Getaways to the authentic Florida
Things to do in Northeast Florida, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach: hiking, biking, trails, canoeing, kayaking, paddle, places to camp, lodging, unique restaurants, historic places, places to stay, road trips and Funky Florida.
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings came to Cross Creek and wrote the beloved story of a young boy and his pet fawn, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1939. Today, visiting the author’s beautifully preserved home is an excellent way to discover the authentic Florida, far from the strip malls and theme parks.
Here’s a roundup of scenic rides near Daytona around Biketoberfest, October 16-19.
If you think all there is to the Suwannee River is an old song with problematic lyrics, you’re missing out on one of Florida’s greatest kayaking, canoeing and camping rivers.
The Ormond Scenic Loop is a 30-mile road trip through live-oak canopies, waterfront postcard scenes, abundant wildlife, two state parks. It’s a great summer activity when paired with some time on the cinnamon-colored beaches you will pass.
I loved discovering this hidden gem near St. Augustine. It has two sides along scenic A1A: A historic oak-shaded formal garden on the west side and a beach with fantastically shaped coquina rocks to the east.
When driving I-95, you can travel five minutes off the highway and find romantic ruins, have a picnic and a walk through the woods in this Flagler County state park. In minutes, you feel like you’re in another world.
Faver Dykes State Park offers excellent kayaking, productive fishing and woodsy camping just 15 miles from historic St. Augustine.
However you explore Cumberland Island, its history and awesome scenery set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
There’s not much going on in Lake George State Forest, making it an ideal getaway for a few days of solitude along the St. John’s River.
Diverse eco-systems are the hallmark of North Florida state parks with camping, from beaches to cool springs and deep woods hideaways. Part 4 in our series.