If you’re looking for hidden gems where you can enjoy a slower pace in a peaceful getaway, look no further than these small towns in Florida. While the state is known for glitzy Miami and vibrant Tampa, it’s also home to many small, serene towns. Here are seven delightful small towns to explore in Florida.
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Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs is a lively yet quaint waterfront town with a rich history and unique cultural flair. The town is known for its strong Greek heritage, scenic waterfront, and sponge diving past.
Located between the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Tarpon, it offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying parks along the waterfront, all with picturesque views. The historic downtown streets are lined with art galleries, Greek tavernas, and boutiques shops, giving the town a vibrant atmosphere.
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Fernandina Beach
Located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is a peaceful coastal town where time seems to stand still. Its historic streets are lined with Victorian-style architecture, antique stores, boutiques, and unique restaurants.
Once a bustling Victorian seaport, the town boasts 13 miles of beaches, with easy access for swimming and sunbathing. With its serene waterfront views, Fernandina Beach is the ideal spot for those looking to avoid crowds and unwind by the sea.
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DeFuniak Springs
DeFuniak Springs has a classic small town and “Old Florida” charm; it’s quiet, slow-paced, and rich in history.
Centered around Lake DeFuniak, one of the only nearly perfect, spring-fed lakes in the world, the lake is a local favorite for birdwatching, kayaking, and canoeing. The town features Victorian-style homes, museums, gift shops, and over 50 beach access points.
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Fort White
Fort White is a rural community with a strong focus on nature. It’s near several state parks, including Ichetucknee Springs State Park and River Rise Preserve State Park, acting as the perfect jumping-off point for a nature escape.
Surrounded by forests, rivers, and springs, the area is popular for its hiking, tubing, swimming, and wildlife spotting opportunities. The town features a few local shops and restaurants, but the majority of the area consists of farmland and single-family homes.
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Sanford
Sanford is a lively, historic riverfront town with brick-paved streets in its downtown core. It’s roughly 30 minutes outside of Orlando and features historic architecture, bars, breweries, and diverse restaurants.
On the weekends, the center of downtown, marked by a historic clock, comes alive with farmers’ and artisan markets. For those who enjoy adventure, the scenic waterfront offers kayaking and hiking trails.
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Apalachicola
Apalachicola is a town rooted in history with beautifully preserved historic buildings on the Northwest Coast. The town has a strong connection to the sea, offering activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Known as the “oyster capital”, the town is famous for its fresh seafood, especially its oysters, which you can try at The Station Raw Bar, Half Shell Dockside, or several other seafood favorites. There are also a variety of museums, art galleries, and nearby beaches for those seeking adventure.
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Matlacha
Matlcha is an artsy island town in between Pine Island Center and Cape Coral that has a blend of old-Florida fishing roots. The town features a unique selection of gift shops, artwork, jewelry, and clothing, alongside fresh seafood restaurants and microbreweries.
Situated directly on the water, Matlacha provides easy access to fishing, kayaking, and exploring the surrounding waterways, and it’s also a great place to enjoy stunning sunsets.
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Escape the City
If you’re looking to escape the city for the weekend, these small towns in Florida are the perfect destinations. Whether you enjoy being close to the water, exploring museums, or seeking a calm yet adventurous getaway, these towns offer something for everyone.
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