Florida is renowned for its beaches, but its lakeside towns offer equally enchanting escapes with serene waters, outdoor activities, and charming communities. Here are ten of the most picturesque lakeside towns in the Sunshine State:
1. Mount Dora
Nestled on Lake Dora, Mount Dora is often called “Festival City” due to its numerous annual events, including the Mount Dora Arts Festival. This quaint town is known for its antique shops, historic architecture, and cozy waterfront restaurants. Visitors can explore Palm Island Park, admire the iconic Grantham Point lighthouse, or enjoy fishing and boating on Lake Eustis.
2. Winter Park
Located just 30 minutes from Orlando, Winter Park offers a tranquil escape with several lakes perfect for fishing, boating, and paddleboarding. The town is rich in culture, featuring attractions like the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens. Its charming downtown area is ideal for strolling and dining.
3. Tavares
Known as Florida’s “Seaplane City,” Tavares sits on the shores of Lake Dora. Visitors can watch seaplanes land while enjoying waterfront dining or exploring trails along the scenic Dora Canal. The revitalized downtown area features boutique shops and eateries, blending historic charm with modern amenities.
4. Eustis
Eustis offers a peaceful retreat on Lake Eustis with its vibrant downtown filled with antique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like Ferran Park and the Historic State Theater. The town hosts lively events such as GeorgeFest and Fall Festival while providing opportunities for fishing, hiking, and boating.
5. Clermont
Clermont is a lakeside gem surrounded by rolling hills and pristine lakes just west of Orlando. Its waterfront area along Lake Minneola features trails, parks, and a scenic boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, sunbathing on white-sand beaches, or exploring the revitalized downtown with its farmers’ market and local shops.
6. Howey-in-the-Hills
This charming small town overlooks Little Lake Harris and offers a relaxing atmosphere with upscale dining options and a marina for boating enthusiasts. Known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities like fishing and golfing, Howey-in-the-Hills is perfect for those seeking tranquility.
7. Lake Placid
Lake Placid boasts 29 lakes, including Lake Istokpoga, making it a haven for fishing and water sports enthusiasts. The town is famous for its colorful murals that adorn nearly every building, offering a unique outdoor art gallery experience. Visitors can also explore local attractions like Henscratch Farms Winery or Lake June-In-Winter Scrub State Park.
8. DeFuniak Springs
This architectural paradise features Victorian homes surrounding one of only two perfectly circular natural lakes in the world. Visitors can enjoy hiking at Lake Stanley Park or stroll through historic streets lined with ornate buildings. The Circle Dive Historic Center provides insights into the town’s rich history.
9. Sebring
Known as “The City on the Circle,” Sebring sits along Lake Jackson and offers year-round water activities like swimming and paddleboarding. Its historic downtown features boutique shopping and dining options, while nearby citrus groves provide scenic landscapes for hiking enthusiasts.
10. Leesburg
Situated between Lake Harris and Lake Griffin, Leesburg offers direct access to the Ocklawaha River for boating and paddling adventures. Nature lovers can explore nearby preserves or hidden fishing spots while enjoying locally owned restaurants in this bustling lakeside community.
These lakeside towns in Florida combine natural beauty with cultural charm, offering visitors unforgettable experiences ranging from outdoor adventures to leisurely strolls through historic downtowns. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or recreation, each destination provides a unique slice of Florida’s inland allure.
Sources:
- https://financebuzz.com/lakeside-towns-in-florida
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-04-03-humble-destination-named-the-most-popular-lake-town-in-florida/
- https://www.lakefrontflorida.com/florida-lakefront-cities.html
- https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/8-most-charming-lake-towns-in-florida.html
- https://espnswfl.com/2023/07/05/florida-is-home-to-one-of-the-best-lake-towns-in-the-country/
