OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. In the heart of the Everglades and mangrove islands lies the remote, wild Tigertail Beach. . Every year in Florida, as soon as the animals sense the coming winter, they seek out warm locations. Lake Eola Park is a spectacular location to enjoy quality time with loved ones or roam solo. Crystal River State Park is a large preserve that runs along 20 miles of the Gulf Coast and is so large that the area is divided into temperate and sub-tropical climate zones. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. San Jose's Original Mexican Restaurant: Hidden Gem - See 81 traveler reviews, 19 candid photos, and great deals for Leesburg, FL, at Tripadvisor. It helps to fundraise for the animals and is a unique experience, to say the least. Santa Rosa Beach. On this preserve on Jupiter Island, you'll see waves breaking on huge limestone formations, sending sprays up to 50 feet in the air. You need to walk across the muddy lagoon and through some water to reach the beach, but it is so worth it. Blowing Rocks Preserve is located in Hobe Sound on narrow Jupiter Island, a barrier island between the Indian River Lagoon and the ocean. Wear sunblock and drink plenty of water if you do visit during the summer months. Dry Tortugas National Park is located on the Gulf of Mexico, west of Key West, and is comprised of 7 of the most isolated islands in the Florida Keys. Top off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. Another tree makes the list of hidden gems in St. Augustine. Google Maps | Phone: (407) 323-4450 | Zoo Website | Hours: 9 am - 4 pm daily | Reserve Zoo Tickets and Skip the Line. By Victoria from Florida Trippers. Designated as a national park by President Franklin Roosevelt, this incredible destination is only accessible via seaplane or boat, preserving its nature and isolation. Now children and adults in the area alike come out here on hot summer days. Call to reserve your spot as these tours are very popular. Don't miss these hidden gems in Sarasota Florida to . Matlacha Pass waterways offer excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities, or you can head off to explore the mangroves or palms that stretch for acres. Head out to the lagoon and cross it to find 3 miles of white sand beach and shells, with dolphins frolicking in the water. The top deck is a fabulous place to soak in the sunshine and enjoy a cold beverage. The Carnival Cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida is a great side-trip when visiting Florida. Caladesi Island State Park is located on the island by the same name in the Gulf of Mexico. Inside, you'll find an authentic retro atmosphere with music from the 1930s and . Hi Terri, yes the Ringling Circus is an amazing place and I am so glad you enjoyed this article. It is also much less buggy earlier in the day, so instead of having to use as much bug spray, you may want sunblock and a lot of water. Old Florida meets the 21st century in Seminole County, a hidden gem in Florida. One of the best indoor activities in Miami for sure. 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. Photo Credit: Author d4rr3ll from UK. 2. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are located west of Delray Beach in Palm Beach County. 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. Some of the caves are tall enough to stand in, with natural benches formed by the erosive power of the tides. As expected, they have some of the best pastries and cakes you will ever try, but they're only open for lunch. 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. Love Florida? Inside this 66-acre Sarasota enthralling museum, you will find interesting artwork from around the globe and pieces from different periods from top to bottom. Miami is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Florida with a number of well-known attractions, pristine beaches, and unique art and culture scenes like Art Deco buildings and Wynwood graffiti; Furthermore, the Everglades and the Florida Keys are on the outskirt of the city center that is only a few-hour drive away. Santa Rosa Beach. Snag a table (if you can) and settle in for a delicious dining experience seating is in high demand!. If you prefer to stay on land, hike the Florida Scenic Trail and spend the night there are several campsites in Ocala National Forest. Located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Molasses Reef is a popular coral reef destination for scuba divers. Rent a kayak and explore the coastline on your own, or take a boat tour out to the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary enclosed in the park. 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. Falling Waters near Chipley, FL, is home to the tallest waterfall (and one of very few, period) in the state of Florida. This colorful beach town is still under the radar and hidden between Pensacola and Tallahassee. I highly recommend listening to the suggestions from the staff as it was a rough ride in January when I went. This majestic 200-acre garden features a 205-foot singing tower facing a reflecting pool, a bird sanctuary, and acres of oaks, pines, ferns, camellias, jasmine, spider lily, and wetland plants. Florida Caverns State Park is located three miles north of Marianna on State Road 166, and is a great camping and day trip destination. The home features 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces. No matter the size, the houseboats are an incredibly unique experience, and they enable you to listen to the ocean waves and marine life as you rest. So, without further ado, pack your sunscreen and camera and get ready to explore the off-the-beaten path in Florida, and discover some new treasures at the Sunset State! Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. Chris Cook-Leitz has worked in the travel industry since 2008 and opened her own travel advisor company in 2015. So gas up the car and start exploring everything our beautiful state really has to offer. They will ask the crowd for volunteers and have a few guests close their eyes while they place a creepy creature beside them or in their hands. Get to know the locals while you enjoy a beer or two or some clam chowder, and stay at a house on stilts off the beautiful oceans to soak in the fresh ocean air. Visitors come to witness the great architectural structure dedicated to the first colony of Greeks to land in America in 1768. hey Katy, OMG! Florida has long been a favorite destination for many travelers, but some cities get a little too much love. Additionally, there is a Plant Sale on March 12th and 13th, and entry is free for the weekend. { 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. I love that it isnt as touristy as other spots and has many interesting activities nearby for those days when its not beach weather. Stunning flower beds can are along the path and there are plenty of local restaurants. Crystal River not only has some of the clearest water in Florida, it is also the only place you can legally swim up close with endangered manatees. The area is home to many diverse types of coral, like brain or star coral. Have a refreshing swim at Juniper Springs or Alexander Springs, both popular in the summer with locals and in the winter with manatees! Come out for a day trip of watersports and hiking, or bring your camping gear to spend a few days in this paradise. There are endless exciting encounters and opportunities to keep the entire family excited. Youll see why as soon as you arrive. Located in Winter Park is one of the most unexpected but entertaining hidden gems of Central Florida. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. Weve made a comprehensive list of some of the best hidden gems in Florida, including state parks where you can explore caverns or swim with manatees, quiet beaches where you can actually relax, verdant gardens, and top-notch restaurants. Towards the southern end of the preserve, the rocks are worn into shapes not much higher than the sand and erosion has caused bowl-like holes and swirling lumps. In addition to the beautiful manatees, the park hosts a variety of other wildlife, including fish, birds, and other creatures. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens . The waters are stunningly clear and offer a fantastic first-time opportunity for snorkeling and a vast area for experienced snorkelers. There are more things to discover like a bug camp and a food forest. The unique experience allows you to enjoy all of the perks of a medium-sized cruise ship. 2: Fort Bragg, California. Founded by Jeannette McKean in 1942, she built this now impressive collection over a period of 50 years prepare to be dazzled as you stroll through the museum galleries. The ideal place to be is on the top deck of the ship, where they have one of several bars and offer rum buckets and a full bar. Thank you! Located in Crystal River, The Three Sisters Springs is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Florida and is an ideal place for swimming, canoeing or kayaking. However, this cruise gives you the freedom to gamble in international waters. ACCOMMODATION: Avalon Hotel is a 1-minute walk from the famous Miami Beach, and features an on-site bar and restaurant as well as free Wi-fi. 30 Best Resorts in Florida for Couples for a Romantic Getaway, 20 Best Places to Retire in Florida For Your Golden Years. From the shops, restaurants, galleries and a wide array of activities, there is no shortage of things to do. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. Couples love it because of the lack of amenities, it makes a tranquil beach. You need to leave something for future visitors to appreciate! You are about to find out the most incredible off-the-beaten-path in Florida that will just blow your mind! It is so fascinating to watch the magnificent animals having so much fun. It depicts the beauty of art and describes the history associated with the city. Virtually all have natural chimneys exposing the sky above. The forests boast versatile and diverse terrain, from palm-filled oases to sand pine flatlands and prairie wetlands. While still many people come to explore the more touristy spots, its the hidden gems throughout Florida that have become the must-visit destinations. Another intermediate spot is on each side of Jackson Pier. Victoria is a native Floridian and writer for OIYS. Florida is a Dream Destination, because of its diversity. It features stunning white sandy beaches and is a great place to go to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. It's located in Florida, United States.Melbourne's Hidden Gem it back in action!! The Cummer Museum of Art is a beautiful art museum in Jacksonville, Florida showcasing over 5,000 pieces of artwork! 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. Courtesy of Florida Tourism 3. Thank you! ACCOMMODATION: Fairfield Inn & Suites Marianna is a great option if you are visiting the State Park, with a pool and breakfast included. Cow Key is a quiet destination at night, allowing you to listen to the ocean as you relax in your houseboat. It stretches for 4 miles from the North tip of the Island to Dunedin Pass. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. Pack up your sunscreen and camera, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Florida. Explore the beach dunes and mangrove wetlands, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Hawley Environmental Center. The desserts are especially scrumptious, especially the cheesecake! The hotel offers modern accommodations, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and free Wi-Fi. Meet my friend Rafiki at the giraffe feeding station. This guide is packed with insider tips on how to visit the best off-the-beaten-path in Florida. It is also a thrilling place for an adventurous date. You can easily drive there and park in one of the fields parking lots. Come here for authentic Italian cuisine, pastas and entrees inspired by the owners home country. Perfect for a relaxing day on this wild and natural beach. Make sure to see Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890 and still standing to this day. The best surf spot near Jacksonville is located in Hanna Park. It is filled with nature and home to 70 parks which host festivals and events year round! On Maui, there plenty of off-the-beaten-track and hidden gems that only the locals know. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. It is best to go during warmer months to avoid feeling too chilly when the water fills the boat. 23 miles west of Austin, you can find it off of Highway 71, one of the best hidden gems in the south USA. Off-the-Beaten-Path Orlando Hidden Gems Things to Do. If you like animals, it is a guarantee that there will be some sort of creature there that you will love. But if you happen to know of a spot that we missed above and you think your fellow Floridians would love to hear about it, then shout it out in the comments section below! The spring is a gorgeous place to visit year-round and is free to the public. 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. The Goblin Market is an eclectic bistro that is a must-visit for anyone near the charming town of Mount Dora. Visit to see the wildlife or to rent a boat and enjoy the ocean. Youll find everything from one-on-one lessons to group lessons, and surf packages. I try to go as often as I can, and my dogs love there too. Flickr/psyberartist. Go birding along the boardwalks of the mangrove forests, or stop in at the nature center to learn about Southeast Florida habitats! Both parks are easy to get to by car and can be toured within a couple of hours. 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. . Kayak To See the Bioluminescent is an Off Beaten Path in Florida, 15. Books line the walls of the three small dining rooms, and most guests rave about the shady courtyard and garden patio. Founded by Spaniards who came to the New World, they founded fishing ranches out on islands like Cayo Costa, which was settled by Tervio Padilla in the 1870s until the government claimed his land. 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. it is also an amazing spot for pictures, especially during sunset. A half-hour tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy the wild ride and see alligators. DeLand, southwest of Daytona Beach, is a small town with a big city feel and my favorite downtown in Florida. From May through October, Juno Beach is the densest sea turtle nesting ground in the world. 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 . There are a lot of parks to spend leisure evening and also very liberal society. - See 3,632 traveler reviews, 2,265 candid photos, and great deals for Kenansville, FL, at Tripadvisor. There is a picnic area, playground, restrooms, a Caladesi Cafe, and showers available on the island. The pass grants you access to a garden, bath lounge, sauna, steam shower, and relaxation lounge (not the . The southern terminus is at the Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee. 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. You wouldn't believe you were in Florida while strolling through these historic gardens. Plus, there's over 8000 acres of trails and gardens! The villa is located less than 3 miles away from Downtown Miami, and it can be reached by taking the metro to the Vizcaya Station, with a short 10-minute walk. It is located by the waterfront at Johns Pass Village in Madeira Beach. This hidden gem boasts over 22 miles of uncrowded beaches and more than 100,000 sprawling acres of parks and conservation lands. The Gardens are open from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. daily, with no entrance after 4:00 P.M. EST. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind. The prices at the BBQ are fair, and the airboat ride fees range depending on age, time, and season. BEST ACCOMMODATION: I really recommendrenting a beach houseon Anna Maria Island to enjoy the most of this island paradise. The quickest Everglades day trips from Ft. Lauderdale are Everglades Holiday Park and Sawgrass . The Bean Point Beach is located at the furthest north point on Anna Maria Island, and you can enter it at a crossroad on North Bay Blvd. Snorkeling and scuba diving are absolute musts if you visit, as well as fishing or kayaking along the emerald and aqua waters. Powered by Mai Theme, 19 Best Day Trips From Tampa Worth The Effort, Tips For Visiting And Finding Beer Can Island. BEST ACCOMMODATION: There are no accommodations on the island, the best place to stay near Honeymoon Island is Clearwater, the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach is located at the stunning Clearwater Beach and the rooms have an ocean view. 14 Best Florida Bachelorette Party Destinations! She specializes in booking Disney and . If you're heading down AIA to the end of the line maybe doing that most famous of all Florida road trips, the Miami to Key West drive and looking for the best sites to see and things to do in Key . 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. Check out our list of the best hidden gems in Florida and start planning your next getaway! It is great place for adventurers, . I have visited the Ringling Circus Museum and can concur GO VISIT! Located along the California coast in Mendocino County lies the historic town of Fort Bragg. What a great destination for kids, families, couples and friends. TIPS TO VISIT THE FALLING WATER STATE PARK, ACCOMMODATION: There is a Quality Inn close by, which is a good option if you are visiting the park, And with all the diversity, did you expect to also find this hidden gem in Florida? The Swap Shop stretches over 180,000 square feet, so why not make this a whole day shopping and outing extravaganza? The key lime icebox cup is amazing, made with whipped cream, cream . Explore the trails and go to a campfire circle, where the rangers give talks and put on a slide slow. The Lake Monroe Boat Ramp area in Deltona has a small clearing with the boat launch, as well as picnic tables and benches to observe natures beauty. I consider Gatorland a must-see location for anybody who visits Florida. The Alligators & Wildlife Discovery Center is a fantastic place to visit and is one of the top tourist destinations in Florida. Two staff members compete to get their alligator to jump the highest as the crowd cheers them on. Santa Rosa Beach. Check out Pine Island Sound for some of the best fishing in the state or stay back to relax in this small town haven. 9. The ferry provides a morning snack, lunch, and showers so that people can snorkel and rinse off. June 1, 2021 optingoutofnormal@gmail.com. ACCOMMODATION: Holiday Inn is a great option, with a great location and expresses check-in and check-out. 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. Hydrophonic and aquaphonic systems are installed to grow food for the caterpillars. Stop by next time you are in the area to appreciate the diverse wildlife. It is incredibly informative and ADA accessible. 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. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island a real gem in Florida, 3. The community has charmingly fused the old with the new here: visit historic Eden Gardens State Park and then go for dinner at a modern restaurant like The Bay. Private rides are available for 30 or 60 minutes, and this is where you can get a customized experience. The park is located near an energy plant. The Singing Tower was constructed next to a reflection pool and is surrounded by a koi pond moat. Open every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day, in the off season Rainbow Springs is only accessible on the weekends. Glass Beach is a popular attraction in Fort Bragg and one of the best hidden gems in the US | Flickr/lyssah. Houseboats can be found for rent on many popular rental websites. Stretching 59 acres, it was constructed by the Works Progress Administration and boasts cypress buildings, rock gardens and fieldstone terraces. This eclectic bistro located in Mount Dora has been captivating diners for over 20 years, and offers a refined, international menu and unique dining experience. Did you know you can ride a horse at the beach in Florida? Show off to your friends with a picture holding an alligator. It is located in Kissimmee and is a moderate trip from downtown Orlando. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. 4 must try florida adventures, which one was your favorite? devils den daytona beach shores & lighthouse point parkcrystal riverkelly park/rock sprin. The alligators are most commonly seen along the sides of the loop. Shelling is popular on Gasparilla Island during the winter months, and there are plenty of other activities to interest you any time of year. 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. The park allows pets and is a marvelous place for walkers and joggers to exercise on the path. Caladesi Island is one of the best beaches in the country and one of the few in Florida that have been kept completely natural. Watching them dive for fish and swallow their live meals is not for everyone, but it is an experience you do not see every day. A visit to one of the spookiest hidden gems in South Carolina will sure to please everyone in the family. February to May is the best time to visit. Come experience the elegance and grandeur of the Biltmore by taking a tour of America's largest home. Really? 11. These coastal states are located on the Atlantic Ocean, spread from Maine to Florida, all unique in their way, from UNESCO World Heritage sites, beaches to charming small towns, and landmarks. The prime months to visit Florida, generally suggested by many Floridians, are March, April, and May, because the weather is not too high or low. - Opting Out of Normal. 05 of 10. Call to reserve your spot as these tours are very popular. Or, if you find yourself on the other end at Clearwater Beach, simply walk all the way out to Caladesi Island, as it technically connected to the mainland at this point at a narrow juncture. and is a worthy adventure if you are a night-owl. Walk the mile of interpretive trail and watch out for the land crabs that might be crossing the road! 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. Amaze of mangroves,where the waters of the Everglades meet the Gulf Coast, forming a labyrinth of water, and it is the second-largest mangrove forest in the world, only surpassed by Bangladesh. you need to come to Florida and let me know when you are in the area and I will be so happy to show you around. On the bright side, Blue Springs State Park is not all about water activities. Come spend the day in nature, under the Florida sunshine. The State Park is located at 1130 State Park Road Chipley FL 32428, Plan your visit to coincide with the recent heavy rain, so there will be lots of water. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. This river makes you a sense of enchantment, as the mild 5-mile-per-hour current carries your kayak downstream, and each winding curve reveals a vista of lush greenery in the middle of magnificent nature. There are camping cabins onsite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails. It is a great place to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a low-key afternoon in the sun. When you are visiting the area, dont forget to check out other. BEST ACCOMMODATION: Meranova Guest Inn is located very close to the Dunedin Marina, with an outdoor swimming pool and bar and stunning views. 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. Our Top Hidden Gems! The Everglades National Park offers some of the most unique experiences in Florida. 1. This was a fun experience that I had when I visited Florida before I moved there, and it was a blast. The natural side of the Sunshine State is on full display at spots like Wekiwa Springs State Park, where visitors can paddle, snorkel, and swim in the crystal-clear springs that remain at 72 degrees year-round, and the Wekiva River, one of just two "National Wild . Many come from far just to eat at the local restaurants in the Ten Thousand Islands area. This offers a breath-taking opportunity to pass them at a closer distance. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. This location cannot be beat when it comes to a peaceful place to birdwatch, have lunch, and enjoy the Florida sunshine. Florida's Emerald Coast comprises a few of the Sunshine State's best-kept secrets.