The 100% BEST Cities In North Florida To Visit NOW!

Whether you’re planning a trip to North Florida or you live here, you might not know about the beauty this area offers. From deep history to beautiful beaches, some of the best cities in the US are in North Florida. But we decided to make a list of the lesser known cities and towns.

Whether it’s the hidden gems of Fernandina Beach’s Victorian architecture, the wild and wonderful manatees of Crystal River, or the tranquil shores of Ponte Vedra Beach, cities in North Florida beckon travelers with a promise of unique experiences. For those looking to explore a side of Florida steeped in rich heritage and serene landscapes, the cities in North Florida are an invitation to discover the quieter, more genteel soul of the state.

​Here are the best cities in North Florida for you to visit in 2024

Fernandina Beach: A Victorian Seaside Escape

History Buff’s Beach Town: Think charming Victorian-era architecture with a side of beachy bliss.

Right on the border of Florida and Georgia lies Fernandina Beach is not your average beach town; it’s a slice of Victorian charm where the past and present sunbathe together. Strolling down the downtown streets feels like you’ve got one foot in modern-day Florida and the other in a 19th-century novel.

For the US history buffs, there’s Fort Clinch. An area discovered by the Spanish in the late 1700’s, later became a crucial role in the American Civil war. It’s one of the most well-preserved forts in the United States. An amazing place to visit with scenic trails and amazing view of the Atlantic Ocean/

St. Augustine: One of Best Cities in North Florida

Oldest City Vibes: Cobblestone streets, Spanish forts, and tales as old as time.

St. Augustine is where you come to get your fill of history with a Spanish flair. The Castillo de San Marcos is not just a fort; it’s a fortress of memories, battles, and beauty. Wandering through the historic streets here is like walking through a live-action history book – with better food and souvenirs. Don’t skip the Lightner Museum; it’s like the cherry on top of this historical sundae.

It’s also a great place for the kids. From petting zoos to boat rides and alligator farms, this place has it all! And for adults, you have to visit the St Augustine Distillery to have a taste of the best local spirits.

Ponce Inlet

Historic Lighthouse: Home to the largest lighthouse in Florida and one the largest in the US.

Ponce Inlet is so underrated and is one of the best cities in North Florida. A beautiful place for walks, fishing, jet ski rides and dining. Visit the top of Florida’s largest lighthouse and grab some world-class seafood at Down the Hatch.

If you’re into marine life, this is the place for you! The Marine Science Center is a wonderful place. Check out the fish, stingray’s ad turtles. And P.S. they have a turtle rehabilitation center, where you can check on rescued turtles and monitor their road to recovery.

Ponce Inlet is an amazing spot for day cocktails and nightly fun. Only a few restaurants to choose from so get there early. Check out Off The Hook and Hidden Treasures for some real authentic Florida fun.

Crystal River: Manatee Magic and Springs Galore

Manatee Capital of the U.S.: The only spot where manatees and humans can chill together.

Crystal River is all about those gentle giants – the manatees. Want to swim with these sea cows legally and ethically? This is your spot. The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for manatees and nature lovers alike. And the freshwater springs? They’re like nature’s swimming pools. Dive in, the water’s fine – and so is the company.

Daytona Beach Shores: Luxury at a Discount

Daytona Beach Light: Light on the noise, BIG on seafood and luxury

It’s one of the best hidden gems in Florida. Daytona Beach Shores isn’t just a stretch of beach; it’s a lifestyle. Here, you can wake up to the sound of waves lapping the shore and spend your day soaking up the sun on a beach that seems to go on forever.

DBS features the best restaurants in all of Florida, golf courses and one-of-a-kind vacation rentals. It’s Miami without the hussle and bussle. It’s Daytona Beach without the noise (but close enough if you want to be there). This place is truly a paradise. It’s a little slice of the Caribbean, making it one of the best cities in Northern Florida.

Flagler Beach: Salt Life and Simple Pleasures

Chill Town, USA: Unspoiled beaches, fishing pier delights, and a taste of old Florida.

If you were looking at a picture of this place, you’d think it’s Malibu in the 80’s and 90’s. Flagler Beach is that laid-back coastal town where life slows down to the speed of the tides. The beaches here are unspoiled, uncrowded, and unbelievably tranquil.

Cast a line off the Flagler Beach Municipal Pier and see what bites. Looking for a dash of history? The Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park is just a stone’s throw away and the perfect spot to ponder Florida’s sugary past.

The best memory for us was driving down this road from Daytona to St Augustine. Absolutely beautiful!

Destin, FL: Best Fishing in Florida

Beach Perfection and Angler’s Paradise: White sands and lucky fishing lines.

Destin is the jewel of the Emerald Coast, with beaches that make the Caribbean jealous. Sunbathers, beachcombers, and sandcastle architects – this is your kingdom. And for the anglers? Welcome to the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”

With one of the largest fishing fleets in Florida, you’re pretty much guaranteed a good catch. Deep-sea fishing here isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life. Grab your rod and reel in your big fish story.

Panama City Beach: Sun-Kissed Shores and Endless Fun

Splash Central: Where the Gulf’s waves and family fun go hand in hand.

Golf clubs, beautiful bars and beautiful views. Panama City Beach is where fun in the sun gets cranked up to eleven. This is a place where the sand is sugar-white, the Gulf waters are hypnotically clear, and the vibes are as warm as the sun.

Dive into the plethora of water parks, reel in a catch on a deep-sea fishing adventure, or just lounge on the beach and let the waves serenade you. As the sun sets, hit up Pier Park for some shopping, dining, and nightlife that’ll have you dancing in the moonlight.

Gainesville: A Cultural Oasis in the Heart of Florida

Gator Nation: More than just a college town, it’s a cultural powerhouse.

It’s known that this is one of the best cities in North Florida. Gainesville might be known for the Gators, but it’s also home to a vibrant arts scene, lush botanical gardens, and a community where creativity flows as freely as the springs at Ichetucknee.

Hit the trails in Paynes Prairie for some bison-spotting (yes, in Florida!), or enjoy a play under the stars at the Hippodrome Theatre. Foodies, fear not – the local dining scene here is as diverse as the ecosystems, with flavors that’ll take your taste buds on a trip around the world.