Florida Spring Named Best Summer Vacation Spot

It always seems when you talk to somebody who isn't from Florida about our state all they can thing of is theme parks and crazy people.  Well, I will admit we are full of crazy people, but Florida is so much more than theme parks. So if your looking for a great vacation spot this summer, move over mouse and bring in the manatee.

Recently 10Best came out with their list of the "10 Best Summer travel Destinations" and the sleepy little laid back town of Crystal River made the list.  While this list might be the first time people from around the country are introduced to Crystal River, as a local we are very lucky to have this absolute gem in our proverbial backyards.

If you have never made the roughly 80 mile trip to Crystal River, it is certainly is something that everyone should make time to do.  Crystal River, located in Citrus County, is the home of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.  The refuge provides a safe and undeveloped habitat for many pieces of birds land animals and sea life, but easily their most popular resident is the manatee.

While seeing the gentle manatee is easily the main attraction in Crystal River, there are so many other things to do.  From quaint hotels and unassuming restaurants, many having plenty of local seafood options, you certainly won't go hungry.  For the person looking to get a little outdoorsy, there are all lines of water activities, from snorkeling and SCUBA diving to pontoon boating and kayaking.  If you are a fisherman, Crystal River  offers a treasure trove of fishing opportunities.

According to the 10Best list Crystal River came in at Number 7.  Not too shabby, although I feel the list is completely arbitrary.  I will say I liked the list because it did stay away for more cliché vacation destinations.  The list had no mention of Theme Parks and no tourists traps.  Even though Chicago made the the list, all of the other top spots are fairly unassuming locations like Door County, WI or Hocking Hills, OH.

10 Best describes Crystal River as  "a magical Gulf Coast town displaying the natural beauty of the Sunshine State without the crowds,” 10Best said.

Co-founder and editor at Family Travel Forum Kyle McCarthy recommends Crystal River "for its laid-back hotels, seafood dining, and opportunities for water sports and golf."

She goes on to say “You may see more manatees in the warm Homosassa Springs water in winter, but the river is beautiful and clear for swimming in summer,” McCarthy said.

If you've never been to Crystal River make some time and plan a trip this summer.

If your wondering what the 10Best top spot was... Mackinac Island, MI.

Summer seemed to have flown by and is almost over! Forget beach days, these natural springs driving distance from Tampa should be on your summer bucket list. Why go to the crowded beach filled with tourists when you can explore some of Florida's natural beauty instead. Many of these state parks are cheaper to visit than a day of parking would cost you on Clearwater beach and are usually less populated, especially if you head there on a weekday. Cool down in the 72-degree water year round, if you're lucky enough you may even spot some manatees. If you really want to make the most out of your trip, consider renting a kayak to get around the river more quickly! It's definitely an underrated work out, plus when you get tired of rowing, you can sit back in your water craft and enjoy the clear water and vegetation around you.

There are so many gorgeous springs and state parks in Florida, but with help from Creative Loafing, we kept our list condensed to areas that are just under a two hour drive out of Tampa. That way you don't have to worry about any overnight fee's or hotel costs. If you plan on making it out to one of these springs, we recommend heading there early as some parks close when the reach capacity.

Have you ever gone tubing down one of these springs? Or had an interaction with the manatees that flock there for the warmer waters in the winter time?

Just 90 minutes north of Tampa will take you to this relaxing getaway. Known for its CRYSTAL clear waters and wildlife residents, this is our top Spring to visit. It will leave you wanting to explore more of Florida's natural beauty.

If you head to Silver Springs State Park, it is highly recommended that you check out the glass bottom boat tour. Experience breathtaking views of underwater life and the many springs that feed the Silver River. Located just an hour and 40 minutes outside of Tampa, this is a great spot to observe wildlife. A 30 minute tour is only $13 for adults.

This spring is commonly known to be the connection to Rainbow River, a popular spring that is common for tubing. Only an hour and half north of Tampa will take you to some of Florida's only waterfalls.

Only one hour from Tampa is a family favorite in the Bay. Weeki Wachee is known for their iconic mermaid shows (which have made a comeback recently) and Buccaneer Bay is one of the most popular spots for families! You can also kayak a self guided tour of the area, which is about 2.8 miles.

Homosassa springs is a great park to take the kids. Only located an hour north of Tampa, families have the opportunity to visit the upper deck of the Underwater Observatory to see some of the fresh & salt water wild life. They also have manatee feedings from 11am, 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.

This park is going to be your closest option to Tampa, located right near the Fishhawk area. It will cost you less than $10 to get into the park ($2 for parking and $2 for swimming.)

Check out the website for more information. 

King's Landing is located directly on the pristine waters of Rocks Springs Run, one of three main tributaries that feeds the Wekiva River Basin. This park is a little bit of a further drive compared to the others on our list but it's definitely worth it. Just north of Orlando you'll find this hidden oasis. Spend the day tubing for just $10 ($5 tube rental and $5 admission) or book a self guided kayak tour where you can possibly encounter river otters, turtles, birds and other wildlife!