If you're not returning to your hometown this summer, or you're lucky enough to call Orlando, the heart of the Sunshine State, your forever home, you'll be happy to know that you do not have to travel very far to visit some beautiful Florida beaches and some world-known attractions. No, I don't mean the homes of "Mickey and Harry," (though we all love our fair share of them), but rather the hidden treasures that may lie just a few steps below the radar.
5. International Drive, Orlando
Photo: officialorlandoeye.com
If you're hangin' in O-Town for a majority of your summer, get ready to experience an entirely new perspective of the city that we all know and love. I-Drive has always been the largest and most populated tourist-strip in the city; however, an array of new attractions are opening early this summer, dubbed "I-Drive 360." Most exciting, and most visible, is the new Orlando Eye. Similar to the well-known London Eye, this 400-foot Ferris wheel gives riders extraordinary views of all of Orlando. From the nearby theme park district, to the elegant sights of Downtown Orlando and Lake Eola, these views are not to be missed. Additionally, the revamped International Drive is now the home to a new Madame Tussauds wax museum, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, as well as Skeletons: Animals Unveiled! and multiple other attractions. These attractions may be filled with tourists, but don't be fooled! The new attractions boast plenty of room for Florida residents, some even offering discounts for the FloGrown!
4. Stuart, Martin County
Photo: sailfishpoint.com
Those of you who enjoy boating and fishing can't miss out on this SoFlo destination on the East Coast. Stuart is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World, and its offshore fishing opportunities feature over 800 species of fish waiting to be caught! The city is less than an hour away from Palm Beach County and provides easy access to many beautiful beaches, nature preserves and channels. For those who are less interested in "salt life," Stuart has something for those all of ages and interests including many shopping and dining options as well as a popular downtown area which features live music outdoors through much of the year.
3. Gulf Beaches, West Coast
Photo: VisitFlorida.com
From Clearwater in the Tampa area, all the way down to Marco Island off of Naples, Florida's Gulf Coast features dozens of nationally ranked beaches to be explored. Beach bums who enjoy crowded tourist-driven areas may find what they desire in Clearwater, St. Pete Beach, or even Anna Maria Island. Whereas, if a quiet serene view is what you desire, you can find home in Siesta Key (off of Sarasota) or parts of Captiva Island (located West of Fort Meyers). All of these beaches share many similar elements like the warm, clear water and the breathtaking sunsets that West Florida has to offer.
2. Tarpon Springs, Pinellas County
Photo: tampabay.com
Located just 13 miles, or about 20 minutes, north of Clearwater Beach and the same distance from the city of Tampa, Tarpon Springs is one of Florida's most unique and culturally rich cities. A hidden gem known by few outsiders, locals (like myself) flee to the Sponge Docks frequently, taking part in Greek traditions (sponge-diving tours, Greek dancing, religious ceremonies and much more) and shopping, as well as devouring both Greek classics and Florida fresh seafood. The city's convenient location, in between two major tourist hubs, makes Tarpon easily accessible during either a day trip or a vacation to the West Coast and is surely not an excursion that you want to pass up.
1. Bahia Honda State Park, Florida Keys
Photo: bahiahondapark.com
Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't take traveling thousands of miles to the Great Barrier Reef to take in some breathtaking views under the sea. Bahia Honda State Park, located in the Florida keys, just about forty-five minutes closer to the mainland from Key West, offers snorkeling and scuba diving with views unparalleled to any other snorkeling sights in the Sunshine State, and arguably in the continental United States. While the park is located multiple hours off the mainland and is hard to classify as a day-trip for those residing outside of the keys, the park's proximity to Key West makes this destination suitable for anyone's summer vacation. Rated as the top attraction in the Florida Keys, this unforgettable experience is a must for adventurous Floridians and tourists alike.
