Getting Around Florida Without a Car: Public Transport Tips
Florida’s massive. Like, you look at it on a map and think, “oh yeah, that’s drivable.” But then you’re actually there, and everything’s way mor...
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Florida’s big hitters — Orlando, Miami, Clearwater — get most of the attention. And fair enough. They’re iconic. But if you’ve been before, or just fancy something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, you’ll be pleased to know there’s a quieter, more surprising side to the Sunshine State. One that’s less about queuing for rides and more about finding the kind of places you’d never see in a brochure.
Here are a few hidden gems we love — secret beaches, sleepy towns, and natural spots that feel like Florida’s best-kept secrets. For now, anyway.
Just off the coast near Clearwater is Caladesi Island, a state park that’s only reachable by boat, kayak… or a rather long walk from neighbouring Honeymoon Island. And that makes it feel instantly more special.
There are no resorts, no souvenir shops, and definitely no crowds. Just white sand, clear water, and that feeling you’ve stumbled onto something private. Bring a picnic, plenty of suncream, and don’t expect great phone signal — in the best possible way.
If you’re staying on the Gulf Coast and fancy a day away from the usual, this one’s a proper breath of fresh air.
Just under an hour’s drive north of Orlando, Mount Dora feels like a completely different world. Think historic buildings, antique shops, cobbled streets, and a massive lake where people go boating, fishing, or just sit and do absolutely nothing.
It’s the kind of place that looks like a film set, but people actually live there — and they’ll happily tell you the best place for homemade pie (spoiler: it’s everywhere). There’s a big craft fair every autumn, loads of little boutiques, and some lovely spots for brunch with lake views.
If you need a break from the parks, Mount Dora is so worth a half-day trip.
You’d be forgiven for thinking all Florida beaches are the same. But Blowing Rocks Preserve on Jupiter Island (east coast) is something else entirely. Picture rugged limestone rocks jutting out along the shoreline — the kind you wouldn’t expect in Florida — and waves crashing through the holes with serious drama.
When the tide’s right, it’s like nature’s own fountain show. When it’s calm, it’s perfect for walking, shell-hunting, or pretending you’re on some faraway island.
There’s a small entrance fee and no food stalls, so bring your own bits. Oh, and shoes you don’t mind getting sandy.
Way up on the Gulf Coast, a couple of hours north of Tampa, is Cedar Key — a little coastal town with big old-time charm. It’s got stilted cottages, fresh seafood, barely any chain shops, and sunsets that stop you mid-sentence.
People come here to fish, paddleboard, or just switch off. There’s one main street, one school, one pizza place (that’s surprisingly good), and not a theme park in sight. It’s a bit of a mission to get to — but that’s kind of the point.
If Key West is a bit too “scene” for you, Cedar Key might be more your pace.
Just 45 minutes from Orlando, Blue Spring State Park is famous for one thing in particular: manatees. Every winter (roughly November to March), these gentle giants gather in the warm spring waters in their hundreds. It’s a proper wow moment, and one of those things you don’t forget.
You can’t swim when they’re in residence (fair enough), but in summer, the spring reopens for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. The water is crystal-clear and a steady 72°F year-round — ideal if the Florida heat’s getting a bit much.
It’s cheap to get in, easy to reach, and feels a million miles from the theme parks.
