Author: Greg Insco

The Rivers in Florida You Have to See

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Activities and Attractions, Lakes, Springs, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do. No Comments on The Rivers in Florida You Have to See

Thinking about taking a trip to Central Florida? Perhaps you want to visit the coast and soak up the sun. Whatever the case, if you’re planning on spending any amount of time in the Sunshine State then you really ought to think about visiting a Florida river.

Famed for its clear water, each Florida river has something unique going for it, whether it’s the stunning locations along the banks, the water sports or even just the history behind each area. Because of that, you’re sure to find a Florida river to suit you. If you’re a thrill-seeker, a wildlife lover, or even just looking to make some special memories with a family member.

Florida also has some of the best weather in the country, as well as stunning local flora and fauna that’s utterly unmissable, especially if you have an interest in wildlife. Why not consider taking a digital camera with you or packing a sketchbook and some pencils so that you can capture some of the wildlife as you see it?

We’re not here to convince you of the virtues of visiting one of Florida’s many rivers because we think the idea sells itself. Still, picking out the best destination can be difficult, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. Here are just a few of the Florida rivers that are worth going out of your way for.

The Top Rivers in Florida

1. The Suwannee River

The Suwannee River is one of the most well-known rivers in the whole of Florida, and for good reason. Its beautiful blackwaters stretch for nearly 250 miles and are known and loved for everything from their rapids to the stunning limestone along the banks. If you’re planning a visit, it’s a great spot for watching the wildlife or for canoeing along the river. You can even follow it all the way along to the Gulf of Mexico.

2. St. John’s River

Also known as the Rio San Juan in Spanish, the St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida, bordering twelve counties. The St Johns River is also one of the slower rivers, which makes it perfect for swimming and casual water sports. It also runs alongside the Kissimmee River, meaning that you can easily visit both of them at the same time.

3. Apalachicola River

The Apalachicola River runs for less than half the length of the other two that we’ve mentioned, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re in Florida. Stretching along the Gulf of Mexico, it’s navigable throughout the year, though you’ll want to check the best routes to take, based on the season.

It’s also a must-see because it marks the state line between Florida and Georgia, near the town of Chattahoochee, which you might have heard of because of the Alan Jackson song. And if that’s not enough, it also passes through a number of stunning forests. Definitely one to think about if you want to lose yourself in nature.

4. Crystal River

Ever wanted to swim with a manatee? Of course you have! Fortunately, this stunning river is one of the only places we’ve ever heard of where you can legally swim with a manatee while chilling out in the Florida sunshine. Better still, you can legally swim with a manatee in its natural habitat.

The river has clear water too, which you probably guessed from its name, with warm temperatures throughout the year. While you’re there, think about stopping by the Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge to stroll along the boardwalk that stretches out over the river.

5. Santa Fe River

What can we say about the Santa Fe River that hasn’t been said already? This is history as well as geography, and the iconic river’s watershed is so extensive that it stretches for nearly 1,500 square miles throughout Colombia, Suwannee, Bradford, Gilchrist, and Alachua county. That’s quite impressive, considering it is only 75 miles long. It’s a stunning part of Florida and one of the highlights of the United States, but it can also get pretty busy because it’s not a very well-kept secret.

6. Peace River

The Peace River is… well, peaceful! Stretching along the southwest coast of Florida, it’s known for its stunning inlets and streams, as well as its rich history. It’s the only place in the whole of the United States that we know about where you can float along the river or go digging for megalodon – yes, megalodon – teeth.

That makes it a particularly good place to visit if you’re traveling as a family, especially if one or more of your children is a budding scientist or a keen young archaeologist. But even if you just want to get away from the crowds while still enjoying the Florida weather, it makes for a fantastic destination.

7. Ichetucknee River

This stunning spring-fed river is in north Florida and only stretches for six miles or so, making it the shortest river on this list, but still worth the visit. The vast majority of the river is within the Ichetucknee Springs State Park, and its pristine waters are so clear that you can see all five feet down to the riverbed. In fact, the water is so pure that you could probably drink it, although we’d advise against it. Just stretch out on the riverbank and soak up some of the Florida sun instead.

8. Kissimmee River

This fully navigable river is towards the south of Florida and passes through a number of lakes until it reaches its final destination of Lake Okeechobee. It’s known for the diversity of its wildlife, making it a great destination for wildlife photographers and birdwatchers, and there are also plenty of amenities nearby for you to make a vacation of it.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Kissimmee River is currently undergoing restoration and conservation after some historic mismanagement. Because of that, it can help to think of it as a work in progress.

Conclusion

There are plenty of other rivers for you to check out if you’re visiting Florida, and so whether you’re staying in Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami, or Orlando, it’s worth spending some time looking at which rivers are nearby so that you can spend some time on the water. We haven’t even mentioned the Myakka River or the Withlacoochee River, for example.

If you’re planning on visiting Florida to check out some of the rivers, it’s also a good idea for you to visit a State Park or two while you’re at it. The two tend to attract people of similar backgrounds and interests, and there’s a reason for that. There’s a lot of crossover, especially if you’re into walking, spending time amongst nature, and seeing the stunning array of flora and fauna on display in the state of Florida.

Now that you know just a few of the top rivers to check out during your trip to Florida, the next step is for you to start planning out the rest of the details. Figure out where you want to visit, whether you want to meander through central Florida or whether you want to hang out by the Gulf of Mexico, and see what your availability is like in your planner.

Once you have your destination in mind, you can start to check what’s nearby, bearing in mind any special requirements you might have. If you plan to go camping on the banks of the Myakka River, for example, then you’re going to need to look for a campground. Otherwise, check out local hotels and Airbnbs.

The good news is, you now have all the information you need to start planning your Florida holiday, and with lots for you to see and do all throughout the year, there’s no excuse not to pay the state – and its rivers – a visit. Happy travels.

The Best Spots for Tubing in Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Springs, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do. No Comments on The Best Spots for Tubing in Florida

In the height of summer, Florida can get seriously hot. As the temperatures rise, native Floridians and tourists alike look for the best way to cool off and beat the heat. In Florida, in the summer, nothing beats a dip in a crystal clear, natural spring to provide a break from the baking heat, and the most fun to be had at a natural spring comes from gently drifting downstream on an inner tube.

Although Floridians are blessed with a huge variety of outdoor activities, river tubing in Florida is hard to beat. It is hard to think of a more relaxing way to spend an afternoon than floating peacefully on an inner tube surrounded by the stunning beauty of a Florida state park. Tubing in Florida springs is a chilled-out way to explore the natural beauty of some of the most scenic places in this great state.

Florida has over 900 beautiful natural springs, one of the largest concentrations of freshwater springs and aquifers in the whole world, and over 40 of them are open to the public. North Florida and Columbia County, in particular, have some of the most beautiful springs, and the ones most suited for tubing! Read on for our picks and suggestions for the best springs for tubing in Florida.

*Please check each park’s website for up-to-date details on amenities and pricing.

Ichetucknee Springs, Fort White

Ichetucknee Springs State Park near Fort White in Columbia County is considered the best tubing destination in North Florida, and probably in the entire Sunshine State. Only two and a half hours from Orlando, Ichetucknee’s nine springs are absolutely perfect for wiling away a sunny summer day. The water is a constant 72 degrees, and completely clear all the way down, meaning you can keep an eye out for fish and turtles as well.

Ichetucknee offers two unique tubing experiences. Set off from the north end tube launch (only open for the season from Memorial Day on) for a glorious three-and-a-half-hour adventure through the picturesque landscape of this state park, or depart from the south end (open year-round) for shorter journeys.

Activities

Hiking
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Picnicking
Cave diving at Blue Hole Spring

Costs

$6 per car
$5 for tram service
$7 for shuttle service

Location: Ichetucknee Springs State Park, 12087 Southwest, US-27, Fort White, FL 32038

Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon

Rainbow Springs State Park is steeped in history. One of Florida’s most beautiful first-magnitude springs, Rainbow Springs slowly developed from phosphate pits to a gorgeous area of outstanding natural beauty throughout the 20th century. Recent discoveries have shown that people have been coming to this spot to enjoy the cool waters for nearly 10,000 years, and it is not hard to see why!

While tubing is not allowed in the main headsprings of the park, there is a separate entrance for tube launches, about nine miles from the main entrance to the springs. Tubes are available for rent inside, and the lazy river ride lasts around two hours.

Activities

Hiking
Camping
Picnicking

Costs

Park entry $2 per person or $5 per vehicle
Tube hire $20

Location: Rainbow Springs State Park, 19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432

Blue Springs State Park, Orange City

Blue Springs State Park is a pretty special spot, the largest spring on the St Johns River, and the home to a mysterious and beautiful manatee population. The State Park is gorgeous, with classic ‘Old Florida’ scenery, while the Blue Spring itself has a constant ‘boil’ of air bubbles which makes it a superb place for a swim.

The tubing run in Blue Springs is short, just an eighth of a mile, from the upper entry gravel bank past the spring boil and down to the main swim dock. However, the beauty of Blue Springs is such that even this short trek is well worth it, and is a lovely addition to a day of snorkeling, diving, or manatee watching in the mainspring.

Activities

Hiking
Diving
Snorkeling
Wildlife watching
Birding
Cave diving
Boating

Costs

$6 per vehicle

Location: Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Avenue, Orange City, FL 32763

Kelly Park, Apopka

Kelly Park is a haven for nature lovers and boasts one of the best short tubing runs in North Florida. The park is full of wildlife, from alligators and turtles to birds, otters, and even (on rare occasions) monkeys, and plenty of people come here to launch kayaks from Kings Landing and explore the natural world around them.

Rock Springs Run is a fast-flowing, three-quarters of a mile-long stretch of water that joins with the Wekiwa Springs to form the headwaters of the Wekiva River, and is an immensely popular spot for river tubing in Florida. You can rent tubes along the roadside before entering the park, or feel free to bring your own.

Activities

Wildlife watching
Birding
Kayaking
Off-road bicycling
Hiking
Horseback riding
Camping

Costs

Park entry $3-5 per vehicle
Tube rental $7

Location: Kelly Park, 400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is a beautiful spot on the Santa Fe River, and a real local favorite. Located in High Springs, Ginnie Springs is a slice of pure Florida, with incredibly clear waters and a fantastic range of activities for families.

The tubing run at Ginnie Springs stretches along the Santa Fe River from Devil’s Spring to Twin Spring and takes about an hour. The waters are calm and tranquil, and the float is a wonderfully relaxing experience. This is one of the few tubing runs that offer free air stations throughout the park to refill your tube, and it is also one of the only springs that allows alcoholic beverages while tubing, which can make the crowd on weekends a little more boisterous than at other places!

Activities

Camping
Diving
Snorkeling
Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding
Picnicking
Volleyball

Costs

General admission $14
Dive pass $22-30
Camping $22

Location: Ginnie Springs, 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643

Wakulla Springs State Park

The first-magnitude Wakulla Springs is the source of the majestic Wakulla River, and one of the deepest and biggest freshwater springs in the world! Wakulla Springs is a pretty fascinating spot to explore, with a vast array of wildlife to discover, and some brilliant outdoor adventures to take part in such as a jumping tower, a jungle cruise, and a 1930s revival hotel and lodge for overnight stays. They even discovered the remains of a prehistoric mastodon at the bottom of one of the springs!

You can float freely on a tube at the giant swimming hole near the main Wakulla Spring, or take to the river and enjoy a leisurely drift downstream, taking in the dramatic jungle scenery (where Tarzan was filmed!) as you go.

Activities

Swimming
Camping
Birding
Boating
Kayaking
Hiking

Costs

Park entry $6 per vehicle
Glass bottom boat tours $8

Location: Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, 465 Wakulla Park Dr., Wakulla Springs FL 32327

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is 250 acres of secluded oak forest tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of Florida. The park contains a selection of natural springs, a spring run to the Santa Fe River, and some significant ecological habitats which create an incredible diversity of wildlife.

Tubing options here are on the relaxed side, with the possibility of taking the spring run or floating down the Santa Fe River itself.

Activities

Camping
Geo-seeking
Snorkeling
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Hiking

Costs

Park entry $4-6 per vehicle

Location: Ruth B Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, 7450 NE 60th St, High Springs FL 32643

Your Guide to Hiking in Florida: All the Routes You Need to Know

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Parks and Outdoors, Things to Do. No Comments on Your Guide to Hiking in Florida: All the Routes You Need to Know

Knowing that you want to go hiking in Florida is one thing, and knowing which hiking trails to take is something else entirely. Fortunately, we’ve identified just a few of the top hiking spots in Florida for you to investigate. Here’s where you’ll want to get started.

1. Big Shoals State Park Trail

This stunning Florida trail is in one of the State’s most well-known and well-loved tourist destinations. Open from 8 AM until sundown every day of the year, it has huge limestone cliffs, stunning views and of course its Class III Whitewater rapids. You have to be a decent navigator and kayaker if you want to sail the full length of the shoals, but hikers of any ability can manage the trail.

2. Bulow Woods Loops

This 5.3-mile-long trail runs in a loop (hence the name) and is right by Florida’s Flagler Beach. That makes it my favorite Florida trail for when I want to go for a stroll with my family before relaxing on the beach with an ice cream. And as you can tell from the “Woods” in the name, you can expect to see plenty of trees as well as fantastic year-round nature hikes and some of the best birdwatching you’ll find in a State Park. You can even take your dogs with you, as long as you keep them on a leash.

3. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

This Florida trail is to the west of the Everglades, and about 30 minutes east of Naples (no, not the one in Italy). Hikers love this one because it has everything that makes the Glades such a popular destination, from the wildlife to the fact that it feels as though you’ve traveled hundreds of years back in time. The trail will take you along for 1.5 mi or so and then eventually lead you out to the largest forest of bald cypresses in the whole of North America. Just make sure that the boardwalk is open before you go because you’re not going to want to miss it!

4. Highlands Hammock State Park

This is another one of those spots that makes you feel as though you’ve fallen through a wormhole and emerged hundreds of thousands of years in the past. Part of that is because of the fragile ecosystems that are still being preserved there for future generations to enjoy. This is a good one to visit if you’re a nature buff, but be sure to clean up after yourself and to respect the flora and fauna. They say it has more rare species than any other Florida State Park.

5. Prairie Lakes Loop

This Florida trail is a relatively new one, at least when you compare it to some of the others that hikers enjoy. It’s also no longer a State Park, although it did once hold that honor and that doesn’t mean that it’s fallen from glory. It’s a solid destination for everyone from hikers and wildlife photographers to families who are looking to spend a memorable vacation together. It’s also easy to get to and relatively cheap to park at, which means you can travel there on a budget, too.

6. Citrus Hiking Trail

This is one of the longest hiking trails in our list with over 43 miles for you to explore, so it can be a good one to spend a week at if you want to cover every inch of it. In particular, its backpacking loop is the second biggest of all of the hiking trails in Florida. Even the shortest loop is 7.5 miles long, making this one of the more challenging spots on this list, though don’t let that put you off. It’s worth it! You can even take a campervan if you have one as there are plenty of sites nearby for you to stay at.

7. Ocala National Forest Trail

This trail is an interesting one to think about because of its sheer versatility. Sure, if you like walking long distances and pushing yourself to your limits then you might want to cover the 100 mile or so backpacking route, but you can also take the half-mile stroll along to the boardwalk. You don’t have to be a backpacker to enjoy this one, but it does help as it’s particularly well-suited to backpacking and exploring.

8. Big Cypress National Preserve

The Big Cypress National Preserve is to the west of Miami and is home to some stunning freshwater marine estuaries as well as hundreds of thousands of acres of swamp that back onto the iconic Everglades. In particular, you’ll want to be on the lookout for the Florida panther, as this is the only State Park I know of where you’ll be able to see it. Don’t worry, though – they’re more afraid of us than we are of them.

9. White Springs Area Trails

White Springs was originally mostly known for being a natural springs spa town, but now the area is arguably much more well-known because of the facilities available for hikers, cyclists, canoers and kayakers who want to explore the area. It’s unique amongst all the other trails on our list because this is the only one that takes you literally right through the center of town. While you’re there, why not learn some more about the history of the spa?

The Best Springs in Northern Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Activities and Attractions, Springs, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do. No Comments on The Best Springs in Northern Florida

The glittering, crystal-clear waters of North Florida’s natural freshwater springs are one of the state’s most compelling tourist attractions. The gorgeous turquoise and azure-blue waters of the natural boils and aquifers are perfect for a cooling swim in the heat of the day, or snorkeling and scuba diving in the caves underground. The State Parks that surround the springs offer wonderful opportunities for boating and canoeing through the natural beauty of the area, hiking down shaded trails, or discovering the amazing birds and wildlife that call North Florida home.

North Florida is home to the largest collection of natural springs on the planet, and wherever you turn you can find a hidden pool or swift-flowing stream to explore. Some springs, however, stand out from the rest, and whether you are looking for a family-friendly place to relax and swim, or an adventurous day diving into deep caverns or taking on white-water rapids, these five North Florida springs offer unique, exciting and truly special experiences.

*Please check each park’s website for up-to-date details on amenities and pricing.

Blue Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days

Location: 2100 W French Avenue, Orange City FL 32763

Fees:

$6 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.

$4 Single Occupant Vehicle.

$2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicles with the holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Camping: $24 per night, plus tax, plus a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee. Includes water and electricity.

Cabins: $95 per night, plus tax, plus a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee.

Blue Spring State Park along the banks of the Santa Fe River is a truly special spot. Blue Spring itself boasts delightful 72-degree waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. The real standout feature of the Blue Spring run though, is its magnificent manatee population. Over 485 manatees call this stretch of water home during the winter months, making it an astonishing place to get up close to one of nature’s most fascinating creatures.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are available in the spring, while shaded trails in the State Park are perfect for hikers and explorers. Kayaking and canoeing are readily available, with several launch points along the river.

Rainbow Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. – Sunset, 365 days

Fees: $2 per person. Children under 6 are free

Location: 19158 SW 81st Place Rd., Dunnellon FL 34432

Pristine parkland, sapphire-blue waters and centuries of fascinating history await visitors at Rainbow Springs State Park. Although the springs modern history is obvious, with man-made waterfalls and ornamental gardens evidence of a time when it was a private tourist attraction and mining operation, humans have lived near the fresh waters of Rainbow Springs for over 10,000 years.

These days, visitors come to walk the trails through verdant, mossy hammocks, discover the amazing birds and wildlife that call the State Park home, and go tubing down the Rainbow River.

Ginnie Springs

Summer Hours:

Monday – Thursday – 8am – 7pm

Friday & Saturday – 8am – 9pm

Sunday – 8am – 8pm

Winter Hours:

Monday – Thursday – 8am – 4pm

Friday & Saturday – 8am – 8pm

Sunday – 8am – 6pm

Fees:

Adults (10% discount to seniors 62+) – $14.02

Children ages 6-12 – $3.73

Children 5 & under – Free

Location: Ginnie Springs Outdoors, LLC, 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643

The exquisite natural beauty of Ginnie Springs is genuinely breathtaking, with some of the clearest fresh spring water in the whole of Florida. 200 acres of gorgeous park and forest lining the banks of the Santa Fe River, and the springs offer an amazing array of activities for adventurous nature lovers, from stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and tubing to snorkeling and cave diving. Shoals of colorful fish and turtles offer something for nature lovers, while the shaded Springside campsites are a wonderful way to get in touch with the natural environment.

Ginnie Springs is the perfect spot for visitors looking to discover the beauty of the world around them while not sacrificing a little bit of luxury. Amenities include volleyball courts, covered pavilions, playgrounds, and even wifi-access, alongside wooden decking and entry stairs to every spring.

Madison Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

Fees: $4-5 per vehicle. $2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.

Location: 8300 NE State Road 6, Lee FL 32059

Hidden amidst verdant pine and hardwood forest, this unbelievably picturesque spring is a breathtaking oasis of crystal-clear waters and pure natural tranquility. Voted the No. 1 swimming hole in the entire country by USA Today, Madison Blue Spring is certainly one of the finest of the North Florida Springs and is a haven for families and nature lovers looking for a beautiful setting for picnicking, canoeing, and swimming.

The freshwater spring rises into a limestone basin just a stone’s throw from the Withlacoochee River and offers great opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and cave diving, as well as some delightful shaded nature trails for hikers and birders. The river itself is a great spot for paddling and tubing, with canoes, kayaks, and tubes all available for hire nearby.

Ichetucknee Springs

Hours: 8 a.m. until sunset

Fees:

$6 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.

$4 Single Occupant Vehicle.

$4 Motorcycle Fee (one or two people).

$2 Pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.

A tram and shuttle service is offered by our park concessionaire.

The cost of tram service is $5.50 plus tax per person.

The cost for shuttle service is $7.50 plus tax per person which also includes tram service.

Location: 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27, Fort White FL 32038

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is probably the best tubing spot out of all of the North Florida springs or State Parks. The 2,669 acres of State Park is a haven for wildlife, and home to a number of gorgeous natural springs and freshwater boils (including the wonderful Blue Hole), but the real draw of this amazing little slice of paradise in North Florida is tubing the six-mile stretch of the Ichetucknee River. Rent tubes nearby, or bring your own, then lie back and relax as you float downriver under the canopy of shaded hammocks. This is without a doubt one of the best ways to see North Florida’s natural beauty at its very finest.

Snorkeling in Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Parks and Outdoors, Springs, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do. No Comments on Snorkeling in Florida

Year-round sun, golden sand, warm tropical waters, and coral reefs all make Florida the perfect destination for a snorkeling vacation. From gorgeous beaches and mysterious shipwrecks to crystal clear freshwater springs and tranquil lagoons, the state has everything snorkeling fans could want, and more.

Snorkeling in Florida guarantees amazing experiences wherever you are in the state. The diversity of options and habitats is incredible, with stark contrasts between the warm waters of the Gulf, the remote islands of the Keys, the rougher Atlantic, and the clear natural springs of North Florida. From tropical fish, dolphins, sharks, and stingrays to manatees and turtles, life underwater in Florida is remarkable and well worth discovering.

With over 1,000 miles of coastline to explore, deciding where to go snorkeling in Florida can be tough. We’ve put together a list of some of the best snorkeling spots in the Sunshine State, so all you need to do is pack your gear and plan your perfect Florida snorkeling vacation!

Florida Springs in North Florida

North Florida is famous for its extensive system of freshwater natural springs, where locals and tourists alike flock to escape the heat and humidity of the summer months. These picturesque destinations are also superb snorkeling spots, with crystal clear waters providing spectacular visibility.

Crystal River

Crystal River is probably the most famous snorkeling spot in North Florida. Emptying into the Gulf at Kings Bay, this beautiful waterway is home to various colonies of manatees who migrate to the warm waters during the winter months. The fresh, spring-fed water offers perfect visibility of these remarkable herbivorous mammals, whose curiosity and friendliness often allow you to swim alongside them.

Ginnie Springs

An incredibly popular spring system with the locals, Ginnie Springs is a superb spot for a family day out. The recreation area, complete with a volleyball court and a kids’ playground, offers a load of distractions, while the seven springs are a little slice of classic North Florida. The crystal clear water in the springs offers amazing views of freshwater fish and turtles, and the warm water makes the experience truly relaxing.

Ichetucknee Springs

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is widely considered to be the crown jewel of North Florida and is certainly one of the most picturesque places in the state. This national natural landmark is bursting with natural beauty, and the springs that make the park what it is are pristine and breathtaking. Snorkeling at Ichetucknee Springs in the cool, inviting depths of the Blue Hole or the open beauty of the main Head Spring is a delightful experience and is possible year-round, thanks to the natural warmth of the waters.

Alexander Springs

Only a short drive from Orlando, Alexander Springs is beautifully located in the heart of the Ocala National Forest. This wide, gentle, first magnitude spring is surrounded by gorgeous yellow pine forests, and its wide sandy beach makes it a lovely spot to relax and get back to nature. Snorkelers will enjoy exploring the natural limestone rock formations in the spring boil, and discovering all manner of aquatic life including bass, turtles, otters, and even Alice, the 12-foot alligator who calls Alexander Springs home.

Blue Springs State Park

A delightful collection of natural springs and a shallow spring run just a few miles west of High Springs, Blue Springs State Park on the Santa Fe River is the newest Florida State Park. The natural springs offer a number of possibilities for snorkeling, with the clear spring waters providing exceptional visibility and the chance to see turtles, sunfish, bass, and catfish.

Florida Keys

Stretching out into the Gulf of Mexico towards Cuba, the Florida Keys is a special part of the world. With colorful coral reefs and an extraordinary array of sea creatures, life underwater is pretty exciting too.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo

Most snorkeling adventurers who come to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo are here for the iconic underwater statue of Christ the Redeemer, and it is a very impressive draw indeed. 4,000 pounds of bronze standing three meters high submerged in the shallow waters near Dry Rocks, this beautiful sculpture is an exciting sight to encounter on a snorkeling trip. The coral reef here is a stunning sight too, an underwater state park created thanks to a huge conservation effort, with a variety of species to encounter, including barracuda and tarpon! While the best snorkeling can be had from the tour boats out on the reef, swimming out from Cannon Beach is almost as exciting, with the wreck of a Spanish galleon complete with cannons to be discovered.

Bahia Honda State Park

The 500 acres of Bahia Honda State Park in Big Pine Key are a wonderful choice for beginner snorkelers and young families. The reef is shallow and the waters are calm, and loads of stunning corals and fish can be found just a few strokes from the shore. The gorgeous golden beach fringed with palms makes the perfect place to relax, and there’s even a concession that serves tasty snacks.

Alligator Reef Lighthouse

Heading out on a boat tour from Islamorada will take you to Alligator Reef, one of the more picturesque snorkeling spots in the Florida Keys. A shallow reef, some way from the shore, provides an amazing gathering spot for literally thousands of tropical fish, while more advanced snorkelers might be tempted to head to the deeper reef wall near the lighthouse. This spot offers the chance to see barracuda, sea turtles, and even hammerhead sharks!

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas offers an altogether different experience than most other snorkeling spots in Florida. Remote, even by the standards of the Florida Keys, this marine national park is about 70 miles west of Key West, so a boat trip is necessary. Once you get out here, you’ll find a paradise of shallow coral islands, deep open water, and the famous Windjammer Wreck, the sunken remnants of a ship built-in 1875. Snorkeling around this wonderful little slice of paradise is the perfect opportunity to get up close to a huge variety of electric tropical fish, huge queen conch shells, lobsters, and starfish. Due to its distance from Key West, Dry Tortugas has one of the healthiest coral reefs in Florida and is well worth a day trip.

South Florida

Plenty of people who visit South Florida think that to get good snorkeling they have to head down to the Keys, but there are plenty of excellent snorkeling destinations around Miami and Palm Beach, as well.

Biscayne National Park

The main event for snorkelers at Biscayne National Park is the Half Moon shipwreck. This ship, originally named the Germania, was moored offshore from Miami during the Prohibition era and was sunk in Biscayne Bay in 1930. It now lies just 10 feet below the surface, making it great viewing for beginner and expert snorkelers alike. The rest of Biscayne Bay is just as lovely, with shoreline mangrove forests and pretty coral reefs.

Phil Foster Park

Phil Foster Park boasts an outstanding snorkeling trail just 200 feet from the beach, which stretches for over two acres. The artificial reef system that has been created here attracts over 300 different species of marine life, including yellow-headed jawfish, seahorses, and even the occasional octopus! A nearby lifeguard stand makes it a safe place, even for beginners.

Coral Cove Park

Some wonderful natural limestone formations and the nearby Blowing Rocks Preserve make Coral Cove an excellent place for snorkelers. The rock formations attract a wonderful diversity of marine life, with brightly colored tropical fish in abundance. On a good day, you might even see larger species such as nurse sharks, barracuda, loggerhead turtles, and eels.

Peanut Island

A man-made island just off the coast of Palm Beach, Peanut Island boasts a tranquil lagoon that is home to plenty of tropical fish, as well as stingrays, small sharks, and even manatees. It is incredibly easy to access and provides a load of helpful amenities for non-snorkelers, including picnic tables, campsites, and the Kennedy Bunker historical site.

Jose Cuervo Margarita Bar

For something completely different, snorkeling enthusiasts and lovers of weird underwater sights might want to head to the Jose Cuervo Margarita Bar. Built as a promotional stunt for Jose Cuervo, it was deliberately sunk during the Cinco de Mayo Festival in 2000 and now sits at the bottom of the sea just off Miami Beach. Join the fishy regulars at what is probably the most unusual snorkeling spot in all of Florida!

Gulf of Mexico

Florida’s Gulf Coast is a real contrast to the glitz and glamor of Miami and the East Coast. Here, the lifestyle is more laid back and relaxed, and the lush tropical landscape makes for the perfect backdrop. The ocean conditions on this side of the state don’t always favor snorkeling, as the water has a tendency to be murky, but there are a number of excellent snorkeling spots in the Gulf if you are willing to look closely.

Destin

Destin really lives up to its Emerald Coast billing, with dazzling green waters and perfect sandy beaches. Snorkelers will find a wealth of potential underwater destinations here, from the soft white sand of Norriego Point and the clear Gulf water of Henderson Beach State Park to the artificial reefs at East Pass and Destin Jetties.

St. Andrews State Park

A former military installation with over one and a half miles of beach, St Andrews State Park is a gorgeous spot full of fascinating natural life, thanks to its five distinct ecological habitats. The extensive shoreline and rock jetties provide ample opportunities for snorkelers to explore marine life, while the beaches are equally perfect for swimmers and surfers too.

Regina Shipwreck

In 1940, the SS Regina sank off the coast of Sarasota in Southwest Florida. Now the remains of this huge tanker sit on the bottom of the sea at Bradenton Beach near Anna Maria Island and provide the best snorkeling experience in the area. The sea can get rough and murky in bad weather, so it is worth waiting for calm skies and tranquil seas before heading out to the wreck site.

Naples

There are a few decent snorkeling spots around Naples, a delightful town south of Sanibel Island just outside the Everglades in Southwest Florida. Delnor-Wiggins State Park offers a shallow coral reef that is easily accessible from the stunning beach, while in good weather you can even snorkel off Naples Municipal Beach. The jewel in the crown here though is Tigertail Beach at Marco Island, a short drive down the coast. The beaches and seas here are pristine due to its somewhat remote location, and the site is well known for dolphin sightings close to shore!

When to snorkel in Florida

Florida’s tropical climate means that it boasts warm weather year-round, and has the mildest winters in the continental US. Depending on where you go, you can find great snorkeling spots all year long. If you are heading to the Florida Keys or South or Southwest Florida, you’ll want to visit in summer, when the weather is warm and dry. Central Florida is great in the spring and early summer, while the springs of North Florida are the perfect place to cool off if you are on a summer vacation. But whenever you visit, you’ll always be able to find amazing snorkeling spots in this wonderful vacation destination.

14 Unique Things to Do in Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Parks and Outdoors, Springs and Lakes, Things to Do. No Comments on 14 Unique Things to Do in Florida

Florida’s state motto used to be “the rules are different here,” and it is truly a special and unique place to visit. As a vacation destination, it is almost unrivaled, with great weather year-round, beautiful beaches across the length and breadth of the state, and an amazing array of exciting experiences and magical locations to discover.

But there are some places in particular that are unique to Florida, offering things to do that you just can’t find anywhere else in the world. These wonderful spots, some hidden away and undiscovered, and some world-famous, are what make the Sunshine State such an amazing place to be.

To really get a feel for Florida, and to fully explore everything that this wonderful state has to offer, you might need to get off the beaten path and search for places a little under the radar. With that in mind, here are 14 of the most exciting, unusual, and amazing places to visit and things to do that you can only find in Florida.

Cool off in a swimming hole

The natural mineral springs of North Florida are one of the state’s most attractive natural wonders, and hands down the best places to cool off in the heat of the summer. These natural swimming holes are a wonderful way to get back to nature and offer a unique swimming experience, as well as beautiful scenery and fascinating flora and fauna.

Places like Blue Springs and Ginnie Springs on the Santa Fe River offer extraordinary sparkling blue pools with water so clear you can see your shadow on the sandy bottom. Alternatively, the emerald green waters of places like Poe Springs and Rum Island Springs offer a more surreal visual experience.

See glow-in-the-dark water

The breathtakingly beautiful and truly magical phenomenon of bioluminescence is one of nature’s greatest wonders, and can only be found in a few places in the world…of which Florida is one! Take a kayak tour on the famous Indian River Lagoon, and discover waters that literally light up with an almost neon glow with every stroke of your paddle.

This remarkable nighttime experience, made even more spectacular by the addition of transparent kayaks, will genuinely leave you breathless. If you go during the winter months, you might even see the mysterious comb jellies glowing their way alongside your boat.

Check out a rocket launch

Florida’s Kennedy Space Centre has been the launchpad for some of the most important and historic space missions in the history of the USA, and the entire world. Visitors have been able to tour the grounds and explore the amazing displays and exhibitions celebrating the remarkable history of space exploration in Florida.

More recently, Elon Musk’s SpaceX program has taken over the launch pads at the Kennedy Space Centre, and the site has been revitalized as an active launch site again. Check out the SpaceX launch schedule, and try to arrange your visit to coincide with liftoff. The experience of watching a rocket blast off into space is unlike anything else.

Dive underground

The natural springs and aquifers of North Florida are not just great places to cool off in the heat of the summer. They also offer the amazing experience of being able to scuba dive underground! Springs like Little River Springs, Blue Hole, and Wes Skiles Peacock Springs offer experienced divers the chance to explore the gorgeous and atmospheric caverns and passages that crisscross Columbia County and the rest of North Florida and feed the natural springs above.

Wes Skiles Peacock Springs is world-famous as one of the best cave diving experiences around, with 33,000 feet of interconnected caverns to explore. Blue Hole is the headspring of Ichetucknee Springs State Park and is a magnificent sight with its deep, dark blue entrance. Little River Springs empties into the Suwannee River, but also offers 1,200 feet of underground passageways to explore, for anyone brave enough to venture inside!

Snorkel in the Caribbean

The Florida Keys is a pretty special part of Florida all by itself, but one spot, in particular, is truly mind-blowing. Dry Tortugas is an astonishing location, flung out into the Caribbean off the coast of Key West. The history of this place is fairly astounding. Discovered in 1513 by Ponce de Leon when there was nothing there but sea turtles, it has been a refueling point for transatlantic shipping, a notable spot for shipwrecks, and a prison.

The main attraction is the splendid old fortress, Fort Jefferson, constructed in 1847 to help counter the threat of piracy in the Caribbean. These days it makes for a splendid snorkeling location, as the fort is abandoned and crumbling, and you can swim right up to the ramparts. The surrounding sea is also full of maritime relics, including 17th-century galleons, rusting cannons, and glistening bottles.

Ride an airboat

Exploring the Everglades is a quintessential Florida experience, and there is no better way to do it than on board an airboat! A Florida icon, airboats can be found the length and breadth of the magnificent Everglades National Park, from Jacksonville on the northern border all the way down to the southern reaches of the state.

Jumping aboard one of these light exciting crafts is an experience in itself, and is definitely the best way to explore the beautiful waterways of the Everglades, and get up close and personal with the unique flora and fauna that are native to them. From giant alligators and swamp snakes to wading birds and snapping turtles, a trip into the mangrove forests of Florida on an airboat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Swim with manatees

These bizarrely beautiful, gentle sea creatures are one of Florida’s most beloved residents. Believed to be the explanation for (presumably short-sighted) sailors’ legends about mermaids, they are incredibly amiable animals, and remarkably tolerant of humans.

While seeing manatees in their natural habitat is a pretty special experience, swimming or snorkeling with them is another level of excitement altogether. There are two locations in North Florida where you can dive into the water with these lovely animals, the Crystal River and Blue Springs State Park. Both locations offer snorkeling tours, and the opportunity is not one to miss out on!

Hit up the theme parks

Very much not under the radar or off the beaten track, but Orlando’s theme parks are still one of the most exciting things you can do in Florida, and one of the state’s most iconic destinations. Visiting Florida and not heading to Orlando, especially if you have kids, would be a shame.

Obviously, the biggest name when it comes to Orlando’s theme parks is Disney World (and it is magnificent, of course), but there are also loads of other options to explore. Fun Spot America is home to the only wooden roller coaster in Florida, while Universal Studios lets you discover the magic of Cinema from behind the scenes.

See the oldest city in the USA

Founded by the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon, St Augustine began life back in the early 1500s, and remains an extraordinarily charming and historic spot, almost unchanged in parts for over 500 years.

St Augustine boasts a wide variety of historic attractions and delightful places to explore, including the most authentic collection of pirate artifacts in the world at the Pirate and Treasure Museum, and the magnificent 1880s Ponce de Leon Hotel, complete with Tiffany stained glass and Edison electricity. But the most atmospheric and exciting thing you can do in this ancient town is to explore the myriad haunted houses that are scattered across the city, including several hotels and B&Bs that you can spend the night in…if you dare!

Come face-to-face with mermaids

If you weren’t convinced by the manatee/mermaid comparison, you might want to check out the real thing instead. Just north of Tampa, one of Florida’s oldest tourist attractions has been delighting visitors with ‘live mermaid shows’ since the 1940s, long before Disney World opened its gates.

Weeki Wachee is the City of Live Mermaids, set in the deepest naturally formed spring in North America, and the shows remain captivating, with live performers swimming and dancing in an amazing underwater theater 20 ft below the surface. This is a real glimpse into the whimsy and charm of Old Florida, and something that you really won’t find anywhere else in the US.

See life on stilts

About a mile off the coast of Biscayne Bay, a tiny, unique community hover above the surface of the water, accessible only by boat. This is Stiltsville, a group of wooden homes on stilts, built in the 1930s as a way to get around the Prohibition Era laws – they originally were places where you could drink, gamble and party free from the landlubbers’ laws.

These days only seven of these almost dream-like structures remain, thanks to accidental fires and Hurricane Andrew in 1992. But visiting this community and getting a feel for life just a few feet above the ocean waves is something quite moving, and well worth experiencing.

Swim in a Listed swimming pool

Modeled on a Venetian grotto, and built with the aim of bringing Mediterranean style to the United States, the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is the kind of destination that is uniquely Floridian, and really expresses the eccentric character of this marvelous part of the world.

The Venetian Pool is the largest freshwater pool in the US, as well as the only swimming pool in the country listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is emptied and refilled daily and is an extraordinarily elegant and stylish, albeit somewhat overblown place to swim. Built out of the remains of an abandoned coral rock quarry, the natural grotto caves offer another exciting element that swimmers can explore.

Sleep with the fish

While there are a few hotels around the world that offer ‘underwater views’, with windows or glass floor panels that take you beneath the ocean waves, none of them are quite as comprehensive an experience as the Jules Undersea Lodge in Key Largo.

Appropriately named after Jules Verne, you have to literally put on a scuba suit to get to your bedroom, situated two fathoms down on the ocean floor! While the ambiance is more ‘upmarket submarine berth’ than ‘luxury hotel’, the serenity and isolation of this unusual hotel room is just the ticket to escape the stresses and strains of everyday life and offers a genuinely one-of-a-kind experience for adventurous travelers willing to take the plunge.

Discover the Fountain of Youth

While St Augustine might be the oldest city in the USA, it is also (possibly) the location of the most youthful experience in the entire world, the literal Fountain of Youth! Ok, this may be an unverifiable claim, but it was supposedly what Juan Ponce de Leon was searching for when he founded the city back in 1513.

Today, you can visit the 15-acre Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, on the site where the Spanish explorer first landed, founded back in 1904. While the artifacts and archaeological discoveries here might be a little suspect (the well that is supposedly the Fountain of Youth is housed in what looks suspiciously like a salt cellar), the park is a charming and enjoyable tribute to the origins of the city.

As vacation destinations go, you will struggle to find anywhere as weird and wonderful as Florida. The Sunshine State really does have it all, from polished theme parks and gorgeous golden beaches to bizarre roadside attractions and unique cultural curiosities. Wherever you choose to go across the length and breadth of Florida, you are guaranteed to find something that couldn’t possibly exist anywhere else in the world. Happy travels!

exterior of Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

Discover the Art and Culture of Columbia County, Florida

Written by Greg Insco on August 16, 2022. Posted in Activities and Attractions, Culture and History, Shopping, Things to Do. No Comments on Discover the Art and Culture of Columbia County, Florida

Beating the heat doesn’t always mean taking a dip in the pool. During the summer months in Florida, Columbia County’s museums and cultural centers become hot spots (no pun intended) for locals and visitors to cool off and take in a history lesson. These cultural and interpretive centers provide great outlets to learn about the area. Get ready to get a dose of Old Florida, here is your art and culture guide to Columbia County.

Ichetucknee Springs Education and Exhibit Center

Located in Fort White, Ichetucknee Springs State Park attracts visitors for its crystal-clear river, towering trees and a wealth of wildlife like deer, wild turkeys and raccoons. After hiking or canoeing the area, stop in at the park’s Education and Exhibit Center, where an impressive display of pieces found in the springs shows the biology of urban growth, water usage and the impact they make on the river. There, you can walk through a replica of a spring cave to understand the biology of how the water flows and forms underground caverns. Rocks and fossils unearthed by cave divers are part of the interpretive exhibit, and before wrapping up the day, you are advised to visit the movie theater to watch a film about the mysteries of the spring.

Columbia County Historical Museum

Get a glimpse of what life and the area looked like in the 1870s at Columbia County Historical Museum. Located in Lake City, this museum has a pristine collection of artifacts, and the staff will also dress up in period attire to breathe life into a house built in the 1800s. The house was previously owned by the Vinzant family, and much of the original furnishings are still in immaculate condition for you to admire. Guided tours are available at the museum, but it’s suggested to make the appointment in advance instead of walking in so the tour will be ready for you when you arrive. During the tour, a guide will walk you through different rooms to see the genealogical research display and rare heirloom pieces left behind by the family. In addition to the family heirlooms, you’ll browse through various artifacts from Native Americans, Civil War, WWI, WWII, and early residents of Columbia County. Monitor the museum’s website to catch any upcoming scheduled events such as making candles and sewing garments.

Olustee Depot

Visit a train station turned into a museum at Olustee Depot near Lake City. The building has stayed in pristine condition and is nestled in the woods under Spanish moss trees in the Osceola National Forest. This museum has all things locomotive that the kids will love and has hands-on activity stations where you can press buttons to hear the sounds of the county’s wilderness. The exhibit tells the tale of the building’s history serving as a medical station for wounded soldiers during the Battle of Olustee. Before that, the station was an iconic destination in the South that exported goods and helped boost the economy. Afterward, lounge on its patio next to the train tracks and wait for the train to pull up.

O’Leno State Park Interpretive Exhibits

O’Leno State Park is another fantastic destination to get your nature fix. But did you know you could visit its three interpretive exhibits, including a nature center, Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and Bellamy Road Interpretive Panels while exploring the park? If you’re an animal lover, you’ll especially love the nature center as it’s filled with native animals of the park, including tortoises, deer and other year-round residents. The center has a built-in sanctuary to rehabilitate rescued animals before they are released back into the park. Civilian Conservation Corps is a work relief movement developed by late, former President Franklin D. Roosevelt, where inexperienced workers earned a living during the Great Depression. The entire Civilian Conservation Corps Museum will educate you and your group about the impact the movement made for families struggling during this era. Bellamy Road has its own center that highlights the road’s history as the first major highway in Florida, which was built by slaves.

Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center

Stephen Foster is a well-known Pennsylvania lyricist who wrote many old hits like “Old Folks at Home.” At Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center, the museum features the composer, crediting him for making the Suwannee River famous with a chronological display of his accomplishments in music. In addition, the Antebellum building houses dioramas depicting some of Foster’s most well-known songs. The park is also home to one of the largest musical instruments in the western hemisphere, the Carillon Tower, with 97 tubular bells. The park also offers demonstrations of quilting and a variety of seasonal crafts, hiking and biking trails, paddling and even camping. Plan to stay awhile by booking a campsite or one of the park’s five riverside vacation cabins and make your stay in Old Florida a grand experience.

Please note: This story has been updated to reflect most current information as of October 2022.