These Towns In Florida Come Alive In Winter

For a state nicknamed "The Sunshine State" for its warm temperature, it would seem unusual to associate Florida with the cold season. However, Florida experiences the winter season even though it doesn't get as cold as other areas in the country. With the temperatures plunging to a frigid low in the northern states, snowbird favorites like Marco Island and St. Augustine emerge as havens for travelers escaping the cold.

Besides the warmer temperatures, the diverse natural landscapes, from the beaches and sand hills to flat woods and floodplain forests, transform into a picturesque setting with smaller crowds. Contrary to the big cities, the small towns offer an excellent way to experience winters in this beautiful Southern state, with a chance to enjoy a laidback atmosphere that draws you to the outdoors. Here are the best towns in Florida to visit in winter.

Destin

Destin might be better known as a summer hotspot, but this little town in northwest Florida is just as alluring during the winter months. Its often-crowded sandy beaches have fewer crowds during the cooler season, leaving you with the freedom for relaxed walks along the shores of Henderson Beach State Park. The setting is perfect for relaxing, unwinding, and enjoying the blue-green sparkly waters of the Gulf of Mexico along Destin's famed Emerald Coast. But if you want some company, you can stroll through the vibrant Destin Harbor Boardwalk and stop at the different bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops, including Life is Good, The Fudgery, and Sunset Lifestyles, to name a few, while enjoying epic views of the Emerald Coast.

But your visit to Destin would not be complete without venturing on the scenic waters, and the Buccaneer Pirate Cruise presents a luxurious way of finding undiscovered treasures on a relaxed boat trip. While multiple events are held during the cold season in Destin, nothing brings the locals and tourists together like the Shrimp and Grits Festival in February.

Pine Island

If you are looking for a picturesque island getaway to spend the cold season, Pine Island is among the best towns in Florida to check out. The largest island on Florida's Gulf Coast comprises five separate communities that impress with a peaceful hometown feel and simple way of life. Famous for its agriculture and fishing opportunities, you will find excellent angling spots along the Bokeelia Fishing Pier, which has served the local community for over a century. Alternatively, you can head to the Galt Preserve and choose between fishing, hiking, and picnicking to pass the time inside the beautiful nature preserve. If history is what floats your boat, you will discover interesting gems at the Randell Research Center, showcasing the ecology, archeology, and history of Southwest Florida. For more of this, the Museum of the Islands offers a deeper dive into the region's past, with the opportunity to browse ancient exhibits and archeological finds from the Calusa Indian community.

Marco Island

This idyllic barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico is home to high-end resorts, golf courses, marinas, and beaches that attract tourists around the year. However, the island is exceptional during the cooler months, when the temperatures are perfect for exploring the outdoors. Several parks provide a lovely setting for a lazy walk when you feel like stepping out. An excellent option is Mackle Park, which has a relaxed atmosphere, a walking trail, and facilities for basketball, sand volleyball, and fishing. Elsewhere, birdwatchers can find various local spots forming part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, including the smooth, sandy shores of Tigertail Beach, to spot species like great blue herons and ospreys.

But if you prefer indoor settings, the Marco Island Historical Society presents the perfect pastime on a chilly day. The museum hosts thousands of records you can browse to get acquainted with local history. For accommodation, you can choose from a long list of luxury beachside resorts, including Marco Beach Ocean Resort and JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort.

Crystal River

Cool temperatures in Florida bring to life one of the state's most famous marine mammals. The gentle Florida Manatees escape the colder waters of the Gulf of Mexico to warmer springs in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, such as the gorgeous Three Sisters Springs. Crystal River boasts a long list of park spaces that are perfect to visit during the winter season. At Crystal River Preserve State Park, you find various fun recreational opportunities, including kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, and bird-watching.

Alternatively, you can mix your love for history and the outdoors at the Crystal River Archaeological State Park. This pre-Columbian site houses a plaza area, temple mounds, and burial mounds that portray a primitive way of life in ancient Native American societies. A visit to Crystal River would not be complete without an intimate encounter with the town's most famous marine resident, and the Swim with Manatees boat tour provides tourists with this rare opportunity.

Mount Dora

Mount Dora's slow pace of life and relaxed atmosphere paint the picture of a quintessential small town, presenting a sweet escape from the urban hustle and bustle. This quaint destination is famous for its antique shops and festivals, and by exploring the lively downtown, you will discover several spots worth visiting. One of the highlights is the Modernism Museum, a great place to admire intricate designs of modern furniture. But if you are interested in actual history, you can step into the Mount Dora History Museum. Here, you will explore a local legacy dating back to the 1880s through exciting exhibits. Stepping outside, Mount Dora is surrounded by picturesque sceneries like Palm Island Park. This tranquil nature preserve features a promenade passing along Lake Dora and through a wooded area. You can find a laidback picnic area or fishing spot to spend quality time. Meanwhile, one of the best times in Mount Dora is during winter festivals like the Mount Dora Arts Festival or the Mount Dora Half Marathon.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine, located on Florida's northeast coast, is a historic town renowned as the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States. Rich in history, it offers numerous landmarks ideal for exploring during the cooler winter months. Begin your historical journey at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fortress in the continental U.S. Afterwards, visit the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, which displays authentic artifacts that date back at least three centuries.

If you are tired of the endless historical attractions in St. Augustine, you will find the perfect alternative at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. The facility houses over 20 crocodilian species and features among Florida's oldest continuously operating tourist attractions. Meanwhile, the outdoor inclined will find exciting opportunities at Anastasia State Park, from swimming and fishing to camping and hiking.

Naples

Naples radiates authentic Italian charm with its vibrant arts scene and upscale shopping, making it a preferred spot for snowbirds in Florida. Surrounded by stunning Gulf of Mexico views, the beach at the base of the historic Naples Pier offers an ideal setting to enjoy the scenery, even as the pier undergoes reconstruction. Once rebuilt, this historic site will resume its role as a popular spot for fishing, dolphin watching, birding, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. Additionally, the Naples Botanical Garden spans 170 acres of lush green space, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

For animal lovers, the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a lovely 43-acre facility housing exotic species like giraffes, lemurs, and gibbons that would not mind some TLC. But your visit would not be complete without sampling the vibrant shopping scene. Naples Plaza is the ideal venue to enjoy some retail therapy, hosting over 20 stores and selling everything and anything that comes to mind.

Panama City

It is hard to catch the winter blues on the sunny beaches of nearby Panama City Beach, just across the bay from Panama City, with a 27-mile stretch of smooth sand to explore. This idyllic beachside community is a snowbird magnet, thanks to its fresh seafood scenery, luxury resorts, and multiple water sports. There is so much to see and do, but you can start by visiting Oaks by the Bay Park to explore the outdoors. This scenic green space offers a delightful atmosphere for relaxing and features a waterfront boardwalk where you can view stunning sunsets. Elsewhere, you can visit the Bear Creek Feline Center for up-close encounters with amazing Florida wildcats and other exotic feline species.

Several quirky museums in Panama City and nearby Panama City Beach provide an engaging insight into the region's maritime and cultural history. For instance, the Man in the Sea Museum in Panama City Beach showcases a distinctive collection of exhibits and artifacts that detail the history of diving and underwater exploration. Additionally, the Panama City Publishing Company Museum offers a nostalgic look at the area's vintage printing craft through old machines, artifacts, and published materials. Before departing, be sure to visit Schooners, the Last Local Beach Club in Panama City Beach, to enjoy fresh seafood and the relaxed beachfront vibe, but check current hours as it may close temporarily for seasonal renovations.

The Takeaway

For years, snowbirds escaping the cold in the north have been perching in the Sunshine State to enjoy its cozy, warm weather and pristine beaches. This trend will not change anytime soon. The small towns in Florida are a desired destination, thanks to a relaxed atmosphere, friendly communities, endless outdoor opportunities, and fun winter festivals.