8 of the Quirkiest Towns in Florida

Famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and world-renowned theme parks, it is easy to see why Florida is the second most visited state in the country. And while the majority come here for famous attractions like Busch Gardens or Universal Studios, this Sunshine State is also home to some of the quirkiest towns in the United States, whose treasures are often overlooked.

Whether you hunger for a taste of the unexpected or want to branch away from your usual vacation spots, you are in luck. Each of the towns on this list has something exciting that sets it apart–something that makes it worth traveling off the beaten path for. From haunted hotels to world-record-breaking landmarks, these quirky towns and their spirited locals are thrilled to share in the whimsy.

Venice

Florida may be famous for its classic beaches, but this town has an extra special coastal quirk that people love to sink their teeth into. Venice in Florida, named after Italy’s iconic 'City of Canals,' distinguishes itself with a unique claim to fame: shark teeth. Known as the 'Shark Tooth Capital of the World,' people come from all over the country to explore Venice’s shores and take home a serrated souvenir. Among the 14 miles of sandy coast, Venice Beach is the most popular, offering ample opportunities for shark teeth and fossil hunting. There is also reef diving a quarter-mile from shore, with companies like Aquanutz Shark Tooth Diving specializing in fossil dives. Once your treasure hunt is complete, there are plenty of other beach attractions to keep you busy, such as the Venice Fishing Pier, which stretches 700 feet into the ocean, and the Brohard Paw Park, a scenic beach for your furry friends.

Sanibel

If quirky beaches intrigue you, Sanibel is a coastal town with unique shores you won't find elsewhere. Located in southwestern Florida on Sanibel Island, it boasts beaches that are a treasure trove for beachcombers and hunters. Known as the “Seashell Capital of the World,” it features over 250 types of shells that glisten between sand and sea, gifts washed ashore from the Gulf of Mexico. Remember, collecting live shells here is illegal, but you're free to gather the vacant ones. Bowman’s Beach, a popular shelling spot, offers plenty of sand and shells, so whether you're here to sunbathe or beachcomb, you're in for a treat.

Lighthouse Beach is another favorite for shell seekers, but its namesake lighthouse steals the show. Built in 1884, the historic Sanibel Lighthouse is among the oldest on the Gulf Coast. Remarkably, it survived the destruction of Hurricane Ian in 2022, losing only a single leg. After repairs, it was relit in February 2023, symbolizing the town’s resilience. Visit in the evening to enjoy its light, or during the day to explore the beach’s walking trails, picnic area, and fishing pier. Beyond shell-hunting, Sanibel offers many other sun-filled activities.

Cassadaga

For those intrigued by the supernatural or the peculiar, Cassadaga, known as the “Psychic Capital of the World,” is a must-visit. It's a hub for psychic readings and haunted hotels, embracing the unconventional. The Southern Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp is the place to book a reading. Their welcome center, in the town's heart, is where sessions with local mediums can be reserved. They advise booking in advance on their website, as slots tend to fill quickly in this spiritual haven. Just 5 minutes from the center is the Fairy Trail and Horseshoe Park, a fairytale forest adorned with whimsical decorations like toadstools and fairy homes, enchanting for children and those young at heart.

For fans of oddities and haunted artifacts, the C. Green's Haunted History House & Museum, housed in a former 1900s post office, is ideal. It blends the town's history with a spine-tingling array of strange and spooky exhibits, including a haunted doll collection and historic Ouija boards. You'll also learn about Cassadaga’s spiritual foundations, including its founder George Colby, whose Victorian seance table is a museum highlight. If you wish to extend your eerie adventure, consider staying overnight at the Hotel Cassadaga or the Ann Stevens House Historic Bed and Breakfast. Both properties, known for their haunted reputations, are key pieces of Cassadaga’s history and offer an enjoyable experience even for the most skeptical visitors.

Crystal River

While Cassadaga’s paranormal community may be thrilling, perhaps you'd prefer exhilarating experiences in nature. Heading to western Florida, we find Crystal River, boasting some of the state’s most unique and rare landscapes, primarily in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is home to the stunning Three Sisters Springs, the last unspoiled springs in Kings Bay, with their breathtaking turquoise waters. It's also the only refuge in the United States established solely to protect the majestic manatee. Excitingly, it's one of the few places in the U.S. where you can legally swim with these beautiful marine mammals. Given such rare experiences, it's no surprise that 300,000 people visit annually.

Popular activities include guided tours like Waterfront Adventures: Swimming with the Manatees. For those who prefer observing these gentle “sea cows” from a distance, kayaking or paddleboarding with agencies like Hunter Springs Kayaks is a great option. On land, Crystal River hosts the annual Florida Manatee Festival every January. Though the 2024 dates have passed, there are many other events throughout the year, like the Stone Crab Jam every November. This lively street festival celebrates the crabbing season with vendors, live music, and, of course, stone crab delicacies. Whether for manatees or festivities, Crystal River’s coastal traditions and quirks are sure to delight visitors.

Chipley

Continuing with unique natural sites, Chipley boasts a notable feature: it's home to the largest waterfall in Florida. At Falling Waters State Park, you can view this natural wonder, but comfortable shoes are recommended for the journey. The adventure begins at the Falling Waters Trailhead, leading from a paved walkway to a fern-covered path on the Wiregrass Trail. Follow the signs to the Sinkhole Trail, and you’ll soon reach the park's highlight: a 73-foot waterfall cascading into a deep sinkhole known as "Falling Waters Sink."

Beyond the park, Chipley offers a different kind of thrill at the Seacrest Wolf Preserve. This non-profit conservation area, dedicated to “preservation through education,” provides one of the most unique and rare wildlife experiences in the state. Visitors can interact closely with the preserve's socialized wolves, gaining not only education about wildlife protection but also an unforgettable story to share.

DeLand

When it comes to unforgettable experiences, DeLand is the place to be, especially for those seeking adrenaline-inducing adventures. Known as the “Skydiving Capital of the World,” thanks to its industry centered around parachute development and one of the largest skydiving drop zones globally, DeLand attracts thousands of thrill-seekers annually. For those daring enough to join their ranks, Skydive DeLand, established in 1982, welcomes skydivers of all levels. This center has witnessed various world records and is renowned for its inclusive approach to the sport.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, DeLand offers more than just sky-high excitement. Southwest of the town, Hontoon Island State Park, nestled in the St. Johns River, beckons adventurers. This 1,650-acre park, accessible by ferry, provides a stunning view of Florida's wilderness. It features 8 miles of trails and a chance to spot diverse wildlife, including river otters, tortoises, Florida black bears, and bobcats. Additionally, De Leon Springs State Park, less than 20 minutes from DeLand, invites guests with its subtropical trails and a 72° year-round natural spring, set within a 625-acre park.

Tarpon Springs

For those who prefer more relaxed attractions, towns like Tarpon Springs offer a fascinating maritime history and family-friendly coastal activities. Established by Greek sponge divers in the early 1900s, this Gulf of Mexico town proudly maintains its sponging heritage. Despite setbacks from the rise of synthetic sponges, Tarpon Springs still produces 70% of the world's natural sponges and eagerly shares this achievement with visitors.

The Historic Sponge Docks, the town's symbolic center, is the best place to experience Tarpon Springs' heritage. Surrounding the docks are numerous Greek dining options, including popular spots like Dimitri's on the Water and The Limani. The nearby Sponge Exchange, an outdoor shopping center with over 30 specialty stores, offers everything from artisanal soaps to Greek fashion, making it an ideal spot for souvenir shopping. Before leaving, visitors should fully embrace this coastal town's offerings, whether that means enjoying Howard Park Beach or joining a Sponge Diving Tour with the St. Nicholas Boat Line to witness a live sponge harvest.

Matlacha

If laid-back towns are more your style, Matlacha epitomizes easygoing charm. This artsy island village, though tiny, is full of spirit. Like Sanibel, it is resiliently overcoming the destruction caused by Hurricane Ian. Despite some structures and attractions still being under reconstruction, the town is gradually reviving its cherished businesses and signature color palette. Matlacha is known for its brightly painted homes and businesses, a tradition that began in the 1990s when the fishing industry declined. Today, while fishing remains a key part of the local economy, it's the town’s vibrant paintwork and art scene that continue to draw visitors. Slowly but surely, Matlacha is regaining its colorful vibrancy.

Businesses like the Matlacha Menagerie art gallery have reopened post-hurricane, along with community spaces like Matlacha Community Park. The park's boat ramp and kayak launch provide excellent opportunities for a day on the water. For those eager to explore Matlacha’s fish-rich waters, companies like Red Dog Charter offer guided experiences. Alternatively, you can join fellow anglers at the Matlacha Pass Bridge, fondly nicknamed “the World’s Fishing-est Bridge.” Whether you're drawn to the funky galleries or the serene shores, Matlacha's ongoing restoration is certainly a highlight of 2024.

Final Thoughts

Whether your getaway is devoted to one of these charming towns or includes a visit during a trip to another Florida destination, you're bound to encounter excitement in the unexpected. From Venice’s shark tooth-laden waters to Sanibel’s shell-strewn beaches, you might leave with a unique souvenir, but the real joy lies in the memories made along the way. For thrill-seekers, the excitement might come from getting a fortune read, skydiving, or encountering wolves. If relaxation is more your pace, towns like Tarpon Springs and Matlacha offer a blissful retreat. One thing these towns all share is the promise of experiences unlikely to be found elsewhere. As you explore these less-traveled paths in 2024, remember: the magic lies in their quirks!