The Juno Beach Pier is the main hub of activity in town, and you can find a Pier House with a bait shop, snack bar, and pole rentals. There are also boats tours offered or kayaks available for rent, should you wish to explore the river. Wild Florida: Hidden Gem! It has everything from a vibrant city life that provides plenty of things to do and yet it is still laid back. The Gardens also offer numerous services. 6. Try one of their variations on bruschetta or the sandwiches served on their fresh bread. Gatorland also sells alligator snacks that enable you to feed the alligators. Santa Rosa Beach is an unincorporated community on the Florida panhandle in Walton County, and one of the genuine hidden gems of Florida. There are plenty of biking or hiking trails to keep you active, or you can also explore the waterways on a canoe. If youre planning a trip to Florida, the best time to visit Florida is between October and May. Explore the nooks and crannies in Florida Caverns State Park. Access is not guaranteed, and given the popularity of this destination, arriving several hours before opening is advisable. 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. This park provides access to the only air-filled caves open to the public in Florida. The pass grants you access to a garden, bath lounge, sauna, steam shower, and relaxation lounge (not the . The moat surrounding Fort Jefferson is an incredible walk. It is recommended to ask questions about the variety of animals at the ranch. A curious structure built by an even more curious man, the craftsmanship is so detailed and the setup of the estate really is a marvel for one man to achieve on his own. You can also see a restored Byzantine-Romanesque chapel that was also designed by Tiffany himself for the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition. This surf spot is called the poles and is best suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. Are you ready!? It is a great location to visit from any of the areas. 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. The airboats are extremely loud. Make this a nice afternoon coffee and snack break the next time youre in Jacksonville! 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. Dry Tortugas is only accessible by boat or seaplane, and the National Park is well-knowing for the magnificent Fort Jefferson, the stunning blue waters, the incredible coral reefs, and the rich marine life. The ferry provides a morning snack, lunch, and showers so that people can snorkel and rinse off. Universal Studios in Florida is a thriving and active place to go for family fun. Take a look at this list of 14 things you can only find in Florida and prepare to be amazed. Come spend the day in nature, under the Florida sunshine. 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. At more than 600 years old, The Old Senator, a glorious live oak, is located on the grounds of the courtyard of Villa 1565 on San Marco. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. It is filled with adventure activities and some of the best surf in the state. Don't miss the educational center, plant nursery, boardwalk, and butterfly garden. Sanibel Island, Florida (Photo courtesy of Victoria from Florida Trippers) Sanibel Island, Florida. 26 Hidden Gems in Greater Fort Lauderdale You Need to See to Believe. I try to go as often as I can, and my dogs love there too. Check out Pine Island Sound for some of the best fishing in the state or stay back to relax in this small town haven. Powered by Mai Theme, 19 Best Day Trips From Tampa Worth The Effort, Tips For Visiting And Finding Beer Can Island. 2) Alligator Kayaking Safari in Rocks Springs Run. The Cummer Museum of Art is a beautiful art museum in Jacksonville, Florida showcasing over 5,000 pieces of artwork! If you dont have your own horse, you can go on a. Florida's Emerald Coast comprises a few of the Sunshine State's best-kept secrets. I will most likely have to write a second revision of this post soon. Amish Community. 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 park is based on movies such as The Simpsons, Spongebob, Minions, Scooby-Doo, Spiderman, and more. Manatees escape to these warmer waters during periods when the gulf dips below 68 . Crystal River State Park in Citrus County, FL. Some of the most unique things to do in Florida are often right under our noses! Learn a little more about history here: some of the land that is now the state park was formerly part of the Underground Railroad network that helped many fugitive slaves to escape to the Bahamas to freedom. Make sure to see Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890 and still standing to this day. 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. Houseboats can be found for rent on many popular rental websites. Sixteen acres of Japanese gardens are Delray Beach's best hidden gem. 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. . Having lived nearby in Charleston for many years, Folly Beach holds a special place in my heart. 25 Hidden Gems on East Coast: Vacation Spots in USA There are also picnic pavilions and volleyball courts, and its all a perfect environment for a fun family afternoon. However, exploring something off the beaten path can be so much more rewarding. While in the water with your horse, the trainer will teach you how to do some tricks on the horse. Edward Leedskalnin, according to legend, arrived in the U.S. after being left at the altar. There are also ample opportunities to go birding or view other diverse kinds of wildlife, or go fishing, snorkeling, kayaking or swimming. It is a fantastic adventure and you can feel safe knowing your children are on bomb-proof steads which are perfectly well behaved. If you have your own kayak, plan at least 2 hours to go on the dark water to see this magnificent experience. In the early 20 th century, people dumped their trash off the cliffs by the ocean. Weeki Wachee, derived from the Seminole name, means Little Spring or Winding River, is a spring located on the Weeki Wachee River. They include Perdido, Pensacola Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Henderson Beach, State Park, Inlet Beach (next to Panama City Beach), Rosemary Beach, and others mentioned below. Another one of our favorite unusual things To Do In Fort Myers is visit the Manatee Park. This guide is packed with insider tips on how to visit the best off-the-beaten-path in Florida. A true definition of a hidden gem, many Floridians have never heard of Crystal River. 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. Head to a 1920's era fish house called Star Fish Company where you'll find a dockside, hole-in-the-wall-style eatery and market where the catch of the day was swimming just minutes before hitting your plate. 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. 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. 2: Fort Bragg, California. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. A 4 1/2 mile walk on Pine Island Trail allows for the sightings of these delightful animals. Filled with good fishing spots, spectacular natural preserves and lush beaches, Cedar Key might be a small town, but it is a much-loved getaway destination for Floridians. 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. Off-the-Beaten-Path Orlando Hidden Gems Things to Do. Either take a passenger ferry or rent your own private boat from the dock at Honeymoon Island to reach this magical place. Victoria is a native Floridian and writer for OIYS. Cow Key is an offshoot from Key West and is an amazing place to try something new. Besides selling a diverse selection of quilts hand-stitched on . Meet The Disney Experts. Be aware if you have small children or individuals sensitive to hearing. It is open to the public all year round, so dont miss out when you are in the area! Youll see why as soon as you arrive. Another off-the-beaten path in Florida for your bucket list! 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 . While in the neighborhood, stop at Alma Sue's Quilts.. 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 . Cayo Costa State Park is located south of Boca Grande, and is only accessible via boat, ferry or helicopter. Now a state park, there is a wide array of wildlife to be found here, such as sea turtles, manatees and dolphins! Either way, the kitchen will work its magic and delight you. During these months, be prepared to bring a rain jacket and umbrella because the rain can be fierce. Best of all there is something to do here for everyone, whether looking to tube . There are so many of these little treasures that youll never be bored. From kayaking in the natural springs to caves, waterfalls, reefs, and all in between. However, this cruise gives you the freedom to gamble in international waters. It is home to the University of Florida, but its a lot more than your typical college town. Come on back to this heavenly park and pick up another smiley! They offer half-hour booked tours and accept walk-ins. 4 must try florida adventures, which one was your favorite? devils den daytona beach shores & lighthouse point parkcrystal riverkelly park/rock sprin. Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . Pine Island is the largest island off the Gulf coast of Florida and located just 30 minutes from Fort Myers. ACCOMMODATION: The best place to stay is at Everglades City at the Ivey House an eco-friendly hotel only 15 minutes walk from the main attractions. Plus, the very best ones are probably still well hidden. Take a look at this list of, Here Are The 9 Most-Recommended BBQ Restaurants In Florida, According To Our Readers, Plan A Trip To This Underrated Historic Town In Florida, The Ambiance At This Boston-Themed Brunch Spot In Florida Will Transport Your Taste Buds Up North, Order Some Of The Best Seafood In Florida At Molly Goodheads, A Ramshackle Raw Bar, The Remote Lodge In Florida That Will Take You A Million Miles Away From It All. An excellent destination during the winter months, Winter Park is filled with arts and culture explore the downtown area yourself for some fun. 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. TripAdvisor Cindy R. While Florida might not have too many waterfalls worth checking out, Steinhatchee Falls is a hidden gem that outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy. Harry P. 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