Are you hoping for more adventures in the sun this year? So much more than theme parks and relaxing beaches, Florida is brimming with opportunities for active fun.
Here are seven reasons to plan your next adventure in the Sunshine State.
Zip Lining
Above an abandoned limestone quarry in Ocala sits The Canyons Zip Lines & Adventure Park. There, you can soar above a glittering spring-led lake with the wind and sun on your face. Glide through the air at up to 45 miles per hour along your choice of nine zip lines. Leave enough time to venture across one of the park’s rope bridges or participate in a historical wine and chocolate tasting tour.
Hiking
Yes, Florida is relatively flat, but it doesn’t lack interesting landscapes for exploring on foot.
In the panhandle, you can enjoy underground hikes at Florida Caverns State Park or trudge along the river at Blackwater River State Forest. Or if you prefer trekking south, check out the backwoods trails at Big Cypress Reserve or the lushly lined tracts at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammocks Botanical State Park. Don’t forget your mosquito repellant, sunscreen and binoculars for Florida’s famous birdwatching.
Horseback Riding
For the ultimate family-friendly adventure, head to Amelia Island. This quiet slice of Florida land has a wide, sandy shoreline and epic Atlantic surf. While there’s plenty to do on the island, from tucking into plates of local shrimp in Fernandina Beach to bicycling along miles of lush greenway, horseback riding beckons to many adventure seekers. It’s the perfect, peaceful way to take in the scenery.
Kiteboarding
If you’re a fan of windsurfing, get ready to amp up your game with Florida kiteboarding. Considered an extreme sport by many, kiteboarding is a great heart-pumping activity to offset your days spent lounging on one of Florida’s long, powdery beaches.
Here are several Florida spots that are perfect for your next kiteboarding trip:
Kayaking
If you’re a fan of water sports, chances are high that you’ll love a relaxing kayaking trip. Florida practically brims with kayaking destinations. For a true adventure, check out one of the bioluminescent tours for night kayaking along Florida’s Space Coast.
Snorkeling
Whether you prefer Florida’s Atlantic or Gulf coast, good snorkeling is never far away. From long, sleek trumpetfish to spectacular angelfish, there’s so much to see under the sea. Popular snorkeling destinations include Dry Tortugas National Park, Key Largo, Ginnie Springs, Devil’s Den (north of Ocala) and Destin.
Paddleboarding
Florida has long been known as a paddleboarder’s paradise, and for good reason. It’s a year-round sport that’s accessible for families, couples and solo water lovers. While the Florida coastline can get rough depending on the day’s surf, the inland lakes are placid — perfect for gliding and paddling — almost any day of the week. For beginner-friendly stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), check out South Walton, Destin and St. Augustine.
Start planning your Florida vacation today.
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