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12 Best Places to Hike in Florida for Scenic Trails, Wildlife, and Coastal Terrain
Florida hiking is subtle, varied, and deeply tied to its landscapes. Instead of elevation gain, the state rewards hikers with coastal dune systems, pine flatwoods, shaded river corridors, and long stretches of protected wetlands where wildlife sightings are part of the experience. The best hikes here are defined by terrain shifts, changing light, and proximity to water rather than steep climbs.
This guide covers the best places to hike in Florida, focusing on destinations where trail networks are accessible from Wander stays and offer distinct, place-specific hiking experiences. Each location below highlights what makes hiking there unique, how the terrain behaves underfoot, and what to expect on the trail.
1. Destin
Hiking around Destin centers on rare coastal dune ecosystems and protected pine scrub. Trails within Henderson Beach State Park wind through sugar-white dunes and maritime forest, offering short but immersive hikes with constant Gulf views. The footing shifts between packed sand and boardwalk, keeping hikes engaging despite modest elevation.
Early mornings are best, when light cuts across the dunes and the beach feels nearly empty. Destin’s hiking stands out for its blend of shoreline and forest in a compact, walkable setting.
Things to do while hiking in Destin
Walk the interior dune trails at Henderson Beach State Park.
Combine forest paths with shoreline hiking along the park boundary.
Pause at dune overlooks for Gulf views between trail segments.
Travel tips for hiking in Destin
Sand sections can slow the pace more than expected.
Morning hikes avoid heat and beach crowds.
Wind exposure is higher along dune ridges.
Wander travel expert on hiking Destin’s dune ecosystems
“I’ve hiked coastal trails all over Florida, and Destin’s dunes are some of the most dynamic. You’re constantly moving between sand, scrub, and shade, which keeps even short hikes feeling layered and rewarding.”
Where to stay near Destin for hiking
Wander Destin Beach – This expansive 8-bathroom home sleeps up to 26 guests with 18 beds, perfect for large families or group trips. With its heated pool, spa, putting green, golf cart, and game room, it’s ideal after a day hiking the dunes and nature trails at Henderson Beach State Park, while being just two blocks from the sand.
Wander Destin Beach Crystal – A beautifully appointed beachfront property accommodating up to 20 guests. Enjoy direct beach access, a private heated pool, multiple outdoor seating areas, and a game room – all fantastic for relaxing after exploring coastal dune trails and shoreline paths around Destin.
Wander Destin Cove – A stunning 4-bed, 2-bath beachfront retreat that sleeps up to 10 guests with 6 beds, perfect for families and groups seeking direct coastal access and ocean views. Its spacious outdoor patio with BBQ, fire pit, and pool makes it a great spot to unwind after exploring the dune trails and shoreline paths at Henderson Beach State Park.
→ Explore our other luxury vacation rentals in Destin
2. Naples
Naples offers some of Florida’s most immersive flatland hiking through the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Elevated boardwalks carry hikers deep into cypress forest, where water levels, birdlife, and light conditions change dramatically along the route. The terrain feels remote despite being close to town.
Hiking here is slow and observational. You’re not covering miles quickly – you’re watching the landscape shift around you, often spotting alligators, wading birds, and ancient bald cypress.
Things to do while hiking in Naples
Hike the full Corkscrew Swamp boardwalk loop.
Pause at observation platforms for wildlife viewing.
Return at different times of day for changing light.
Travel tips for hiking in Naples
Boardwalks can be slick after rain.
Binoculars add value on longer walks.
Humidity is higher in shaded swamp areas.
Wander travel expert on hiking through Corkscrew Swamp
“This is hiking that rewards patience. Every time I’ve walked Corkscrew, the experience changes – water levels, bird activity, even the sounds. It’s one of the most atmospheric hikes in the state.”
Where to stay near Naples for hiking
Wander Naples Ranch – A spacious 3-bed, 3-bath home with room for up to 10 guests, this property features an enclosed heated pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, and a game room with pool, ping pong, and foosball. It’s perfect for relaxing after a serene day on the elevated boardwalks at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary – with plenty of space for socializing or playing yard games under the lanai.
3. Palm Coast
Palm Coast sits between the Atlantic and the Intracoastal Waterway, creating diverse hiking routes through maritime hammock and tidal marsh. Trails in Washington Oaks Gardens State Park combine coastal forest with rocky shoreline walks that feel distinct from typical Florida beaches.
The contrast between shaded inland trails and open coquina rock along the water makes hikes here feel varied without long distances.
Things to do while hiking in Palm Coast
Walk the hammock trails inside Washington Oaks Gardens.
Continue onto the shoreline paths for ocean views.
Link short loops for a longer, continuous hike.
Travel tips for hiking in Palm Coast
Coastal sections are exposed to wind.
Inland trails stay cooler under tree cover.
Rocky shoreline requires sturdy footwear.
Wander travel expert on Palm Coast’s trail variety
“What I appreciate about Palm Coast is how quickly the terrain changes. You can move from a dense hammock to an open shoreline in minutes, which keeps the hike engaging the entire time.”
Where to stay near Palm Coast for hiking
Wander Palm Coast Oceanfront – A spacious 8-bed, 5.5-bath beachfront retreat sleeping up to 12 guests, ideal for groups seeking direct sand access and ocean views. Its generous living space, beachside patio with BBQ, and proximity to coastal trails at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park make this a perfect base for nature walks and shoreline hikes.
Wander Palm Coast Beach – A five-bed, 5.5-bath home for up to 10 guests, this property blends modern luxury with resort-style features including an outdoor pool, hot tub, game room, and private beach access for easy coastal walks. It’s perfect for returning from a day of exploring hammock trails and rocky shoreline at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park.
Wander Palm Coast Breeze – This elegant 5-bed, 5.5-bath home accommodates up to 10 guests with a private pool, outdoor dining, and direct beach access. After hiking through maritime hammock and marshland near local parks, you can relax poolside or take sunset strolls along the beach just a short walk away.
4. Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s hiking centers on urban nature preserves like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Trails wind through coastal hammock just steps from the ocean, offering shaded loops with sandy footing and glimpses of the Intracoastal Waterway.
This is hiking that fits easily into a city stay, making it ideal for travelers who want nature without long drives.
Things to do while hiking in Fort Lauderdale
Loop the interior hammock trails at Hugh Taylor Birch.
Combine trail walking with short beach segments.
Explore side paths leading toward the water.
Travel tips for hiking in Fort Lauderdale
Trails are compact but interconnected.
Weekdays are quieter.
Sand sections can feel soft underfoot.
Wander travel expert on urban hiking in Fort Lauderdale
“I’ve always enjoyed how accessible hiking is here. You’re walking under a canopy, hearing birds, and then suddenly you’re near the ocean – all without leaving the city.”
Where to stay near Fort Lauderdale for hiking
Wander Fort Lauderdale Beach – A luxurious 4.5-bath urban oasis just blocks from the Atlantic and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park’s coastal hammock trails. With a heated pool, spa, private patio, and direct access to scenic shoreline walks, this property is perfect for combining nature hikes with beachside days.
Wander Fort Lauderdale Oceanfront – This 7-bed, 4-bath beachfront retreat sleeps up to 8 guests and features a private ocean-view infinity pool, hot tub, and outdoor BBQ area. Minutes from Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and scenic beach paths, it’s a wonderful base for both coastal hiking and relaxation.
Wander Fort Lauderdale Harbor – A stately 9-bed, 6.5-bath waterfront retreat with pool, jacuzzi, game room, and alfresco dining spaces, this home sleeps up to 16 guests. Its waterfront setting places you minutes from city nature preserves and the hammock trails of Birch State Park – ideal after a day of exploring urban greenways.
→ Explore our other luxury vacation rentals in Fort Lauderdale
5. Sarasota
Sarasota’s hiking highlights include Myakka River State Park, one of Florida’s largest and most varied trail systems. Trails move through prairie, pine flatwoods, and wetlands, offering long, uninterrupted hikes with frequent wildlife encounters.
This is one of the few places in Florida where distance hikers can string together longer routes without repetition.
Things to do while hiking in Sarasota
Hike the Myakka Deep Hole Trail.
Explore prairie routes during dry conditions.
Use elevated boardwalks to cross wetland areas.
Travel tips for hiking in Sarasota
Check trail conditions after rain.
Sun exposure is high in prairie sections.
Carry more water than expected.
Wander travel expert on long-distance hiking at Myakka
“Myakka is where Florida hiking feels expansive. I’ve done multiple routes here, and the sense of space – especially across the prairie – is unlike anywhere else in the state.”
Where to stay near Sarasota for hiking
Wander Sarasota Retreat – This stylish 5-bed, 3-bath home sleeps up to 10 guests with 5 beds and blends outdoor living with indoor comfort, featuring a pool, hot tub, game room, and firepit. After exploring hiking and birding trails like the Celery Fields or nearby Legacy Trail, you’ll love unwinding poolside or hosting an alfresco dinner under Florida skies.
Wander Sarasota Springs – A tranquil 5-bed, 2.5-bath retreat for up to 8 guests with 5 beds, featuring an outdoor pool, patio, and private balcony. Its relaxed indoor-outdoor layout makes it a great home base for days spent hiking scenic wetland and nature paths such as the Celery Fields, then returning to enjoy a BBQ or sunset from the patio.
Wander Sarasota Paradise – A cozy 4-bed, 2-bath property sleeping up to 6 with 4 beds, boasting an indoor pool, mini golf, and hot tub perfect for downtime after active days. Located just minutes from trail networks and parks, this home is ideal for couples or small families who want both adventure and resort-style amenities.
6. Jacksonville
Jacksonville quietly offers some of Florida’s most extensive hiking through the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Trails follow riverbanks, salt marsh, and forest, often passing historical sites without breaking the natural flow.
The terrain is flat but varied, with firm dirt paths and long sightlines across wetlands.
Things to do while hiking in Jacksonville
Walk the Theodore Roosevelt Area trails.
Follow river-edge routes through marshland.
Link multiple short trails into longer hikes.
Travel tips for hiking in Jacksonville
Tides affect marsh visibility.
Trails can be breezy near open water.
Bug protection is useful in warmer months.
Wander travel expert on Jacksonville’s overlooked trails
“Jacksonville surprised me the first time I hiked here. The trail system is extensive, and the mix of history and nature gives the hikes a depth you don’t expect.”
Where to stay near Jacksonville for hiking
Wander Jacksonville Waterfront – A luxurious 7.5-bath waterfront estate that sleeps up to 20 guests with 11 beds, perfect for large groups or multi-family trips. Enjoy the outdoor pool, hot tub, boat dock, and expansive patio after hiking the varied trails of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve – there’s plenty of space to relax lakeside or gather for meals after a day exploring nature.
7. Kissimmee
Kissimmee’s hiking shines inside Shingle Creek Regional Park, where trails follow Florida’s headwaters through shaded floodplain forest. Boardwalks and dirt paths alternate, keeping footing interesting while protecting sensitive ecosystems.
Hikes here feel quiet and immersive, especially in the early morning when wildlife activity is highest.
Things to do while hiking in Kissimmee
Walk creekside boardwalk trails.
Continue onto natural dirt paths under canopy.
Pause at water overlooks along the route.
Travel tips for hiking in Kissimmee
Flooding can alter trail sections seasonally.
Shade keeps temperatures manageable.
Early starts improve wildlife sightings.
Wander travel expert on hiking Florida’s headwaters
“Hiking Shingle Creek feels foundational. You’re walking the source of the Everglades, and that sense of origin gives the trail a significance that goes beyond distance.”
Where to stay near Kissimmee for hiking
Wander Orlando Bliss – This spacious 16‑bed, 10.5‑bath villa sleeps up to 24 guests and is equipped with a fully stocked kitchen. It's an ideal base for exploring Shingle Creek Regional Park, just a short drive away, where you can enjoy serene, shaded hiking routes. The outdoor living space is perfect for relaxation after a peaceful day in nature.
Wander Orlando Breeze – With 14 beds and 9 bathrooms, this home sleeps up to 26 guests. It features a pool, hot tub, and spacious patio for post-hike relaxation. Located near Shingle Creek and Kissimmee's scenic nature trails, it offers comfort and convenience for nature lovers, combining outdoor adventures with a private luxury retreat.
Wander Orlando Estate – A large, 30‑bed, 12.5‑bath villa for up to 46 guests, this property includes a pool, theatre, and ample space for group gatherings. The estate is just a short drive from Kissimmee's Shingle Creek trails, where you can hike in the morning and return to relax with panoramic views from the private balcony or poolside.
→ Explore our other luxury vacation rentals in Kissimmee
8. Marco Island
Marco Island hiking is best experienced at Rookery Bay, where trails move through mangrove forest and coastal uplands. Boardwalks cross tidal zones, while packed dirt paths wind through higher ground.
Hikes here are defined by water movement and birdlife rather than speed.
Things to do while hiking in Marco Island
Follow mangrove boardwalk loops.
Link upland trails for longer walks.
Observe changing tides along the route.
Travel tips for hiking in Marco Island
Tide levels affect scenery.
Boardwalks can be exposed to the sun.
Quiet pacing enhances wildlife encounters.
Wander travel expert on mangrove hiking at Rookery Bay
“This is hiking where patience matters. Every time I slow down here, I notice something new – birds, water movement, even how the trail sounds change with the tide.”
Where to stay near Marco Island for hiking
Wander Marco Island Waterfront – A luxurious 4‑bed, 3‑bath villa sleeping up to 10 guests, featuring a private pool, game room, and outdoor dining area with stunning water views. Located near the mangrove trails and coastal paths of Rookery Bay, this home is perfect for a nature‑immersed stay with relaxing amenities after scenic hikes.
Wander Marco Island Oasis – This 5‑bed, 4‑bathroom villa for up to 8 guests includes a private pool, large screened patio, and direct access to the area's quiet nature trails and beaches. After your peaceful walk through Rookery Bay's mangrove forests, you can enjoy the tranquility of the pool or outdoor dining area.
Wander Marco Island Palms – With 3 beds and 3 bathrooms, this villa comfortably accommodates 6 guests. It includes a private pool, hot tub, and a large outdoor space for group dining and relaxation. Located near Rookery Bay's lush trails, it offers both comfort and easy access to natural landscapes perfect for wildlife spotting and scenic hikes.
→ Explore our other luxury vacation rentals in Marco Island
9. Panama City Beach
St. Andrews State Park provides some of the Panhandle’s most scenic hiking, blending dune systems, pine forest, and coastal scrub. Trails shift between sandy and packed earth, offering texture underfoot and wide Gulf views.
The park’s layout allows hikers to combine inland trails with shoreline segments.
Things to do while hiking in Panama City Beach
Walk the Heron Pond Trail loop.
Link forest paths with beach hiking.
Explore lesser-used interior trails.
Travel tips for hiking in Panama City Beach
Sand sections increase effort.
Wind exposure is higher near dunes.
Morning hikes are cooler.
Wander travel expert on Panhandle coastal trails
“I’ve hiked across Florida, and St. Andrews stands out for variety. You’re never on the same terrain for long, which keeps the hike engaging from start to finish.”
Where to stay near Panama City Beach for hiking
Panama City Palms – This 7-bed property is the perfect base for up to 10 guests enjoying a hiking vacation in the Panama City Beach area. The retreat has beach access and an outdoor pool, ideal for restorative swimming after a challenging walk.
Panama City Beachside – The ultimate escape for up to 20 guests, this retreat is just one block fro the Gulf and has a BBQ grill, private pool, and fully equipped kitchen that’s perfect for preparing meals to refuel after a long hike.
Panama City Beach Shores – This exquisite coastal retreat, just a two-minute stroll from the Emerald Coast's sun-kissed shores is the ideal place to stay for up to 12 guests looking for a sophisticated escape.
10. Vero Beach
Vero Beach offers quiet, nature-forward hiking at places like the Environmental Learning Center. Boardwalks and shell paths move through lagoon islands, mangroves, and upland hammock.
Hikes are intimate and observational, shaped by water and bird activity.
Things to do while hiking in Vero Beach
Walk the lagoon island trails.
Use boardwalk loops to extend distance.
Observe wading birds along the route.
Travel tips for hiking in Vero Beach
Tides influence wildlife visibility.
Trails are mostly flat and accessible.
Quiet hours enhance the experience.
Wander travel expert on lagoon-side hiking
“These trails reward attention. I’ve found that the slower I hike here, the more the environment reveals itself – especially along the water’s edge.”
Where to stay near Vero Beach for hiking
Wander Vero Beach – A gorgeous oceanfront escape with modern design, an unbeatable ocean view, and a fire pit for cozy evenings outdoors.
11. Port St. Joe
Port St. Joe’s hiking centers on St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, where trails cut through dunes, scrub, and pine forest. The terrain feels remote, with long stretches where hikers encounter no one else.
Hikes here are about exposure, scenery, and solitude rather than technical challenge.
Things to do while hiking in Port St. Joe
Follow interior scrub trails.
Link dune paths for longer hikes.
Explore forest sections away from the beach.
Travel tips for hiking in Port St. Joe
Sun exposure is significant.
Trails feel more remote than most coastal parks.
Carry water and navigation aids.
Wander travel expert on hiking Florida’s Forgotten Coast
“This is one of the few places where hiking truly feels isolated. The landscape is open and quiet, and that sense of space stays with you long after the hike ends.”
Where to stay near Port St. Joe for hiking
Cape San Blas – This beachfront retreat sleeps up to 12 guests and is perfect for enjoying vast views of the Gulf of Mexico while relaxing after days spent hiking the local area.
Secluded Dunes – A modern coastal escape for up to 14 guests in Port St. Joe, this 4-floor property features an ocean view and outdoor pool. Enjoy a swim up bar and direct beach accessl, ideal for restorative swimming after a hike.
12. Davie
Davie is home to Tree Tops Park, one of South Florida’s most structured hiking networks. Trails include elevated observation mounds, shaded loops, and long straightaways through restored habitat.
The park’s design supports longer walks with minimal interruption.
Things to do while hiking in Davie
Walk the outer loop trails for distance.
Climb observation mounds for views.
Link shaded paths for extended hikes.
Travel tips for hiking in Davie
Trails are well maintained year-round.
Open sections can feel warm midday.
Loops make navigation simple.
Wander travel expert on structured hiking in Davie
“What I like about hiking here is the flow. The trails are designed to keep you moving without backtracking, which makes it easy to settle into a steady pace.”
Where Hiking Days End Well: Pair Trails With Luxury Vacation Rentals in Florida
The best hiking experiences don’t end at the trailhead. Choosing luxury vacation rentals in Florida near these destinations means space to recover, quiet mornings before hikes, and the comfort to plan each day around terrain rather than logistics. When your base supports the journey, the trails feel even richer.
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