One month before 2018 ended, Florida saw a record of 95.8 million tourists.

Clearly many people have already discovered the beauty of Florida. 

If you love exotic travel, you don’t have to go overseas. Wait until you see these seven hidden gems in Florida!

1. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

You’ve probably seen videographers put together gorgeous Vimeo videos (here are some promo codes to watch more) and wondered where they found their beautiful scenery. 

Sometimes the answer is in Florida. 

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is one of the places that the locals know about but not tourists. When you visit this park you get to watch a live mermaid show. 

You can watch them swim around in a giant underwater theater that provides an experience like you’ve never had before. 

After watching that, you can go take a kayak out, hang out on the slides, or visit the ocean at Hernando Beach.

2. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is like having your own private island because most tourists don’t know about this either.

Anna Maria is a 7 mile strip of land surrounded by water. The views are breathtaking and so laid back. If you want a relaxing vacation, this is definitely a place to visit. 

If you want a little bit of fun or adventure here, you can rent a surfboard or a boogie board and ride some of the waves out there.

3. Banyan Tree

There are bits of paradise in Islamorada, like the Banyan Tree. This is a hidden oasis, and you can wander through the garden. There are also little shops that sell Florida Keys souvenir. You can even take painting classes here.

4. Captiva Island

Captiva Island will definitely leave you captivated by its beauty.

This island features bright white sand that you can walk on for miles. However, this island also features incredibly beautiful sunsets on the beach.

If you want to collect shells as souvenirs, this is a great place to visit. 

5. Sponge Docks

The sponge docks in Tarpon Springs have a lot of Greek history in it. 

There is a museum here that will tell you all about the history of the sponge docks. You can find all kinds of shops for souvenirs and many authentic Greek restaurants and stores. You can even buy a sponge to have as a souvenir. 

6. Crystal River National Wildlife Refugee

The waters are naturally warm which attract many manatees, and they are also great for swimming in. You can also take kayaks out here to get real up close and personal with them.

If you want to get a better look at them, you can rent a snorkel and see them.

7. Devil’s Den

Devil’s Den is perhaps one of the best hidden gems in Florida. 

There is a small area of the ground that collapsed over an underground river, and now it has become a popular diving cave. This is some of the clearest waters to snorkel in. 

Visit These Hidden Gems in Florida Today

These are some of the best hidden gems in Florida that you definitely have to add to your itinerary.

Are you ready to start planning your trip to Florida?

Check out this blog post on tips for packing your suitcase!