On your next Florida vacation, whether staying at a luxurious beach resort on the East Coast, West Coast, or in the heart of all the theme parks in Central Florida, there are some really unique small towns with old Florida history worth a day trip to.  We’ve selected 9 charming Florida towns as our top picks to pique your interest and separated them by region.

On the Southern East Coast:

Stuart– The “Sailfish Capital of the World” is about a 30 minute drive north of Palm Beach.  There’s plenty to do in this small waterfront town including great local beaches, gift and specialty shopping, fresh seafood restaurants, historic museums and of course deep sea fishing charters.

Once you fall in love with this wonderful fishing town, exchange your timeshare week or points to stay longer at Plantation Beach Club at Indian River Plantation (www.hiltongrandvacations.com). This RCI Gold Crown resort offers the best amenities and accommodations Hilton style while you are exploring the area.

On the Northern East Coast:

Fernandina Beach – Located on Amelia Island, about a half hour from Jacksonville and close to the Florida/Georgia line.  This town is called “The Isle of 8 Flags” due to the number of countries claiming the town for their own as far back as 1562.  The downtown area is reminiscent of old Florida with relaxed shopping and dining establishments. Try kayaking, canoeing or take a boat tour.

On the Central West Coast:

Tarpon Springs – The “Sponge Capital of the World” and home of the historic sponge docks also offers some of the best Greek food to be found in the U.S. Situated north of Clearwater and about 45 minutes from St. Petersburg.  Enjoy a multitude of authentic Greek restaurants and bakeries, unique shopping as well as live entertainment.

Cedar Key – Just one hour southwest of Gainesville, get a feel for old Florida at this this low-key fishing, clamming and artist village with quaint streets, unique shops. Visit a museum or a Wildlife Refuge and go bird watching on the Suwannee River.  Reserve a freshwater or saltwater fishing excursion, take a canoe or kayak ride.  Looking for accommodations here?  Enjoy Cedar Cove Beach & Yacht Club (www.cedarcoveflorida.com) an RCI Hospitality Award winning timeshare resort for all your sleeping arrangements.

Dunedin – Just over an hour from Sarasota, this historic town has Scottish roots dating back to the 1850’s.  Florida’s oldest Microbrewery is located here, and baseball fans will enjoy watching the Toronto Blue Jays during Spring Training. A 20 minute ferry brings you to Caladesi Island, Go shelling, hiking or catch some rays on 3 miles of one of the best beaches in America.

On the Panhandle:

Apalachicola – Called the “Oyster Capital of the World” this lovely coastal town is just an hour’s drive from Panama City. The word Apalachicola means “Land of the friendly people” and there are unique shops and excellent local restaurants serving up plenty of fresh-caught oysters in this welcoming village.

Defuniak Springs – This quaint town is about an hour or so from Pensacola.  Stroll down charming streets or drive around Lake DeFuniak, an almost perfectly round, spring-fed lake surrounding by stunning Victorian homes.   There’s a vineyard and winery close by and you can spend time relaxing at local restaurants, go shopping or check out the State’s oldest operating Library.

Central Florida:

Mount Dora – This historic, picturesque village is settled around sparkling Lake Dora and located about an hour from Orlando. This “Festival City” has something going on every month of the year. Shop the local antique shops, enjoy eclectic dining, walk along the boardwalk and watch wildlife along the water’s edge, take a boat trip or experience a breathtaking lakeside sunset.

Cassadaga – Located between Orlando and Daytona Beach, this “spiritualist” community is on the National Register of Historic Places and the “Psychic Capital of the World”. This town is home to more than 50 healers, psychics and mediums. Tours, shopping and dining; perfect for paranormal enthusiasts.

Wherever you next Florida vacation takes you, drive across country lines and check out one or several of these hidden gems and enjoy a glimpse back in Florida’s historical past.

 

Author – Chris Golden