document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Head out to the island paradise for a few days and enjoy a getaway! Overall, Gatorland is nothing short of incredible and you can remain safe while exploring the land and visiting the enclosures that are filled with such dangerous beasts. What To Do Santa Rosa Beach is an unincorporated community on the Florida panhandle in Walton County, and one of the genuine hidden gems of Florida. Perhaps I am biased, as I moved to Florida 16 years ago and I call this place home. Walk the mile of interpretive trail and watch out for the land crabs that might be crossing the road! callback: cb Popular are shrimp, oysters, clams, lobster rolls and fish tacos. Swap Shop has over 2,000 vendors for 180,00 square feet of shopping, restaurants, farmers markets with tons of local produce, and one of the world's largest drive-in movie theaters. 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. While still many people come to explore the more touristy spots, its the hidden gems throughout Florida that have become the must-visit destinations. Photo courtesy of Visit Florida Explore Florida Caverns State Park . version 2.0. It goes part way around the fort and allows you to view the fort, island, and gorgeous waters below. Another one of our favorite unusual things To Do In Fort Myers is visit the Manatee Park. Butterfly Dans is a butterfly breeding farm in Kissimmee, Florida. 11. 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. The home features 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces. They offer half-hour booked tours and accept walk-ins. A: In the suburbs of Fort Lauderdale with a population of 3,885, Highland Beach is a great hidden gem for retirees to live in Florida. Bookmark this blog as your go to place for all things Florida related. Sited east of Pensacola, this quiet destination boasts a generous white-sand beach snuggled against the emerald-hued Gulf of Mexico. It is considered by many Floridians to be the alligator capital of the world. Stop by to check out the unique rock formations along the beach and to appreciate the wildlife and diverse landscape on the preserve. For the best conditions, head to either spot in the winter. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. The park is open from 8:00 A.M. Soak in the sun at Bean Point Beach (a real off-the-beaten-path Florida). Cow Key is an offshoot from Key West and is an amazing place to try something new. They also organise events with live music and workshops. Whether you are stopping for the day or making an entire trip out of it, there is plenty to do to keep you entertained in this natural paradise. 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! The prices at the BBQ are fair, and the airboat ride fees range depending on age, time, and season. Love Florida? This Urban Wilderness Area features a great many different trees native to Florida, including cypress, maple, mangrove, and a laurel oak hammock. Ocala National Forest spans over 600 square miles of northern Florida, and is bursting with activities for any time of year. Victoria is a native Floridian and writer for OIYS. It features stunning white sandy beaches and is a great place to go to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. The worst of the rainfall typically hits during the hottest months of the year: June, July, and August. 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. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Whether you're taking an educational tour around the . A beach in Florida where you can actually get some alone time is rare indeed. They are microorganisms that occur widely in marine waterways in the summertime typically when the temperature is at its peak and the water is calm. Located near Clearwater and St Petersburg, Honeymoon Island is one of the best off the beaten path in Florida! It's around 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida, but feels worlds apart with its lush landscape. There are three campgrounds in the State Park that consist of 80 campsites where you pitch your tent or park your RV. 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. 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA Youll walk away with more knowledge of the area and some great pictures of the waterfalls. 12306 46th Avenue W., Cortez, FL 34215. The prices are reasonable and discounts can be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper. Kayak To See the Bioluminescent is an Off Beaten Path in Florida, 15. 5) Visit the Cute Small Town of Windermere. A trail of statues, memorials, and monuments is in the downtown city of St. Augustine. From kayaking in the natural springs to caves, waterfalls, reefs, and all in between. 14 Best Florida Bachelorette Party Destinations! There are more things to discover like a bug camp and a food forest. 2: Fort Bragg, California. Easily one of the best islands in Florida, Sanibel island is without a doubt one of the best hidden gems to visit in the USA in spring.. It's a trip you'll be eager to make since Sanibel Island sits on the Gulf Coast of Fort Myers and is known for its . It means I have been exploring every corner of the Sunshine State. Located in the middle of the pine woods on the Suwannee, in Dixie County, is what many locals call the best swimming hole in Florida: Bobs River Place. If you are around South Beach and consider yourself to be a lover of movies, the Miami Beach Cinematheque is definitely a place to visit. An interesting opportunity there that is good for a thrill is the Kiss A Gator booth. There are many unique animals, some of which are extremely friendly and playful during the guided petting zoo tour. It presents an ample amount of activities including playgrounds, electric scooters and bikes, picnic tables for dining, and open space to enjoy the outdoors. Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . } 4) Shop at a Local Farmer's Market. It is a great experience for animal lovers, kids, and anybody to learn more about endangered animals because it is geared towards educating people and helping rehabilitate animals that are unable to be safely released into the wild. I spent a lot of my time on the boat enjoying the scenery. The park is free and is open from 6:00 A.M. to 11:59 P.M. Swan Boat rentals are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. To ensure you get a chance to rent a swan boat, be sure to arrive earlier in the day. The property is located in Merritt Island, Florida, about one hour from Orlando. During these months, be prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can be fierce. Also a major environmental protectionist, he worked to protect the key and preserve some of its natural state, such as the land of Bill Baggs State Park. Come here for authentic Italian cuisine, pastas and entrees inspired by the owners home country. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. It is a fantastic adventure and you can feel safe knowing your children are on bomb-proof steads which are perfectly well behaved. Looking for hidden gems in Florida? Another alternative to the ferry or kayak is exploring Caladesi Island by walking north on Clearwater Beach. 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. Its open from 8AM to sundown every day, and is beautiful in the early morning when the birds are awake and chirping, filling this gem of a park with their songs. . Stop by if youve always been a mermaid fan and see a show at the submerged theatre, or to take a few rides at the Buccaneer water park. 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! This beach is renowned for its turquoise waters and upscale dining, but visitors should also check out the nearby artist colony, Gulf Place. There is a $6 toll charge to get on the island and the Florida SunPass is not valid. Sanibel Island, Florida (Photo courtesy of Victoria from Florida Trippers) Sanibel Island, Florida. Read More: The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults. The fee for entering the park is $25.00 per vehicle, which is surprisingly affordable considering it includes entrance to the park for up to seven days. Park rangers are along the loop to ensure the safety of visitors. In addition, due to Florida law, gambling is illegal. We are so happy to have you as part of our Florida Vacationers community! If you are not comfortable with camping, you can rent a cabin which is pretty affordable. As full-time RV'ers, we travel and see a lot. A short drive from Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination on Florida's Emerald Coast. The Miami Beach Cinematheque is located at 1130 Washington Avenue and is known for showcasing indie films as well as classic films. This little restaurant has Italian food as good as you wish your mama made. Enjoy the lagoon or the beach for emerald Gulf waters and bright white sand. Camp out to continue appreciating this desolate and gorgeous state park. 05 of 10. } DeLand. 1) Kayaking in the Crystalline Waters of Wekiva State Park. It has everything from a vibrant city life that provides plenty of things to do and yet it is still laid back. This is certainly an off-the-beaten path in Florida you need to add to your bucket list. on: function(evt, cb) { An environmental preserve on Jupiter Island, Blowing Rocks Preserve is home to the largest Anastasia limestone outcropping on the east coast of Florida. 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. Weeki Wachee, derived from the Seminole name, means Little Spring or Winding River, is a spring located on the Weeki Wachee River. 2. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens . There are so many of these little treasures that youll never be bored. It is a wonderful spot for visitors because it is not a high-traffic tourist area. 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. It is a fantastic spot to experience the best of nature and outdoor activities, with the famous bridge and offshore island. A 4 1/2 mile walk on Pine Island Trail allows for the sightings of these delightful animals. Based on the temperature you prefer, you can select the ideal time of year to visit. It is ideal to arrive as early as possible. So gas up the car and start exploring everything our beautiful state really has to offer. Have a refreshing swim at Juniper Springs or Alexander Springs, both popular in the summer with locals and in the winter with manatees! Explore the trails and go to a campfire circle, where the rangers give talks and put on a slide slow. It has on-street parking, so be sure to factor that into your plans. It is also recommended to check dates before going to the Gardens, as they sometimes close early on some dates or during certain events, such as tours and field trips. It is ideal to bring an extra set of clothes and towels if you plan on exploring more or dining at Boggy Bottom BBQ. 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 . The well-known landmark Mickey Pylon can be found in Celebration Florida is another hidden gem Florida has! The most exciting part about the Shark Valley Loop Trail is traveling past the numerous alligators along the loop. Wild Florida: Hidden Gem! he ranch has a wildlife sanctuary, petting farm, horseback trail riding, and it serves as a venue for events. When you arrive, there may be a line of vehicles already waiting. Jacksonville is the ideal place to try something new and one of the best things to do in Florida. { 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 off your relaxing visit with a stroll along the Pine Ridge Trail to fully appreciate this magical place, and dont forget your camera. 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. So here are the hidden gems on east coast of the USA. The park offers reservations for festivals, events, and weddings at different locations in the park. Sixteen acres of Japanese gardens are Delray Beach's best hidden gem. Performances are still offered, and real-live mermaids, professional swimmers using fins, continue to delight guests. 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. Perfect for a relaxing day on this wild and natural beach. There are also locations in Tampa and Lake Worth. Thanks for the ideas. The hotel offers modern accommodations, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and free Wi-Fi. Stop by next time you are in the area to appreciate the diverse wildlife. Make sure to see Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890 and still standing to this day. Being so far removed from the mainland can be a good experience from time to time. Great post, Paula! This is a real off-the-beaten path in Florida, even for us, locals. I will most likely have to write a second revision of this post soon. Located along the California coast in Mendocino County lies the historic town of Fort Bragg. The mornings are beautiful, and from the houseboat, I could eat my breakfast while watching the pelicans eat theirs. The most remote South Florida hidden gem is the Florida Trail, one of only 11 National Scenic Trails. Address: 4923 20th Ave S, Gulfport, FL 33707, United States. Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, Walt Disney World, and being the ultimate vacation destination. But dont worry if you dont have a horse, or if you cannot bring your horse to your vacation on the island you can have this experience by going on atour with the Beach horse. The waters are stunningly clear and offer a fantastic first-time opportunity for snorkeling and a vast area for experienced snorkelers. Chincoteague is located on Virginia's Eastern Shore and is on a shared stretch of land called Assateague Island National Seashore. Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures offers a wild adventure and additional activities suited to children, so it is a worthwhile place to visit for anybody. Bring your sunblock and prepare for a whole day of fun in the sun! Either take a passenger ferry or rent your own private boat from the dock at Honeymoon Island to reach this magical place. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning place to visit for people of all ages. Two places to see sinkholes are Devils Millhopper Geological State Park and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Rainbow River State Park. Gasparilla Island State Park is separated from the Florida Mainland by Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. Thank you! Florida Caverns State Park is the place to go see Florida's natural and historic . Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, 2. The best way to explore the Molasses Reef is to join a, Located only Approximately 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando. Bring your camera because youll want to capture the unique allure of the beach. This off-the-beaten-path in Florida is a cluster of 7 islands about 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West. Whatever you're looking for, Swap Shop probably has it. 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. If you like animals, it is a guarantee that there will be some sort of creature there that you will love. From hidden coves and dramatic natural features to elaborate gardens and quirky general stores, here is a compilation ACCOMMODATION: Make sure to reserve your campsite before visiting the Bahia Honda campground, online reservation is available through the Reserve America site. DeLand touts one of the first Mainstreet U.S.A. award-winning towns. Since the opening of the canoe outfitter at the headsprings, Weeki Wachee is very popular and can be crowded especially on weekends. 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. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Hampton Inn in Juno Beach, within walking distance of the beach and near many recreational activities. Are you ready!? A center for Japanese arts and culture, the grounds are named after George Morikami, a Japanese man who donated his farm to the county to be converted into a park. Go Horse ride at the beach at Palma Sola Bay, Off-The-Beaten-Path Florida for Adventure Lovers, 14. - Opting Out of Normal. The springs provide excellent swimming opportunities, as well as hiking, fishing and camping. Children love the swing ropes and waterslides, or taking a raft out on the river. Come on back to this heavenly park and pick up another smiley! ! 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. Each turn was a brilliant surprise. Books line the walls of the three small dining rooms, and most guests rave about the shady courtyard and garden patio. 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. Join my email list to receive the latest articles directly in your inbox. They have numerous animals to view and learn about, such as baby alligators, turtles, tortoises, lizards, and other marine life. If you love this article, I also recommend: If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels & Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep you with my workout videos. There are endless exciting encounters and opportunities to keep the entire family excited. Villa Vizcaya is a private mansion and estate belonging to the wealthy businessman James Deering, completed in 1923. and North Shore Dr. Come out for a day trip of watersports and hiking, or bring your camping gear to spend a few days in this paradise. Santa Rosa Beach. It is a free access location with a lovely view of the lake. Come experience the elegance and grandeur of the Biltmore by taking a tour of America's largest home. I traveled via the Yankee Freedom Ferry which is roughly a 2 1/2 hour trip each way, pun intended. All the restaurants are owned by a local who has resided here for years. Additionally, there is a Plant Sale on March 12th and 13th, and entry is free for the weekend. (850) 482-9006. Be aware if you have small children or individuals sensitive to hearing. You can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made (but still spectacular) waterfalls. It is filled with nature and home to 70 parks which host festivals and events year round! It is a great destination for marine biology enthusiasts and is filled with abundant sea life, coral reefs, and tropical birds. 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. There are left and right-hand breaks. 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. 1. Caladesi Island is considered a wild oasis in Florida, this hidden gem in Florida was elected the number one beach in the U.S. in 2018The beach is the main reason people visit Caladesi Island. The beach is pristine, with crystal water, and white sands, surrounded by nature and framed with the blue sky almost all year long. The island is approximately 70 miles from Key West and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. The park is located near an energy plant. ACCOMMODATION: The Coco Plum is an amazing option, located in the heart of Key West with an amazing made-to-order breakfast and heated outdoor pool. WHAT ELSE DO DO IN FLORIDA CAVERNS STATE PARK, TIPS TO VISIT THE FLORIDA CAVERNS STATE PARK. Peter Titmuss / Shutterstock. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. 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. The area is home to many diverse types of coral, like brain or star coral. Snorkeling and scuba diving are absolute musts if you visit, as well as fishing or kayaking along the emerald and aqua waters. There are a host of ravishing views visible as you walk around the island and fort. This location cannot be beat when it comes to a peaceful place to birdwatch, have lunch, and enjoy the Florida sunshine.