Some parts of the US might still be in the peak of winter, but down in the sunnier states, people are already bringing out their bathing suits.
As a Florida local of nearly a decade, some of my favorite days are the ones when I slow down, bask in the sun, and breathe in fresh air while tubing down a crystal-clear spring, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.
Unlike the rowdy tourist beach towns or overcrowded theme parks, this is the Florida I’ve come to know and love.
Away from tourist hot spots such as Disney World or Miami Beach, Florida offers hidden gems for all tastes, whether you’re more nature-inclined or want to explore towns that will make you feel like you’re in Europe.
After living in the state for nearly a decade, I found that the best travel destinations in the state are far from the most famous.
Whether you’re escaping from cold weather or planning a summer trip to Florida, here are seven towns you should visit.
Ponte Vedra Beach
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When picturing a Florida beach vacation, you might think of Miami Beach or maybe Clearwater Beach if you’re aiming for the Gulf Coast. If you’re looking to avoid tourists, however, I recommend visiting the beaches near Jacksonville.
The North Florida shores in Ponte Vedra are mostly lined with single-family houses along the A1A road and can be far from downtown areas, making it the perfect escape if you’re looking to relax rather than party.
Many of these houses, which are often winter homes for their owners, can be rented as Airbnbs, making them ideal for family or group vacations.
The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, a 73,000-acre stretch of wild nature, is also the perfect spot to hike and kayak saltwater marshes while exploring Florida’s wildlife.
St. Augustine
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The oldest town in the US, St. Augustine, was founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers. Today, the city offers a picturesque destination for those looking for history and charm.
Whether you’re enjoying its nearby beaches or immersing yourself in medieval Spanish culture in the city’s historic district, St. Augustine offers a wide range of activities for families and history enthusiasts.
During your time here, make sure to tour the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest fort in the US, and walk along the cobblestoned streets of the historic downtown, like St. George Street, which features a 1716 schoolhouse and dozens of restaurants and boutiques.
Every holiday season, from November to January, the historic district is illuminated for the city’s “Nights of Lights” showcase. Walking through it feels like strolling through a Christmas postcard, only with palm trees and Spanish castles instead of snow.
Cedar Key
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Originally settled in the 1840s, this tiny community in Florida’s Nature Coast — the stretch of the Gulf Coast between Tampa and Pensacola — may not be on your travel radar, but if you enjoy fresh seafood and less crowded areas, it should be.
Cedar Key is a small island located about a 2 1/2-hour drive from Orlando and is one of the largest producers of farm-raised clams in the country. You can enjoy fresh, delicious seafood while sitting on the shore of Florida’s undiscovered coast.
The quiet town is often compared to the more touristy Key West, which was Jimmy Buffett’s home and inspiration. In Cedar Key, you can also enjoy some of the signature Key West attractions — such as key lime pies and small local boutiques — without dealing with the crowds.
As a foodie myself, I can only tell you how amazing the seafood in Cedar Key is. The rest you will have to experience for yourself.
Ocala
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If you’re more of a nature person, head over to Ocala to enjoy clear freshwater springs and Florida forests.
The springs near Ocala are amazing for kayaking or just for taking a dip. While kayaking in the river streams, you might spot some alligators, manatees, and even monkeys.
Additionally, the area is home to one of America’s only elephant rescue farms, Two Tails Ranch, and the longest ziplines in the state at the Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park.
Sarasota
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Some of the best beaches in Florida — and the world — are in Sarasota.
Siesta Key, which has been named as the best beach in the US and fourth best in the world, is a pristine white-sand, turquoise-water beach perfect for families or for relaxing.
The city also offers a variety of art sightseeing, such as Ca’ d’Zan, the Mediterranean-inspired mansion at the Ringling Museum.
If you’re driving from Tampa, prepare to cross the tallest bridge in the state, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. At its peak height, I felt like I was flying on an airplane looking down.
Cocoa Village
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Near the space-themed attractions at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral is Cocoa Village, a small historic downtown filled with local vendors and plenty of art.
The small coastal town also has a variety of food spots for every occasion, including an English tavern, a French bistro, and a fully vegan New American restaurant.
And if you’re looking for a unique experience, you can kayak or paddle the bioluminescent waters of the Indian River Lagoon — you might see a few dolphins, too.
Sombrero Beach
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If you’re making your way down the Florida Keys, you may as well stop to visit a couple of its gorgeous beaches.
While Key West deserves the hype it receives as a travel destination, some of the other spots in the Florida Keys are often overlooked.
South of Marathon Key and north of Key West is Sombrero Beach, one of the most underrated beaches in the US. On this white-sand beach, you can enjoy some of the calmest waters in Florida, perfect for families or for relaxing.
It’s also a turtle-nesting spot, so you might even see a few loggerhead turtles during nesting season.
For a fun historical sight, head a few minutes down the Overseas Highway, and you’ll see some of the remnants of the once-active Overseas Railroad in Bahia Honda Key.
