Florida, the Sunshine State, beckons tourists who are ready to enjoy perpetual warmth, beautiful beaches, and thrilling activities all year long. And even though Orlando’s theme parks are known for their magic, heading out of the gates uncovers the hidden riches of a multitude of activities with different flavors for all kinds of tastes and types of travelers.
- Siesta Key: Consistently ranked among the finest beaches in the world, Siesta Key prides itself on soft, white sand and reassuring turquoise waters. Relax on the beach, check out the local shops and cafes, or dare yourself to do water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Clearwater Beach: Home to the highly acclaimed bottlenose dolphins, Clearwater Beach has clean sands, superb searches for shells, and thrilling dolphin-watching tours. Experience swimming with these funny creatures in their native ecosystem and make unforgettable memories.
- Miami Beach: Plunge into the lively spirit of Miami Beach where world-famous Art Deco meets colorful cafes and exciting fiestas. Relax on the beach, go shopping in Miami’s vibrant South Beach district, or learn how to surf and catch some waves.
- Everglades National Park: Get ready for an amazing trip into the one-of-a-kind environment of the Everglades. Look at the alligators, birds, and other animals on an airboat tour, hike through the forest where all species thrive, or kayak in mangrove forests to discover hidden beauty beneath the water.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: Accessible only by ferry or seaplane, this secluded archipelago will offer you a secret little paradise. Unforgettable beaches with crystal clear waters and a rich marine world invite visitors to discover amazing snorkeling and diving opportunities. Visit the old Fort Jefferson, a gigantic 19th-century military building, and immerse yourself in the region’s great history.
- Key Largo: Considered as the “Diving Capital of the World,” Key Largo is well known for its world-class diving and snorkeling sites in colorful coral reefs filled with sea creatures. Discover the colorful fish darting among the coral formations at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and immerse yourself in the regional ecosystem and its vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of the planet at the Florida Keys Aquarium.
- Augustine: Plunge into the fascinating cultural history of the country’s oldest permanently occupied European settlement. Discover Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the US, and imagine being in the same place where countless historical individuals used to be. Walk along romantic cobblestone streets, where shops and restaurants of different kinds await you, and explore the old city’s energy through museums and ancient sites.
- Miami’s Art Deco District: Take a trip back in time and dive into the lively Art Deco style of Miami’s South Beach. Admire the pastel-colored buildings, each one with its own special architectural features, and enjoy the ‘buzz’ of this historical region. Discover the wide range of art galleries and shops, which showcase both local and international talented artists, to immerse yourself in the charm of past time.
- Kennedy Space Center: Discover the space journey at the Kennedy Space Center. Take a journey through the launch complex, see the rocket’s quick power tests, and learn about the United States’ Space development through various interactive exhibits and simulations. Have an opportunity to see the future of space travel and be amazed by the creativity and commitment of those who have challenged human boundaries in outer space.
- Naples: A piece of paradise awaits you in Naples, with its gorgeous beaches, high-end shopping, and exhilarating arts scene. Cruise the Naples Botanical Garden which is a haven for those who are passionate about plants, the Naples Art Museum to discover world-class masterpieces, or just lie on the untouched beaches basking in the sun.
- Amelia Island: Submerge yourself in the unique character of Amelia Island, a remote island that features clean white beaches, historical Victorian buildings, and not only that, a gentle calming atmosphere. Try Fort Clinch State Park, an old Civil War fort, or go to the Amelia Island Museum of History to find out about the fascinating history of the island. Try the freshest seafood dishes at the seafood restaurants in town and go walking on streets filled with shops and boutiques.
Florida doesn’t limit itself to the theme parks as its ambitious diversity involves much more. Kayaking through the serene waters of the Florida Keys or airboating through the Everglades National Park will offer an irresistible way to experience the state’s natural ecosystems. History enthusiasts can spend time marveling at St. Augustine’s Castillo as well as the traces of Spanish colonialism at Miami’s Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
Culture-hungry people may find the happening art scene of Miami with its numerous galleries and museums their perfect playground. Gourmands can enjoy fresh seafood from local shores, experience the unique Cuban tastes of Miami, or take a journey through the many ethnic pockets of the state.
Florida with its stunning landscapes, captivating history, and vivacious culture is waiting to be explored by any kind of traveler. Thus, get your gear ready, enjoy the warmth, and venture out to explore the extraordinary beyond the routine. Let Florida surprise you.
