Underrated Places to Spend the Winter in Florida
With its warm weather and sunny days, Florida is a dream winter destination. Snowbirds and tourists flock to the Sunshine State as soon as the temperatures drop up north, which means that tourist hotspots can get pretty crowded.
If you're looking for relaxation, it's worth checking out more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path locations. You'll still get the legendary weather, but you'll be able to enjoy Florida's breathtaking outdoor areas and historic sites without the crowds. And by sticking to areas favored by locals rather than tourists, you can have a more intimate experience with the local culture and population.
01 Apalachicola: A quiet Gulf Coast retreat with historic charm
Walking through the old-world architecture in downtown Apalachicola, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. This charming town, which has a long tradition of oyster farming, is one of Florida's oldest port cities. Book a hotel along the bay or the Apalachicola River for serene water views.
Apalachicola is made for relaxation and outdoor adventures. Drive over to the barrier islands to find quiet white-sand beaches, hike or paddle through St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge and finish up with dinner at one of the incredible local seafood restaurants.
02 Cedar Key – Old Florida Charm With Wildlife-Filled Waters
Set amidst a vast expanse of protected lands, Cedar Key is the perfect spot for a restful winter escape. This quaint fishing village has a palpable Old Florida feel — think candy-colored clapboard shops and ramshackle eateries perched above the water on stilts. The water conditions are ideal for clam and oyster farming, which means that the local seafood is unmatched.
Rent a kayak to explore Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge, a hotspot for local birders. Back in town, browse the local shops, attend an art festival or check out the many bars and restaurants.
03 Mount Dora: A lakeside haven for art lovers
It's impossible to resist the charm of Mount Dora, a beautiful lakefront town known for its historic architecture and fantastic antique shops. Reserve a room in a cozy bed and breakfast, and start your days with a walk along the peaceful Palm Island Park boardwalks.
The arts are alive and well in this small community, which hosts annual festivals, including the Jane Austen Fest and the Mount Dora Arts Festival. Don't miss a boat tour of scenic Lake Dora, which is also a great spot for bass fishing.
04 Anna Maria Island: The Ultimate Barrier Island Escape
If you're dreaming of lazy days on uncrowded beaches, Anna Maria Island makes the ideal serene winter escape. This tiny island doesn't allow high-rise buildings, so it's managed to hold onto its homey, Old Florida atmosphere. Instead of chain restaurants, you'll find locally owned seafood restaurants and quaint shops.
The best way to get around Anna Maria Island is on foot or by bike. After leisurely hours of beachcombing and exploring, stop into an open-air restaurant on the sand for a drink as the sun sets over the Gulf.
05 Matlacha: Colorful artist colonies and quiet fishing spots
There's one word to describe Matlacha: colorful. Everywhere you look, there's another vibrant mural or brightly colored building. The whimsical shops and art galleries embrace a similar aesthetic, and most properties in town have a water view, thanks to a clever system of canals.
Matlacha — pronounced "Matla-shay" — is a small town, so the best local seafood restaurants, kayaking, and fishing spots are just steps from your hotel or vacation rental. In short, it's a wonderful and offbeat place to get away from it all.
06 Sanibel Island: A shelling paradise and wildlife refuge
Sanibel Island has some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida — and in the winter, they're considerably less crowded. If you're a shell collector, head straight for the shell-covered Bowman's Beach; for serenity and birdwatching, check out the gloriously undeveloped J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. No matter where you go in Sanibel, you'll find peaceful spaces tailor-made for nature lovers.
07 Fernandina Beach: A historic escape on Amelia Island
Hidden away on the northern end of Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is one of Florida's best-kept secrets. The impeccably preserved downtown looks much as it did in the 1800s, and the city's historic district includes truly spectacular Victorian homes.
When you're not ogling the architecture or indulging in fresh seafood (shrimp is a local specialty), check out one of the winter festivals or enjoy a day of beachcombing on the city's clean, expansive shoreline. Or, explore Fernandina Beach's Civil War history at Fort Clinch State Park.
08 Tarpon Springs: Greek heritage and sponge-diving traditions
With its unique sponge-diving history, Tarpon Springs is a fascinating place to explore. At the city's historic sponge docks and the Spongeorama Museum, you can learn how Greek sponge divers founded the town and built a thriving industry. That Greek heritage is still visible today; Tarpon Springs is home to a large Greek community and some of the best authentic Greek restaurants and bakeries in the state.
The town itself offers a unique blend of history and seaside charm. Stroll the docks, explore the many parks or take a boat tour of the local area.
09 Crystal River: Swim with manatees in Florida's natural springs
The tiny town of Crystal River is home to one of Florida's most spectacular hidden gems: impossibly clear freshwater springs. Swimming or snorkeling through the brilliant turquoise water is an experience straight out of a movie.
Here's the best part: in the winter, gentle manatees flock to the region to enjoy the warm water of Kings Bay and Three Sisters Springs Wildlife Refuge. You can see them up close on a boat tour or snorkeling tour; this is one of a few places where it's legal to swim with manatees.
10 Peanut Island: A hidden snorkeling paradise
Floating up to Peanut Island feels like arriving on a deserted tropical island. The white-sand beaches are lined with palm trees, and the water near the shore is warm and clear. On weekdays, the island is quiet and serene; pack plenty of snacks and spend the day snorkeling, swimming and kayaking. This minimally commercialized spot is a great place to try winter water sports without the tourist crowds.
Peanut Island is only accessible by boat. You can catch the shuttle from the Riviera Beach City marina, but it's more fun to rent a paddleboard or kayak to make the short journey.
11 Vero Beach: Serene coastline and an artsy atmosphere
Tucked between the tourist hubs of West Palm Beach and Daytona Beach on the Atlantic coast, Vero Beach offers a quieter, less commercialized vibe. Spend your winter vacation relaxing on tranquil beaches or exploring the lush parks scattered around town.
If you're interested in arts and culture, this friendly community has you covered — the local arts scene is ever-growing, with an impressive art museum and a selection of independent galleries. Vero Beach is also the home to Florida's largest professional theater, which hosts events ranging from musicals to comedy shows.
12 Islamorada: Peaceful fishing village in the Florida Keys
Islamorada, a peaceful winter vacation destination in the Florida Keys, is known for its world-class fishing. Anglers regularly reel in monster tarpon, snapper and grouper. Closer to shore, you'll find crystal-clear water, relaxed beach bars and every watersport your heart desires.
The fun doesn't stop at the end of the day. Simply pop into a waterfront restaurant, and you can dig into a plate of locally caught seafood while watching some of the most spectacular sunsets in Florida.
13 Boca Grande: Uncrowded beaches and old-world Florida charm
Boca Grande is an easy drive from Fort Myers, but it feels like a different world. The pristine beaches are quiet and uncrowded, and the atmosphere is laid-back — the perfect conditions for winter relaxation. If you can pry yourself away from the astounding natural beauty along the shore, try fishing or watersports in the calm waters of the Gulf.
Away from the ocean, check out the historic Gasparilla Island Lighthouse and the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse. Want to get active? The Boca Grande Rail Trail is an easy way to explore the island on foot or by bike.
14 Fort Pierce: An eco-tourism destination with unspoiled beauty
Fort Pierce is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The city's eco-tourism options and nature reserves are among the best in Florida. Between the Manatee Observation Center, Heathcote Botanical Gardens and Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, you could spend your entire vacation watching wildlife and enjoying the winter sunshine.
Although it's grown in the past few decades, Fort Pierce still feels like a quaint coastal village. When you want to switch things up, explore the adorable downtown or check out the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum.
15 Dunedin: A Gulf Coast town with breweries and island escapes
Soak in the chill vibe of Florida's Gulf Coast in Dunedin, a small town just 30 minutes from Tampa. This hidden gem has a distinct community feeling; you'll fit right in as you explore local festivals and wander into the many downtown shops and restaurants. If you're a beer lover, it's easy to spend hours away at Dunedin's famous craft breweries.
When it's time for a beach day, Honeymoon Island State Park is a quick drive down the Dunedin Causeway. With miles of undeveloped beaches and a large trail network, it feels like a remote wilderness escape.
These underrated Florida towns are the perfect destinations if you want to experience Florida's balmy winter weather without crowds of tourists. Venture beyond the state's popular tourist havens, and you'll discover hidden gems filled with history, culture and mesmerizing natural beauty.
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