Florida summers are hot — but these unexpected adventures are seriously cool
“What did you do this summer?” If you don’t want to respond with the typical beach days and theme parks answer (though we’re not knocking those), break out of the ordinary with some epic Florida adventures. Watch a sea turtle take its first steps to the water. Snorkel a new artificial reef where mermaids stand guard. Zoom off on a celestial boat ride with an astronomer. Or simply cool off in a Florida spring, or drink pink in an adorable hotel cabana.
Drink Pink In A Chic Cabana, Downtown Miami
If summer vacation conjures up memories of long days by a fancy resort pool accompanied by refreshing drinks, you don’t have to sneak into a hotel pool: The InterContinental Miami is opening up its newly transformed rooftop pool deck to non-hotel guests with its Rosé All Day Cabana Experience. Through Labor Day, up to six guests can reserve the Oceanview Plus cabana, which evokes South of France vibes with happy pink cabana stripes. The package comes with pampering amenities like chilled towels and personalized service, and guests can sip from coconuts and share a bottle of rosé prosecco. Hang in the pool, kick back in an oversized lounger, and soak up the rooftop’s bay and ocean views. Price starts at $400.
Set Your Sights On The Stars, Vero Beach
Catering to 2025’s hot “noctourism” travel trend (exploring the world after dark), the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel + Spa is offering an otherworldly summer experience. The resort is partnering with the boat rental company Paddles By The Sea for a “Stargazing On The Sea” boat tour, which is free and open to hotel guests. The celestial journey on a riverboat begins close to sunset — where you’ll first watch for dolphins and catch the glow show. Once it’s dark, train your eyes on the sky as a knowledgeable local astronomer takes out a telescope and points out stars and planets. The program is free for guests, but reservations must be booked 48 hours in advance on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Witness A Turtle Release On The Beach, Juno Beach
Tourists aren’t the only ones flocking to Florida this summer — sea turtles are returning to Florida beaches, with nesting season running from May to September. At Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, there are several ways to experience this natural phenomenon after dark. Book a Turtle Walk to learn about the egg-laying process, and under cover of night, hopefully witness a nesting sea turtle on the beach. The 3-hour program is available Tuesday-Saturday in June and July from 9 p.m. to midnight; ages 10 and older; $40 per person. There’s also the incredible chance to witness a hatchling release, where you’ll watch baby turtles make their tough journey to the ocean (using night-vision technology for the most authentic experience). Available Monday-Sunday in August from 8 to 10 p.m.; ages 10 and up; $40 per person. You will need to register for the experiences at marinelife.org/experiences.
Snorkel A New Reef, Hollywood Beach
Florida’s major flex is its rich marine life that’s teeming underwater. For those who love to snorkel and search for underwater beauty, there’s a new artificial reef off Hollywood Beach. The nonprofit Ocean Rescue Alliance International and the city of Hollywood created Guardians of the Reef and recently sunk sculptural reef modules in about 10 feet of water, which makes it easily accessible for divers and snorkelers. It’s part of the 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef project, and you can expect to see artsy photo-worthy statues of mermaids, mermen, a dive suit, and marine animals like octopi and rays.
Play Out Your Theatrical Dreams, Fort Lauderdale
School may be out for summer, but adults can attend theater school at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a stage star or want to get rid of stage fright, this is your chance to tap into your creative side or refine your talents. Adult classes range from acting to Broadway dance, singing and improv, where you’ll work with theater pros. These classes begin in June, and are very popular, selling out fast.
Cool Off In A Movie-Worthy Florida Spring, Tallahassee
Swimming in a cool Florida spring is almost a rite of passage for locals and tourists during the sweltering summer. For outdoor adventures with an Old Florida feel, head to Wakulla Springs near Tallahassee, one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs that stays at a refreshing 70 degrees. Rimmed by ancient cypress swamps, Wakulla Springs has bragging rights to a cinematic past. You may recognize it as the backdrop for Hollywood classics including “Creature from the Black Lagoon” and “Tarzan’s Secret Treasure.” You can jump off a diving platform and swim in the spring or take a guided riverboat tour where you’ll hunt for wildlife like manatees (mostly in winter season), alligators and birds.
Nostalgia-Inspired Summer Camp, Clearwater Beach
Dreaming about the simplicity of the good old days, from fireside chats to bunk beds? This summer, hotels are leaning into the nostalgia travel trend with special packages and experiences that spark happiness and connection. The Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach launched a summer camp-inspired package, “Sunshine, Sips and S’mores,” which includes welcome amenities like a custom old-school Camp Snap camera (encouraging guests to put down their cellphones) s’mores-flavored popcorn, and summer camp-inspired activities.
While kids will love the deluxe king bunk room, there are a variety of spacious accommodations for families. Seek out the hotel’s “Hidden Beach” pop-up on Fridays and Saturdays from 8-10 p.m. to bond over making gooey s’mores at the fire pits, hit the ice cream pop-up with Ben & Jerry’s on the pool deck every Saturday from noon-5 p.m., or plan your visit around the hotel’s summer concert series featuring local artists on June 14, July 12, and Aug. 9.
