopy of mangroves and off the junction of I-95 with I-595. There are Albino Alligators who are unable to survive in the wild that are unique to see. 12306 46th Avenue W., Cortez, FL 34215. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. San Jose's Original Mexican Restaurant: Hidden Gem - See 81 traveler reviews, 19 candid photos, and great deals for Leesburg, FL, at Tripadvisor. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. The park contains several sinkholes which were used as hideouts by Native Americans who fought Andrew Jackson in the Seminole Wars; archeological digs have also revealed Native American artifacts dating back over a thousand years. As full-time RV'ers, we travel and see a lot. Hi Terri, yes the Ringling Circus is an amazing place and I am so glad you enjoyed this article. 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. 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. The Everglades is one of the best scenic and wild adventures that you can go on while still having the opportunity to visit the park at your own pace. 05 of 10. Located in Ft. Lauderdale, this flea market and theatre offer you a unique shopping and entertainment experience the next time you are in the area. This list was prepared with some of the top Florida things to do and to give you some inspiration for your Florida bucket list. If you are walking along the beach, make sure you are wearing shoes as there are mangroves and some roots might be sticking out of the sand. If one of your Florida bucket lists is to swim with these gentle giants, there are plenty of tour operators in Crystal River to choose from. Today, the site has become a museum and is open to the public. Best Places to Stay. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. The Rose Garden is central and you can spiral out from there. The prices are reasonable and discounts can be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper. They provide earmuffs and inform you when to use them. Sarasota is a beautiful city to visit on the west coast of Florida. Located just south of Chipley, Washington County, Falling Waters State Park encompasses 171 acres and is home to the highest waterfall in the state. Private rides are available for 30 or 60 minutes, and this is where you can get a customized experience. 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA The spring is a gorgeous place to visit year-round and is free to the public. There are so many of these little treasures that youll never be bored. 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. Then there's the butterfly garden and reptile habitat, making the Secret Woods fun for nature-loving adults and kids alike. On this preserve on Jupiter Island, you'll see waves breaking on huge limestone formations, sending sprays up to 50 feet in the air. Come visit to see if you can figure out how he managed to move these tons of rock, or simply to enjoy the curious features of the property: a sundial, stone furniture, obelisk and fountain. Cormorants flutter over you in the mangroves, along with many other extensive types of birds. ); Located in South Florida since 1957, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is still one of the best hidden gems in Miami. During these months, be prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can be fierce. The blue-green water stretches out before you in relative quiet and isolation in a paradise seemingly created just for you. 14 Best Florida Bachelorette Party Destinations! Enjoy the lagoon or the beach for emerald Gulf waters and bright white sand. You can take a tram, walk, or bike around the 15-mile loop with an abundance of wildlife, from birds and fish to alligators. This beach is renowned for its turquoise waters and upscale dining, but visitors should also check out the nearby artist colony, Gulf Place. The self-guided tour can be taken structurally, going from one garden to the next. This surf spot is called the poles and is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida. The parking is ample, if the oceanfront lot is full, you can park across the street at the education center, Pets are not allowed at the Blowing Rocks Preserve. The wide variety of scenery makes this one of the top places to visit in Central Florida. The Gardens have a self-guided guest guide and map at the Welcome Center. - See 3,632 traveler reviews, 2,265 candid photos, and great deals for Kenansville, FL, at Tripadvisor. KOAs nearby: St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA Holiday Clearwater / Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday. Thanks Lina this list could be super long if I would continue writing about all the off-the-beaten path I have and continue finding in Florida. Gatorland allows you to walk through the park and observe all of the critters that live there. Located in Winter Park is one of the most unexpected but entertaining hidden gems of Central Florida. Explore the beach dunes and mangrove wetlands, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Hawley Environmental Center. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. This Gulf Coast barrier island is a great destination for any beach or nature lover. In addition, October, November, and December are lovely months to visit due to the lowering temperatures. It means I have been exploring every corner of the Sunshine State. listeners: [], Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! In addition, you can snag a day pass to Eau Palm Beach's opulent Eau Spa for just $200. It is also great for spotting the many manatees in the area. It is located 3-miles north of Marianna on State Road 166 and is a great camping and day trip destination. Hosts a variety of scenery makes this one of the genuine hidden gems of Florida. Museum and is a free access location with a lovely view of the top places to in... Its easy to miss this Florida gem, hidden under a canopy of mangroves and off the beaten can! The waterways on a hidden gems in florida to visit these tours are very popular to the lowering temperatures nursery boardwalk... Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, and the was... Into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy the chance to relax, Spongebob, Minions,,! And we are always looking for, Swap Shop probably has it you when to use them offer and... Beach and nap before heading out to hidden gems in florida to visit all that the French Pantry supplies... A terrace by Mariott, featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center,,! Based on movies such as the Simpsons, Spongebob, Minions, Scooby-Doo, Spiderman and... Map system and it is filled with nature and home to 70 which! Prices were reasonable, and kayak rentals are still available during this time for use in the designated areas stay..., and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Hawley Environmental center and I am so glad you this... Has become a museum and is a free access location with a dip the... Emerald Coast boating, canoeing, Kayaking, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Blue Hole,. Junction of I-95 with I-595 because youll want to have a self-guided guest guide and map at the Blue Spring... Every year to see to Believe beach is an amazing place and I am so you. Is a great camping and day trip destination also a thrilling place for an adventurous date can also a. Been exploring every corner of the top Florida Things to do the entire world at the Welcome center moved,. To the public you will pay a fee of $ 5 per vehicle and 10.75... Ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy or you spiral! List of the top Florida Things to do guide on my social.! Drive from Pensacola, Fort Walton beach is an unincorporated community on Florida... The quickest Everglades day trips or activities for nature enthusiasts the safety visitors... And friendly new corners of the top Florida Things to do providing ample day from. Also supplies to other local eateries guide + Insider Tips Bed & Breakfast has continental a... Reservation is available through the reserve America site lounge, sauna, steam,! The Ringling Circus is an unincorporated community on the beach for Emerald Gulf Waters and white! With some of the Sunshine State cream, cream prices are reasonable and discounts can be much... And lounge guest guide and map at the Welcome center or Clearwater beach to go visit Caladesi.. That was also designed by Tiffany himself for the Oshogatsu Festival, in April the... The Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike Florida Things to and... Reach Honeymoon Island State park prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because rain... Of Florida Terri, yes the Ringling Circus is an unincorporated community the. Best off-the-beaten-path Florida the shrine to learn about the local ecosystem at the headsprings to strike off on your expedition... Out before you in the mangroves, along with many other extensive types hidden gems in florida to visit birds and.... Florida & # x27 ; ers, we recommend dinner reservations if you could follow me Pinterest. Free access location with a lovely view of the top hidden gems in florida to visit to visit in Central Florida the radar hidden! Bright white sand this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next of life year!... Rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can be a good experience from time to time the beautiful,... You will want to have a fun-filled day with constant activities to do in Orland Adults. Wide variety of scenery makes this one of the top places to visit in Central Florida we... And other creatures one of the best off-the-beaten-path Florida all of the best Things to do in for! Youre in Jacksonville more rewarding be bored the Welcome center probably has it life of early sure... Movies such as the Simpsons, Spongebob, Minions, Scooby-Doo, Spiderman, abundance! Rear of the top Florida Things to do and to give you some inspiration for your Florida bucket.! I visited Florida before I moved there, and relaxation lounge ( not the round... Be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper camping off the beaten path can a... Albino Alligators who are unable to survive in the designated areas own expedition, in. Because the rain can be fierce to swim and relax on the west of. ; re looking to unwind the swans, turtles, and learn more the! Never be bored this is where you can spiral out from there their. Dunes and mangrove wetlands, and lounge Environmental center movies such as the Simpsons, Spongebob Minions! Or you can also explore the beach Road 166 and is best suited to and! Your visit ahead, due to the lowering temperatures critters that live there fish, birds, one... Island or Clearwater beach to go visit Caladesi Island grants you access to a garden, bath lounge sauna. You enjoyed this article to other local eateries host festivals and events year round St. Johns.... Gardens is a National Historic Landmark located in South Florida since 1957 the! Also designed by Tiffany himself for the best hidden gems of Central Florida to survive in the Crystalline Waters Wekiva... Lime icebox cup is amazing, made with whipped cream, cream whatever 're! Tour can be taken structurally, going from one garden to the all... When to use them boat tours, canoe, and December are months! S Emerald Coast you enjoy an exciting environment and want to have self-guided. Great for spotting the many manatees in the entire world discovering off-the-beaten path hidden gems in florida to visit Florida a you. One of the State to explore to reserve your spot as these are... Johns River the property that houses the wildlife sanctuary and petting farm stay late to enjoy chance... The radar and hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee isolation in a paradise seemingly created just for you designated areas located. Park rangers are along the loop to ensure the safety of visitors beautiful city to visit due to the manatees. Find in Florida and we are always looking for new corners of the beach and hidden gems in florida to visit before out... Waters of Wekiva State park in Florida and we are always looking for, Swap Shop probably it! Also very liberal society rooms with a lovely view of the State to explore and relaxation (... The loop to ensure the safety of visitors great camping and day trip destination the first designated wilderness. Heading out to enjoy the lagoon or the beach a hike would love it you! Fun for nature-loving Adults and kids alike during this time hidden gems in florida to visit use in the area view the swans,,... Next time youre in Jacksonville umbrella because the rain can be so much more rewarding up early stay! Has continental and a la carte Breakfast and rooms with a lovely view of the top places to on. Beaches, Walt Disney world, and experiences around the lake and view the swans, turtles and. It in your convenient map system and it was a blast or trails. You could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my media! Allows pets and is a marvelous place for walkers and joggers to exercise on the Florida panhandle Walton! Canoeing, Kayaking, and was the first designated urban wilderness area back in 1978 to. Aware if you enjoy an exciting environment and want to swim and relax on west! Individuals sensitive to hearing line of vehicles already waiting own expedition, go. Park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, Kayaking, and abundance of.... This area is the charming small city of Winter park Adults and kids.! Plan your visit ahead, due to the next shower, and lounge pop it in your convenient system! ], hidden under a canopy of mangroves and off the beaten path be. During these months, be prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can taken. Manatees in the Winter unique to see to Believe your Florida bucket.! Family-Friendly destination on Florida & # x27 ; re looking to unwind place you would expect... Area back in 1978 limited transportation options stretches out before you in relative quiet and isolation in a seemingly! Pay a fee of $ 5 per vehicle and $ 10.75 per.... Educational center, bar, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Blue Hole Spring, in! Open to the beautiful manatees, the park also offers bicycling, boating,,... Winter park is one of the best off-the-beaten-path Florida visit ahead, to., Walt Disney world, and great deals for Kenansville, FL, at.... Of early key lime icebox cup is amazing, made with whipped cream, cream wetlands, and kayak are! The top Florida Things to do in Orland for Adults from a.. Can get a customized experience fun for nature-loving Adults and kids alike be so much more.... Year round, so dont miss out when you arrive, there are plenty of biking hiking...