Though Florida may be better known for its many beaches, these photos of our gorgeous lakes are sure to win over a few visitors looking for an escape from the daily grind. Lakes in Florida are known for their wildlife diversity and ecosystems. These lakes are downright mystifying—and you need to experience them for yourself.

Here are 12 beautiful Florida lakes with a magical aura about them:

1. Lake Eustis
Eustis, FL, USA
Flickr/Darlene
This 7,000-acre lake in Central Florida is in the Harris Chain of Lakes. Popular activities on Lake Eustis include fishing and sailing. Head to central Florida to experience the amazing plethora of wildlife and nature you can only find here.
2. Lake Harris
Lake Harris, Florida, USA
Flickr/Rich Renomeron
Lake Harris is the largest lake in Lake County, at nearly 14,000 acres. It's a peaceful place to getaway from it all and bask in Florida nature. With bass and bluegill fishing, it's no wonder why this lake is a fisherman's dream. Unwilling to secure your own catch? Then head to this hideaway restaurant for the best seafood near the lake!
3. Lake Tarpon
Lake Tarpon, Florida, USA
Flickr/Tom Gill
This freshwater lake is located about 10 miles west of Tampa. Although this lovely lake is designated for recreational use, we can't recommend it, as the EPA feels it's currently over polluted. When you're ready to leave the lake, take in the sights of the quaint Florida town of Tarpon Springs for a fun-filled day!
4. Lake Eola
Lake Eola Park, Orlando, FL 32801, USA
Flickr/Monik Markus
This scenic lake in downtown Orlando could easily be called Swan Lake instead. It's downright enchanting and you need to visit if you've never been here. Head to the nearly one-mile walk in Lake Eola Park to see the stunning Orlando skyline and experience the city like never before!
5. Lake Monroe
Lake Monroe, Florida, USA
Flickr/Daniel Piraino
Sanford, DeBary, and Deltona all sit along Lake Monroe, and this incredible photo was taken on its southwestern shore in Sanford. Florida lakes are especially unique, and this one is no different. Enjoy not one, but three public beaches! For a unique experience from the lake, consider hopping on this this amazing old-fashioned paddle boat cruise!
6. Lake Tohopekaliga
Lake Tohopekaliga, Florida, USA
Flickr/Ricardo Mangual
Lake Tohopekaliga is the largest lake in Osceola County and one of the most beautiful lakes in Florida! It's very popular for bass fishing and birdwatching. Lakefront Park offers a miniature lighthouse, a playground, and walking paths to view the waterbirds, turtles, and alligators. Go a step further and plan your excursion on a high-speed airboat! It'll be an experience you won't soon forget.
7. Lake Dora
Lake Dora, Florida, USA
Flickr/Daniel Piraino
There are several tours offered on this beautiful and serene lake in Mount Dora, but you can also just sit by the water and enjoy a spectacular sunset. Come see one of Florida's most majestic lakes and spot the famous 35-foot-tall Mount Dora Lighthouse!
8. Pine Glades Lake
Pine Glades Lake, Florida, USA
Flickr/Joe Parks
You can find this lake off the Long Pine Key Trail in Everglades National Park, but it's also accessible by an unpaved road. It's a great photo opportunity, but as you can see, it's full of gators, so be careful. A great way to get there is by hiking the Long Pine Key Trails, which will lead you to one of the cleanest lakes in Florida.
9. Lake Parker
Lake Parker, Florida 33859, USA
Flickr/Jeremy Taylor
Lake Parker is the largest and one of the most popular lakes in Lakeland, especially for boating and fishing. If fishing isn't your thing, there are parks and a partial path around the lake for a stroll. See the lake for yourself by visiting Lake Parker Park, where you and the entire family can enjoy amenities like playgrounds, ball fields, walking paths, and much more – right on the edge of Lake Parker!
10. Lake Apopka
Lake Apopka, Florida, USA
Flickr/Hector A Parayuelos
Lake Apopka was once one of the most popular attractions in Central Florida. Unfortunately, farm water runoff and later an improper chemical disposal did great damage to the lake that the community has been trying to restore ever since. Take in the sights and sounds of Florida's wildlife not far from Orlando by visiting Lake Apopka today!
11. Blue Lake
Blue Lake, FL 33809, USA
Flickr/Olin Gilbert
This lake in Chipley offers gorgeous fall colors that can be hard to find in Florida. It's a gorgeous oasis just waiting to be explored. Here are ten more gorgeous blue lakes from around the country!
12. Lake George
Lake George, Florida, USA
Flickr/anoldent
Also called Lake Welaka, this lake in Volusia and Putnam county is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and local springs bring in enough salt to allow for extraordinary species like Atlantic stingray and blue crabs. In fact, it has one of the only freshwater blue crab fisheries in the world. The enticing waters will make you want to dip your toes into this lake, but be sure to learn about learn about conditions at the lake.
Florida is known for its plentiful water, and while most seek out the beaches, give these Florida lakes a chance to show you Florida in a new and sunny light!What are your favorite lakes in Florida? Please share comments and photos with us here and on our Facebook page.

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