Local Directory — The Villages, Ocala & Central Florida
Restaurants, bars, venues, and more across the region
Alexander Springs
OcalaA family-friendly spring in the Ocala National Forest with a large, gradually sloping pool of crystal-clear 72-degree turquoise water. Great for swimming and snorkeling.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Crystal RiverHome to rescued Florida wildlife including manatees, black bears, and the famous hippo Lu. The underwater Fish Bowl Observatory lets you watch manatees and fish from below the surface.
Juniper Springs
OcalaA hidden gem inside Ocala National Forest, with a stone-lined swimming area fed by a 72-degree spring. The 7-mile Juniper Springs Run canoe trail winds through one of Florida's most scenic subtropical corridors.
Ocala National Forest
OcalaNearly 400,000 acres of sand pine scrub, prairies, and springs make this the southernmost national forest in the continental U.S. Home to world-class swimming holes at Alexander, Juniper, and Salt Springs.
Rainbow Springs State Park
DunnellonFlorida's fourth-largest spring feeds the Rainbow River with 72-degree water so clear you can see your shadow on the sandy bottom. Perfect for tubing, kayaking, and swimming in a pristine natural setting.
Silver Glen Springs
OcalaAn underrated spring in the Ocala National Forest with a large pool that flows into Lake George. Unique mix of freshwater and saltwater species makes snorkeling here exceptional.
Silver Springs State Park
OcalaFlorida's original tourist attraction, featuring the world's largest artesian spring formation. Glass-bottom boat tours reveal an underwater world of fish, turtles, and ancient fossils in impossibly clear water.
Three Sisters Springs
Crystal RiverOne of Florida's most stunning natural springs, where crystal-clear water reveals every detail of the sandy bottom. A must-visit for swimming, snorkeling, and winter manatee encounters.