Despite the scorching heat and bustling crowds, Florida offers a plethora of thrilling activities and enchanting destinations that are best enjoyed during the hottest months of the year.
Whether you call Florida home or are just passing through, let this be your guide to over 25 fun-filled experiences and breathtaking locations that are sure to make this a summer to remember.
1. Dive into Aquatic Thrills: Snorkel with manatees, explore vibrant coral reefs, or take a thrilling jet ski ride along the coast. There is much fun to be had in Florida’s many waterways. I detailed a manatee tour I took in this post if you’re looking too swim with some gentle giants.
2. Unwind on World-Famous Beaches: With 1,350 miles of coastline, Florida provides endless options for beachgoers seeking fun in the sun. So pack your sunscreen and spend a day at the beach and enjoy what Florida is most famous for.
3. Embark on a Kayaking Adventure: Within Florida's diverse landscapes, a world of options awaits.
Do you wish to paddle through enchanting mangrove tunnels, immerse yourself in the crystalline depths of natural freshwater springs, or seek solace in serene coastal estuaries?
The choice is yours, and each option promises a tranquil escape from the summer's heat.
4. Explore Theme Parks: If you’re feeling up to braving the crowds, Florida is home to over 30 thrilling theme parks, providing unparalleled adventures for all.
From the magical wonders of Walt Disney World to the adrenaline-pumping rides at Universal Orlando Resort, there's an experience waiting for everyone.
5. Take a Wildlife Safari: Embark on a unique safari drive and familiarize yourself with the incredible wildlife in a natural habitat. We love Wild Florida and detailed about the park here in this post.
6. Discover Florida's Springs: Swim in the cystal clear and refreshing waters of Florida’s natural springs. My personal favorite playground can be hard to get into in the summer season. I recommend my detailed spring guide and scoping out some lesser known springs.
7. Go Fishing: Cast your line in Florida's abundant fishing spots, whether it's deep-sea fishing, freshwater angling, or pier fishing.
8. Seek Thrills at Water Parks: Cool off and make a splash at water parks like Blizzard Beach, Adventure Island, or Volcano Bay.
9. Enjoy Water Sports: Try your hand at surfing, paddleboarding, or parasailing for an adrenaline-pumping experience on the water.
10. Visit Museums or art galleries: If the brutal heat or afternoon summer storms are keeping you indoors, this is the perfect time to explore history, science, and art at renowned museums like the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex or the Salvador Dali Museum. Florida is littered with an array of remarkable attractions and an abundance of roadside ‘museums’ filled with treasures.
11. Indulge in Waterfront Dining: Enjoy delicious seafood or tropical cocktails at waterfront restaurants with stunning ocean or river views. So fancy!
12. Witness Bioluminescent Magic: Take a night kayaking tour in the Indian River Lagoon or Mosquito Lagoon to witness the captivating glow of bioluminescent organisms. I wrote a bit about my experience with bio glow here in this post.
13. Embark on an Airboat Eco Tour: Glide through marshes and witness Florida's unique ecosystem while spotting wildlife like birds, gators, turtles, and more. If you’re not quite south enough to make it into the everglades, check out my post covering Wild Florida located in central Florida.
14. Attend Festivals and Events: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Florida’s many festivals such as the Florida State Fair, Strawberry Festival, or the Key West Lobster Fest.
15. Discover Artistic Enclaves: Explore the vibrant art scenes of Miami's Wynwood Walls, St. Petersburg's Art District, or Sarasota's Ringling Museum of Art.
16. Go on a Biking Adventure: Pedal through scenic trails like the Legacy Trail in Sarasota or the Tamiami Trail in the Everglades for a picturesque journey.
17. Cruise Along Scenic Waterways: Embark on a boat tour through the Intracoastal Waterway, St. Johns River, or the Florida Keys, enjoying breathtaking views. I personally love the glass bottom boat tours at Silver Springs.
18. Attend a Baseball Game: Cheer for the Miami Marlins or the Tampa Bay Rays and experience the excitement of America's favorite pastime.
19. Visit Botanical Gardens: Stroll through the stunning landscapes of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, or Bok Tower Gardens.
20. Explore Historic St. Augustine: Wander the charming streets of the nation's oldest city, visiting historic sites and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
21. Swim with dolphins: We had a blast during our dolphin encounter at Marineland, which I share more about in this post. If you ask the kids, it’s tied with snowtubing in North Carolina as their favorite adventure yet, and we have been on many! Nothing screams summer vacation in Florida quite like swimming with a dolphin!
22.Snorkel, scuba, snuba or free dive:I don’t know about you, but due to the heat, I don’t want to be very far away from water in the summer.
Plus, there is so much to be seen submerged under the surface of Florida’s springs and oceans that you do not want to miss! From the only reefs in the continental US to limestone caves to statues of Jesus. Yes, really!
If you're seeking a refreshing adventure, grab your mask and embark on an exploration of any these remarkable destinations.
23. Go Horseback Riding: Experience the magic of horseback riding along the sandy shores of Amelia Island or Cape San Blas.
24. Witness Sea Turtle Nesting: Join a guided tour to witness the awe-inspiring sight of sea turtles nesting and hatching along Florida's coast.
25. Enjoy Live Music: Attend outdoor concerts, jazz festivals, or beachfront music events to soak in the vibrant music scene of Florida's summer nights.
26. Savor the Season: Stop by a Local Fruit Stand: Experience the vibrant taste of Florida by visiting a local tropical fruit stand.
Allow me to introduce you to a remarkable fruit stand that deserves a spot on your summer bucket list: Los Pinarenos Fruit Stand. Located at 1334 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Havana.
They have a variety of fresh tropical fruit and, if you ask nicely, they will even help you open your coconuts to drink!
As we reach the end of our bucket list journey through the best of Florida's summer activities, one thing is clear: this state is a haven for unforgettable experiences.
Whether you're soaring through the sky on exhilarating rides, encountering diverse wildlife in the untamed nature, or immersing yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene, Florida has it all.
So grab your summer essentials, and see how many of these items you can check off this year.