Unknown communities to discover in Florida
Florida is best known for its glitzy, glamorous cities and fun-filled attractions, its exceptional vibrant beach parties, and its exciting nightlife. From the boardwalks of Miami Beach to the thrills and spills of Orlando, Florida’s bright, brash character packs a fun-filled punch and is a huge draw for tourists from around the world.
But there is another side of Florida, one which does get less attention but is still well worth experiencing. Florida’s hidden communities and smaller, secret towns are charming and delightful, and just as fun to visit as the brighter lights of the bigger cities.
If you are looking for something a little more off the beaten track there are plenty of options to choose from in Florida. From tiny beachside communities and peaceful islands to historic old towns and hidden attractions, it is easy to slip under the radar and get off the tourist trail in Florida.
So if you are planning to leave Florida cruising and want to discover an alternative side of the Sunshine State, here are some of the most charming hidden towns and communities that Florida has to offer.
Cedar Key
This charming coastal village on the Gulf of Mexico is one of the few authentic Old Florida towns still in existence, and it is truly something special. Combining the sleepy, traditional charm of a small fishing village with a hip, alternative vibe, Cedar Key is a perfect example of Florida’s off-beat uniqueness. It boasts a selection of eateries from cozy seafood joints to Mexican restaurants, as well as art galleries, boutique shops, a historic lighthouse, and a lovely beach, as well as plenty of opportunities to explore nature in the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge.
For those who crave a bit more adventure on the water, venturing a little further south to Fort Lauderdale opens up a whole new world of aquatic experiences, including some of the best Fort Lauderdale fishing charters available. These charters offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing and to explore the rich marine life that Florida's waters have to offer.
Perry
Nestled in the northern heartlands of Florida’s Taylor county, Perry is an unassuming yet exquisite small town packed full of rural charm, with a surprisingly vibrant cultural life. Despite its small population of only 5,000, Perry has a huge reputation for events, activities, and attractions, ranging from its colorful and lively local markets to its excellent local museums and rich dining scene. It is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city and slow things down with a weekend break.
Suwannee
This classic Florida coastal town is located in the Big Bend region of Florida, just north of the mouth of the famous Suwannee River. Filled with bags of laidback charm, it has a total population of 2,000 which makes it the perfect place to chill out and relax at a different pace of life. The best thing to do in Suwannee is explore the glittering waters of the river that gave it its name, whether that’s wildlife watching in the local reserve or swimming with manatees at Manatee Springs!
Titusville
This tiny community in Brevard County on the east coast of Florida is often overshadowed by its larger, more famous neighbor, Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center. But it is a delightful place to stay, particularly for travelers looking for somewhere a little quieter and more peaceful, and it still allows you to immerse yourself in the history (and contemporary reality) of space travel. Titusville is home to the American Space Museum and the Valiant Air Command and Warbird Museum, meaning there’s plenty for space fans to enjoy, while the Manatee Observation Center and the Museum of Natural History offer options for everyone else.
Getting off the beaten track and exploring the lesser-known communities lets you experience a different side to Florida, and will make you appreciate this glorious state even more than you already do!