Any long time Floridian will tell you that real Florida is not Disney World or the glitz of Miami Beach. It’s not the upscale shops of Naples or even the white sand beaches of Siesta Key. Real Florida is the old Florida where simple things are still appreciated and people know and care about one another…places like the small towns along the Nature Coast.

Also known as Big Bend, this is the Gulf Cost region where the peninsula merges with the panhandle. Life here revolves around the springs and rivers; folks fish and kayak and swim with the manatees and are happy to share their laid-back lifestyle with tourists. The following are the four best places on the Nature Coast places to experience old Florida:

Crystal River: With the greatest concentration of manatees, Crystal River is the very best place to book a boat trip to Three Sisters Spring. This crystal clear blue hole is a favorite wintering spot for these gentle giants, who flee the colder Gulf for the 72 degree year-round waters of the spring. After a day in a wet suit, enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants and retire to one of the charming mom and pop hotels scattered around town.

Swimming with the manatees in Crystal River can be intimidating due to their sheer size

Homosassa Springs: This town’s claim to fame is Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park, home to six rescue manatees and a large wildlife park featuring native Florida birds and animals as well as exotics. Live shows are conducted several times each day and at least a half day is needed to see the entire park.

BIG TIP: You can enter the park from Fishbowl Drive, but use the main entrance on U.S. Rt. 19, where you’re admission of $9 will include a boat trip along Pepper Creek or a tram ride through the woods into the heart of the park.

Mother and baby river otters are among the many Florida animals on display at Homosassa Springs State Park

Underwater tanks at Homosassa Springs State Park allow close-up viewing of manatee feeding

Cedar Key: For a great view of the waterfront shops that hang out over the Gulf of Mexico, walk to the end of the town’s brand new municipal pier. Drop a line or arrange for an offshore fishing trip here as well. Not far away, the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge wilderness area begs to be explored by kayak.

View toward town from the municipal pier at Cedar Key

Dunnellon: Located at the confluence of the Rainbow and Wathlacoochee Rivers, this tiny town has it all – great restaurants, friendly folks, a main street lined with antique shops that occupy 100-year old historic homes, and plenty of opportunity for river sports such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. State and county parks provide access to Rainbow Springs and just down the road, boaters can put into the Gulf. The town also hosts a popular flea market on the first Saturday of every month.

Swimming in Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon

On your next trip to Florida, schedule a few extra days to explore one or more of these unique destinations. Although they’re not exactly a secret, they are lesser known and still retain their original charm.

Photos courtesy of Barbara Weibel

Article by Barbara Weibel of Hole In The Donut Travels