Explore the Sapphire Waters of Wakulla Springs, Florida
Grab your swimsuit.
Thirty-two miles of submerged caves snake beneath the earth around Wakulla Springs, Florida. Those caves, carved through limestone over millions of years, supply beautiful Wakulla Springs—the world's largest and deepest freshwater spring—with a seemingly endless supply of crystal-clear, 68-degree water.
Filling at a rate of 250 million gallons of water per day, Wakulla Springs' oasis of tranquility has long been a relaxing spot to escape from the cares of the world, if only for a night or two.
So pack your bags, book your room, and make your way to this intriguing destination just twenty minutes from Tallahassee.
When to Go
The best time to visit Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is, well, anytime, really. In the winter, you'll find daily temperatures ranging from the low 40s to the mid-60s, which feels tropical if you're escaping from a colder climate.
In the summer, the temperature gauge shifts slightly higher with ranges in the low 70s to the low 90s. You can find rainy days any time of year in Florida, but you're most likely to feel the pitter-patter of raindrops in March, June, July, and August. The driest months are April, October, and November.
As long as there isn't a lightning storm, any day is a good day to jump in Wakulla Springs' 68-degree water.
Where to Stay
Make yourself at home in the beautiful Lodge at Wakulla Springs. Called "North Florida's castle," the Lodge was built in 1937 by financier Edward Ball, and it sits in the heart of what is now Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. The Lodge is surrounded by 6,000 acres of cypress swamp and forest and is perched on the edge of the crystal-clear Wakulla Springs.
In addition to 27 comfortable and historic guest rooms and suites, The Lodge has an elegant, full-service restaurant that serves three meals daily. Or, you can go back in time with a "lunch counter" meal at the Soda Fountain, which features a 70-foot marble counter, and serves classic fare like root beer floats, ginger yips, hot dogs, sandwiches, and chips.
What to Do
Swimming and snorkeling in the springs are easily the most popular activities at Wakulla Springs, but other adventures await. Hop on a "Jungle Cruise" from The Lodge at Wakulla Springs for a narrated nature tour up the Wakulla River. Keep your eyes open for manatees, alligators, deer, and other wildlife. Birders will want to watch for one of the 182 bird species that have been found within the state park.
Nine miles of hiking trails weave through the park, and bikes are welcome on the paved park road.
Outside of Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, a short drive brings you to St. Marks Lighthouse, one of the most picturesque spots on Florida's Gulf Coast. Hikers can hop on a portion of the 1,400-mile Florida Trail, which tracks for almost 100 miles through Wakulla County.
Kayaking and canoeing opportunities abound on flat water, flowing rivers, and in the Gulf of Mexico. Elsewhere in Wakulla County, Emerald Sink, Clear Cut Sink, Cherokee Sink, and Indian Springs are popular spots for scuba diving and cave diving.
Ready to check out the beauty of Wakulla Springs? Book a stay at The Lodge at Wakulla Springs
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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