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Folks have been fascinated with Stiltsville since the first shack went up in Biscayne Bay a mile from land in the 1930s. Biscayne National Park and a non-profit partner offer regular boat tours that tell the Stiltsville story and take you close to the houses.

Read More about Miami’s Stiltsville: See it by boat on tours in Biscayne National Park

It’s a long way from just about anywhere — and that’s part of its beauty. But it’s also a great place to bicycle, kayak, hike, watch sunsets and spot birds. An 1859 hotel, now a charming B&B, plus fresh seafood restaurants add to its appeal.

Read More about Six things to do in Cedar Key, a charming, historic, off-the-beaten path spot

Punta Gorda is blessed with a beautiful riverfront location, but it doesn’t have a beach. And there lies the reason it has an off-the-beaten-track quality. It’s a great place for kayaking, biking, hiking, birding and discovering funky crab shacks and other authentic Florida experiences.

Read More about Punta Gorda: 17 things to do in an Old Florida riverfront town

Tarpon Springs is best known for its Greek sponge docks. But a boat trip to Anclote Key, one of Florida’s most remote state parks, is even better. Anclote Key is a perfect island beach, perhaps more tantalizing because it’s not easy to visit.

Read More about Tarpon Springs: Visit dazzling island of Anclote Key on boat from Sponge Docks

One of the prettiest places is Key West is the Audubon House, also known as the Geiger House, and its gardens. Like the best spots in Key West, the Audubon House is full of fascinating stories with larger than life characters. It also features a great collection of Audubon’s work in Florida.

Read More about Key West Audubon House: Fascinating characters, enchanting spot

A Virginia Key kayak outing offers an amazing combo – views of the Miami skyline rising out of Biscayne Bay in one direction, mangrove lagoons with shore birds in the other. An extra treat: It’s the best way to see the old Miami Marine Stadium.

Read More about Kayaking Virginia Key: Miami skyline views plus surprising natural splendor

Alligators have always fascinated us; never more than in the early days of Florida tourism, when thousands of baby gators and alligator items were sold. Here’s an excerpt from a new book by Doug Alderson, “America’s Alligator: A Popular History of Our Most Celebrated Reptile.” which is being published April 1 by Lyons Press

Read More about Baby Alligators for Sale! When gators were souvenirs