10 Most Overlooked Florida Towns For 2025
When researching the best travel destinations in Florida, the same towns and cities tend to come up time and time again. Choosing these spots can certainly feel like a safe bet, but what about the underrated towns that go overlooked? While the Florida Keys and Orlando theme parks are popular for good reason, there is so much beauty beyond the state’s tropical islands and Magic Kingdom.
Whether you are someone who likes to avoid tourist herds or someone who loves to venture off the beaten path, these 10 overlooked Florida towns are extremely underrated and well worth exploring. Offering uncrowded beaches, fairytale downtowns, and some of the best state parks in Florida, these towns may be less popular, but they are no less extraordinary.
Steinhatchee
Tucked away in Florida’s Big Bend region, Steinhatchee shines as “The Best-Kept Secret in Florida.” Boasting access to the Gulf of Mexico (America) and Steinhatchee River, the historic fishing village promises gorgeous views and laid-back pleasures. Seafood lovers can dine at joints like Kathi's Krab Shack or cast a line with guides like Crystal Sea Charters. For fun beyond the fishing line, hikes to Steinhatchee Falls call for lounging and picnicking on the water, taking in the views of the wide cascade. From there, paddlers can also set off on the 6-mile Steinhatchee River Paddling Trail, one of Florida’s prettiest kayak routes.
Sebastian
Bordered by the Sebastian River and Indian River Lagoon, Sebastian is another underrated town anchored by its scenic waterways. Much like Steinhatchee, fishing charters and waterfront restaurants are in high supply here, lining the Sebastian Riverfront. After a day on the water with guides like Big Easy Fishing Charter, visitors can grab a bite at the Sandbar Beach Club or mellow out with drinks at Captain Hirams Sandbar. Alternatively, Sebastian Inlet State Park is a must for fun in the sand. Popular with surfers, paddlers, and snorkelers, this “beach lover's paradise” has something for everyone.
Cortez
Florida beachgoers will also love Cortez, a Gulf Coast village with a small-town feel and uncrowded shores. One of the last surviving fishing villages on Florida’s Southwest Coast, Cortez is often overlooked in favor of flashier resort towns. As a result, gateway shores like Cortez Beach on Anna Maria Island can be enjoyed without having to fight for a spot in the sand. With 140 feet of unspoiled sand and no distracting amenities, Cortez Beach offers an Old Florida feel, perfect for a beach day without the frills. This laid-back atmosphere and lack of crowds also extend to local restaurants like the Swordfish Grill and the Cortez Cafe, where a cozy vibe is guaranteed.
Fernandina Beach
An Atlantic Coast town on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach blends historic charm with a classic beach town atmosphere. Fernandina is frequently overshadowed by nearby Jacksonville, which saw more than 8 million visitors in 2024. As a result, island locales like Main Beach Park and Peters Point Beachfront Park have the coast’s famous white sands without the big city crowds. Deeper inland, downtown Fernandina Beach also boasts “50 blocks of island charm,” including Victorian buildings and landmarks like the Palace Saloon. Located on Historic Center Street, the late-1800s bar is known for being the oldest saloon in Florida.
Micanopy
Micanopy, Florida’s oldest inland town, is a paradise for travelers looking to travel back in time to Old Florida. Much like Fernandina Beach, Micanopy is eclipsed by a neighboring city. With Gainesville 10 miles north keeping tourist throngs at bay, Micanopy enjoys a quieter vibe and a slower pace. Whether browsing the Antique City Mall, touring the Micanopy Historical Society Museum, or booking a stay at the historic Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast, your time here will feel unrushed, evoking a different era. Even Micanopy’s natural surroundings are reminiscent of Old Florida, with Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offering the unique chance to see wild horses and bison roaming free.
Inverness
Living up to its motto “Small Town Done Right,” Inverness is another quaint lake town offering Old Florida charms. Skirting Lake Tsala Apopka in West Central Florida, lake fun and leisure can be enjoyed at waterfront parks like Wallace Brooks. Afterward, just minutes away, Courthouse Square is the perfect follow-up. Best explored on foot, the diamond-shaped district is bordered by cute local restaurants and shops like the SideBar Tavern and Olde Inverness Antiques. Also lining the square, visitors will find historic sites like the Old Courthouse Heritage Museum. In addition to being the square’s anchor and namesake, the courthouse once served as a filming location for the 1962 Elvis film "Follow That Dream.”
Flagler Beach
Returning to the Atlantic Coast, Flagler Beach is a barrier island town beckoning visitors with uncrowded shores and coastal attractions. Centered between St. Augustine to the north and Daytona Beach to the south, Flagler Beach remains the quietest of the three, making it the perfect choice for introverted beachgoers. The town’s namesake shore is scenic and serene, while Gamble Rogers State Park is known for its brown coquina sands and 0.75-mile Joe Kenner Nature Trail. Back in town, visitors can also enjoy sips at the Flagler Beachfront Winery and bites at the Oceanside Beach Bar & Grill, both known for their welcoming staff, excellent service, and great vibes.
St. George Island
A beachy getaway can also be savored in St. George Island, a Forgotten Coast town you will never forget. Known for its untouched and unspoiled shores, the barrier island and its namesake town promise beach bliss without the bells and whistles. In place of high-rise hotels and boardwalk tourist traps, the white-sand shore at Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park “offers visitors a little strip of paradise.” For a change of scenery, the St. George Island Lighthouse Beach is another great option. Afterward, Lighthouse Park is right next door, inviting guests to climb the historic St. George Island Lighthouse for panoramic views.
Matlacha
For an island escape without the worry of sand in your shoes, Matlacha shines for its unique art scene and relaxed atmosphere. One of the state’s quirkiest destinations, this Old Florida fishing village is a haven for free spirits, artists, and art lovers alike. Due to its lack of beaches, many pass over a trip to the barrier island community. However, Matlacha’s charming pastel buildings, spirited locals, and vibrant attractions are well worth exploring. Whether strolling the waterfront at Matlacha Community Park or grabbing a bite at the upbeat Blue Dog Bar & Grill, beautiful scenes and great vibes are never far. To top it off, the beauty stretches indoors with art galleries like the beloved Matlacha Menagerie.
Sebring
Encompassing Lake Jackson, Sebring is another gorgeous waterfront town with tons to see and do. Much like other inland communities, it remains a hidden gem, overshadowed by cities on the coast. Accordingly, Sebring’s small-town atmosphere and family-friendly feel are unmatched, helping your time here feel like a home away from home. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and boating at the Lake Jackson & City Pier Beach, while Highlands Hammock State Park beckons with its enchanting cypress hiking trails. Historic Downtown Sebring is also a must, showcasing the iconic Sebring Circle Park and its surrounding businesses like Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works.
Discover Florida Off The Beaten Path In 2025
When planning a trip of any kind, choosing the most popular destinations can feel like a safe bet. However, these underrated and overlooked Florida towns offer a wealth of sights and experiences so great that visiting them would hardly be a gamble. Whether lounging on unobstructed and unspoiled beaches in St. George Island or embracing leisure and lake life in Inverness, these Florida towns will reveal a serene side of Florida you never knew existed.
