It’s the sweltering summertime in the Sunshine State and many resident Floridians are turning their vacations northward in search of cooler temperatures.
But even within a few hours of Orlando, there are pristine beaches to behold, shimmering springs to swim and quirky attractions to explore. Some destinations have history abound, while others have modern local eats and amenities for a comfortable stay.
Here are ideas for summer getaways fit for a quick weekend away or a weeklong vacation.
Rainbow Springs/Dunnellon
Nothing helps beat the summer heat quite like taking a dip in crystal-clear 72-degree waters. Visit Rainbow Springs State Park to take a plunge into sapphire-blue springs, which together pump out more than 400 million gallons of water per day. Tubing, snorkeling and paddling are popular activities in the park, which features manmade waterfalls left over from Rainbow Springs’ private attraction days. Be sure to arrive early during the summer to ensure entry.
After a day on the spring run, venture into the quaint town of Dunnellon for a bite at waterfront staples such as Swampy’s Bar and Grille or Blue Gator Tiki Bar and Restaurant. For overnight stays, the area features a range of affordable motels, hotels, camping and vacation rentals.
High Springs
Nestled near the Santa Fe River in Alachua County, High Springs is a jumping-off point for adventure. While the town of just several thousand permanent residents features eateries, a brewery, small shops and ice cream, the real draw of this area lies in the springs.
Visit several nearby swimming holes and water-based points of interest, including the Ginnie Springs system, Rum Island Springs, Poe Springs and Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. Ichetucknee Springs State Park isn’t far, either. Camping at Ginnie Springs is a popular overnight option, but visitors can also consider nearby bed and breakfasts, hotels and rentals.
Tarpon Springs
Known for its Greek culture and as the “sponge capital of the world,” Tarpon Springs presents abundant charm and natural scenery along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Walk along brick streets, taking in nearly 150 years of history while browsing natural sponges in souvenir shops, Greek restaurants and local art.
The town also offers plenty of options for spending time outside with paddling tours, dolphin cruises and nearby parks primed for watching picturesque sunsets over the Gulf.
Crystal River
Famous for being the “manatee capital of the world,” Crystal River has the only national wildlife refuge created to protect the habitats of Florida’s official marine animal. Hundreds of manatees congregate in the springs during colder months for the life-giving warmth of the springs.
Even during the summer months, visitors can embark on specially permitted manatee tours to get up close with Florida’s sea cows. The area also has options for paddling, hiking, lounging on the beach and enjoying seafood restaurants. Explore hotels and vacation rentals for overnight stays.
Key West
The Conch Republic has a storied history that features native inhabitants, Spanish explorers, hurricanes, a brief drive for independence and Ernest Hemingway. During a visit to Key West, tourists can explore a shipwreck museum, visit the Hemingway Home, watch the sunset from Mallory Square, get a photo with the southernmost point monument and drink on Duval Street.
Prices for overnight stays in Key West vary depending on the season but tend to increase during the dry season between November and April. Summer may be a good time to visit to take advantage of lower hotel rates, snorkeling tours and experiences cooling down on the water.
St. Augustine
When searching for history, look no further than the place that claims to be the oldest city in the United States. St. Augustine is the oldest “continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin” in the U.S.
Visit several museums and attractions that take tourists into centuries past, including the Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the Old Jail Museum, the Lightner Museum and the St. Augustine Shipwreck Museum. The dark and macabre can be found during a trip to the Medieval Torture Museum or by embarking on a ghost tour. A wide range of hotels and vacation rentals are open for overnight guests.
Siesta Key
While many stretches of shoreline carry the risk of burnt feet for shoeless beachgoers, Siesta Key features white quartz sand that’s soft and cooler to the touch. Combined with the turquoise Gulf waters, small-town charm and amenities, Siesta Key has been ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. several times.
Find nearby waterfront dining and a Sunday evening drum circle on the beach or indulge in adult beverages at Daiquiri Deck. There are a number of resorts and bungalows to ensure overnight guests have a relaxing siesta, indeed.
Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach experienced catastrophic storm surge and howling winds when Hurricane Ian made landfall last year, but the region is on its way to recovery. Lighthouse Beach Park is now open along with J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, most beaches and a number of dining options.
Around Fort Myers Beach and further inland, there are places to eat and drink, things to do and hotels, resorts and rentals ready to accommodate visitors.
Amelia Island
Tucked away on the Atlantic Coast just outside Jacksonville, there’s an island that time forgot. Amelia Island is home to a mid-19th-century fort, Florida’s oldest bar and an “Old Town” settled by the Spanish in the early 1800s (and long before that, the Timucua Indians).
Explore plenty of restaurants and bars, beaches and a Saturday farmers’ market in this laid-back island oasis.
Destin/Grayton Beach
Vacationers of all interests can find something to do in Destin, a Gulf Coast city in the Florida Panhandle with fishing, golf, tennis, diving and snorkeling, not to mention pristine beaches. A little further east, visit Grayton Beach to find a small town with a relaxed, hippie vibe and beautiful beaches.
On this scenic stretch of coastline, some beaches are protected and are pristine state parks, while there are also opportunities for biking and hiking on nature trails.
READ MORE:
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- Six months after Ian: Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel remain changed but show human resilience
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- Hike through history of ill-fated Cross Florida Barge Canal at ‘The Island’ in Ocala
- Florida residents get early access to state park reservations, per new law
- Koreshan State Park highlights history of obscure, once thriving religious commune
- 15 pieces of gear worth packing for summer adventures
- SunRail to Trails: A car-free Orlando to Blue Spring adventure
Find me @PConnPie on Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com.
