10 North Florida Adventures You Won’t Find in a Guidebook

There’s a part of Florida that still feels wild, a little off the beaten path—in the best way. North Florida is full of cool little surprises: springs that stay cold year-round, towns with real history, and wide-open water where you can ride for miles without seeing another soul.

We spend a lot of time out on the water (no surprise there), and over the years, we've found some favorite spots worth sharing. Whether you're visiting for the weekend or just looking for something new to do, here's a list of experiences that show off what makes this corner of the state so special.

1. Float Through Paradise at Ichetucknee Springs

   There’s nothing like drifting down the Ichetucknee River on a hot day. Grab a tube or kayak and let the cool, clear water (always around 72°F!) do the rest. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles sunning themselves and check out the sand boils bubbling beneath the surface—snorkeling here is a must.
   

2. Get Lost in Time in St. Augustine America’s oldest city is packed with charm and history. Wander cobbled streets, explore the old fort, and grab a bite in one of the Spanish-style cafés near the Plaza de la Constitución. Stick around after dark for a ghost tour—you might hear more than just legends.
   

3. Free-Range Jet Ski Rentals on the St. Johns River No guide, no rules—just open water and a Jet Ski. St. John’s Watersports lets you explore at your own pace, including access to nearby springs. It’s freedom on the water, and unlike anything else in North Florida.
   

4. Shell Hunt at Ponte Vedra Beach Ponte Vedra’s peaceful vibe, powdery sand, and gentle surf make it perfect for beachcombing. If you're lucky, you’ll score a rare sand dollar. When you’ve had your fill of the sun, treat yourself to some fresh seafood at one of the beachside spots.
   

5. Spot Bison at Paynes Prairie Yes, bison in Florida! This giant preserve near Gainesville is home to wild horses, gators, and a birdwatcher’s dream lineup. Hike or kayak through, and don’t miss the observation tower for a sweeping view of this unexpected savanna.
   

6. Paddle the Guana Reserve Join a guided eco-tour through the Guana Tolomato Matanzas Reserve and you’ll quickly understand why locals treasure it. Glide through marshes and lagoons while spotting dolphins, sea turtles, and even the occasional manatee.
   

7. Eat Your Way Through Downtown Jax Hungry? Downtown Jacksonville’s food scene has everything—from cozy brunch spots to rooftop bars with river views. Think craft cocktails, bold flavors, and some seriously Instagram-worthy plates.
   

8. Meet Manatees at Blue Spring From fall through early spring, Blue Spring becomes manatee central. Hundreds of these gentle giants show up to enjoy the warmer waters. Walk the boardwalk for great views, or paddle nearby—just be respectful and keep your distance.
   

9. Cruise the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail This 17-mile trail winds through quiet pine forests and wetlands, perfect for a laid-back bike ride or walk. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a great way to connect with the quieter side of North Florida.
   

10. Catch a St. Johns Sunset by Boat There’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip behind the water from a boat. Whether you hop on a river cruise or rent a pontoon with friends, you’ll enjoy the breeze, maybe a cold drink, and a view that sums up why Florida evenings hit different.

That’s just a taste of what North Florida has going on. Honestly, there’s no wrong way to explore it—but we’re a little biased toward doing it by water. If you’re the kind of person who likes to go where the map ends and the fun begins, we’ve got you covered.

Come ride with us at St. John’s Watersports. No schedules, no guides—just you, your ride, and a whole lot of river to explore!