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Having vacationed in Florida many times, I grew tired of the same old tourist locations and decided I wanted to find more culture and mystery in a state that seems so obvious. I was rewarded in my efforts by finding a few beaches. They are less crowded and often extraordinary; featuring such delights as towering sand dunes, wind-bent sea oats, powder-fine sand, crystal clear water, good shelling, solitude or a combination of these things.

Bahia Honda (Deep Bay in Spanish.) is the only state park in the lower Keys and one of the rare beaches in this area. The fact is this is the only natural beach in the Keys. It is glorious, brilliant white sand, turquoise water and a nice breeze; not to mention the fact that there is deep water near the beach so snorkeling is good. I spotted starfish and a lobster! The park is 524 acres and is just beautiful with dunes, coastal mangroves and hammocks. While there I went on what was left of the old Henry Flagler rail line and enjoyed the panorama of the surrrounding Keys and definitely recommend you do the same! Although the swimming is good here, I think I should mention that you should be careful of the deep water and the currents off the park.

After Bahia Honda I decided to do my research, I really wanted to find a deserted tropical island, for the seclusion and tranquility. I happened upon Cayo Costa State Park (Captiva Island). It is just amazing, from Gasparilla, Pine and Captiva islands you get a boat as that is the only way to reach the island. 2,132 acre barrier strip of sand, pine forests, mangrove swamps, oak hammocks and grasslands provides a genuine get away from it all' experience. If you are going to go somewhere I would highly recommend here!

Caladesi Island.
This was amazing, my number one visit.Again you get here by boat, with a ferry that departs hourly from nearby Honeymoon Island. This beach is ranked number 2 beach in the entire US. It is ideal for swimming, shelling, snorkeling, scuba diving, nature study, picnics and fishing. I swam, picniced and snorkeled, the water is amazing and so clear! I would say the only downside to this beach is that is only open 8am to sunset and I feel like I could stay there for weeks. If you like nature there is an awesome nature trail, three miles long winding through the interior of the island. There is also a snack bar and shelters and docks for private boats. This is a beach you don't want to miss visiting!

Although Florida has many tourist spots, I would say walk off the beaten track and you will find beauty you never knew it held and would regret not experiencing.

Learn more about this author, Nadia Zolfaghari.
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