People Live Their Whole Lives in Florida and Somehow Miss These 4 Places

Beaches, natural springs, historic towns, and alligators are a few of the things that make Florida a unique state. Many tourists come just to play in the sand or to visit amusement parks, but locals know there is so much more to do here. Maybe too much, because you can live in the Sunshine State your entire life and still miss out on some of its most incredible places. 

There’s no way to see everything Florida has to offer, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, it’s worth making the effort to explore the lesser-known corners of our beautiful piece of the U.S. Start in these four must-visit places in Florida that still remain hidden gems.

1. Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge

Set along 20.5 miles between Florida’s Treasure Coast and Space Coast, Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge protects various coastal ecosystems. Most importantly, the refuge provides a safe place for thousands of sea turtles that come to lay eggs under its dunes every year. In fact, Archie Carr is one of the most important loggerhead nesting sites in the entire world. If you come during nesting season from May to October, don’t miss out on doing a night tour. Seeing a turtle leaving the water (the only time they’ll ever do so as adults) to lay eggs is one of the most magical experiences I’ve ever had. During the daytime, you can enjoy the long, beautiful beach or do a small hike around the refuge.

2. Defuniak Springs

This tiny town of just under 6,000 people is a dream for anyone who appreciates historic buildings. Centered around one of two natural perfectly circular lakes on the planet, Defuniak Springs is lined with well-kept Victorian houses that make you feel as if you’ve gone through a hole in the time-space continuum. You’ll also find Florida’s oldest continuously operating library, an 1886 gem that holds treasures like a signed first edition copy of Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” a 19th-century Regina music box, and a historic collection of armory. Although travelers often skip Defuniak in favor of nearby seaside towns along the Emerald Coast, this destination has some of the most interesting places in the area. It’s worth visiting, even if only for a day. 

3. Warm Mineral Springs Park

Florida's springs are so numerous that they warrant an epic water-centric road trip. Each spring has its own charm, but the one at Warm Mineral Springs Park in North Port stands out because of its unique temperature. Rather than the cool, refreshing water you can expect at other springs, this one averages 85 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Its warm water is rich in minerals like sulfur and magnesium, which are thought to provide health benefits. A dip in this spring is blissfully relaxing, especially after a day hiking in Myakka State Forest. I also love that the park emphasizes accessibility by providing ramps and handrails so that anyone can go into the water and enjoy its healing properties.

4. Shell Island

Florida has no shortage of beautiful beaches, so when one stands out, you know it's truly special. Shell Island is a seven-mile peninsula right off the coast of Panama City Beach. Because it's still undeveloped, it offers a glimpse of untouched Florida nature. To get here, you can take the seasonal Shell Island Shuttle that does a round trip every half an hour. Alternatively, you can rent a jet ski or a pontoon for more independence. You won’t find stores, beach chairs, or even bathrooms, but you’ll have a pristine shoreline where sea turtles, ghost crabs, birds, and deer roam around unhindered. If you're lucky, you might come face-to-face with the large resident pod of bottlenose dolphins that love hanging out around the barrier island. It truly is an unmissable Florida destination. 

Plan your own trip to Florida's hidden gem spot with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.