by Florida has some of the best beaches in the United States, but the Sunshine State has a lot more to offer than just sand and surf. The region also holds a whole host of ecological wonders that many tourists miss. With world-famous dolphin tours, alligator and crocodile viewings, and natural boardwalks, Florida practically overflows with hidden gems. A series of gorgeous natural swimming holes where travelers can float in crystal clear water numbers among these.
By examining hundreds of visitor reviews from sites like Reddit, Tripadvisor, and Google and drawing on first-hand experience, we’ve gained a pretty good idea of which Florida swimming holes actually merit your time. Although every destination offers something different, we did our best to focus on truly unique places. Whether you want to swim with the manatees or enjoy natural spring water slides, this list has something for you. Just remember to call or check park websites for closures before heading to one of these swimming holes so you don’t end up disappointed.
Swim with manatees at Three Sisters Springs Center
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If you love Floridian fauna, look no further than Three Sisters Springs Center. Located within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, this unique swimming hole houses plenty of wildlife — including manatees. Keep in mind, however, that you can’t simply drive to Three Sisters Springs and jump right into the water. Visitors can only access the swimming area by boat or paddle vessel via public boat ramps or kayak launches on Kings Bay.
While these regulations may seem intense, they exist to ensure maximum safety. Travelers willing to follow the rules get to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime natural experience. As a past visitor explained on Google, “This place is wonderful. I was swimming with a large number of manaties in their natural environment. One of them got interested in me and started following me for around 10 minutes … It was one of the best experiences in my life.”
Of course, not everyone will feel comfortable venturing that far out into the water. Folks reticent about getting their feet wet might consider visiting the locale’s spring-side boardwalk. This walking trail may not provide the same immersive manatee experience, but it does allow travelers to view these aquatic animals from afar. Describing their boardwalk experience, one Google reviewer wrote, “The board walk is U-shaped so make sure to explore both paths. The springs are SUPER clear so if the manatees are there you will definitely see them.”
Wekiwa Springs State Park offers outside fun for all energy levels
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Some travelers can’t wait to plunge into a pool of crystal-clear water. Others simply want a scenic place to lounge about. Both personalities may enjoy Wekiwa Springs State Park, which offers a unique turquoise swimming area surrounded by spectacular recreational facilities. Located just north of Orlando, Florida, this park is probably most famous for its shallow natural spring pool. However, it also provides a spring-side volleyball court, horseshoe pit, and picnic tables for anyone who wants to make a day of their Wekiwa Springs adventure. Play a round of volleyball, cool off in the natural pool, and then enjoy a picnic with a view.
Previous visitors applaud the park for its appeal to folks of all energy levels. As one individual shared on Google, “Wekiwa Springs State Park is an absolute gem! The crystal-clear springs are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water … The park is clean, family-friendly, and has great picnic areas. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a quiet day surrounded by nature, this park is a must-visit.” A second visitor highlighted the park as a fantastic place for high-energy people (especially kids) on Tripadvisor: “Lots to see and do. My grandchildren had a great time running around exploring the area. They love being outdoors and had a great time.”
Take a dip into history at Rainbow Springs State Park
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To enjoy a beautiful swimming hole with a unique historical twist, head to Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, Florida. This spectacular recreational area invites visitors to dive into deep blue crystalline water and relive an experience that has held importance for humanity for millennia. The first people likely visited Rainbow Springs about 10,000 years ago. It is thought that Native Americans traversed these waters and maybe even used them for fishing. In the 20th century, the land near the springs became a phosphate mine, attracting workers from all over the United States. It wasn’t until the 1930s that Rainbow Springs became a modern tourist attraction, complete with boat rides and artificial waterfalls.
These days, Rainbow Springs no longer functions as a kitschy Old Florida destination. Instead, it has transformed into a state park where visitors can kayak, swim, and enjoy nature in a respectful way. That said, history buffs can still view the man-made waterfalls created in the park’s touristic heyday by hiking an old-fashioned walking path. A separate nature trail allows visitors to look out over the old phosphate mines, as well. Previous guests love both the swimming and hiking trails. As contributor a wrote on Tripadvisor, “Beautiful, clear, cool headwaters of the Rainbow Springs! So refreshing to swim in! The park has a concession stand or you can bring in your own picnic … The paths around the park are fun to walk through.”
Warm Mineral Springs Park: A relaxing and down-to-earth swimming alternative
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Florida may burst with clear springs, but “clear” doesn’t mean “warm.” In fact, many of the Sunshine State’s most spectacular springs have chilly temperatures. The water in the Wekiwa Springs State Park’s swimming area remains a consistent 72 degrees, with Rainbow Springs State Park hitting a similar average. While these may sound like pleasant temperatures, they’re only two degrees higher than what the National Center for Cold Water Safety considers cold water meriting thermal protection.
Enter Warm Mineral Springs Park. Although this North Port swimming hole does not provide the same turquoise color as its competitors, it offers a balmy, 85-degree average water temperature that makes swimming a pleasure. Plus, as one of the world’s largest warm springs, the park provides enough space for visitors to float in relative peace. Grab a pool noodle, wade into the water, and enjoy the warmth (just make sure to prepare yourself for the strong sulfur smell the springs emit). Rumor has it that the springs’ mineral content might contain some physical healing elements. While it’s hard to judge to what extent that’s true, at the very least, the spring water will help you absorb the best possible vacation vibes.
Previous visitors note that Warm Mineral Springs Park is a great spot to take it easy — as long as you enter with the right mindset. “This place isn’t for everyone—but if you’re open-minded, enjoy nature, and want a relaxing, healing soak (without expecting a 5-star resort), it’s totally worth trying,” a local guide wrote on Google. “You’ll leave smelling like minerals but feeling refreshed, recharged, and probably a little sleepy in the best way.”
Trade your beach day for a weekend getaway at Fanning Springs State Park
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Do you think spending a day at a Florida swimming hole sounds relaxing? Well, just imagine what spending a whole weekend there would be like! Travelers looking to chill to the fullest should consider visiting Fanning Springs State Park. Unlike many state parks which limit their overnight options to trailers and tent camping, this destination offers comfortable, two-bedroom cabins to folks who want to stay a while. Visitors snap these spots up quickly, however, so try to reserve one well in advance.
Travelers who manage to secure an overnight spot at Fanning Springs can expect to spend their vacation in absolute peace. Wake up and enjoy your coffee on the bank of the Suwannee River and then head to the swimming area for a refreshing dip. Float on an inner tube for a while, then return to your cabin to read a book on the porch. Feeling particularly adventurous? Embark on the 7-mile canoe ride to Manatee Springs State Park. Alternatively, you can go fishing, hiking, biking, or even snorkeling.
The wide variety of activities available at the park thrilled previous visitors. Writing on Tripadvisor, one person shared, “Relaxing 3 day visit. The cabin was wonderful and the large, screened porch with rocking chairs and a swing was delightful. I loved hiking the nature trail each morning and visiting the spring … This is also a good spot for bike rides.”
Worry less about unwanted animal encounters at De León Springs State Park
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While some visitors will consider taking a dip at one of Florida’s best state parks an incredible experience, not everyone will enjoy a natural swimming hole. Fish, manatees, and sometimes even alligators may put in appearances out in the wild. Although many travelers have no issue sharing the water with some of Florida’s most fascinating fauna, others prefer a slightly more curated environment.
Luckily, De León Springs State Park offers just that. Because the park’s swimming area has been physically separated from the rest of the springs, visitors are significantly less likely to encounter any wildlife during their dip. In fact, the state park takes the issue of alligators so seriously that it prohibits people from swimming outside the pool bounds for fear of an unwanted encounter. In that sense, De León Springs State Park makes an ideal destination for travelers who want to enjoy natural spring water without too much nature.
Travelers have historically enjoyed the state park’s comfortable blend of modern convenience and the great outdoors. A previous visitor commented on Google: “The spring is gorgeous and pretty big … Some amazing nature trails. Great gift shop with a lot of options for souvenirs.” The same reviewer also enjoyed the park’s eatery, writing, “I love what they’ve done with the sugar mill turning it into a restaurant. Amazing breakfast and very affordable.”
