Freshwater springs, one of Florida's 7 natural wonders

7 Natural Wonders of Florida’s Atlantic Coast

The Sunshine State is not just renowned for its breathtaking beaches and the thrilling rides of Disney World, it is also home to some of the most mesmerizing natural phenomena that attract nature lovers from all corners of the world. If you are looking for the best things to do in Florida, consider witnessing the different natural wonders it offers.

7 Natural Wonders of Florida’s East Coast

1. Bioluminescence in Cocoa Beach

Between the months of June and October, bioluminescence in Cocoa Beach is one of the most beautiful natural wonders that you can experience. On a dark night, away from the city’s hustle and bustle, the waters of the Mosquito Lagoon, Indian River Lagoon, and Banana River near Cocoa Beach come alive with a blue-green glow, courtesy of tiny organisms known as dinoflagellates. Each movement in the water sparks a bioluminescent display that rivals the stars overhead. For those looking for things to do in Florida that are out of the ordinary, a nighttime kayak trip on these glowing waters is unforgettable.

2. Stargazing in the Florida Keys

As for places to visit in Florida for celestial wonders, Key West offers one of the clearest night skies ideal for stargazing. Due to the minimal light pollution, the skies above this part of Florida unveil the cosmos in all its glory, making it a prime spot for astronomy enthusiasts. Envision a dream vacation where you can lie in soft sand and swim in turquoise waters during the day, and watch the Milky Way stretch vividly above you at night. Stargazing in places like Big Pine Key or Bahia Honda State Park is truly one of the best things to do in Florida for anyone who appreciates the grandeur of our universe and natural wonders of the night sky.

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3. Beach diversity

Beyond these nocturnal marvels, Florida’s natural attractions extend into the daylight hours with some of the best beaches in Florida, and one of the most diverse too! These beaches are not only perfect for sunbathing and water sports. For an unforgettable vacation experience, the best vacation spots in Florida often include beach destinations like Fort Pierce Inlet in Hutchinson Island for shelling, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in Palm Beach County for its sugary sand, and the untamed beauty of the Canaveral National Seashore filled with seashells, small sand dollars, and other marine treasures that get washed up by the waves.

4. Abundant wildlife in the Everglades

For the ecotourist, the Everglades offers a one-of-a-kind journey, from the ethereal Florida coast into an enchanting paradise inland. Home to over 2,000 species of plants and animals, it is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America, boasting a unique blend of freshwater and saltwater environments. This vast wetland is filled with wildlife, giving visitors the chance to admire all kinds of rare birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals in their natural habitat via airboat tours or walking trails, which is ideal for birdwatching and wildlife photography. The Florida Everglades is one of the best places to visit in Florida for those who like to pair adventure with wildlife viewing.

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5. Freshwater springs

Florida is home to numerous natural freshwater springs scattered across the state, including one of the largest, deepest, and most famous in the world located in Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. These natural springs offer crystal clear waters year-round and some maintain the same temperature. Whether it’s snorkeling in the refreshing waters of the Blue Hole Springs in Ichetucknee Springs State Park or viewing manatees at Blue Spring State Park, these unique are essential Florida experiences. Springs can be found less than an hour away from the Atlantic coast, and are some of the best vacation spots in Florida for families and solo travelers alike.

6. Marine life, coral reefs and beach ecosystems

Florida’s sandy shores, salt marshes, and multiple estuaries offer enchanting landscapes that cradle a myriad of plant and animal species. From the nesting grounds of sea turtles to the feeding heavens for migratory shorebirds, these ecosystems are a treasure trove of biodiversity. Salt marshes, with their lush, salt-loving plants, serve as abundant sustenance for fish and birds, while estuaries, where fresh and saltwater mix, create a vibrant ecosystem. Florida’s coral reef, which stretches almost 350 miles, from the Dry Tortugas National Park in the Keys, to the St. Lucie Inlet in the Treasure Coast, is also a gateway to discovering Florida’s different saltwater fish varieties and overall plentiful marine life.

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7. Wildlife sanctuaries

For nature lovers, wildlife sanctuaries, refuges, and preserves are a Florida attraction that offers a unique insight into the diverse ecosystems, protected species, and unmatched landscapes that the Atlantic coast has to offer. The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge near Titusville and Orlando covers 140,000 acres and, since it lies in an estuary, it provides a wide variety of habitats for over 1,500 species of plants and animals to flourish. Whether you are interested in birdwatching, photography, kayaking, or simply exploring Florida’s natural beauty, these sanctuaries will provide unforgettable encounters with the state’s unparalleled flora and fauna.

Florida’s diverse landscape and commitment to preserving its natural wonders make it a treasure trove for visitors seeking more than just a typical beach holiday. From the natural bioluminescence in Cocoa Beach to wildlife sanctuaries, refuges, and preserves, the state is brimming with unique natural attractions. So, when you’re considering the best places to visit in Florida, think beyond the Orlando theme parks and include these natural wonders on your itinerary for a truly magical vacation experience.

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