If you’re itching to get out of town and you happen to live near Gainesville, Florida, we have the perfect place for you to take a day trip. Steinhatchee is a coastal town about 90 minutes west of Gainesville, that features a ton of different attractions from low-key food spots to natural gems. Offering a little something for everyone, come see why Steinhatchee in Florida makes for the perfect day trip adventure.

Taking the route from FL-26W and connecting to US-98N starting in Gainesville, day-trippers will end up at the Gulf coastal community of Steinhatchee, Florida.

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This small town makes for an incredible adventure, even if you’re just visiting for one day. To start, Steinhatchee is nicknamed the “Best Kept Secret in Florida” and one visit will show you exactly why.

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The outdoor opportunities are in abundance here, from the fishing adventures off the coast to the scalloping trips.

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Scalloping is huge here in Steinhatchee - guests can even sign up for a charter or tour to harvest scallops when they are in season. Just plan your day trip from June through September if this is the case.

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Visitors can also enjoy miles of country roads by bicycle, or admire the Victorian architecture along the shoreline.

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Head over to the widest waterfall in Florida when you visit Steinhatchee Falls! Not only is this waterfall quite rare for Florida, but it also has a fascinating geological history.

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The tannic rapids have carved so deeply into the limestone shelf that a waterfall was created. While not incredibly deep, these falls are extremely wide and a sight to see.

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The restaurants in Steinhatchee are also worth raving about, starting with the fresh seafood and laidback style that is Kathi’s Krab Shack.

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Another beloved local staple in the food scene is Roy’s Restaurant.

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Roy’s features a bevy of seafood staples, but more notably, the waterfront patio dining option is a huge draw for anyone looking to snag a sunset and a simultaneous cocktail.

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So take a day trip to Steinhatchee, Florida, and see for yourself why this small town is one of the best-kept secrets of the state.

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Click here to find out where Steinhatchee is in Florida.

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Have you ever visited Steinhatchee, Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you have other small towns in Florida that make for the perfect day trip adventure, we’d love to hear about those, too!

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Flickr Florida Sea Grant

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Flickr Richard Elzey

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Facebook Roy’s Restaurant

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Address: Steinhatchee, FL 32359, USA