There’s no better way to experience the beauty and diversity of Florida than from the sky. The Sunshine State offers breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and hidden gems that can only be fully appreciated from above. If you’re a seaplane pilot—or just love the thrill of flying—here are some of my favorite must-see destinations in Florida (so far!), all accessible by seaplane.
1. The Florida Keys
One of my absolute favorite places we’ve been to by seaplane is the Florida Keys. Flying over the sparkling turquoise waters gives you a perspective on our beautiful state that is simply unmatched. From the northernmost point in Key Largo to the southernmost point in Key West, there’s no shortage of stunning views.
We’re excited to take our seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park one day soon! The Dry Tortugas is a remote and stunning national park located about 70 miles west of Key West, accessible by boat or seaplane. Known for its pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, Dry Tortugas is a must-visit for nature lovers, history buffs, and seaplane enthusiasts. This little slice of paradise is also home to one of the most impressive forts in the U.S. history!
2. Cedar Key
If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination, Cedar Key is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Flying into this charming coastal town offers a perfect opportunity to appreciate its rustic beauty and laid-back vibe. Located on the Gulf Coast, Cedar Key is known for its fresh seafood, beautiful sunsets, and serene waters.
We typically fly into the Cedar Key Airport and head to Dock Street to grab lunch at Tipsy Cow or Steamers. We will either call the local taxi service or reserve a golf cart ahead of our trip. Cedar Key is a hidden gem that offers a small-town atmosphere, where you can enjoy local art, dine on seafood right off the boat, or take a leisurely walk around the quaint streets.
3. Tavares: America’s Seaplane City
Photo credit: Travel + Leisure
Located in central Florida, Tavares has earned the title of The Seaplane City, and for good reason! This city is an aviation hub, complete with a seaplane base right on the water. It’s always a fun experience to drive out of the water on the ramp! Tavares offers great restaurants, historical sites and stunning lakeside views. Some of our favorite spots are Puddle Jumpers, The Argonaut, Ironworks Steakhouse and The Tavares Dog House!
Whether you’re coming in for a quick fuel stop or exploring the beautiful area, Tavares is an absolute must-visit for any aviation enthusiast. Plus, their annual Seaplane Fly-In is a popular event that draws pilots from all over the region.
4. St. Augustine
Photo credit: Travel + Leisure
Known as the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine is a fascinating place to visit by seaplane. The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful coastlines are even more impressive from above. As you approach the city, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Castillo de San Marcos, Flagler College, and the scenic waterfront.
Flying into the St. Augustine airport, you have the choice of paved or water runways! After landing, you can explore cobblestone streets, dine at one of many fine restaurants, or visit the city’s many museums and historical sites. St. Augustine combines old-world charm with modern-day beauty, and there’s no better way to experience it than from the air. If you’d rather hang at the airport, check out Hangar One Bistro. The food and atmosphere are awesome!
5. Gulf Coast
We love flying down Florida’s Gulf Coast checking out the beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and rich wildlife. From the emerald-green waters of Destin to the laid-back atmosphere of Sanibel Island, the Gulf Coast boasts countless islands, pristine shores, and serene waterways perfect for exploration by air and sea. Whether you’re flying into Clearwater Beach for a relaxing day or visiting the historic town of Cedar Key, the Gulf Coast provides an unforgettable backdrop for your seaplane adventures.
The region also offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing, from dolphins and manatees to abundant seabirds, making it a top spot for nature lovers. Popular destinations like Sarasota, Tampa, and the Florida Keys are easily accessible by seaplane, allowing pilots to enjoy breathtaking aerial views and quick access to some of Florida’s most iconic destinations.
6. Lake Weir
Lake Weir, located in central Florida, is a serene and beautiful spot perfect for a seaplane adventure. This pristine lake is surrounded by lush nature and offers a peaceful getaway with plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and sunbathing on the many beachy areas along the shore. Lake Weir is an ideal destination for seaplane pilots looking for a relaxing and picturesque landing spot.
The lake is also home to two fantastic waterfront restaurants, offering great food with stunning views. Our favorite spot is Gator Joe’s Beach Bar & Grill, a laid-back restaurant with fresh seafood, indoor and covered dock seating, beach area for boats and seaplanes, and a swimming area.
7. Inverness
Another Central Florida favorite is Inverness which features some gorgeous waterfront parks! We landed on Henderson Lake and beached the plane at Wallace Brooks Park. The parks are located in the downtown district and offer playgrounds, restrooms, walking trails, boardwalks and a fishing pier. There are plenty of dining options within walking distance, but we really enjoyed Stumpknockers.
Inverness is home to the Withlacoochee State Trail, which is one of the longest paved rails-to-trails in Florida and is great for all skill levels. If that’s not your thing, you can also check out the 30,000 sqft indoor antique mall!
8. Bonus: Thomas Landing Seaplane Base
Of course, no list of Florida destinations would be complete without a mention of Thomas Landing Seaplane Base at Ocean Pond—our very own private seaplane base! It’s not just a great spot to land, but also the location of our Seaplane Splash-In on April 26th, 2025. Whether you’re coming in for the event or simply passing through, our lake is a great place to check out! Ocean Pond offers camping, nature trails, fishing and a great public park with picnic tables, grills, clean restrooms and a beach area!
If you’d like to stop by and check out the seaplane base, just give us a shout ahead of time and we’re happy to host you. You might even be able to talk Damon into grilling one of his famous burgers!
Final Thoughts
Exploring Florida by seaplane is truly one of the best ways to take in the state’s natural beauty and unique destinations. From the stunning Keys to the historic streets of St. Augustine, every flight brings a new adventure. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend experiencing some of these amazing spots by seaplane. And if you’re already a seaplane pilot, we’d love to see you at one of our Seaplane Splash-Ins!
We’re always looking for new places to check out. Where’s your favorite place to fly in Florida? Let me know in the comments!
-Cristie
Thomas Landing 
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