Florida is a true paradise on Earth. Whether you love to fish, swim, hike, camp, or just explore, Florida has something for everyone. Thus, creating a list of its most incredible natural wonders is almost impossible, but we decided to give it a shot. We really just wanted to get the ball rolling, so we could hear all of your suggestions, including maybe a few we've never heard of.
1. The Everglades
The Everglades consists of more than a million acres of the biological diversity and natural beauty that Florida was famous for long before its theme parks and vacation spots. The brightest jewel in Florida's crown has long been threatened by development, but many Floridians are fighting to save it.
2. Our natural springs
Some of our state's oldest and greatest attractions are our crystal-clear freshwater springs. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time tourist, a visit to one (or more) of Florida's springs should be on your to-do list.
3. Florida Reef
Florida is home to the world's third largest coral reef. Visit Biscayne National Park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to explore its natural beauty.
4. Rare and endangered wildlife
Many animals found here, like the Florida Panther (endangered) and the American Alligator (threatened), are exceedingly unique and rare. Though the Bald Eagle was removed from endangered status in 2007, it's still really exciting to see one of these majestic birds in the wild.
5. Torreya State Park
Although all of our state parks deserve your attention, Torreya is extra special. This scene might look a little unusual for Florida, and that's because it's taken from a 150-foot high bluff. This park in Northwestern Florida is also home to the very rare tree for which it is named. Judging from the beautiful colors in this photo, fall is a great time to check it out.
6. Pristine white sand beaches
Florida has some of the finest white powder beaches in the world. Not only is it a beautiful sight, the whitest sands keep your feet nice and cool.
7. Mangroves
Not only are mangroves an essential part of our ecosystem, their wild tangle of roots are quite spectacular to behold.
8. Blowing Rocks Preserve
Large rock formations are not what most people think of when they think of Florida beaches, but we do actually have some rocky coastline. The formations found at this preserve on Jupiter Island in Hobe Sound are the largest of their kind on Florida's east coast. The ocean spray hitting the rocks can be sent up to 50 feet in the air, which is how they got their name.
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9. Florida Caverns
The Florida Caverns are a natural wonder because air-filled caves are not as common here as they are across the country. Most of our caves can only be explored underwater, which requires special training. That's why we believe the Florida Caverns deserves special mention, as they are the only air-filled caves in Florida that offer tours for visitors. The state park named for the caverns is in the panhandle, and it's definitely worth a visit.
Have you seen any of these incredible natural wonders? Do you have any others you'd like to add to our list? Please share them with us in the comments below!
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