Now, I know what you might be thinking – Florida’s just a bunch of theme parks and retirement communities, right?
Well, think again.
From the moment you set foot in one of these breathtaking natural wonders, you’ll realize just how much more there is to the Sunshine State than Mickey Mouse and shuffleboard.
Picture this: you’re hiking through the lush, subtropical wilderness of Big Cypress National Preserve, your heart pounding as you scan the dense foliage for a glimpse of the elusive Florida panther.
Or maybe you’re snorkeling the crystal-clear waters of Biscayne National Park, marveling at the vibrant coral reefs and playful sea turtles that call this underwater paradise home.
1. Everglades National Park
- Location: South Florida
Everglades National Park, located in South Florida, is a unique and vital ecosystem that is home to an incredible array of plant and animal life. As the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, the Everglades offers visitors the chance to explore a vast expanse of wetlands, prairies, and forests that are unlike anything else in the world.
One of the best ways to experience the Everglades is by taking an airboat tour, which allows you to glide over the shallow waters and see the park’s diverse wildlife up close. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, manatees, and countless species of birds, including the iconic Roseate Spoonbill.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the Everglades has plenty of hiking trails that wind through the park’s various habitats. The Anhinga Trail is a popular choice, offering a short and easy walk through a sawgrass marsh where you can spot alligators, turtles, and wading birds.
My take: The Everglades is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers a glimpse into a fascinating and fragile ecosystem. Whether you’re a nature lover, a birdwatcher, or just looking for a unique adventure, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Recommended for: Anyone who wants to experience the wild beauty of South Florida and learn about the importance of preserving our natural resources. The Everglades is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
2. Dry Tortugas National Park
- Location: Bush Key, Florida
Located 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote and picturesque park that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. The park is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortress that was once used as a prison during the Civil War.
Visitors to the park can explore the fort and learn about its fascinating history, including its role in the imprisonment of Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was convicted of conspiring in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.
In addition to the historical significance of the fort, the park is also home to some of the most beautiful and pristine coral reefs in the world. Visitors can snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters and see a wide variety of colorful fish and other marine life.
My take: Dry Tortugas National Park is a unique and unforgettable destination that combines history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and experience the raw beauty of the Florida Keys.
Recommended for: Adventurous travelers who don’t mind a bit of a journey to get to their destination. The park is a great place for snorkeling, diving, and exploring, but it’s not for everyone due to its remote location and limited amenities.
3. Biscayne National Park
- Location: Elliott Key, Florida
Located just south of Miami, Biscayne National Park is a unique and beautiful park that is 95% underwater. The park is home to the northernmost Florida Keys, a chain of islands that stretch from Miami to Key West, as well as the world’s third-largest coral reef.
The best way to explore Biscayne National Park is by boat. Visitors can take a guided boat tour or rent their own boat to explore the park’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities, as the park is home to a wide variety of colorful fish and other marine life.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the park offers several hiking trails on Elliott Key, the largest island in the park. The trails wind through a tropical hardwood hammock and offer stunning views of the surrounding waters.
My take: Biscayne National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to experience the beauty of the Florida Keys. Whether you’re a snorkeler, a boater, or just a beach lover, this park has something to offer.
Recommended for: Water enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of Miami for a day or two. Biscayne National Park is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
National Monuments, Preserves, Seashores and Memorials
Canaveral National Seashore
- Location: Titusville, Florida
Canaveral National Seashore is a pristine stretch of undeveloped beach that runs for 24 miles along the Atlantic coast of Florida. The park is a haven for wildlife, including sea turtles, manatees, and over 300 species of birds.
One of the best ways to experience Canaveral National Seashore is by taking a long walk along the beach. The park’s uncrowded and unspoiled shoreline is the perfect place to relax, swim, and soak up the Florida sun. Visitors can also fish from the beach or take a guided kayak tour through the park’s shallow waters.
For those who want to learn more about the park’s history and ecology, the Apollo Beach Visitor Center offers exhibits and educational programs. The park is also home to several historic sites, including the Eldora House, a restored 19th-century home that offers a glimpse into the area’s past.
My take: Canaveral National Seashore is a hidden gem that offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of Florida’s Atlantic coast without the crowds and commercialization of other beaches. It’s a great place to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
Recommended for: Beach lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Canaveral National Seashore is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers who are looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating getaway.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
- Location: St. Augustine, Florida
Step back in time and explore the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Built by the Spanish in the late 17th century, this impressive structure has withstood numerous sieges and battles over the centuries and remains an iconic symbol of St. Augustine’s rich history.
Visitors to the fort can take a self-guided tour of the grounds and explore the various rooms and exhibits that showcase the life of a Spanish soldier in the 17th century. Park rangers also offer guided tours and demonstrations throughout the day, including cannon firings and weaponry displays.
In addition to the fort itself, the surrounding area is home to several other historic sites and museums, including the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum and the Colonial Quarter, which offers a glimpse into life in the city during the 18th century.
My take: Castillo de San Marcos is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history or military architecture. The fort is an impressive example of Spanish colonial engineering and offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of European settlement in Florida.
Recommended for: History buffs, families with children, and anyone who wants to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of St. Augustine. The fort is easily accessible and offers plenty of opportunities for education and exploration.
De Soto National Memorial
- Location: Bradenton, Florida
De Soto National Memorial commemorates the landing of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto on the shores of Tampa Bay in 1539. The memorial includes a visitor center with exhibits on de Soto’s expedition, a nature trail, and a living history camp where visitors can interact with reenactors portraying members of the expedition.
The memorial’s nature trail winds through a mangrove forest and offers stunning views of the Manatee River. Visitors can also take a guided kayak tour of the surrounding waters and learn about the area’s unique ecosystem.
In addition to the natural beauty of the area, the memorial also offers a glimpse into the complex history of Spanish exploration in the Americas. The exhibits in the visitor center provide context for de Soto’s journey and the impact it had on the native peoples of the region.
My take: De Soto National Memorial is a fascinating destination that combines natural beauty with historical significance. It’s a great place to learn about the early days of European exploration in the Americas while also enjoying the outdoors.
Recommended for: History enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of the Gulf Coast region. The memorial is a great destination for families with children who want to learn about the past in an interactive and engaging way.
Fort Matanzas National Monument
- Location: St. Augustine, Florida
Step back in time at Fort Matanzas National Monument, a historic site that played a crucial role in the defense of Spanish Florida during the 18th century. Located just south of St. Augustine, this small but mighty fort was built to protect the city from British invasions and pirate attacks.
Visitors to Fort Matanzas can take a short ferry ride to the island where the fort is located and explore the well-preserved structure up close. Park rangers offer guided tours that provide insight into the fort’s history and the daily lives of the soldiers who once lived there.
In addition to the fort itself, the surrounding area is home to a beautiful stretch of unspoiled coastline and a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and over 200 species of birds. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the nature trails or relax on the pristine beach.
My take: Fort Matanzas may be small in size, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into Florida’s rich history and natural beauty. It’s a great stop for anyone visiting the St. Augustine area who wants to combine a bit of education with their beach vacation.
Recommended for: History buffs, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the water. Fort Matanzas is a great destination for families with children who are interested in learning about the past.
Big Cypress National Preserve
- Location: Ochopee, Florida
Big Cypress National Preserve is a vast expanse of swamps, prairies, and forests that covers over 720,000 acres in South Florida. Unlike the nearby Everglades, Big Cypress is not a true national park, but rather a preserve that allows for a wider range of recreational activities, including hunting and off-road vehicle use.
Despite these differences, Big Cypress is home to an equally diverse array of plant and animal life, including the elusive Florida panther, the American alligator, and the ghost orchid, a rare and beautiful flower that blooms in the summer months.
One of the best ways to explore Big Cypress is by taking a scenic drive along the Tamiami Trail, which runs through the heart of the preserve and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the views. Visitors can also take a guided swamp walk or a canoe trip through the mangrove tunnels and cypress strands.
For those who want to spend the night in the preserve, Big Cypress offers several campgrounds and backcountry camping sites. There’s nothing quite like falling asleep to the sounds of the swamp and waking up to the sight of a misty sunrise over the sawgrass.
My take: Big Cypress is a hidden gem that offers a unique and immersive experience for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you’re a hiker, a birdwatcher, or a photographer, this preserve has something to offer.
Recommended for: Adventurous travelers who want to get off the beaten path and explore a wild and untamed landscape. Big Cypress is a great destination for couples and solo travelers who are looking for a peaceful and secluded getaway.
Fort Caroline National Memorial
- Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Fort Caroline National Memorial commemorates the short-lived French settlement of La Caroline, which was established on the banks of the St. Johns River in 1564. The settlement was later destroyed by the Spanish, who established their own fort on the site.
Today, visitors to the memorial can learn about the history of the French settlement and its impact on the region through exhibits and artifacts in the visitor center. The memorial also includes a nature trail that winds through a beautiful hardwood forest and offers views of the St. Johns River.
My take: Fort Caroline National Memorial is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the early days of European colonization in North America. It’s a great place to learn about the complex history of the region and enjoy the natural beauty of the St. Johns River.
Recommended for: History buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Northeast Florida. The memorial is a great destination for families with children who want to learn about the past in a hands-on and engaging way.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Location: Pensacola, Florida
Gulf Islands National Seashore is a stunning stretch of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters that spans 160 miles along the Gulf Coast of Florida and Mississippi. The Florida portion of the seashore includes several barrier islands, including Perdido Key and Santa Rosa Island.
Visitors to the seashore can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and birdwatching. The seashore is also home to several historic sites, including Fort Pickens, a 19th-century fortress that played a key role in the Civil War.
In addition to its historical significance, the seashore is also a haven for wildlife, including several species of sea turtles, shorebirds, and dolphins. Visitors can take a guided nature walk or boat tour to learn more about the area’s unique ecosystem.
My take: Gulf Islands National Seashore is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the beach and wants to experience the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and fascinating history, it’s a great place to relax, explore, and learn.
Recommended for: Beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The seashore is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.