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The only region in the continental US with a tropical climate, South Florida is a beacon for holidaymakers all year round.
Are you planning a vacation in the Sunshine State this year? Be sure to try some of the activities below in our list of the best things to do in South Florida. There’s something for everyone here, for a fun-filled vacation from beginning to end.
1. See Miami From The Sky
Start your South Florida vacation on a high note. Even if this is not your first time in Miami, you can still find new things to discover. And this is a great way to start. See the city of Miami from a different perspective on a city skyline tour of Miami.
Fly over Florida’s crystal waters and view Miami in a way you never have before, from the air. While your pilot provides you with live commentary about the area below, you may even spot a dolphin or two
The skyline tour lasts an hour, and a hotel pick-up and drop-off service are available, at an extra charge.
2. Coast Along with The Keys
The best way to explore South Florida is from the water. Discover the beauty of the Florida Keys with your South Florida boat rental.
Whether you have experience piloting a boat or not, you can enjoy your very own boating adventure. Choose between a variety of vessels and the option of a skipper or a bareboat charter.
Prices will vary depending on these factors, as well as the duration of your charter. But you can rent a catamaran for as little as $1770 per day, or a motorboat for about $2000 per day. Several yachts are also available.
So hire a boat to create your very own private tour of South Florida, and enjoy all your favorite watersports in comfort and privacy. Or simply relax and soak up the sun, breathe in the fresh air, and take a sensational selfie out on the waters.
3. Navigate Through The Nightclubs
Are you single and ready to mingle? Miami has some epic nightclubs for you to dance to the night away.
E11EVEN, a 24-hour nightclub that offers fantastic music, food, and drinks is a top choice for a night of dining and dancing. Or experience the awesome party atmosphere with the crowd at LIV, located near Miami Beach.
Prefer a more laid-back retro vibe? Then 1306 in downtown Miami is the place to go. Pop in for a cool beer, a fine glass of wine, or a classic cocktail in the courtyard with friends.
Suggested Read: Best things to do in Miami
Not into the nightclub scene? No problem. Laugh away all your stress and have loads of fun at one of the comedy bars. Enjoy karaoke, stand-up comedy acts, games and improv at The Villain Theater. Located at 5865 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami.
There’s always something fun on at this charming little theater, and popcorn, beverages, and cocktails are for sale before the shows. This establishment is LGBTQ friendly and is guaranteed to liven your spirits. They offer three nights of shows per week, as well as monthly drag shows and concerts.
Prices depend on the show but are very affordable. Free parking is available.
4. Have A Wild Encounter In The Everglades
Had enough of the nightlife? Then switch to the wildlife. Encounter the wild side of southern Florida with an Everglades airboat tour and alligator encounter.
Just 30 minutes drive from Orlando, this wilderness will amaze you with its swamps, marshes, and wildlife. Ride on an airboat will and spot wild animals such as alligators, golden eagles, and egrets.
A guide will provide you with exciting info about the natural surroundings while you try to spot a gator. But don’t be afraid, you’ll be perfectly safe despite the adrenaline rush.
Transport is included, and the package also includes admission to the Wild Florida Wildlife Park. Options include an Airboat Safari Ride for 30 minutes, or an extended 1- hour Ultimate Airboat ride tour.
5. Explore The Jungle
A jungle adventure awaits you on Jungle Island.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is a must-see. Jungle Island, formerly called Parrot Jungle, is an eco-adventure park on Watson Island. Explore 18 acres of lush tropical jungle, see exotic animals and birds from around the world, and experience the thrill of the live animal shows.
The park also features waterslides, an outdoor wind tunnel flight experience, zip lines, escape rooms, and several other attractions for the whole family to enjoy.
Also Read: Things to Do in Orlando
Find them at 1111 parrot Jungle Trail, Miami. Open year-round, Monday-Sunday from 08:30 am-03:00 pm. Jungle Island also has event hosting facilities and is one of South Florida’s premier outdoor locations for weddings.
6. Head To Hollywood Beach
Of course, no visit to the region would be complete without a trip to the beach. When not any old beach will do, act like a star and head to Hollywood Beach. This Florida beach town has charmed visitors since the 1920s.
The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is a brick-paved oceanfront promenade stretching for nearly two and a half miles along the Atlantic Ocean. This is a hotspot for joggers, cyclists, and roller-bladers and there are two play parks designated for kids.
Work on your tan and enjoy the sunshine. Then sit down for a good lunch and do some people-watching from one of the restaurants or cafés just steps from the sandy beach.
7. Scuba Around A Coral Reef
If you prefer some structure to an underwater experience, many tours are available to introduce you to the wonders under the waters.
An absolute must for your holiday itinerary is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, an underwater park in Key Largo. First established in 1963, the park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
View the spectacular coral reefs from a glass-bottomed boat, or go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore them up close. Other activities include canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and swimming.
Afterward, enjoy a packed lunch in the picnic area and take a look inside the visitor center. It features a 30,000-US-gallon saltwater aquarium as well as six smaller aquariums, and a theater where the kids can be entertained by nature films.
8. Wander through The Wolfsonian
After all that outdoor activity, you may be seeking a thrilling adventure of a different kind.
Are you a fan of architecture, art, and design? The Wolfsonian–Florida International University is situated at 1001 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, in the midst of the famous Art Deco district.
Their museum showcases a collection of more than 180 000 objects celebrating the power of art and design. Learn more through their tours, workshops, lectures, and films.
Afterward, treat yourself to a steaming good cup of coffee at the coffee bar. Before you leave, pick up some gifts for friends and family from the design store/gift shop.
Florida residents, disabled persons with accompanying caregivers, as well as children under 6, enjoy free admission. For all others, the cost of admission is $12 for adults, and $8 for seniors, students with ID, and children aged 6-18. The museum is open from 10 am -6 pm, and is free on Fridays.