12 BEAUTIFUL Spots in Florida You Need to See (Insta Locations)

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Let me tell you something about Florida that most people don’t realize—it’s so much more than just theme parks and beaches! I was honestly stunned when I stood on the boardwalk at Blue Spring State Park watching manatees glide through crystal-clear water. And don’t even get me started on kayaking through the glowing waters of the Indian River at night—it felt like floating through stars.

From dense mangrove tunnels to spring-fed rivers, the most beautiful places in Florida pack some serious wow factor. After exploring this state from top to bottom, I’ve put together my favorite spots that’ll make you see the Sunshine State in a whole new light. Here are 12 places that surprised even this seasoned traveler.

Best Places to Visit in Florida

Looking for the coolest things to do in Florida? Relax on the stunning shores of Anna Maria Island, explore the underwater wonders of Biscayne National Park, marvel at the unique limestone formations at Blowing Rocks Preserve, and witness the incredible manatees at Blue Spring State Park. Whether you’re interested in nature, adventure, or relaxation, here are the top attractions to visit in Florida.

1. Anna Maria Island

• 📍 Location: Gulf Coast of Florida, 45 minutes west of Sarasota, accessible via Manatee Avenue Bridge
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, pescatarians 🐟, sunset chasers 🌅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Lounging on powder-soft beaches, fishing from the iconic pier, trolley hopping around town
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October-April for perfect weather and fewer crowds, May-September for warm waters but humid conditions 🌴
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Tortuga Inn Beach Resort – Charming beachfront resort with Old Florida charm

Powdery white sand squeaks beneath your feet at Anna Maria Island, where time seems to move slower. This 7-mile barrier island off Florida’s western coast maintains its vintage charm through preserved beach cottages and local seafood shacks.

Three distinct towns make up the island: Anna Maria features the historic City Pier on the north end, Holmes Beach offers the most dining options in the middle, and Bradenton Beach provides easy access to Coquina Beach on the south.

The free island trolley eliminates driving hassles while stopping at major beaches and attractions. Bean Point has spectacular sunrise views, while dolphin tours let you explore crystal-clear Gulf waters. I always recommend renting a beach cruiser to discover quiet streets lined with tropical landscaping.

2. Biscayne National Park

• 📍 Location: Southeastern Florida, just south of Miami, accessible via Convoy Point Visitor Center in Homestead
• 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🤿, divers 🏊‍♀️, marine life enthusiasts 🐢
• 📸 Top Experiences: Glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling the coral reef, kayaking through mangrove creeks
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November-April for calm seas and clear visibility, June-August for warm waters but hurricane season ⛈️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Biscayne Bay Beach Club – Waterfront resort with easy park access

Ninety-five percent underwater, Biscayne National Park protects one of the largest coral reef systems in the continental United States. Located just south of Miami, this aquatic wonderland includes crystal-clear bay waters, vibrant reefs, and subtropical keys.

Reef Pines Key and Pumpkin Key offer prime snorkeling spots teeming with colorful tropical fish and sea turtles. Glass-bottom boat tours provide underwater views for non-swimmers. Boca Chita Key features excellent beaches and a historic lighthouse with panoramic views.

Mangrove creeks create peaceful kayaking adventures through vital nurseries where baby fish and manatees thrive. Experienced divers can explore the underwater shipwreck trail featuring vessels now transformed into artificial reefs.

3. Blowing Rocks Preserve

• 📍 Location: Jupiter Island, Martin County, Florida, 15 minutes north of Jupiter along Highway A1A
• 🏆 Best For: Nature photographers 📸, wave watchers 🌊, rare plant enthusiasts 🌺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching water geysers shoot through limestone, hiking coastal trails, spotting endangered plants
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November-March for the most dramatic wave action, April-October for calmer waters and sea turtle nesting season 🐢
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa – Luxury oceanfront resort just south of the preserve

Water rockets 50 feet into the air when waves crash against ancient limestone cliffs at Blowing Rocks Preserve. This 73-acre Nature Conservancy site protects one of Florida’s rare rocky shores where natural blowholes create spectacular displays.

The Coastal Trail leads visitors along these dramatic formations, with tide pools revealing marine life during calmer periods. Beyond the rocks, endangered coastal vegetation includes rare plants found nowhere else in the state.

The Indian River Lagoon Trail meanders inland through maritime hammock where gopher tortoises and butterflies thrive. Sturdy shoes are essential since limestone can be sharp and slippery. Early morning or sunset visits offer the most magical lighting for photography.

4. Blue Spring State Park

• 📍 Location: Orange City, Florida, 30 minutes northwest of DeLand on the St. Johns River
• 🏆 Best For: Manatee watchers 🦭, scuba divers 🤿, spring swimmers 🏊‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the 72°F spring, snorkeling with manatees, hiking riverside trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November-March for peak manatee season, April-October for swimming without crowds 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Blue Spring State Park Campground – Peaceful riverside camping sites with full hookups

Hundreds of manatees seek winter refuge in Blue Spring State Park, drawn by waters maintaining a constant 72°F. This 2,600-acre park on the St. Johns River combines outstanding wildlife viewing with Florida’s best freshwater swimming.

The springhead pumps 104 million gallons daily, creating a natural aquarium where massive manatees, schools of fish, and river otters thrive. During manatee season, swimming restrictions protect the animals while observation areas provide excellent viewing.

Warmer months open the spring for swimming and snorkeling in designated areas. Over 4 miles of hiking trails wind through hardwood hammocks, while a 2.5-mile canoe trail explores cypress swamps. The historic Thursby House offers glimpses into early Florida pioneer life.

• Read Next: Free Attractions to See in Florida

5. Boneyard Beach

• 📍 Location: Bulls Island, Capers Inlet, South Carolina, accessible only by ferry from Moore’s Landing
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, beachcombers 🐚, ghost hunters 👻
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the driftwood forest, ferry ride adventure, bird watching at sunrise
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-October for ferry operation, early morning or late afternoon for dramatic lighting 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa – A Four Diamond oceanfront retreat offering 3.5 miles of private beach, championship golf courses, a full-service spa, and diverse dining options

Thousands of bleached tree skeletons create an otherworldly forest at Boneyard Beach on Bulls Island. Centuries of coastal erosion slowly washed away maritime forest, leaving behind these haunting remains.

Reaching this remote beach requires a 30-minute Coastal Expeditions ferry ride from Moore’s Landing (April through October). Dolphins, pelicans, and seabirds often accompany the journey across Charleston Harbor to this section of Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.

The Boneyard Beach Trail leads through this natural sculpture garden where weathered wood contrasts beautifully with white sand and blue water. No facilities exist on the island, so bring water and sun protection. Some visitors report eerie feelings among the skeletal trees, adding to this mysterious destination’s reputation.

6. Crystal River

• 📍 Location: Citrus County, Florida, 70 miles north of Tampa along the Gulf Coast
• 🏆 Best For: Manatee encounters 🦭, kayakers 🛶, nature explorers 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming with manatees, kayaking spring-fed waterways, glass-bottom boat tours
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November-March for prime manatee season, April-June for fewer crowds but active wildlife 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Crystal Springs Inn – Historic riverfront inn with manatee viewing deck

Only one place in America allows legal swimming with wild manatees: Crystal River. This spring-fed river system maintains 74°F waters year-round, creating perfect winter refuge for these gentle giants.

Kings Bay anchors manatee activity, where Three Sisters Springs and Hunter Springs serve as natural warm-water sanctuaries. Numerous outfitters offer snorkel tours following strict wildlife guidelines, allowing observation while maintaining proper distance.

Beyond manatees, crystal-clear springs and lush wetlands provide world-class kayaking opportunities. Homosassa Springs and Rainbow River create popular paddling routes where birds, alligators, and otters frequently appear. Crystal River Archaeological State Park features ancient Native American shell mounds offering elevated views of the surrounding landscape.

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7. Dry Tortugas National Park

• 📍 Location: 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, accessible only by ferry or seaplane
• 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🤿, marine enthusiasts 🐠, history buffs 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Fort Jefferson, snorkeling crystal-clear waters, spotting sea turtles and tropical fish
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October-March for best weather, April-September for lower crowds (but hotter temps) 🌴
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Parrot Key Hotel & Villas – A tranquil waterfront retreat offering spacious rooms, suites, and villas amidst lush tropical gardens, complete with four pools, on-site dining, and complimentary shuttle service to Smathers Beach and Duval Street

Picture this: A massive 19th-century fortress sitting on a tiny island 70 miles from nowhere. That’s Dry Tortugas National Park, where crystal-clear water surrounds seven remote islands in the Gulf of Mexico.

Fort Jefferson dominates Garden Key with its six-sided brick design and Civil War history. You can explore its prison cells and climb the walls for stunning water views. The self-guided tour takes 45 minutes.

Underwater adventures await after your historical tour. The surrounding waters offer some of Florida’s best snorkeling with 100-foot visibility. Tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral make the Garden Key moat an underwater paradise. Just remember to pack everything you need since no services exist on the islands.

8. Falling Waters State Park

• 📍 Location: Near Chipley in the Florida Panhandle, 1 hour north of Panama City
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, waterfall chasers 💦, botanists 🌸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the 73-foot waterfall, exploring the sinkhole, wildflower photography
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April for best water flow, spring (March-May) for wildflowers 🌺
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Falling Waters State Park – Home to Florida’s tallest waterfall, a 73-foot cascade into a 100-foot-deep sinkhole, surrounded by lush forests, fern-covered trails, and historic sites

Florida has a waterfall that plunges into a bottomless pit. At Falling Waters State Park, you’ll witness Falling Waters Creek cascading 73 feet into a mysterious sinkhole that has never been fully explored.

The Sinkhole Trail leads 0.6 miles through forest to this natural wonder. Here, the waterfall creates a misty microclimate supporting rare Florida yew trees and vibrant wildflowers. Winter months bring the strongest water flow and occasionally create ice formations.

Beyond the main attraction, multiple sinkholes dot the landscape. The Chipola River Trail offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. I’ve spotted white-tailed deer and wild turkeys along this pleasant path through rolling hills.

9. Grayton Beach State Park

• 📍 Location: Along Scenic Highway 30A, between Destin and Panama City Beach in the Panhandle
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, hikers 🥾, wildlife watchers 🦅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on pristine white sand beaches, hiking the dune lake trail, exploring Western Lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-May and September-October for great weather and fewer crowds 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse – A charming, family-owned bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of Grayton Beach, offering 12 uniquely styled rooms with vintage 1950s Old Florida flair

White sand so fine it feels like powder between your toes awaits at Grayton Beach State Park. Dr. Beach consistently ranks this quarter-mile stretch among America’s best beaches, and one look explains why.

The sugar-white beach features shallow, clear water perfect for families. But venture beyond the shoreline to discover the Grayton Dune Nature Trail. This path winds through rare coastal dune lakes, ancient sand dunes, and pine-oak forests.

Western Lake offers a unique experience where freshwater meets the Gulf. You can kayak its calm waters or watch for alligators from the boardwalk. The Pine Trail leads deeper into the forest, where wildlife sightings become more common.

10. Morikami Museum and Gardens

• 📍 Location: Delray Beach, 30 minutes north of Fort Lauderdale
• 🏆 Best For: Culture seekers 🎋, garden enthusiasts 🌸, tea ceremony participants 🍵
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling through six distinct Japanese gardens, attending tea ceremonies, exploring cultural exhibits
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October-April for perfect weather, February-March for cherry blossoms 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hilton Boca Raton Suites – A lakeside all-suite hotel offering spacious two-room accommodations, complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, nightly cocktail reception, and a heated outdoor pool. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and attractions

A slice of Japan exists in the heart of South Florida. The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens tells the story of the Yamato Colony, Japanese farmers who tried creating an agricultural utopia here in the early 1900s.

Six distinct gardens span 200 acres, each representing different periods of Japanese design. From the koi-filled Paradise Garden to the serene Modern Romantic Garden, each area flows seamlessly into the next. The Zigzag Bridge and countless stone pathways create perfect meditation spots.

The museum houses rotating exhibitions alongside permanent collections of samurai armor and contemporary art. Weekend tea ceremonies offer authentic Japanese hospitality. The Cornell Café serves Japanese-inspired cuisine that perfectly complements your cultural journey.

11. Naples

• 📍 Location: Southwest Florida, 2 hours south of Tampa and 2 hours west of Miami
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury travelers 💎, art enthusiasts 🎨, nature explorers 🦢
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Everglades, strolling through art galleries, enjoying sunset at Naples Pier
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November-April for perfect weather (peak season), May-October for lower prices 🌴
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Naples – For luxury hotel located in downtown Naples

Sophistication meets wilderness in this Gulf Coast gem. Naples pairs upscale shopping and dining with easy access to raw Everglades beauty, creating an unlikely but perfect combination.

The iconic Naples Pier extends 1,000 feet over the Gulf, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset views. Downtown Fifth Avenue South hosts high-end galleries, boutiques, and restaurants ranging from casual seafood to fine dining. The Naples Art District showcases both local and international artists.

Nature beckons just beyond the city limits. The Everglades can be reached in under an hour, where airboat tours reveal alligators and wading birds. For a more refined wilderness experience, explore Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary via its 2.25-mile boardwalk through ancient cypress forest.

12. Sanibel Island

• 📍 Location: Southwest Florida coast, connected to Fort Myers by a 3-mile causeway
• 🏆 Best For: Shell collectors 🐚, kayakers 🛶, wildlife photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hunting for shells at sunrise, kayaking through mangrove tunnels, visiting the lighthouse
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April for prime shelling season, May-November for fewer crowds 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sundial Beach Resort – For all-inclusive convenience, or rent a beachfront cottage

America’s shelling capital owes its fame to unique geography. Sanibel Island sits east-west rather than north-south, creating perfect conditions for shells to wash ashore in abundance.

The famous “Sanibel Stoop” occurs as collectors search for treasures at Bowman’s Beach and Blind Pass. Low tide after storms offers the best hunting for rare finds like junonia and lion’s paw shells. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum provides context for your discoveries.

Beyond shelling, Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge offers incredible kayaking through mangrove tunnels. Dolphins, manatees, and countless bird species call these waters home. The refuge’s Wildlife Drive showcases roseate spoonbills and white pelicans. I once spotted a Florida panther here during an early morning drive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Florida

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Florida? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Florida attractions.

Where is the prettiest place to visit in Florida?

Determining the “prettiest” place in Florida can be subjective, as the state offers a diverse range of beautiful landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush gardens. However, many travelers and locals alike often point to Sanibel Island as one of the prettiest places in Florida. Known for its unique seashell-covered beaches and rich biodiversity, the island offers a tranquil escape that’s hard to match. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on the island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, making it a picturesque and educational destination.

What part of Florida is beautiful?

Florida is a state of diverse beauty, so it’s challenging to pinpoint just one area as the most beautiful. The Panhandle boasts stunning white-sand beaches, while the Keys offer a tropical paradise. Central Florida is home to natural springs like Blue Spring State Park, and the Gulf Coast features charming islands like Anna Maria Island. The Everglades provide a unique, wild beauty that’s unlike anything else in the U.S. Each region has its own unique charm and natural attractions, making the entire state a showcase of varied beauty.

What is the most visited place in Florida?

The most visited place in Florida is undoubtedly Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Drawing millions of visitors from around the globe each year, it’s a world-renowned destination for families and individuals alike. With four theme parks, two water parks, and numerous hotels and dining options, it’s a massive entertainment complex that offers something for everyone.

What part of Florida should you visit?

The part of Florida you should visit depends on your interests. If you’re looking for family-friendly entertainment, Orlando’s theme parks are a must. For a laid-back beach vacation, consider the Panhandle or the Gulf Coast islands like Sanibel or Naples. If you’re interested in outdoor activities and wildlife, the Everglades or Biscayne National Park would be ideal. For a mix of urban sophistication and beautiful beaches, Miami and the surrounding areas offer a vibrant cultural scene. Each region offers a unique set of attractions and experiences, so you can choose based on what you’re looking to get out of your trip.

Why is Florida So Popular for Vacation?

Florida is so popular for vacation because of the following: 

1. Climate: Known as the “Sunshine State,” Florida boasts warm weather and sunny skies almost year-round, attracting those looking to escape colder climates.
2. Beaches: With a diverse range of beaches, from tranquil to bustling, Florida offers something for every type of beachgoer. Water activities like kayaking and snorkeling are also readily available.
3. Family Attractions: Home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Florida is a top destination for family vacations.
4. Natural Beauty: Unique ecosystems like the Everglades and numerous state parks draw nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The state is also a hub for eco-tourism.
5. Cultural Diversity: Cities like Miami offer a melting pot of cultures, enriching the vacation experience with diverse cuisine, music, and festivals.

What is Florida Known for Tourism?

Florida is known for the following tourism:

1. Theme Parks: Florida is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, making it a top destination for family vacations.
2. Beaches: The state boasts a wide variety of beaches, from the party atmosphere of Miami Beach to the serene landscapes of the Florida Keys, attracting beach lovers of all types.
3. Outdoor Activities: With its warm climate, Florida is a haven for outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, boating, and water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
4. Natural Attractions: Unique natural wonders like the Everglades, Dry Tortugas National Park, and springs like Ichetucknee offer ecotourism experiences and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
5. Cultural Experiences: Florida’s diverse population contributes to a rich cultural scene, evident in the food, music, and festivals, especially in cities like Miami and Orlando.
6. Historical Sites: The state is steeped in history, with attractions like St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., and the historic districts in Key West.
7. Luxury Resorts: Florida is known for its high-end resorts and spas, offering luxurious accommodations and amenities.
8. Cruise Ports: Major cruise ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale serve as gateways to the Caribbean, making Florida a starting point for many cruise vacations.