Central Florida, East Coast Florida

Day 1:

Start your adventure in Vero Beach, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. After a leisurely breakfast, head to Blue Spring State Park, located about 2 hours north of Vero Beach. This natural spring is similar to Ginnie Springs and offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. Spend the morning exploring the park, taking in the stunning scenery, and enjoying the refreshing waters.

In the afternoon, make your way to De Leon Springs State Park, located just 30 minutes west of Blue Spring State Park. This park is home to another natural spring, where you can take a dip in the cool waters or rent a canoe to explore the spring run. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Old Spanish Sugar Mill, a unique restaurant where you can make your own pancakes at your table using a griddle built into each table.

Day 2:

Today, venture a bit further north to the Ocala National Forest, which is about a 2-hour drive from Vero Beach. Here, you'll find several natural springs to choose from. One option is Juniper Springs Recreation Area, a picturesque spot with a natural spring that feeds into a beautiful swimming area. You can also rent a canoe or kayak to explore the Juniper Run, a scenic waterway that winds through the forest.

Another option in the Ocala National Forest is Alexander Springs Recreation Area. This spring is known for its crystal-clear waters and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. Take a stroll along the boardwalk that surrounds the spring, or rent a canoe or kayak to explore the spring run.

Day 3:

On your final day, head south from Vero Beach to the Sebastian Inlet State Park, located about 30 minutes away. While not a natural spring, this park offers stunning beaches and excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and surfing. Take a walk along the jetty and watch the boats go by, or simply relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun.

After enjoying the beach, make your way to the nearby Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. Take a guided tour or explore the refuge on your own, keeping an eye out for various bird species, including pelicans, herons, and egrets.

In the evening, head back to Vero Beach and treat yourself to a delicious seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor the flavors of the ocean and reflect on your amazing three days exploring the natural springs of Central and East Coast Florida.