Show off to your friends with a picture holding an alligator. ACCOMMODATION: A great option is the Hampton Inn in Juno Beach, within walking distance of the beach and near many recreational activities. But for my money, the best eating can be found in a quiet little neighborhood known as Pinecraft, home to an Amish-Mennonite community and its delicious home-cooking restaurants famous for their pies.. Probably you will answer no. TIPS TO VISIT THE SINKHOLES IN GAINESVILLE. Im particularly interested in swimming with manatees! 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. And you'll find no buildings over three stories. This hidden gem boasts over 22 miles of uncrowded beaches and more than 100,000 sprawling acres of parks and conservation lands. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. It is a small spring with stunning green water as the name suggests. This beach is renowned for its turquoise waters and upscale dining, but visitors should also check out the nearby artist colony, Gulf Place. Additionally, there is a Plant Sale on March 12th and 13th, and entry is free for the weekend. I try to go as often as I can, and my dogs love there too. 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. A 65-foot observation tower approximately halfway through the loop allows you to observe the scenic views and meet Grumpy the gigantic alligator from afar, as he does live up to his name. Youll walk away with more knowledge of the area and some great pictures of the waterfalls. It is ideal to bring an extra set of clothes and towels if you plan on exploring more or dining at Boggy Bottom BBQ. Meet The Disney Experts. Explore the trails and go to a campfire circle, where the rangers give talks and put on a slide slow. It is a true gem, boasting gorgeous hikes, a swimming hole, and campsites for those eager to stay overnight! DelacaSeas Cafe: Great hidden gem - See 218 traveler reviews, 112 candid photos, and great deals for Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL, at Tripadvisor. Folly Beach, South Carolina. 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. Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Stop by to see some breathtaking nature and appreciate the history of the area. Relax on the beach and nap before heading out to enjoy the chance to relax. 4) Shop at a Local Farmer's Market. You can also follow the signs at the Indian River Lagoon boardwalk to learn more about the nature that calls Blowing Rocks Preserve home. Performances are still offered, and real-live mermaids, professional swimmers using fins, continue to delight guests. . ACCOMMODATION: Fairfield Inn & Suites Marianna is a great option if you are visiting the State Park, with a pool and breakfast included. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. . 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. The beauty of Honeymoon Island is that its very well preserved, and you can easily spend the whole day here. The best surf spot near Jacksonville is located in Hanna Park. This guide is packed with insider tips on how to visit the best off-the-beaten-path in Florida. While you are here, be sure to check out the local farmers market, or explore the waterways on a scenic boat tour. The most exciting part about the Shark Valley Loop Trail is traveling past the numerous alligators along the loop. 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. The worst of the rainfall typically hits during the hottest months of the year: June, July, and August. Featuring a beautiful bridge and offshore island, this state park is an ideal beach destination, complete with fantastic snorkeling or some of the best beachcombing in the state. DeLand touts one of the first Mainstreet U.S.A. award-winning towns. You will receive your first email soon. I love that it isnt as touristy as other spots and has many interesting activities nearby for those days when its not beach weather. Marathon may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Florida, but it's a hidden gem that's definitely worth . Pack up your sunscreen and camera, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Florida. 2) Alligator Kayaking Safari in Rocks Springs Run. (850) 482-9006. Ravine Garden State Park is a truly majestic place, brimming with history and nature. If you are adventure-minded and looking for an off-the-beaten-path in Florida, I will highly recommend camping in Bahia Honda State Park, one of thebest campgrounds in Florida. The statue of Juan Ponce de Leon is located in downtown St. Augustine that is home to many historical monuments and memorials. 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. Stretching 59 acres, it was constructed by the Works Progress Administration and boasts cypress buildings, rock gardens and fieldstone terraces. 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. Santa Rosa Beach is an unincorporated community on the Florida panhandle in Walton County, and one of the genuine hidden gems of Florida. The Manatee Sanctuary Park in Cocoa Beach is a must-see for those looking to explore the magnificent underwater world of Florida. 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. The prices are reasonable and discounts can be found on Groupon to make it even cheaper. This list was prepared with some of the top Florida things to do and to give you some inspiration for your Florida bucket list. It helps to fundraise for the animals and is a unique experience, to say the least. Gatorland has numerous activities that take place throughout the day. Bring your sunblock and prepare for a whole day of fun in the sun! 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. Gatorland also sells alligator snacks that enable you to feed the alligators. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Once you arrive, the fee is $6.00 per vehicle, and you can stay until sundown. Florida is a Dream Destination, because of its diversity. Santa Rosa Beach is an unincorporated community on the Florida panhandle in Walton County, and one of the genuine hidden gems of Florida. Located in the Florida Keys, Bahia State Park is off mile marker 37 and spans over 500 acres of lush land. 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. Great you have come to the right place! Caves in Florida? Palma Sola Bay is located on Anna Maria Island. The Alligators & Wildlife Discovery Center is a fantastic place to visit and is one of the top tourist destinations in Florida. Some of the rock formations are sharp and prickly; others are smooth and wave-worn. Keep in mind this is a very busy time and it may be worth going another day if you do not plan to buy plants. Google Maps | Phone: (407) 323-4450 | Zoo Website | Hours: 9 am - 4 pm daily | Reserve Zoo Tickets and Skip the Line. Caladesi Island State Park is located on the island by the same name in the Gulf of Mexico. Visit Juno Beach to see the Densest Sea Turtle in the World! 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. 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. Chincoteague is located on Virginia's Eastern Shore and is on a shared stretch of land called Assateague Island National Seashore. It was recently created in the last several years by the strong Hurricane Wilma winds. Whether you are a seasoned pro or brand new to surfing there is a break for you in Jacksonville. 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. It is a fantastic spot to experience the best of nature and outdoor activities, with the famous bridge and offshore island. 3. Located just south of Chipley, Washington County, Falling Waters State Park encompasses 171 acres and is home to the highest waterfall in the state. Cool off later with a dip at the Blue Hole Spring, or go for a hike. Today, the site has become a museum and is open to the public. Click here to find out more about this Florida attraction. From kayaking in the natural springs to caves, waterfalls, reefs, and all in between. 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. While many people visit Florida for classic attractions like Miami or Disney World, there are many secluded beaches, nature attractions and parks outside the cities that are beautiful and not as well-known as Orlando or Fort Lauderdale. Stop by to check out the unique rock formations along the beach and to appreciate the wildlife and diverse landscape on the preserve. This is a real off-the-beaten path in Florida, even for us, locals. The Deltona access point is near Edgewater Condominiums and it is typically not very busy other than residents who come to enjoy a morning coffee or enjoy the sunshine near the water. It depicts the beauty of art and describes the history associated with the city. we just happen to be in the neighborhood she showed us around even gave us some small free vegetables please come and visit them true Florida people real locals. 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. Hi Terri, yes the Ringling Circus is an amazing place and I am so glad you enjoyed this article. The prices at the BBQ are fair, and the airboat ride fees range depending on age, time, and season. forms: { 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. 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. Go swim with Manatees at Crystal River, 8. It was named after the editor of the Miami News, Bill Baggs, who worked at the paper from 1957-1969. Gasparilla Island is a lovely little piece of the Florida Gulf Coast barrier islands and a genuine Florida gem. The springs provide excellent swimming opportunities, as well as hiking, fishing and camping. On the way back, about 90% of the passengers purchased it. This Bed & Breakfast has continental and a la carte breakfast and rooms with a terrace. Take the kids to see the marine life at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park or explore hands-on exhibits at the Emerald Coast Science Center. Come spend the day in nature, under the Florida sunshine. I will most likely have to write a second revision of this post soon. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are located west of Delray Beach in Palm Beach County. 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. I was relieved that I was not selected to volunteer and that the poor woman near us did not throw the spider as I would have done. Donated to the state in 1962, Falling Waters is a great nature retreat. There are camping cabins onsite and beaches, boat slips and hiking trails. So here are the hidden gems on east coast of the USA. Dry Tortugas is a great destination that combines the beautiful coastlines of Florida with a splash of history, and it is home to some great snorkeling exploration in the United States. Chris Cook-Leitz has worked in the travel industry since 2008 and opened her own travel advisor company in 2015. Have a relaxing picnic here surrounded by nature, or go jogging, hiking or biking along the gardens to cover more ground. It is located in Kissimmee and is a moderate trip from downtown Orlando. 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