Enjoy Clear Blue Waters At These Florida Springs
I spent a good 8 years in Florida completing two grad degrees and escaping into Florida’s clear blue springs was my favorite getaway. I would jump in my kayak or in a tube and just meander around. I could see cormorants, turtles, manatees and even alligators swimming below me - mesmerizing me and taking me away to dreamland.
While Florida is known for its clear blue springs, most of them are not hot springs. Since Florida is hot most of the year, many of the cool water springs are just as refreshing. Florida might be known for its sandy beaches and theme parks, but hidden beneath the sunshine lie natural wonders – geothermal hot springs. While not technically "hot" springs (averaging 68-74°F). There are a number of other springs and spas if you are traveling through the Gulf Islands Seashore.
Needed items for your trip:
This Microfiber towel is great because it fits in almost any bag and most springs need towels.
Goggles are great if you are sensitive to minerals and if you want to peek underwater. Oops.
A good Water Bottle is needed to stay hydrated since hot springs tend to dehydrate us.
Hiking shoes are needed for some of these. I love the Merrell brand.
Osprey Backpack is great since it protects your stuff from the rain - a daily occurrence in Florida summers.
Warm Mineral Springs Park
However, one that provides a bit of warmth during a cold January day is Warm Mineral Springs Park. With a consistent average temperature of 85 degrees year-round, Warm Mineral Springs Park provides visitors with both therapeutic and passive recreation experiences. Stay nearby at the Hampton Inn North Port for their consistently good breakfasts.
The spring, listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, is rumored to have one of the highest mineral contents of any natural spring in the United States. With anaerobic and highly mineralized properties, internationally known for its purported healing qualities, the park attracts more than 150,000 visitors annually who journey to soak in its waters.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Rainbow Springs boasts a stunning 72-foot waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool. Explore the spring on a glass-bottom boat tour or take a leisurely swim in the designated swimming area. Designated quiet zones offer some space for peaceful soaking. Stay nearby at the Comfort Inn and Suites.
For only $5 you can enjoy crystal clear waters, a fern grotto, and one of Florida’s few waterfalls - it is a flat state, you know. If you want to get away from crowds take a kayak out farther. You can rent kayaks and paddle along the river while enjoying the scenic views. The rental price is very affordable—we paid only $13 for 30 minutes today.
There’s also a cafe and a great grassy area where people were laid out on blankets and having picnics with their family or reading and relaxing.
We spotted gators, manatees, more turtles and birds than we could even count, and yes - monkeys. The park had a private zoo back in its 1930s tourist attraction days and some of the descendants are still hanging around.
Secret Tip: Rent a kayak and explore the spring run for a unique perspective.
Water Quality: 5 stars (Crystal clear, naturally filtered)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road)
Ability to be Alone: 4 stars (Larger spring with designated quiet zones)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Moderate mineral content, believed to aid relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars (Gift shop, concessions, boat rentals available)
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
By far my favorite springs to tube down while in grad school at the University of Florida, Ichetucknee Springs is a haven for water enthusiasts. The six-mile spring run is perfect for tubing, kayaking, or canoeing.
Hike a short distance to reach the springhead, a mesmerizing turquoise pool perfect for a refreshing dip. Stay at one of the numerous hotels nearby in Lake City.
We went to the north entrance first and swam in the swimming areas, then we drove to the south entrance and did the river float. If you are going to swim I would stop and get some goggles if you want the full experience, flippers would help too.
If you have your own tube / kayak / paddleboard and don't plan on using the tram service, then there is no extra charge to launch. But they do rent out anything you may need if you don't have one of your own. The south entrance is just for tubing or paddling down the river.
Secret Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season.
Water Quality: 5 stars (Crystal clear, naturally filtered)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (Requires a short walk on well-maintained paths)
Ability to be Alone: 3 stars (Moderate crowds, popular for tubing)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Moderate mineral content, believed to aid relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars (Limited amenities at the spring, basic necessities available nearby)
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is another gem in Florida’s 175 award-winning state parks, and visiting it felt like stepping into a piece of classic Florida history.
Weeki Wachee Springs is known for its iconic underwater mermaid shows. The mermaid show is a must-see and lives up to its reputation. Set in an underwater theater fed by the natural spring, the performance feels whimsical, uniquely Floridian, and surprisingly graceful.
You can explore the area by kayak—rentals are available for solo paddlers or pairs. Keep in mind that swimming in the spring is not allowed, and no food is permitted—it’s all about preserving the beauty of the environment.
If you’re looking to swim, there’s a beautiful natural pool nearby, also with crystal-clear water, surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs where you can relax and soak up the sun. The park is incredibly well developed, featuring waterslides, sandy beach areas, shaded spots, and plenty of lounge chairs designed to accommodate the high-capacity crowds that flock here—especially during peak spring and summer seasons.
Weeki Wachee is one of the best places to enjoy the river. Take advantage of their paddleboard and kayak rentals, the convenient return shuttle, and the multiple launch options they offer. You can even launch your own board or kayak, though you’ll generally need to be on the water before noon for a shuttle ride back. Walk-ins are possible, but not guaranteed—your best bet is to check their website and reserve a launch time in advance.
The constant stream of visitors means finding solitude can be challenging. Stay nearby at beautiful Hernando Beach.
Secret Tip: Consider visiting during the week or off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Water Quality: 5 stars (Crystal clear, naturally filtered)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road)
Ability to be Alone: 2 stars (Busy atmosphere, popular for mermaid shows)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Moderate mineral content, believed to aid relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (Underwater mermaid theater, gift shops, restaurants)
Ginnie Spring
Ginnie Springs is a sprawling complex known for its numerous spring-fed pools, caves, and underwater caverns. Rent a tube and float down the Santa Fe River, or explore the various pools, some offering warmer temperatures. Stay nearby at the Blue Gem motel.
You can float down the river from one end of the campground to another on a day trip. The water is so clean and crystal clear that it almost doesn't look real. Being able to see straight through to the bottom while surrounded by the beauty of nature was absolutely incredible. I spent the day tubing and paddle boarding, and it was the perfect mix of fun and relaxation.
There are several areas where you can go snorkeling, kayaking, have a BBQ, or just relax and camp surrounded by nature.
The entrance fee is $25 per person, and there may be additional charges if you want access to certain amenities.
Our recommendations are to purchase tickets online in advance, arrive early, and visit on a weekday if possible. Weekends can get very crowded, and arriving early makes a big difference. We also appreciated the facilities, including clean restrooms and hot-water showers, which made the experience even more comfortable.
Bring plenty of varieties of bug repellants, and be prepared to use a lot of firewood, charcoal and lights/flashlights, solar lights. It gets really dark at night.
Bring a waterproof case to protect your phones , keys or wallet in the water, make sure to have big hooks and a safety vest, a long leash, line. Definitely need sandals, or water shoes / water socks instead flip flops, since in the river they will drop otherwise you would be bear food
Secret Tip: Take advantage of the on-site shops to rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater wonders of the springs.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sediment, slight sulfur smell)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road)
Ability to be Alone: 2 stars (Busy atmosphere, popular for tubing and recreation)
Water Temperature: 5 stars (Multiple pools with varying temperatures)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Moderate mineral content, believed to aid relaxation)
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars (Camping facilities, concessions, equipment rentals available)
