Staycation 2020: Top Five Staycation Adventures

We’ve rounded up five Florida destinations that offer exciting outdoor activities for your summer getaway.

For those of us who’ve been quarantined since March, a little escape sounds pretty dreamy right now. Whether you yearn for soft sand between your toes, want to lounge by the pool with cocktail in hand, or prefer to venture away from it all, we’ve got a staycation option just for you.

1. FAMILY FUN

Mangrove Pool Waterslide at Naples Grande Beach Resort

Looking for a destination that will keep your children entertained? Head to Naples, where you’ll find options for all ages.

Start the day early and head to one of the area’s family-friendly beaches, such as Lowdermilk Park, which offers full-service amenities and sand volleyball courts for the older kids. If you love nature, you won’t want to miss Clam Pass Park, with its boardwalk that meanders through mangroves, offering an ideal habitat to spot shorebirds and other wildlife. The shallow water has a gentle current so it’s ideal for swimming. End your day with the majestic sunset at Naples Pier, or hop aboard a sunset cruise for a truly unforgettable experience.

Boating options abound in Naples. From open-water fishing expeditions and dolphin watching ecotours to sightseeing on a sailing catamaran, you can’t go wrong. Going to Keewaydin Island is a family favorite – here you can enjoy the crisp ocean air, swim in the clear blue water and go shelling on the beach. Be sure to keep an eye out for playful dolphins on the way back to the marina.

The zoo and botanical garden are two other fun outings to consider. The 170-acre lushly landscaped garden introduces children to a multitude of tropical plants and habitats, and the zoo offers a glimpse at many exotic animals while enjoying the great outdoors. After all this fun in the sun, you may want to just relax in the hotel pool and cool off. You’ve earned it!

Where to Stay: Naples Grande Beach Resort

2. LAID-BACK VIBE

If you’re looking for a change of pace but don’t want to venture too far, the Florida Keys is an ideal option. Perfect for a quick weekend getaway or an entire week of R&R, the Keys offers loads of fun.

Water enthusiasts can enjoy swimming at one of the picture-perfect beaches or take a boat out for a more fast-paced excursion. If you’re keen to explore the boundless marine life, jump in and get up close and personal with tropical fish, sea turtles, stingrays and more. For those who prefer to join a snorkeling tour, head over to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo or Bahia Honda State Park in the Lower Keys. There are also glass-bottom boat ride excursions available that are perfect for all ages. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park is a must-see. Located about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, this 14-acre island is home to the historic Fort Jefferson and vibrant coral reefs.

Bridge fishing is another great pastime that the Keys offers. Some of the best fishing spots include Tom’s Harbor Cut Bridge, Seven Mile Bridge and No Name Key Bridge, where you can reel in grouper, snapper and snook.

And you can’t miss walking, biking or moped riding around Key West. Just be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning sunset views. During the month of July, the sun typically sets just after 8 p.m. (and a few minutes earlier come August).

Where to Stay: Cheeca Lodge, Tranquility Bay, Key Largo Bay Marriott, Hyatt Centric Key West Resort, Marquesa Hotel

3. WILD & WONDERFUL

One of the most beautiful natural treasures here in Florida are the freshwater springs. If you haven’t experienced one of these yet, now’s the time to plan your visit. Most sites and parks have reopened and it’s the perfect way to avoid the crowds.

Crystal River, located north of Tampa, is dotted with natural springs. The area is busiest after November when many people flock there to swim with the manatees. During the summer, you won’t see many manatees, so it’s a lot quieter. Homosassa Springs is another destination for hiking, picnicking, boat tours, and wildlife encounters. Bayshore Boulevard, located in South Tampa, features the world’s longest continuous sidewalk. In case you’re interested in finding out the major points of interest in this area, it might be worth browsing articles on https://yoursouthtampahome.com/ or similar other websites.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park offers pristine conditions for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing and wildlife viewing. There are eight springs that follow the flow of the river, so you’ll be impressed by the clarity of the water. Marvel at the sight of birds, vegetation and marine life all around you. One of the most popular diving springs in Florida, Ginnie Springs is privately owned and known for its camping amenities. Snorkelers and scuba divers will have the experience of a lifetime, while tubers can serenely drift for about an hour down the Santa Fe River.

Where to Stay: Stay overnight at a nearby campground, book a hotel or Airbnb.

4. OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Located in central Florida, Mount Dora is a picturesque small town that offers some seclusion, as well as serene lake views and unique antiquing opportunities.

Take a leisurely walk at Lighthouse Park near downtown Mount Dora, grab a bite to eat at The Goblin Market, and then go on a boat tour on Lake Dora to catch the beautiful sunset. Trimble Park is another lakefront park option where you can go for a peaceful stroll, enjoy birdwatching and catch the sunset views over the water.

One of the most popular events here is Renninger’s Antique and Collector’s Extravaganza, which attracts more than 800 vendors. Although the antique center and flea market is open on the weekends, the Extravaganza takes place only three times during the year (January, February and November).

Where to Stay: Lakeside Inn, Mission Inn Resort & Club, local B&B’s

5. VITAMIN SEA

For a quick beach getaway, you’ll find some prime spots right here in Miami Beach and surrounding areas. After all, we do live where others come to vacation.

A world-class beach destination, Miami Beach offers thrilling adventures and waves of fun. With 15 miles of coastal landscape, you can enjoy a luxury retreat or bask in the sun while taking in the balmy ocean breeze. From South Point Park – where you can stargaze and enjoy 360-degree ocean views – to Sunny Isles Beach – just north of Miami Beach, which boasts two miles of public beaches – the options for sand between your toes and sun-kissed hair are plentiful.

Get in some exercise with an early morning jog along the shore, play beach volleyball with your friends, take part in thrilling watersports adventures, indulge with some refreshing cocktails while working on your tan lines, or simply breathe in the fresh air while strolling on the boardwalk. No matter how you choose to spend your day, you’re guaranteed a great time.

Where to Stay: Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Cadillac Hotel Miami Beach, Eden Roc Miami Beach

by Vanessa Molina Santamaria, bitsandpiecesmedia.com

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Last modified: June 29, 2020