If you’re like me and sometimes crave a break from the hustle and bustle, Eastern Florida has some hidden treasures that offer peace and tranquility away from crowded beaches and tourist spots.
I’ve discovered 25 secluded towns that provide the perfect escape, each with its unique charm and serene landscapes. From riverside escapes to quiet hamlets nestled among forests, these places are ideal for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty.
25. Barberville: A Sleepy Crossroads of Old Florida
Barberville feels like a place suspended in time, a quiet crossroad where the gentle hum of insects and rustling trees takes the place of car horns and crowded sidewalks. With fewer than 200 residents, this tiny community sits quietly beneath wide skies and sprawling oaks, where antique shops and the local heritage museum are the main attractions.
It’s the kind of place where everyday life happens slowly, where neighbors stop to chat under porches and the landscape is framed by forest and farmland rather than city blocks. That untouched rhythm of life is what makes Barberville feel so far removed from the modern world.
Surrounded by miles of pinewoods and open fields, Barberville offers a rare and restful seclusion, where even the breeze seems to whisper a little more softly.
Where is Barberville?
Barberville is tucked away in northern Volusia County, where U.S. Route 17 and State Road 40 cross paths without much fanfare. Though just a short drive from larger towns, its surrounding woodlands and absence of commercial buildup preserve its quietly forgotten feel.
The further you drift from the main roads, the more it begins to feel like Barberville has been keeping its own peaceful secrets for generations.
24. Wabasso: The Quiet Heart of the Lagoon
Wabasso lives between land and water, perched along the Indian River Lagoon where mangroves and salt breezes rule the rhythm of life. It’s a place where fishing docks stretch into still water and the sunsets turn the river gold and pink without a sound.
Small homes, palm-lined drives, and the presence of more pelicans than people keep it wonderfully subdued. There’s no flash or fanfare here—just a gentle quiet that seems to rise from the water itself.
In Wabasso, the stillness settles deep and lingers long after you leave.
Where is Wabasso?
Wabasso is located in Indian River County, north of Vero Beach and east of U.S. Route 1, just before the barrier island bridge. Its riverside location and minimal development help preserve its secluded feel.
Set between water, wetlands, and conservation land, it remains a soft-spoken escape from the nearby bustle.
23. Fort McCoy: A Retreat Woven Into the Forest
Fort McCoy isn’t just near nature—it’s part of it. Surrounded by the Ocala National Forest, this quiet community blends into the pines and palms like it’s always been there, cradled by trails, springs, and a horizon of trees.
Life here is lived slowly and with deep respect for the wild. Homes are scattered along quiet, winding roads, and the forest always feels close enough to touch. There’s no downtown to speak of—just forest paths and the occasional porch light glowing in the dusk.
It’s a hidden enclave for those who want solitude, not scenery.
Where is Fort McCoy?
Fort McCoy is located in northeastern Marion County, along County Road 316 deep within the Ocala National Forest. Though reachable by road, the dense woodlands and surrounding state land make it feel much farther from civilization than it is.
That green buffer of wilderness gives it one of the most naturally secluded settings in Eastern Florida.
22. Kenansville: Prairie Quiet in the Middle of Nowhere
Kenansville rests on wide-open prairie land, where cattle graze under broad skies and the land stretches without interruption for miles. It’s a one-road kind of place, quiet and enduring, with an old post office, a historic inn, and little else to suggest the passing of time.
The stillness here is expansive, broken only by birds, breeze, or the sound of hooves in the distance. Life unfolds slowly, and the people who stay do so because they value the silence that comes with space.
Kenansville isn’t hidden by forest—it’s hidden by distance and simplicity.
Where is Kenansville?
Kenansville is located in southern Osceola County, south of St. Cloud and far from any major highway. It’s accessed primarily by U.S. Route 441, but even that feels like a quiet country road as you approach town.
With no sprawl, no suburb, and no rush, its remoteness is preserved by the very land that surrounds it.
21. Astor: Life Along the River’s Edge
Astor clings gently to the winding edge of the St. Johns River, where the rhythm of the water sets the pace for everything. It’s a place of slow boats and shaded docks, where egrets wander through the marsh grass and time seems to ripple like the current.
The houses here are humble, tucked beneath oaks or raised along the water on stilts, offering glimpses of a quieter Florida that still exists just out of sight. There’s no hurry in Astor, no pressure to be anywhere else but exactly where you are.
That deep connection to water and wilderness makes Astor feel sacred somehow—less like a town and more like a refuge.
Where is Astor?
Astor lies on the western bank of the St. Johns River, nestled in northwestern Volusia County along State Road 40. Though close to the forest’s edge, the river and nearby wetlands create a natural stillness that surrounds the town like a gentle hush.
Its position between water and wilderness gives it the perfect balance of remoteness and rhythm.
20. Orange Springs: A Quiet Echo of Old Florida
Orange Springs feels like a place gently preserved in amber, where the roads curve softly through pine woods and life flows with a calm, steady cadence. Once known for its mineral springs that drew visitors in the 1800s, today it is a tiny residential community surrounded by rivers, forests, and quiet solitude.
Homes are spaced far apart, resting on generous lots beneath a canopy of moss and sky, and the absence of commercial noise creates an environment that feels almost reverent. The spring still bubbles quietly nearby, but it is nature itself—unhurried and untouched—that takes center stage now.
The timeless beauty and deep stillness of Orange Springs make it one of those rare places where silence feels like a gift.
Where is Orange Springs?
You’ll find Orange Springs in northeastern Marion County near the border with Alachua County, tucked between the Ocklawaha River and Lake Ocklawaha. It’s accessible by County Road 315, which winds through forest and farmland with few signs of urban life.
That winding approach and the dense natural surroundings help preserve the town’s sense of detachment from the modern world.
19. Bunnell: Where Fields Stretch to the Horizon
Bunnell is a town defined by space and sky, where vast fields stretch in every direction and the horizon always seems just a little farther away. It’s the county seat of Flagler, yet it carries the soul of a farming town, marked by wide roads, open pastures, and a skyline unbroken by high-rises.
The heart of town is modest and slow-paced, with small businesses, feed stores, and historic buildings lending it an old-Florida charm. Out beyond the center, life unfolds at the edge of cattle pastures and quiet dirt roads.
It’s this openness—both in spirit and geography—that gives Bunnell its uniquely peaceful character.
Where is Bunnell?
Located in western Flagler County, Bunnell sits inland from the more developed coastal areas like Palm Coast and Flagler Beach. Though U.S. Route 1 passes through, the surrounding land is still largely agricultural and undeveloped.
That blend of rural simplicity and distance from beach tourism gives Bunnell its gentle, grounded seclusion.
18. Fellsmere: A Marshland Sanctuary
Fellsmere is a place where the wild still runs free, a town surrounded by swampland, citrus groves, and skies filled with birds. It’s known for its airboats, bass fishing, and the sound of frogs echoing across wide fields under the stars.
With low development and a fierce pride in its agricultural roots, Fellsmere has held onto a way of life that feels both authentic and deeply peaceful. Residents here speak softly, live slowly, and keep close to the land and water that have always defined the town.
In this quiet, marshy corner of Florida, the wilderness is not a backdrop—it’s a companion.
Where is Fellsmere?
Fellsmere lies in the northwestern part of Indian River County, west of Sebastian and not far from the Blue Cypress Conservation Area. It’s reached via State Road 512, which feels more like a country lane than a highway.
The marshes and open land surrounding the town create a natural perimeter of stillness, keeping the hustle of the coast at a quiet distance.
17. Lake Helen: A Spiritual Hideaway
Lake Helen carries a calm that feels intentional, as though the town itself was designed for peace and reflection. Founded in the 1800s by spiritualists, it remains a place of contemplation, where tree-lined streets, historic cottages, and open gardens invite you to breathe a little deeper.
There’s a softness to everything here—the light through the Spanish moss, the quiet lakeside paths, the way time seems to slip gently by. Few cars pass through, and even fewer visitors, which only adds to its meditative atmosphere.
It’s a place where the silence feels sacred, and the past is never too far away.
Where is Lake Helen?
Lake Helen is nestled in southern Volusia County, west of Deltona and just south of Interstate 4. Though it sits near the edge of the metro corridor, you’d never know it once you’re within its shaded streets.
The tall trees, large lots, and deliberate lack of commercial growth give it a serenity few places so close to civilization can match.
16. Oak Hill: A Town Between River and Sky
Oak Hill clings to the water’s edge like a forgotten outpost, where long wooden docks stretch into the Indian River and fishermen rise before dawn to greet the day in silence. It’s a working town, humble and proud, with its roots deep in the soil and its soul tied to the tide.
The homes are modest, many nestled behind curtains of palm and oak, and the air often carries the scent of salt and river reed. The absence of tourist infrastructure here makes the quiet even more profound.
Oak Hill is the kind of place where you can stand still and hear the water speak.
Where is Oak Hill?
Oak Hill is located in southern Volusia County, tucked along the Indian River Lagoon just north of the Brevard County line. U.S. Route 1 passes nearby, but the town itself lies hidden beneath the coastal scrub and old maritime forest.
Surrounded by water and wildlife preserves, Oak Hill remains one of the few coastal towns where nature—and not noise—sets the pace.
15. Grant-Valkaria: Hidden Among the Palms
Grant-Valkaria spreads out like a dream beneath the palms, a place of wide properties, quiet roads, and a deliberate absence of hurry. Homes are tucked into groves or perched near hidden ponds, with only the rustle of leaves and distant bird calls to fill the air.
It’s not a town of sidewalks or strip malls, but of horses, hammocks, and stars so clear you feel as if you could reach them. The land here is still spacious and wild, giving everyone room to breathe and roam.
For those who long to live close to nature, Grant-Valkaria feels like a quiet promise kept.
Where is Grant-Valkaria?
Grant-Valkaria lies in southern Brevard County, between Palm Bay and Micco, with access via U.S. Route 1 and Babcock Street. Though not far from the amenities of the coast, the town’s strict zoning and open landscape keep it far from feeling suburban.
That intentional planning, paired with its lush natural backdrop, gives it a soft, enduring seclusion.
14. Indian Lake Estates: Lakeside Stillness
Indian Lake Estates is the kind of place where the lake is always nearby, and the quiet is so complete it feels almost reverent. The community was once designed as a resort, but today it’s more of a secret—spread out across huge lots and empty roads that seem to stretch endlessly beneath the sky.
There’s a long pier here where you can fish in silence or simply watch the clouds move, and the homes, though scattered, seem to share an understanding that peace is part of the landscape. It’s not isolated in the wilderness, but it feels like it’s waiting for those who seek stillness.
That slow, spacious energy is what gives Indian Lake Estates its grace.
Where is Indian Lake Estates?
Located in eastern Polk County on the western shore of Lake Weohyakapka, Indian Lake Estates is reached via State Road 60. The development is large, but its low population density and rural setting make it feel empty in the best possible way.
The vast lake, open skies, and long, quiet roads create a sense of space and solitude rarely found in Central Florida.
13. Malabar: Quiet Woods by the Lagoon
Malabar is a town defined not by buildings but by trees, trails, and that quiet breath between the rustling of leaves. Its homes are scattered among forested lots, and much of its land is preserved, ensuring the wild edges never get paved over.
Horses graze in pastures just beyond view, and kayaking along the lagoon offers a silent communion with nature. There’s no rush in Malabar—only moments, gently unfolding.
It’s a town for those who find their center in nature, not noise.
Where is Malabar?
Malabar rests in southern Brevard County, nestled along the Indian River Lagoon just below Palm Bay. Though close to city limits, it feels like its own world, surrounded by conservation lands and unspoiled green space.
This buffer of wildness keeps Malabar deeply connected to the land and beautifully removed from the sprawl around it.
12. East Palatka: By the Water, Beyond the Noise
East Palatka hugs the banks of the St. Johns River, mirroring the larger city across the water but walking to its own gentle rhythm. Its roads are lined with old oaks and river breeze, and the feeling is one of quiet reprieve.
Here, mornings begin with fog on the water and end with sunsets painted across the sky. The pace is easy, the days are long, and the hush that hangs in the air makes everything feel softer.
For those who want to be near town but not in it, East Palatka offers the perfect compromise.
Where is East Palatka?
East Palatka is located in Putnam County, just across the St. Johns River from downtown Palatka. U.S. Route 17 runs through it, but the river and wetlands keep the community feeling calm and removed.
Its placement on the quieter side of the water is what gives East Palatka its soothing, tucked-away quality.
11. Glenwood: A Forested Refuge Near the Springs
Glenwood whispers from the edge of DeLeon Springs, where longleaf pines rise tall and sand roads wind through shaded neighborhoods. It’s a tiny, lightly marked place that many overlook, but to those who know it, Glenwood is a haven of soft winds, tall trees, and quiet porches.
The homes here sit on large wooded lots, often hidden behind palms and oaks, with little more than a mailbox to suggest someone’s there. Trails and horse paths cross the area, and the natural world seems to take priority over everything else.
There’s no town center—just serenity woven into the land.
Where is Glenwood?
Glenwood lies in western Volusia County, just northwest of DeLand and adjacent to DeLeon Springs State Park. It’s accessible by Grand Avenue, a two-lane road flanked by canopy trees and old fences.
Its surrounding forests and lack of commercial development make Glenwood feel more like a woodland retreat than a formal town.
10. Bostwick: A Hidden Retreat in Putnam County
Bostwick, with a population of just over 1,000, is a quiet community that feels like a step back in time.
I love visiting the local farms and citrus groves, and there’s nothing quite like the annual Bostwick Blueberry Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural roots. The main industries here are farming and timber, contributing to its rural charm.
What makes Bostwick so secluded is its abundant natural barriers; it’s surrounded by dense forests and the winding St. Johns River, providing a serene setting far removed from urban noise.
Where is Bostwick?
Bostwick is tucked away in Putnam County, northeast of Palatka. Its location off the beaten path means there are no major highways running through it, enhancing its sense of isolation.
To get there, I usually take State Road 17 and enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside. The town’s hidden nature makes it a perfect retreat for those wanting to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in a peaceful environment.
9. Seville: A Peaceful Hamlet Amidst Nature
Seville is a small community with around 600 residents, and it’s one of those places where everyone seems to know each other. I often spend my time here exploring Lake George and the surrounding forests, which offer excellent fishing and hiking opportunities.
Agriculture plays a significant role in Seville’s economy, with local farms dotting the landscape. Its minimal development and spacious properties give it a secluded atmosphere that I find incredibly relaxing.
Where is Seville?
Nestled in northern Volusia County, Seville sits near the western shore of Lake George. The town’s remote location, surrounded by vast natural areas and few neighboring communities, enhances its peaceful vibe.
I usually access Seville via U.S. Route 17, but since it’s off the main tourist routes, it remains a quiet haven. The journey there is part of the charm, taking me through some of Florida’s most picturesque rural scenery.
8. Hastings: Historic Farmlands in St. Johns County
With a population of about 600, Hastings is known as the “Potato Capital of Florida,” and I adore its rich agricultural heritage. The expansive farmlands provide a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely drive or bike ride.
There’s also a charming historic district that reflects the town’s early 20th-century roots. The main industries are farming and packing, and the vast acreage of farmland contributes to its low population density and secluded feel.
Where is Hastings?
Located in St. Johns County, southwest of St. Augustine, Hastings is nestled between the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean. Its position away from major cities and tourist destinations keeps it quiet and serene.
I typically reach Hastings via State Road 207, enjoying the peaceful rural landscapes along the way. The town’s isolation makes it an ideal spot for those looking to experience Florida’s agricultural heartland without the crowds.
7. Pierson: The Fern Capital’s Quiet Corners
Pierson, home to around 1,700 people, proudly holds the title of “Fern Capital of the World.” I find the endless fields of ferns to be a unique and calming sight.
Aside from fern farming, the area offers outdoor activities like boating on Lake George and hiking in the Ocala National Forest. The large acreages and natural surroundings provide plenty of privacy, making Pierson’s less-traveled areas particularly secluded.
Where is Pierson?
Situated in northwest Volusia County, Pierson is conveniently close yet worlds away from the busier parts of Eastern Florida. I usually get there via U.S. Route 17, but the absence of major highways keeps traffic minimal.
The town’s proximity to vast natural areas contributes to its seclusion, offering a peaceful retreat among Florida’s lush landscapes.
6. Micco: A Riverside Escape
Micco is a small community with a population of about 9,000, spread out over a large area along the Indian River. I enjoy fishing and kayaking here, taking advantage of the river’s serene waters.
The lack of commercial development means most properties are spacious and surrounded by nature. The town’s undeveloped lands and tranquil setting far from urban centers make Micco a perfect riverside escape.
Where is Micco?
Located in southern Brevard County, Micco sits along the western bank of the Indian River Lagoon. It’s tucked away from the main thoroughfares, which adds to its secluded charm.
I generally access Micco via U.S. Route 1, enjoying views of the river along the way. The town’s hidden location provides a peaceful haven for those looking to relax by the water without the crowds.
5. Mims: Rural Charm in Northern Brevard County
Mims, with a population of around 7,000, offers a blend of rural living and natural beauty. I’ve spent time exploring the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge nearby, which is a haven for birdwatchers like me.
Agriculture and small businesses are the main industries, contributing to its quiet atmosphere. The large lots and natural barriers, such as forests and wetlands, provide residents with plenty of privacy and a secluded lifestyle.
Where is Mims?
Mims is situated just north of Titusville in northern Brevard County. Its location away from the busier space industry areas keeps it peaceful. I usually reach Mims via U.S. Route 1 or Interstate 95, but the town itself remains free from heavy traffic.
The surrounding natural areas enhance its seclusion, making it an ideal spot for those seeking rural charm near Eastern Florida’s coast.
4. Scottsmoor: Serenity Near the Space Coast
Scottsmoor is a small community with about 300 residents, offering vast open spaces and beautiful landscapes. I appreciate the quiet parks and nature trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The town lacks commercial zones, which helps maintain its serene environment. The low housing density and minimal development provide a secluded lifestyle away from the more touristy areas of the Space Coast.
Where is Scottsmoor?
Located at the northern tip of Brevard County, Scottsmoor is just south of the Volusia County line. It’s accessible via U.S. Route 1, but its distance from major cities keeps it tranquil.
The absence of major highways and its proximity to natural reserves enhance its sense of isolation. For me, getting there is a pleasant drive through some of Florida’s untouched landscapes.
3. Geneva: Nature’s Haven in Seminole County
Geneva, with a population of around 2,500, is a haven for nature lovers like myself. Surrounded by forests and rivers, it’s a fantastic place for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching.
The community values preserving its natural surroundings, resulting in undeveloped lands and spacious properties. The lack of commercial zones and the emphasis on nature contribute to Geneva’s tranquil and secluded atmosphere.
Where is Geneva?
Geneva is nestled in Seminole County, northeast of Orlando. It’s off the main tourist paths, which helps maintain its peaceful setting. I usually take State Road 46 to get there, enjoying the lush scenery along the way.
The town’s position among forests and near the St. Johns River adds to its seclusion, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking solace in nature.
2. Christmas: A Quiet Retreat in Orange County
Christmas is a small community of about 1,200 people, and yes, it’s always Christmas here! I enjoy visiting the Fort Christmas Historical Park and exploring the rural landscapes.
The area offers large lot sizes and natural surroundings, with many residents embracing a quiet, country lifestyle. Its distance from city life and the surrounding wetlands and forests provide privacy and a serene atmosphere.
Where is Christmas?
Located east of Orlando in Orange County, Christmas sits along State Road 50. Despite its proximity to the city, it feels a world away due to its rural setting.
I find the drive along State Road 50 calming, transitioning from urban to countryside landscapes. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by the nearby Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area, offering additional natural barriers from the urban sprawl.
1. Osteen: The Hidden Gem of Volusia County
Osteen is an unincorporated community with a population of around 3,000, and it’s one of my favorite secluded spots. The spacious lands and low population density make it feel incredibly peaceful.
I often visit the Hickory Bluff Preserve for hiking and horseback riding. Agriculture and small local businesses are the main industries, contributing to its rural charm. What sets Osteen apart is its distance from urban centers and the abundance of natural beauty surrounding it.
Where is Osteen?
Situated in southwest Volusia County, Osteen lies between Sanford and Deltona. It’s accessible via State Road 415, but there are no major highways cutting through it.
The town’s location amidst lakes, forests, and preserves adds to its secluded feel. For me, Osteen represents the perfect getaway, offering tranquility without being too far from the conveniences of larger towns.
