13 Places to Avoid in Florida [TOURIST SAFETY GUIDE]

Sunshine State: Florida is a tropical haven that pulls in countless tourists annually with its dazzling beaches, lively nightlife as well as world-class theme park offerings. Like every major tourist destination, knowing the geography is crucial. For a safe and pleasurable vacation, knowing the places to avoid in Florida is crucial.

Avoiding areas with high crime rates is one element of traveling safely. Furthermore, steering clear of overhyped tourist traps which are frequently overcrowded and overpriced should enhance your traveling experience. Whether your worries are safety related, or you merely wish to dodge the standard tourist pitfalls, this list will guide you through the much less appealing areas of the diverse state.

Continue reading to learn much more about the social fabric of Florida. We have you covered – from high-crime cities to areas that do not measure up to the hype. In case you have this knowledge, you can quickly benefit from the very best of Florida and avoid the places that may ruin your vacation.

See Also:

• Luxury Resorts in Florida
• Best hiking trails in Florida

1. Tallahassee

Tallahassee! Ah, indeed! The capital city of Florida, in which Southern charm meets college city energy. But do not be deceived by the vibrant culture as well as historical sites of the city. Tallahassee also features a darker side. The city was ranked among the most dangerous in Florida and has a crime rate that exceeds ninety-two % of all U.S. cities. Additional vigilance is necessary in areas like Perkins, The Gardens at Westlake, Providence, Terrance Heights, and Falls Chase. Thus, while you are soaking up the rich heritage and experiencing the lively student scene, remember to remain alert and conscious of your surroundings.

2. Orlando

Orlando, a city synonymous with family fun and top-notch entertainment, is next on our list. Orlando draws visitors from around the globe due to its famous theme parks and melting pot of overseas cuisines. But it is not simply about fables and roller coasters. The city experiences its fair share of shadows, particularly in the areas west of downtown for example Pine Hills & Malibu Groves. Although the community is alive with excitement, it is also a breeding ground for theme park ticket fraud. Keep your eye on the prize as you go over the excitement of the pulsating city with your senses. Safeguarding your vacation is crucial to an unforgettable experience, all things considered.

3. Panama City

Imagine the setting sun over the Gulf of Mexico, dazzling the white sandy beaches in a golden glow. Panama City is a little City in the Florida panhandle that’s a haven for beach lovers and seafood lovers. Whether you are enjoying the newly caught catch of the day or relaxing in the sun, remember that Panama City also has a less pleasant side. The city’s criminal activity rates, particularly violent crime, surpass the national average. The laid-back lifestyle and idyllic beach scenes are in stark contrast. Bear in mind to be cautious and alert while visiting the local shops, enjoying the beach vistas, or dining in the waterfront eateries. Even in a City so picturesque as Panama City, it’s usually preferable to be safe instead of sorry.

4. Lake City

Let’s travel to Lake City, a City situated in northern Florida and situated midway between Tallahassee and Jacksonville. Its unique position makes it a centralized hub, with highways linking in all directions. You can experience the slower pace of small-town living away from the bustle of the larger cities of Florida. Lake City conceals a shocking truth beneath its charming exterior. The crime rate within the town is among the highest in the state. Even with its lower cost of living when compared with nearly all of the Sunshine State, it’s a location in which you have to keep your guard up. Keep an eye out if you happen to be in Lake City – passing through or staying a while. Continually be conscious of your surroundings and take necessary safety measures. stay in well-lit areas and take your very own safety measures.

5. Riviera Beach, Florida

Riviera Beach is a town situated north of West Palm Beach on a seaside coast. Its sand shores and proximity to the Treasure Coast of Florida might help make it look like a great destination for a beach holiday. Nevertheless, since you are planning your itinerary, it is important to remember that Riviera Beach has some of the highest crime statistics in Florida. In Riviera Beach, individuals are 3 times more likely to be victims of a violent crime when compared with various other areas of the state. So while you are soaking up the sun and surf, be alert. Constantly research the safest places to visit and ensure your belongings are always secure.

6. Cocoa

Cocoa will be the next city on our list, situated along the Atlantic Coast to the north of Melbourne, southwest of Orlando. Cocoa might sound like a charming location due to its proximity to the coastline. The property crime rate in the city is among the highest in both the nation and the state, however. In Cocoa, violent crimes have grown 18 % year over year. Remember to be secure and alert while you are going to local attractions or even taking in the coastal scenery. Even on vacation, it is usually best to be protected and ready.

7. Lauderhill

Let us check out Lauderhill, a town situated in west Broward County, South Florida. Lauderhill might look like an excellent destination to check out due to its diverse culture as well as vibrant population. Nevertheless, Lauderhill also boasts a high crime rate beneath the surface. Here, you’ve more than twice the likelihood of being a target of violent crime when compared with various other areas of Florida and the nation. Remember to be alert while experiencing the South Florida sunshine or going to the local landmarks. Constantly research the safest places to visit and ensure your belongings are always secure.

8. Lake Worth

We next travel to Lake Worth, a city situated on the Atlantic Coast between West Palm Beach & Del Ray Beach. Lake Worth is a town with a distinct character characterized by its homes in the Key West bungalow style. Nevertheless, property and violent crime rates exceed those of the state and the greater Fort Lauderdale / Miami-West Palm Beach metro area. Areas of Lake Worth also have a great deal of homelessness. So, when you are taking pleasure in the coastal views or exploring the local culture, remember to remain vigilant. Continually be conscious of the place you are as well as take the required measures for your safety.

9. Homestead

South of Miami we arrive in Homestead. The city has a rich history and is the entry point to 2 national parks: Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park. But do not let its natural beauty as well as proximity to these parks fool you. Homestead has a crime rate that exceeds the national and state averages. Keep in mind to exercise caution as you plan your outings in the nearby parks or even take in the local culture. Keep your belongings secure as well as stay in well-lit, populated areas. Visit Homestead for its unique history as well as appeal, but remember safety first.

10. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, the world center of racing, is our next stop. Motorsports enthusiasts are going to find this city a haven due to its hard-packed, sandy beaches which welcome motor vehicles. Daytona Beach is a lot more than just speed, though. The crime rates within the city surpass both state as well as national averages, particularly in areas further from the beach and near the riverside. Be alert – whether you are at the beach or racing for the day. Stay in well-lit, bustling areas and keep your belongings close. Daytona Beach is a thrilling location due to its unique blend of sunshine, sea, and speed, but safety should never be ignored.

11. Opa-Locka

Then we arrive in Opa-Llocka, a town situated in Miami-Dede County. The Moorish architecture of Opa Locka is unique and it boasts just about the most comprehensive collections of Moorish Revival architecture in the Western hemisphere. But beneath its architectural marvels, Opa-Locka has a high crime rate, among the highest in the nation. Remember to exercise caution when you admire the distinctive buildings of the city. Keep your belongings secure as well as stay in well-lit, populated areas. Opa-Locka, with its distinctive architecture and charm, may be worth a visit, but safety must always be a high priority.

12. Perry

Our adventure takes us next to Perry, a tiny city in Taylor County in northern Florida. Perry is a forest hub and is often called the “Tree City of the South.” Perry is a small town with a natural beauty and a crime rate that exceeds 86 % of the state’s cities as well as towns. Whether you happen to be here to see the nearby forests or simply take in the small-town atmosphere, remember to be alert. Stay in well-lit, bustling areas and keep your belongings close. Perry, with its unique combination of nature and small-town charm, provides a memorable experience, but safety should not be ignored.

13. Homestead

We conclude our list by going back to Homestead. Natural splendor as well as historical appeal combine to make this city situated between the Biscayne National Park and also the Everglades National Park. Nevertheless, it’s also a city that will require caution. Vigilance is required since Homestead has higher crime rates than both the state and the national averages. While you explore the local attractions, like the Coral Castle or Fruit and Spice Park, keep in mind to remain alert. Keep your belongings secure as well as stay in well-lit, populated areas. Homestead has a unique appeal and is situated near 2 of probably the most beautiful national parks in the country – a place to visit despite the need for extreme caution. Always remember that safety should come first.

Conclusion

although Florida is a beautiful and diverse state with lots to offer, you must be aware of the places to avoid in Florida. Knowing about these places could make a trip safer and more pleasurable – from high-crime areas to overhyped places.

Florida is not an exception to the rule that each city has its positives and negatives. With a little planning and research, you can easily navigate your way through the Sunshine State, taking full advantage of its stunning beaches, bustling cities, and top-notch attractions.

We hope this guidebook has helped to highlight several areas to avoid during your visit. Remain safe, stay informed, and above all, enjoy Florida and all its fantastic experiences.