Tips for Easy Day Trips to Amazing Natural Springs Near Destin, FL That Most Tourists Never Experience

Here are some tips for easy day trips to the best natural springs near the Emerald Coast that most visitors never get to experience.

1. Morrison Springs – Ponce de Leon, FL

Located just over an hour from Destin and Miramar Beach, Morrison Springs is a hidden gem that offers crystal-clear water and an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Surrounded by lush forest, Morrison Springs is fed by a natural spring that pumps over 48 million gallons of water daily. The water stays a cool 68 degrees year-round, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim on a hot day.

• Website: Morrison Springs Park
• Estimated Time: 1 hour 15 minutes from Destin
• Cost: Free entrance
• Group Tip: Pack a picnic and spend the day enjoying the cool waters. The spring area includes a large deck, restrooms, and picnic tables, making it easy to settle in for a relaxed afternoon with your group.

For guests staying at Legacy Beach Homes’ large vacation rentals in Destin, Morrison Springs offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure that adds a unique experience to your beach vacation.

2. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park – Ponce de Leon, FL

Another fantastic spot near Santa Rosa Beach and 30A is Ponce de Leon Springs State Park. Known for its cold, clear spring waters, this park is a peaceful retreat perfect for swimming and picnicking. The spring itself flows at a rate of 14 million gallons per day and stays at a constant 68 degrees. It’s surrounded by nature trails and offers a scenic getaway just an hour from the coast.

• Website: Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
• Estimated Time: 1 hour from Santa Rosa Beach and 30A
• Cost: $4 per vehicle
• Group Tip: The park offers picnic areas and nature trails, making it a great destination for a family day trip. If you’re visiting with a larger group, arrive early to claim a shaded picnic table.

For those staying at one of our 30A large vacation homes, Ponce de Leon Springs is a quick and easy day trip, offering a refreshing change of pace from the beaches of the Emerald Coast.

3. Vortex Springs – Ponce de Leon, FL

Vortex Springs is another spring located in Ponce de Leon, and it’s a favorite spot for divers and adventure seekers. With its deep spring waters and thrilling underwater caves, Vortex Springs offers a little something extra for those looking to explore. Even if you’re not a certified diver, the clear waters make for excellent snorkeling, swimming, and paddleboarding.

• Website: Vortex Springs
• Estimated Time: 1 hour 15 minutes from Destin
• Cost: $10 per person for daily access
• Group Tip: Vortex Springs offers equipment rentals, including paddleboards and diving gear, so your group can enjoy a full day of activities. The park also has picnic areas, grills, and even a water slide for the kids.

If you’re staying at a Legacy Beach Homes’ large vacation rental in Destin or 30A, a day at Vortex Springs adds an exciting, adventurous element to your trip.

4. Cypress Spring – Vernon, FL

A bit more off the beaten path, Cypress Spring is a stunning natural spring known for its deep blue waters and tranquil surroundings. Accessible only by kayak or paddleboard, this hidden gem offers a peaceful, secluded experience. Launch your kayak from nearby Holmes Creek and paddle to the spring, where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the untouched beauty of this Florida treasure.

• Website: Cypress Springs
• Estimated Time: 1 hour 30 minutes from Miramar Beach
• Cost: Free access (small fee for kayak rentals or launch fees)
• Group Tip: Rent kayaks or paddleboards from nearby outfitters for a day of exploration. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for a day on the water, as there are no facilities at the spring itself.

For groups staying in Miramar Beach or Santa Rosa Beach, Cypress Spring is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Florida’s natural beauty away from the crowds.

5. Holmes Creek – Vernon, FL

For a more adventurous day trip, explore Holmes Creek by kayak or paddleboard. Starting from Vernon, you can paddle along the creek’s calm, scenic waters and stop at various springs along the way, including Cypress Spring. Holmes Creek is a peaceful, family-friendly paddling experience, surrounded by cypress trees, wildlife, and natural springs.

• Website: Holmes Creek
• Estimated Time: 1 hour 30 minutes from 30A
• Cost: Free (kayak rental fees apply)
• Group Tip: Plan for a 3-4 hour paddle to fully enjoy the experience, stopping at springs along the way for swimming and relaxation.

Holmes Creek offers a memorable day trip for guests staying at one of our large group vacation rentals in 30A or Santa Rosa Beach, giving your group a chance to experience Florida’s hidden springs from a unique perspective.

Plan Your Stay with Legacy Beach Homes

When planning a beach vacation for a large group, it’s important to have the perfect accommodations. At Legacy Beach Homes, we offer the largest collection of newly-built vacation homes on the Emerald Coast, specifically designed for multi-family vacations and large group gatherings. Our Destin, Miramar Beach, and 30A vacation homes provide luxurious and spacious accommodations, with features like private pools, golf carts, and free paddleboards for your convenience.

Our 8-bedroom beach homes can sleep 20+ guests, and our side-by-side homes are perfect for groups of 50 or more. After your day exploring Florida’s natural springs, come back to your beautiful vacation home, unwind, and share stories of your adventure. Visit Legacy Beach Homes today to find the perfect vacation rental for your group and start planning your next adventure.

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