Ten places in Florida where FLORIDIANS go on Vacation

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  • Опубликовано: 23 янв 2025

Комментарии • 670

  • @ElrohirGuitar
    @ElrohirGuitar 11 месяцев назад +103

    Kinda tough watching this. We came to Florida in 1955 and lived in Jacksonville, Key Biscayne, West Hollywood, Coral Gables, Winter Haven, and Gainesville. My father's business took him all over and often we would get to travel with him to all these areas you mention and quite a few others. Florida was so much different back in those times and I can only be grateful that I could experience it that way.

    • @naturalPaths
      @naturalPaths 9 месяцев назад +8

      We moved here in 1984 - very different from your entry. Still so very different from ‘84 till now.

    • @woodchuck9344
      @woodchuck9344 6 месяцев назад

      ​@@naturalPathsand you

    • @elliebellie7816
      @elliebellie7816 6 месяцев назад +3

      Same here. In 1965 we rented a cottage at PC Beach and there wasn't a hotel/motel/huge ugly condo buildilng/swimming pool/grocery store/or bar anywhere in sight. Only one little tourist shop. The State used to have covered picnic sites along Highway 98 right by the beach where anybody could stop and have a picnic. We could drive all the way to Pensacola passing by a few mom and pop beach hotels but not one single high-rise hotel or condo. I really miss those days.

    • @scottw5315
      @scottw5315 4 месяца назад +1

      America has grown up and some places are not what they were in days gone by. Still, I wouldn't live anywhere else in the world. I'm a South Carolinian who spent about four years in Pensacola with the Navy. Loved my time in Florida.

    • @NicEeEe843
      @NicEeEe843 3 месяца назад

      @@elliebellie7816wtf is wrong with a grocery story?? 🤣

  • @Thom1560
    @Thom1560 10 месяцев назад +19

    Ocean Grill Vero Beach one of my Five Favorite restaurants

    • @Floridiots
      @Floridiots 9 месяцев назад

      The cajun prime rib is great.

  • @paulntpa1122
    @paulntpa1122 11 месяцев назад +120

    Tampa here. Great video. My favorite is Siesta Key, where the crystal fine sand squeaks between your toes !

    • @SunshineStateInsider
      @SunshineStateInsider  11 месяцев назад +7

      Siesta Key is my favorite beach in Florida!

    • @RussellD11
      @RussellD11 11 месяцев назад +3

      I Live by siesta Key and hate it.

    • @joseamor9319
      @joseamor9319 11 месяцев назад +13

      ​@@RussellD11YOU SHOULD MOVE THEN!!

    • @mfhairstream6812
      @mfhairstream6812 11 месяцев назад

      @@RussellD11 Maybe try move on the key. I would not want to live by siesta too

    • @willjam465
      @willjam465 11 месяцев назад

      Siesta Key has been a favorite for 35 about years.

  • @latinaalma1947
    @latinaalma1947 9 месяцев назад +7

    I used to live on St Simons Island , Ga right ON East Beach terrific island to bring up my daughter who became a career CG helicopter pilot...I was a professor and administrator at the college on the mainland. We loved visiting St. Augustine...some lovely restaurants but is has been 25 years...the hop on hop off transpotation was something we used even then.
    Fernadina was a short hop away....sleepy little village back then..very similar to the Ga. sea islands.

    • @markraven7316
      @markraven7316 17 дней назад

      Georgia Seafood Grill, love that place, shout out to St Simons

  • @StacySelah
    @StacySelah 10 месяцев назад +11

    11:11 I Love Sebastian inlet so much I named my Son after it…
    Shalom from a Native Floridian

  • @Captkid1
    @Captkid1 11 месяцев назад +340

    I am a Native Floridian and honestly, I won’t tell people my favorite beaches and fishing spots. Because I would be heart broken if they turned into a tourist spot. But there are a lot of GOOD beaches to visit. Cedar Key is a great place to go for a get away type place to go. Crystal River has a lot to offer vacationers. St. John’s river, Fort Desoto, many state parks that are largely natural while still well maintained… So many places to go. Skip the travel guide brochure and do some hiking into what you want. Bring a camera, Native Florida is unique and beautiful.

    • @caryn9561
      @caryn9561 11 месяцев назад +18

      But you just told everyone on the world wide web haha.

    • @Captkid1
      @Captkid1 11 месяцев назад +30

      @@caryn9561 No, I did not tell my favorite places or beaches. I told of some Nice places to go. My favorite beaches and fishing spot won’t come up on any google search. You just have to know or find them while exploring.

    • @immar1075
      @immar1075 11 месяцев назад +11

      I feel as you do and I came here hoping not to see my area of FL. Unfortunately it won't be long everything is growing so fast in FL.

    • @Captkid1
      @Captkid1 11 месяцев назад +13

      @@immar1075 Yeah, over a million people a year moving here now from socially failed states. Unfortunately, it is almost for certain they will destroy Florida too. Makes me cringe when I look at California. I visited there back in the 80s. It wasn’t Florida, but it was nice. Now half my neighbors here are from California, escaping social deterioration. Keaton Beach area is filling up with New Yorkers escaping Social deterioration there. Folks from PA come here in droves too. Went down to a great fishing cove and natural beach the other day. It is down a winding, bumpy seven mile dirt road that after a storm requires a four wheel drive. The cove had several out of state mud boats just running back and forth thru the fishing area. They had twenty or so people on the beach drinking, being loud and arguing at times. Their 4 wheel drive truck had tore the beach all up trying to launch their boats (no boat ramp there) and there wasn’t a fish to be caught in the cove. A glimpse of the future ai suppose.

    • @immar1075
      @immar1075 11 месяцев назад +12

      @@Captkid1 I remember places like that. You could fish all day and not see another person. We better enjoy what we have while we have it.

  • @AmericanConstellation
    @AmericanConstellation 11 месяцев назад +38

    I do and always have lived on the beach in Florida, just south of Clearwater Beach. I have a boat and any day on the water when it's warm is a blessing.

  • @lindab5789
    @lindab5789 11 месяцев назад +44

    Life-long Floridian here...just a note for those that may not know. "The Season" for Florida is different in the various parts of the state. I am sure there are some exceptions, but in general the busier season for mid to south Florida is the winter. Whereas summer is the busiest time in the Panhandle and the northern part of the Atlantic coast. North Florida can be quite cool by southern standards during the winter, so tourists tend to be from more northern locations during the winter. We have visited all the spots mentioned in the video and really prefer visiting during the 'off season'.

    • @villagaiac55
      @villagaiac55 8 месяцев назад +1

      even Key West water is freezing in January. Only the Norwegians got in.

    • @ChatGPT1111
      @ChatGPT1111 8 месяцев назад +1

      Life-long Floridian....but you're only 18 years old 😂😂😂

    • @bubblelaydy
      @bubblelaydy 6 месяцев назад

      ​@@ChatGPT1111 Jesus I knew chatgpt was stupid sometimes but not this stupid... Apparently it doesn't know what life-long means 🤣

    • @webking185
      @webking185 5 месяцев назад

      ​@@villagaiac55freezing? Water is 65f, dont think thats freezing bud in the KW.

    • @faithrada
      @faithrada 17 дней назад

      ​@webking185 In the Gulf Stream area by Delray Beach... we held out for at least 72 degrees. before we jumped in.😅 65 deg. Is stoic. 😮

  • @jennifertiitinen9006
    @jennifertiitinen9006 10 месяцев назад +9

    Blowing Rocks is super unique and awesome and on Jupiter Island

    • @Patrick-yh5yd
      @Patrick-yh5yd 2 месяца назад

      Palm Beach is closer to the Gulf Stream than anywhere in the world. Why Jimmy Buffitt lived there. SHH!! Don,t tell anyone!!!

  • @bedazzled64
    @bedazzled64 11 месяцев назад +52

    I'm a FL Native, and one place I love is New Smyrna Beach. Went there alot as a kid and it really hasn't changed that much. I also love Sanibel and the Keys!

    • @SunshineStateInsider
      @SunshineStateInsider  11 месяцев назад +4

      I totally almost included New Smyrna! Only reason I I didn’t is because it’s a little close to Cocoa Beach and I wanted to spread them out a bit. 😃

    • @ChatGPT1111
      @ChatGPT1111 11 месяцев назад +9

      @@SunshineStateInsiderpeople who live in Cocoa Beach go to New Smyrna. Cocoa Beach is where the Orlando crazies go.

    • @richardjohnson8114
      @richardjohnson8114 11 месяцев назад +8

      New Smyrna is a top surfing destination.

    • @danip3270
      @danip3270 11 месяцев назад +5

      Please don’t add some of these. I’m not a native, but I’ve been here decades. I’m in Flagler, and there are already enough entitled tourists that flood into here. Not just the regular tourists, who are very welcome. There are a lot of tourists who come in, heavy drinking, road rage, trashing quiet beaches and parks, and insult/belligerent locals. I’ve seen nasty behavior at the beach that seems to get worse. I just wish tourists and newer locals would read a few of the rules….like no harassing manatees or letting dogs loose in areas they’re not permitted. We should all be respectful of where we visit.

    • @villagaiac55
      @villagaiac55 8 месяцев назад +1

      sharks!!

  • @vanman8526
    @vanman8526 10 месяцев назад +82

    All of those are the tourist traps I avoid as a resident vacationing. Thank you for pointing non residents in the right direction 😊😂

    • @jamesm2577
      @jamesm2577 8 месяцев назад +3

      Delray is only about 10 miles away so I've gone there to eat a few times but parking is all commercialized & it became too easy to get ticketed for the downtown area. morikami *is* a fairly cool place to visit at least once even if I thought it was in boca

    • @edchaput3577
      @edchaput3577 6 месяцев назад +4

      I live in Vero Beach and it is far from a tourist trap.

    • @ron88303
      @ron88303 4 месяца назад +1

      @@edchaput3577 Same for 30A outside of Destin.

  • @LibbyRal
    @LibbyRal 10 месяцев назад +11

    Since RVing became the rage, Florida's best kept secret is just about any of its state parks, and those with campgrounds. I won't tell you my favorite, but I've yet to get the most coveted camping spot there which is right on the small river that runs through it ;)
    In the St Pete area, a trip up to Honeymoon Island to catch the ferry to Caledesi Island is a must. And any of the other successful downtown areas in that county - Gulfport, Dunedin, and Safety Harbor.

    • @KristaMiller
      @KristaMiller 10 месяцев назад +1

      Sounds like my hometown... Starts with an A, ends with an a? ;)

    • @bearball49
      @bearball49 10 месяцев назад +1

      I had roots in Dunedin. Visited my uncle there often. Raised spending summers with my grands in StPetersburg. I was there from 1958 on. Miss it so much. My spirit home. Can't afford it now. It has been about 15 years since I have been back.

  • @sharonwilson2450
    @sharonwilson2450 6 месяцев назад +18

    Not from Florida, but love Cocoa Beach, Flagler Beach, Sanibel Island, John's Pass, and St. Augustine is my absolute favorite place to visit.

  • @thomasm9139
    @thomasm9139 11 месяцев назад +46

    I'm 67 years old now, when I was a teenager everyone you met who said they were from Florida, their parents were from New York, Massachusetts, or Michigan.

    • @DM-right
      @DM-right 11 месяцев назад +2

      Which is why most southerners don’t claim Florida as southern anymore. Very few Floridians. North Georgia (my home) is becoming the same way.

    • @brucefranklin6765
      @brucefranklin6765 11 месяцев назад +10

      I’m 65 and a 4th generation Floridian. My family was one of the first to settle in the Panhandle. We now have 6 generations!

    • @geekasauruswreks8789
      @geekasauruswreks8789 10 месяцев назад +8

      Old Floridian family member here. My family helped settle Kenansville, Fl. At the time St. Cloud, Fl didn't exist. My ancestors helped to settle St. Cloud and Kissimmee, too. The old cemetary in Kenansville belonged to my great great grandfather (...I think. I'm not exactly sure how many generations back.). He sold it to the county for $1 to give back to the communnity and they used it as a cemetary. Morbidly, I have a grave with my name on it because my family pays a very reduced fee to be buried there.
      If anyone is familiar with Saint Cloud, Fl (a not so small town now and I miss the old days of course) there's a neighboorhood there called Stevens' Plantation. That property belonged to my Great Aunt. She sold it off a few years before she died to a developer. In some ways it's a shame she sold it, but it was hers to do with as she wished. They called it Stevens' Plantation in honor of the family.
      I have no idea how many generations back we go as native Floridians, but it's quite a bit. I'm positive of at least seven generations including the current ones, but I know we go further back than that. One of my cousins paid for ancestory work. I need to meet up with her to discuss it. Life's just so busy!
      Old Floridian families are a dying breed. Many don't like how big our small towns have become. I'm thinking of moving myself. Partially because I've never lived outside of Florida but mostly because of how overcrowded it is. The cities and counties sell so much land to developers without making sure there's infrastructure to support that many people. Now traffic is horrible. Everything is crowded. It's a mess!
      I'm from St. Cloud, past tense. I lived there well into adulthood and I've watched it go from a city with two restaurants, one stop light, and the downtown area to a city that is almost unrecognizable as the place I grew up. I love the Ocala area, to be more accurate the area outside Ocala, but I think it's only a matter of time before it becomes over populated here as well. It's beautiful, though.
      I love my home state. There are so many things we have here that can be taken for granted but that can make for an amazing life. I don't begrudge the people who have decided to move here. I only wish the cities and counties would provide more infrastructure instead of just chasing the almighty dollar. Sorry for such a long comment. Apparently I had things to say. lol

    • @geekasauruswreks8789
      @geekasauruswreks8789 10 месяцев назад +8

      @@DM-right we have a saying. Florida becomes more Southern the further North you travel. lol Not always the case, but the saying caught on for a reason.

    • @daleupthegrove6396
      @daleupthegrove6396 10 месяцев назад

      I grew up in St. Cloud in the 60's and just recently moved back. Sure, a lot has changed but a lot has stayed the same. Downtown has the same buildings when I was a kid with only a very few changes. Yes the town has changed but so have I. Without change things just stagnate, the trick is to embrace it and turn it to your advantage.@@geekasauruswreks8789

  • @stevem-h5e
    @stevem-h5e 9 месяцев назад +9

    The Southwest coast of Florida is the best. Last year I brought my metal detector and was able to greatly expand my collection of roofing nails.

  • @leighanncronin6905
    @leighanncronin6905 11 месяцев назад +25

    I'm a native Floridian and my favorite beach is on Casey Key. My parents always took us there on vacation. And we've always returned there just about every summer. It's also in Sarasota County and is like Anna Maria Island as it doesn't have high-rise condos. It's absolutely beautiful and not over run by people. Venice Beach is just south, and Siesta Key to the north.❤

    • @YvonneTheArtist
      @YvonneTheArtist 11 месяцев назад

      Doesn’t that area have an issue with red tide and what about the pesticide spill in Tampa Bay? I always wonder where the cleanest water (and skies) are in Florida. I’ve been in FTL for two years and I’m not feeling “at home”.

    • @alabamagirl2725
      @alabamagirl2725 11 месяцев назад +1

      I am 55 and still love jumping off the little bridge. Been here since 74

  • @jdemille79
    @jdemille79 11 месяцев назад +45

    As an Atlantan, I can tell you Destin is NOT a secret here. Probably the most popular place we go.

    • @debbiet-t.3773
      @debbiet-t.3773 10 месяцев назад +5

      And it’s just as much of a Tourist Trap as Panama City Beach & 30A etc, only it’s going to cost you an arm & a leg !!! Bring a TON of Money, you’re going to need it. Millionaires all live on 3O A !!!

    • @OceanSoul1969
      @OceanSoul1969 9 месяцев назад +2

      Not a secret in Louisiana either!

    • @AffirmativeAffirMATE
      @AffirmativeAffirMATE 7 месяцев назад

      Stay yo weird ass away

    • @AffirmativeAffirMATE
      @AffirmativeAffirMATE 7 месяцев назад

      @@OceanSoul1969stay out y’all can’t drive

    • @ACommenterOnYouTube
      @ACommenterOnYouTube 6 месяцев назад

      We go to Destin every other year and hit Crab Island 2 times that week

  • @StacheTB
    @StacheTB 11 месяцев назад +6

    20 years as a resident of the Tampa Bay Area and really, we staycation right here most of the time but our go to out-of-town vacation is absolutely St. Augustine.

  • @tiffanynguyen4126
    @tiffanynguyen4126 10 месяцев назад +4

    St. Pete beach is my #1 favorite beach for tourists! I like convenient stores and restaurants within walking distance ❤

  • @ElrohirGuitar
    @ElrohirGuitar 11 месяцев назад +4

    I used to go to Ana Maria in the early seventies. I don't remember all those houses and buildings. We just went to the beach and enjoyed the day.

  • @LuFrednow4U
    @LuFrednow4U 10 месяцев назад +21

    DEL BOCA VISTA!! (Frank Costanza voice). 😄

    • @SaltyDawg71
      @SaltyDawg71 6 месяцев назад +3

      🤣🤣🤣

    • @erikaerika7788
      @erikaerika7788 4 месяца назад +2

      Delboca vista ,,,😂😂😂😂😂 its actually delray beach and boca raton 😂😂😂😂😂😂

    • @suzabella8516
      @suzabella8516 2 месяца назад +2

      Serenity Now!

  • @davidroberts8760
    @davidroberts8760 9 месяцев назад +2

    Im with you on that Anna Marie Island is Beautiful and very calm ,Seista key is Second as its close to everything!!! Dave Roberts Inverness Florida 💯🎯🔥

  • @biker1385
    @biker1385 11 месяцев назад +6

    Marco Island! Been going there annually for Labor Day since the 70’s. It’s changed a lot, but the beach is spectacular and wide with accommodations from high end hotels (JW Marriott comes to mind) to rentals. 😊

  • @kimmorgano8778
    @kimmorgano8778 11 месяцев назад +6

    I'm a native and have been to all of these places. My fav is anywhere in the Keys. I'd live there if I could afford it! I AM one of the natives that enjoys long weekend vacations here. Nice video.

  • @kevinellis8307
    @kevinellis8307 10 месяцев назад +3

    No Siesta Key, Lido key, Longboat key… St. Armands Circle ⭕️…. ? Btw, you have a very pleasant voice to listen to, especially at 3:30am. Thank you for your excellent program!!

    • @bethlyons6395
      @bethlyons6395 10 месяцев назад +1

      Yes you do your voice is very easy to listen to. You would be great as newscaster or talkshow host etc.

  • @Suzie1996
    @Suzie1996 6 месяцев назад +4

    Pass a grille is by far the most beautiful beach there is and I’ve been lucky to live there all my life. ❤️

  • @cybermavenmusic
    @cybermavenmusic 5 месяцев назад +2

    This list is perfect for tourists. I’d never betray the locations I treasure so much. The second RUclips channels uncover lovely places, it gets ruined by ‘influencers’ who don’t care. Everything gets expensive and traffic gets unbearable.

  • @michaelgolebiewski2099
    @michaelgolebiewski2099 23 дня назад +2

    For those of us up in central Florida, New Smyrna Beach is a favorite. Has the old Florida vibe while still providing great restaurants and accommodations. Plus you can drive on the beach with your car which is very convenient.

  • @lishaniacanseco3885
    @lishaniacanseco3885 10 месяцев назад +4

    This was incredibly helpful for avoiding the tourist traps 🐚. Thanks for sharing these gems! 🗺️❤️

  • @SunPrincipe
    @SunPrincipe 11 месяцев назад +6

    Cocoa Beach here. Lots of great food and gorgeous beaches here. Your clip did not do us justice.

    • @vanman8526
      @vanman8526 10 месяцев назад

      Commercialized

    • @vanman8526
      @vanman8526 10 месяцев назад

      Tourist trap

    • @vanman8526
      @vanman8526 10 месяцев назад

      Fun to party there tho!

    • @crashdsnowman1
      @crashdsnowman1 8 месяцев назад

      So you want more tourist to make your spot crowded, I'm glad he didn't mention our location.

  • @brian7224
    @brian7224 9 месяцев назад +1

    Dunedin State Park (Honeymoon Island) off alt.US19 near Clearwater is another good one! Shellfish collectors and Sand Dollar chasers go there.There is also a boat that can take you to the island to enjoy also...A must see!

  • @Defx10
    @Defx10 11 месяцев назад +24

    Yep, the secret is definitely out about Anna Maria Island, unfortunately. It happened in just that past 3 years or so too. It's not bad in the summer, but in the winter it's a nightmare now.

    • @Captkid1
      @Captkid1 11 месяцев назад +4

      When I was a kid we would have Hobie Cat races a couple times a year. We would race from St. Pete Beach to Anna Maria Island. Sleep on the Beach, have a big bon fire party. Then race back the next day. It was a blast. Florida will never be like that again unless we preserve it.

    • @TheJeffcurran
      @TheJeffcurran 10 месяцев назад

      I've been wanting to go there, but yeah, the secret is out.

  • @WaterBug46
    @WaterBug46 11 месяцев назад +3

    We live close enough to the Cape that launches shake our house and set the dogs off. We prefer NSB over Cocoa for a town beach but the wild beaches on Cape/wildlife refuge property are the best in my opinion. No condos or houses. Just miles of coastal wilderness.

  • @JoshuaTraffanstedt
    @JoshuaTraffanstedt 9 месяцев назад +9

    We almost moved to Florida when i was a kid back in 97 or 98. My step dad almost took a job there, but he ended up not taking it at the last minute. I sometimes wonder how differently life would have turned out if wed moved. If nothing else, what a great place to spend your teenage years and early 20s!

    • @crashdsnowman1
      @crashdsnowman1 8 месяцев назад

      Florida has been in rapid decline since the 80s. Orlando was already a rat race by 88.

  • @bigrich6750
    @bigrich6750 6 месяцев назад +3

    I’ve lived in Pensacola for 50 years. Occasionally, I go to the Keys for lobster diving, and occasionally go to Port Saint Joe for scallops, but I have no interest in visiting anywhere else in Florida. Pensacola has everything I love.

  • @zipadeedooda7938
    @zipadeedooda7938 11 месяцев назад +7

    Been to all these places, and all have their charm. St. Augustine is my favorite, followed by the Keys. Driving down from St. Augustine along A1A to Flagler Beach is really nice. Another great area is Panama City to Panacea along US 98. Apalachicola in particular is a great place to stay to check out he area.

  • @kellyn7184
    @kellyn7184 10 месяцев назад +9

    We live in beautiful St. Augustine. Visit in September if you want to avoid tourists! ❤

  • @pennybaxter4
    @pennybaxter4 11 месяцев назад +15

    Pass -a-grill beach is beautiful “ I was staying at the don cesar in 2019 and I had been to pass -a -grill 20 yrs previous and going back 20 yrs later nothing has changed which was so nice , such a lovely informative video thank you . Kind regards Philip essex uk 🇬🇧

    • @johnhoke6055
      @johnhoke6055 8 месяцев назад +1

      Shhhhhhhh

    • @justinbartlett4711
      @justinbartlett4711 8 месяцев назад +1

      I really recommend not going out far swimming at pass a grille -- especially near the jetty. That current rips pretty hard.

    • @pennybaxter4
      @pennybaxter4 8 месяцев назад

      @@justinbartlett4711 thanks very much for the info it’s much appreciated

  • @blueskypicks
    @blueskypicks 11 месяцев назад +5

    I'm from West Ga. and my wife is from coastal S.C. Of the places in this video, we've been to Destin and St. Augustine but just driven through Key Largo and Islamorada. We love Key West, Matlacha, Dunedin as well as the other places I mentioned. It broke our hearts to see Matlacha so devastated. I hope they are recovering.

    • @crashdsnowman1
      @crashdsnowman1 8 месяцев назад

      The Keys are so crowded during the tourist season (Nov-April) it is unreal now. Bumper to bumper traffic at 50 mph from key Largo all the way to KW(takes 2 hours to go100 miles). I can't tell you how many times I hear tourist say the beaches are nasty and there is nothing for kids to do in KW. Odd that they don't research a little before coming down here.

  • @365sol.travel
    @365sol.travel 10 дней назад +1

    Such a great video! 🌴 It's refreshing to see the hidden gems and local favorites in Florida highlighted like this. Ana Maria Island and St. Augustine are definitely on my list now, and I love how you included details about each spot's unique vibe. Thanks for showcasing places where Floridians vacation-it's a perfect reminder that there's so much beauty to explore right here in the Sunshine State. Can't wait for your next video! ☀✨

  • @staceyroberts3468
    @staceyroberts3468 10 месяцев назад +1

    We live by Anna Maria island and it is naturally beautiful. You can walk to so many shops and restaurants right in the heart of the island. The beach has been left very natural with a native trees and greenery. It’s very quiet and you won’t see amusement parks or rides anywhere. The beach is sprinkled with nicer restaurants and more casual places to grab a drink or quick meal. More souvenir shops and little specialty shops than clothing. There are plenty of picnic areas and restrooms in shaded areas and some cute begging squirrels running around. Haha. Getting a place to stay on the island has gotten very expensive in the last few years. That’s the only negative 🥴

  • @lightfrequency8032
    @lightfrequency8032 11 месяцев назад +9

    Buddy you’re giving away all our secrets. Lol 😊

  • @WanderBliss_YT
    @WanderBliss_YT Месяц назад +1

    I lived in Vero Beach for a decade; it is beautiful and it is like being on a Caribbean Island holiday all year long!✈😎🏖

  • @genointampa
    @genointampa 11 месяцев назад +13

    I live in Tampa and want to thank you for not mentioning my favorite local beach. The best beach for lots of space.

  • @susanbecker5610
    @susanbecker5610 10 месяцев назад +21

    Great video. I'm gonna be an annoying animal person and say please don't collect shells. I'm a hermit crab enthusiast and can tell you that because of the lack of shells, hermit crab populations are suffering. Any spiral types without holes are useful to them and they're crucial for their survival. Please throw them back into the water or place them somewhere where they may be less likely to be found by tourists. There are also places like, Crustacean Plantation (located in the Florida Keys), where you can donate shells you already have for wild land hermit crabs. Most hermit crabs are strictly aquatic though, so tossing them back into the water is best.
    I love this video. I moved to Florida 6 years ago and finding places that are less "touristy" is always a wonderful thing.

    • @Tdizzle11
      @Tdizzle11 18 дней назад +2

      Wow, I don’t collect shells, but had no idea this was an issue. Thank you so much for educating us.
      You have such a beautiful heart. 🙏🏼❤️

    • @susanbecker5610
      @susanbecker5610 9 дней назад +1

      @Tdizzle11 In Florida it's not as bad as Japan. If you look up Okinawa Nature Photography, you'll see what I mean. I'm not sure if he has a RUclips channel, but he's got an Instagram and Facebook page.

  • @polidentpelosi4367
    @polidentpelosi4367 2 месяца назад +2

    3:00
    I'll save you a LOT if time and frustration.
    Skip Sanibel and Captiva.
    Takes an hour just to get over the bridge these days.
    Super overcrowded.
    The whole charm of the place was small town Florida, laid back, slow pace, low prices.
    None of those exist anymore.
    If you have hours to kill, dont want to get out of the car and love sitting in traffic, by all means, GO!

  • @CigarsNTequila
    @CigarsNTequila 11 месяцев назад +2

    Living in St.Iohns , we love St Augustine. Some great Dining and fun taverns to hang out at. Two other great places we love to hang out are Neptune Beach(north end of Jax beach) Great little area, small little beach town with hotels and homes, great restaurants and shopping and awesome beach. And Fernandina beach to the north corner of Florida is a beautiful old town, Victorian feel n vibe, with great local shopping, and also some excellent restaurants 😊😊

  • @NoMam-h3c
    @NoMam-h3c 11 месяцев назад +14

    Tallahassee’n here! We love to day trip to St. George island ❤

    • @macjrc
      @macjrc 11 месяцев назад

      Why did you say this??? Wtf it completely sucks. Noseeums and sand fleas always biting and way too expensive.

    • @NoMam-h3c
      @NoMam-h3c 11 месяцев назад +1

      @@macjrc I said day trip dang! I like going for the 4th.. Give it a break!😩

    • @travelandeats8518
      @travelandeats8518 11 месяцев назад

      My sis is in Tallahassee. Shout out tally. I love chubbies. Destin beach was dope

  • @carteldesanta2958
    @carteldesanta2958 10 месяцев назад +3

    Thanks for this 🌻! It’s refreshing to see vacation spots in Florida that aren’t just the usual tourist destinations. Can’t wait to explore 🚤🌺.

  • @BureauKat
    @BureauKat 11 месяцев назад +4

    My favorite place is Morikami Gardens. Another fun place to visit is the Yellow and Green market in Hollywood.

    • @peggymininson4359
      @peggymininson4359 12 дней назад

      Yeah its beautiful I used to be a member. Love the yellow green market.

  • @unknown-user
    @unknown-user 8 месяцев назад +5

    I’ve visted family in an area called Tarpon Springs. Beaches have the local feel to them. Not a lot of commercial activity.

    • @susanmacmaster5804
      @susanmacmaster5804 5 месяцев назад

      Tarpon Springs gas yummy Greek food too!

    • @erikaerika7788
      @erikaerika7788 4 месяца назад

      Please dont tell them 😮😮😮😮

  • @OsvaldoMiranda-g4h
    @OsvaldoMiranda-g4h 10 месяцев назад +1

    Absolutely loved this insider's guide 🌿! Thanks for showing us where Floridians truly enjoy their time off 🌴🌞.

  • @secondeve610
    @secondeve610 11 месяцев назад +3

    I live in Venice on the island. I'm sad when more high rise condos get built but honestly it's about as built up as you can get now. It's still like a small town and quaint. Not many chains on the island. Low key and relaxing for the most part.

    • @ddesouz6
      @ddesouz6 11 месяцев назад +1

      I live in northern palm Beach County. It’s changed so much. I have friends in Venice and we’re considering moving there this summer. I miss the small town vibes. I’m looking for a nice place to raise my kiddos.

    • @tommack8650
      @tommack8650 9 месяцев назад +2

      Sshhhhh...

  • @freedomwanderer
    @freedomwanderer 11 месяцев назад +3

    My first visit to Cocoa Beach was love at first sight. I have been there for several get aways over the past few years. Definitly my favorite. Thanks for sharing.

    • @lightskinxxvvxx7334
      @lightskinxxvvxx7334 5 месяцев назад +1

      I'm telling you yo Florida is a great place to live or visit it truly is peaceful, great beach weather, too

  • @jontooke846
    @jontooke846 11 месяцев назад +6

    I love your posts I always dreamed about living there. Thanks so much for your important post's

  • @dougwilson9591
    @dougwilson9591 10 месяцев назад +3

    Punta Gorda Venice Nakomis are freaking beautiful, everybody should see Manasota Beach!

  • @ritat1
    @ritat1 12 дней назад +1

    Beautifully-done video - thank you!

  • @randombird3264
    @randombird3264 11 месяцев назад +38

    Become a Park Ranger in the Florida park service, that way you can be on vacation everyday.

    • @himynameis6502
      @himynameis6502 10 месяцев назад +7

      Unfortunately it doesn’t pay a living wage. Especially living in Florida.

    • @1800moonSugar
      @1800moonSugar 2 месяца назад

      And get paid 15$ an hour unable to afford rent.

  • @NathanBd-zw5pt
    @NathanBd-zw5pt День назад

    As a long term Floridian, I just love the springs. Most are within State Parks. Also I like the Forgotten Coast. A little remote, but very nice.

  • @TravelwithTravelarii
    @TravelwithTravelarii 11 месяцев назад +4

    Interesting Insights! Great overview of Florida's coastal gems. Thanks for the tips on off-the-beaten-path spots!

  • @josueramirez8385
    @josueramirez8385 10 месяцев назад +1

    Great to see a video that shows the local spots 🦩! Thanks for sharing these Florida vacation secrets 🙏🏼🏖️.

  • @Rubbernecker
    @Rubbernecker 24 дня назад

    Melbourne here, great video! As a native Floridian I've certainly heard of all these places but haven't visited a few. You're given me some ideas! Thanks!

  • @davehumphries2337
    @davehumphries2337 Месяц назад +1

    Cocoa beach . Beach,pier, Ron Jon’s, cruises & Fishlips food & Cruise ship watching, Beach Walks. 👍😎🇨🇦

  • @Nofakenewsorfinds
    @Nofakenewsorfinds 4 месяца назад +1

    Thank you for this video you saved my life I live here in Florida and is good to find these spots I am going to visit 3 of them thanks to you .

  • @martinzenor7449
    @martinzenor7449 6 месяцев назад +3

    Sanibel is still in rough shape almost two years after Ian. Only a few businesses have reopened. The beach around the lighthouse is completely gone and the gulf laps at the base. Plus traffic to the island and to get off the island is insane because of all the construction vehicles.

    • @UserHorologium
      @UserHorologium 5 месяцев назад

      There has been a good deal of effort to replenish the beach near the lighthouse. We just returned from a week-long stay on Sanibel, and the beach around the lighthouse is wider than it was before Charlie, let alone Ian. I've been coming to Sanibel since 1974 (we own a *top notch* timeshare), and while the island has not recovered from Ian, there should be a good deal of activity before the snowbird season kicks in. Some places will not return (RIP DQ), but most of the familiar names along Periwinkle Way will be back by October.

  • @jillkinsman4068
    @jillkinsman4068 5 месяцев назад +1

    I grew up in St Pete and love the beach there…now live in Seattle but come down often on vacation. We got married at Pass a Grille Community church with reception at the Don Cesar so we usually go for reakfast or a drink on the beach when we are there. Love it!

  • @petegregory517
    @petegregory517 5 месяцев назад +1

    I live in Daytona, beachside, on the Halifax, 3 blocks to beach. Been on the beach 3 x's in last 5ish years, been here 13.
    We go to GA and SC mountains.

  • @nas10iris
    @nas10iris 16 дней назад

    Jetty Park, Christmas, Pompano Beach, Indialantic Beach, plus the ones you listed. I love going to STA every year during MLK weekend to see the lights after everyone has left. I hope to get to every beach here before I move!!!

  • @frankgiuliano380
    @frankgiuliano380 6 месяцев назад +1

    As a Native, to Florida we traveled a lot, never leaving Florida or the Coast of Georgia. Love Florida so much... truly paradise.
    We settled on Amelia island Florida to live the forever "Salt life". Now we never want to leave.. It's basically great people, amazing beaches, best fishing in Florida too. The history and nature here in NE Florida is just amazing.

  • @BudHenry
    @BudHenry 24 дня назад

    I grew up in Flagler Beach in the 80s and 90s. A1A and 8th street south. Now I live in the Keys between Islamorada and Marathon.

  • @claredegroff1491
    @claredegroff1491 9 месяцев назад +1

    Bradenton beach coquina beach north lideo south lideo beaches mag. Magnificent! Siesta key. The west Coast is just special with the white white sand just enough wave & beautiful water with changing colors depending on the lighting & clouds

  • @sbeshear11
    @sbeshear11 6 месяцев назад +5

    You completely missed the quaint little towns in the panhandle like Mexico Beach (still recovering from hurricane Michael that most people have forgotten about) and Port St Joe. By the way, I’m a Floridian who lives in Panama Ciry.

    • @cybermavenmusic
      @cybermavenmusic 5 месяцев назад

      No need to ruin it and make it Miami.

  • @donaldbaker1474
    @donaldbaker1474 11 дней назад

    The only place I haven't been to in this video is Flagler Beach. I agree with this list. Love these places which I have vacationed at many times. Place not mentioned is Ft. Desoto, close to St. Pete Beach. This is a great place. Beaches are beautiful, great fishing, can hike, has an old fort to tour & has some hiking. Campground there is a great spot. Another favorite of mine is Marathon, just west of Islamorada. A lot to do there & not overly touristy like Key West.

  • @theinspiredhomedecor
    @theinspiredhomedecor 11 месяцев назад +10

    I lived in Florida for 6 years. I always told the tourist to go to the larger beaches.
    I liked Fort De Soto, Indian Rocks, Dunedin Causeway/Honeymoon Island and the beach near New Port Richey. I can’t remember the name.

    • @brian7224
      @brian7224 9 месяцев назад +1

      The one in Hudson is Sam's it is a restaurant / bar right on the intracoastal waterway. there is a small but quaint beach there...No waves...it is the gulf coast so there are none.Excellent food and fair prices and a hotel right across the street. Also in Crystal River on Fort Island Trail at the end is a nice beach with restroom and water accommodations and a public boat ramp to boot.

  • @shozrocks6307
    @shozrocks6307 11 месяцев назад +1

    Great video! Definitely gave me some ideas to consider for my next Florida trip. Ty!

  • @sandyfox9925
    @sandyfox9925 7 месяцев назад +1

    We own a condo on Little GasparillaIsland right next-door to Boca grande but only accessible by boat and ferry since there’s no bridges no cars. Very much old Florida as there’s no stores or restaurants either - bring everything in your cooler and enjoy the beach almost to yourself!

  • @AmericanConstellation
    @AmericanConstellation 11 месяцев назад +3

    I've lived in Florida all my life, 66 years. I've been to everywhere in Florida. I've seen it all. I think as for beaches, the best beaches are on the Central Florida Gulf Coast. Panama and Pensacola is nice as well.

    • @living_dead_girl_1884
      @living_dead_girl_1884 4 месяца назад

      Perdido Key going towards the Alabama line is also very nice. Keep going towards Orange Beach, Alabama and it’s still beautiful.

  • @aguptill1
    @aguptill1 12 дней назад

    COCOA BEACH is our go-to from Canada 🇨🇦! We love this area as we see some of the same folks every year. Even though it’s a tourist area, it still has a more laid back feel to it than say Orlando area. Thanks for the great video, tours, & tips! GRAMMY G 🌴🏝️🏖️😎

  • @fitzwilliamdarcy5263
    @fitzwilliamdarcy5263 6 месяцев назад +3

    Places worth visiting -
    Atlantic Side:
    - Palm Beach
    - Amelia Island
    - Key Biscayne
    - Key West
    - St. Augustine
    Gulf Side:
    - Naples
    - Anna Maria Island
    - Rosemary Beach
    - Seaside

    • @elliebellie7816
      @elliebellie7816 6 месяцев назад

      Seaside is a planned community, much of it is not on the beach.

  • @losteyesight
    @losteyesight 11 месяцев назад +25

    You forgot our MANY beautiful springs!

    • @1catmac
      @1catmac 11 месяцев назад

      ??

    • @canolorenzo
      @canolorenzo 10 месяцев назад +8

      Don’t tell them. Let’s keep them secret.

  • @generalnguyenngocloan1700
    @generalnguyenngocloan1700 27 дней назад

    I live only about 15 minutes from Sanibel Island and Ft. Myers Beach, but Naples, FL is still my local “go to” for a quick getaway. It has a beautiful beach and plenty of free nearby parking for everything. Downtown Naples 5th Ave. and nearby Old Naples are decorated and lit up very nicely during Christmas season, and remain lit up all year round to a certain extent for those nightly walks.

  • @coreytaylor1673
    @coreytaylor1673 22 дня назад +1

    Twenty years living in Ormond Beach, the history still fascinates me. Sadly Donnie's and Burntwood are no longer with us.

  • @debrakelly4505
    @debrakelly4505 Месяц назад

    This is a great list, I’ve been to most of these places, including the keys. But after 30 years as a Floridian, I still have not been to the panhandle beaches. That’s my next vacation! Thanks for a great video. 😊

  • @stevegiblin270
    @stevegiblin270 10 месяцев назад

    Delray and Flagler beaches are awesome 😎 cocoa beach is very affordable too!😊

  • @jeffreykregel3821
    @jeffreykregel3821 9 месяцев назад

    12:45
    Dolphin Research Center is actually located near Marathon (MM 59). However both Key Largo and Islamorada have their own dolphin facilities. Like Dolphins Plus on Key Largo (MM 102) and Theater of the Sea on Islamorada (MM 84)
    I love vacationing in the Middle Keys near Marathon, with out to go beach at Bahia Honda State Park.

  • @MichaelFontana081153
    @MichaelFontana081153 10 месяцев назад +3

    Amazing you did not mention the Florida Keys. There are dozens of small islands, some with almost deserted beaches, and the weather is always warmer than anywhere else in the North American Continent. it can be hard to find accomodations, and it does take quite a trip to get there, even for Floridians. Amongst the many key islands, there are still hidden gems that I will not share, and some which do not even have vehicle access!

    • @crashdsnowman1
      @crashdsnowman1 8 месяцев назад +1

      Glad he didn't, it is crowded beyond belief now and the non locals try to go 80 in a 50 all the way to KW down US1. There are head on collisions almost every week from people trying to pass. Most tourist stop coming around Easter then start again around Thanksgiving.

  • @homegrownson
    @homegrownson 23 дня назад

    I was born in St Petersburg and many of interior or northern Florida residents would Travel to Warm retreat of St Pete and now I have lived in Gainesville area find many of my friends travel here for the Springs and to get away from Rush Hour Mentality of Bigger Cities. Right now many of our favorite places are rebuilding still in Bay Area

  • @debrakelly4505
    @debrakelly4505 Месяц назад

    This is a great list, I’ve been to most of these places, including the keys. But after 30 years as a Floridian, I still have not been to the panhandle beaches. That’s my next vacation! Thanks for a great video. 😊 You should do one about our natural springs next!

  • @rajukotipoyina2375
    @rajukotipoyina2375 3 месяца назад

    Well narrated and covered most of the Beaches and Beach towns.Welk done.I have explored all those places.

  • @RavenATB
    @RavenATB 8 месяцев назад +1

    Really old video of Crab Island (Destin). The floating playgrounds haven’t been there for at least six years. The larger vending boats that used to be anchored there all summer are gone, too.

  • @BlackBoneus
    @BlackBoneus 2 месяца назад

    Great informational video, Florida is the place we grew up in. Videos like these are refreshing to see.

  • @justoneman3916
    @justoneman3916 11 месяцев назад +1

    Yep, that’s pretty much my list if you add Key West (one of my favorite spots). As a Miami Vice and Bird Cage fan I also like South Beach near Miami. Wherever you go make sure you try fish dip, hogfish, triple tail, grouper sandwiches and cuban sandwiches. Fond memories at Pass-a-Grille Hurricane restaurant rooftop bar. I also love Disney, but only when going with the grand kids.

  • @darylharvey2865
    @darylharvey2865 4 месяца назад

    We love visiting St Aug!!! St George St does get a little crowded, but thankfully there are lots of other attractions there. Parking isn't as bad as noted in the video if you're willing to use the public parking deck and do a little walking.

  • @Youtubeparolee
    @Youtubeparolee 7 месяцев назад

    I live in Alabama but I’ve been to most of these in my life.
    I’ve lived in Florida when I was in the navy.
    I love it.

  • @Easydoesit101
    @Easydoesit101 7 месяцев назад +3

    I was born in Dania Beach South Broward General, lived in Miami for 67 years, We are Retired and Living In Beautiful Historic High Springs Florida. Living in Florida we don’t have 4 Distinct Seasons, we basically have a subtropical climate, we can go Warm, Humid, “Buggy Season” and it can get Cold up in High Spring, to Deep Freeze where water pipes can burst, love your Channel. 🇺🇸👏

    • @TinaLy-gf3bh
      @TinaLy-gf3bh 6 месяцев назад +2

      You are very lucky. ❤

  • @DarthBrick13
    @DarthBrick13 6 месяцев назад

    Wife and I LOVE to hit Turtle beach off Long boat key in Sarasota!!!!! We go to Sun Garden Cafe for some brunch and hit the beach after some great food, A MUST do for anyone looking for a quiet getaway!!!

  • @Impossibletopossible05
    @Impossibletopossible05 6 месяцев назад +3

    You should seriously make a video of the beautiful state parks that have the clearest water I have ever seen in any place other than pools . These state parks like Rainbow springs and Ginnie springs have the clearest water and they're family friendly to say the least .

  • @user-mad7max11dystopia
    @user-mad7max11dystopia Месяц назад

    We stayed on Anna Maria island in the 90s, and then discovered Destin and Sandestin, Sanibel Island in 1999, then found Siesta Key and spent one vacation in Santa Rosa. We prefer the gulf to the Atlantic, but I’d like to go to the beaches near Palm Beach if I get a chance.

  • @zilphapeatce
    @zilphapeatce 6 месяцев назад

    I have been to Coco Beach, St Augustine, Key Largo, Islandmarada, Delray Beach (it used to be called “dull ray beach” up until 2010”, and Vero Beach.

  • @Moneypower572
    @Moneypower572 11 месяцев назад +3

    Definitely got to add Hallandale Beach Florida, Beautiful beaches and Hotels, lounges, restaurants and Gulf Stream Park, Atlantic Village.

    • @willbygosh4887
      @willbygosh4887 11 месяцев назад

      Too expensive!

    • @SuperAmin1950
      @SuperAmin1950 9 месяцев назад +1

      I enjoy Hallandale Beach, I grew up there; my mom even spent 2 terms as mayor¡ 😅

    • @Moneypower572
      @Moneypower572 9 месяцев назад

      @@SuperAmin1950 it’s the fast growing city in south Florida now definitely grow a lot.

    • @tommack8650
      @tommack8650 9 месяцев назад +1

      I grew up on beach at Keating Park c1970. Dad worked at Gulfstream. Dorians and Oceans Eleven on US1 👍