From Tallahassee to Miami, Florida boasts a range of adventurous outdoor escapes. Remote landscapes to powdery white beaches and vibrant coral reefs, compliment the quest for culture in Miami and St. Augustine, as well as adventures in wild and untamed landscapes such as the iconic Everglades.
Surrounded by ocean (on one side the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico and on the other the vast Atlantic), for those who visit Florida aquatic adventures are easily found, but what else does America’s Sunshine State have to offer?
Read on for five of Florida’s most adventurous activities.
ADRENALINE HIGHS ON ROLLER COASTER RIDES
While there are already a host of adrenaline highs to be found in Orlando (known as the ‘Theme Park Capital of the World’), the city will soon be home to the tallest roller coaster in the world.
Plan a trip to the Sunshine State in 2016 when the ‘Skyscraper’, a 570-foot metal monster reaching speeds up to 65 mph, is set to open to adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers who dare to ride the rails of this world record breaking roller coaster.
Look out for the best deals on Florida theme park tickets to get your fix of high flying fun.
SCUBA DIVING IN FRESH WATER SPRINGS
There are over 600 natural springs located throughout central and northern Florida, each one offering a unique view of the natural aquifer that runs deep beneath the state.
Scuba divers who are cave certified should head to Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park where almost 33,000 feet of surveyed underwater passages lay in wait. One of the largest underwater cave systems in the United States, there is also an award winning nature trail above ground that follows the twists and turns of the submerged corridors below.
Open Water divers are also able to experience life below the waterline of the alluring sink holes at Peacock Springs. The spacious sink at Orange Grove is a popular spot with recreational divers, however to truly appreciate the wonders of the park divers should consider enrolling in Cavern and Cave Diver training.
SKY DIVING IN MIAMI
Take in the vibrant colours of the Miami area, including Biscayne Bay and the downtown skyline, as you free fall towards the city at speeds of up to 120pmh.
Sound like an adrenaline high you’d like to try? There are a number of licensed operators in the Miami area and all offer you the chance to feel the thrill of flying high.
BACK COUNTRY CAMPING IN THE EVERGLADES
With the help of this Wilderness Trip Planner, go off the grid and explore the unique landscapes of the Everglades.
Spend a few days hiking or biking along the trails that wend their way around the Everglads National Park, and when you’re weary sleep out on the beach or get cosy in a chickee (a raised camping shelter).
BIOLUMINESCENT KAYAKING IN CENTRAL FLORIDA
During the warm summer months central Florida’s Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon come to life at night with the glow of Bioluminescence.
For those in search of a unique encounter with a natural anomaly seldom seen, a kayaking trip after sunset is a must. Every movement within the water ignites a chemical reaction that sends glittering light dancing through the water.
From the vibrations of paddles dipping in and out of the water, to those of manatees and sting rays swimming close by, the world is illuminated with a fairy-tale glow.
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Have you tried any of Florida’s adventurous outdoor activities? Share your comments below!
