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Combine plenty of great weather with world-class nature and you’ve got a recipe for a gorgeous night under the stars in Florida. Want to enjoy the Sunshine State’s pristine natural beauty without all the tourists? You can have a truly unique experience stargazing through the night at one of these alluring locations. Visit one of these breathtaking spots in Florida that are perfect for appreciating the astronomical wonders of the constellation.
Pensacola Beach
Right from the beaches of Pensacola and with the help of the Escambia Amateur Astronomers Association it is possible to spot Jupiter, Milky Way, and other mystical galaxies. Free telescopes are offered at exciting events held throughout the summer for your stargazing pleasure.
St. George Island
St. George Island is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Secluded from the big city lights you will find 180 degrees of stunning views made for starry nights. Due to its remoteness, St. George Island has less light pollution and provides dark skies ideal for night gazing.
Chiefland Astronomy Village
Known as the most amateur-friendly location for astronomy lovers, Chiefland Astronomy Village are the experts on night gazing. Ideal for those who want to be a part of a community, this area in Chiefland, Florida is for those who are truly passionate about gazing into the starry skies.
Chiefland Astronomy Village, Northwest 52 Court, Chiefland, FL, USA
Big Pine Key
100 miles from Miami is Big Pine Key, a scenic island in Florida’s lower Keys. With clear skies and low pollution, it’s one of the only places in the United States where you can see the Southern Cross constellation.
Cedar Key
Known for having some of the darkest skies in Florida, take advantage of Cedar Key’s quaint and isolated location with an evening under the stars. Far from traffic, noise, and bright lights, this gem of the Nature Coast is a nature lover’s dream and one of the best places to visit if you want to avoid the tourist crowds.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Fully removed from the pollution that other big cities in Florida are plagued with, Kissimmee Prairie is one of the best spots in the state for stargazing. Recognized as Florida’s first Dark Sky Park, it’s possible to see both Jupiter and Saturn from here.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, NW 192nd Ave, Okeechobee, FL, USA— +1 863-462-5360
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Powdery white sands and peaceful surroundings make St. Joseph Peninsula State Park not only a great place to visit during the day, but an excellent spot to set up a telescope and spend an evening stargazing. While it suffered significant hurricane damage, it is now open and ready for visitors.
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, Cape San Blas Rd, Port St. Joe, FL, USA— +1 850-227-1327
Sebastian Inlet
Star-gazers love to appreciate the skies from Sebastian Inlet, as local Astronomy Clubs often hold “star parties” in the area where astronomy fans gather to share their passion for the view above with each other.
Santa Fe River
Take advantage of the full moon with the Santa Fe Canoe Outpost, which offers “full moon paddles” on the Santa Fe River. With a skilled guide, experience a unique view of nocturnal life as you float under the sparkling stars.
Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park is an excellent spot to experience the wonderfully dark nights in Florida. Due to its remote location, the area gives night gazers a chance to view the magnificent skies of Florida and the Milky Way.
Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
Head to Suwannee River Wilderness Trail for a chance to appreciate Florida’s natural light show. With a generous amount of dark nights, Adams Tract River Camp is said to be the best spot on the river to see the stars.
Suwannee River Wilderness State Trail, Northwest County Road 292, Mayo, FL, USA— +1 800-868-9914
