6 of the Most Beautiful Places to See in Florida

Florida is fondly nicknamed “The Sunshine State” because of its abundant sunshine, balmy climate, and warm temperatures, Florida is filled with natural and human-made wonders. From breathtaking beaches and stunning springs to expansive natural parks and majestic buildings, tourists will want for nothing in this state. Pack your bags and visit some of the most beautiful places to see in Florida!

1. Madison Blue Spring State Park

As one of the most beautiful places to see in Florida, Madison Blue Spring State Park does not disappoint with stunning natural sights.

The park is best known for its crystal-clear spring, which rises up into a limestone basin close to the western section of the Withlacoochee River. The picturesque spring is surrounded by lush woodlands, featuring the various type of pines and hardwoods.

You can swim in the spring’s cool waters, have a picnic by the banks of the spring, or explore the tranquil nature trails around the park. Ask for a guided tour if you want to go cave diving. Birdwatching, fishing, paddling, swimming, and tubing are also popular activities in Madison Blue Spring State Park.

Take note:

There are times when the spring is closed for swimming and diving due to high water levels. If you plan to do either of these activities during your visit, make sure to double-check their availability before you make the trip.

2. St. Augustine

Take a step back in time at this National Historic Landmark District. The historical touchstone of The Sunshine State and the oldest city in America, St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by the Spanish. It’s the place to be for scenic walks along centuries-old cobblestone streets and ancient buildings featuring Spanish, English, and French architecture. Don’t forget to sample the scrumptious local cuisine, stop by the extensive Lightener Museum, and visit some of the jazz bars when you visit this charming town.

3. Devil’s Den

An otherworldly natural wonder, the Devil’s Den is a popular pre-historic spring in The Sunshine State. Sunlight filters into the iridescent underground river, providing an ethereal sight that you’ll never forget. It is no wonder it is one of the most beautiful places to see in Florida.

The spring earned its name because of the smoke-like steam that rises from its opening during cold winter mornings. Unfortunately, not everyone can get access to this stunning gem. Entry to Devil’s Den, which is a privately owned property, is limited to the scuba divers and snorkelers. It’s off-limits to casual visitors, swimmers, and children below six years of age.

The spring offers a pleasant diving and snorkeling experience, as it retains a pleasant 72 degrees all throughout the year. Feel free to stop by this natural wonder, no matter what the season. It is located close to Williston, Florida.

4. Christ of the Abyss

Want to see something truly awe-inspiring the next time you go snorkeling or scuba diving? Visit the Christ of the Abyss. Also known as the Christ of the Deep, the bronze statue rests 25 ft. under the sea just off Key Lagro. It weighs 4,000 pounds and stands at 8.5 ft. Arguably the most famous underwater destination in Key Largo, Florida, you’ll find the statue mounted on a cement base atop a patch reef in a small canyon.

Christ of the Abyss is an identical copy of the “Il Christo Degli Abissi,” status in the Mediterranean Sea.  There are two ways to see this stunning human-made wonder: snorkeling and scuba diving. Book one of the boat tours in the Pennekamp State Park or Key Largo to reach its spot. Because of its location, snorkelers can only see the top of the Christ of the Abyss. Go scuba diving for an up-close look of the underwater statue.

Cool facts:

• If a barracuda or two approaches you during a dive, don’t feed them. Many tourists have done so, which is what led these creatures to become friendlier to visitors.
• Thanks to its unique setting, the Christ of the Abyss is also a popular wedding destination, so don’t be surprised if you see couples getting married by the statue. After all, who wouldn’t want to tie the know with one of the most beautiful places to see in Florida as a backdrop?

5. Molasses Reef

Whether you’re an avid scuba diver or a casual snorkeler, this gorgeous underwater destination should be a part of your Florida bucket list. Molasses Reef is home to one of the most expansive collections of reefs and marine life in The Sunshine State. The reef is “Sanctuary Preservation Area” located east of the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and southeast offshore of Key Largo.

One of the lesser-known facts about this marine destination is that ships used to form a significant part of it. In 1987, the authorities intentionally sunk two ships in the area to serve as a foundation for the reef.

Teeming with life and color, there’s no shortage of amazing sights at the Molasses Reef. Go snorkeling or diving to see various types of tropical fishes. Wear a long shirt or rash guard before entering the sea for protection against the occasional jellyfish.

Not up for a swim? Take one of the glass-bottom boat rentals to explore the reef from the surface. Listen to the tour guide point out and provide in-depth background on the various corals and fishes in the area.

6. Grayton Beach State Park

Massive dunes, towering sound pines, white sand, and the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico — Grayton Beach State Park is the sum of all these things and more. It’s no wonder it’s not just one of the most beautiful places to see in Florida, but also one of the most popular pristine beach destinations in America.

Grayton Beach State Park is a 2,000-acre park featuring scenic nature trails, beautiful campsites, and a stunning coastal dune lake. You won’t run out of things to do in this top attraction. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the warm breezes from the gulf, take a paddleboat and explore the Western Lake, or go swimming in the warm waters. You can also go to bicycling, boating, fishing, camping, hiking. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

There you have it — six of the most beautiful places to see in Florida! However, the Sunshine State has so much more in store for you. Explore the best things to do in Florida on your next trip!