While Orlando and Miami typically garner all the attention from tourists, Florida is full of charming small towns just begging to be explored on your next road trip. These lesser-known destinations in the Sunshine State are blessed with pleasant vibes, picturesque natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path attractions away from all the masses. Pack a bag and take a journey through Florida’s most unique small towns filled with rich history, friendly locals, and unbeatable charm.
Santa Rosa Beach
Named one of Travel + Leisure’s Top 5 Favorite Towns in America, Santa Rosa is a luxurious beach town on Florida’s Emerald Coast. Soak in the beauty of the pristine undeveloped beach decorated with quaint beach houses and sugary white sand. It’s one of the best beaches in Florida’s Panhandle.
Grayton Beach
A funky area with Hemingway-style wooden homes and paved streets with crushed oyster shells, Grayton beach is a small artsy town full of character with beaches that consistently rank among the most gorgeous in the U.S. It also consistently rates as one of the best hidden gems on the Gulf Coast.
Apalachicola
Apalachicola Bay and nearby Port St. Joe are friendly little fishing towns affectionally known for their friendly locals and fresh seafood. Try your hand at fishing, dive for scallops, or nosh on the tastiest oysters you’ll find in Florida.
St. George Island
A quiet island with 28 miles of undeveloped beaches and powdery white beaches, St. George Island is one of the last unspoiled barrier islands in Florida. Avoid the crowds and soak in the beauty of this peaceful beach community.
Amelia Island
Quaint B&B’s and pristine beaches make up this tranquil northeast coast town, where beachside horseback riding and wildlife viewing are popular activities. Soak in the southern charm of the historic downtown or browse through the delightful set of shops and restaurants. Retreat to one of the island’s top resorts for a little pampering.
Micanopy
Full of rich history, Micanopy is a Florida small-town favorite because of its quaint ambiance, eclectic storefronts, and antique treasures. It’s also full of natural beauty, with towering oaks and nearby Prairie Paynes Preserve.
Mount Dora
A popular small town in the Sunshine State, Mount Dora is laid-back Old Florida decorated with alluring 19th-century clapboard houses, bed and breakfast inns, and charming cafes. Stroll the quaint downtown shops and search for valuable antiques.
Dunedin
Known equally for their annual Scottish celebrations and charming small-town vibes, Dunedin has a picturesque waterfront full of activities for the whole family. Nearby Caladesi and Honeymoon Island are also some of the best beaches you’ll find in Florida.
Safety Harbor
Away from big-city neighbors Tampa and St. Pete, Safety Harbor is a laid-back community with an Old Florida feel. Here you’ll find scenic brick-lined streets decorated with moss-covered oaks, historical landmarks, and unique bed and breakfast inns.
Gulfport
A small town with a big heart, Gulfport is the quintessential charming small town popular for its year-round events. The small independent shops and welcoming locals of this artsy Old Florida community have a way of making you feel right at home.
Anna Maria Island
The speed limit in Anna Maria Island doesn’t exceed 35 mph, and for good reason. This quaint laid-back barrier island is 7 miles of natural beauty, where life slows down, and soaking in the pristine turquoise ocean views is the top activity.
Sanibel Island
Famous for the world-class shelling, Sanibel Island also offers stunning sunsets and a charismatic community devoid of fast-food restaurants, street lights, and city noise. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and natural beauty of one of Florida’s most beloved gems.
