Why Florida is A Special Place To Vacation
This view of Bradenton Beach comes courtesy of Igor Oliyarnik via Unsplash.
In 2021, nearly 122 million tourists visited Florida. This astounding number is constantly increasing, and it’s not hard to see why the southern tip of the United States is so popular. The Sunshine State is home to 7,700 lakes and 2,000 miles of shoreline. Florida’s waterways are surely the staple attraction, but there are so many other reasons Florida is such a special place to visit.
If you’ve seen our previous story about why Florida is a special place to live, it comes as no surprise that our state is filled with engrossing history, spectacular wildlife, thrilling adventures, and delicious food. Now, here are a few of our favorite spots that will have you planning a visit before you get to the end of the page!
Florida Beaches
Bowman's Beach, Sanibel Island
Looking for the perfect shells to add to your collection? Bowman’s Beach in Sanibel Island is known for having the most unusual, pretty shells in Florida. Part of USA Today’s Best Beaches list, the expansive white sands and turquoise waters are some of the best views you can get in Florida.
Bowman’s beach provides amenities like restrooms, bike racks, playgrounds, picnic tables with charcoal grills, and even a ramp to launch kayaks! So, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the sand, or an adventure out on the water, this beach has got you covered!
Clearwater Beach, Clearwater
Consistently ranked one of the best beaches in Florida, Clearwater Beach stays true to its name. No matter where you are on the beach's 3-mile stretch, the water remains a beautiful blue.
And if you’re looking for some fun after a calm day on the sand, Pier 60 is a 1,800-foot fishing pier and recreational park that provides food and entertainment for all ages.
Florida History
Lightner Museum
Located in historic St. Augustine, the Lightner Museum is a centerpiece of the downtown area. In 1888, the museum was originally known as Hotel Alcazar, but in 1947 Otto Lightner acquired the building in order to display his collection of fine art.
Lightner Museum; Sean Clark | 2021
Beyond the history of the building itself, the museum continues to offer new exhibits alongside its permanent collections like the Louis Comfort Tiffany lamps. Delve into Florida’s rich history by touring the four floors of exhibits at the Lightner Museum
Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse was built in 1887 and had a kerosene lamp so exceptional that it remains on display in a museum to this day! The grounds offer a look into the life of a lighthouse keeper, as well as the history of the area at the time of the lighthouse’s culmination.
As Florida’s tallest lighthouse, take the challenge and climb 175 feet up to the top for an unbeatable view of Daytona Beach.
Florida Wildlife
Three Sisters Springs, Crystal River
In Florida, manatees are important for encouraging plant growth in the waters they call home; important enough to be recognized as the state marine mammal! Three Sisters Spring should be your go-to spot to see these beautiful creatures
The inlet has five natural springs perfect for viewing manatees in their natural habitat. The best time to see the manatees is anytime between November 15th and March 31st, but the springs themselves stay beautiful year-round. Tours are available by boardwalk or trolley.
Loggerhead MarineLife Center
Did you know Florida’s Atlantic coast is the world’s largest nesting ground for loggerhead turtles? With a hatchling release program, the Loggerhead MarineLife Center in Juno Beach is one of the best places to see baby loggerheads make their journey into the sea!
The center provides a multitude of opportunities to learn, experience, and enjoy sea turtle nesting grounds. They are one of Florida’s most visited scientific destinations, so you won’t want to miss out on this unique opportunity.
Florida Adventures
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Mermaids steal the show at Weeki Wachee Springs; Brendan Fitterer via Tampa Bay Times.
As one of the naturally deepest formed underwater caverns in the U.S., Weeki Wachee Springs provides adventures for all ages! Their river boat cruise and paddling adventures are unforgettable, but their iconic mermaid show is the main attraction.
The iconic mermaids perform in pure aquamarine water that flows from a first-magnitude spring!
Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West
Dry Tortugas National Park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, but don’t let that deter you from experiencing this once in a lifetime experience. The scenic blue waters contain an abundance of coral reefs and wildlife perfect for swimmers, snorkelers, and divers alike!
On land, explore the magnificent Fort Jefferson, one of the largest 19th century forts in the United States.
Florida Food
Cafe Karibo
Nestled in the heart of downtown Amelia Island, Cafe Karibo is a beloved community staple that blends traditional Florida cooking with a flair for new American fusion. You’ll be dreaming about their dinner menu featuring Shrimp and Grits and Filet Mignon, but the weekly Sunday Brunch is worth the trip—no matter where you call home.
Timoti’s Seafood Shak
Timoti’s Seafood Shak
More than 84 percent of the nation’s supply of seafood like grouper, pompano, mullet, and stone crab comes from fishermen in Florida. Seafood is consistently a staple dish in Florida, but the best way to enjoy it is by knowing it was caught sustainably!
Timoti’s Seafood Shak uses sustainable, wild-caught seafood to curate menu items like shrimp tacos and lobster rolls!