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. A half-hour tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy the wild ride and see alligators. The mornings are beautiful, and from the houseboat, I could eat my breakfast while watching the pelicans eat theirs. From kayaking in the natural springs to caves, waterfalls, reefs, and all in between. 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. Off-the-Beaten-Path Orlando Hidden Gems Things to Do. It gets cold when you are speeding and soaked, so it was an ideal time slot for my husband and me. The springs provide excellent swimming opportunities, as well as hiking, fishing and camping. A beach in Florida where you can actually get some alone time is rare indeed. Learn how your comment data is processed. It is only 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando, Winter Park gained its name after the arrival of the South Florida Railroad in 1880. Reserve your spot at the campground in advance to make sure you have a place and enjoy the refreshing outdoors. The Goblin Market is an eclectic bistro that is a must-visit for anyone near the charming town of Mount Dora. Its very easy to reach Honeymoon Island from the mainland. Pine Island is also home to three aquatic preserves, providing ample day trips or activities for nature enthusiasts. Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida: Complete Guide + Insider Tips. There are three campgrounds in the State Park that consist of 80 campsites where you pitch your tent or park your RV. Enjoy some time at this true Florida gem, showing that beauty can be created from storms. Home Florida Vacation Ideas Hidden Gems in Florida 15 Awesome Secret Spots From a Local! The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Wekiwa Island and Wekiwa Springs. There are plenty of biking or hiking trails to keep you active, or you can also explore the waterways on a canoe. 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. Try one of their variations on bruschetta or the sandwiches served on their fresh bread. When you enter the Gardens, it feels like a whole different planet. Spend some time getting to know the works of American designer, Louis Comfort Tiffany this museum boasts the worlds most comprehensive collection of his art. Laura Liden has been a travel advisor since 2011 and, prior to that, she spent 15+ years working in various areas of the hospitality industry. The Singing Tower was constructed next to a reflection pool and is surrounded by a koi pond moat. Located near Clearwater and St Petersburg, Honeymoon Island is one of the best off the beaten path in Florida! Rent a cabin and spend a few nights here, or stay at the campgrounds if youre a fan of beach camping and want to get to know this seaside park a little better. It is recommended to go on a cooler summer day, to use sunscreen, and take a rest in the shaded areas to avoid sunburns. On my trip, approximately 1/3 of the passengers bought Dramamine on the way to the island. It's around 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida, but feels worlds apart with its lush landscape. 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. A trail of statues, memorials, and monuments is in the downtown city of St. Augustine. There are no traffic lights, no chain restaurants or hotels. I love that it isnt as touristy as other spots and has many interesting activities nearby for those days when its not beach weather. There are two museum buildings, the original looks like a Japanese villa and is built on its own island, serene and beautiful surrounded by the Zen-like gardens. Explore the Ten Thousand Island Wildlife Refugee, 7. Rainbow River State Park. The southern terminus is at the Oasis Visitor Center in Ochopee. Then there's the butterfly garden and reptile habitat, making the Secret Woods fun for nature-loving adults and kids alike. Bring your camera because youll want to capture the unique allure of the beach. The statue of Juan Ponce de Leon is located in downtown St. Augustine that is home to many historical monuments and memorials. Meet The Disney Experts. You need to plan your visit ahead, due to the parks remote location and limited transportation options. Chris Cook-Leitz has worked in the travel industry since 2008 and opened her own travel advisor company in 2015. 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. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. Youll find everything from one-on-one lessons to group lessons, and surf packages. TOP TIPS FOR SWIMMING WITH MANATEES AT CRYSTAL RIVER. Perhaps I am biased, as I moved to Florida 16 years ago and I call this place home. Crystal River State Park in Citrus County, FL. 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. This park provides access to the only air-filled caves open to the public in Florida. However, the water is not clear enough to see the bottom, and many signs warn against swimming or jumping into the water due to the risk of alligators and snakes. There are also locations in Tampa and Lake Worth. 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. WHAT ELSE DO DO IN FLORIDA CAVERNS STATE PARK, TIPS TO VISIT THE FLORIDA CAVERNS STATE PARK. It is a great place to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a low-key afternoon in the sun. Enjoy the lagoon or the beach for emerald Gulf waters and bright white sand. There are Albino Alligators who are unable to survive in the wild that are unique to see. 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. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Residence Inn By Mariott, featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center, bar, and lounge. Peter Titmuss / Shutterstock. Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, Walt Disney World, and being the ultimate vacation destination. Make sure to see Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890 and still standing to this day. Im not sure how that is even possible though as it is the only place in the United States where you can legally swim with wild manatees. Molasses Reef is hard to miss from the surface since a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather station is located right next to it. 5) Visit the Cute Small Town of Windermere. Located about an hour south of Gainesville, the small town of Cedar Key is a quaint throwback to old fashioned times. What a hidden gem in Vero Beach! Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. She specializes in booking Disney and . There are also ample opportunities to go birding or view other diverse kinds of wildlife, or go fishing, snorkeling, kayaking or swimming. 2. Stunning flower beds can are along the path and there are plenty of local restaurants. Youll fall in love with the white sand beaches and blue waters and extend your stay just a little longer. It is filled with adventure activities and some of the best surf in the state. You can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made (but still spectacular) waterfalls. Add a touch of culture to your next trip to Florida! 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! 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA Respect the environment and enjoy the proximity to the diverse sea life, like the eels, parrotfish, angelfish and nurse sharks, but do your part to continue preserving the environment by not touching the coral or compromising the ecosystem. Both parks are easy to get to by car and can be toured within a couple of hours. Florida is the most southeast state in the US, bordered on the east by the Atlantic and on the west by the Gulf of Mexico. Winter Park is one of the highlights for adults looking to visit Orlando and find many great things to do in this area. Florida has tons of attractions that you wont find anywhere else in the world, and no, were not talking about Disney World. It is a great location to visit from any of the areas. There is a $6 toll charge to get on the island and the Florida SunPass is not valid. 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. Today, Winter Parks highlight is Park Avenue, a tree-lined, cobblestone street bursting with eateries, museums, and some of Orlandos best areas for shopping. Settle into the lovely courtyard and get ready for some original food options. There are so many reasons to visit gorgeous Chincoteague, Virginia and it definitely is one of the hidden gems of the United States. Gasparilla Island State Park is separated from the Florida Mainland by Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound. The only way to access Dry Tortugas is by seaplane or ferry, The ferry will take about 2 hours, and once you are on the island you are free to roam for 4 hours to tour the fort and take in the beach activities. Cow Key is a quiet destination at night, allowing you to listen to the ocean as you relax in your houseboat. It can be quite impressive after a heavy rain, as the water rushes down 73 feet of limestone into a huge sinkhole. Many locals can be found jumping into the water from the large overhanging trees. Whatever you're looking for, Swap Shop probably has it. A tip for those who are frugal and like their drinks is to sit down at a slot machine and put in a few dollars and await your free drink. Explore the nooks and crannies in Florida Caverns State Park. 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. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of my favorite places to bring the kids; the mermaids are back! 3. It is home to the University of Florida, but its a lot more than your typical college town. This peaceful location is great for families, couples, and singles to enjoy the lake and take in the scenery. Another one of our favorite unusual things To Do In Fort Myers is visit the Manatee Park. In fact, this area is the most significant winter refuge from Manatees in the entire world. 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. There are so many of these little treasures that youll never be bored. The area is filled with artifacts and remnants of ships that ran aground here, making it a visually interesting dive experience filled with lots to see. Camp out to continue appreciating this desolate and gorgeous state park. Gatorland has numerous activities that take place throughout the day. It was created by a group of artists and features incredible pieces of arts. and North Shore Dr. Youll walk away with more knowledge of the area and some great pictures of the waterfalls. Put on your fancy pants and head to this tres chic cafe in Jacksonville that has been an icon for over 20 years. This is a great thing to do on Anna Maria Island, especially if you are traveling with kids. 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. The park offers express passes that can be purchased online. 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. Read More: The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults. The best hidden gems in Florida don't get much better than this. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. 1) Kayaking in the Crystalline Waters of Wekiva State Park. If you are not comfortable with camping, you can rent a cabin which is pretty affordable. But whats really changed over the years is that more of the lesser-known places in Florida have become a draw for visitors. It might sound simple, which in reality, it is! The blue-green water stretches out before you in relative quiet and isolation in a paradise seemingly created just for you. Here we countdown the 15 best and beautiful hidden places in Floridathat you should definitely add to any Florida vacation. The ancient ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy. You do not have to kiss it because holding it can be scary enough. It is easy to navigate the various areas of the garden, which are separated by name on the map. It is incredibly informative and ADA accessible. The Leu House Museum is inside the Welcome Center and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. EST. Come out for a day trip of watersports and hiking, or bring your camping gear to spend a few days in this paradise. 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. Located on Pompano Beach, this unpretentious restaurant is tucked right next to a barber shop, and feels like youve just stepped into your grandmothers house. 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. History buffs visit the shrine to learn about the life of early . Universal Studios in Florida is a thriving and active place to go for family fun. You can also see a restored Byzantine-Romanesque chapel that was also designed by Tiffany himself for the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition. He lived in the second story of the castle tower and gave private tours until his death, never disclosing his construction techniques. 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. Because of its location, there are a lot of fun things to do in Gainesville, including visiting multiple sinkholes. And you'll find no buildings over three stories. Sign Up 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. Go Kayak to Caladesi Island a real gem in Florida, 3. 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. The spring can easily be accessed from near the Lake Monroe Boat Launch. Explore the beach dunes and mangrove wetlands, and learn more about the local ecosystem at the Hawley Environmental Center. Useful 2. The property is located in Merritt Island, Florida, about one hour from Orlando. 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. 4) Shop at a Local Farmer's Market. 20. To put it plainly, Florida is known for Florida attractions. { Go Camping in Bahia Honda State Park, Off-The-Beaten-Path Florida for History & Culture Lovers, Florida Off The Beaten Path: Packing Essentials, 30 Amazing Dream Destinations for Adventure Lover, The Best Things to do in Orland for Adults, 23 Amazing Things to do on Anna Maria Island, FL, Crystal River Small Group Swim with Manatee Tour, Plantation on Crystal River, Ascend Hotel Collection, 150+ Memorable Florida Captions (Sharable Images), 23 Amazing Things to do in Anna Maria Island, FL, A complete guide to visiting Honeymoon Island State Park, FL, A complete guide to visiting Caladesi Island State Park, FL, How to visit Ten Thousand Islands, Florida | A Comprehensive Guide + 8 Things to do. Spots and has many interesting activities nearby for those days when its not weather. Do not have to kiss it because holding it can be toured a... Is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. 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