Long, windy tree-lined roads reminiscent of New England lead the way to Homosassa, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the more well-known attractions of Orlando. Homosassa is part of Florida's Nature Coast, nestled between US Highway 19 and the Gulf of Mexico.
Charming Bed and Breakfast Accomodations
Charming bed and breakfasts, like The Blue Moon (10137 W. Fishbowl Drive, 352-621-1960), recognized as one of Florida's Most Romantic Getaways by Florida International Magazine, make Homosassa a great weekend escape. A restful sleep awaits you in one of five uniquely decorated rooms (French Room, Spanish Room, Retro Room, Mediterranean Room and North Woods Room) with private baths. Awaken each morning to find a gourmet breakfast being prepared in the small kitchenette hidden away from the main lodge area. Pomegranate juice is served in champagne glasses. A fresh fruit salad stands next to it in a goblet. Culinary delights such as orange French toast and sausage are served in the dining room with fine linens. A pleasantly full belly makes one ready and eager for the day ahead. Jim and Laura Wanzel, the innkeepers, are full of suggestions for daytrips and dining.
Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park
Homosassa was once the home of a 5,100 acre plantation where approximately 1000 slaves raised sugar cane, cotton and citrus. You can visit the remnants of the steam-driven mill at Yulee Sugar Mill Ruins Historic State Park (3400 N. Museum Pointe, no entrance fee) to learn about the sugar making process as well as view what's left of a limestone masonry chimney, iron gears and a cane press. Nearby is the Olde Mill House Gallery and Printing Museum (10466 W. Yulee Drive, 352-628-9411) which features an operating print shop from the 1800's. These two parks are easily enjoyed in an hour or two.
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
This small town (population 2,294 and only covers 5.2 square miles) is also home to Florida's only state wildlife park, the home of many free roaming manatees and a movie star hippo. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park (4150 S. Suncoast Blvd. 352-628-5343, adults $9.00, children 3-12 $5.00) twice awarded the National Parks and Recreation Association's Gold Medal, features scenic walkways through the park to view bobcats, foxes, Key deer, and cougar in their habitats. An abundance of birds, including many endangered species like the Whooping Crane and Bald Eagle, also live within the park. One of the highlights is to go into the floating underwater observatory at the head of the spring to have a clear view of manatees eating lettuce. Descending further, a 360-degree underwater view beckons. Here is where schools of snook hover under the dock. Redfish linger beneath the plentiful mullet. Tarpon, jack and grouper are also known to freely venture into the area. Park rangers provide informational wildlife encounters throughout the day. Be sure to check the daily schedule so as not to miss feeding time!
Riverside Crabhouse Restaurant and Monkey Island
A terrific way to wind down the day is to watch the sun set over Monkey Island while dining at the Riverside Crabhouse Restaurant (5297 S. Cherokee Way, 352-628-2474). The restaurant features appetizers, such as smoked fish dip served with crackers ($5.95) and fried gator tail ($8.95), but specializes in enormous seafood platters comprised of a selection of fresh fish, shrimp, scallops and oysters ($19.95). From the air-conditioned comfort of the restaurant, while waiting for the meal, the antics of several mischievouse monkeys that inhabit the small island build just for them can be observed. Monkey Island, once a pile of rocks, is now home to three spider monkeys and one squirrel monkey that are fed twice daily under the care of the Riverside Resort. The monkeys never attempt escape because they don't like the water. Instead, their playfulness delights Riverside guests.
Homosassa will captivate travelers with its natural beauty. It is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway.
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