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Tampa is a fun city in its own right, but many vacationers choose to head just south of the cityscape to enjoy the sun and sand at 2 of America’s most famous beach towns.
That would, of course, be Siesta Key and Clearwater, both of which are in a constant head-to-head battle for the “#1” award year after year.
Although the coastlines south of Tampa are widely considered the best of the best, you never hear much about a trip north of the city because this region is still relatively quiet in terms of traveler interests.
It’s time for that to change.
Why? Because who wouldn’t want to visit hidden white-sand beaches and discover sparkling waters with otherworldly shades of blue?
Swap colorful foliage for pristine turquoise waters
In case you haven’t noticed, people go crazy when fall arrives.
Suddenly, pumpkins are the world’s favorite fruit and leaves are more sought after than toilet paper in 2020.
While there’s nothing wrong with exploring beautiful back roads or lush forests, there’s no bad season for crystal clear water while you bask in the sun, right?
About 90 minutes away is the northern region of Tampa, where some incredible natural areas are waiting to be explored.
In the fall, temperatures are still around 70 degrees, so there’s no need to pack a sweater like most places do now.
Swimwear and a sense of adventure are all you need for the dynamic duo Homosassa and Crystal River.
Homosassa: Florida’s little-known exotic getaway
Homosassa and Homosassa Springs are neighboring towns that go hand in hand in their offerings to tourists.
With an array of wildlife, breathtaking blue waters and small-town Florida charm, you can’t get further away from the bright lights, busy theme parks and overhyped beaches than this.
Homosassa is not just a nice word to say; it’s a fun place to visit, and honestly a mystery why it’s not more popular.
Swimming with manatees? Bill.
Kayak on turquoise waterways reminiscent of Mexico cenotes? Yes, there is that!
An island full of monkeys? Yes, it’s Florida! Are you surprised?!
While Monkey Island may be tempting, but it is a better bet Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park Unpleasant bear witness an array of wildlife, including Florida’s most famous residents, alligators, as well as black bears, red wolves and even wild flamingos.
To your surprise, you might even see a hippo. No, not one of Pablo Escobar’s infamous beasts; this 64 year old former actor now uses Homosassa as a retirement home and even has his own Facebook page.
The park costs only $13 to enter and an extra $3 for a boat ride. Not too shabby, right?
There are plenty of ways to explore Homosassa, including scenic hiking trails, but kayaking is perhaps the most popular method through top companies like Seven sisters kayaks.
While the “Fish Bowl” experience is not to be missed, the State Park offers guests the opportunity to “walk with manatees” and see underwater fish swimming in the spring.
Crystal River: turquoise waterways and a hidden paradise of white sand
Crystal River is a lot like Homosassas, but harbors a secret that only the locals know.
As popular as Florida has become, there are still few unknown beaches worth visiting.
The next time you fly into Tampa, instead of visiting the same-o-same-o that everyone knows, why not give to the neighborhood? Fort Island an opportunity?
Home to wide open white sand beaches. Once you discover this place, you won’t miss the hustle and bustle of Siesta Key.
But there is another secret.
Fort Island isn’t the only pristine beach in the region. Located just south of Homosassa Alfred A. McKethan Pine Island Parka place you will miss, with calm waters and common dolphin sightings.
Admission costs just $5, no wonder it’s so loved by those in the know (4.5 Google rating with over 6,700 reviews!).
That said, Crystal River is not a ‘beach destination’ per se, but is the ‘Manatee Capital of the World’ as a stepping stone to Homosassa.
Make sure you check out Crystal River National Nature Reserve for the best “manatee” spotting while enjoying the same dazzling blue waters that Homosassa has to offer.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
