Hernando County was established in 1843 and named in honor of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto. Now known as Florida's Adventure Coast, our freshwater rivers and springs, state forests and preserves and Gulf waters provide opportunities for many land and water adventures for residents and tourists. Our county is the geographic center of the state and is located on the central-west coast of Florida. Businesses are drawn to this location because of our affordability, accessibility and abundant space to relocate or expand. It's a place where community and commerce thrive. These are just some of the reasons why Hernando is great place to start or grow a business. The City of Brooksville is the county seat and is rich in history and traditions. Weeki Wachee, the only other city in the county, incorporated many decades ago to appear on Florida maps to promote the Weeki Wachee Springs as the “City of Mermaids.” Unincorporated areas include Spring Hill, Ridge Manor, Ridge Manor West, Bayport, Aripeka, Lake Lindsey and Hernando Beach.