Florida is well-known for its bustling tourist hubs such as Miami and Orlando, but there are lovely communities hidden away that deserve more recognition. These underappreciated destinations provide one-of-a-kind experiences, breathtaking scenery, and a rich blend of culture and history.
From stunning beach settlements to tranquil rural getaways, each town has its distinct personality. Whether you’re looking for small stores, thriving local art scenes, or outdoor excursions, these hidden gems offer a refreshing break from the usual tourist traps.
Join us as we tour seven of Florida’s most underrated towns, highlighting its attractions, hidden gems, and why they should be on everyone’s itinerary. Discover Florida’s hidden charms and the splendor of these lesser-known locales.
1. Clewiston
Clewiston, sometimes known as “America’s Sweetest Town,” is a picturesque community located on Lake Okeechobee’s southern shore. The town’s namesake stems from its considerable engagement in the sugar business, with the U.S. Sugar Corporation, one of the country’s largest producers of cane sugar, based here.
Civic Park, famed for its shaded and well-kept grounds next to tennis courts and a library, also hosts Clewiston’s Sugar Festival, which attracts foodies from all over the state. Notable dining alternatives include Sonny’s BBQ, known for its Southern-style barbecue, and Roland Martin’s Marina & Resort, which serves fresh seafood.
2. Cape Canaveral
Cape Canaveral, on Florida’s Space Coast, is linked with American space exploration history. Its main feature, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, provides a detailed look at the Apollo moon landing missions, Space Shuttle launches, and astronaut meet-and-greet chances.
The town is also home to Port Canaveral, one of the world’s busiest cruise ports. On the natural front, the Canaveral National Seashore is an excellent spot for bird watching, with over 310 species documented.
Another attraction is the 19th-century Cape Canaveral Lighthouse, which offers infrequent excursions (reservations required). Rusty’s Seafood and Oyster Bar is well-known for serving fresh oysters and clams.
3. Amelia Island
Located in the northeastern panhandle, 20 minutes from Georgia, this ancient slice of paradise has been governed by the French, Spanish, and English. Amelia Island will attest to all epicureans who seek enjoyment in all aspects of their lives. Offering actual respite in a paradise setting, one can spend days lazing on the sands, taking languid dips to stretch the bones, and sauntering over to the nearest beachside seafood shack for some first-rate chow.
The island also caters to golfers, and families may enjoy sightseeing on a bike or horseback, as well as cookery workshops. Amelia Island is all about slowing down for physical and mental rest, based on a sensation of perpetual meditation, which is easy to attain in such beautiful surroundings.
4. Deerfield Island
Brimming with an Old Florida atmosphere, the delightful village is a charmingly quaint escape for that final boost in charge to 100% before the summer ends, reclining on the award-winning coastline. The pristine beaches offer a variety of water-based activities for the energetic, as well as a beautiful 976-foot-long fishing pier for sightseeing and photo opportunities.
Nature lovers can visit Deerfield Island Park to explore the picturesque nature trails and mangrove swamps, while families can have some fun-filled bonding at the Splash Adventure Water Park, which features thrilling water slides. There are several dining options, including the Charm City Burger Company, JB’s on the Beach for seafood, and Little Havana Restaurant for real Cuban cuisine.
The genuinely underestimated Florida destination, located near Fort Lauderdale in the northern portion of the state, offers cove-like Atlantic Ocean beaches, free surfing, and stand-up paddleboard classes on Saturday mornings, as well as “Full Moon Paddle Tours.”
5. Havana
Havana, located about a dozen miles north of Tallahassee on the Georgia border, is a former agricultural settlement that has been transformed into a picturesque town for those who enjoy history and antiques. After reinventing itself as a shopping destination, one will find streets lined with unique boutiques, antique stores, and local restaurants.
Known for truly vital findings among stands upon stands of antiques and collectibles, there is home decor, furniture, jewelry, and art available. The Quincy Historic District is a great site to spend an afternoon admiring the structures, especially the Gadsden Arts Center, which is the “cherry on top”. The former hardware store-turned-art center showcases magnificent works by local and nationally known artists for free viewing.
6. Jensen Beach
Jensen Beach is the true hidden jewel of the Treasure Coast in southeast Florida, with a relaxed atmosphere and a famous cuisine scene. Set an hour north of West Palm Beach, it is also noted for citrus farms, having formerly been dubbed the “Pineapple Capital of the World.” The yearly festival of the prickly tropical fruit features live music, colorful spectacles, and pineapple cooking and eating competitions.
The beach, which is located on an aquatic preserve, is a water-sports paradise with activities ranging from sailing to scuba diving, and it is well known for its nesting turtles. The neighboring Walton Rocks Beach is a dog-friendly destination for runs or sunbathing with one’s closest companion. The wonderful seafood comes with a plethora of eateries and shacks to select from, all providing fresh fish.
7. Manasota Key
Set on the west coast, 50 minutes south of Sarasota, the secret Manasota Key is a true treasure cove hotspot for shelling. Blind Pass Park Beach is known for its beautiful shells, shark teeth, and nesting sea turtles. Manasota Key, known for having the highest density of nesting turtles on the entire Gulf Coast, has a modest population of just over 1,200 residents who enjoy a pleasant and relaxing escape in a laid-back environment.
Bounded by an emerald-green ocean, one may parasail for breathtaking vistas, fish for native groupers, and watch the sunset over the waves. All those treasure hunts on the beach and cocktails in the sun call for a trek through the shady Stump Pass Beach State Park, a true natural paradise.
Summary
To summarize, Florida’s underestimated communities have a plethora of unique experiences, breathtaking scenery, and a rich cultural legacy waiting to be found. From the serene beaches of Amelia Island to the ancient charm of Havana, these hidden jewels offer a welcome respite from the state’s more well-known attractions. Enjoy the laid-back environment, sample local cuisine, and discover the natural beauty of these communities. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, these villages highlight Florida’s inherent appeal away from the tourist crowds, making them excellent additions to any trip plan. So, schedule your visit to discover the grandeur of these hidden jewels!