If you're like me and always chasing a cool, refreshing escape, then you’ve got to check out Florida’s natural springs. I found them to be some of the most peaceful, beautiful places to swim, paddle, and just take a breath. And the best part? You can enjoy them all year long.

Highlights:

  • Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Ichetucknee and Ginnie Springs—I did, and it felt like diving into a hidden paradise.
  • Snorkel with manatees at Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River. I’ll never forget the calm thrill of floating next to these gentle giants—you’ve got to try it.
  • Paddle your way through shaded creeks at Silver Springs State Park. I took it slow, and you should too—there’s so much beauty to take in.
  • Float lazily down the river, surrounded by forest so green it almost doesn’t feel real. I brought a tube and just let the current do the work.
  • Relax in nature—pack a picnic, hike a trail, or keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. I spent hours just unwinding, and I think you’ll feel the same pull to stay a while.

Best Natural Springs in Florida:

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/wooden-staircase-steps-going-down-to-the-crystal-clear-turquoise-water-of-ginnie-springs-florida-in-santa-fe-river/225711048

Zoe/stock.adobe.com

Dive Into Crystal Waters and Tubing Fun at Ginnie Springs

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/florida-usa-july-31-2018-america-s-largest-spring-sits-untouched-within-silver-springs-state-park/240780790

JEROME LABOUYRIE/stock.adobe.com

Paddle Through Glassy Waters at Silver Springs State Park

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/manatee-at-blue-springs-state-park/252636665

jctabb/stock.adobe.com

If You Want to Spot Manatees Up Close, Head to Blue Spring State Park

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/view-of-the-rainbow-river-at-rainbow-springs-state-park-near-dunnellon-florida/323017847

Sean Board/stock.adobe.com

Swim Beneath Waterfalls at Rainbow Springs State Park

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/rock-springs-run-florida/160084986

Guy Bryant/stock.adobe.com

Kayak the Wild and Scenic Rock Springs Run State Reserve

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/salt-springs-recreation-area-florida/294976461

PauloAlmeidaPhoto/stock.adobe.com

Soak in the Refreshing Waters of Salt Springs Recreation Area

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/group-of-divers-at-alexander-springs-ocala-national-forest-florida-usa/390275499

Felix Mizioznikov/stock.adobe.com

Camp, Swim, and Snorkel at Alexander Springs Recreation Area

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/silhouette-of-a-side-mount-diver-at-a-florida-spring/232893196

Guy Bryant/stock.adobe.com

Explore with Vortex Spring Adventures

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/enjoying-a-beautiful-day-at-silver-glen-springs-recreation-area/222867772

John/stock.adobe.com

Cool Off Where Freshwater Meets Forest at Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area

 

https://stock.adobe.com/gr_en/images/de-leon-spring-sunset-2/137126855

Michel Emile/stock.adobe.com

Swim at De Leon Springs State Park

 

Jump to a Spot...