Florida: The Winter Refuge for East Coasters

If you’re looking for a winter getaway, look no further than Florida, the ultimate retreat for East Coasters seeking warmth and adventure. Over the past few years, I’ve explored several crystal-clear springs, and I can’t recommend them enough to my friends on the East Coast. So gather your winter gear and prepare for a magical journey through the sunshine state!

🌊 Weeki Wachee Springs

Located just a stone’s throw from Tampa, Weeki Wachee Springs is a must-visit when the sun is shining. The water here is breathtakingly clear, and you might even catch a glimpse of a friendly manatee!

Although swimming isn’t allowed, you can rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) through the park’s official website. The two-hour trip to the endpoint is an absolute dream with a shuttle service to bring you back.

• Opt for the park’s rental over the Get Up And Go Kayaking guided tour. The park’s route takes you downstream, making for an easy ride – we struggled to paddle against the current while attempting the reverse route!
• Stunning scenery awaits you, with lush woodlands lining the water. GUGK’s route starts from downstream where houses pepper the banks.
• Mornings are best for photography as you cruise downstream without direct sunlight glaring back at you.

Keep in mind: no disposable items, including bottled water and packaged snacks, are allowed in the park!

💧 Ginnie Springs

If you’re willing to venture a bit further from Tampa and Orlando, Ginnie Springs is an extraordinary spot to dive into more than just kayaking; it’s a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can rent all necessary equipment, and floating down the river on an inflatable tube can be fun (though I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re ready for a long trek back). The effort of carrying the tube can be exhausting!

🏞️ Silver Springs

For those looking for a guided experience, Silver Springs is highly recommended. I had an amazing time on a guided tour with GUGK, who helped us spot multiple manatees and even alligators! Plus, they offer excellent underwater photography services to capture those memorable moments.

While the park’s transparent bottom boats are an option, I found the experience less immersive than I expected. They only have a transparent base, which didn’t quite meet my expectations.

🌿 Three Sisters Springs + Crystal River

Initially, I wasn’t too excited about Crystal River due to the murky water. Unfortunately, my visit to the Three Sisters Springs was disappointing as well. Access is restricted from mid-November, and you can only observe from the boardwalk – not quite the experience I had hoped for. To add to my dismay, not a single manatee was spotted that day! ($40 felt a little unfair, to say the least).

📌 General Tips for Visiting Springs

For all the springs, I highly recommend visiting in the morning, especially on weekends. You’ll find fewer crowds, less glare, and a more peaceful atmosphere to fully enjoy the beauty surrounding you. 🌅

Florida’s springs offer an idyllic winter escape packed with natural beauty and adventure. So, which spring will you visit first? Let me know your thoughts below!