Are you interested in learning some fun facts about Florida before your trip? There are so many fun things to learn. From historical Florida facts to geographical facts and even a few cool extras thrown in, we have at least one fact that’s sure to surprise you.

Florida is gorgeous, and it’s a great place to spend a week out on the sand, in the Everglades National park, or to enjoy some fun nightlife in Miami Beach. There are so many places to visit in Florida from the Space Coast or to the Florida Keys. Before you plan your visit to Florida, enjoy these fun facts to learn more about the Sunshine State.

1. Florida has Nothing But Coastline (almost)

Florida is the only state that’s tucked between both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, over two-thirds of the entire state’s population lives in a coastal area.

While Florida isn’t an island, it is a peninsula. This means that it’s surrounded by water on three sides: the Atlantic Ocean to the East, the Gulf of Mexico to the West, and the Straits of Florida to the South.

This is the place to be if you love wide-open water. In fact, Florida has the longest coastline in the contiguous United States (lower 48). Moreover, Alaska possesses the longest coastline in all of the United States. One of our favorite places to visit in Florida is Islamorada Key, which is undoubtedly surrounded by water.

2. The Lowest Highest Natural Point – At One With the Sea

Did you know that Florida is the flattest state in the US? Most of the state is at or around sea level. As a matter of fact, the highest point in Florida is only 345 feet above sea level. What this means is that Florida holds the title for having the lowest highest natural point in America.

If you stand on the state’s high point, Britton Hill, which is at 385 feet above sea level, you still find yourself lower than other states. This unique feature can be found near the Alabama border.

• If you are looking for some amazing activities to do in Florida, check out these:
  • Key West Island Adventure Eco Tour – Kayak and snorkel at the third largest coral reef in the world.
  • Rent a Car and Drive from Miami to Key West – Check CarRentals.com

3. Friendly Sea Cows

Florida is home to the friendly sea cow. Manatees are one of the best parts of Florida. Have you ever seen one of those gentle and chubby underwater friends? If not, consider swimming with manatees in Homosassa State Wildlife Park. These animals are harmless and often friendly towards humans, but it’s essential to remember to respect their space.

Luckily for you, Florida’s Crystal River allows you to get up-close and personal with manatees. In fact, it is the only refuge made specifically for manatee protection!

Bonus fact: While there are no mermaids in the ocean, manatees (and their cousins, dugongs) might have been mistaken for “mermaids” by sailors throughout history due to their gentle nature.

4. Hurricane Season

Florida is widely recognized for its hurricanes, and all state residents know that hurricane season is a reality. If you plan on traveling, ensure that you monitor the weather.

Florida, surrounded by water, is a prime target for summer storms, with an estimated 40% of hurricanes hitting the US impacting the state. While most hurricanes can be manageable, they are becoming increasingly powerful; recent storms such as Irma and Ian have caused significant devastation.

5. Fun In Orlando

Orlando is a prime destination for vacationers across the globe. Notably, Florida is home to two of the biggest theme parks in the world: Universal Studios and Walt Disney World Resort. In fact, Walt Disney World Resort is the most visited theme park globally.

Walt Disney World Resort hosts several theme parks, including Epcot and Magic Kingdom. It’s so expansive, it’s nearly the size of San Francisco! Disney World effectively functions as its own city.

Universal Studios includes the coveted Wizarding World of Harry Potter and has started to rival Disney World as one of the best Florida theme parks. Super-fans will absolutely love exploring all that Florida’s theme parks have to offer.

6. Orlando International Airport is Busy

Orlando International Airport is the busiest airport in Florida and ranks as the 7th busiest airport in the United States. That’s quite an achievement, considering the Orlando airport is not a major hub like JFK, Denver, or Chicago. Travelers flock to Orlando to experience all that this vibrant city has to offer.

7. Traveling on the Water

Did you know that there are parts of Florida where you can travel along extensive waterways? Florida is often referred to as the boating capital of the world.

Similar to picturesque canals in Italy, Cape Coral boasts 400 miles of waterways. Although it might not be as grand as it sounds, it’s still impressive when seen up close.

8. Island Life

While Florida itself is predominantly a mainland peninsula, numerous islands add diversity to the landscape. The Florida Keys, a collection of islands, are popular tourist destinations. From Key Largo to Key West, the Florida Keys consist of 800 keys.

Overall, Florida contains over 4,500 islands that are officially recognized as part of the state. That’s a plethora of tropical islands just waiting to be explored!

9. Join the Party

Surprisingly, Florida has the third-largest population of any state. Almost 1,000 people move to Florida every day! Currently, the state’s population stands at approximately 21.78 million residents. This is remarkable, considering Florida is only 65,758 square miles (170,310 km²) in size. To put this in perspective, Texas is four times larger, at 268,597 mi².

Florida accounts for nearly 6.5% of the entire United States’ population and has the highest percentage of residents over the age of 65 in the country. Many retirees flock to Florida for a reason, and they undoubtedly have the right idea!

10. Beaches, Beaches, and More Beaches

It’s no surprise that Florida boasts a myriad of beautiful beaches. While some are more popular than others, most are excellent spots for a day of sunbathing and relaxation.

South Beach, Miami’s most iconic location, is a hotspot for nightlife and festivities. Conversely, Dry Tortugas offer seclusion, Daytona Beach is famed for its automotive history, and Panama City Beach is notorious for its lively spring break celebrations.

Whether you’re on the beach or venturing into town, the options for fun are endless. After basking in the sun, you can put on your dancing shoes and explore the local nightlife.

Cocoa Beach features both public and private beach areas, perfect for lounging in the sun with a good book in a more tranquil setting.

11. The Space Coast

Florida is famous for its significant contributions to space exploration. The Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral is still active and launches rockets regularly. They host a visitor center allowing everyone to learn about space travel and witness rocket launches.

In July 1969, the legendary Neil Armstrong launched from Kennedy Space Center, making it a crucial fixture in space history.

12. Aviation History

Florida has a rich aviation history, being the site of the first commercial passenger airline flight from St. Petersburg-Tampa on January 1, 1914. Though only 23 minutes long, this flight marked a pivotal moment in aviation history.

13. Only Coral Reefs in America

Excellent news for marine enthusiasts: Florida is home to the only coral barrier reef in the United States! Surprisingly, it’s also the third-largest barrier reef globally, trailing only Australia and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System.

The Florida Keys mentioned earlier are primarily composed of exposed coral, which plays a vital role in sustaining marine ecosystems.

14. Get Out Into Nature

While Florida is synonymous with beaches and theme parks, it’s additionally an outstanding destination for nature lovers. With 11 national parks, Florida is packed with diverse flora and fauna to observe and identify.

Known for its coastline, Florida also boasts 7,700 lakes, making it a surprisingly water-rich state.

15. Reptiles Galore

Of particular interest to wildlife enthusiasts is the coexistence of alligators and crocodiles in Florida. The state is famed for its alligators, which are officially recognized as Florida’s state reptile.

Moreover, the Florida Everglades National Park is the only natural habitat in the world where you can see alligators and crocodiles living alongside one another. If reptiles fascinate you, you will find myriad opportunities to encounter them throughout Florida.

16. Miami Has 2 National Parks

In the greater Miami area, you will find Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park, the latter being a marine park featuring coral reefs and shipwrecks throughout its history. It’s recognized as one of the top scuba diving spots in the United States.

Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. The most immersive way to explore it is by paddling, though there are also hiking and biking trails available. Additionally, high-speed jet boat tours are offered, though a peaceful week-long canoe trip allows for a more intimate wildlife experience.

17. Southernmost Point

Did you know that Key West boasts the southernmost point in the continental United States? While the iconic marker in Key West is recognizable, the official southernmost point is actually found at Fort Zachary State Park, which is 150 meters (500 feet) further south.

Remarkably, the southernmost point of Key West is closer to Cuba than it is to Miami. A yacht trip from Key West puts you within 140 km (90 miles) of Cuba!

18. Florida is home to the Nation’s Oldest City

St. Augustine, Florida, established in 1565 by Don Pedro Menendez de Avile of Spain, is recognized as the oldest city in the United States. This charming locale boasts a rich history and European influences.

19. Golfer’s Paradise

Florida features over 1,000 golf courses, making it a golfer’s haven, especially appealing to retirees. The state is often dubbed the Golf Capital of the World.

Home to the PGA headquarters and the World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum in St. Augustine, Florida offers unparalleled golfing experiences, with Palm Beach County leading the nation in golf courses.

20. Sea Turtles of Florida

Florida is home to five types of sea turtles, with the Loggerhead turtle being the most common. When visiting Florida’s beaches, it’s crucial to respect sea turtle nesting sites and leave them undisturbed.

Additionally, Florida once housed a giant tortoise in one of its parks, showcasing the state’s diverse wildlife.

21. Get That Vitamin C

During your stay in Florida, you’ll soak up the crucial vitamin D from the sun. However, you can also indulge in fresh citrus fruits!

Florida is renowned for producing more citrus fruits than any other state in the U.S., accounting for over 70% of the nation’s oranges.

In fact, it also leads the globe in grapefruit production, making Florida the ideal place to enjoy a fresh glass of orange juice.

Orange Blossom is the State Flower

Due to the citrus industry’s significance to Florida’s economy, it’s no surprise the orange blossom is designated as the state flower. Officially adopted as the state flower in 1909, the Florida orange is the state fruit, and orange juice is the state drink. The fragrant orange blossoms bloom with lovely white flowers during the season.

22. Oldest National Wildlife Refuge is in Florida

Although Yellowstone holds the title of the oldest national park in the United States, Florida is proud to be home to the country’s first wildlife refuge. Established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, the Pelican Island federal bird reservation continues to thrive.

Do You Love These Florida Facts?

This is merely a selection of the fascinating and fun facts about Florida. The Sunshine State offers everything from citrus to alligators, allowing adventure seekers and sunbathers alike to enjoy its beauty. Whether you plan to settle or simply visit, experiencing Florida’s warm sunshine and vibrant attractions is a journey worth taking!