If you are interested in planning a vacation to some of the best eco-destinations in Florida, you should be aware of the fact that you will be faced with a wonderful experience. This state has some completely unforgettable, preserved beauty spaces, ranging from the wonderful Northwest sand beaches to the Everglades. Holiday villas in Florida are incredible and the eco-lifestyle is a big part of local life.

One thing that many do not know is that Florida is a highly ecological and really culturally diverse spot to go to. It is definitely among the most diverse travel destinations in the world. Florida is renowned for being vacations centered, mainly building a travel reputation due to shopping and theme parks. However, this is just the start of what you could experience in the Sunshine State. This state has a unique history and numerous natural landscapes. This is why eco-tours are so popular right now.

There are many different towns and destinations you can find when interested in ecotourism, such as Tampa Bay. Most of them are within a short driving distance of popular tourist hubs. Make sure that you travel consciously and light so that you can truly enjoy the natural beauty that Florida has to offer. Check out the following destinations as really top spots that you do want to put on your list.

Navarre

Navarre is placed between Destin and Pensacola. It is a perfect place that allows you to explore Florida’s Northwest area, which features a stunning powder-white coastline.

One of the best spots to visit is Gulf Islands National Seashore. This covers 8 miles filled with undeveloped beaches. You can even spot some incredible sea turtles that visit the shores in order to rest. Move east to check out the dune lakes of Walton County. This is where you can find some incredible freshwater marvels that are unique around the world. In the north, you want to go close to Milton so you can experience what the Blackwater River has to offer. This is Florida’s Canoe Capitol. Then, be sure that you hike the Blackwater River State Forest’s Florida National Scenic Trail.

Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach features so many miles of coastline that is undeveloped. It is a favorite spot for those that love nature and that want to spend some quality time on the coast. Once there, go through the North Peninsula State Park to find pristine scrub-jay habitat and visit Fairchild Oak. This is one of the largest oaks in the world, a wonderful Bulow Creek State Park attraction. Once there, go to Graham Swamp Conservation Area, a region that is simply a heaven for fox, deer and wading birds.

Crystal River

The Crystal River Archaeological State Park offers everything that an eco-conscious tourist would want to see. This includes a plaza area, middens and Native American mounds that are pre-Columbian.

Do you want to see some manatees? Then, visit Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in King’s Bay. The area was created in order to protect the West Indian Manatee, which is an endangered species. There are different guided kayak and boat tours that you can choose from. Also, there are numerous trails that hikers are simply going to adore. The one that is usually recommended is the beautiful Citrus Hiking Trail. It is located in Withlacoochee State Forest and gives you the possibility of seeing the red-cockaded woodpecker, which is quite a rare species.

Everglades City

Whenever talking about Florida and ecotourism, it is impossible not to mention the Everglades. This is an incredibly popular destination for all people that want to start self-guided eco tours in the state. Your base camp can be set in Everglades City, which is the best gateway to visit the Everglades National Park.

Once you are there, seriously consider paddling the Wilderness Waterway (99 miles long) and try camping in Ten Thousand Islands, an area that is very popular at the moment. Guided tours are available, taking you to Smallwood Store and Rod And Gun Club, in Chokoloskee Island.

Punta Gorda

This is a truly wonderful starting point for anyone interested in coastal and inland exploration. This incredible Southwest Florida town is simply filled with history, giving you access to that old Florida charm that you want to experience. Much preserved land can be found here. Around 80% of the entire Charlotte Harbor coastline is now protected, being marked as the seventeenth largest US estuary. You can experience around 200 miles of blueway trails, giving paddlers wonderful options for wildlife watching and birding.

When moving away from the coastline you can enjoy numerous Florida eco tours, normally starting from Babcock Ranch. You can also visit Pine Island, where you can learn about Calusa Indians thanks to the people at Randell Research Center.

Conclusions

Florida may be renowned for the party lifestyle and the many things that tourists do every single day but there is so much more to experience. Most tourists do not actually know much about the real beauty of this state. The destinations highlighted above are just some that are perfect for those interested in ecotourism. Many others can be mentioned.

Start your experience from a spot that will allow you to quickly reach as many ecotourism destinations as possible. Also, be sure that your visit will be longer than just a weekend. You do need at least a week to plan a trip that would cover some of what the state has to offer.