Springs and coast day trips for couples
Key facts
| Wakulla Springs State Park | Open 8am to sundown, every day |
|---|---|
| Wakulla river boat tour | 45 to 55 minutes, $8 for adults |
| St. Marks Unit | 6am to sunset, entry fee required |
| Monarch butterflies at St. Marks | Peak in September and October |
Some of the best dates near Tallahassee are a short drive away. The springs and the Gulf coast are wild and quiet, and you can do both in a day. Pack water and bug spray.
A swim and a boat at Wakulla Springs
Wakulla Springs State Park is open from 8am until sundown every day of the year. The swimming area opens at 9am, with a two-story tower and sunbathing platforms. Book the river boat by phone and finish with a meal at the historic lodge.
Source: Friends of Wakulla Springs State Park: Visit us, checked 9 November 2026
The St. Marks Lighthouse
In the St. Marks Unit of the refuge, the road ends at the St. Marks Lighthouse, at 1255 Lighthouse Road. The unit is open 6am to sunset and charges an entry fee. Fall and winter bring ducks to Lighthouse Pond, and monarchs gather here in September and October on their way to Mexico.
Source: Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail: St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, checked 9 November 2026
Free trails at Otter Lake
The Otter Lake Recreation Area near Panacea is part of the same refuge and is free to enter, sunrise to sunset. Pick the 5-mile Piney Ridge loop or the 9-mile Otter Lake loop. It is a good active date for people who like long walks.
Source: Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail: St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, checked 9 November 2026
Questions
What day trips make good dates from Tallahassee?
Wakulla Springs for the river boat and a swim, and St. Marks for the lighthouse, birds and fall monarchs. You can do both in one day.
Can you swim at Wakulla Springs?
Yes, in the swimming area, which opens at 9am. Only swim where it is allowed, and check conditions with the park.
When is the best time to visit St. Marks?
September and October for monarch butterflies, and fall and winter for ducks. Spring brings migrating songbirds and shorebirds.
Read next
Our sister site Smooch covers dating across the US. WhichDating, our sister review site, has a guide to first date tips.