DESTINATIONS

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After a day on the spring run, venture into the quaint town of Dunnellon for a bite at waterfront staples such as Swampy’s Bar and Grille or Blue Gator Tiki Bar and Restaurant. For overnight stays, the area features a range of affordable motels, hotels, camping and vacation rentals.

HIGH SPRINGS

Nestled near the Santa Fe River in Alachua County, High Springs is a jumping-off point for adventure. While the town of just several thousand permanent residents features eateries, a brewery, small shops and ice cream, the real draw of this area lies in the springs.

Visit several nearby swimming holes and water-based points of interest, including the Ginnie Springs system, Rum Island Springs, Poe Springs and Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. Camping at Ginnie Springs is a popular overnight option, but visitors can also consider nearby bed and breakfasts, hotels and rentals.

TARPON SPRINGS

Known for its Greek culture and as the “sponge capital of the world,” Tarpon Springs presents abundant charm and natural scenery along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Walk along brick streets, taking in nearly 150 years of history while browsing natural sponges in souvenir shops, Greek restaurants and local art.

The town also offers plenty of options for spending time outside with paddling tours, dolphin cruises and nearby parks primed for watching picturesque sunsets over the Gulf.

CRYSTAL RIVER

Famous for being the “manatee capital of the world,” Crystal River has the only national wildlife refuge created to protect the habitats of Florida’s official marine animal. Hundreds of manatees congregate in the springs during colder months for the lifegiving warmth of the springs.

Even during the summer months, visitors can embark on specially permitted manatee tours to get up close with Florida’s sea cows. The area also has options for paddling, hiking, lounging on the beach and enjoying seafood restaurants.

KEY WEST

The Conch Republic has a storied history that features native inhabitants, Spanish explorers, hurricanes, a brief drive for independence and Ernest Hemingway. During a visit to Key West, tourists can explore a shipwreck museum, visit the Hemingway Home, watch the sunset from Mallory Square, get a photo with the southernmost point monument and drink on Duval Street.

Prices for overnight stays in Key West vary depending on the season but tend to increase during the dry season between November and April. Summer may be a good time to visit to take advantage of lower hotel rates, snorkeling tours and experiences cooling down on the water.

ST. AUGUSTINE

When searching for history, look no further than the place that claims to be the oldest city in the United States. St. Augustine is the oldest “continuously occupied settlement of European and AfricanAmerican origin” in the U.S.

Visit several museums and attractions, including the Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the Old Jail Museum, the Lightner Museum and the St. Augustine Shipwreck Museum.

SIESTA KEY

While many stretches of shoreline carry the risk of burnt feet for shoeless beachgoers, Siesta Key features white quartz sand that’s soft and cooler to the touch. Combined with the turquoise Gulf waters, small-town charm and amenities, Siesta Key has been ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. several times.

There are a number of resorts and bungalows to ensure overnight guests have a relaxing siesta.

AMELIA ISLAND

Tucked away on the Atlantic Coast just outside Jacksonville, there’s an island that time forgot. Amelia Island is home to a mid-19thcentury fort, Florida’s oldest bar and an “Old Town” settled by the Spanish in the early 1800s (and long before that, the Timucua Indians).

DESTIN/GRAYTON BEACH

Vacationers of all interests can find something to do in Destin, a Gulf Coast city in the Florida Panhandle with fishing, golf, tennis, diving and snorkeling. A little further east, visit Grayton Beach to find a small town with a relaxed, hippie vibe and beautiful beaches.

On this scenic stretch of coastline, some beaches are protected and are pristine state parks, while there are also opportunities for biking and hiking on nature trails.