Small Towns in Florida

Looking for a laid-back coastal escape? Atlantic Beach, part of the Jacksonville Beaches community, offers two miles of pristine white sand, accessible from 18 entry points throughout the town. With rich history, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, it’s the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.

Highlights:

• Two miles of white sand beaches with multiple access points
• Believed to be the site of the first year-round Native American settlement
• 65 acres of parks, including the scenic Dutton Island Preserve
• Calendar packed with events: meditation classes, concerts, and movies in the park
• Popular for surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and golf

Pro Tip:

Head to Dutton Island Preserve for a peaceful paddle or sunset walk. Check the town’s event calendar for live music nights or community yoga on the green.

Atlantic Beach
Northeast coast, Jacksonville Beaches, Florida

Step back in time with a visit to DeFuniak Springs, a charming Florida town known for its Victorian architecture and picturesque setting. Centered around the nearly perfectly round Lake DeFuniak—one of only two such lakes in the world—this historic gem invites visitors to slow down and soak in its timeless beauty.

Highlights:

• Stroll past beautifully preserved Victorian homes in the historic district
• Lake DeFuniak is globally unique for its nearly perfect circular shape
• Scenic downtown ideal for walking tours and photography
• Surrounding area offers excellent fishing, boating, and hiking
• Outdoor adventures include hunting, nature trails, and peaceful lake views

Pro Tip:

Visit during spring or fall for ideal weather and fewer crowds. Bring your camera—the combination of Victorian homes and lakeside scenery is postcard-perfect.

DeFuniak Springs, Florida
Located in the Florida Panhandle

Craving sunshine with a side of culture? St. Pete Beach combines white sandy shores with vibrant arts and history, offering the perfect coastal escape. Known for one of the longest public beaches in the area, it’s ideal for both laid-back lounging and adventurous water sports.

Highlights:

• Expansive public beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing
• Stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, and kiteboarding for thrill-seekers
• Nearby Heritage Village—21 acres of preserved local history
• Corey Avenue district features art galleries, shops, and dining
• Close proximity to world-class art museums and cultural attractions

Pro Tip:

Visit on a Sunday to catch the Corey Avenue Market, where you’ll find local art, produce, and live music. Water sports rentals are best booked early during peak season.

St. Pete Beach, Florida
Located on the Gulf Coast near St. Petersburg

Want to experience “Old Florida” charm by the bay? Apalachicola, nestled on Apalachicola Bay along the Gulf of Mexico, is known as the oyster capital of the world and offers a perfect blend of history, seafood, and small-town hospitality.

Highlights:

• Fresh seafood—especially oysters—served right from the bay
• Annual Florida Seafood Festival draws foodies from across the state
• Apalachicola Historic District with over 900 buildings from the 1830s
• Charming streets perfect for walking tours and photography
• Nearby day trips: Apalachicola National Forest and Tate’s Hell State Forest

Pro Tip:

Time your visit with the Florida Seafood Festival for the full Apalachicola experience. Bring comfortable shoes to explore the historic district’s quaint shops and stunning architecture.

Apalachicola, Florida
Located on the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle

Beach Towns

Looking to unplug and step back in time? Cedar Key offers a glimpse of Florida before the theme parks—complete with small-town charm, abundant nature, and a strong artistic spirit. Perfect for a peaceful getaway, this Gulf Coast gem is known for kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and beach relaxation.

Highlights:

• Top destination for kayaking, swimming, and wildlife spotting
• Excellent fishing and boating opportunities year-round
• Two beloved annual festivals: Cedar Key Fine Arts Festival (April) and Seafood Festival (October)
• Charming downtown with local galleries and coastal eateries
• Ideal spot to relax, recharge, and escape the crowds

Pro Tip:

Festival weekends fill up fast—book accommodations early. For a quieter visit, come during the off-season and explore the calm waters and nature trails at your own pace.

Cedar Key, Florida
Located on the Gulf Coast, west of Gainesville

Looking for coastal charm with a touch of history? Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island, is Florida’s northernmost city on the Atlantic Coast and offers a little bit of everything—wildlife, wide beaches, art, and history—all wrapped in small-town charm.

Highlights:

• 13 miles of scenic beaches perfect for wildlife watching and relaxation
• Annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival held every May
• Popular attractions include Fort Clinch State Park and the Artrageous Artwalk
• Charming downtown filled with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants
• Accommodations range from luxury resorts to cozy B&Bs

Pro Tip:

Visit during the Shrimp Festival for lively parades, seafood, and local crafts. For a quieter stay, come midweek and enjoy the beach or a stroll through Fort Clinch without the crowds.

Fernandina Beach, Florida
Located on Amelia Island, Atlantic Coast

Looking for a serene slice of South Florida? Deerfield Beach offers a laid-back vibe along its award-winning “Blue Waves” beach, known for cleanliness, safety, and excellent amenities. With top-notch recreation and eco-friendly activities, it’s a perfect getaway for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Highlights:

• Peaceful “Blue Waves” beach with pristine sand and water
• 976-foot Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier with rentals and lessons
• Regular Environmental Workshops hosted right on the pier
• Quiet Waters Park with fishing, camping, skateboarding, and more
• Home of the unique 2,700-foot cable skiing course

Pro Tip:

Don’t miss sunrise from the pier—it's one of the most peaceful ways to start the day. Want a thrill? Try cable skiing at Quiet Waters Park for a one-of-a-kind water sport experience.

Deerfield Beach, Florida
Located in northern Broward County, South Florida

Seeking a peaceful coastal retreat with natural beauty at every turn? Anna Maria Island, a seven-mile-long barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and mainland Florida, offers stunning white sand beaches, excellent seafood, and unforgettable wildlife encounters in a laid-back setting.

Highlights:

• Pristine beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and shell collecting
• Fantastic fishing and fresh, local seafood
• Water activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and seasonal whale watching
• Designated bird sanctuary—great for birdwatching and photography
• Sea turtle nesting season (May–October) and frequent sightings of dolphins and manatees

Pro Tip:

Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing. Be respectful of marked sea turtle nesting areas, and bring binoculars for prime birdwatching along the coast.

Anna Maria Island, Florida
Located on the Gulf Coast between Tampa Bay and Sarasota

Unique Small Towns

Looking for Old World charm with a coastal twist? Tarpon Springs offers 51 miles of scenic waterfront and a vibrant downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Known for its strong Greek heritage, this unique Gulf Coast town blends rich culture, natural beauty, and historic charm.

Highlights:

• Historic district with 19th-century brick-lined streets and architecture
• Strong Greek influence seen in the town’s cuisine, culture, and buildings
• Home to one of the largest natural sponge beds in the U.S.
• Sponge Docks offer shopping, boat tours, and fresh seafood dining
• Charming boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops downtown

Pro Tip:

Visit the Sponge Docks for a boat tour and authentic Greek meal. Don’t miss the bakery for fresh baklava and a taste of Tarpon Springs’ culinary heritage.

Tarpon Springs, Florida
Located on the Gulf Coast, northwest of Tampa

Love fishing, waterfront charm, and small-town vibes? Stuart, located on Florida’s picturesque Treasure Coast, is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World. With stunning beaches, top-tier seafood, and a walkable downtown, this coastal gem offers something for everyone.

Highlights:

• World-renowned fishing and fresh seafood dining
• Beautiful beaches and scenic waterfront views
• Walkable downtown with shops, cafes, and historic charm
• Stuart Heritage Museum and Road to Victory Military Museum for history lovers
• Sunday green market and live music events near City Hall

Pro Tip:

Plan your visit around a Sunday market day to enjoy local produce, artisan goods, and live music. Anglers should check out local charters for world-class sailfish excursions.

Stuart, Florida
Located on the Treasure Coast, east-central Florida