Florida – the Sunshine State of the USA is a popular destination to visit for holiday travellers, but most people still limit their vacation in this wonderful state to Miami beaches or Orlando theme parks. These are the most well-known places in Florida and are undoubtedly the most popular tourist destinations. And while they are awesome places to visit, why not take the road less travelled and check out some amazing hidden gems in Florida? There are many fascinating spots of Florida that could give you a unique experience while you are here. If you are a US visa holder visiting Florida and you are looking for something different, then these 10 destinations in Florida are worth checking out.
1. Three Sisters Spring
Located on the Crystal River, Three Sisters Spring is a series of natural warm-water springs that flow gently and pool in a natural oasis. This hidden gem in Florida is the perfect spot to unwind in nature and enjoy kayaking and swimming in beautiful blue water. This is also one of the best spots in Florida to see wild manatees.
2. Dry Tortugas National Park
Set in the Gulf of Mexico off the shores of Key West Florida, Dry Tortuga National Park is an amalgam of 7 stunning islands and protected coral reefs. It is one of the USA’s most remote national parks and is located far from the country’s mainland. The park also protects historic sites including the Garden Key Lighthouse and Fort Jefferson from the 19th century. The park is a great place to see turtle nests and go scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters to see a thriving underwater world and the stunning Windjammer wreckage.
3. Gordon River Greenway
Explore the best of Florida’s nature splendours on a stroll through Gordon River Greenway. This 2-mile nature route is a fantastic place to enjoy a variety of recreational activities like biking, skateboarding, or walking along its paved walkways. The trail winds through the Gordon River, Golden Gate Parkway, Freedom Park, Naples Zoo, and Baker Park. Adventurers can look forward to canoe and kayaking experiences in the surroundings of pristine natural ambience, while birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts can spend time here viewing exotic species and animals.
4. Bahia Honda State Park
Skip the overcrowded Miami Beach and head to the secluded, pristine island paradise of Bahia Honda State Park. This breathtaking spot in the Florida Keys is one of the best hidden gems Florida beaches to explore for tranquil leisure. The balmy breeze, sun-soaked beach shores, and swaying palms provide the ideal beach setting for soaking up the sunshine, swimming in warm waters, or going on adventurous snorkelling excursions.
5. Weeki Wachee Springs
Watch mermaids in real life at Weeki Wachee Springs! This spot is known for its mermaid acrobats performing underwater shows. You can spend the day at this natural attraction strolling in the sunshine, taking a leisurely swim, enjoying kayaking or paddle boarding in the spring waters, or even having a splashy good time at the cool pools and water slides at Buccaneer Bay Water Park. This is one of the most unique places to visit in Florida.
6. The Kampong Botanical Garden
The Kampong Garden, which spans more than 9 acres and is situated on Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove, Florida, is draped in an incredible array of tropical fruit cultivars and flowering trees. This attraction was laboriously crafted by the renowned botanist Dr. David Fairchild, whose love of Asian foliage inspired an amazing variety of tropical exotic plants in this lush environment. It is one of Florida’s greenest attractions.
7. Pine Island
Miami in Florida has the trendiest hotspots for beachgoers, but it might not be ideal for someone seeking idyllic serenity for a beach holiday. As soon as you enter the idyllic township of Pine Island, Florida, the mood completely changes from the rest of the state. Pine Island, which is proud to be the largest island off the coast of Florida, is where the state’s last remaining traditional fishing community is located. This is a beautiful location where you may live like an islander, observe extraordinary wildlife and birds, socialise with locals, and indulge in some delicious Florida seafood cuisine.
8. Molasses Reef
located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Molasses Reef lies to the southeast of Key Largo. This vast coral reef is unquestionably the ideal place to witness diverse marine life while scuba diving. If you hold a US visa and want to explore some water adventures, the Molasses Reef should feature on your travel plan. Its crystal clear water and abundant aquatic life provide discerning divers with the opportunity to see and swim with Green Moray eels, Southern Stingrays, Sea turtles, hawksbill and loggerhead sea turtles, and many more aquatic species.
9. Florida Caverns State Park
The Florida Caverns State Park is definitely worth your time when visiting Florida. Embark on a remarkable expedition to explore a unique underground network of limestone caverns. You can schedule guided tours in advance to see the beautiful carvings and creations of nature. This is the only spot in Florida where you can have such an enthralling, unusual, and out-of-the-ordinary experience.
10. Falling Waters State Park
Another fascinating State Park to check out in Florida, Falling Waters State park is sure to melt away your stress and soothe your soul with its exceptional natural scenic beauty. Falling Waters State Park, which has a 70-foot-tall waterfall, is a beautiful spot to go hiking and reconnect with the wonders of nature. If you are up for it, this is also a fantastic place to spend some time camping in the wilderness.
