9 Florida Natural Wonders You Need To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List For 2020

It’s never too early to start planning the ultimate bucket list adventure in Florida. Whether it’s this summer or the beginning of autumn, you’ll have a bevy of adventure options to choose from — including waterfalls, natural springs, and more. Living in Florida means you have access to a plethora of outdoor entertainment, many of which are provided by Mother Nature, herself. Check out these nine natural wonders in Florida to check out in 2020.

1. Matheson Hammock Park

This 630-acre urban park in Coral Gables, Florida is a spectacular place to spend an afternoon in the state. The park offers waterfront views, sandy beaches, and palm trees lining the shoreline. Did we mention the spectacular views of the Miami skyline in the distance?

2. Ocala National Forest

As the southernmost forest in the continental United States, the Ocala National Forest is a true gem in Florida. This fascinating park protects the largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest in the entire world. With more than 600 lakes, rivers, and spectacular springs, you’ll be able to swim, dive, and snorkel in these beautiful waters.

3. Gulf Islands National Seashore

Whether you’re watching the migration of monarch butterflies in autumn or a pod of dolphins tearing through the nearby waves, Gulf Island National Seashore offers up a wildlife experience like no other. With the long stretch of shoreline and the stunning bevy of flora and fauna, this is one natural wonder you do not want to miss.

4. Big Talbot Island

In the Timucuan Preserve in Jacksonville, Florida you’ll find Big Talbot Island, which is a beauty unto itself. Visit Boneyard Beach at sunset or sunrise for a dreamy experience along the graveyard of branches. It is as magical as it sounds. Also, make sure to stick around for a beautiful sunset.

5. Three Sisters Springs

Heading on over to the west side of Florida is a crystal clear spring that is unlike anything else in the state. Three Sisters Springs is smack dab on the Crystal River. With warm springs consistently at 72-degrees year-round, you’ll be able to swim, snorkel, paddle, and explore at your leisure. What’s even cooler is that during the winter months you can see thousands of manatees seeking refuge in the warm water.

6. Falling Waters State Park

There aren’t too many waterfalls in Florida to write home about, which is what makes this one in Falling Waters State Park so special. Not only is it spectacularly tall, but it also disappears into the ground and nobody really knows where the water flows to. It’s a natural wonder and a natural mystery.

7. Florida Caverns State Park

If you head west of Tallahassee, about an hour, you’ll come across Florida Caverns State Park. Spend an afternoon wandering these natural caves, admiring the limestone stalactites and stalagmites throughout. Outside of the caves, the park itself is home to a variety of hiking and biking trails, too!

8. Venetian Pool

Right smack dab in the middle of Coral Gables is the largest freshwater pool in the country. The Venetian Pool has more than 800,000 gallons of fresh spring water pumping through each day, and visitors can enjoy swimming in the summer. Opened since 1924, come enjoy the coral rock structures and the warm spring water all summer long.

9. Bowman’s Beach

Spending the afternoon collecting shells along Bowman’s Beach in Sanibel is enough to keep anyone sane. As one of the very best places in Florida to hunt for colorful, unique shells, this beach is not to be missed. Make sure to wake up early and head to the beach to see what washed up during the nighttime. The best part about this beautiful hunt is that you never know what you’ll get!

Have you tackled any of these natural wonders in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or If there are other natural wonders and attractions you want us to know about, make sure to keep us in the loop!