27 Family Friendly Florida Vacations to Try This Year
Are you looking for some family-friendly vacation ideas to try in Florida this year? There are plenty of options, depending on the location you want to visit and your budget. In this article, travel enthusiast and former St. Augustine, Florida resident Brianna Carter shares her favorite Florida vacation ideas for families!
Last updated: April 11, 2024
23 min read
Contents
Florida, with its vibrant plant life, curious creatures, and pristine water draws many visitors annually from all regions of the world. From theme parks to water excursions, museums, and national parks, how can anyone decide which vacation to choose?
With over 8,000 miles of coastline, it’s hard to know which beach is suitable for your next family adventure. Many people venture to Florida for these epic places that exist right here in the USA. But not all sand is created equal.
The Sunshine State is home to a plethora of spectacular sandy shores, many of which will make you feel as though you’ve eloped to foreign lands. From Pensacola to the Keys to the First Coast, here are a few around the state that can’t be missed:
Atlantic Ocean Coastal Beaches
Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island
Activities
Historic Sites, Pristine Beaches, Water Activities, Charming Streets, Delicious Seafood
Peak Season
Spring (March to May), Summer (June to August)
Weather
This quaint and quiet Northeast Florida town flirts with the Georgia line, only separated by the St. Mary’s River. Here, the beaches are expansive. Dig in the sand, fly a kite, or take a swim, the beach beckons for activities. Rent bikes to cruise around the old town or stroll lackadaisically through the main street.
Besides the beach: Partake in a tennis outing. Hard courts are located in the park for the whole family to play a set or two. Tour the Amelia Island Lighthouse. Constructed in 1838, it’s the state’s oldest lighthouse. Fish from the shores or take a boat to sea. Horseback ride on the beach or bike around town.
Take a sunset cruise to scour the waters for manatees and dolphins. Kayak through the brackish mangroves, and even venture to Cumberland Island National Seashore where you’ll witness see an elusive pack of feral horses grazing leisurely on the park grounds. Tour Fort Clinch and learn how it became a Union army foothold during the Civil War. Walk the scenic grounds to spot birds–this is one of the first stops on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail–as well as other wildlife.
Fuel Up: To get the day off to the best start, meander over to Amelia Island Coffee gets. Whether it’s a freshly brewed cup or a chilled espresso drink, these beverages will get you ready for a full day of play. Pair it with one of their scrambled avocado toasts or a pastry to keep the energy flowing.
The Salty Pelican is marina adjacent serving delicious cuisine and impeccable service. It’s a great spot to watch any sporting event while you snack on some fan-favorite bites like tuna nachos, crab dip, and loaded potato spring rolls. Try the array of tempting tacos, burgers, and delectable entrees. For a relaxed yet delicious culinary experience, head to The Boat House, a building that was once a boat repair yard. This restaurant offers the best of land and sea in the cool of the air conditioning or outside in the breeze.
Sandbar Amelia Island is a lowkey restaurant overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Listen to the crashing tide as you nosh on oven-baked wings or scrumptious crab cakes while you cool off with your favorite refreshments. It’s the perfect end to a day in the sun.
Stay: There are numerous delightful options to select when staying overnight on Amelia Island.
Opt for the quiet decadence of the Omni Amelia Island Resort or the Ritz Carlton Fernandina Beach. Both hotels offer views of the sparkling Atlantic and are a short drive from the bustle of the town.
Further north on the coastline, Elizabeth Point also offers ocean views as does neighbor property Seaside Amelia Inn. Adjacent to these are popular brand hotels like Courtyard By Marriot and Comfort Inn and Suites.
Local inns, walkable to the downtown hub, include Amelia Schoolhouse Inn, Florida House Inn, and Amelia Island Williams House. The Hampton Inn and Suites is also a quick walk to the main street.
Or check out one of the cozy bed and breakfasts like Hoyt House, Fairbanks House, and The Addison on Amelia Island, which also offers packages and unique area experiences.
St. Augustine
Activities
St. Augustine’s Castillo De San Marcos, Fort Matanzas, St. Augustine Lighthouse, Flagler College
Peak Season
Spring (March to May), Summer (June to August)
Weather
For history, culture, and unending fun, St. Augustine is the perfect spot to spend a family vacation. Beaches abound, from St. Augustine Beach to the inlet of Vilano Beach. These sandy shores are also in close proximity to various entertainment options that are great for the entire family.
Your days will be bursting with adventure as new memories are created. Live music can be experienced at the outdoor venue the St. Augustine Amphitheater. Check out the unmatched reptiles at the Alligator Farm–even see them from above, gliding over the park’s zip lines. Visit the locally operated St. Augustine Aquarium.
Get close to critters at the touch pools or by feeding the sting rays (there’s a zipline here, too). Explore the long Spanish heritage when you visit the Castillo de San Marcos. Stumbled back in time as you wander down St. George Street. Learn about the indigenous populations of the Northeast coast at the Fountain of Youth.
Play a round of mini-golf at Anastasia Mini Golf. St. Augustine has it all. Relax after a long day at the spa or pursue the local offerings at some of the many shops and boutiques. For all of our favorite things in St. Augustine, dive into this article.
There are tons of restaurants that cater to kids’ cuisine as well as parents’ palates. See our favorites in this article.
Where to stay: Wren Beach Rentals is a local leasing center with many houses of various sizes available. For hotels walkable to the town square, Casa Monica Resort and Spa,
Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront and the boutique St. George Inn are all great options.
For beach-front properties in St. Augustine Beach, Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Oceanfront Resort is a perfect location as is the Courtyard by Marriott St. Augustine. Both hotels are easy walking the water and close to restaurants and the pier.
Vilano Beach hotels are a five-minute drive to downtown. Magic Beach Motel, Holiday Inn Express, St. Augustine Beach Inn, Hampton Inn and Suites, as well as the new Hyatt Place, are all options with close proximity to the sand. And at this location, four-wheel drive vehicles can drive onto the sand for a fee.
Cocoa Beach
Activities
Cocoa Beach Pier, Kennedy Space Center, Lori Wilson Park, Exploration Tower, Water Sports
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
South of St. Augustine, is the enticing Space Coast. Full of water activities, this region is also home to the Kennedy Space Center and shuttle launches as well as Florida’s surfing history. Fun fact: Decorated surfer Kelly Slater has his water roots in Cocoa Beach.
Grab a lesson and catch a wave. Try skimboarding or kite surfing. Walk through the rich biodiversity and habitats of Florida’s waters when you visit Cape Canaveral National Seashore. If you’re fortunate, you’ll catch a glimpse of the illustrious manatee or spot some lively dolphins. (Check out all the Space Coast has to offer in this breakdown).
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating are also immensely popular in Cocoa Beach. When visiting between July and October, seek out the ultimate water excursion a bioluminescent tour.
This phenomenon occurs when a water-living microorganism–known as dinoflagellates–is agitated by movement causing a chemical reaction that’s emitted as blue light. Though this occurs year-round, late summer is the best time to catch it. Companies like Cocoa Kayaking and Florida Bioluminescent Tours offer various options to catch this magical occurrence.
Stay: There are dozens of hotels, motels, and options to enjoy great rest while visiting Cocoa Beach. Most large brands host several properties (like Hilton, Marriot, Holiday Inns, and Radisson).
Vacation rentals are another option when vacationing on the Space Coast. Get the space you need with views, amenities, and more.
The Hilton Cocoa Beach is a perfect option for families who want to be in the mix with all the amenities onsite. With a heated pool, beach shack, multiple restaurants, and water access, it is easy to hop out to the ocean and back to the room for a quick change to enjoy some food.
Palm Beach
Activities
Worth Avenue, Norton Museum, Atlantic Beaches, Flagler Museum and Breakers Hotel
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to March)
Weather
Palm Beach sets the stage for an all-encompassing vacation. Whether it’s tranquil sea breezes, bustling city vibes, or outdoor thrills that you seek, the Plam Beach area offers an all-access pass to history, excitement, and relaxation.
Separated from the main peninsula by a lagoon, Palm Beach is an island destination with loads to explore. With 47 miles of coastline, there’s a congenial location for every personality.
Railroad tycoon Henry Flagler built his mansion, known as Whitehall, in Palm Beach proper. Today the 100,000 square-foot, 75-room estate serves as a museum paying tribute to Flagler’s contributions to the railway and the Sunshine State (it even hosts his personal rail car!).
Peanut Island is situated in the lagoon. It’s a favorite spot to seek out manatees, camp, and snorkel. Boating and water sports are also in demand at this location. Access to this niche location is provided by a shuttle boat. During peak season, definitely book in advance to guarantee your place. The most surprising fact about this island is the existence of a Cold War Bunker.
For intriguing flora and fauna, visit Mounts Botanical Garden. The grounds encompass over 20 unique settings, including a Moai-inspired tropical installation, butterfly and rose gardens, as well as a focus on Florida’s native plants. Learn from master gardeners. Find the kids connecting with nature as they meander through the grounds with the treasure trek map. Mounts even has a kid’s maze.
Check out the website for special events like Qi Gong or Dogs Day at the gardens. The grounds are closed Mondays and holidays. Entry is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, military, and college students (with ID), $7 for children ages 6 to 17, and free for kids 5 and younger.
Curious about one of the most feared creatures on the planet? Squash any fears with a shark tour. Shark Tours Florida offers excursions for the brave and daring–you will be swimming with these awe-inspiring predators. This is definitely not for the faint of heart, nor anyone under 12. (Must be 12 and over to go overboard, all ages can ride.)
Just north of Palm Beach is Juno Beach, a popular area for swimming and fishing, especially on the pier, which also hosts fishing instruction for as little as $5. Near the pier, is The Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a turtle hospital with interactive exhibits and tours dedicated to sea turtle conservation.
Jupiter Beach
Activities
Explore Jupiter Beach, FL With Lighthouse Views, Water Adventures, Parks, and Scenic Spots
Peak Season
Winter (December to February), Summer (June to August)
Weather
Jupiter Beach is home to dog-friendly waters. Bring your pooch for a day on the sand–and please remember to clean up after them. It’s free to access the area. After a day of swimming and splashing, ascend the lighthouse stairs for sweeping coastal views.
The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum is open for visitors Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am until 4 pm. Guided tours occur on weekdays at 12 and 2 pm. Admission is free for 5 and younger, $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and veterans, and $6 for ages 6 to 18.
For nature enthusiasts, Jonathan Dickinson State Park. From camping to cycling, lake walks to boating, this state park has every facet of outdoor fun. Trek through nearly 9 miles to go from lake to ocean. There are even seven miles of trails for horseback riding.
Take a pontoon boat tour to discover the history and surroundings of the Loxahatchee River, including an interpreted version of Trapper Nelson’s wild camp Inland adventures are also plenty.
Avid hikers and equestrians will want to try the trails at Riverbend Park. Set inland just 15 minutes from the beach, this park boasts 10 miles of interconnected paths and seven miles of trails for horseback riding.
One of the most well-loved landmarks in the Jupiter Beach area is Blowing Rocks Preserve; Anastasia limestone (Aka coquina) that appears to shatter waves as the high tides smash into this rigid earth, spraying water to heights of 50 feet.
There are short trails in and around the rocks providing stunning sea views. Some of these pathways have become known as “hobbit tunnels” due to their densely packed, overhanging foliage creating a picturesque walkway. Pack a picnic for a beach day. Access to the rocks is $2 per person.
The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary was founded in 1983 to rehabilitate and release injured creatures. Today, it continues this mission, while also providing a home for seriously impaired animals and educating the public about Florida wildlife and conservation.
Tour the sanctuary to experience wildlife encounters, creature talks, or even reserve a spot to paint with an animal. For little animal lovers, the facility hosts Toddler Storytime each Wednesday. The sanctuary is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am until 4:30. While entry is free, donations are strongly encouraged.
Gulf Side Beaches
Destin/Fort Walton Beaches
Activities
White Sand Beaches, Gulfarium, Indian Temple Mound, Water Activities, Okaloosa Pier
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Snowy sand from Appalachian quartz glitters against the jade tides. Known as the emerald coast due to the lush green of the waters, the area spans 100 miles of the Gulf coastline from Pensacola to Panama City. These tranquil beaches are a hot spot for family fun. Kid-centric adventures are at the heart of the town.
Young ones can learn to paddleboard, surf, or fish. Experienced swimmers can snorkel with the stingrays or dive down to search for sand dollars. When water sports have worn them out, visit the family-owned Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. See sloths, kangaroos, and giraffes, as well as sea lions, dolphins, and penguins, with the Gulf waters sparkling in the background. For an adrenaline rush, speed over the wooden planks of The Track, which also has other rides and games to explore.
Make a splash on the water slide or float along the river at Big Kahuna’s water park. Then dry off at the Adventure park with a game of mini golf or one of the many rides. It’s perfect for kids of all ages.
Stay: The Wyndham Hotel Group provides several hotel options in the Destin-Fort Walton area, as does IHG Hotels and Resorts. Hilton properties are numerous on the shores as well and Marriott offers 10 locations to keep tourists comfortable.
Henderson Park Inn is a charming local beach-facing property that shares amenities with Henderson Beach Resort. With lawn games, a spa, a kids club, and activities, it’s the perfect place where all ages can play. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is the ultimate family resort with a kids club, tennis facilities, dining options, and on-site events (and obviously golf).
Campgrounds are accessible in the area. RV resorts like Camping on the Gulf, Destin RV Beach Resort (which also offers condo rentals), and Destin West RV Resort provide pools, community amenity centers, and laundry facilities to make your stay comfortable. Henderson Beach State Park is home to 60 campsites with beach access. Make your reservations early, these spots fill up fast.
St. George Island State Park
Activities
Pristine Beaches, Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Hiking, Birdwatching, Gulf Fishing
Peak Season
Spring (March to May)
Weather
St. George Island State Park is an ideal destination for families who want to escape into nature. The sand at this beach is said to be some of the best and has been named the top shore in the USA by CNN’s “Dr. Beach,” Stephen Leatherman.
For outdoor enthusiasts, this state park has it all. Dive into the Gulf of Mexico from the shores of St. George. Paddle through the waters in a canoe or kayak. Catch your own dinner. The bay is known for redfish, flounder, and sea trout to name a few.
Pitch a tent beneath clear skies and see an abundance of twinkling lights when you stay at one of the 60 campsites. Cycle through the area or meander the paths, the best way to sneak some peaks at the diverse and plentiful wildlife.
Visit the 77-foot-tall Cape St. George Lighthouse. With 92 stairs of wood spiraling to the top, this treasure is sure to get your heart thumping. Children six and under are free while seven and older are only $5.
Stay: Several companies like Houfy and Vacasa offer beach rentals available on the island. Camping is another convenient option at St. George Island State Park.
Siesta Key and Sarasota
Activities
Pristine Beaches, Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Hiking, Birdwatching, Gulf Fishing
Peak Season
Spring (March to May)
Weather
Siesta Key and Sarasota: nestled between Fort Myers and Tampa, Sarasota is a quaint and idyllic destination offering an array of activities. From the sandy white shores that host countless water activities to the museums and culinary culture, options for intrigue are limitless.
Key Culinary Tours merges food with fun and history in its many offerings. For the cuisine enthusiasts, sink your teeth into the Historic Vence Culinary Tour or a downtown Sarasota lunch or dinner tour. Get a taste of how women impacted the region during the Wild Women of Sarasota Walking tour. Families can dive into the fun during the Lido beach or Sharks Teeth and More family adventure. Dare to be scared on one of the historic and disturbing ghost tours.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a favorite with families. The attraction has been welcoming visits since 1939 and there are many sights to see. Interact with a lemur. Take pictures with parrots. Get close to creatures at the petting zoo. There are ten lovely acres to explore! Meet the keepers and see the shows to learn all about the diverse animals in the park.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The Circus King, as John Ringling came to be known, built a winter home in the city of Sarasota. As the Ringlings had no offspring, the estate and art collection was willed to the state of Florida.
Today, the museum highlights the pinnacle of circus days, a favorite pastime, as well as the extensive art collection of John and Mable Ringling. Their home, known as Ca’D’Zan (House of John), has been restored to the family’s glory days and serves as an elaborate event space. It can also be toured for interested visitors.
The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium endeavors to educate the public through continual research on aquatic life and ocean trends. The facility has been serving the Sarasota area since 1955. In addition to the aquarium, Mote also has two satellite campuses, one in the Keys and the other in East Sarasota County.
Visit the manatee and otters, sharks, and sea turtles. Enjoy the Mote Boat through the marina. Plan an animal encounter. Enjoy breakfast with the sharks. Or hang on for the virtual reality experience. Swim with whales or dive into the depths of the ocean.
It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss. The Mote is open daily from 9:30 am until 5 pm. Entry for adults 13 years and over is $26 and $19 for ages 3 to 12. Visit mote.org for booking, membership details, and more.
Myakka Elephant Ranch is home to Asian and African elephants. This sanctuary strives to educate the public about these gentle giants and the dangers they face in the wild. At the ranch, encounter reservations must be booked in advance and regularly sell out. Reservations can be made online.
St. Petersburg and Clearwater
Activities
Dali Museum, Sunken Gardens, Vinoy Park, Central Arts District, Florida Aquarium
Peak Season
Winter (Late December to Early April)
Weather
The St. Petersburg area has shores for days, many of them repeatedly voted in the top beaches in America. These idyllic sands make an epic canvas for family beach days. Paddleboarding and kayaking through the region’s mangroves is another highlight, as are fishing excursions, and dolphin and sunset cruises.
The area is also a bountiful entity for kid activities. At the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, visitors can opt for self-guided tours to see turtles, dolphins, sharks, sting rays, and more creatures of the deep, featuring numerous animal presentations.
The aquarium also offers boat rides and guided tours through the bay and local estuaries. Animal experiences are another way to learn about these aquatic animals. Build a salad for a sea turtle or learn how sharks are cared for in captive waters. It’s an encounter to remember forever.
Great Explorations is a hands-on environment for kids to stimulate their social and motor skills and flex their creative minds. Kids can immerse themselves in various, stimulating exhibits. From art activities to the imagination playground, and the live on-air TV exhibit to the STEAM station bubbling with experiments, it’s an indoor way to keep children inspired through play.
With fishing options, a splash pad, a playground, plus restaurants galore, St. Pete Pier puts other piers to shame. Tour the St. Petersburg Museum of History. Learn more at the Discovery Center and Wet Classroom. Walk along the scenic path or pack a picnic to enjoy. Pull up a chair and dig your feet in the sands of Spa Beach. It’s a full day of fun and sun, all in one place.
For art enthusiasts, The Dali Museum pays homage to celebrated artist Salvador Dali, featuring 2400 of his works. Stroll leisurely through the exhibits to experience the impact of his craft. Even engage the kids with Dilldally with Dali program or the little surrealist’s tour.
St. Petersburg is a great destination for swoon-worthy events. Featuring live concerts, food tours, yoga socials, museums, and more, there’s always something new and exciting to explore.
Florida Keys
These barrier islands deserve a whole section for themselves. The region stretches from Martin County on mainland Florida and curves southwest for over 350 miles to the Dry Tortugas, an area only accessible by seaplane or boat. As such, aquatic adventures abound in the Southernmost region.
Various areas of the keys are ripe for favorite water activities: boat charters and fishing, sunset cruises and glass water boats, kayaks and paddling boarding, jet skiing, and diving. Discover true gems when you snorkel in the only coral reef in the United States.
Upper Keys and Biscayne National Park
Activities
Snorkel, Dive the Maritime Heritage Trail, Boat Scenic Biscayne Bay, Tour Diverse Islands
Peak Season
Winter and Early Spring (December to April)
Weather
This region is actually adjacent to the mainland, about 40 minutes south of Miami International Airport. Biscayne National Park welcomes all sorts of water sports and boating activities. The park is 95% water, so dive in. Exploring the park by watercraft is the best to revel in its dynamic natural beauty.
Key Largo and Islamorada
Activities
Snorkel in John Pennekamp Park, Water Sports at Robbie’s, Discover Diving History
Peak Season
Winter (December to February)
Weather
Why don’t you go to Key Largo?! As the first town on the islands, Key Largo is a quick hop for locals seeking a getaway and for all tourists who craves time in the waves.
First of all, it’s pronounced EYE-la-MORE-a-dah. This destination is a sport-fishers paradise, making it an ideal place to charter a boat and cast a line. Snuggled further into the islands, it’s a local hub and tourist hotspot with numerous restaurants and eateries, hotel resorts, and unknown stays.
Key Attractions: These activities are accessible whether you chose to stay closer to the Key Largo or snug in Islamorada.
USS Spiegel Grove Ship Wreck is a sunken ship, now how to an array of coral, fish, and other creatures. Commissioned in 1956, the ship made its final voyage in 1989 before it was sunk to support the water ecosystem off the coast of the Florida Keys. Now, all 510 feet of length make for an unimaginable snorkel excursion. The best way to reach the wreckage is by a dive charter.
There are numerous ways to indulge in this reef adventure. Whether you love to dive deep into the waters or prefer to remain on a boat, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is an ideal excursion for the whole family. See the stunning scenery from a glass bottom boat, canoe through the park, or flick your fins for a submerged adventure, swimming with the sea life.
There are 70 square nautical miles to explore. The park also hosts trail and picnic areas to enjoy nature on the shore. 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, Mile Marker 102.5
Founded in 1946, the Theater of the Sea is one of the oldest marine mammal facilities on the planet. They are dedicated to education, conservation, and memorable guest experiences.
Here, they make dreams come true with animal interactions. Swim with dolphins, sharks, or sea lions. Meet sea turtles, alligators, or parrots. Cruise the lagoon in the glass bottom boat and take in one of the many animal shows. Throughout the park, learn about the creatures during animal talks. It’s the perfect way to spend a day for any animal lover. 84721 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036
For the porpoise lover or anyone seeking a personal encounter with a spectacular creature, Dolphin’s Plus is the place to be. Play, paint, or splurge on the premier family package, the options are endless and the artwork is exquisite. Dockside greetings complete with kisses are another great way to create memorable experiences. 101900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, Bayside at Mile Marker 102
Stay: From luxury resorts to campgrounds, Key Largo hosts plenty of options to make your stay memorable, and affordable.
Grassy Key RV Park and Resort offers day rates and extended stay options for travelers.
Marathon
Activities
Sombrero Beach, Turtle Hospital, Sombrero Reef, Crane Point Museum, Boot Key Harbor
Peak Season
Winter (December to February)
Weather
Approximately two hours from Miami Airport and an hour from Key West Airport, you’ll find the heart of the keys. Marathon is full of activities, accommodations, and unforgettable experiences.
As a working establishment, The Turtle Hospital strives to rehabilitate animals and release them back home to the sea. They are open for tours and educational sessions to learn more about aquatic life and how the hospital serves wild animals. For various reasons, some turtles cannot return to the open waters and thus can be “adopted.”
Visiting the hospital includes an educational tour and discussion, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at the facility and its occupants. You may even find some of the turtles who have been patients make their permanent homes in other facilities right in the Keys. 2396 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 Mile Marker 48.5
The Dolphin Research Center is more than a research facility. While research is a top priority, education and animal enrichment programs are at the core of the establishment. Dolphins may be rehabilitated and released, or if in dire need, have a forever home at the center.
Additionally, sea lions, parrots, tortoises, and other birds make their home here in and around the sea salt lagoons. Dolphin encounters are a popular experience. Have an intimate encounter with a dolphin or a family splash. After a day with these incredible creatures, cool off in the Sprayground water park. 58901 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, FL 33050
It’s a hands-on experience at Aquarium Encounters. Stingrays, giant isopods (like roly-poly of the sea), seastar, and horseshoe crabs are just a few of the creatures you can get personal with as you witness them interact in natural-like habitats.
For more adventure, opt for an encounter with sharks or stingrays. These involve feeding and interacting with the animals at the direction of the biologist. It’s the ultimate animal excursion, all in one place. Encounters range in cost. 11710 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
Stay: Vacation rentals and campgrounds are popular. Marathon hosts many hotels. Marriot has several options in the area while Hilton has one Hampton Inn locally.
Other resort-style options include Banana Bay Resort and Marina and Isla Bella Beach Resort.
For an incredible family stay, Hawks Cay has it all. Family pools and lagoons. Restaurants and snack shops. Tennis and pickleball, even dolphin encounters on site! Oh, and there’s a spa for the ultimate space to destress. From family excursions to adult-only areas, it’s the best of everything.
Additionally, Hawks Camp is for children five to 12. Parents can enroll their child daily for three hours, or stop in to explore the rotating daily activities. Everybody wins!
Lower Keys and Beyond
Activities
Marquesa Keys, Dry Tortugas National Park
Peak Season
Winter (December to February)
Weather
Suppose your family likes a sea adventure and knows the ropes of sailboats, venture further west into the Gulf of Mexico. This is where water “rugged” adventures begin. Marquesa Keys are nestled 25 miles past the main thread of islands.
This uninhabited conglomerate of nine islands comprises connected mangroves and shimmering sands. There is limited access to where tourists can venture in order to preserve wildlife. The area is known for incredible fishing, yet motored boats and other water vehicles are not allowed. Sailing excursions are the best way to make the most of this location.
For the wild and wonderful seekers, farther still, 70 miles west of Key West, is where Dry Tortugas National Park is. The 100-mile park is mostly water, making it an aqua lovers’ dream. Dive amongst the fish or kayak through the calm waters, the wildlife is unmatched. Burrow yourself fully in nature, as camping is the only means to stay at this location.
Spring into Adventure
Florida is home to over a thousand freshwater springs, where wildlife is swirling and fun is whirling through the waters. Like many beaches, the natural spring waters are ripe for snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, and scuba diving. Hiking, biking, and trail running are also popular activities.
Wakulla Springs
Activities
Boat Tours, Wildlife, Trails, Lodge, and Nearby Attractions
Peak Season
Winter and Spring (November to April)
Weather
Outside of Tallahassee is one of the most popular and historical locations. Wakulla Springs is home to the deepest spring that has been the set of several movies. The region is bursting with majestic plant life, including the illustrious cypress tree. The area is rich with chronicles from indigenous persons who were the first to explore the area.
Boat tours are a great way to learn about the beginnings of the region. Wakulla also has a beach area with a 22-foot dive tower for those daring to take the leap. The Lodge at Wakulla Springs is the best way to experience the wonder of the region. Founded in 1937, the hotel is rich with stories of days gone by and the secrets of the spring’s popularity.
Local festivals make this an entertaining visit, too. See what’s happening while you’re in town.
Blue Spring
Activities
Witness Turquoise Springs, Swim, Snorkel, Riverboat Tour, Manatee Observation, Trails, Kayak
Peak Season
Winter (Mid-November to March)
Weather
What makes many of these waters immeasurably special is the presence of Manatees. Florida manatees, affectionately referred to as sea cows, generally live most of the time in salt waters. However, many migrate to brackish estuaries or freshwater areas, particularly during the colder months. Blue Spring State Park is one such place where manatees congregate, making it a special environment to see these gentle beasts in the wild.
Blue Spring is an easy drive from many locations and an ideal destination for a day trip (only 90 minutes from St. Augustine and Cocoa Beach and 40 from Orlando and Daytona).
The calm, crystal waters are soothing, providing a scenic backdrop for hiking, bird watching, swimming, or tubing. Snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding are also popular. For adventure seekers and critter investigators, camping within the park is a wonderful way to be immersed in nature. Reservations can be made at the park’s website.
Hotels are also in close proximity. Choose from local options like the Alling House and Tropical Resort and Marina, or well know brands like Holiday Inn Express or Courtyard by Marriot.
Note, there is an entry fee to Blue Spring even for a day visit. Rates depend on the type of vehicle and the number of guests.
Crystal River and Homosassa Springs
Activities
Swim With Manatees, Explore Crystal River Archaeological Park, Boat Tours, Wildlife, and History
Peak Season
Winter (Late November to Early April)
Weather
The world is your oyster…er perhaps your scallop when you visit Crystal River and Homosassa Springs. On the west coast of Florida, scalloping is one way to experience the Gulf waters. Travel down the river until you reach the salty sea, then dive in. Tours from Manatees and More as well as Blue Heaven River Tours offer this adventure along with other excursions like sunset cruises and dolphin tours.
Manatee encounters also abound in the Springs area. Many companies offer guided river outings plus the opportunity to splash with the sea cows. Fun 2 Dive provides semi-private and small group manatee tours in Crystal River. Learn about the majestic creatures then dive in with your gear while the guide assists.
Stay: Florida Cracker Riverside Resort offers 54 rooms in close proximity to the springs. The hotel is full service complete with a general store and on-site restaurant. There’s even a pool as well as kayak, boat, and paddleboard rentals.
Nature’s Resort hosts RVs and tents for camping. Amenities include a heated pool, a clubhouse with a game room, laundry facilities, and basketball and volleyball courts. The resort also regularly hosts events and cookouts for the community to gather. The springs are only 90 minutes from the Tampa area making it an easy day trip.
Can’t Miss Staples
Everglades
Activities
Shark Valley, Airboat Tours, Anhinga Trail, Kayaking, Big Cypress, Tamiami Trail, Birdwatching
Peak Season
Dry Season (Late Fall to Early Spring), Winter Months (December to February)
Weather
Spanning 1.5 million acres, the Florida Everglades is some serious grounds that require plenty of planning. Its allure is quite remarkable, the numerous ecosystems provide habitats for a plethora of plants and animals unlike anywhere else in the world.
In the 1800s, the lands were drained to accommodate houses and to develop farmland, which nearly devastated the area and the various life forms it supported. By 1947, the region was officially designated as a national park.
Today, this reinvigorated gem can be explored by boat, bike, tram, or hike at the direction of expert guides or trekked through independently. Shark Valley Tram Tours specializes in guided expeditions by tram and bike. The trail is a 15-mile loop through the various niches of the park which takes about two hours to complete.
The naturalist will highlight flora, fauna, and wildlife within the grounds, fusing sightseeing with education while detailing specific spectacles only found in the Everglades. Biking the path can be done in a leisurely fashion without guided support.
Gliding over the river waters is a way to be immersed in nature, yet maintain a safe distance from notorious reptiles. Reserve a seat on the craft or schedule a private outing. Gator Park, Cooperstown Airboats, and Everglades Safari Park are recommended by National Park services for both styles of boating.
Orlando
Activities
Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, Wetlands Park, ICON Park, Kennedy Space Center
Peak Season
Spring Break (March to April)
Weather
Experience the magic and more. The world is very familiar with Orlando. It’s where dreams come true. Theme parks take center stage in this city whose name is synonymous with abounding family fun. In fact, seven of the 10 most popular amusement parks are found in Orlando.
Disney is a famously popular attraction in the area, featuring notable options like Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom for unbeatable options to quell the anticipation of thrills and frills. Legoland, Jurassic World, Universal Studios, Sea World, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter can fulfill many fantasies, too. Meet your favorite characters. Watch majestic creatures. Enjoy rides and games. Besides all these amusements, there are a plethora of water parks to keep you refreshed in the heat of summer.
What makes Orlando an ideal vacation destination is its proximity to numerous outside excursions. It’s only two hours from Tampa Bay and historic St. Augustine and an hour from the coastal tides of Daytona and Cocoa Beaches. After your park passes expire, spend a few days frolicking in the sands and jumping in the waves. Learn how the Space Coast propelled the USA’s missions outside the atmosphere and how Oldest City in America was first spotted in the early 1500s.
Exotic Options: Maybe you’ve seen the sights, taken the “can’t miss” tours, and been to all the theme parks one human can handle. It’s time to expand these escapades and go beyond the coast. Since Florida is ever-so-close to many Caribbean destinations, it serves as a launch point to foreign lands. Start at Cape Canaveral and cruise through the Caribbean waters, hopping from port to port to experience cultural nuances.
Use one of the many international airports to soar to Puerto Rico, where no passport is required (for US citizens). Only have one day to explore? Opt for a hop to Bimini, Bahamas by ferry or seaplane. Regardless of the adventures you seek, Florida has a way to make dreams come true.
