Wild swimming spots in Florida

From the open sea to hidden springs, cenotes and canyons, there is nowhere better than Florida for wild swimming spots.

Adventurous swimmers will find hidden watering holes right across the Sunshine State.

It’s a rewarding way to connect with nature and to beat the heat.

Discover the springs in Crystal River, Sebring’s serene lakeshores and many more captivating swimming destinations.

Here’s a roundup of Florida’s best wild swimming spots:

Visit St. Pete/Clearwater

Visitors can escape the crowds at St. Pete/Clearwater’s natural watering holes. From gems like the serene Sand Key Park, offering a romantic beach escape with Gulf views, to Spring Bayou, known as the ‘Golden Crescent’, to experience serene nature surrounding its brackish waters.

Crystal River

Widely known as the Manatee Capital of the World, Crystal River, is the only place in the United States to legally experience the up-close encounter of swimming with these gentle giants. Located in Central Florida’s Gulf Coast, Crystal River and the surrounding cities of Old Homosassa, Inverness and Floral City are an authentic showcase of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Pristine swimmable springs and a network of rivers, lakes, marshlands, and mangroves make Crystal River perfect for wild swimming.

Columbia County

Florida’s Columbia County hosts the meeting point of the Santa Fe River and Suwannee River and is fondly known as the Springs Capital of the US. Conveniently located between Jacksonville and Tallahassee, this subtropical paradise invites visitors to explore its lush pine forests and crystal-clear natural springs, with an array of year-round swimming options.

Columbia County boasts miles of rivers, trails, aquatic caves, and waterfalls. Ichetucknee Springs State Park, a cherished destination just north of Gainesville, features eight major crystal-clear springs along the six-mile Ichetucknee River. It offers paddling, tubing and snorkeling, as well as wild swimming. What’s more, the water maintains a constant, invigorating temperature of 22 degrees Celsius throughout the year. For the adventurous, Blue Hole Spring provides a secluded haven with its 40-feet-deep turquoise waters, attracting cave divers. Additionally, Rum Island Spring and Park, has a fascinating history rooted in 1930s moonshine lore, and now stands as a pristine swimming spot for families.

Sebring

For relaxation, Sebring’s lakeside beaches promise just that. Highlands County boasts more than 100 lakes, including Lake Istokpoga, Florida’s fifth largest lake. Explore Fisheating Creek and Arbuckle Creek, the last free-flowing stream in South Florida or at the popular City Pier Beach on Lake Jackson, featuring white sands and amenities like covered picnic tables and play areas. Other must visit spots include Hidden Beach Crescent Beach, Donaldson Park Beach and Lake Tulane Park, which are some of the state’s best-kept secrets.

Walton County

Travelers can delve into the underwater wonders of Walton County, where 26 miles of shoreline meet the Gulf of Mexico, providing easy access to Choctawhatchee Bay and rare coastal dune lakes. You can explore these waters through swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, or boating.

Wild swimming is an exhilarating and deeply fulfilling activity but it’s crucial to choose safe locations, avoiding areas with strong currents and hazardous wildlife. Refraining from disrupting wildlife, and avoiding damage to vegetation are essential practices.

To find out more, visit www.visitflorida.com 

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