The state of Florida is perfect to visit year-round. With pleasant weather, most of the time, it’s a great place to get out into the water and have some fun. So whether you’re a tourist or a local looking for something exciting to do, here are some water activities in Florida that are worth your time.
Snorkeling
One of the must do water activities in Florida is snorkeling. Florida has quite a bit of good snorkeling spots, from the clear waters of North Florida, all the way down to the coral reefs in the Florida Keys, there’s a lot to see under the water.
I definitely recommend visiting the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the U.S located in Key Largo, as they offer snorkeling tours in crystal clear waters. You’re bound to see a variety of fish including barracudas, eels, mackerels, and more.
The park also features the famous underwater Christ of the Abyss statue of Jesus, which is a replica of the original which is located in the Mediterranean Sea. Definitely an attraction worth seeing if you have the chance.
Flyboarding
If you’re into extreme water sports, Flyboarding will be right up your alley, and it will take you to new heights, literally. You attach your feet to a device that propels out water allowing you to go up to 40 feet in the air or dive beneath the water’s surface. It almost feels like using a hoverboard on water and it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience worth trying.
Parasailing
Enjoy seeing the beautiful beaches and coastline from high above. Parasailing is another must-do activity in Florida and it doesn’t require any athletic ability. Just be sure that you’re not afraid of heights. Try it solo or with a friend or companion. Wind conditions do determine if the activity will be permitted or not, so make sure to check the forecast ahead of time.
Tubing
Tubing is another extreme water sport that you need to try. It is definitely very thrilling (or at least the one I did was). How it works is that there is a tube/chair floatie that you’re supposed to sit on and it is tied to a boat via a rope. The boat pulls the tube and drags you over the water. Be prepared to get wet as you’ll get splashed going over the waves or if you end up falling off into the water.
Shipwreck Diving
Believe it or not, the Florida Keys offers some of the best and more unique shipwreck dives in the world. This is one of the water activities in Florida that you can’t skip. The Florida Keys has hundreds of shipwrecks around it and you can take diving tours to see them. Take the Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail and see up to nine historic submerged shipwrecks. Please note, some dives are easy to do while others may require diving experience.
Paddle Boarding
Paddleboarding is a great way to get out, enjoy and explore the water. You stand on a board that resembles a surfboard and with a paddle, glide along the water’s surface. You can either take tours or go out on your own. Going on a tour with a guide will allow you to spot some marine life such as jellyfish, crabs, and a variety of fish.
Speed Boating
Miami, Florida is the place you want to try speed boating. You can hop on a tour and get an informational look at the city and skyline. You’ll even get to see multi-million dollar mansions and celebrity homes that are along the coastline.
Kayaking in Clear Kayaks
Have you ever kayaked in clear kayaks? If not, you definitely need to. You’ll have the chance to kayak through Florida’s crystal clear waters and see fish swimming with you underneath your kayak.
During certain times of the year, you can also go on Bioluminesce tours in the clear kayaks where microorganisms glow in the water and you can witness the phenomenon up close.
Banana Boat Rides
Panama City Beach in Florida offers inflatable Banana boat rides for all. Zoom across the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and indulge in a thrilling experience to remember. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot day and have an adventure with the entire family.
Water Skiing
If you’re looking for some thrilling water activities in Florida, consider Water Skiing. You attach your feet to some water skis and then are pulled by a boat and glide over the surface of the water. It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon and cool off.
