Coleman FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Coleman, Florida.
1. Wekiwa Springs State Park
HISTORIC ORANGE COUNTY OASIS
Wekiwa Springs State Park features emerald springs feeding the Wekiwa River and lush tropical hammocks just minutes from Downtown Orlando. Visitors can cool off in the crystal-clear spring waters, explore miles of trails on foot, bike or horseback, or rent canoes and kayaks on site. This unique park has been Orange County's oldest attraction since the mid-nineteenth century, making it perfect for observing abundant wildlife or escaping the summer heat.
2. Ginnie Springs
CRYSTAL CLEAR SPRING WATERS
Ginnie Springs, located along the Santa Fe River close to High Springs, is cherished for its breathtaking purity and diving opportunities. The spring maintains a year-round 72°F temperature, providing crisp, refreshing water suitable for swimmers of all skill levels. Amenities include on-site camping, picnic tables, restrooms, and snack bars, making it one of the most popular swimming destinations in Florida.
3. Madison Blue Spring State Park
SPRING TO RIVER SWIMMING
Madison Blue Spring State Park allows visitors to swim out of the crystal-clear spring and directly into the Withlacoochee River. The park is renowned for its stunning underwater visibility and refreshing 72°F waters that provide relief from Florida's heat. Nature lovers appreciate the park's natural setting while enjoying one of Florida's most pristine swimming experiences.
4. Ichetucknee Springs State Park
REFRESHING RIVER TUBING
Ichetucknee Springs State Park offers a beloved Florida tradition of tubing down the crystal-clear Ichetucknee River. The park features multiple springs feeding into the river, creating a refreshing natural water experience through a pristine Florida landscape. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the headspring or floating downstream while observing the abundant wildlife in this protected natural area.
5. Blue Spring State Park
MANATEE VIEWING PARADISE
Blue Spring State Park is famous for its crystal-clear waters where visitors can swim and potentially snorkel near manatees during the designated seasons. The spring maintains a constant 72°F temperature and serves as a winter refuge for West Indian manatees from November through March. Beyond swimming, the park offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the St. Johns River.
6. Venetian Pool
HISTORIC SPRING-FED POOL
The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables stands as a historic swimming destination created from a natural spring. This architectural gem features waterfalls, cave-like grottos, and coral rock formations that create a unique Mediterranean atmosphere in the heart of Florida. Dating back to 1923, it remains one of the most distinctive public swimming pools in America, drained and refilled daily with fresh spring water.
7. Florida Caverns Blue Hole Spring
OTHERWORLDLY SWIMMING EXPERIENCE
Blue Hole Spring at Florida Caverns State Park creates an otherworldly swimming experience where mist gathers around cypress tree stumps in a mystical setting. The spring's remarkably clear waters allow swimmers to see deep into the underwater landscape while enjoying the refreshing natural pool. This hidden gem provides a unique combination of geological wonders and natural swimming opportunities in Florida's panhandle.
8. Miami Beach
VIBRANT COASTAL PARADISE
Miami Beach captivates visitors with its vibrant turquoise waters and colorful lifeguard shacks that have become iconic symbols of this coastal paradise. The beach offers a lively scene with interesting people, beautiful sand, and plenty of recreational opportunities from swimming to paddleboarding. Visitors can enjoy the energetic atmosphere while walking along Washington Avenue, Collins Avenue, and Ocean Drive to experience the full Miami Beach vibe.
9. South Pointe Park
URBAN WATERFRONT RETREAT
South Pointe Park in Miami combines natural beauty with urban sophistication through its waterfront walkway, fishing pier, and views of modern highrises. The park provides multiple water access points for swimming and wading, with panoramic views of cruise ships passing through Government Cut. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities including a playground, grassy areas for picnicking, and the surrounding water views that create a perfect urban beach escape.
10. Big Fir Public Use Area
CRYSTAL CLEAR LAKE SWIMMING
Big Fir Public Use Area at Lake Ouachita is renowned for its exceptional water clarity and quality, making it an ideal swimming destination. The area provides designated swimming zones with gradual entry points suitable for families and swimmers of all ages. Visitors can enjoy the pristine waters while surrounded by scenic natural beauty that characterizes this popular Florida lake recreation site.