As spring break approaches, common Florida beaches can become completely packed. Many people in northern states go to Florida for spring break since it’s a close flight or drive with warm weather and tons of places to go at a reasonable price. Choosing Florida is no mistake, but going to the same overpopulated basic destinations is a poor decision. While Florida is famed for its known beaches and parks, there is much more beauty in the places off the beaten path.
For visitors that are in for a view beyond a traditional beach, Ocala National Forest is an unkownspot. Located in north Florida, this area is home to 600 acres filled with lakes and rivers. Along with the numerous water features, the wildlife here is breathtaking. Horse lovers will be beyond wowed due to hundreds of horse farms, horse related activities and events. Visitors can enjoy kayaking down the waters and biking along the trails. Between the crystal clear spring waters and the pine trees, this destination will never disappoint a visitor. For those who are in for an outdoorsy experience rather than a hot beach, Ocala awaits.
On the other hand, a hot beach is not always a bad choice. As far as beautiful ocean waters, Juniper Beach is breathtaking. Juniper beach is located in Palm Beach County and has 3.4 miles of beaches along its coastline for all visitors to enjoy. Due to its location in the Gulf Stream, a constant flow of tropical water clarifies the water and visibility. This constant flow of healthy waters results in phytoplankton, which are microscopic plants. These plants produce chlorophyll which results in the water producing a light turquoise color. Tourists who have visited or residents currently living there, comment on the water looking gatorade blue. With a rich history, endless dining and lovely sitting opportunities, this destination will wow any and every visitor.
For those interested in architectural buildings and town sites while still having an oceanside view, Fernandina Beach in Amelia, Florida is the perfect place. Fernandina beach is home to many historical and cultural attractions, as well as a boardwalk along the water. The city is on a small island that is 13 miles long and two miles wide. Though it is not big, it makes this city the perfect destination to walk around the town while still having pretty waters to swim in. Fernandina beach was one of Florida’s first walk-about towns and still remains a strolling type of town due to all of its harbor views, architecture, shops, buildings and restaurants. This city additionally has two piers where visitors can gather and take in the views. This town is the best hidden treasure for town views while still having a beach as well.
Sometimes beaches and towns are not everyone’s cup of tea. Lake Wales located in Polk, Florida is the most fairytale location in Florida. Bok tower is a tall, Rapunzel-looking tower that visitors can climb to see even higher views from a height. Along with the tower, lakes surrounding it are filled with thousands of lily pads, some even large enough for a human to sit on. If this was not enough to satisfy a visitor, Lake Wales is also home to a historic mansion, El Retero. This 1930s mansion is surrounded by natural gardens and all sorts of plants. Even containing a specific fairy garden for children to run around in! This place brings back childhood memories for all kinds of visitors.
Spring break can be kept classy with an original beach experience at less populated beaches with the same astonishing views and experiences. Panama, Destin, Miami and Tampa are all overcrowded on vacation while time at Pompano Beach would be less populated and still the same amount of fun. Pompano Beach is a family friendly experience with clear waters, wonderful views, great shops, cafés and lovely places to stay for some families who want a similar experience to the popular places, but a more private and less populated area. With its beautiful pier and gorgeous shore, this laid back location brings the perfect relaxation to any vacation.
Florida is such a beautiful state with an immense amount of hidden treasures that are just waiting to be explored. There are numerous possibilities to meet anyone’s expectations or satisfy anybody’s craving for a relaxing time. There is so much in one state that meets the eye in such a positive way. So whether spring break is for exploring or relaxing, there is always more beyond familiar destinations.
