South of Tampa, in Manatee County is one of the loveliest parks you'll find in Florida. Hike the nature trails with great coastal views, kayak the mangrove tunnels or check out the birds and wildlife

Stump Pass State Beach Park, south of Sarasota on Florida's west coast, is a quaint and natural setting for relaxing, swimming or picnicking and a "sweet" find for the authentic Florida traveler

It's the laid-back paradise Jimmy Buffett made famous when he met the perfect cheeseburger, a piano and a cold beer. Cabbage Key, the legendary island hideaway is for those who seek "Old Florida" island 

I enjoy finding islands that are uninhabited, undeveloped and natural. These days, it's not easy to find a real barrier island that is unpopulated. Prepare yourself for Shell Key.  It's truly the “real deal” with a world-class beach

What could be more fun than swimming in a cool, refreshing, pristine Florida river? Or jumping into the world's deepest freshwater spring? How about a jungle cruise reminiscent of a Tarzan movie? Well, pack up the family 

It's not well known, but the Wacissa River is one of Florida's most spectacular.  Southeast of Tallahassee, this is one for your Authentic Florida Bucket List. Southeast of Tallahassee in Jefferson County

Feel like chilling out in the tropics? You don’t have to travel far. In fact, you can drive! No need to book cruise ships or airlines. An escape to the Florida Keys may be just your ticket. The turquoise waters of Florida Bay meet the azure Atlantic Ocean along a ribbon of islands 

I’ve set down my beach chair, my feet are well ensconced in the sand, the sunscreen has been dutifully applied and I am focused on the sparkling blue water as the warm Florida sunshine pours over me. In a state

Authentic Florida guest contributor, Joyce Sparrow shares her story on Fort De Soto Park. South of Tampa, on Tierra Verde in Pinellas County, Ft. De Soto Park is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. There's plenty of fun for the