It’s easy to love Florida when you visit and have the time of your life. But that love is on a completely different level when you live here and are proud of your home state. The pride that Floridians feel isn’t just about the beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. No, there are way more reasons to celebrate the Sunshine State, including these 8 Florida small towns and their specific claims to fame.

1. Stuart, Florida - “Sailfish Capital of the World”

Any avid fisherman knows that Stuart, Florida is the go-to place to snag some sailfish. This nickname for Stuart has been around since the 1950s due to the plentiful amount of sailfish, especially during winter. Due to the Gulf Stream being so close, sailfish frequent the waters outside of Stuart, which is where it earned its claim to fame.

For more information about Stuart, Florida, click here.

2. DeLand, Florida - “Skydiving Capital of the World”

Looking for a little bit of an adrenaline rush? Look no further than the small town of DeLand, Florida. Nicknamed the Skydiving Capital of the World, DeLand is home to the largest group of old and new skydivers, plus facilities to learn about skydiving and actually jump!

For more information about DeLand, Florida, click here.

3. Ocala, Florida - “Horse Capital of the World”

This one might cause lead to an argument, especially from residents of Lexington, Kentucky, but the truth is, Ocala trademarked this phrase first back in 2007. Ocala is home to a wide variety of horses, not just Thoroughbreds, which is why this claim to fame is more deserving. It also has an in-depth involvement in all things equestrian.

For more information about Ocala, Florida, click here.

4. Tarpon Springs, Florida - “Sponge Capital of the World”

You’ll find the quiet seaside town of Tarpon Springs just 20 miles north of Tampa. The reason why this area was nicknamed the Sponge Capital of the World, was due to the fact that the species of sponge that is used commercially can be found right off the shores here.

For more information about Tarpon Springs, Florida, click here.

5. New Smyrna Beach, Florida - “Shark Bite Capital of the World”

Anyone who has visited New Smyrna Beach already knows that this beach is about as beautiful as it gets. Unfortunately, with a high record of shark bites, this is where the nickname came from. However, many of these cases, while leading to high statistics, are only minor injuries.

For more information about New Smyrna Beach, Florida, click here.

6. Venice, Florida - “Shark Tooth Capital of the World”

Visitors to Venice Beach, Florida often go simply to find some of the best shark teeth that wash ashore. The coastal area of this city is on top of a fossil layer that reaches depths of up to 35 feet! When storms hit or strong waves come in, pieces of these fossils break off and wash ashore, which is where people can find them, especially in the early mornings.

For more information about Venice Beach, Florida, click here.

7. Coconut Creek, Florida - “Butterfly Capital of the World”

Did you know that Coconut Creek, Florida is nicknamed the Butterfly Capital of the World? This nickname comes from the fact that this town is home to the largest butterfly park in the world, Butterfly World! Butterfly World opened back in 1988 and now is home to over 20,000 live butterflies.

For more information about Coconut Creek, Florida, click here.

8. Plant City - "Winter Strawberry Capital of the World"

Here’s a fun fact you may not have known - over three-quarters of the country’s supply of winter strawberries come from this small town in Florida. Due to the milder winter weather, the fertile soil, and the subtropical climate, strawberries grow in abundance here every year. There is even an 11-day festival each year celebrating these delicious berries!

For more information about Plant City, Florida, click here.

Do you have more Florida small towns that you think should hold a spot on this list? Make sure to shout them out in the comments section! Or better yet, you can nominate them via our Nomination Page.