Wildwood FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Wildwood, Florida.
1. Fort Island Gulf Beach
DOLPHIN-WATCHING GULF GETAWAY
Fort Island Gulf Beach is a tranquil Gulf of Mexico shoreline located about 43 miles west of Wildwood, reachable in approximately 40-45 minutes by car. Visitors can enjoy picnic facilities with shaded areas by tables and changing rooms, making it an accessible destination for people of all ages. The beach is known for frequent dolphin sightings, with dolphins sometimes swimming close to the shore, offering memorable wildlife encounters for beachgoers.
2. Rainbow Springs State Park
CRYSTAL CLEAR SPRING WATERS
Rainbow Springs State Park features pristine, crystal-clear spring waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling activities. The park boasts beautiful waterfall features, lush gardens, and natural phosphate pits that highlight Florida's mining history. Visitors can enjoy tubing down the Rainbow River, observing diverse wildlife, or simply relaxing in the park's serene natural environment.
3. Juniper Springs Recreation Area
PRISTINE FOREST SPRINGS OASIS
Juniper Springs Recreation Area offers a picturesque swimming hole surrounded by the lush Ocala National Forest. The crystal-clear, 72-degree spring waters provide refreshing swimming opportunities in a natural setting with limestone formations. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing, hiking through the surrounding forest trails, or relaxing in one of Florida's oldest and most beloved recreation areas.
4. Lake Panasoffkee
ANGLER'S SPRING-FED PARADISE
Lake Panasoffkee is a sprawling 4,500-acre spring-fed lake near Wildwood known for exceptional fishing opportunities, particularly for largemouth bass and bluegill. The lake features several public access points, boat ramps, and swimming areas for visitors seeking water recreation. Its shallow, clear waters and abundant wildlife make it a favorite destination for boating enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
5. Weeki Wachee Springs
MERMAID SHOWS NATURAL WONDER
Weeki Wachee Springs is a unique natural attraction featuring world-famous live mermaid shows performed in the crystal-clear spring waters. The park includes Buccaneer Bay, Florida's only spring-fed waterpark, complete with water slides, a swimming area, and a white sand beach. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife shows, river cruises, and kayaking on the stunning Weeki Wachee River.
6. Wekiwa Springs State Park
NATURAL SPRINGS WILDERNESS ESCAPE
Wekiwa Springs State Park centers around a natural spring with emerald waters maintaining a refreshing 72-degree temperature year-round. The spring creates a natural swimming area surrounded by lush Florida hammock forest and serves as the headwaters of the Wekiva River. Visitors can swim in the spring, rent canoes or kayaks to explore the river, hike numerous trails, or enjoy picnicking in this pristine natural setting.
7. Lake Louisa State Park
SCENIC MULTI-LAKE PLAYGROUND
Lake Louisa State Park encompasses six beautiful lakes, with Lake Louisa being the largest and offering designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. The park provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding across its interconnected waterways. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking trails, cabin accommodations, and camping facilities while experiencing the park's diverse ecosystems.
8. Eatons Beach
LOCAL LAKESIDE RETREAT
Eatons Beach is a popular local swimming spot situated on the shores of Lake Weir, approximately 14 miles northeast of Wildwood. The beach area features sandy shores, swimming access, and boat rentals for those looking to enjoy watersports on the lake. Visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, nearby dining options, and beautiful sunsets over the water.
9. Silver Glen Springs
TURQUOISE WATERS NATURAL POOL
Silver Glen Springs features a stunning natural swimming area with crystal-clear turquoise waters flowing from an underwater cavern at a consistent 72 degrees. The spring run flows into Lake George, creating a unique swimming experience where freshwater and occasional saltwater fish can be observed in the same area. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, picnicking, and wildlife viewing in this picturesque setting within the Ocala National Forest.
10. Alexander Springs
ANCIENT BUBBLING SPRING POOL
Alexander Springs is one of the few first-magnitude springs in Florida, producing a stunning natural pool with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The spring basin features a gradual slope from shallow to deeper areas, making it accessible for swimmers of all ages and abilities. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, canoeing on Alexander Run, and observing the diverse plant and animal life in this pristine natural area.