12 Amazing Outdoor Things To Do In Florida

outdoor things to do in florida

Florida is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor activities in the United States. There’s something for everyone whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an outdoor adventure, or a combination of both. From kayaking and camping to swimming with manatees and exploring the Everglades, here are 12 amazing outdoor things to do in Florida that you won’t want to miss.

Characteristic Tips
Weather Dress appropriately for the climate and bring sunscreen.
Accommodations Look for campsites, hotels and other lodging before you go.
Activities Research and plan out activities in advance.
Transportation Be sure to plan for transportation to and from your destination.
Safety Be mindful of safety precautions such as wearing the proper safety gear and bringing a first aid kit.

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Everglades National Park

Everglades
Source: National Park Service

Visitors to Everglades National Park can experience a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. Boating is a popular activity in the park, with many rental options available. Fishing is also popular in the park, with both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. Camping is also a great way to enjoy the park, with camping spots located throughout the park.

The park is also home to many different unique plants and animals. Visitors can enjoy observing the wildlife in the park, including the American crocodile, bald eagle, and roseate spoonbill. The park also has many different trails, including the Anhinga Trail, Eco Pond Trail, and Gator Hole Trail.

The park also offers many educational and interpretive programs, such as the Everglades Day Safari and the Guided Tour. These programs provide visitors with an in-depth look at the park's ecology, wildlife, and history.

Visitors to Everglades National Park can also participate in various activities, such as airboat rides, kayaking, and canoeing. Airboat rides are a popular way to explore the park, while kayaking and canoeing offer visitors the chance to explore the park's waterways.

Visiting Everglades National Park is an experience you will never forget. Whether you are looking to explore the park's diverse wildlife, take in the breathtaking views, or participate in activities like airboat rides, kayaking, or canoeing, this park has something for everyone.

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Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry
Source: Viator
Characteristic Description
NameDry Tortugas National Park
TypeNational park in Florida
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.8 / 1,416
AddressFlorida
Phone(305) 242-7700
Profiles       

The park is home to seven small islands and is surrounded by crystal-clear, turquoise waters. It is a pristine paradise for nature lovers, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world. The coral reefs are home to an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, parrotfish, dolphins, and more.

For those looking for a more relaxing experience, the park offers several beaches and campsites. Spend your days soaking up the sun on the white-sand beaches, fishing, or exploring the various islands. It is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

The park also offers a number of interesting historical sites. The most famous of these is Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century military fort used during the Civil War. You can explore the fort’s grounds and learn about its history. There are also several lighthouses throughout the park, which tell the story of the area’s past.

To make the most of your visit, be sure to plan ahead and book your ferry or seaplane tickets in advance. There are a limited number of spots available on each trip, so be sure to book early. Additionally, bring all the gear necessary for your activities and make sure to research the regulations and safety precautions that are in place.

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St. Augustine

St.
Source: Ocean Gallery

For centuries, St. Augustine has been a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the area's culture and history. The city was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, making it the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. The city is home to many historic sites and attractions, including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse.

When visiting St. Augustine, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Take a stroll along the historic streets of the city and explore its many shops and galleries. There are numerous parks and nature preserves to explore, such as the Anastasia State Park and Fort Matanzas National Monument. A popular activity is to take a boat tour and admire the city from the water.

The best time to visit St. Augustine is from late March to early May, when the weather is warm and sunny and the temperature is comfortable. During this time, the city hosts several exciting events, such as the St. Augustine Music Festival and the Nights of Lights celebration, which features millions of tiny white lights illuminating the city.

No trip to St. Augustine is complete without a visit to the World Golf Village. This golf-themed complex is home to the World Golf Hall of Fame, a golf course, and a variety of other attractions. Visitors can take a tour of the Hall of Fame and view the exhibits, or take a lesson from one of the instructors.

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Amelia Island

Amelia
Source: Travelzoo

With its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush greenery, Amelia Island is a perfect destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, including kayaking, sailing, fishing, and swimming. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are also a number of hiking and biking trails.

The best time to visit Amelia Island is during the summer months, when the temperatures are warm and the days are long. During this time, visitors can take advantage of the island’s public beaches and take a dip in the ocean. For those looking to stay active, a number of outdoor activities are available, including rock climbing, surfing, and water skiing.

For those looking for a more tranquil experience, Amelia Island is home to a number of nature reserves and wildlife refuges. These reserves provide visitors with opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including birds, dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the island’s nature trails and learn more about the local flora and fauna.

No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, Amelia Island has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous outdoor adventure, this island can provide it. As the famous Cuban poet Juan Ramon Jimenez once said, “On Amelia Island, the sun shines bright and the days are long.”

For those looking to stay on the island, there are plenty of accommodation options, ranging from beachfront resorts to family-friendly hotels. There are also a number of restaurants, bars, and cafes, offering a variety of cuisines to suit any taste. For those looking to explore the area, there are a number of boat tours, as well as kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing excursions.

Overall, Amelia Island is an outdoor paradise with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous outdoor adventure, this island can provide the perfect escape. With its stunning beaches, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife, Amelia Island is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the outdoors.

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Boca Grande

Boca
Source: Naples Florida Travel Guide

Located on Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande is a popular vacation destination for both locals and tourists alike. With its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling. The island is also home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the area.

For those looking for a glimpse into the past, Boca Grande offers plenty of history. It is the former home of the Boca Grande Fishing Company, which was founded in 1907 and helped make the area the fishing capital of the Gulf Coast. It was also the site of the famous Boca Grande Lighthouse, which has been a beacon of guidance to seafarers since 1885.

In addition to its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Boca Grande also has plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. From its world-class fishing charters to its quaint shopping district, there is always something for everyone to do. There are also a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Boca Grande Fishing Festival and the Gasparilla Island Music Festival.

For those looking for a more leisurely experience, there are plenty of spots to relax and take in the scenery. Visitors can stroll through the historic district and take in the sights of the past, or take a boat tour around the island. There is also a number of beachside restaurants and bars, where visitors can enjoy a delicious meal or sip a cold beer and watch the sunset.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled one, Boca Grande has something for everyone. From its stunning beaches to its rich history, visitors can experience the best of what Florida has to offer. With its natural beauty, unique culture, and endless activities, Boca Grande is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

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Sanibel Island

Sanibel
Source: Vacation Idea

For those looking to explore the natural beauty of Sanibel Island, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Hiking is a great way to explore the island's many trails and get a close look at its flora and fauna. Biking is another great way to get around, as there are plenty of bike paths that offer breathtaking views of the island's stunning landscape. Kayaking is also a popular activity, with many areas to explore and enjoy, including the JN 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

If you're looking for a unique way to experience Sanibel Island, bird watching is a great option. With its abundance of native and migratory birds, the island is home to some of the most beautiful species in the world. From pelicans to herons, Sanibel Island provides birders with an unforgettable experience.

Fishing is another popular activity on Sanibel Island. From the beaches to the inland waterways, the island offers a variety of fishing spots, including inshore and offshore. Anglers can find everything from redfish and snook to grouper and tarpon.

For those looking to explore the underwater world, snorkeling is a great way to do so. With its crystal clear waters and abundance of sea life, Sanibel Island is a snorkeler's paradise. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are plenty of spots to explore and enjoy.

No matter what type of outdoor activity you're looking for, Sanibel Island has something for everyone. From its stunning beaches and stunning wildlife to its abundant fishing and snorkeling spots, the island is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous getaway, Sanibel Island is the perfect destination.

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John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John
Source: Florida State Parks
Characteristic Description
NameJohn Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
TypeState park in Monroe County, Florida
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.4 / 8,471
Address102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
Phone(305) 451-6300
HoursWednesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM
Thursday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM
Friday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM
Saturday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM
Sunday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM
Monday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM
Tuesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM

As visitors enter the park, they will be surrounded by lush mangroves and seagrass beds. The waters are home to a variety of colorful fish, sponges, and corals. You may even see the occasional sea turtle or dolphin swimming in the clear waters. Snorkeling is the best way to experience the vibrant coral gardens beneath the surface. The coral reefs are home to some of the most spectacular marine life in the world, with over 500 species of fish and more than 200 species of corals.

For those who want to explore the area on land, the park offers a number of trails that wind through the mangroves and wetlands. The trails are perfect for bird watching, as the park is home to a variety of species, including the American white ibis, roseate spoonbill, and great egret. Visitors can also take a walk along the beach to explore the mangrove islands and search for shells.

For those looking to venture out on the open ocean, the park offers a variety of boat tours. Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the vibrant coral reefs and sea life from the comfort of the boat. The park also offers guided fishing trips for those looking to try their luck at catching a variety of fish.

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Silver Springs State Park

Silver
Source: Florida Rambler

Visitors to the park can explore its many trails, where they can observe native wildlife such as otters, alligators, and birds. The park also offers fishing, canoeing, and kayaking in the silver waters of the springs. For those looking to stay and camp, the park offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping and RV sites.

The park also offers a wealth of educational activities, such as interpretive programs, guided hikes, and presentations on the area’s history and ecology. Visitors can learn about the region’s unique flora and fauna, as well as the rich cultural history of the area. For those interested in history, the park also features a museum with a variety of exhibits focused on the history and ecology of the region.

For those looking to really get away, Silver Springs State Park also offers cabins and lodges for overnight stays. The cabins and lodges provide a perfect home base for outdoor adventures and exploration. Guests can also take advantage of the parks' natural beauty and wildlife by participating in photography tours and other activities.

No matter what type of outdoor experience you are looking for, Silver Springs State Park is an ideal spot to spend a day or a weekend. With its diverse activities, educational programs, and breathtaking scenery, the park provides the perfect escape for those looking to explore nature and reconnect with the outdoors.

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Florida Keys

Florida
Source: Sun Outdoors

The Florida Keys are one of the most beautiful places in the world and offer a variety of outdoor activities for visitors. From snorkeling and scuba diving to kayaking and fishing, the Florida Keys are filled with adventure. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, the Florida Keys are the perfect destination.

When visiting the Florida Keys, there are some activities you won't want to miss. Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities in the area. With crystal clear waters and an array of colorful fish and coral, the Florida Keys are a diver's paradise. There are plenty of charters available to take you out on the water, or you can rent your own equipment and explore on your own.

Kayaking is another popular activity in the Florida Keys. With numerous mangrove islands, the waters of the Keys are ideal for exploring by kayak. From paddling through the mangroves to spotting dolphins and manatees, kayaking in the Florida Keys is an experience you won't soon forget.

Fishing is also a popular activity in the Florida Keys. With its abundance of fish, the Florida Keys is a great place to cast a line. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, you'll find plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish. From redfish to snapper, there's something for everyone.

In addition to these activities, the Florida Keys also offer plenty of opportunities for bird watching. With its vast wetlands, the Keys are home to a variety of birds, including pelicans, ibis, and herons. Bird watching is a great way to explore the area and discover some of its hidden gems.

When it comes to the Florida Keys, there's something for everyone. From snorkeling and scuba diving to kayaking and fishing, the Florida Keys offer an array of activities for visitors. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, the Florida Keys have something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the Florida Keys for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

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Apalachicola National Forest

Apalachicola
Source: Visit Tallahassee

The Apalachicola National Forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystem of the forest, as well as take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. With its miles of trails, visitors can discover the hidden beauty of the forest, from the majestic pine forests to the crystal-clear rivers.

If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, consider joining the Apalachicola National Forest’s Ranger-led hikes. Rangers will guide visitors through the forest, providing insight into the history and ecology of the area. Visitors can also join ranger-led canoe trips, which offer a great way to explore the area and learn more about the local wildlife.

For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the Apalachicola National Forest also offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. Bird-watchers can spot a variety of bird species in the area, including bald eagles, ospreys, and pileated woodpeckers. Other wildlife species that can be seen in the forest include deer, black bears, and alligators.

If you’re looking for a unique adventure, consider visiting the Apalachicola National Forest in the summertime. The area is home to a variety of summer festivals, such as the Apalachicola Heritage Festival and the Apalachicola Riverfest. These events offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the area’s rich history and culture, as well as enjoy live music and art.

No matter what type of outdoor experience you’re looking for, the Apalachicola National Forest of Outdoor Florida is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. From its breathtaking views to its abundant wildlife, the Apalachicola National Forest is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the Apalachicola National Forest for an outdoor adventure you won’t soon forget.

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Wakulla Springs State Park

Wakulla
Source: Visit Tallahassee

The park's crystal clear waters are home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and a variety of fish and bird species. Visitors can take a boat tour of the springs and learn about the area's unique ecosystems, or take a dip in the spring's cool waters. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails, picnic spots, and a boardwalk for visitors to explore.

For those looking for a little more adventure, Wakulla Springs State Park has a variety of activities and attractions to explore. Visitors can take part in the park's annual fishing tournament, or take a guided canoe tour of the spring. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities, and the park has several rental companies available for visitors to take advantage of. Additionally, the park holds regular events, such as the Wakulla Springs Wildlife Festival and the Wakulla Springs Festival of Lights.

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Clearwater Beach

Clearwater
Source: Forbes

For those seeking a relaxing beach vacation, Clearwater Beach has miles of soft, white sand, crystal clear waters, and picturesque sunsets. Visitors can spend their days lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the calming sound of the waves. Or, they can take a dip in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and explore the variety of sea life that resides there. There are plenty of water activities to choose from like fishing, kayaking, parasailing, and boat rides.

For the more adventurous traveler, Clearwater Beach of Outdoor Florida offers plenty of opportunities for thrill seekers. The area is home to a wide variety of activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and parasailing. There are also plenty of beach sports like volleyball and beach football. For those looking for something a little more daring, there are several nearby water parks and amusement parks.

No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, Clearwater Beach of Outdoor Florida has something for everyone. With the beautiful beaches and numerous activities, it is a great destination for a fun-filled beach vacation. Be sure to check out the nearby attractions and take advantage of all that Clearwater Beach has to offer.

For those looking for a unique experience, Clearwater Beach of Outdoor Florida also offers a variety of educational and cultural experiences. Visitors can take part in a variety of workshops and classes, explore the history of the area, and meet local artists. There are also a number of festivals and events throughout the year to celebrate the culture of the area.

No matter what type of adventure you seek, Clearwater Beach of Outdoor Florida has something for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse activities, it is the perfect destination for a memorable and enjoyable beach vacation.

Frequently asked questions

Florida has a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy including kayaking, fishing, camping, hiking, bird watching, snorkeling, and swimming.

There are many places to camp in Florida, including state parks, national forests, and public and private campgrounds.

The best time of year for fishing in Florida is typically in the spring and fall, when the weather is cooler and the water is clearer.

Florida is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, alligators, turtles, and a variety of birds.

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4 Comments

KE

Kenneth Rasmussen

I recently visited Florida and I have to say, the outdoor activities there are amazing! One of my favorites was exploring the Everglades. I went on an airboat tour and got to see alligators up close and personal. It was such a unique experience and something I'll never forget. I also enjoyed snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys. The marine life there is so vibrant and colorful. I highly recommend visiting Florida if you love outdoor adventures.
Thank you so much for sharing your amazing experience in Florida! Exploring the Everglades on an airboat tour and getting up close to alligators sounds absolutely thrilling. It's fantastic that you had the opportunity to witness such a unique wildlife encounter. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys must have been breathtaking as well. It's always incredible to see vibrant and colorful marine life up close. Your recommendation to visit Florida for outdoor adventures is greatly appreciated, and I can't wait to experience these activities for myself.
JA

Jan Gibbons

Florida is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts! One of my favorite things to do there is kayaking in the beautiful springs. The water is so clear and refreshing, and you might even spot some manatees or dolphins. Another activity I enjoyed was cycling along the many scenic trails in the state. The weather is usually perfect for a bike ride, and you'll get to see some stunning views along the way. Florida definitely has no shortage of outdoor things to do, and I can't wait to go back and explore more.
Thank you for sharing your love for outdoor activities in Florida! I agree, kayaking in the clear springs sounds amazing. I've always wanted to see manatees and dolphins up close, so that's definitely going on my bucket list. Cycling along scenic trails sounds like a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather and take in the stunning views. I'm so glad to hear that Florida has so much to offer for outdoor enthusiasts like us. I can't wait to plan my next trip and explore even more of this amazing state!

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