Florida is definitely one of the most unique states in the US, thanks to its location right at the meeting points of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
This incredible position contributes to the state’s humid subtropical climate, making it a stunning natural wonder, boasting wildlife, ecosystems, plants, and attractions that you can only find in Florida. In fact, very few destinations can match the Sunshine State’s natural attractions. Plus, the unique adventures one can engage in are always guaranteed.
From some of the most impressive reefs to scenic freshwater, here are the best natural attractions in Florida that will make you want to experience them ASAP!
1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo
- Entrance fee: $8 per vehicle, $2 for bicyclists, pedestrians, and extra passengers.
- Accessibility: All tour boats are wheelchair-friendly.
Located in the Florida Keys, it’s the US’s first underwater park. Many visitors are enticed by the colorful marine life and magnificent coral reefs. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities in this park, as they provide guests with endless opportunities to enjoy the stunning scenery of Florida’s underwater world.
For those who’d rather stay dry, the reef can also be seen from a glass-bottom boat. Other popular activities that offer you the chance to explore this natural attraction include picnicking, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. Fishing is allowed, but you must ensure you only do it within the designated areas.
A visit to this natural attraction is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
2. The Everglades, Homestead
- Entrance fees (7-day pass): $15 for pedestrians and cyclists, $25 for a motorcycle, and $30 for a vehicle. An annual pass costs $55.
Recognized around the world for its ecological features and incredible biodiversity, the Everglades is America’s largest tropical wilderness, spanning over 1 million acres.
Located on the southern tip of Florida’s peninsula, this destination is packed with natural attractions, including wetlands and forests. On top of that, the Everglades is home to some unique plants and wildlife, including panthers and alligators.
The most common way of exploring this beautiful destination is by airboat, and there are plenty of tours to choose from. They take tourists to the park’s wetlands, allowing them to discover the unique ecosystems. The breathtaking beauty of this park will leave everyone in awe!
3. Blue Spring State Park, Orange City
- Entrance fees: $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, $6 per vehicle for 2-8 people, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.
- The peak season for manatees: January and February.
Blue Spring State Park is one of the top natural attractions in Florida and would definitely change how you see Florida. It’s one of the top destinations to see the manatees in the state, and while tourists are allowed to swim in Blue Spring, they can’t dive or swim with these wonderful creatures.
So, if you go there, you should know you’re only allowed to enjoy the views from the park’s designated areas. Also, when it comes to swimming, you can only do that during the off-season, which is between April and mid-November.
You can also see hundreds of manatees while cruising along the St. John River.
4. Florida Caverns State Park, Marianna
- Entrance fees: $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, $5 per vehicle for 2-8 people, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers.
- Time for cavern tours: Monday to Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Florida Caverns State Park is where you’ll find some of the most impressive rock formations in the country. These stunning stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstones have been formed for thousands of years.
Visitors can explore these natural attractions on guided tours, which are available from Monday to Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. These tours get vacationers through numerous cave rooms, where they can learn about their history and unique geological features. The cave is home to salamanders, bats, cave spiders, mice, and other animals.
5. Torreya State Park, Bristol
- Entrance fees: $3 per motorcycle or vehicle and $2 per pedestrian and bicyclist.
- Opening hours: 8 a.m. to sunset.
One of Florida’s oldest state parks, Torreya State Park, dates back to the 1930s and is one of the best natural attractions in the state. It’s known for providing lots of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, camping, and picnicking.
It’s also a great place for birdwatching, thanks to being home to more than 100 different bird species. During the fall months, the forest’s hardwood trees create a wonderland full of stunning autumn colors.
This destination is named after a rare species of Torreya tree that can be found along the Apalachicola River.
6. Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel
- The beach’s amenities: outdoor showers, picnic tables, restrooms, BBQ grills, parking, and a playground.
If you want to experience turquoise water and white sands in Florida, this natural attraction is a great place to do that! Stretching for numerous miles, Bowman’s Beach provides plenty of space to truly unwind and relax.
Recognized as one of the world’s top 10 beaches, a wonderful time awaits on this lovely stretch of white sand. Whether you just want to chill under the sun or engage in water activities, this natural attraction is definitely a place to remember.
Located on Sanibel Island, this destination is great for families, and visitors can bring picnic supplies, some snacks, and drinking water.
7. Devil’s Den, Williston
- What to bring: food, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, towel, swimsuit, drinking water, underwater camera, and scuba diving gear.
- Day trips from the Devil’s Den: Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa (under two hours), and Gainesville (30 minutes away).
Devil’s Den is one of the most stunning natural attractions in Florida. While this destination is considered mysterious, it guarantees an unforgettable and fun experience, especially for scuba divers and snorkelers.
Boasting spectacular, crystal-clear freshwater springs, this place is a bucket-list-worthy destination. Devil’s Den’s sights are incredibly breathtaking, and tourists don’t have to scuba dive to enjoy its beauty.
8. Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is one of those unique places where you’ll find some of the most beloved and impressive wildlife and wilderness. The forest offers incredible camping, hiking, and water sports opportunities.
It’s a great spot to explore natural attractions and escape the crowded theme parks. Ocala National Forest features more than 600 rivers and lakes where travelers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, batting, fishing, and canoeing.
Enjoy exploring the park’s beauty by hiking the Florida National Scenic Trail and admiring more of the natural attractions the state of Florida has to offer. A trip to this spectacular woodland is always worth it, even if you only spend a few hours here.
9. Crystal River
- The peak season for manatees: December to February.
Natural attractions offer us all a chance to reconnect with our natural surroundings and unplug from the stresses of daily life. Crystal View is the perfect spot to see the manatee in their natural habitat, and the best time to spot them is between December and February. You can even swim with manatees on airboat tours and Crystal River cruises.
Some of the most spectacular locations to explore in this area are the Three Sister Springs. There are many great outdoor opportunities here, including diving, hiking some of Florida’s impressive forests, swimming with manatees, golfing, and enjoying the area’s delicious seafood.
10. Lake Apopka
Located within a short distance from crowded Orlando, this is one of the best natural attractions, offering a unique wildlife experience.
Lake Apopka is a true birdwatcher’s paradise, and visitors can easily spend a day or more visiting the area. The magnificent drive along this lake is one of the best, as it’s long and unlike other National Wildlife Refuges.
Plus, there are many other options to choose from. The area has parking spots where tourists can keep their cars and engage in stunning walks while admiring the scenic features of the lake.
You may also want to read 10 Laid-Back US States Where You Can Truly Relax.
