Adrenaline Junkie, Adventure, Beaches, Bucket List, Central Florida, Citrus County, Florida, Golf, Hiking, Kayaking, Motorcycles, Nature Lover, Off Roading, Restaurants, Springs, Ziplining

The Ultimate List of Fun Things to Experience in Floridas Nature Coast

Florida’s Nature Coast is a hidden gem bursting with adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping outdoor activities, serene encounters with wildlife, or charming coastal towns to explore, this region offers it all. From kayaking crystal-clear springs and swimming with manatees to discovering off-road trails and savoring fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, there’s no shortage of fun. In this ultimate guide, we’ll dive into the top things to do while visiting Florida’s Nature Coast—perfect for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to embrace the Sunshine State’s wild side.

🌴 World-Class Recreation & Outdoor Adventures

Visiting Florida’s Nature Coast means you’ll have bucket-list adventures right outside your door. Whether you love the outdoors, golfing, or exploring new experiences, Citrus County has it all. Citrus County offers a wealth of outdoor activities and exciting adventures for all types of interests. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adrenaline, there’s something here for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in the area:

🌅 Sunset Cruises

A sunset cruise on the Gulf of Mexico is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning views and the opportunity to see dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife as the sun sets over the horizon.

  • River Ventures: Offers private sunset boat tours for an intimate view of wildlife and scenic sunsets.
  • The Crystal River Watersports: Provides sunset and dolphin cruises with knowledgeable guides.

🛶Boat Cruises

🌊Waterfront Dining

crumpslandinghomosassaflorida
crumpslandinghomosassaflorida

🍹 CRUMPS LANDING

Tropical tiki bar and grill with waterfront dining, live music, seafood, and cocktails. Known for its laid-back island vibe.
📍 Location: 11210 W Halls River Rd, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 564-0902
🌐 crumpslanding.com

🍹 TIPSY TARPON SEAFOOD SHACK

Casual waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood, burgers, and tropical cocktails with outdoor seating overlooking Kings Bay. Live music on weekends.
📍 Location: 300 NW US Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 795-1797

🌴 SEAGRASS WATERFRONT & TIKI BAR

Waterfront restaurant serving seafood, steaks, and cocktails with outdoor tiki bar seating along the Homosassa River. Live music on weekends.
📍 Location: 10386 W Halls River Rd, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 503-2007
🌐 seagrassresort.com

🌊 CRACKER’S BAR & GRILL

Casual, laid-back restaurant offering fresh seafood, steaks, and drinks with outdoor seating overlooking Kings Bay. Live music on weekends.
📍 Location: 502 NW 6th St, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 795-3999
🌐 crackersbarandgrill.com

🌅 THE FREEZER TIKI BAR

Famous for its steamed shrimp, this no-frills tiki bar offers cold drinks and waterfront views along the Homosassa River. Cash only.
📍 Location: 5590 S Boulevard Dr, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 628-2452
🌐 No website

🌊 TWO POPS SANDWICH & SMOKEHOUSE

Casual eatery offering smoked meats, sandwiches, and seafood with scenic waterfront views along the Homosassa River.
📍 Location: 6301 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 503-2027
🌐 twopopsbbq.com

🦀 PECK’S OLD PORT COVE

Rustic seafood restaurant known for its fresh blue crabs, fish, and beautiful sunset views over the marshes.
📍 Location: 139 N Ozello Trail, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 795-2806
🌐 pecksoldportcove.com

🐟 WATERFRONT SOCIAL

Upscale yet casual dining featuring seafood, steaks, and cocktails with scenic views of Kings Bay. Indoor and outdoor seating.
📍 Location: 1610 SE Paradise Cir, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 795-1555
🌐 waterfrontsocialcr.com

🌅 BAYSIDE BAR & GRILL

Relaxed spot offering seafood, burgers, and drinks with outdoor seating and views of the Homosassa River.
📍 Location: 5297 S Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 503-2008
🌐 No website

🍺 MONKEY BAR AT FLORIDA CRACKER RIVERSIDE RESORT

Laid-back bar with riverfront views, casual bites, and cold drinks. Known for its live music and fun atmosphere.
📍 Location: 5297 S Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 628-2474
🌐 floridacrackerriversideresort.com

🦪 CHARLIE’S FISH HOUSE & SEAFOOD MARKET

Seafood restaurant and market offering fresh-caught fish, oysters, and more with waterfront dining overlooking Kings Bay.
📍 Location: 224 NW US Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 795-3949
🌐 charliesfishhouse.com

🍤 SHRIMP LANDING RESTAURANT

Casual seafood spot offering shrimp, fish, and homestyle dishes with outdoor seating and views of the Barge Canal.
📍 Location: 12645 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 795-4380
🌐 No website

🌴 MARGARITA BREEZE

Island-style restaurant and bar with fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and views of the Homosassa River. Occasional live music.
📍 Location: 5813 S Boulevard Dr, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 503-2013
🌐 No website

🍔 NORTON’S RIVERSIDE SPORTS BAR & GRILL

Casual sports bar with pub food, cold drinks, and a waterfront deck overlooking the Withlacoochee River.
📍 Location: 16 NE 5th St, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 563-0411
🌐 No website

🦞 WILD SASSA

Outdoor seafood shack serving fresh, locally sourced seafood with picnic tables along the water. Known for its laid-back vibe.
📍 Location: 5380 S Boulevard Dr, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 613-4383
🌐 wildsassa.com

🐟 BACKWATER FINS

Casual waterfront restaurant offering seafood, burgers, and drinks with dockside seating on the Homosassa River. Live music on weekends.
📍 Location: 13982 W Ozello Trail, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 794-6000
🌐 backwaterfins.com

🌅 RIVERSIDE CRAB HOUSE

Seafood restaurant with stunning riverfront views, offering crab legs, shrimp, and other coastal favorites. Located at the Homosassa Riverside Resort.
📍 Location: 5297 S Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 628-2474
🌐 riversideresorts.com

🎣 Fishing & Fishing Charters

fishing charter crystal river florida
fishing charter crystal river florida

Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, Citrus County’s waters offer some of the best fishing in Florida, from freshwater lakes to the deep Gulf waters.

Captain Tim’s Fishing Adventures:Specializes in saltwater and freshwater fishing trips.

📍 Location: 3301 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 628-2627
🌐 captain-tims-fishing-adventures.com

Fish with the Pros: Offers guided fishing charters targeting snook, redfish, trout, and more.
📍 Location: 5250 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 419-5412
🌐 fishwiththepros.com

Florida Fishing Adventures
📍 542 N Citrus Ave, Crystal River, FL
📞 (352) 634-4002
🌐 floridafishingadventures.com

Reel Florida Fishing Charters
📍 Crystal River, FL
📞 (352) 601-1963
🌐 reelfloridafishing.com

🐋 Swim with Manatees

diving with manatee in crystal river florida
diving with manatee in crystal river florida

Citrus County is the best place to swim with manatees, the gentle giants of Florida. Visit Crystal River, the only location in the U.S. where it’s legal to interact with these magnificent creatures.

River Ventures
📍 498 SE Kings Bay Dr, Crystal River, FL
📞 (352) 564-8687
🌐 riverventures.com
Bird’s Underwater Dive Center
📍 320 NW Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL
📞 (352) 563-2763
🌐 birdsunderwater.com
Crystal River Watersports
📍 2380 NW US-19, Crystal River, FL
📞 (352) 795-7033
🌐 crystalriverwatersports.com

⛳️ Golf

Bucket List Golf Destinations in Florida's Nature Coast black diamond ranch
Bucket List Golf Destinations in Florida’s Nature Coast black diamond ranch

Citrus County is home to some world-class golf courses, including Black Diamond Ranch’s Quarry Course, which is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the country. ⛳️ Play the Legendary Quarry Course: Golf enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Black Diamond Ranch is home to “the 5 best consecutive holes of golf in the world,” according to famed sportswriter Dan Jenkins. This world-renowned course offers stunning scenery and a challenging experience for golfers.

  • Golf Courses:
    • Black Diamond Ranch: Known for the Quarry Course, offering challenging holes and stunning views.

🛶 Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

springs citrus county florida clear kayak
springs citrus county florida clear kayak

Explore the pristine waterways of Citrus County, from the crystal-clear Three Sisters Springs to the winding Withlacoochee River. Whether you’re kayaking or trying out stand-up paddleboarding, these activities are perfect for nature lovers.

🐚 Scalloping

scalloping crystal river florida
scalloping crystal river florida

Scalloping is a classic Florida summer activity, and Citrus County’s shallow waters are perfect for this fun and rewarding adventure. Paddle through Three Sisters Springs, fish the Gulf waters, or dive for fresh scallops—an iconic Florida summer activity. 

🎤 Live Entertainment

Music Bingo – COPP Brewery Every other Wednesday 5:30-7:30PM

Music Bingo – Twysted Vyne – First and third Mondays 6pm-8pm

Music Bingo – Cedar River Seafood – Thursdays 7:00pm

🥾 Hiking

hiking citrus county florida
hiking citrus county florida

The area is a haven for hiking enthusiasts, offering miles of scenic trails through state parks and nature preserves. You can hike through lush forests, along rivers, and past springs.

  • Withlacoochee State Forest: Offers a variety of hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Fort Island Gulf Beach: A scenic location with walking paths and beautiful Gulf views.
    • 📍 Location: 1600 S Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL
    • 📞 Contact: (352) 795-2201

🧗‍♀️ Ziplining

ziplining the canyons florida
ziplining the canyons florida

Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Park in Ocala is a must for adrenaline junkies looking to experience the thrill of flying through the trees over canyons and lakes.

  • Tour Company:
    • Canyons Zip Line & Adventure Park:Offers ziplining adventures through Ocala’s scenic landscape.

🌊 Springs

kingslanding crystal river florida
kingslanding crystal river florida

The springs of Citrus County are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and tubing, offering some of the clearest water in the country.

Three Sisters Springs: A famous spot for swimming with manatees and enjoying pristine natural beauty.
📍 Location: 123 NW 3rd St, Crystal River, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 503-0304
🌐 crystalriverpreserve.org

Hunter Springs Kayaks
📍 36 NE 4th St, Crystal River, FL
📞 (352) 228-4715
🌐 hunterspringskayaks.com

Rainbow Springs State Park
Known for its crystal-clear waters, scenic waterfalls, and lush nature trails. Popular for swimming, tubing, and kayaking.
📍 Location: 19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 465-8555
🌐 floridastateparks.org

Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
A unique underground spring inside a cave, perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. The crystal-clear water maintains a year-round temperature of 72°F.
📍 Location: 5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 528-3344
🌐 devilsden.com

Silver Springs State Park
Famous for its glass-bottom boat tours, this spring offers stunning views of the underwater scenery and wildlife. Visitors can also kayak, paddleboard, and hike the surrounding trails.
📍 Location: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 236-7148
🌐 floridastateparks.org

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Home to the iconic mermaid shows, this spring offers kayaking, swimming, and boat tours along the Weeki Wachee River.
📍 Location: 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 610-5660
🌐 weekiwachee.com

Alexander Springs Recreation Area
Located in Ocala National Forest, this spring is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and camping. Its wide basin and clear waters make it a family favorite.
📍 Location: 49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 669-3522
🌐 fs.usda.gov

Juniper Springs Recreation Area
Also in Ocala National Forest, this spring offers swimming, canoeing, and camping. The scenic trails and historic mill make it a picturesque destination.
📍 Location: 26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL
📞 Contact: (352) 625-3147
🌐 fs.usda.gov

🚙 Off-Roading & Adrenaline Junkies

broncorapteroffroading
broncorapteroffroading

Citrus County offers trails and parks for off-roading, ATV adventures, and more for adrenaline junkies.

  • Off-Roading Locations:
    • Croom Motorcycle Area: Offers ATV, Off Road Vehicle, and dirt bike trailsfor all skill levels.
    • Tread Lightly Four Wheel Drive Way
      • Offers a scenic off-road trail with varying difficulty levels, suitable for full-size vehicles. Known for its sandy terrain, water crossings, and forested paths.
      • 📍 Location: Ocala National Forest, FL
      • 📞 Contact: (352) 625-2520
      • 🌐 fs.usda.gov
    • Citrus Wildlife Management Area Off-Road Vehicle Trails
      • Features over 50 miles of marked off-road trails, perfect for full-size 4×4 vehicles, ATVs, and dirt bikes. The trails wind through pine flatwoods and sandhills.
      • 📍 Location: 8639 Trail 10, Inverness, FL
      • 📞 Contact: (352) 732-1225
      • 🌐 myfwc.com

🏖 Beaches

best beach for shelling florida
best beach for shelling florida

Citrus County’s Gulf Coast offers beautiful, uncrowded beaches perfect for relaxation or water sports.

  • Popular Beaches:
    • Fort Island Gulf Beach: A peaceful, less-crowded beach with fishing, swimming, and picnicking.
      • 📍 Location: 1600 S Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL
      • 📞 Contact: (352) 795-2201

🏍 Motorcyclists 

The scenic back roads and nature trails of Citrus County are perfect for motorcyclists.

Citrus County Scenic Route (Highway 19): This scenic highway takes motorcyclists through Citrus County, offering views of the Gulf Coast, forests, and rural landscapes. It’s a great route to experience the natural beauty of the area while riding at a relaxed pace.
Route Information: Starts in Crystal Riverand heads south through Homosassa and Spring Hill.
📍Location: Highway 19, Crystal River to Spring Hill, FL

Florida’s Historic Coast Scenic Route: This route showcases coastal scenery, winding through shoreline areas, and beautiful state parks. This route is perfect for motorcyclists who enjoy riding near the water and experiencing Florida’s coastal charm.
Route Information: Starting from Homosassato Port Richey, the route includes scenic water views, small towns, and natural wildlife.
📍Location: US-19, Homosassa to Port Richey, FL

The Gulf Coast Bike Trail: For a more leisurely ride, the Gulf Coast Bike Trail takes motorcyclists through Florida’s Gulf Coast, with plenty of opportunities for rest stops at beaches, parks, and local eateries.
Route Information: Running from Tarpon Springs south to St. Petersburg, this trail takes you through scenic views and coastal landscapes.
📍Location: Starts in Tarpon Springs, heads south to St. Petersburg, FL

The Withlacoochee State Trail: Known as a rail-trail, this route offers a peaceful ride through forests, wetlands, and rural areas. It’s an ideal route for motorcyclists who enjoy a quieter, more nature-centered journey.
Route Information: Begins in Inverness and runs north through Floral City, passing through Woods and Wilderness areas.
📍Location: Withlacoochee State Trail, Inverness to Dunnellon, FL

Suncoast Parkway (SR 589): A well-maintained toll road that offers an easy and scenic ride through Hernando County, connecting to the Tampa Bay area. Perfect for riders looking for a fast, straightforward route to explore the surrounding region.
Route Information: A direct route from Citrus County to the Tampa Bay area.
📍Location: From Spring Hill to Tampa, FL

SR 44 Scenic Route: This route offers a scenic ride through open fields, lakes, and forestswhile passing through small towns like Inverness and Lecanto. A perfect route for motorcyclists who want to explore the heart of Citrus County.
Route Information: Runs from Inverness to Crystal River, with options to branch off for side trips through the countryside.
📍Location: Starts at Inverness and travels west towards Crystal River, FL

The Ridge Scenic Highway (US 27): A long stretch of highway that runs through Florida’s Ridge Area, offering scenic views of hills, lakes, and historic towns. Ideal for motorcyclists who want to enjoy a more leisurely ride through the inland parts of Florida.
Route Information: The route goes from Leesburg to Sebring, passing through Citrus County.
📍Location: US-27, Leesburg to Sebring, FL

Tampa Bay Scenic Route (SR 60): This route takes motorcyclists along Florida’s west coast, with gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico and plenty of opportunities to stop in beach towns like Clearwater and Dunedin.
Route Information: Starting in Citrus County, it heads south along the coast to St. Petersburg.
📍Location: SR 60 from Crystal River to St. Petersburg, FL

Ocala National Forest Loop: A thrilling ride through the Ocala National Forest, this loop offers riders the chance to experience nature up close, including the chance to spot wildlife like deer and wild boar.
Route Information: The loop winds through Ocala, Silver Springs, and parts of Marion County.
📍Location: Ocala National Forest, starting in Silver Springs, FL

The Nature Coast Loop: A round-trip routetaking motorcyclists through the best of Florida’s Nature Coast, including stops at the manatee sanctuary, pristine springs, and quiet coastal towns.

Route Information: A scenic loop starting and ending in Crystal River, going through Homosassa and Weeki Wachee. 📍Location:Crystal River, FL, to Homosassa and Weeki Wachee, FL

🚴 Bicyclist Routes in and Near Citrus County

  1. Gulf Coast Bike Trail
    • Description: The Gulf Coast Bike Trail is a scenic route that runs along Florida’s west coast, offering a smooth ride with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s perfect for cyclists who love riding near the water and enjoy nature and wildlife.
    • Groups: Open to all cyclists, with popular meetups from local bike shops and cycling groups.
    • Route Information: From Crystal River to Tarpon Springs, passing through Homosassa and Hudson.
    • 📍Location: Gulf Coast, Crystal River to Tarpon Springs, FL
  2. Withlacoochee State Trail
    • Description: This is one of Florida’s longest rail-trails, stretching through Citrus County and into Hernando County. It offers a flat, smooth ridethrough woodlands, wetlands, and small towns, perfect for cyclists of all levels.
    • Groups: Popular with both local cycling clubs and recreational cyclists.
    • Route Information: Starts in Inverness, passing through Floral City and Brooksville.
    • 📍Location: Withlacoochee State Trail, Inverness to Brooksville, FL
    • 🌐 floridastateparks.org
  3. Nature Coast Trail
    • Description: This multi-use trailruns through some of the most scenic spots in Citrus County, offering cyclists access to forests, wildlife areas, and historic sites. It’s a peaceful route perfect for casual rides.
    • Groups: Typically ridden by local cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts.
    • Route Information: Starts in Lecanto, heading north toward Chassahowitzka and Homosassa.
    • 📍Location: Nature Coast Trail, Lecanto to Chassahowitzka, FL
  4. The Citrus Loop
    • Description: The Citrus Loop is a local route that takes cyclists through Citrus County, providing views of the Gulf Coast, natural springs, and coastal towns. It’s a great ride for those looking to enjoy a leisurely day with a mix of nature and history.
    • Groups: Popular among local recreational cyclists and those from nearby bike shops.
    • Route Information: Starts in Crystal River, heading south to Homosassaand back.
    • 📍Location: Crystal River to Homosassa, FL
  5. Suncoast Trail
    • Description: A scenic trail that runs along the Suncoast Parkway, this route is great for cyclists looking to enjoy open spaces and easy access to nature. It’s a relatively flat, paved trail that stretches for miles.
    • Groups: Popular with cycling clubsand recreational cyclists, especially those training for longer rides.
    • Route Information: Starts in Hudson, running south toward Tampa Bay, with many access points along the way.
    • 📍Location: Suncoast Trail, Hudson to Tampa Bay, FL
    • 🌐 floridastateparks.org
  6. Weeki Wachee Springs Scenic Ride
    • Description: This is a fun and scenic ride that takes cyclists through the charming area around Weeki Wachee Springs. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy both nature and a taste of Florida’s local history while cycling.
    • Groups: This route is popular with casual cyclists, including families and groups.
    • Route Information: Starts in Spring Hill, heading toward Weeki Wachee Springs, perfect for a short half-day ride.
    • 📍Location: Weeki Wachee Springs, Spring Hill, FL
    • 🌐 weekiwachee.com
  7. Silver Springs Loop
    • Description: This loop route provides cyclists with scenic views of Silver Springs and the Ocala National Forest. It’s a beautiful and tranquil ride ideal for those looking for a challenge and a connection to Florida’s wild nature.
    • Groups: Popular with long-distance cyclists and those who enjoy longer, more challenging rides.
    • Route Information: Starts in Ocala, heading north to Silver Springs, and loops back through the forest.
    • 📍Location: Silver Springs Loop, Ocala, FL
  8. Pine Island Trail
    • Description: This waterfront trailtakes cyclists along the coast of Pine Island and St. James City, providing stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a peaceful and picturesque route ideal for bike enthusiasts and nature lovers.
    • Groups: Often used by local cycling groups for group rides and leisurely outings.
    • Route Information: Starts at Pine Island, heading towards St. James City.
    • 📍Location: Pine Island, FL
  9. Ocala to Dunnellon Ride
    • Description: This route takes cyclists through the heart of Marion County, with rolling hills, forests, and small towns like Dunnellon and Ocala. It’s a great ride for those seeking a mixture of countryside and scenic views.
    • Groups: Popular with local cycling clubs and weekend riders.
    • Route Information: Starting from Ocala, head west toward Dunnellon, offering various trail and road options.
    • 📍Location: Ocala to Dunnellon, FL
  10. Gulf-to-Lake Trail
    • Description: This trail offers cyclists a direct route from the Gulf Coast to the Withlacoochee State Forest. It’s an excellent way to explore the local communities, lush nature, and scenic views along the way.
    • Groups: Local recreational cyclistsand nature enthusiasts.
    • Route Information: Starts at the Gulf of Mexico and heads east toward Inverness, passing through Homosassa.
    • 📍Location: Gulf-to-Lake Trail, Homosassa to Inverness, FL

🦋 Nature Lovers

Nature lovers can explore Citrus County’s many parks, springs, and nature preserves. The county is rich in wildlife and natural beauty, with an abundance of hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Nature Preserves & Parks:

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge: A sanctuary for manatees, this wildlife refuge also offers opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in its pristine natural environment.
Location: 3260 N Sailboat Ave, Crystal River, FL
Contact: (352) 563-2088
🌐 fws.gov

Three Sisters Springs: Famous for its clear waters and manatee sightings, this springs is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and photography. It’s a designated wildlife refugeand a must-see spot for nature lovers.
Location: 123 NW 3rd St, Crystal River, FL
Contact: (352) 503-0304
🌐 crystalriverpreserve.org

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park: A wildlife park where you can observe native Florida animals, including manatees, bears, and panthers. The park features a stream and boardwalks for nature walks and a ferry ride!
Location: 4150 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL
Contact: (352) 628-5343
🌐 floridastateparks.org

Withlacoochee State Forest: A diverse forestwith hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s also home to the Croom Motorcycle Area for off-roading adventures.
Location: 15003 Broad St, Brooksville, FL
Contact: (352) 754-6777
🌐 floridastateparks.org

Fort Island Gulf Beach: A peaceful beach on the Gulf of Mexico perfect for swimming, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. It’s a popular spot for boating and fishing as well.
Location: 1600 S Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL
Contact: (352) 795-2201

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Known for its famous mermaid shows, this park also offers a beautiful spring and opportunities for kayaking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The area is rich in Florida history and natural beauty.
Location: 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL
Contact: (352) 592-5656
🌐 weekiwachee.com

Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge: A peaceful area of wetlands and mangrove forests perfect for birdwatching, kayaking, and exploring the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast. It’s a prime spot for wildlife photography and fishing.
Location: 1502 SE Kings Bay Dr, Crystal River, FL
Contact: (352) 563-2088
🌐 fws.gov

Silver Springs State Park: Famous for its glass-bottom boat tours, this state park features one of the largest artesian spring systems in the world. You can also enjoy hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Location: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL
Contact: (352) 261-5840
🌐 floridastateparks.org

Sholom Park: A tranquil private park designed for peaceful reflection, walking, and birdwatching. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy nature and find some serenity.
Location: 6700 W Sholom Park Dr, Lecanto, FL
Contact: (352) 527-6543
🌐 sholompark.org

Lecanto Trail: A scenic hiking trail that runs through wooded areas, providing a peaceful escape with wildlife sightings and easy access to nature in Citrus County.
Location: Lecanto, FL
Contact: (352) 527-7540

🦓 Equestrian Adventures

Equestrian Adventures in Ocala: Just 30 minutes away, Ocala is home to the World Equestrian Center, offering top-tier horse shows, events, and equestrian lifestyle amenities.

🚙Car Enthusiasts

Citrus County Mopars
🌐 citruscountymopars.com
Local car club for Mopar enthusiasts.
Corvette Club of Citrus County
🌐 citruscorvettes.com
Enthusiast group for Corvette owners, hosting meetups, drives, and events.
Jeepin’ with Judd (Annual Event)
🌐 jeepinwithjudd.com

crumpshomosassaflorida
crumpshomosassaflorida

🎶 Crump’s Landing

A waterfront tiki bar and restaurant offering a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with live music, fresh seafood, and a pirate-themed play area for kids.

  • 🌴 What to Expect: Relax by the water, enjoy tropical drinks, and catch live bands on weekends. The pirate ship playground makes it a hit for families.
  • 📍 Location: 11210 W Halls River Rd, Homosassa, FL
  • 📞 Contact: (352) 564-0902
  • 🌐 crumpslanding.com

🐒 Florida Cracker Riverside Resort & Monkey Bar

Enjoy a casual riverside meal while watching the famous Monkey Island, home to a troop of playful spider monkeys. This spot offers tasty seafood, tropical drinks, and live music.

  • 🌿 What to Expect: Dine with a waterfront view, sip a cocktail, and watch the monkeys swing and play on their private island.
  • 📍 Location: 5297 S Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL
  • 📞 Contact: (352) 628-2474
  • 🌐 floridacrackerriversideresort.com

🍨 Guyer’s Ice Cream & Chubby Mermaid

A local gem famous for its unique and delicious “Chubby Mermaid” ice cream—a must-try treat that draws visitors from all over.

  • 🍦 What to Expect: Enjoy a scoop of their signature flavor, known for its rich, creamy texture and sweet, fruity swirl.
  • 📍 Location: 41 NW US Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL
  • 📞 Contact: (352) 794-3861
  • 🌐 guyersicecream.com

🐬 Waterfront Social

Dine with a view at this upscale-yet-casual restaurant overlooking Kings Bay. Known for seafood, steaks, and craft cocktails, it’s also a prime spot to catch a glimpse of dolphinsplaying in the water.

  • 🌊 What to Expect: Enjoy a relaxing meal with scenic views and a chance to spot dolphins swimming by.
  • 📍 Location: 1610 SE Paradise Cir, Crystal River, FL
  • 📞 Contact: (352) 794-6044
  • 🌐 waterfrontsocialcr.com

🎸 Black Diamond Ranch’s Friday Night Live Music (Members Only)

For those lucky enough to be members of Black Diamond Ranch, don’t miss their Friday night live music events. Enjoy a relaxed, clubhouse atmosphere with fantastic food, drinks, and live performances.

  • 🎵 What to Expect: A private, exclusive evening with great music and fine diningin a stunning golf course setting.
  • 📍 Location: 3125 W Black Diamond Cir, Lecanto, FL
  • 📞 Contact: (352) 746-3440
  • 🌐 blackdiamondranch.com

🌅 Where to Stay

Before making the move, experience the area firsthand. Stay at Nature Coast Escape—a comfortable and convenient Airbnb in the heart of it all.

  • 🌿 Prime Location: Minutes from kayaking, manatee tours, and local dining.
  • 🔥 Relaxing Amenities: Enjoy outdoor seating, a firepit, and a fully equipped home base.

✅ Book your stay at Nature Coast Escape and start discovering Florida’s Nature Coast! 🌴

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