On Wednesday and Saturday evenings, drummers, musicians and dancers congregate at the beach about two hours before sunset, drawing an audience that can reach a few hundred. I moved to Florida in 1960 and my first home was Naval Air Station Pensacola. $5.71. To all that, add dozens of world-class theme parks, a marine-rich ocean on both sides of the peninsula, and a varied bird and wildlife population, and you are spoilt for choice of which place to visit for a beach vacation. Categories Beaches in Florida, Florida Roundups, Historic Florida. Shore fish include snook, jacks, bonefish and the acrobatic tarpon, while mahi-mahi, cobia, barracuda and sailfish can be caught offshore from the several charter boats operating from the island. It is a very old town once the home of a huge nursery exporting Florida plants all over the world. I live in St. Petersburg, Florida. Meanwhile, the smooth water of Crandon Park Beach is a favorite among windsurfers. Captiva Beach has limited parking, but an enormous variety of shells for people who like to collect them. Several state parks offer scenic hiking trails, with no shortage of top-class golf courses. This is the beach, near the inlet, that earns New Smyrna its reputation as the shark-bite capitol of Florida. The town has around 12 miles of white sandy beaches and great waves. It's a little town called Hudson. Whats Nearby: A half-mile south of Nokomis Beach is North Jetty Park on Venice Inlet, a popular destination for fishers, beachgoers, kayakers, picnickers and dolphins who entertain at the inlet. Renting a surfboard isnt difficult, although aficionados will probably want to bring their own. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. It is located on Scenic Highway 30A in Walton County about 23 miles east of Destin. The Azure waters at Siesta Key Beach are mostly calm and shallow, perfect for young children. 21 Cutest Small Towns In Florida St. Augustine A visit to the nation's oldest city has lots to offer! It's on the west coast of Florida. Learn how your comment data is processed. Enjoy all beach life and would like any recommendations. The town has many beautiful canopied oak shaded streets and also has many restored pre-Civil War era homes. MADISONwas founded by cotton planters in 1838 when cotton was king in the old south. How to get there: State Road A1A, about four miles south of the Cocoa Beach pier or six miles north of Patrick Air Force Base and Satellite Beach. Hyatt Residence Club Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach, 6 Beautiful Caribbean Beaches (And Where to Stay Nearby! Fort De Soto Park, which boasts a popular county-run campground and one of the states premier beaches, is a short drive or bike ride away off the Pinellas Bayway. FLAGLER BEACH The central pier has anchored this classic Florida beach town for 80 years, rebuilt many times after violent storms. Recreation choices are endless. Click on photo for info on Milton. Click on photo for more info on Glen St. Mary. Apart from the various beaches to swim and sunbathe, there are tons of things to do here. Cedar Key is perhaps most famous for its clams, so make sure to try out a few local restaurants. All rights reserved. This article is property of FloridaRambler.com, protected by U.S. Snuggled against the shores of the Atlantic in Martin County, the Treasure Coast town was dubbed the Pineapple Capital of the World in 1895, shipping more than one million boxes of pineapples during June and July each year. $6.49. Notable residents have included Brad Pitt, Cher, and Richard Nixon. There used to be dozens of beachfront towns like this. In the center of town, Anglins fishing pier invites you for a stroll above the sea, or try your luck at pier fishing. In those days there was no Interstate Highway 10, so I took U.S. Highway 90 all the way to Jacksonville Beach and went swimming in the December ocean. Some of the places you wont want to miss are Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach. It is actually thought to be the oldest city in all of the US, having been founded in 1565 by the Spanish. The Old Town Trolley Holiday Lights Tour is a local staple, with a 60-minute tour of the island and treats and cider to match. How to get there: From Interstate 275, take the Pinellas Bayway (toll) all the way west to the pink Don CeSar Hotel and turn left. Whether you believe it or not, St. Augustine is over 450 years old! It is famous for festivals and antiques. The beaches in these towns offer an excellent view of the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico . Explore Florida's beaches and backwaters, islands and prairies, campgrounds, trails and historic sites. Each town has its own special charms. We share comprehensive travel guides and tips for anyone traveling around America. You cant do better than Fernandina Beach, a once-bustling seaport nestled on the shores of the Atlantic in Floridas northeast corner. Approximately one-fourth of the worlds sea turtles lay their eggs on Floridas East Coast where Vero is located, making for regular turtle-hatching sightings. CRESTVIEW is the county seat of Okaloosa County. Click on photo for information on Madison. Cutest The Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids. Cute shops, interesting craft markets, beach bars, eateries, and excellent vacation rentals are all close to wherever you are. Seasides buildings are a mix of Victorian, neoclassical, modern, and postmodern styles, and its precisely this combination that made it a great choice for a filming location for The Truman Show. Local attractions include Airstream Row, a food truck park where chefs work out of vintage trailers, and the Seaside Repertory Theatre, the only professional troupe on the Emerald Coast. Sponsored. So my question is can someone give me an idea of where to go that would be like Fort Myers beach? Cedar Key Flickr/John Wiesenfeld This town near North Central Florida is a delightful slice of Old Florida. You might say Coronado is off the beaten path, and youll be thankful for that. One of the most romantic cities in Florida, St. Augustine offers something for everyone. The calm, clear, and creature-filled waters along Annes Beach are perfect for snorkeling, while Long Key State Park has kayaks and canoes available to rent. On the north end of Casey Key, at the Blackburn Point bridge, enjoy dining at the Casey Key Fish House overlooking the Intracoastal. Alternatively, take to the air on a power glider and appreciate the beauty of this place from abovea truly magnificent experience. For many years it was home to Florida's only mental hospital. The actual stretch of sand known as Cocoa Beach is less crowded than many of Floridas sunbathing spots, and free parking can be found if you know where to look. If youre longing for a nature-lovers paradise that features a secluded, award-winning, white-sand Old Florida beachwith clear, emerald-colored water, an abundance of wildlife and delightful dunes, Cape San Blas has your name on it. If youre lucky, you may even spot a manatee in Sanibel Island. We assure you these coastal towns in Florida wont disappoint you! MARIANNAis one of the oldest towns in Florida. It was also a major city occupied by the Union army during the Civil War. Once youve crossed that bridge, youll find a throwback to an era of unpretentious beach towns with funky bars, T-shirt shops and ice cream parlors, as well as an evening scene with live music and street performers. Pass-A-Grille is a dead end at the bottom of St. Pete Beach. Make sure to surf over to nearby Indialantic for more down-home flavor and dont miss a visit to historic downtown Melbourne. Comprised of four islands, its a great destination for kayaking, hiking, swimming and beach combing. St. Augustine. Although streets are narrow, traffic is light and you can ride for miles on picturesque Casey Key, or hop over to the Laurel Road access for the popular Legacy Trail. This location was chosen because it was halfway between their forts in Pensacola and St. Augustine. Downtown Fort Myers Beach is compact and walkable, and it is an entertaining stroll in the evenings. The boardwalks located in Florida Beach towns offer visitors a chance to relax on the sand, take in the sun, and even grab a . St. Augustine, nestled along the northeast coast of Florida, is brimming with rich history, beautiful architecture, and fantastic cuisine. Street parking is scarce in this section of Cocoa Beach, but a new parking garage at 25 S. Orlando Ave. (Southbound A1A) adds 241 spaces. Wonderful soft golden sand beach in the middle of the town, is the perfect spot to swim, surf, or just chill, while several nature parks, such as the Sandoway and Wakodahatchee allows you to view and interact with sharks, gators, turtles, snakes, and numerous bird speciesa paradise for a nature lover. It was the first car I ever owned: a 1953 Porsche with a 1300 cc engine. The annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic sand-sculpting festival challenges artists from around the world to create a masterpiece in 24 hours. 3 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms / 11 Guests Wasted Time features a prominent position right on Draper Lake in Old Florida Beach. 5. A tiny village in South Walton County surrounded by towering dunes and coastal lakes, Grayton Beach has lots of credibility as one of Floridas best little beach towns. While it has a lovely downtown area, just to the south is an even classier community, Boca Grande. Pure magical! Nokomis Beach is on the south end of Casey Key, home to a half-dozen mom-and-pop motels on the beach, cottages and vacation rentals, a few casual restaurants and beach shops across the sand-swept street from the main public beach, and thats about it. Flagler runs right out onto the beach, where driving north on the beach takes you to the boardwalks of Smyrna Dunes Park and the jetty at Ponce Inlet, where veteran surfers make the rounds on the incoming waves. From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic side, Florida is dotted with artistic havens, natural paradises, and laid-back towns where lounging by the shore with your cold beverage of choice is the order of the day. Yearning for a seaside destination with a retro feel? While luxurious living can be found throughout Key Biscayne (golf courses and gourmet restaurants included), the destination also has numerous quaint attractions. The sand here has a high quartz content, making it powder soft, cool to the touch, and comfortable for sunbathing. A trip to Seaside is like stepping through a time machine. Travelers who prefer a more custom vacation also have numerous options for accommodations and dining. Established in 1565, St. Augustine is famously known as the "Nation's Oldest City.". There is a collection of classic old Florida towns around Englewood, a beach town on Florida's southwest coast. From Interstate 75, take the Laurel Road exit and go west to Tamiami Trail, then south to Albee Road, then west again across the Intracoastal Bridge and youre there. The Rain Barrel Artisan Village also has several notable galleries worth browsing. In the middle of the beach area, Pass-a-Grille has a cluster of restaurants, art galleries and shops surrounded by historic inns, beach houses, bungalows and small boutique hotels. On top of all this, there is a skate park and a dinosaur museum in Cocoa Beach, and if none of all this appeals to you, Cape Canaveral is a few minutes drive away, where you couldwell, spend weeks and still not see everything! Like so many small beach towns in Florida, this island has everything for everybody. Its picturesque, brick-lined streets, quaint bed and breakfast accommodations and towering moss-covered oaks serve as the setting for this historic area. Florida's lengthy coastline is home to some of the quirkiest, cutest, and quaintest beach towns in the lower 48. Heres what folks say on TripAdvisor, Places to stay: Vacation homes & cottages. Coastal cottages, tropical beach paths, a quiet town center, and some of the nicest beaches in the U.S. are a few of its' many attributes. 4,850 posts, read . The 16 Best Beach Towns in Florida To Visit! A premier destination for surfers, youll find the surf shops, art galleries, eateries and charming cottage businesses that give New Smyrna Beach its charm along Flagler Avenue in Coronado. In addition, it has beautiful condos with a sweeping view of the Gulf of Mexico. Here you can get a reasonably priced room on the beach in a two-story family-run motel with a pool and a path to golden sands dotted with palm trees. The village is in the center of a 20-mile-long (32 km) string of coastal dune lakes and adjacent to its largest, Western Lake, a rare natural phenomena found in only a handful of locations around the world, and the town is wedged against the Gulf of Mexico by Grayton Beach State Park and Point Washington State Forest. Still, Fernandina also offers some excellent beaches for couples. Bob co-founded FloridaRambler.com with fellow journalist Bonnie Gross 11 years ago. I was to be vacationing in Ft Myers Beach when Ian hit. 1. Continuing south along the Atlantic coastline, Vero Beach offers the ambiance of a small beachside town, with all the comforts and amenities of a big beach city, but without the high-rise buildings and heavy traffic. Theres even a small airport for those who travel in style. Free shipping. It is here where you will find a fun selection of vacation rentals, family-owned motels, or book a campsite or cottage in adjacent Grayton Beach State Park. followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more. It was founded in 1827. Captiva Island Inn Capitiva Island Inn is our favorite place to stay while visiting these beautiful islands. Miami, South Florida, and Keys within 100 miles, Mount Dora, Florida - Someplace Special in Hill and Lake Country. Everything you need or want is within walking distance of your motel room or cottage. About an hour away from Orlando and less than a half-hour from the Kennedy Space Center, Cocoa Beach can be a nice home base for seeing several attractions in central Florida. I drove my car across Florida to my new station. Boasting Old Florida vibes, Safety Harbor is a charming town nestled in Pinellas County next to Tampa and St. Pete. The Old Florida experience is definitely alive and well in beautifully laid back New Smyrna Beachlocated along the Atlantic Coast of Central Florida. It is the location of the grave of the Confederate Governor of Florida, John Milton, and was the site of the Battle of Marianna during the Civil War. Click on photo for info on DeFuniak Springs. You will see cattle grazing land, woods, wetlands, the Caloosahatchee River and Lake Okeechobee along the way. He is memorialized in a downtown park with a statue. The Cutest Beach Towns in Florida Neil Gladstone May 7, 2021 Miami and Orlando may be Florida favorites, but that doesn't mean they're the most scenic destinations in the Sunshine State. This affordable getaway is located on St. Joseph Peninsula in Gulf County in northwest Florida, just a few waves southwest of Port St. Joe. Hotels, bars, and restaurants are wall-to-wall here, catering for every style and palate. To the north and south, towering condos dominate the beach area. Pre-1980 MOTEL SCENE Old Town - Fanning Springs - Near Cross City FL G7000. Recreation choices are endless. By Mike Miller, Copyright 2009-2022 Florida-Back-Roads-Travel.com. Pass-a-Grille has more cute bungalows than mansions or hotels, and there are no condo towers. 07-17-2007, 09:39 AM Ladywithafan : Location: Florida. The best Florida beach towns are cozy and quaint, reflecting an old Florida ambience, and they are often more affordable than Floridas beach resort epicenters. 14/14 Miramar Beach. Sure, a few higher-rise resorts have poked their heads above the skyline, but they seem out of place. Phone: 239-395-0882 The secluded tropical islands of Captiva and Sanibel in Southwest Florida are reached by a causeway from Fort Myers. All rights reserved. Stunning sunrises and sunsets are daily occurrences here, without you having to move an inch. You can live directly on the Gulf for very little money. African-Americans were critical to the prosperity of the community. Several artificial reefs and wrecks around Captiva Island attract an abundance of marine life, drawing snorkelers and scuba divers for a unique experience, while numerous species of gamefish offer some of the finest fishing in Florida. Always festive and people are always so happy just to be here. Not precisely a snorkelling paradise, but great for kayaking. Home Florida 18 Best Beach Towns in Florida That You Will Love. Is such a thing as "old florida" beach towns that haven't been taken over by millionaires or developers? Captain Tamra Malphurs with Volusia County Beach Safety said the items were found in the 2800 block of Daytona Beach Shores. Visitors can take a turtle-walk with the Sea Turtle Preservation Society. Click on photo for more about Chipley. 50 Best Amazon Gift Ideas. Everything you need or want is within walking distance of your motel room or cottage. Parasail, bird watch, fish, stroll the beach, shell or scuba dive the old sugar barge. New Smyrna Beach would be a good choice. Charter companies offer boating or kayaking trips around the islands, where dolphins and manatee are often spotted. With the island being less than two miles wide, all the amenities are within a few minutes walk. 2. The town has many beautiful canopied oak shaded streets and also has many restored pre-Civil War era homes. There are plenty of eateries, long beaches, mangroves, and tropical forests teeming with birdlife, with two large parks alongside the ocean offering picnic and kids amusement areas, with carousel and peacock shelter. Not only does this town of 19,000 residents have excellent Atlantic Ocean views, its also positioned along the St. Lucie and Indian rivers, making it the perfect place for leisurely waterfront walks. MILTONis one of the oldest cities in Florida and was incorporated in 1844 while Florida was still a territory. Click on photo for information on Monticello. 16 Best Small Towns in Florida - Quaint Small Florida Beach Towns to Visit or Live In. The town is named for Carr McLenny, but the post office would not allow capital letters in the middle of a name. GREENVILLE is a tiny town of about 800 people that is noted for being the boyhood home of legendary musician Ray Charles. 3. Take the memory trip with me and just click on the photo for more information about each town. Despite being heavily developed, there remains more than sufficient space for nature and recreation. Not to be missed is also the Theater of the Sea, where you can view and interact with dolphins and sea lions. PENSACOLAwas 450 years old in 2009. Its hard to believe so much entertainment and recreational activities can be crammed into such a small area like Cocoa Beach, which is one of the closest beaches to Orlando. Heres what folks say on, 2022 calendar of Florida's 50 holiday boat parades, Where to celebrate the holidays in Old Florida: Best Christmas light displays, Kayaking the Econlockhatchee: Unspoiled, lovely, easy to reach, Sanford will surprise you with charm, beer, food and nearby biking and kayaking. And stay out of the water. Adults can enjoy a mug-of-suds at the Palace Saloon, Floridas oldest continuously operating bar. Click on photo for more info on Macclenny. What is special is that Casey Key is its still there, and it hasnt changed. These long stretches of beaches on the east coast are perfect for the whole family, and one of the best surfing spots found anywhere. Florida has miles of beach towns for you to discover. The pier on the main FM Beach is a popular fishing spot. Free shipping. This is the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing off the beaten path. Heres what folks have to say on TripAdvisor about Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Walking out to the beach here is a rite of passage betweentwo notoriouswatering holes Coconuts on the Beach with its sprawling outdoor deck and bikini parade, and the Beach Shack, a dive bar that favors locals. Swimming, kayaking, shell collecting (no live shells), taking long strolls, or just soaking in the sun, all in close proximity to the various eateries, beach resorts, and other accommodation joints, make Captiva Island the perfect family vacation destination. MARKS is one of Florida's oldest fishing villages. A stunning golf course on the north section of Key Biscayne is an excellent attraction, while scuba diving on Neptune Memorial Reef a few miles offshore is a most memorable experience. Later that year I was transferred to Naval Air Station Mayport on the ocean just east of Jacksonville. Reception locally is about 50/50. I'm not really into cookie cutter City-Data Forum > U.S . I was flying with Allegiant Air. 1 beach in America in 2020 by Dr. Beach. Our Facebook page has more than 124,095followers who love off the beaten path Florida: towns, tourist attractions, maps, lodging, food, festivals, scenic road trips, day trips, history, culture, nostalgia, and more. Brevard County's oldest beach community and a quintessential Old Florida beach is Melbourne Beach, located on a barrier island just a splash south of busier Cocoa Beach. If youre into fishing, bring your gear and head straight to the Cedar Key Pier, from where numerous big fish are caught regularly all year round. The village green across the street was once the front yard of a grand hotel and is now surrounded by quaint cafes, unique boutiques, gift shops, antique stores, City Hall and side streets that take you further down memory lane, where many buildings date to the . This island town also boasts a wealth of bird and marine life. Fans of the sitcom I Dream of Jeannie may remember the location, as it was often mentioned in the series. Grayton Beach is a genuine old Florida beach town that has been welcoming tourists for generations. Whats Nearby? For those who prefer the gentle massage of an ocean breeze to a heart-pounding spin on Space Mountain, this list of adorable beach towns may make you consider a new vacation spot. Editors Note: Some links in this article go to Florida Rambler stories, VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner), Hotels.com or TripAdvisor reviews. Nearby, within a few blocks, youll find an eclectic selection of beach shops and sidewalk cafes. Certainly one of the most conveniently situated Florida beach towns. How to get there: Just off Scenic Highway 30a, a loop road running parallel U.S. 98. This quaint, small town a mere 30-minute drive from Jacksonville International Airport is famed for its unpretentious old time Floridamood, miles of beautiful, pristine beaches and charming, historic downtown. Confirm details when planning a trip, especially to areas hard hit by hurricanes. Fernandina Beach: Both Visit Florida and Florida for Boomers had this destination on their "old Florida" lists. Several fascinating museums, galleries, and theatres take care of the cultural vultures. Key West is truly one of the best places for Christmas in South Florida. Stunning scenery, a mild climate, countless beautiful beaches stretching over an 8,400-mile shoreline, and the easy living, laid back lifestyle of dozens of the beach towns in Florida are just a few reasons why millions of visitors flock here every year. Pricing for South Seas Island Resort. The Historic Sponge Docks with fantastic Greek eateries is testimony to the early Greek sponge divers who settled here and have left their mark. If you wish to leave dry land, book a deep-sea fishing tour or a sunset cruise. You may also want to time your trip to coincide with one of the food festivals hosted throughout the year, including the New Smyrna Beach Food Festival (in April), the Cinco de Mayo celebration (in May), the Shrimp & Seafood Festival (in August), or Jazz Fest (in September). DEFUNIAK SPRINGSis built around Lake DeFuniak, an almost perfectly circular body of water. Anna Maria Island Forget crowds, high-rises and traffic delays, but remember your sunscreen and your smile when you splash over to Anna Maria Island. The town was once the richest per capita town in the USA because of its "Coca Cola" millionaires. Surrounded completely by crystal blue water, the entire area is a snorkelers and scuba divers paradise. Locals also pride themselves on the health of the ecosystem here, which makes it possible to see dolphins swimming through the clear blue waves just off the coast. As with all small beach towns in Florida, various lodging joins and resorts offer excellent accommodation with plenty of shops and eateries. Founder Robert S. Davis inherited the land in 1978 and turned it into a community resembling an old beach town. | Contact Us. Already famous for the iconic Daytona 500 NASCAR Race, held annually in February, Daytona Beach is another jewel along Floridas Atlantic coast that is perfect for a family vacation. Further south but still off the west coast of Florida, Cedar Key is a real gem off the beaten path, perfect for a family getaway. For grand views of Cocoa Beach, take a walk along the famous Pier, jutting 800 feet into the Atlantic, passing boutiques, shops and eateries serving mouth-watering local specialties. Start at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine - the nation's oldest continuously occupied city - to discover the very cradle of the United States, the 1565 birthplace of Colonial European America. Try not to confuse Siesta Key the barrier island off Floridas southwest coast with the MTV reality show of the same name. The Keylime Bistro at Captiva Island Inn serves dishes like crab cake Benedict and, as expected, Key lime pie. As you work your way to the beach on the network of boardwalks, make a note of the pavilion at Nokomis Beach it was built in the 1950s, designed by Jack West, of the renowned Sarasota School of Architecture. If I still had it today, I'd be rich because this model has become a collector's item. Local food and shopping caters to upscale tastes (numerous millionaires vacation here), so be prepared to splurge. Heres what folks say about Nokomis Beach on TripAdvisor. Nearby Grayton Beach State Park is considered one of the best beaches in the country. And then we have the southernmost point of continental America. With historic buildings downtown, and homes and business built on stilts along the waterfront. Heres what folks say about Pass-A-Grille on TripAdvisor, Places to Stay: Vacation homes & cottages. Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. TALLAHASSEEwas the site of the Spanish-built Mission San Luis de Apalachee. I should add, they just broke ground on a 6 acre Margaritaville resort that will add some commercial aspect to the area. Various hotels and eateries dot the entire set of islands. To us, they are all No. Several hotels and rentals offer excellent accommodation, while a few restaurants serve a wide array of dishes. This is actually the historic town center, left to stand on its own, a relatively tourist-free beach town atmosphere despite a small cluster of beach bars, eclectic restaurants, art galleries and beach shops surrounded by mom-and-pop motels and a half-dozen surfing schools, including Surfet for women and NexGen for kids. The marshy northern bay-facing side is home to numerous wading birds and angling fish. Known for its unique style of pavilions and pastel-colored houses, Seaside retains the ambiance and charm of old Florida while still offering the modern amenities we all demand from a vacation destination. ANNA MARIA ISLAND Located at the southern entrance to Tampa Bay, Anna Maria Island (AMI) is one of the most-quaint beach towns I've ever seen. Miles of pristine beaches that cater for all water activities, with numerous golf courses, eateries, shops and lodging styles, most of which being on the waters edge. We take our lawn chairs for the free concert on Friday nights in "Times Square" and usually eat a gyro at Plaka. BONIFAY is a town of about 3,000 people that was originally a station on the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. Youll never forget this sunset. Like Venice Beach to the south, Nokomis Beach is popular with shark-tooth hunters. It's a 377 mile stretch through Old Florida. A group of small islands offers beautiful scenery, plenty of quaint bars with live music, and shops and restaurants serving delicious local seafood. Walking out to the beach here is a rite of passage betweentwo notoriouswatering holes , promenade of funky seafood restaurants that line the south bank of port, next to the cruise terminal. The 50 Best Historic Towns in Florida. This quaint town was founded in 1849 and wiped out by hurricane in 1896. White sandy beaches await for you. Copyright 2021-2022 - Roaming the USA -- All rights reserved | Made with love in the , 18 Best Beach Towns in Florida That You Will Love. Explore via the free trolley service, or rent a bike, canoe, kayak or boat. These laid-back Old Florida beach options lack crowds and high-rises and are rich in old-time charm. From State Road 44, go left on Peninsula Avenue after crossing the South Causeway bridge past Bouchelle Island. Most links are courtesy links for the benefit of readers and earn nothing. Youll have to steer south onto Gulf Boulevard and past the proudly pink and historic Don CeSar Hotel. Each town has its own special charms. Young children are well-catered for by the several parks almost on the waters edge, while the State Park offers an excellent nature trail through island, estuary and mangrove habitat. Bailey Brinson House, Monticello 2. A local ordinance prevents buildings from being taller than four stories, helping the destination maintain its small-town vibe. The Cocoa Beach everybody knows, the touristy section where high-rise hotels look down on the pier and the legendary Ron Jon Surf Shop, and then there is the area known by locals as Coconuts Beach, about four miles south on State Road A1A. History buffs will have a blast with all there is to learn about the Isle of 8 Flags in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. One of the prettiest Florida beach towns, Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island is simply a treasure to behold. A laid-back beach town with a healthyand well-lovedpopulation of vintage ice cream parlors, Pass-A-Grille Beach is an island town located at the southernmost end of St. Pete Beach. Various types of lodging are available, making this one of the most idyllic beach towns in Florida for a truly relaxing vacation. Or maybe youd prefer the more boisterous Aruba Beach Cafe, just across Anglins Plaza, the towns signature gathering place. Hows that for beach-town credentials? Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, Holmes County, Florida, Historic Home on 3rd Street, Chipley, Florida. Outdoor activities such as surfing, sailing, fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking and stand-up paddle-boarding command center stage in this nature-lovers paradise. Unlike other crowded stretches found in Florida, Veros white-sand beaches often have more birds than humans. Library Beach, located on a mangrove channel, features playground equipment and few crowds, making it a favorite stop for families. The town has done a great job preserving its history and it offers a clear look into what Old Florida was like. Heres what folks say about Fort Myers Beach on TripAdvisor. Visitors love the natural beauty and slower pace of this town. Click on photo for info on Jacksonville. I said its quiet, not boring! Click on photo for info on Marianna. Tarpon Springs is a charming and friendly beach town in Florida, small in size but rich in culture, history, and serene natural beauty. Towns you go through include Fort Myers, Tice, Alva, Fort Denaud, LaBelle, Clewiston, Lake Harbor, Belle Glade, Wellington, West Palm Beach, and Palm Beach. Heres what folks say on TripAdvisor about things to do in Cocoa Beach. A wide variety of fish makes Key Biscayne a popular destination for shore and offshore anglers. Editors note: Some services, amenities, and events at these locations may be altered/halted due to the pandemic. Locomotives used to stop in Stuart to haul away bushels of chrysanthemums and pineapples. Instagram. LEE is a small settlement of less than 400 people near Suwannee River State Park. If sunshine and miles of soft, white, sandy beaches and an aquamarine ocean are your thing, then Anna Maria Island is the place for you. Yes, the series is filmed in Florida, but Siesta Key has loads of family-friendly fun. Click on photo for info on Pensacola. Please check it out and if you like it, we would appreciate a "like" from you. Click on photo for info on Live Oak. Several parks offer great hiking, biking, camping, and beautiful scenery with beach access, like the Grayton Beach State Park. MONTICELLO is one of the oldest Florida towns and was founded in 1827 before Florida was even a state. Favorite restaurants include the beachfront Paradise Inn, the Hurricane Seafood Restaurants rooftop bar and dining on the second floor balcony at Brass Monkey. Once across that causeway, you are in a quieter place that will take you back in time to Old Florida. The 170-year-old Cape Florida Lighthouse is a local monument and the Heritage Trail has mesmerizing water views and a prehistoric fossil reef. This is another narrow strip of paradise, with a beach stretching for five miles, with the southern facing side being lapped by the bluest waters youll ever see. Florida Trails: Biking, Hiking and Paddling, Certified Visitor Information Centers North Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Northeast Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central West Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central East Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southwest Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southeast Florida, Florida Travel and Vacation Guides - United States, Exchange Rates, Conversions, And Processes. It is also the home of two major universities, Florida A&M and Florida State. It was old and cheap when I bought it. St. Augustine is also one of the most beautiful old towns in Florida. Or rather an old fishing village. As with almost all the small beach towns in Florida, sunsets from here are spectacular. But once you cross the Matanzas Pass Bridge from San Carlos Island, you enter a new world, a mix of the old and the new that somehow retains a small beach village atmosphere at the Gulfside edge of an otherwise sprawling suburbia. Approximately 20 minutes south of downtown Miami, Key Biscayne has had a development boom since the causeway connecting it to the mainland opened in the middle of the 20th century. Dont let a bad burn ruin your Florida vacation. Yet the beach towers suddenly stop, revealing a pocketof low-rise mom-and-pop motels suddenly emerging along the beach, anchored by a colorful little village of traditional beach shops, galleries and cafes unique to the urbanized Southeast Florida coast. 1. Yet another idyllic island with brilliant beaches with clear blue-green waters, ideal for sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling, with many public access points. US-90 crosses Florida from Pensacola on the west to Jacksonville Beach on the east coast. The Vero Beach Museum of Art has an impressive permanent collection, including works made from glass, bronze, and chopsticks. St. Augustine is one of the most beautiful old towns in Florida that sees large numbers of tourists every year. Area adventures include horseback riding on the beach, surfing, fishing and even skydiving. Re-publication without written permission is against the law. Bob Rountree is a retired journalist, beach bum, angler and camper who has explored Florida for decades. Jax is a major port on the deep water lower St. Johns River only 20 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean. Popular Florida beach towns of Cocoa Beach, Daytona, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami Beach, and St. Petersburg all have boardwalks. Whats Nearby? Click on photo for more information on Crestview. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Some people confuse this park with DeLeon Springs State Park near DeLand. Vero Beach packs in a good amount of culture and wildlife into 13 square miles. Learn more in ourCookie Noticeand ourPrivacy Policy. The most affordable Florida beach towns are: Titusville Sebastian Port Charlotte Fort Pierce Daytona Beach Venice Palm Bay Melbourne Beach Port Orange Tarpon Springs Finding an affordable beach town does not mean you have to give up the beauty and ambiance that the state of Florida is known for. Save these ideas for when its safe to travel again, and always follow all COVID-19 restrictions, rules, and safety regulations both at your destination and upon returning home. It's the scene pictured with the blurb about Pass-a-Grille. The Historical Museum showcases the rich local history and rare Civil War artifacts. How to get there: From Interstate 95, take the Commercial Boulevard exit straight to the beach, and youre there. Amelia is also considered one of the cutest beach "towns" in Florida! Offering miles of nature trails, picnic spots, dozens of fishing piers, and boat ramps to explore the wildlife and view this magnificent lagoon. Gulfport . The Cultural Center and Safford House Museum showcases the towns historical background, while the St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, with its Grecian marble altar, ornate wall and ceiling frescos and colorful stained glass windows, is not to be missed. Apart from all the usual beach activities, you could also go on a nature trail, book a snorkeling or dolphin-spotting ride, fishing charter, Jet Ski, kayak, or learn to parasail. VISIT FLORIDA is a service mark of the Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation, d/b/a VISIT FLORIDA, registered in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. RPPC Fanning Springs FL Highway Bridge Over Suwannee River Old Vtg Postcard View. St. Augustine. Hey, we're thrilled that you're here! Fishing off the shore or kayak among the mangroves is pretty productive for tarpon and snook as well as various other fish caught from charter boats. Sea Oats at Grayton Beach ANNA MARIA, Population 968 Anna Maria is a small residential town on the north end of Anna Maria Island. HERRING FISHING, DELAWARE CITY, DE 1908 POSTMARK. Reaching the very end of the highway, Key West is crammed with so many fascinating features and attractions. Situated on an estuary on the Atlantic Ocean, it offers miles of secluded beaches and estuarine tidal marshes, teeming with sea and birdlife as well as wild horses found on Cumberland Island. Various parks offer fun activities for people of all ages. Drive south on A1A to Fort Lauderdales famous Strip to gawk. The towns growth took off in the 1960s along with the expansion of Americas space program. Just arrive hungry! I live in an old beach town. Two precautions here: When you get to the jetty, dont park or turn around in soft sand. The Paradise Grille there wasn't mentioned but it is the center piece of town with sunset gatherings and live music; all outdoor seating with a fantastic panoramic view right on the Gulf and easy beach access. LAKE CITYhad a major role in Florida's Civil War involvement. Swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in open water or the estuary, while beachcombing for shells and shark teeth keeps the kids entertained for hours. ), The 15 Best Adults-Only All-Inclusives on the Beach, 6 Caribbean Islands (Generally) Not Hit by Hurricanes, The Ultimate Packing List for a Beach Getaway, Wear Your Birthday Suit: 10 Hotels Where You Can Show EVERYTHING, Best Destinations for Adult-Only Vacations, 7 Signs Youre Ready to Visit a Nude Resort. With 3 miles of unspoiled Gulf Coast, Cedar Key is the second oldest town in Florida, and a true hidden gem of Florida. While its no longer a farming community, Stuart still has small-town charm that can be found in its B&Bs, sidewalk cafes, and art galleries. Theres also picturesque waterfront scenery to be enjoyed here. The shore-facing side of the island is home to the JN Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you could embark on a sunset cruise or kayak, viewing dolphins, pelicans, herons, and countless other bird species. Places to Stay: Vacation Homes & Cottages. 1. How to get there: Nokomis is just north of Venice. As the East Coasts unofficial surf capital, Cocoa Beach takes boarding pretty seriously. All in all, Delray Beach is a hidden gem that rates highly among all other beach towns in Florida. This beachside village, historically known as Coronado before being incorporated into its mainland parent, is bypassed by the all main highways, U.S. 1, State Road 44, and the iconic A1A. JACKSONVILLEis the major city in Northeast Florida and has a vibrant economy with both heavy industry and insurance playing an important role. On the tip of the Key, the Fort Zachary Taylor State Park features a pre-Civil War Fortress, a beach, and a nature trail. Fish, scallop, horseback ride on the beach, explore pristine St. Joseph Bay via kayak or canoe, and make sure to feast at Provisions, a hidden gem in Port St. Joe that will leave your tummy smiling. Great write up on my home - Fort Myers Beach. Moving on the south-bound Overseas Highway, which must be the closest thing to the Stairway to Heaven, we come to a village community encompassing six Florida Keys. Whats Nearby: Six miles south of Flagler Avenue is the north entrance to Canaveral National Seashore and tiny Bethune Beach, which is steeped in Black history and home to JBs Fish Camp. Like any worthy beach town, Pass-A-Grille is hard to find unless you are looking for it. One of the most picturesque Old Florida towns: Historic Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island. Click on photo for info on Chattahoochee. One of the prettiest Florida beach towns, Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island is simply a treasure to behold. Located in Floridas northwestern Panhandle, Seaside is closer to Alabama and Georgia than Orlando, and its culture is modeled after genteel, small-town Southern life. At the foot of the pier, I have often enjoyed breakfast or lunch with out-of-town guests on the patio of Anglins Beach Cafe, a light breeze brushing past while we enjoyed the ocean view. Copyright Law. Private beach in Captiva - Steve Beaudet House in Captiva - Steve Beaudet Briny Breezes Driving through this seaside community of mobile homes is like driving back to the 1950s. Yearning for a stretch of sand to call your own? COTTONDALE is a crossroads village of about 1,000 people where US-90 crosses US-231. We fell in love with the Paradise Grille too! These are really great recommendations with my personal favorite being Pass-a-Grille Beach. It was badly damaged by Hurricane Michael in 2018. Very walkable with so many restaurants and bars to choose from. Visit Fernandina Beach's Old Town district, check out the historic shops, and enjoy some of the island's best food at trendy restaurants that line the streets. Be sure to make your beach town experience more special and shop at local markets, eat delicious seafood in family-owned venues, and enjoy all the Gulf Coast (and East Coast) have to offer. The Bubble Room is packed with toys from the the 1930s and 40s and has a menu with Gulf shrimp (prepared numerous ways), sticky buns, and orange crunch cake. Nestled at the southern mouth of Tampa Bay, this laid-back, old time Florida family-friendly destination is home to the tiny towns of Bradenton Beach, Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. Today, it is the largest sea turtle nesting area in the Western Hemisphere. This small island and its stately Gasparilla Inn is where old money goes to relax and play. You should also read this: Five Florida islands to discover while Sanibel rebuilds. Great island views can be seen on the west side while the east-facing side is a labyrinth of fascinating mangrove-fringed tidal creeks. The town has an interesting historic district with well preserved older buildings. Pricing for Hyatt Residence Club Sarasota, Siesta Key Beach. The Ultimate 10-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary, 17 Things to Do on Anna Maria Island, Florida. South of Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach is known as a hip surf haven. Thanks Karen. Hundreds of eateries and bars close by, offer great food choices and night entertainmentall in all, a fantastic beach town in Florida. Casey Key is not all that special a pretty beach with low-key development. Various hotels and rentals offer excellent accommodation, two steps from the beach, while fresh locally-caught shrimp and other seafood are served by the available eateries. Click on photo for information about Greenville and Ray Charles. Time has stood still for this small beach town in Florida. St. Augustine tops our list as the best old town in Florida for both visitors and for people looking to resettle. The town was the headquarters of the Southern Chautauqua and has many Victorian era homes in the downtown historic district. Click on photo for info on Tallahassee. Grayton Beach State Park, which wraps around this beachside jewel, was named No. Almost all of Key Biscaynes sand boxes offer relaxing alternatives to Miamis party pits. Several tours are organized around the local turtle population. No adventure is complete without finding a scenic paddle trail or unpaved road to nowhere. Founded in 1565 it wasn't until Henry Flagler transformed the city into a bustling hub in the late 1800s with his railroad. Great fishing for tarpon, king mackerel, snook, grouper, and redfish can be had from the shore or kayaks and from the various charter boats. Drive west on Commercial Blvd., past I-95, to the brand new Lockhart Stadium for major league soccer (in season). When the first European set foot in Florida in 1513 Ponce de Leon he landed near this Space Coast gem. In fact, Florida is home to numerous charming beach towns where you won't find waves of tourists. The Vero Beach Opera Guild regularly stages performances in buildings around town, and movie buffs should schedule their trip for June during the Vero Beach Wine & Film Festival. Or kayak on the shore-facing side through mangrove-fringed creeks, viewing dolphins, manatees, and countless bird species in the region surrounding Cocoa Beach. What a wonderful historic town for a beach vacation! Here are 12 of the best places to visit in Old Florida: 1. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. MACCLENNY is a town of more than 6,000 that was once the center of a booming lumber. Bring a bicycle. These towns have changed, of course, but not as much as most towns in Central and South Florida. A trip to Jensen Beach should prove fruitful! VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. - UPDATE: Officials believe the mystery items are . PONCE DE LEON is a village of about 600 people. MONTICELLOis one of the oldest Florida towns and was founded in 1827 before Florida was even a state. If you can tear yourself away from the water, the History of Diving Museum is a must-see. About 30 miles south of Siesta Key is the small village of Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island. Youll spot nary a parking meter or a high-rise there, but a boatload of beautiful, wide beaches, charming cottages in Caribbean colors, picket fences, art galleries, quirky locally-owned shops and quaint sidewalk cafes. Great views of the island can be had from the top of the lighthouse, and they have even managed to squeeze in a golf course on this tiny island. St. Augstine is one of the most historic beach towns in Florida. A collection of six islands, Islamorada is a revered spot for sport fishers. Mount Dora is a treasure among the rolling hills and lakes north of Orlando. Miles of open beaches for all water activities, while the Halifax River is a gem all on its own. Better yet, get a room at a nearby mom-and-pop motel and walk wherever you need to go. $2.95. Plenty of sandy beaches and bayous to swim, kayak, fish, see dolphins and manatees, as well as miles of nature trails, playgrounds and picnic areas are provided in several scenic nature parks. Developers haven't taken it over yet. Pricing for Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront. Other local traditions include a weekly drum circle that forms on Siesta Key Beach every Sunday an hour before sunset. At sunset on a Sunday, bring some drinks and snacks and gather at the Siesta Key Drum Circle for a unique experience of beach, song, and dance to set your senses alight. CHIPLEY is a medium sized town of about 3,600 and is named for William Chipley, who was with the Louisville & Nashville Railroad and a Florida State Senator. Be sure to pack along your favorite! The core of the town is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a block wide, with a broad beach on the Gulf side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. Although this location can be seen as a little more upscale and known for its golfing, it is still home to the oldest bar in Florida - the Palace Saloon. There are many other towns along U.S.-90 that could be mentioned, but Lee gets credit for their town limit sign. There is Fort Myers, and then there is Fort Myers Beach. Here are two stories you might like, Frank: Barefoot on Hutchinson Island and Historic Fort Pierce. 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