8 Florida Treasures That Only Natives Know About

Not really interested in boring tourist attractions? We don’t blame you. Though Florida’s top tourist attractions can be a great experience, as residents of the state their novelty wears off pretty quickly. Sometimes you just want to get to get away from the crowds and witness some of the natural beauty that Florida has to offer – and it has a lot to offer.  Usually, tourist come here for the sunshine and beaches, and you can still go to the beach without having to share it with thousands of other tourists. Here are 8 awesome hidden treasures of Florida.

Florida Caverns State Park

If you’re interested in doing some cave exploring and see what lurks in the dark nooks and crannies of Florida, then you should check out the Caverns State Park in Marianna, Florida. The park has air-filled caves which are open to the public. What is even cooler, is that you can also bike, boat, canoe, kayak or camp at the state park.

Ravine Gardens State Park

Listed as one of the Historic Places of Florida, Ravine Gardens State Park lets you hike through its botanical gardens, ravines, swinging bridges and natural springs. Located in Palatka,  it is truly a hidden gem in Florida where you can spend a lovely day exploring nature.

Caladesi Island

Looking for a beach in Florida which isn’t packed with people is virtually impossible. It IS one of the things Florida is known for after all. However, there are still some places that have remained untouched by the swarms of tourists. Caladesi Island is certainly one of them. Located off of Dunedin, it’s one of the only natural beaches left in Florida.

Swap Shop Flea Market and Drive-In Theatre

Looking to bargain? Then head down to the Swap Shop Flea Market and Drive-in Theatre.  With over 2,000 vendors, the Swap Shop has over 180,000- square feet of restaurants, shopping, and farmer markets. Not only that, it has one of the biggest drive-in movie theaters.  Situated in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll be able to get to experience a real taste of Florida living.

Crystal River State Park

This is possibly the coolest state park you could ever visit. Firstly, the water in Crystal River is well, crystal clear – literally. Secondly, you can legally swim with endangered manatees in their natural habitat. How amazing is that – you have to try it.

 

Fort Walton Beach

If you’re looking for white, clear water and wildlife, then go to Fort Walton Beach.  When we mean wildlife, we mean, you’ll be saying turtles, dolphins and sandpipers. This is wildlife you simply wouldn’t get to experience on a regular tourist-filled beach. You can snorkel, dive, canoe, kayak, and windsurf on this beach. A  beautiful place to go to jump into Florida’s nature.

Bok Tower Gardens

In Lake Wales, there stands a 205-foot tower on a 200-acre garden filled with oaks, jasmine, wetland plants, and pines. Mysterious and elegant in appearance, this is a place you surely have to check out.

Ocala

Like horses? If so, then check out Ocala, the horse capital of the world. The Marion county has more horses and ponies than any other state in the U.S. When visiting, you can ride along the trails, mountain bike, hike or bird watch.

 

Where are your favorite places to visit in Florida? Let us know in the comments