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• The Best Small Towns in Florida's Emerald Coast for a Weekend Retreat

Spanning 100 miles of beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches, Florida 's Emerald Coast is known for its crystal clear emerald water and beautiful weather. The upper Gulf shoreline is full of soft, white sand beaches and is colloquially referred to as Florida's Sugar Coast. The coast is bustling with water sports such as snorkeling and fishing, outdoor dining and shows, as well as annual events such as the Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival in Fort Walton Beach . There are numerous communities of varying sizes and character, offering a diverse set of vacations for those looking to escape to the Emerald Coast for the weekend.

Just a short drive from the Grayson Beach State Park, Point Washington Wildlife State Forest, and the Walton Dunes Beach Access area, Seaside is a small Emerald Coast town surrounded by protected nature. Seaside prides itself on its routine visitors, attracting tourists from around the globe and inviting them back year after year. Directly on the sea, Seaside is best known for its outdoor recreation and infrastructure, with CC Boone offering bonfires directly on the beach. The Court is Seaside's boutique hotel, offering views of its lusciously maintained gardens, the downtown, and the beach. The Repertory Theatre and Seaside Amphitheatre host live shows and events year-round, and the downtown is known for its boutique shops, such as Cabana by the Seaside Style and the Shops of Ruskin.

Mexico Beach

A small community known for its "beach living without the crowds," Mexico Beach is one of the Emerald Coast's best spots for ecotourism. Within a short drive, there are 57 distinct ecosystem types ranging from white-sand beaches to savannas and freshwater springs. Explorers can spend the day paddling Wakulla Springs or Dead Lake, both within a short drive from town. The nearby St. George Island and Econfina River State Parks offer extensive protected hiking trails with starkly different terrain. The Driftwood Inn, El Governor Beachfront Resort, and Gulf View Motel each offer direct beach access and views for a weekend stay. Mexico Beach is also known for its recreational fishing, with people regularly catching King Mackerel, Mahi-Mahi, and Pompano, among countless other species. Alleykat Bay Charters, Charisma Charters, and Charter Boat Miss Mary all offer fishing tours for groups of different sizes and experience levels.

Bluewater Bay Marina in Niceville, Florida.

On the shores of Choctawatchee Bay, this small town lives up to its name, as it is regularly regarded as one of the safest cities in the United States. Seeing an average of 343 days of sunshine each year with average gulf water temperatures sitting around 80 degrees, there is never a bad time to visit Niceville. Nearby, the Tarkiln Bayou Preserve and Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Parks offer excellent outdoor recreation for both day and overnight adventures. There are a few hotels in town, including a Holiday Inn and Best Western, that offer affordable and comfortable stays while visiting Niceville. The Eglin Gold Course services the area, offering beautifully maintained recreational facilities on Plew Lake.

Aerial beach view at the Watercolor Community Club in Watercolor, Florida. Editorial credit: Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock.com

A resort town on the Emerald Coast, WaterColor is one of the best spots to sit back and relax on a beach vacation. WaterColor sits on Western Lake, a coastal dune lake where visitors can rent kayaks and paddle boards to explore the water and shoreline. One of the best places to stay is the WaterColor Inn & Resort, with rooms overlooking the shore. WaterColor is known for its blend of small-town charm with upscale luxuries and comfort. Within the resort, the WaterColor Beach Club has three pools, resort dining, cabana rentals, and private beach access. Some of the best spots to visit in town include the famous Old Florida Outfitters, The Wine Bar, and Fish out of Water restaurant.

Aerial view of the beach in Navarre, Florida.

Home to world-famous white-sand beaches on Santa Rosa Island, Navarre is an excellent weekend vacation spot for the whole family. Within a short drive are the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, Gulf Breeze Zoo, and the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. Navarre Beach has excellent beaches and water for a day on the sand or floating in the water. Navarre is also primely situated for day trips out on the water for snorkeling, fishing, and diving. A resort town full of excellent places to stay, there is no shortage of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from. The Caribbean Beach Resort by ResortQuest, Navarre Beach Camping Resort, and Beach Colony Resort on Navarre Beach are all primely situated on the beach, but each offers a different vacation feel depending on your group's vacation style.

Lone fisherman at Basin Bayou in Freeport, Florida.

Within an hour's drive of four airports, Freeport is an excellently located community along the Emerald Coast neighboring the Eglin Air Force Base. Also situated on Choctawatchee Bay, Freeport has ideal water and waterfront activities, allowing tourists to enjoy both play and rest during their vacation. The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center is a 28,000-square-foot conservation center full of exhibits and classes for all ages eager to learn about the region's wildlife. Some of the best places to eat in town include Nick's Seafood Restaurant and Di'lishi Yogurt, Coffee & Smoothies. A visit to Freeport is incomplete without a stay at the Riverwalk Landing, which offers both cottage rentals and RV campsites surrounded by nature.

Apalachicola

Aerial view of Apalachicola, a small coastal community on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida's Panhandle.

With several cultural centers to visit, such as the Raney House Museum, Orman House Historic State Park, and the John Gorrie Museum State Park, along with its historic downtown, Apalachicola has more than a weekend's worth of activities to explore. Commonly referred to as "Oyster Town," this seaside community is known for its fresh seafood and excellent dining at spots such as Half Shell Dockside and The Station Raw Bar. Sitting on the Apalachicola Bay and River, there is endless fishing, boating, paddling, and hiking space to explore from town. Some of the best stays in town include the Gibson Inn and Water Street Hotel & Marina.

Panama City

View of Front Beach Road at sunrise in Panama City Beach, Florida.

One of the more famous small communities along the Emerald Coast, Panama City is full of outdoor and indoor attractions for all members of the family. From the ZooWorld Zoological Park, Sea Dragon Pirate Cruise, and Coconut Creek Family Park, there are more family activities to explore than possible in a single weekend. With 27 miles of world-class beaches, Panama City is also an ideal spot to spend a weekend relaxing and soaking up the sea and sun. For those looking for a romantic getaway, consider a visit to the Serenity Spa, Tootside's Orchid Lounge, or a sunset cruise through the Grand Lagoon run by Island Time Sailing Cruises. With everything from beach houses to campgrounds and extensive resorts, there is no shortage of options for lodging in town. Consider a luxurious stay at St. Andrews Bay or a family-focused outdoor retreat at Camp Helen.

Discover Emerald Coast's Charms

With its world-class beaches, nature reserves, and parks, and close proximity to airports, as well as major Floridian cities such as Tallahassee, the communities along the Emerald Coast are excellent weekend trips for all sorts of tourists. From fast-paced and thrill-seeking outdoor adventures to quiet nights alone on the beach to days spent shopping and dining in the sunlight, there is something for every kind of tourist along this segment of Florida's shores. Given its relatively small geographic area, the Coast makes for an ideal car-based vacation where you can pick up and explore surrounding communities and nature parks to explore the diversity of this region's ecology, culture, and heritage.

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21 Cutest Small Towns In Florida

February 8, 2021 //  by  Florida Trippers

You’ve been to Tampa, Orlando, and even the State Capitol, but how many of these small towns in Florida have you visited? We bet there are a few towns here that even the locals haven’t heard of before!

Thanks to Florida’s location in the country, it has one of the most diverse populations of all the states. The Sunshine State’s sunny skies, clear waters, and warm weather draw in people from all walks of life. Many tourists eventually make Florida their permanent home.

When you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of big cities, there are a lot of places where you can recharge their batteries. Many small towns in Florida are quaint, homey, and welcoming.

Keep in mind that small doesn’t mean dull. Many of these small towns in Florida are beloved for their niche communities. You can find fishing havens, thrift shop meccas, and even Scottish villages!

We guarantee that a trip to each of these small towns in Florida will provide you with unique memories from a new adventure. So whether you’re in need of an escape or just looking for something new, check out the best small towns in Florida!

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If so, we would love to keep in touch! We enjoy seeing photos and comments about your experiences in Florida! You can follow us on Instagram and we will repost your photos on our feed and comment too! Just tag us at @floridatrippers and hashtag #floridatrippers. We can’t wait to see your travels!

St. Augustine

A visit to the nation’s oldest city has lots to offer! Founded in 1565 it wasn’t until Henry Flagler transformed the city into a bustling hub in the late 1800s with his railroad.

One of the most romantic cities in Florida, St. Augustine offers something for everyone. Between castles , beaches, museums , national parks , ghost tours, distilleries, restaurants , and wineries there is a ton of things to do in Saint Augustine .

If you head just to the north, you’ll find a great beach for surfing at Jacksonville Beach. Head to the shoreline to see the St. Augustine Lighthouse , featured many times in television and film.

Plan your trip well, and you can even get spooky as fall in Florida approaches! With a reputation as one of the most haunted towns, you can take ghost tours in St. Augustine that will chill you to your core! Where To Stay in St, Augustine : Sandy Feet Retreat : Check Rates on VRBO

Safety Harbor

On the west shore of Tampa Bay, you’ll find a small community in Pinellas County tucked away. Less than 5,000 people live here, and the town is only five square miles.

The downtown stretch of Main Street is lined with trees, family restaurants , small shops, and boutiques. This small-town feel is absent in the heavily urbanized Pinellas County, making Safety Harbor a cultural gem.

Main Street dead-ends into the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa , which offers affordable treatments using Florida’s natural springs for the family. The town is so charming, Lifetime even filmed one of their movies in Safety Harbor!

Make sure to visit Whimzeyland, a small home that uses bowling balls, mosaics, and glass bottles to create a place where color explodes non-stop. This is a private residence, and while visitors are welcome to explore the grounds, please be respectful.

Where To Stay in Saftey Harbor : Casa La Cala: Check Rates on VRBO

Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs , Florida is one of Tampa Bay’s best-kept secrets and cutest small towns in Florida. Rich in history, Greek culture, great food, and natural beauty, this little coastal town is a great destination for the whole family.

Due to the abundance of Greek Immigrants brought by the sponging industry, a large number of the residents in Tarpon Springs come from greek heritage. Depending on when you visit you may find yourself walking through a massive Greek festival or in the middle of the Epiphany, a traditional Greek celebration out on the bayou. 

The Sponge Dock in Tarpon Springs is a must-visit. Here you will find the largest variety of natural sponges, so fresh you can still smell the salt and sea all over them. 

In addition to great antiquing, vintage shops, specialty markets, and boutiques, you can visit the Safford House Museum. Filled with original furnishings and old Safford family possessions, it remains a prime example of late 19th century Victorian architecture.

Where To Stay in Tarpon Springs : Waterfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Just a 30-minute drive from  Tampa  and an hour away from  Orlando , a trip to Dade City is a perfect  day trip  or quiet  weekend getaway . One of the best small towns in Florida, you’ll always find something to do in Dade City .

Dade City is a quiet town full of history, native Florida wildlife , and culture. The rolling hills and pasture lands provide a beautiful backdrop for a dense suburban lifestyle in Pasco County.

Downtown is full of incredible antiquing and thrifting, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Because there are plenty of mom and pop diners and cafes to choose from, you’ll always have a good homecooked meal. Life is so quiet here, motorists actually slow down for pedestrians!

Dade City is full of rich Florida history. Reenactment festivals depict battles from the Second Seminole War and the Civil War. Settled in the early 1900s by railroad workers, you can learn about Pioneer Life at the Pioneer Village and the Dade City Heritage Museum.

Where To Stay in Dade City : Tiki Paradise: Check Rates on VRBO

Winter Park

The next time you’re near Orlando , don’t hesitate to visit Winter Park. Originally a resort for business magnates, don’t let its now-sleepy facade fool you. Winter Park is one of the best small towns in Florida.

The main drag, Park Avenue is lined with civic buildings, retail, art galleries, and a private liberal arts college, Rollins College. There’s also museums, a park, a train station, a golf course country club, a historic cemetery, and a beach and boat launch!

Peacocks often roam around in neighborhoods, especially throughout the community of Windsong. You can find them in the beautiful, lush parks. Former President Chester A. Arthur even called Winter Park “the prettiest place in Florida [he had] seen.”

Plan your visit and you can be in Winter Park for their annual Sidewalk Art Festival ! Thousands of people travel from all over the world to apply to compete, and only 225 are selected per year. With that many applicants, you know you’re going to see some amazing chalk art!

Where To Stay in Winter Park : Casa Aloma: Check Rates on VRBO

Just a 35-minute drive northwest of Orlando , Mount Dora is a sleepy town known for its antique shops and the  best festivals in Florida . Small enough to explore in a day, but interesting enough to lure visitors back, this is a great place to explore on a date night .

As you walk through Mount Dora, you’ll notice the historic buildings downtown dotted with palm trees on the streets. Filled with boutique shops, walking tours, and art galleries, there is so much to explore.

The highlight of the town is Renninger’s Vintage Antique Center & Farmer’s Flea Market. Over 117 acres of scenic, rolling land are filled with vendor booths selling everything from produce, meats, cheeses, and a variety crafts.

On the second Friday of every month, catch the Mount Dora Art Splash. Walk through an outdoor art gallery, where the quirkiness of the town really shines. The shops stay open late and there is live music to enjoy!

The crown jewel of the town is Lake Dora. 6 miles long and a third of a mile wide, enjoy the sunset on the Palm Island Park Boardwalk. Take a tour of the 35-foot tall working lighthouse! There are not many freshwater lighthouses in the state, so take advantage!

Mount Dora is said to be magical, and once you visit, you’ll understand why. Extend your stay with a  charming Airbnb  and take in the small town in all of its allure.

Where To Stay in Mount Dora : The Carlton: Check Rates on VRBO

Adjacent to Cape Coral , you can find one of the most quaint small towns in Florida! Pronounced “mat-la-SHAY,” Matlacha means “big warrior” in Seminole!

A quirky, historic fishing village, Matlacha feels like Key West , minus the crowds. The colorful charm and laidback vibe capture the essence of turn-of-the-century Florida. On a walking tour, you’ll see pink palm trees, dolphins painted with polka dots, and one-of-a-kind homes painted in neon colors.

When you visit Matlacha Pass, you’ll always see an angler reeling in a big catch! Known as the “World’s Fishing-est Bridge,” a tidal current runs beneath that sweeps in snook, redfish, and tarpon.

After, you have to pass by the “Doll Lady’s” House. She decorates her front yard with her collection of “junktiques.” You’ll be charmed by hobby horses and rag dolls sitting in salvaged garden chairs.

Matlacha Village is also home to renowned international artist Leoma Lovegrove. Her eclectic, colorful artistic medium has influenced the entire village. In her gallery, you’ll find her vibrant paintings displayed throughout a whimsical garden.

Where To Stay in Matlacha : Waterfront Getaway: Check Rates on VRBO

Not only is Webster one of the best small towns in Florida, it’s also one of the best places to live in Florida! In Sumter County, the town boasts a population of only 726 residents!

Locals enjoy an atmosphere that is equal part suburban communities and rural Old Florida charm. With great public schools and affordable housing, many retirees and snow birds have made Webster their permanent home.

Webster is a haven for shopaholics with an enormous 35 acres of weekly open-air markets. A haven for thrifters, the town attracts more than 50,000 people every Monday to stroll the streets to attend its popular markets.

At the Webster Swap-O-Rama, you’ll find over 2,000 spaces and 1,500 local vendors selling a variety of goods at this combination flea market and farmers market. Then cross the street to Webster WestSide to comb through the 500 antique and collectible dealers.

Where To Stay in Webster : Lakehouse Getaway: Check Rates on VRBO

Apalachicola

Apalachicola’s name derives from Hitochi Native American words meaning “on the other side,” and “people.” But locals will tell you it means “land of the friendly people.” One of the cutest small towns in Florida, one step into Apalachicola and you’ll understand why.

The welcoming port town radiates hometown charm, friendly neighbors, and rich maritime history. You’ll find bustling seafood houses, weather-worn fishing boats, and impressive historical buildings.

Walkthrough the town’s many parks and nature trails before taking a self-guided walking tour through the Historic District. Under the shade of lofty oak trees, you’ll see the regal homes of past sea captains and river pilots.

The 900 homes you can see date back to the 1830s and are a perfect example of Victorian architecture. You can learn more about the picturesque homes and the town’s diverse and colorful history on the city’s self-guided walking tour!

When you need to escape to the great outdoors, the Apalachicola River and Bay boast freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. If you’re not much of an angler, you can explore the calm waterways by kayak , riverboat, or sailboat!

Where To Stay in Apalachicola : Rivers Edge West: Check Rates on VRBO

Mexico Beach

Mexico Beach, a seaside community, is so tiny that it has no traffic lights. There are no big chain restaurants, everything is family-owned. One of the most quaint small towns in Florida, Mexico Beach is the perfect place to relax in quiet seclusion!

With only 1,000 residents, Mexico Beach encompasses five grand miles of pristine white-sand beaches along the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico! With such a beautiful coastline, the opportunities for water sports and activities are endless.

From the beaches, you can enjoy easy access to artificial reefs and the historic shipwreck of the Vamar. Simply swim out to enjoy the best snorkeling in Florida!

If you’re a fisherman or an angler visiting, you don’t even need to own a boat! There are many fishing charters available that will take you to spots popular with Spanish mackerel and kingfish! Spear fishermen can also enjoy their sport right on the shore!

If you bring your pup along, you can head over to St. Joe’s Beach. You don’t have to feel guilty about leaving your pet behind on a fun beach day, because Mexico City has their own dog beach !

Where To Stay in Mexico Beach : Beach Walk Bungalow: Check Rates on VRBO

Normally, most people don’t associate Florida with Scotland. In Dunedin, one of the oldest towns on the West Coast of Florida, you’ll change your tune forever!

Famous for its quaint and walkable downtown and annual Scottish celebrations, Dunedin is one of the most quaint small towns in Florida. Its residents protect the wooded and subtropical lands, recently winning a hard-fought battle against developers.

The charming and active downtown boasts beautiful parks, history, culture, and educational opportunities. You won’t find big chain food joints here, either. The Dunedin restaurant scene boasts pubs, seafood joints, and even fine dining establishments along the four miles of picturesque waterfront.

Just off the coast of Dunedin are Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands. Both absolute treasures renowned for their unspoiled beauty, make sure to look out for the hidden shell trees, where locals hang shells on branches and make wishes.

Check out our full guide for exploring Honeymoon Island !

Where To Stay in Dunedin : Beautiful Condo: Check Rates on VRBO

Sometimes the best small towns in Florida also happen to be beach towns as well! That’s the case for Islamorada, found in the always beautiful Florida Keys.

Islamorada or “purple island” is located in the Florida Keys! Located 15 minutes from the local airport or just 1.5-hour drive south from Miami.

Spanning 7 miles long, Islamorada is the best small beach town in Florida if you’re looking to fish. The sports fish capital of the world, you have angling opportunities on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. You can find over 500 species of fish here. Peak season is in December through May! 

No trip to Islamorada is complete without a stop at Robbie’s Marina found at MM 77. You can feed tarpon for $2.25 per person, or for the more adventurous you can rent a kayak to visit Indian Key State Park. 

While at Robbie’s try the Hogfish Sandwich at the Hungry Tarpon. Or Chef Michael’s for a more upscale dining experience.  

Theater of the Sea is a great place to get up close to dolphins, sea lions, or take a glass-bottom boat ride. For those looking for an all-inclusive resort, the Cheeca Lodge will provide you with an upscale all-inclusive getaway! 

Located in the 6-block cultural downtown, you will find tons of art galleries. Plan your trip correctly and you can experience Art Walk, one of the best festivals in Florida! 

Where To Stay in Islamorada : Luxurious Home: Check Rates on VRBO

DeFuniak Springs

In 2019, MSN.com named DeFuniak Springs as the best of all the small towns in Florida. Home to just over 5,000 people, you can find DeFuniak Springs in the panhandle.

DeFuniak Springs holds a notable place in Florida’s history. Here, you can find a resort and campus built during the Victorian Era. Marketed to the nation as “The Education Resort of the South,” the campus was once gated and very exclusive.

A tour of Downtown will guide you through some of DeFuniak Spring’s most historic sites. Make sure to stop and see the Train Depot, the old Tented Classrooms, Hotel Chautauqua, and the Wooden Sidewalks.

Come during Christmastime to see the grounds as more than 6 million lights adorn the Victorian structures. A stroll while gazing at the lights twinkling in the spring-fed lake is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas in Florida .

If you’re tired of reading wine labels, then visit Chautauqua Winery! They’ll help you take the guesswork out of picking your new favorite wine with all-day tastings and tours through the vineyards.

Where To Stay in DeFuniak Springs : Secluded Waterfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Nestled in the heart of the Apalachicola National Forest, you can find one of the most unique small towns in Florida. Sopchoppy will be your gateway into rural Florida.

Less than 500 people call Sopchoppy home. 45 minutes from Tallahassee, Sopchoppy is not just a fun word to say. It’s also known as the Worm Gruntin’ Capital of the World.

Every April, on the second Saturday of the month, people come from all over Florida, Georgia, and Alabama congregate. During a special festival, grunters use a specialized technique to draw earthworms up to the ground’s surface to use as fishing bait.

Use those worms and head over to the Ochlockonee River State Park for a grand day of boating and fishing. Sopchoppy is actually one of the best places to go camping in Florida !

Where To Stay in Sopchoppy : Beachfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Along the Atlantic Coast of Florida, you can find the Sailfish Capital of the World. To the north of Palm Beach and south of Vero Beach , you’ll find Stuart , one of the cutest small towns in Florida.

Famed for its historic and pedestrian-friendly downtown, you shouldn’t miss the Stuart Green Market. A small farmers market, you can find it every Sunday from 9 AM – 1 PM just near City Hall.

For nature lovers, head over to Seabranch Preserve State Park. Perfect for birding, you can also enjoy nature trails and even a butterfly garden! Then head over to St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park to observe sea turtles nesting.

History buffs will enjoy the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar. A restored home, it was once used as a haven for shipwrecked sailors dating back to the early 1900s. You can also find restored homes and furniture of early pioneers at the Stuart Heritage Museum!

Where To Stay in Stuart : Private Oceanfront Condo: Check Rates on VRBO

White Springs

There are many tourist attractions in Florida, but did you know the town of White Springs was Florida’s first? One of the most quaint small towns in Florida, White Springs offers a quintessential look into Old Florida.

Home of the annual Florida Folk Festival, White Springs is a tourist destination famous for its historic charm, antiquing and water activities on the Suwannee River. The river cuts right through the town, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The proximity of the river affords many opportunities for kayaking in Florida ! Don’t be afraid to bring your rods and lures along. Fishermen can enjoy catching red-bellies, brim, mullet, and catfish.

For the more adventurous, there are many natural springs that spawn off of the Suwannee River. Grab a mask and some fins and enjoy snorkeling with the manatees . Divers will love the many water caves to explore.

Where To Stay in White Springs: Hidden Creek Cabin: Check Rates on VRBO

Just an hour southwest of Gainesville , you’ll find the tiny enclave known as Cedar Key. One of the most quaint small towns in Florida, it offers beautiful beaches, fishing opportunities, and old-fashioned, traditional Florida beauty.

With very few traffic lights, you’ll stop and wave at locals as they pass you on the sidewalk. The local police ride around on spiffy golf carts. The houses and shops sit on stilts over the Gulf of Mexico.

Over the tiny keys that make up Cedar Key, you can easily find a tasty clam chowder with a cold brew to wash it down. Your backdrop? The natural beauty of the tranquil village and the almost forgotten natural Florida beauty.

Cedar Key remains a haven for artists, writers, and a special breed of tourists who seek out unspoiled environments. Join the thousand of visitors who make their way to Cedar Key for their local festivals.

The Old Florida Celebration of the Arts in April celebrates local artists, old and new. The Fourth of July party takes fireworks to a new level with the bursts reflecting in the ocean water. With no high-rises, Cedar Key is perfect for The Stargazing Party in February!

Where To Stay in Cedar Key : Aqua Vista: Check Rates on VRBO

Micanopy holds the title of the oldest inland town in Florida. It means “head chief,” a title bestowed upon the leader of the Alachua Seminoles. Micanopy, “the town that time forgot,” is one of the best small towns in Florida.

Ancient oaks draped with Spanish moss line Micanopy’s narrow streets. The shade is welcomed by the numerous historic homes and old cracker houses that create the picturesque warmth of the town.

Once occupied by the Alachua Seminoles, you can often see excavators and preservation initiatives searching for artifacts in residents’ yards. You can learn more the Alachua Seminoles at the Micanopy Native American Heritage Preserve, which protects a Native American mound.

The town is so appealing, many films and television shows have been shot on location here, including Doc Hollywood, Cross Creek, and Top Gear! Shooting locations include the Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast, a Greek revival mansion.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park protects a massive natural basin in the “great Alachua Savannah.” Here, bison and wild horses roam free in the state’s largest grassland at 22,000 acres. At times, the fields are covered in wildflowers.

Where To Stay in Micanopy : Treetop Artists Retreat: Check Rates on VRBO

Lake Placid

Arguably the prettiest of the small towns in Florida, Lake Placid has two nicknames. “Town of Murals” and “The Caladium Capital of the World.” Well, three titles if you count Reader’s Digest dubbing it “America’s Most Interesting Town.”

Lake Placid earned its “Town of Murals” nickname because of the 49 murals that adorn commercial buildings. They tell the story and history of Lake Placid and its people.

It is also “the Caladium Capital of the World” because 70 – 80% of the world’s caladium (or the colorful Heart of Jesus plant) is grown here. The Caladium Festival each summer features a massive car and motorcycle show!

Lake Placid’s other attractions include 27 freshwater lakes, Toby’s Clown School, and the Saturday Morning Market. Catch it on the second Saturday of each month from October through March.

The town is not without its festivals, either. Catch the annual Grape Stomp at Henscratch Farms Vineyard & Winery in August. And in February, you can attend the Arts & Crafts Country Fair!

Where To Stay in Lake Placid : Lake View Cottage: Check Rates on VRBO

Known as “The Historic Town at the End of the Road,” you’ll dead-end into St. Marks at the end of Woodville Highway, or State Road 363. One of the cutest small towns in Florida, St. Marks is one of the oldest settlements in North America and is believed to be the third oldest in the new world.

With a population of less than 300, its historical significance in Florida remains unparalleled. Just 20 miles south of Tallahassee, St. Marks was one of the most important early ports in Florida.

While it is small, St. Marks makes up for its size with a bounty of natural attractions. Visit the archeological displays at San Marcos de Apalache Historic Park. Walk the salt marshes at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuse and take a selfie in front of the St. Marks Lighthouse!

Wakulla Springs with its wonderful swimming holes is right down the road. You can charter a fishing boat with a crew or on your own at Shields Marina!

Where To Stay in St. Marks : Waterfront Home: Check Rates on VRBO

Steinhatchee

The gateway to Florida’s Nature Coast, Steinhatchee remains one of the most charming fishing towns in Florida. With only 1,000 residents, Steinhatchee provides the perfect backdrop for your laid-back beach vacation.

The atmosphere in Steinhatchee is warmed by quaint landscapes of Victorian homes. Towering live oaks provide shade with Spanish moss draped over their branches.

Nature lovers will appreciate miles and miles of quiet, unspoiled country roads. You can also find miles of white sand beaches. With no noisy crowded beach resorts, the shoreline remains unspoiled and cozy.

Surrounded by gardens and lush foot trails, Steinhatchee is often referred to as “Florida’s Best Kept Secret.” Shhh, we won’t tell if you don’t!

Where To Stay in Steinhatchee : Romantic Angels Attic: Check Rates on VRBO

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A wish for Florida waters

By capt. karl deigert - | apr 25, 2024.

Capt. Karl Deigert. Photo provided

Then came 2016, first time I learned of Harmful Cyanobacteria Algae. The toxic bloom blanketed the Caloosahatchee River and Cape Coral canals. I stood on my dock and thought, “If that bloom comes here, my business will be destroyed; I will have to leave.”

2017 saw a reprieve but not for long. Summer of 2018 brought the worst Red Tide in history to SW Florida. Dead sea life blanketed beaches for months. Businesses shuttered doors. Millions of dollars were lost daily. Laid off employees were forced into lines at food banks. My two businesses’ revenue went to zero. Fortunately, I survived the downturn; many businesses did not. Many folks were forced away; dreams of paradise lost. Watching degradation accelerate, I began a deep dive on the 1000 cuts killing Florida – Agricultural pollution flowing into Lake Okeechobee, Phosphate Mining, Failing Infrastructure, Herbicides, Pesticides, Fertilizers, and ultimately failed legislative and regulatory stewardship cored in a framework of failure that does nothing until harmful impacts reach a point of no return favoring remediation over prevention. I hoped for respite from now perpetual algae blooms.

No relief came. Lyngbya cyanobacteria blooms grew rapidly covering sea grass beds. My backyard was packed with floating algae emitting hydrogen sulfide gases sending neighbors to hospitals. Motel guests complained and left. Decaying Algae sinks to burn all oxygen from the waters overnight and we awoke to major fish kills. FWC would bring dead manatees to the Matlacha boat ramp at the end of my canal for pickup. Explaining all this to tourists on my eco-tours became impossible.

Being vocal, I was asked to run for office. shortly thereafter I discovered the most expedient way to bring effective change. “We the People” can create protective laws we want; the petition process to amend local city, county and

state constitutions. No politician required.

It has taken several years to help build the 2026 Florida’s Right to Clean Water state constitutional amendment campaign. Collecting 900K signatures will end the biggest problem impacting Florida waters. We will have the missing tool to hold state agencies accountable for actions allowing harm to our waters and legal standing to bring civil actions “upstream” ending major sources of pollution while shifting remediation from taxpayers’ backs onto the polluters.

Statewide Clean Water Advocacy organizations will benefit from this new law in achieving their mission statements. Ask your favorite groups if they are supporting the amendment; if not, ask Why Not? and How can they Not? The power this law will bring to conservation should be included in every discussion for Florida waters and our “Blue Economy” . I had a dream, and it’s now a life goal forever lost. June 2021 was when I determined, “It’s time to leave.”

Fortunate enough to have lived my dream, I now have a wish; I wish for all Floridians to join our 100% grassroots effort with volunteers and organizations supporting the campaign statewide. You can be the change for Florida waters. Five minutes to print, sign and mail your petition; a few more to share it with friends. For the price of a stamp, we can recapture our dreams of clean waters. Please visit floridarighttocleanwater.org today to make this new law a reality.

Capt. Karl R. Deigert, is Chairman of the Florida Right to Clean & Healthy Waters political action committee for 2026. A pharmacist by profession, charter captain by avocation and a clean water advocate by passion. A Florida resident since 1986, he currently resides in Ocala, Florida to lead the fight for clean water for all Floridians. He maybe be reached at [email protected]

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