7 secluded Florida islands... and how to access them

Florida’s 600-plus miles of beaches are enticing enough—but we can’t say the same for the crowds. To take your vacation to the next level, head to one of the state’s remote islands to access off-the-beaten-path beaches. Even if you don’t have a private yacht or seaplane, here’s your guide to accessing the Sunshine State’s most tucked-away enclaves.

Jupiter Island only feels lightyears away. Credit Corn Farmer/Flickr.

Jupiter Island

This barrier island on Florida’s Central Atlantic coast is a favorite nesting place for sea turtles, surfers and celebrities. But you don’t need the bank account of Celine Dion or Tiger Woods (both Jupiter residents) to enjoy it. Spend time on mainland Jupiter, where you can catch a Miami Marlins or St. Louis Cardinals spring training game, grab cocktails in the downtown Abacoa entertainment district or climb the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and enjoy the view. Then take Southeast Bridge Road across the Indian River to Jupiter Island’s unspoiled beaches.

Slow down things down to turtle speed when you visit Dry Tortugas National Park. Credit Orbitz.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Just when you thought the Florida Keys were as far out as you could go, there’s this National Park. From Key West, hop on the Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry for your 70-mile journey to paradise. Explore historic Fort Jefferson, snorkel in the turquoise waters and be on the lookout for more than 300 species of birds. Just be sure to bring your own food and water!

On quiet St. George Island, life’s a beach. Credit Rachel Kramer/Flickr.

St. George Island

The Panhandle fishing town of Apalachicola is laid-back enough, with its plentiful oysters and charming B&B’s. Take your relaxation to the next level by driving across the Big Bend Scenic Byway Coastal Trail to St. George Island, where the main attraction is the Cape St. George Lighthouse, Museum and Gift Shop. After your climb, watch for dolphins on a boat tour, try stand-up paddleboarding or just dig into some seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

This is Palm Island. Any questions? Credit Dan Gray/Flickr.

Palm Island

Need a retreat? From Englewood, let the Palm Island Transit ferry transport you and your car across the water to this slice of Gulf Coast heaven. Or skip the car altogether; on this residential island, the preferred mode of transportation is a golf cart. Rent one from Thoroughbred Golf Carts, and they’ll deliver it to you on the island so you can zip around in style.

ALSO: Beaches be crazy! Join Orbitz Rewards and start getting more out of the Sunshine State!

Launch your dream vacation on Merritt Island. Credit Giuseppe Milo/Flickr.

Merritt Island

Located along the central Atlantic coast, Florida’s largest island is best known as the home of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. But equally impressive is Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a 140,000-acre sanctuary full of deer, manatees, alligators and other out-of-this-world creatures. To access the island, start in Titusville and head east over the Max Brewer Causeway Bridge.

Caladesi Island

If bustling Clearwater Beach isn’t your speed, then head across the St. Joseph Sound to Caladesi Island State Park. A 20-minute ride on the Caladesi Island Ferry will whisk you away to a more low-key beach that offers 3 miles of shelling, snorkeling and sunbathing.

If you’re looking for a mall, then Cedar Key is not the place for you. Credit AlanS1948/Flickr.

Cedar Key

Experience Old Florida in this quiet Gulf Coast town known for its kayaking, fishing and birdwatching. For a little more action, visit during the Cedar Key Seafood Festival in October or the Fine Arts Festival in March. Getting there is easy; from mainland Levy Count, take Florida State Road 24 across the water.