Known for its endless beaches and year-round sunshine, Florida is a boating playground when it comes to finding the perfect spot to set your anchor. Whether you’re a born and raised local, a snowbird or just visiting, Florida’s coastlines are full with hidden gems along the way that will never stop pleasantly surprising you. Here are some of the best kept secrets Florida waters have to offer that locals don’t want you to know about:
1. Anna Maria Island – Bradenton | View on map
Just south of the city Clearwater is Anna Maria Island. Complete with a quaint beach town that is never over-run by tourism, this island is seven miles of pure white sand and crystal clear water. Cruise along the calm the Gulf Coast waters and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of being on Island time.
2. Silver Glen Springs – Ocala | View on map
If you’re looking for a different scene other than coastal waters, Silver Glen Springs is hidden inland, amongst the beautiful Florida everglades. This natural swimming pool offers clear and shallow water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. While boats are not allowed in the spring pool, the spring run is open for recreational boating which can be found taking the St. Johns river into Lake George.
3. John’s Pass Sand Bank – Treasure Island | View on map
Make some new friends, and bring some old ones. What’s better than being surrounded by people who share a passion for being on the water? On the weekends, John’s Pass Sand Bank off of Treasure Island becomes a hotspot for the local boating community. Set your anchor and float along side fellow recreational boaters for a day of fun in the sun, perfect for the whole family.
4. Egmont Key – St. Petersburg | View on map
Tampa is up and coming as one of the best places to live, and to visit in Florida. Along with its exiting city, the Tampa area is famous for its bay. In the bay area you will the city of St. Petersburg; known for its water-front focused community. But venture a few miles south and you’ll discover Egmont Key, only accessible by boat. Still preserved as a remote island with an abundance of wildlife, you will not want leave this secret sanctuary.
5. Caladesi Island – Clearwater | View on map
This small island feels more like the Caribbeans than Florida. Caladesi Island sits just west of Dunedin, Florida on the gulf coast, and is easily accessible by boat. Drop your anchor virtually anywhere along the beach line and bring your beach chairs to shore to enjoy a calm sea breeze.
6. Disappearing Island – New Smyrna Beach | View on map
Quite literally a hidden gem, Disappearing Island is a local favorite for the popular east coast beach of New Smyrna. If you don’t come at the right tide, you won’t find anything but open water. But come low tide, the waters reveal a sand bar you can pull right up to and set your anchor. If you’re not one for large crowds, then try to avoid coming here on the weekends when New Smyrna locals and visitors crowd the small bay area.
No matter where you choose to be your destination, Florida’s water will never disappoint. At Regal, we strive to build boats that ensure you never have to compromise on where you want to go. Click here to learn more about the thoughtful innovation engineered into a Regal.
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