10 Most Neighborly Towns In Florida
Florida is among the most visited places on the planet for sunshine, sandy beaches, and a lively after-dark scene. This article heads in the opposite direction, spotlighting underrated vacation towns that feel more neighborly and unhurried, with walkable downtowns and calmer waterfronts. From Fernandina Beach’s historic district on Amelia Island to Vero Beach’s clean shoreline along the Treasure Coast, these destinations deliver a slower rhythm without losing the classic Florida sparkle.
Whether you want oceanside history in St. Augustine, lakefront charm and festivals in Mount Dora, or an artsy afternoon in Winter Park, the 10 communities ahead fit both visitors and residents looking for a softer, more welcoming side of the Sunshine State.
Vero Beach
Resting along Florida’s Treasure Coast, an expanse of oceanside landscapes north of Miami, Vero Beach is a friendly beach town and an ideal place to explore on foot.
Vero Beach is particularly known for its variety of clean beaches, where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and even seasonal turtle watching. Moreover, the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biodiverse estuaries in the U.S., also offers a variety of ways for you to go kayaking, fishing, and boating, making the area and hotspot for those who love getting outdoors.
Vero Beach is rich in culture, proudly hosting the Vero Beach Museum of Art, where visitors can enjoy a variety of rotating exhibitions showcasing both contemporary and classical artworks. The museum also highlights the beauty of the Indian River Lagoon with a special collection dedicated to its natural environment. Additionally, the town’s fascinating history is lovingly preserved and can be explored at the Heritage Center and its charming historic district. These sites offer a wonderful glimpse into the area's vibrant past and artistic spirit.
Fort Pierce
Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Fort Pierce shares similarities with Vero Beach, boasting charming museums, a beautiful waterfront, and a lively arts scene. One of the city's highlights is the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum, paying tribute to the brave history of the U.S. Navy SEALs.
The historic downtown area is a cozy gathering spot filled with charming local shops, tasty seafood restaurants, and art galleries. Don’t miss a visit to Fort Pierce's waterfront along the Indian River Lagoon—a vibrant hub where locals and visitors alike enjoy fishing, boating, and delicious waterfront dining. The 2nd Street Bistro is a favorite among residents, offering delightful Sunday brunches and a lively happy hour.
Just nearby, Fort Pierce Inlet State Park invites you to relax on its beautiful beaches, watch local wildlife, or explore walking trails—perfect for a quick nature getaway.
With its stunning beaches, tasty food, and plenty of activities, this town is a more relaxed, budget-friendly, and community-focused alternative to Miami.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora, a town with nearly 18,000 residents in Central Florida just north of Orlando, is celebrated for its warm atmosphere and strong community spirit. Its historic downtown serves as a popular gathering spot for locals, featuring numerous mom-and-pop shops, restaurants, and festivals that foster community ties. Events such as the Mount Dora Arts Festival and the annual Christmas Walk provide both residents and visitors with opportunities to connect, while groups like the Mount Dora Friends of the Environment and the Rotary Club engage residents in community improvement efforts. Lake Dora offers a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities, including boat tours and lakeside walks. Nearby state parks like Wekiwa Springs State Park and Seminole State Forest expand the range of outdoor pursuits available in this charming town.
St. Augustine
As the oldest continuously inhabited European-founded settlement in the continental U.S., St. Augustine is a must-see for history enthusiasts in Florida. Established in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, the city features several notable historic sites, including the well-preserved 17th-century Castillo de San Marcos and the Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, which also offers great local lodging. Its lively historic district is vital to visit, with charming stone streets lined with colonial architecture, shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Beyond its history, St. Augustine boasts beautiful beaches, such as Anastasia State Park, offering scenic views, birdwatching, kayaking, and fishing spots. Whether delving into its rich history, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the local arts scene, St. Augustine remains a prominent historical destination with a close-knit community dedicated to preserving its heritage.
Deland
Located between Daytona Beach and Orlando, DeLand is a lively town home to the Stetson University campus, which adds to its youthful vibe and vibrant cultural scene, including art exhibits and performances at the DeLand Theatre. The town boasts a rich history worth exploring, with landmarks like the DeLand House Museum offering insights into its storied past. The Gillespie Museum, operated by the university, is another engaging and educational site, featuring an extensive collection of minerals and geological exhibits. MainStreet is a popular destination in DeLand, serving as the community's heart with frequent public events and some of the oldest local businesses. This area received the “Great American Main Street Award” in 1997. For nature enthusiasts, Blue Spring State Park nearby is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and observing wildlife, especially manatees in winter.
Apalachicola
Situated along Florida's Gulf Coast, Apalachicola is a lively, historic fishing town that has preserved its old-world charm. It is renowned for its fresh seafood, especially oysters harvested from nearby waters and enjoyed at local spots like Up The Creek Raw Bar. The town's small historic district, featuring buildings from the 19th century, now hosts many amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. The Gibson Inn is a charming lodging option just steps from the scenic waterfront. Additionally, Apalachicola serves as a gateway to natural attractions like the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River Basin and the St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, which offer kayaking, birdwatching, and hiking opportunities. Whether you’re savoring local ingredients, exploring its history, or experiencing the surrounding nature, Apalachicola stands out as a friendly and memorable destination in Florida’s Panhandle.
Venice
Also located on Florida’s sun-soaked Gulf Coast, Venice is known for its relaxed atmosphere that makes for a perfect beach escape. Its historic downtown core area contains an interesting mix of Mediterranean Revival architecture and attractions like the Venice Museum. Right around the corner from the museum sits the Monty Andrews Arboretum, a wonderful city park that you can freely explore.
As you can imagine, Venice is also renowned for its beaches, with Venice Beach offering access to stunning Gulf views and the chance to search for prehistoric shark teeth along the shore, earning the town its nickname, "Shark Tooth Capital of the World." Beyond the beach, the Venetian Waterway Park provides a peaceful place for walking, cycling, and enjoying views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Venice also has a strong cultural presence in western Florida, with the Venice Theatre being one of the largest community theaters in the entire country, offering a range of live performances throughout the year.
Fernandina Beach
Sitting on the stunning Amelia Island at the very northeastern tip of Florida, Fernandina Beach truly feels like a special place. It boasts fantastic attractions such as the Fernandina Beach Marina, which serves as the heart of this welcoming community. Whether you're a visitor or a local, you’ll love watching boats drift in and out, savoring delicious fresh seafood at charming restaurants, or exploring the lively marina nearby. Don't miss stopping by the highly praised Salty Pelican Bar & Grill, just across the street from the harbor, where you can enjoy mouthwatering food and lively live music that perfectly captures the local spirit.
The area is also known for its selection of beaches, including Main Beach, a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming in the summer months, and Fort Clinch State Park, where you can explore up close a former military fort, hike its network of trails, or fish from the pier.
Key West
At the southernmost tip of the United States sits Key West, an iconic town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty into one of the best vacation destinations in the country. With a well-established laid-back atmosphere and a visually striking downtown, the neighborly community here only adds to its appeal.
Popular landmarks such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum offer a look into the life of the famed author who once called Key West home, while the Key West Lighthouse is the place to go for 360-degree views of the surrounding area. The town is also renowned for its sunset celebrations at Mallory Square, where visitors can watch street performers and enjoy the breathtaking sights of the Gulf of Mexico.
many come simply to enjoy the island's beautiful beaches, where opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and fishing abound. The waters surrounding Key West are notably part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, offering a protected environment for marine life.
Winter Park
Just north of Orlando, Winter Park is a wonderfully community-minded town that cares deeply about preserving nature and fostering a lively arts scene. You can visit charming spots like Kraft Azalea Garden, where locals and visitors can enjoy outdoor events, relax by the peaceful Lake Maitland, or explore its lovely gardens and open-air monuments. Winter Park is also home to special places like the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, which showcases an impressive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, and the Winter Park Playhouse, a cozy regional theater with a variety of performances. If you're eager to explore more of the artistic heartbeat of this Orlando suburb, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum offers a delightful mix of art exhibitions and community displays that are sure to inspire.
Embrace these Friendly Communities in Florida on Your Next Vacation
This selection of Florida’s most neighborly small towns showcases the state’s diversity beyond its major cities and theme parks. Whether driving along the coast, strolling around a historic district, or exploring a park, each community above offers a distinct experience that highlights Florida’s cultural and geographic variety. From waterfront escapes to artistic enclaves, these destinations provide a quieter, more personal way to explore the state.
