If you live in Florida, and are interested in backyard astronomy, you know that finding a location to stargaze in is rather difficult. Because of its dense population, the light from urban areas can still effectively blot out your vision of stars and planets even when you make an effort to seek less populated areas. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t any places in the state to go stargazing.
Read on to learn all about the top stargazing locations in Florida so you can plan your next road trip today!
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park was recognized in 2016 by the International Dark Sky Association as Florida’s first Dark Sky Park. In order to gain access to the park after hours, you’ll need to reserve a campsite online.
You can also reserve an astronomy pad, but you’ll need to arrive before sunset. Once the sun is down, no campfires are allowed and you’ll only be able to use red spectrum lights. This is because if lights are campfires are used, you and the people around you will still have difficulty viewing the stars, planets, and celestial bodies.
St. George Island
St. George Island is a remote, 22-mile barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. This makes it uniquely situated for stargazers. It’s also perfect for vacationers who are looking for a quiet, relaxing oceanside vacation without the usual chaos of tourists.
The minimal light pollution makes it possible for people to see Jupiter and Saturn clearly in the night sky. It’s possible to also see the International Space Station as well as the Milky Way.
Since it’s a Florida State Park, reservations will need to be made in order to stay after hours. You’ll also want to make sure to invest in the best telescopes to fully enjoy your experience.
Chiefland Astronomy Village
Founded by the Chiefland Star Party Group in order to foster a greater appreciation for astrology, this is one of the best locations to travel to near Gainesville for stargazing. For only $45 a year, people of all skill levels can enjoy:
- Permanent observatories on the site
- Imaging workshops
- Networking with fellow astrologers
- Electric and water hookups
This option is the best if you live near Gainesville or find yourself vacationing or staying in the area frequently.
Amara Cay Resort
The Amara Cay Resort is known as a hidden gem to travelers who decide to vacation there. Stargazing in Florida doesn’t mean you need to be camping or road tripping–your vacation can be a luxurious one. Because of its remote location in the Florida Keys, it makes for the perfect place to stargaze on the beach.
Vacationers can also enjoy amenities such as:
- Private beach
- Tiki bar
- Fitness center
- Evening fire pits
- Bicycles
- And more
If you want a comfortable and luxurious vacation that also includes stargazing, we recommend giving the Amara Cay Resort a try.
Pensacola Beach
If you’re looking to stargaze on a piece of history, Pensacola Beach may be your best option. Pensacola actually predates both St. Augustine and Jamestown, VA. When you’re not stargazing, you can explore Fort Pickens or The Island Cross where Christians first held mass.
Stargazing is also free every Friday and Saturday at the Gulfside Pavilion and in the parking lot of Fort Pickens. This is a great option for people who are still deciding whether to pick up the hobby, as volunteers often set up about twenty telescopes on the location that range in strength and size.
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
If you want to enjoy the wildlife of Florida as well as stargaze, you can’t go wrong with a visit to St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. The park is known for its pristine white beaches as well as its diverse wildlife. You can witness beach-nesting birds, three species of sea turtles, and the endangered St. Andrews beach mouse.
You can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and other recreational water activities.
Santa Fe Canoe Outpost
A serene and peaceful experience on the water is one of the top reasons people vacation in Florida, and you can enjoy this at the Santa Fe Canoe Outpost in High Springs, Florida. During the day you can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the waters with excellent service and staff. In the evening, the lack of light pollution makes it possible to stargaze by the water without interruption.
Everglades National Park
Because of its remote location away from towns or cities, Everglades National Park is the perfect place to go stargazing. Reservations aren’t necessary in order to plan your trip. However, you can enjoy the evening even more through Ranger-Led Programs that include activities such as new moon bicycle rides.
The rangers will help heighten your education about the Everglades as well as enhance your experience with guided tours.
The Best Stargazing Locations in Florida
If you live in the state of Florida or you’re vacationing, you’ll find that finding stargazing locations is easier than you may have considered. This is because there are still remote areas in the state that aren’t subject to the light pollution of populated cities. Even better, many of these locations offer varied experiences.
If you want to camp and enjoy the local wildlife, then reserving a spot in one of the state parks is a great option for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more luxurious vacation with modern amenities, you can’t go wrong with a resort experience in the Florida Keys.
Ready for more tips on how to enhance your Florida vacation? Keep reading our blog for more fun guides and tips to get you started!
