Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun in Florida

Get ready to swap your winter worries for sunscreen and sandals because it's time for our ultimate list of things to do in Florida in summer. The good old Sunshine State is calling, and we're here to guide you through the endless possibilities of summer fun. Whether you're a thrill-seeker craving roller coasters, a beach bum hunting for the perfect wave, or a nature lover eager to explore the mangroves by kayak, Florida has it all. Dive into our ultimate guide and discover how to make the most of your summer in the land of perpetual sunshine and unforgettable memories. Let's make this summer one for the books!

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Florida

As far as Florida activities go, there will be no shortage when you plan your summer vacation. We've curated a list of the best summer vacation destinations in Florida. Looking for that ultimate hidden gem beach? How about the all-inclusive resort where you can really unwind? From family-friendly to romantic things to do, we've got you covered with some of the best of the best. Check out our Ultimate Road Trip Guide if you drive to these destinations!

1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Location: Key Largo, FL

Popularity: Very popular during the summer.

Need To Know: Snorkeling reservations are required.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located in Key Largo, Florida, is a stunning summer destination known for its rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs. Established in 1963, it was the first undersea park in the United States, covering approximately 70 nautical square miles of the Atlantic Ocean waters. Visitors can explore the underwater world, teeming with colorful corals, tropical fish, and other marine creatures.

2. Historic St. Augustine

Location: St. Augustine, FL

Popularity: Very popular during summer and during the Christmas season.

Need To Know: Free to visit, but various attractions will be ticketed.

Visiting Historic St. Augustine is like stepping back in time to experience America's oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is brimming with historical landmarks, charming streets, and cultural treasures. A few notable attractions during your visit include Castillo de San Marcos, Colonial Quarter, and Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.

3. NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Location: Merritt Island, FL

Popularity: Very popular on weekends and in the summer.

Need To Know: Cost to enter varies.

Exploring the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral is an awe-inspiring experience, especially during the summer months. Explore interactive exhibits, witness actual spacecraft, and learn about NASA's space missions. Highlights include the Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Apollo/Saturn V Center, and the Astronaut Encounter. Perfect for space enthusiasts and families, the center offers a fascinating glimpse into America's space exploration history and future.

Best Beaches To Visit In Florida This Summer

Sun, sand, and surf await you in the Sunshine State! Florida's coastline is dotted with some of the world's most beautiful and diverse beaches, perfect for your summer getaway. Looking for vibrant boardwalks? How about some serene natural landscapes, or crystal-clear waters? We've got you covered. Dive into our list of the best beaches in Florida this summer and find your perfect slice of paradise. Grab your sunglasses and flip-flops—it's time to hit the beach!

4. Grayton Beach State Park

Location: Santa Rosa, FL

Popularity: Very popular during summer.

Need To Know: The park can get very crowded, especially during the summertime.

Grayton Beach State Park in the summertime is a coastal paradise in Florida. Skip the overcrowded beaches and head to his gem, with its pristine white sand and emerald green waters. Explore scenic hiking trails through dunes and coastal forests, or enjoy fishing and kayaking on Western Lake. Its natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect summer getaway in Florida for nature lovers.

5. Blind Pass Beach

Location: Sanibel Island, FL

Popularity: Moderately popular

Need To Know: A hidden gem for seashell hunting!

Blind Pass Beach offers a serene escape on Florida's Gulf Coast during the summer. Known for its excellent shelling, the beach is a collector's treasure trove. Enjoy sunbathing on soft sands, swimming in clear waters, and picturesque sunsets. The natural, unspoiled environment makes it ideal for relaxing and reconnecting with nature amidst stunning coastal beauty.

6. New Smyrna Beach

Location: New Smyrna, FL

Popularity: Very popular on weekends and in the summer.

Need To Know: Beach prices range from free to fees, depending on whether you bring a car.

My favorite time to visit New Smyrna Beach is during fall, when the crowds clear out and the beaches are empty and free to roam on. But that doesn’t mean summer disappoints. Visiting New Smyrna Beach in the summer promises endless seaside fun in the Atlantic Ocean. Its wide, sandy shores and rolling waves make it perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Explore charming shops and eateries along Flagler Avenue, or stroll on the boardwalk. With its laid-back atmosphere and warm waters, it's an ideal destination for a summer getaway.

Parks To Visit In Florida This Summer

There is nothing more family-friendly during the summertime than visiting a nearby park. Florida has so many incredible state parks that are the perfect family things to do in Florida in summer. Whether you're a camping enthusiast looking to get out into nature or you want to hike the trails and see some wildlife, these summer parks have it all and more.

7. Everglades National Park

Location: Florida City and Everglades City, Florida

Popularity: Very popular during summer and on weekends

Need To Know: Will need to pay National Park fees.

Summertime in Everglades National Park opens up a slew of adventures and activities for visitors of all ages. Experience the unique ecosystem of the Everglades, with its vast wetlands, mangrove forests, and diverse wildlife. Summer offers opportunities for airboat tours, wildlife viewing, and hiking along scenic trails. My personal favorite activity is bike riding through Shark Valley—although it can get very hot, so be sure to bring enough water.

8. Wekiwa Springs State Park

Location: Apopka, FL

Popularity: Moderately popular and it can get crowded on weekends

Need To Know: Fees to enter vary.

What better way to find some reprieve from the summer heat than with a dip in a natural spring? At Wekiwa Springs State Park, guests can head to the Orlando area to beat the summer heat. Take a refreshing dip in the calm spring waters, paddle along the Wekiva River, or hike through the shaded forest trails. It's an excellent spot for outdoor recreation and relaxation. It’s also perfect for a family weekend adventure!

9. Biscayne National Park

Location: Biscayne Bay, FL

Popularity: Very popular on weekends and in the summer.

Need To Know: Will need to pay National Park fees.

One of the coolest national parks in Florida is Biscayne National Park. In comparison, visitors to Miami can have direct access to this natural wonderland. Discover the underwater wonders of Biscayne Bay by snorkeling, diving, and going on boat tours. This park near Miami offers opportunities to explore coral reefs, mangrove forests, and historic shipwrecks, providing a unique marine adventure.

Best Free Summer Activities

Just when you thought there weren't any free things to do in Florida in summer... we have a handful! Free and cheap things to do in Florida during the warmer months are my favorite, because nobody wants to spend an arm and a leg seeking out fun in the sun, right? Please take a look at a few of our favorite warm-weather activities that won't break the bank.

10. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Location: Naples, FL

Popularity: Very popular on weekends

Need To Know: Bring bug spray when visiting during summer.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary located near Naples, Florida, is a pristine wilderness preserve spanning over 13,000 acres of diverse habitats, including wetlands, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks. Visitors can explore a 2.25-mile boardwalk winding through the heart of the sanctuary, offering opportunities to observe alligators, wading birds, and elusive species like the Florida panther. It's a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

11. Harry P. Leu Gardens

Location: Orlando, FL

Popularity: Moderately popular, but can get crowded on weekends.

Need To Know: The first Monday of the month is free.

Harry P. Leu Gardens located in Orlando, is a stunning botanical oasis spanning 50 acres. Visitors can stroll through lush gardens featuring over 40 plant collections, including camellias, roses, and tropical plants. Highlights include the historic Leu House Museum, showcasing Florida's rich botanical history, and the Butterfly Garden, attracting colorful fluttering visitors. This is one of the most beautiful gardens in Florida.

12. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Location: Key West, FL

Popularity: Thus place is still a hidden gem.

Need To Know: This discovery center is open Wednesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is situated in Key West, Florida, and offers a fun and informative way to get to know the area. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits highlighting the diverse marine life, coral reefs, and mangrove forests of the area. Discover the importance of conservation efforts and learn about ongoing research projects. With engaging displays, educational programs, and stunning underwater footage, it's a must-visit destination for nature lovers, environmental enthusiasts, and those seeking family-friendly summer activities in Florida.

Best Summer Events And Festivals In Florida

Get ready to experience the best of Florida's summer spirit with a lineup of vibrant events and festivals! From lively music festivals and dazzling fireworks displays to food fests and cultural celebrations, the Sunshine State offers something for everyone.

13. Key Lime Pie Festival

Location: Key West, FL

Popularity: Moderately popular

Need To Know: Usually takes place in June or July every summer.

The annual Key Lime Pie Festival in Key West is a delectable celebration of Florida's iconic dessert. This lively event features everything key lime, from traditional pies to creative variations. Visitors can sample key lime treats, watch pie-making contests, and participate in fun activities like pie-eating contests and cooking demonstrations. Live music, local artisans, and scenic waterfront views add to this Florida summer festival's atmosphere, making it a sweet and unforgettable experience for all. Visit the Space Coast Key Lime Pie Festival website for location, schedule, and admission fee information.

14. EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

Location: Orlando, FL

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: Takes place over the course of a few months. Tickets are required.

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando is a culinary extravaganza celebrating global flavors. Running from late summer to early fall, the festival features food and beverage offerings from around the world, along with cooking demonstrations, celebrity chef appearances, and live entertainment. Guests can indulge in gourmet dishes, fine wines, and craft beers while exploring the diverse marketplace booths throughout the park, creating a deliciously memorable experience. Visit the Disney World website for this year's event dates.

15. Hemingway Days

Location: Key West, FL

Popularity: Moderately popular

Need To Know: Takes place for several days around July 21, the author’s birthday.

Hemingway Days Festival in Key West is an annual literary festival honoring the legacy of renowned author Ernest Hemingway. This week-long event in July features literary competitions, book signings, and scholarly presentations celebrating Hemingway's life and works. The festival's highlight is the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, where bearded contestants channel the spirit of the legendary writer. With marquee events, live music, and island charm, it celebrates literature and culture like no other. It's one of the most unique summer festivals in Florida! Head to the Key West Tourist website for this year's dates.

What do you think about this list of things to do in Florida in summer? Is there more you'd like to add? Please let us know through our nomination page.