Florida is renowned as one of the best places for nature-loving adventurers to visit. It offers up a vast range of diverse ecosystems and stunning natural wonders, from its pristine beaches along the coastline to its huge, biodiverse wetlands.
If you love the great outdoors, then Florida has something to offer you. So whether you are setting off on a weekend cruise from Tampa or just looking for your next vacation destination, here are some of the Sunshine State’s most captivating natural attractions.
Sun-Kissed Beaches
Florida boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so is the perfect destination for anyone who loves sun, sand, and surf. Its extensive coastline takes in the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico, giving it a diverse array of sun-kissed beaches that offer something for everyone. From the glamorous party vibes of South Beach in Miami to the elegant tranquility of Sanibel Island, visitors can expect sugar-soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful ocean vistas in almost every corner of Florida.
Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park is a genuine natural wonder of the world. This ‘River of Grass’ is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and one of the most significant and incredible ecosystems on the planet. It is a vast, subtropical wilderness consisting of marshes, mangroves, forests, and prairies, and is home to a truly incredible array of wildlife, from alligators and manatees to panthers and deer. It is also one of the best places around for birdwatchers, with a plethora of bird species to be discovered. Whether hiking, kayaking, or on an airboat tour, a visit to the Everglades is a special experience.
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is a haven of peace and tranquility in central Florida, full of ancient trees and shimmering natural springs. This sand pine scrub forest is the perfect spot for camping, hiking, and swimming in Florida’s famous hot springs.
Dry Tortugas National Park
The Dry Tortugas National Park is nothing like its name suggests. This off-the-beaten-track destination is as breathtaking as it is remote, an extraordinary marine national park accessible only by boat or seaplane from Key West in the Florida Keys. Famous for its untouched coral reefs, vibrant tropical fish, and the majestic and imposing Fort Jefferson semi-submerged in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, it is a surreal and exciting place to get away from everything and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Big Cypress National Preserve
Right next to the vast expanse of the Everglades National Park lies another incredible ecosystem, one that often gets overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbor. But Big Cypress National Preserve is also worth a look, thanks to its remarkable mosaic of cypress swamps, hardwood hammocks, and expansive prairies. It is an essential habitat for a huge variety of biodiversity, and is home to several important and endangered species.
Canaveral National Seashore
Within a stone’s through of the renowned space exploration center at Cape Canaveral, this pristine barrier island offers an alternative experience for nature lovers along Florida’s east coast. Packed with untouched and undiscovered beaches and rolling sand dunes, and teeming with seabirds, sea turtles, and a vast array of marine life, it is a wonderful spot to explore. Visitors can spend their time snorkeling, surfing, and fishing, or wandering the beaches on a beachcombing or birdwatching expedition.
From beaches to swamps, Florida boasts an incredible array of habitats and landscapes, which makes it one of the best places in the world for nature enthusiasts to visit.
