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Had enough of the crowds in Miami and Orlando? Florida is full of wonderful spots that haven't been overexposed or overbuilt. Here are five fun, low-key destinations in the Sunshine State.
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Crystal River and Homosassa Springs
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The main attraction in this area a couple hours north of Tampa is the fresh spring water that bubbles up from the Florida limestone, creating crystal-clear creeks and rivers. The Plantation on Crystal River, a hotel, has an outfit that can take you swimming with the manatees — gentle, curious creatures that gather near the springs to stay warm. Lovers of the outdoors should try a kayak ride on the pretty Chassahowitzka River with Hunter Springs Kayaks, which also offers guided manatee snorkeling tours, or you can get your motor running with a Wild Bill's Airboat Tours trip on the Withlacoochee River.
Just south of Crystal River, Homosassa Springs is home to the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, with a huge array of animals and birds to admire (including, yes, manatees). Be sure to stop at the Biscuit Barn for a Southern-style breakfast and fresh, fluffy biscuits.
There are plenty of affordable chain hotels to choose from, as well as the high-end Plantation on Crystal River, mentioned above.