These surprising locations go way beyond palm trees and beach umbrellas.
But theres more to Florida than swaying palm trees and beach umbrellas.
The grounds, architecture, and gardens are all rooted in Japanese tradition.
Credit:Courtesy Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing
Stroll through its six gardens, which embody practices of Japans master gardeners.
The property also hosts classes, workshops, cultural lectures, Japanese tea ceremonies, and a Pan-Asian cafe.
Today, the Gothic architecture is not something youd expect to see in Florida.
Credit:Courtesy Visit Sarasota County
The serene courtyards and ancient stones create an atmosphere of Old World spirituality.
Youll quickly forget youre in Miami.
The privately owned springhead and campground are popular among scuba divers and snorkelers.
Credit:Courtesy Morkami Japanese Garden & Museum
The prehistoric cave dates back to the Pleistocene Age.
On the grounds youll find Italianate architecture, formal gardens, and statues at every turn.
The passage is so picturesque that famous photographers like Slim Aarons and Gray Malin have photographed it.
Credit: Eddie Brady/Getty Images
Blowing Rocks Preserve
Hobe Sound
Most of Floridas coastline is sandy and soft.
If youre looking for a different Florida beach view, these two shores are a must-visit.
Getting to the rapids requires a one-mile hike.
Credit:Courtesy Devil’s Den
Check water levels and trail openings before visiting if youre set on seeing roaring water.
floridastateparks.org/big-shoals-state-park, 18738 S.E.
Midcentury motels pay homage to their retro roots and recall hey-days of simple but sweet beach vacations.
The Secret Garden was intended to hold orchids but got too much sunlight; now heat-tolerant plants like succulents grow there.Credit:Carmel Brantley
But Anna Maria Island remains a scene seemingly pulled from the set of a coastal small-town Hallmark movie.
Winter Park isnt the only canal-centric Florida city.
Cape Coral and Fort Lauderdale are both centered around waterway transportation too.
Credit:Getty Images/NoDerog
And yes, you’re able to even take a gondola ride.
The excursion to Lake Wales, Florida is well worth the drive to see this pocket of blooming beauty.
boktowergardens.org, 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
Credit:Getty Images/Michael Warren
Credit: Jessica Sample
Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.Credit:Courtesy Visit Orlando
Credit:Sean Pavone/Getty Images
