Dive Right In: The Stunning Natural Springs of North Florida
Did you know you can literally Dive into Spring(s) when you visit Gainesville? North Florida is home to the best natural freshwater springs. Natural springs are sparkling pools of beauty. With their crystal clear cool waters and easy-going flow, you may never want to leave. Plan now for a refreshing escape. Here are the top five natural springs you don't want to miss.
Ginnie Springs
Ginnie Springs is located on the Santa Fe River, only 45 minutes away from Hotel ELEO. The water is a pristine 72 degrees and filled with vibrant fish. It also offers river tubing, snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming. As if it can't get any better, the spring also has underwater caves.
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Gilchrist Blue Springs
Like Ginnie Springs, Gilchrist Blue Springs pours its water into the Santa Fe River. This beautiful state park produces about 44 million gallons of crystal-clear water every day. Swimming is encouraged, and you can find even more springs along nearby nature trails. It is located about 40 minutes north of the hotel.
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs
Divers from around the world come to explore the 33,000 feet of underwater passages at Peacock Springs. It boasts one of the longest aquatic cave systems in the entire continental U.S. Positioned about an hour and a half from Hotel ELEO, you can swim, dive (if certified) and use the picnic areas equipped with grills.
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Photo: @freediverdave proposes to @tessa.skiles at West Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
Rainbow Springs
The water at Rainbow Springs is described as "sapphire-blue" and about 50 minutes away from Hotel ELEO! Former home to a mining operation and privately owned tourist destination, Rainbow Springs offers swimming, human-made waterfalls, gardens and sloping hills.
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Silver Springs
Silver Springs is a group of artesian springs and a historic tourist attraction that is now part of Silver Springs State Park. In addition to charming gardens, you can enjoy kayaking, trail hiking and camping — all within a 45-minute drive.
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Enjoy your stay at Hotel ELEO at the University of Florida and enjoy exploring some of Florida's most stunning natural springs.
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Blog by Olivia Dingman
