For anyone sick of hearing that visiting Florida is solely about exploring Walt Disney World, this list of hidden gems in Florida is for you. Take a look at our comprehensive list of Only in Your State Florida hidden gems, which includes state parks where you can explore caverns or swim with manatees, quiet beaches where you can actually relax, verdant gardens, and top-notch restaurants. Sounds like a dreamy way to escape your staycation rut!

So gas up the car and start exploring everything our beautiful state really has to offer.

1. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, FL

This majestic 200-acre garden features a 205-foot singing tower facing a reflecting pool, a bird sanctuary, and acres of oaks, pines, ferns, camellias, jasmine, spider lily, and wetland plants. Learn more about Bok Tower Gardens.

2. Crystal River State Park in Citrus County, FL

Crystal River not only has some of the clearest water in Florida, but you can also legally swim up close with endangered manatees. Read further on about Crystal River State Park.

3. Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon, FL

Visit Rainbow Springs and take a walk through paradise. The park offers swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing in some parts of its beautiful blue springs. You can also spot some incredible wildlife and man-made (but still spectacular) waterfalls at this hidden gem in Florida. Explore what Rainbow Springs State Park has to offer further.

4. Winter Park, FL

This central Florida hidden gem offers lots of cute shops, restaurants, and parks to stroll through, as well as an excellent Saturday morning farmer's market and cultural landmarks like the Morse Museum, which holds the most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany's works in the world.

5. Falling Waters State Park

Falling Waters near Chipley, FL, is home to the tallest waterfall (and one of very few, period) in the state of Florida. It can be quite impressive after a heavy rain, as the water rushes down 73 feet of limestone into a huge sinkhole. It is definitely one of my favorite Only in Your State Florida hidden gems. Find out more about Falling Waters State Park.

6. Santa Rosa Beach

This beach is renowned for its turquoise waters and upscale dining, but visitors should also check out the nearby artist colony, Gulf Place. Santa Rosa Beach also touches Point Washington State Forest, a 15,000-acre preserve for an alternative to beach days. Learn more about what you can do at Santa Rosa Beach.

7. Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop in Fort Lauderdale, FL

This hidden gem in Florida has over 2,000 vendors for 180,000 square feet of shopping, restaurants, farmers markets with tons of local produce, and one of the world's largest drive-in movie theaters. Whatever you're looking for, Swap Shop probably has it. There are also locations in Tampa and Lake Worth. Get more details on the Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop.

8. The French Pantry in Jacksonville, FL

Put on your fancy pants and head to this tres chic cafe in Jacksonville that has been an icon for over 20 years. As expected, they have some of the best pastries and cakes you will ever try, but they're only open for lunch. Head to the website for the French Pantry for the latest updates.

9. Tigertail Beach, Marco Island, FL

A beach in Florida where you can actually get some alone time makes this a true hidden gem in Florida. Enjoy the lagoon or the beach for emerald Gulf waters and bright white sand. Read further on about Tigertail Beach.

10. Ravine Gardens State Park in Palatka, FL

Ravine Gardens State Park is a truly majestic place, brimming with history and nature. The ancient ravines on this land have been transformed into a rustic, tropical garden for all to enjoy. Come spend the day in nature under the Florida sunshine. The best hidden gems in Florida don't get much better than this. Explore the offerings of Ravine Gardens State Park even more.

11. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Another fantastic Only in Your State Florida hidden gem, this park on Key Biscayne is home to the Cape Florida Light (the oldest standing structure in Miami), was a stop on the Underground Railroad, and has one of the best beaches in the country. Get more details on Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.

12. Caladesi Island, Dunedin, FL (offshore)

Caladesi Island is one of the best beaches in the country and one of the few in Florida that have been kept completely natural. Here are some more great reasons to visit Caladesi Island.

13. Secret Woods Nature Center, Dania Beach, FL

Editor's Note: This area is temporarily closed as of 11/2023.

This Urban Wilderness Area features many different trees native to Florida, including cypress, maple, mangrove, and a laurel oak hammock. Then there's the butterfly garden and reptile habitat, making this hidden gem in Florida fun for nature-loving adults and kids alike. Learn more at the website for the Secret Woods Nature Center.

14. Blowing Rocks Preserve, Hobe Sound, FL

On this preserve on Jupiter Island, you'll see waves breaking on huge limestone formations, sending sprays up to 50 feet in the air. Don't miss the educational center, plant nursery, boardwalk, and butterfly garden at this Only in Your State Florida hidden gem. Find out more about Blowing Rocks Preserve.

15. The Goblin Market Restaurant in Mount Dora, FL

The Goblin Market is an eclectic bistro that is a must-visit for anyone near the charming town of Mount Dora. The restaurant has a great ambiance that's matched by high-quality steaks and seafood. Books line the walls of the three small dining rooms, and most guests rave about the shady courtyard and garden patio. Discover more about the Goblin Market Restaurant.

16. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach, FL

This center for Japanese culture in Palm Beach County is unique and serene, offering Japanese tea ceremonies, a bonsai garden, festivals, classes, and a superb gift shop and cafe. Get more details about the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens.

17. Florida Caverns State Park, Marianna, FL

This park provides access to the only air-filled caves open to the public in Florida. The park also offers bicycling, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. This spot is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. Find out more about what it is like to visit Florida Caverns State Park.

The truth is, we live in a vast state, so of course, no single list could gather all of the best hidden gems in Florida. Plus, the very best ones are probably still well hidden. But if you happen to know of a spot that we missed above and you think your fellow Floridians would love to hear about it, then shout it out in the comments section below!

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