Don’t Overlook the Charms of North Central Florida

It’s not the noisiest or most crowded part of Florida, and that’s a good thing. The North Central region of the state contains all the typical sunny scenes, water activities and inviting vacation homes you would expect from this fun-loving peninsula, and all of it is available without demanding that you battle a single theme park traffic jam.

Sticking to the upper towns, like Homosassa, means less time in transit and more time enjoying fresh air and freedom. The Gulf of Mexico and the rivers that lead there are ripe with opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploring a wilder world than you’re used to. Pack some snacks and gear and head out on a canoe ride or rent a speedier vessel for an afternoon of thrills and spills; either way the stage is set for a few days of wonderful escape.

Cedar Key is another place to consider, as its coastal perch on what’s known as The Nature Coast makes it feel perfectly far away. This historic seaport has maintained a certain old time friendliness that will make it easy to fall into a state of dreamy relaxation, and there’s plenty of key-hopping, kayaking and fresh-seafood eating to be had.

Gainesville is for river lovers, as three different waterways are here to entice you. The Santa Fe, Suwanee and Ichetucknee are open for scuba diving, tubing, rafting and more – the ocean isn’t the only means of watching your cares float away.

Just in case you’re interested, places like Jacksonville, Tampa and Crystal River (the place for manatee sightings) are within a couple hours drive of one another, so a quick day trip is entirely possible. Make it a sightseeing tour or swear off your gas guzzler and stay glued to your cottage, the choice is yours and there’s no danger of being wrong.