When they think about taking a vacation to Florida, many people envision touring popular holiday destinations like Miami Beach or Orlando. Yet the scenic Sunshine State also boasts numerous interesting smaller towns. Spend some time visiting some of these friendly places:
Mount Dora
Historic Mount Dora transports visitors back to the quiet Florida of yesteryear. It boasts many tourist attractions, including charming cafés and a lighthouse.
Sanibel Island
This lovely island voted to limit development years ago. It offers awesome sandy beaches, replete with lush scenery and some 250 different sea shells!
Tarpon Springs
Greek immigrants settled in this small Gulf Coast community. Tarpon Springs boasts art galleries, antique stores, specialty shops, and sponge docks.
Amelia Island
Near Jacksonville, this striking island maintains a sea turtle nursery. A nearby fortress draws Civil War buffs.
St. George Island
Explore an island supplying 28 miles of pristine beaches
Destin
Superb sandy beach, boardwalks, and fine restaurants contribute to Destin's charm.
Delray Beach
This busy seaside location attracts tourists internationally. Its beaches appeal to thousands of college students during Spring Break. Restaurants, gardens, and the nearby Wakodahatchee Wetlands delight visitors.
St. Augustine
More of a city than a small town, dynamic St. Augustine makes this list due to its cultural significance. The first settlement founded by the Spanish in North America in 1565, it fascinates history buffs. Visit the Castillo de San Marco, the city gate, and other historic structures.
Grayton Beach
This community adjoins spectacular beaches. It sits along the Florida Panhandle, not far from Destin.
Fort Myers
Explore fascinating historic landmarks in this community. It still maintains homes owned by industrialist Henry Ford and scientist Thomas Edison.
Santa Rosa Beach
Situated in Florida's lovely Panhandle, Santa Rosa Beach offers miles of fine white sand. Point Washington State Forest stands nearby.
Venice
Venice sits along Florida's Gulf Coast. It features two popular beaches: Venice Beach and Caspersen Beach. The latter attracts people who enjoy beach combing for shark's teeth (a rare prize).
Clearwater Beach
This city features numerous activities. Parasail, jet ski, or catch a cruise!
