Florida may be famous for its beaches, theme parks, and big cities but the Sunshine State also hides dozens of small towns bursting with coastal charm, pastel architecture, and that slow-paced magic only locals truly know.
Whether you love pastel-lined streets, waterfront sunsets, or a weekend filled with good food and history, these small towns offer a refreshing escape from the crowds.
Below are 23 small towns in Florida you’ll want to visit each with its own rhythm, beauty, and reason to steal your heart
1. Mount Dora
A lakeside gem in Central Florida, Mount Dora feels like a step back in time with its tree-lined streets, antique shops, and charming waterfront.
Walk along the boardwalk, explore the Mount Dora Lighthouse, and catch one of the town’s art or craft festivals.
Pro Tip: Visit during the Mount Dora Arts Festival in February for live music, local art, and lakeside views.
2. Apalachicola
Nestled on the Gulf Coast’s Forgotten Coast, Apalachicola is where history meets laid-back fishing culture.
The town is dotted with 19th-century buildings, oyster bars, and boutique inns.
Pro Tip: Grab a dozen fresh oysters at Up the Creek Raw Bar they’re among Florida’s best.
3. Cedar Key
A quiet island town on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Cedar Key has remained beautifully untouched.
With pastel cottages, gentle waves, and pelicans gliding across the horizon, this is Florida at its most peaceful.
Pro Tip: Kayak through the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge for incredible bird-watching and sunsets.
4. Dunedin
Scottish roots meet Gulf Coast vibes in Dunedin.
You’ll find colorful murals, craft breweries, and a walkable downtown leading straight to the water. Nearby Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island are beach perfection.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike and ride the Pinellas Trail one of Florida’s best cycling paths.
5. Fernandina Beach
Located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach blends Southern hospitality with coastal beauty.
Stroll through Victorian streets, explore Fort Clinch, and end your day with a sunset over the marina.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the annual Shrimp Festival a local favorite since the 1960s.
6. Crystal River
If swimming with manatees is on your bucket list, Crystal River is where you make it happen.
This natural spring town is famous for its crystal-clear water and gentle sea cows.
Pro Tip: Go early morning for manatee tours when the water is calm and visibility is best.
7. Tarpon Springs
Known for its Greek heritage and sponge docks, Tarpon Springs feels like a Mediterranean village by the sea.
Greek bakeries, blue-domed churches, and waterfront cafes make this one of Florida’s most unique towns.
Pro Tip: Try the baklava and loukoumades at Hellas Bakery they’re legendary.
8. Seaside
Pastel houses, cobblestone streets, and white sand beaches define Seaside. It’s picture-perfect, calm, and ideal for families or couples.
Pro Tip: Catch the sunset from Bud & Alley’s rooftop bar with a cocktail in hand.
9. St. Augustine
The oldest city in the U.S. is full of cobblestone alleys, Spanish architecture, and centuries of stories.
Explore Castillo de San Marcos, shop on St. George Street, and enjoy live music in the plaza at night.
Pro Tip: Stay in a historic inn to feel the full charm of this timeless city.
10. Islamorada
Halfway down the Florida Keys, Islamorada is a laid-back paradise for fishing, snorkeling, and sunsets that seem to last forever.
Pro Tip: Stop at Robbie’s Marina to feed the tarpons it’s a Keys tradition.
11. Mount Pleasant
Quiet and full of small-town beauty, Mount Pleasant is known for its quaint shops, local art, and warm community spirit.
It’s the kind of place where everyone waves hello.
Pro Tip: Stop by local farmers markets for handmade goods and southern-style eats.
12. Anna Maria Island
Laid-back and lovely, Anna Maria Island has sugar-white beaches, wooden piers, and pastel cottages that look straight out of a postcard.
Pro Tip: Catch the sunset from Bean Point Beach it’s pure magic.
13. Micanopy
Known as “The Town That Time Forgot,” Micanopy is one of Florida’s oldest inland towns.
Expect moss-draped oaks, antique shops, and charming old buildings.
Pro Tip: Visit during the Micanopy Fall Festival for local crafts and live folk music.
14. DeLand
Just west of Daytona Beach, DeLand is a blend of college-town energy and historic charm.
Explore its murals, boutique stores, and the Stetson Mansion one of Florida’s architectural treasures.
Pro Tip: Book a guided tour of the Stetson Mansion for incredible interiors and history.
15. Matlacha
This colorful fishing village near Cape Coral is a burst of creativity and color.
Think bright-painted cottages, art galleries, and mangrove-lined canals perfect for kayaking.
Pro Tip: Stop by Bert’s Bar & Grill for live music and waterfront dining.
16. Winter Park
Near Orlando, Winter Park is all about cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, and lakeside beauty.
Take the scenic boat tour for views of elegant homes and gardens.
Pro Tip: Visit the Saturday farmers market it’s a local favorite.
17. Safety Harbor
Tucked along Tampa Bay, Safety Harbor is small but full of character.
Stroll through its walkable downtown and unwind at the historic Safety Harbor Spa.
Pro Tip: Watch the sunset at Philippe Park one of the prettiest in Tampa Bay.
18. Captiva Island
A true island escape, Captiva offers quiet beaches, shell collecting, and fiery Gulf sunsets.
Perfect for those craving tranquility.
Pro Tip: Go shelling early morning at Turner Beach it’s when the treasures appear.
19. Venice
Known as “The Shark Tooth Capital,” Venice combines classic beach vibes with Italian-inspired architecture.
Walk along Venice Avenue or hunt for fossils at Caspersen Beach.
Pro Tip: Try an evening stroll on the Venice Pier for peaceful ocean views.
20. Mount Dora
A cozy lakeside town known for art, antiques, and sunsets over Lake Dora.
The perfect weekend escape with small-town charm and welcoming locals.
Pro Tip: Take a boat tour through the Dora Canal it’s stunning at golden hour.
21. Punta Gorda
This harborfront town blends historic charm with waterfront living.
Explore Fishermen’s Village, walk the Harborwalk, and enjoy fresh seafood by the water.
Pro Tip: Rent bikes and explore the town’s scenic trails along the Peace River.
22. Apopka
Close to Orlando but filled with nature.
From Wekiwa Springs to the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, it’s paradise for outdoor lovers.
Pro Tip: Go paddleboarding at Wekiwa Springs for clear water and peaceful scenery.
23. Mount Dora (Revisited Highlight)
Yes, Mount Dora deserves a second mention because it’s one of those rare Florida towns that never stops charming.
From its lakeside sunsets to the old-world architecture, it’s the kind of place that always feels like home.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s small towns prove that you don’t need theme parks or skyscrapers to experience beauty.
These communities tell the real story of the Sunshine State filled with character, warmth, and slow, golden sunsets.
“Sometimes, the smallest towns leave the biggest marks on your heart.”
