22 Gorgeous Florida Destinations to Chase the Sunshine This Winter

Florida is known for its sunny beaches, theme parks, and warm weather all year round. But there’s more to this state than just Disney World and Miami.

Its Gulf Coast’s white sands and turquoise waters stretch from the Panhandle down to the Keys. Towns like St. Augustine bring history to life with centuries-old architecture in contrast to the modernity found in Miami.

All across Florida, you can swim in manatee-laden turquoise springs or canoe through Spanish moss-draped swamps.

Here are 22 of the most beautiful places in Florida that will have you wanting to book your next trip.

1. Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key

Bahia Honda State Park is one of those places that leaves a mark on you. The turquoise waters are so clear you can see your feet, and the beaches? Absolutely pristine. You won’t believe the color of the sand until you see it for yourself.

Snorkelers and kayakers love the marine life that’s easy to spot, and the old railroad bridge makes for a great backdrop. For those who camp, you can fall asleep to the sound of gentle waves. Time slows down here, and it’s easy to get lost in the island’s laid-back feel.

2. Rainbow River, Dunnellon

Tubing down the crystal-clear water of Rainbow River all the rage. Just grab a tube and let the river carry you while you float past fish and turtles swimming below.

Kayaking is another option if you want a little more control over where you’re going. The water is so clear you might feel like you’re floating in the air. The locals know how special it is, so don’t expect to keep it a secret.

3. Devil’s Den, Williston

Devil’s Den is an underground spring hidden in a cave that resembles the cenotes in Mexico’s Yucatan. The place gets its name from the steam that rises from the water, making it look like smoke.

The moment you descend into it, you know it’s something special. The water stays at 72 degrees year-round, and divers and snorkelers find it a cool spot to explore. Even if you’re just a visitor, standing at the entrance and watching the sunlight filter in is something you won’t soon forget.

4. Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West

Dry Tortugas National Park is way out in Key West, with shades of blue you didn’t know existed. Getting to this park is part of the adventure itself, as you can only arrive by boat or seaplane. It’s one of the least visited national parks in the United States.

Once there, the main attraction is Fort Jefferson, a historic coastal fort once used as a prison during the Civil War. Snorkeling around the coral reefs is a must, with colorful fish and marine life everywhere.

Sunsets here are beyond anything you’ll experience on the mainland. On some days, you may even have a patch of beach all to yourself.

5. St. Augustine

The cobblestone streets and Spanish architecture make St. Augustine feel almost European, but it’s still got that Florida coastal vibe.

You can stroll through Castillo de San Marcos in the morning, then hit the beach by noon. The lighthouse is a bit of a climb if you’d like to get to the top.

This city perfectly blends the past and present, with tons of spots to grab a bite or a drink while taking in the scene.

6. Silver Glen Springs, Ocala National Forest

Silver Glen Springs feels like a secret. The water is so transparent that you can see every ripple as it glides over the sandy bottom. The spring run is perfect for kayaking or swimming, and wildlife keeps you company along the way.

You’ll spot ancient trees and signs of earlier civilizations that once called this place home. Take a deep breath and soak in the calmness. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the more crowded Florida attractions.

7. Clearwater Beach, Clearwater

Clearwater Beach is exactly what you think of when you picture a perfect beach. The sand is as soft and white as powdered sugar, and the sunsets are pure gold.

Pier 60 is the place to be for sunset views and street performers. If you’re up for it, you can catch a dolphin tour or rent a jet ski for a thrilling time on the water. There are tons of restaurants and shops along the beach. 

It’s a popular spot, so expect some crowds. 

8. Key West

Key West is at the end of the line, but there’s no other place like it in Florida. Duval Street is the main drag, full of bars, shops, and restaurants. From Hemingway’s home to Duval Street, every corner of the island has its own personality. The sunset gatherings at Mallory Square are famous for a reason, but if you’re looking for something quieter, there are plenty of hidden spots to explore.

The beaches are lovely, but the real charm is in the town itself. Rent a bike and explore all the quirky little spots. The nightlife here is unbeatable.

9. Boneyard Beach, Big Talbot Island

Boneyard Beach stands out with its eerie collection of driftwood scattered along the shore. It’s more of a place to wander rather than swim.

Photographers flock here to capture the twisted, weathered trees that create an almost haunting atmosphere.

The beach is part of a state park, so it’s well-preserved and quiet. You can hike through the trails before hitting the beach. 

10. Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales

Bok Tower Gardens are meticulously maintained and absolutely gorgeous. The Singing Tower is the centerpiece of the gardens, and its beautiful music can be heard throughout the grounds at specific times of the day.

There are walking trails that take you through different types of gardens. The gardens change with the seasons, so there’s always something new to see.

11. Sanibel Island, Sanibel

The beaches of Sanibel Island are known for their unique assortment of seashells that wash up on the shore. You could easily spend hours combing the sands and probably walk away with a handful of stunning finds.

The sunsets here are postcard-worthy, as the island is not overrun with big hotels. The island is also great for biking, with paths that take you all over. 

12. Wakulla Springs, Wakulla County

Wakulla Springs is one of the world’s deepest and largest freshwater springs. The glass-bottom boat tours will give you an unbeatable view. You’ll glide over turtles, fish, and even the occasional manatee or alligator.

The surrounding forest is filled with ancient trees draped in Spanish moss. There are trails and picnic areas if you prefer to stay on land.

13. Okefenokee Swamp, Southern Georgia/North Florida

Okefenokee Swamp is a vast wetland home to all sorts of wildlife, including plenty of gators. Most of it is in the neighboring state of Georgia, with only a small portion extending into Florida.

Canoeing through the swamp’s maze of dark waterways is a surreal experience, with moss-draped trees billowing above and a haunting stillness all around.

It’s not the type of place where you’ll see crowds. There’s something about the Okefenokee that gets under your skin, but you’re still glad you came. Bring bug spray because the mosquitoes are no joke. 

14. Pensacola, Pensacola

The white sand beaches in Pensacola are some of the best you’ll find.

It’s also one of Florida’s oldest settlements, so there’s plenty to explore beyond the shore. Fort Pickens peeks into the area’s military past, and you can learn more about it at the Naval Aviation Museum.

But if you’re just here for the beach vibes, you won’t be disappointed. The Gulf waters are warm, the sunsets are spectacular, and the town has plenty of shops and restaurants.

15. Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria

The beaches on Anna Maria Island are postcard-perfect, with powdery white sand and clear waters. There are no high-rises, and the pace of life is wonderfully slow. You can bike or walk just about anywhere.

There are charming boutiques and eateries all over the island. The island has a small-town vibe that makes you feel like a local, even if you’re just visiting for the day.

16. Manatee Springs, Chiefland

Manatee Springs is a spring that is at a constant 72 degrees, making it the perfect spot for swimming or snorkeling.

However, the real stars of the show are the manatees that visit in the cooler months. Seeing these gentle giants is jaw-dropping. They’re so much bigger than you’d expect.

There’s a boardwalk where you can observe them, where they may come right up to you.

17. Weeki Wachee Springs, Weeki Wachee

The springs of Weeki Wachee itself has crystal-clear waters for swimming, kayaking, or just floating along the lazy river.

However, the real draw to this destination is its live mermaid shows. Weeki Wachee has been staging these underwater performances since the 1940s, and they’re still going strong.

18. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota

This one’s more about culture than nature, but the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is worth a visit if you’re anywhere near Sarasota.

It’s a sprawling estate that includes the Ringling Circus Museum, the art museum, and the stunning Ca’ d’Zan Mansion. The grounds are lush and lovely, mirroring those of the Venetian palaces that inspired them.

There’s also a circus performance and behind-the-scenes tour daily, so you can see what it takes to put on “the greatest show on Earth.”

19. Islamorada, Florida Keys

Islamorada is the place for some chill island life, with tiki bars and live music. It’s a favorite for anglers, known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” but you don’t need to be a fisherman to enjoy it.

The coral reefs here are perfect for snorkeling or diving, and the sunsets are pure magic. The island is full of great little seafood spots, so you’re never far from a fresh catch.

20. Grayton Beach, Santa Rosa Beach

Grayton Beach is the kind of place you almost don’t want to tell anyone about. It’s part of a state park, so the beaches are protected and pristine.

The water is as clear as it gets, and the soft white sand feels like walking on clouds. But what makes this spot even more special are the dune lakes, a rare phenomenon you won’t find in many places around the world.

The town itself is artsy and quirky, with a small-town feel. You can spend the day on the beach, then wander into town for a bite to eat. Grayton Beach is peaceful, beautiful, and just a little off the beaten path.

21. Ginnie Springs, High Springs

The water in Ginnie Springs is so clear that it’s almost hard to believe. The caves are perfect for scuba divers and snorkelers, and the springs maintain a refreshing 72 degrees year-round.

If you’re not into diving, tubing down the Santa Fe River is a fun way to take in the scenery.

It’s a popular spot, especially in the summer, so be ready to share the springs with a crowd.

22. Siesta Key, Sarasota

Siesta Key’s sand is something special. It’s powdery white and so fine it feels like flour under your feet. That alone makes it one of the best beaches in the country.

The shallow waters make it perfect for families, and the sunsets are nothing short of legendary. You can stroll along the shore, grab a drink at a beachside bar, or go beach volleyball and paddleboarding.

The village has a fun, quirky vibe with shops and eateries. There’s always some live music happening.

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