Top 10 Florida Bucket List Experiences You have to Try!
Welcome to your ultimate Florida bucket list! Here, adventure meets natural beauty. Florida is famous for its culture, weather, beautiful beaches, and exciting activities. You can enjoy Crab Island in Destin or relax on the Florida Keys’ beaches.
From snorkeling with manatees in Crystal River to trying local foods in cities, Florida offers unique experiences.
Let’s start our journey to find the best bucket list activities to do in Florida!
1. Snorkel with Manatees in Crystal River
Snorkeling with manatees in Crystal River is a great idea for a Florida day trip. Here, you can swim with these gentle giants, known as sea cows. The best time is winter when manatees find warm waters here, making your encounter more likely.
Many companies offer manatee tours that are safe and teach about manatees. These tours help you learn about their habitats and protection laws. They make sure you have a good time while respecting the environment.
Want to learn more about these manatee tours?
Check out the most popular 3-Hour Manatee Swim Tour!
2. Drive the Overseas Highway to Key West
The Overseas Highway is a famous scenic drive in Florida. It makes the Key West road trip an adventure you won’t forget.
This road is over 100 miles long and connects the Florida Keys islands. It offers amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
Along the way, you’ll see beautiful landscapes, restaurants, and small coastal towns.
Scenic Highlights Along the Way
The Seven Mile Bridge is a highlight, with views of turquoise waters. It’s perfect for taking photos. Bahia Honda State Park is also a must-see, with its beautiful beaches and trails.
Top Stops to Make on Your Journey
Make sure to visit the towns along the Overseas Highway. Key Largo is great for diving and seeing marine life. Marathon has lots to do, with places like the Turtle Hospital.
Islamorada is known for its quirky shops and art galleries. Don’t forget to try the local seafood. It’s a great way to experience the Keys
.
3. Party at the Original Crab Island in Destin
My favorite memory of Destin, Crab Island is a floating party spot off Destin’s coast. It’s known for its fun vibe, attracting those who love to hang out in a fun atmosphere.
You’ll find drinks, food stalls, and live tunes, making it perfect for beach parties in Florida. No alcohol is served on Crab Island but you can bring your own.
To get to Crab Island, you need a boat or jet ski. Renting one is easy, thanks to local services. Summer is the busiest time, but spring is quieter with nice weather.
We did bring kids with us on our Crab Island stop but I would take them during a slower time during the week instead of the weekend.
The vibe here is friendly, with locals and visitors ready to meet new people. Enjoy the clear emerald-green waters of Destin, Florida.
I recommend doing a boat tour with a Captain because they know the area’s waters well.
Check out the most popular Crab Island Private Boat Tour!
4. Experience Bioluminescent Kayaking in Merritt Island
Bioluminescent kayaking in Merritt Island is a magical night adventure. It draws in those who love to explore the glowing waters. This amazing sight happens when sea creatures light up, making the area glow.
The summer months are the best time to go. The weather is warm, perfect for seeing this wonder.
Guided tours are available for a deeper dive into this experience. They teach you about bioluminescence and how to stay safe at night. Experts will lead you, making sure you see all of Merritt Island safely.
Check out this popular Bioluminescence Tour!
5. Eat Your Way Through a Florida Food Crawl
Florida’s food scene is full of flavors waiting to be tried. A Florida food crawl lets you taste the local dishes that show off the area’s diverse cultures and ingredients. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood to sweet desserts to enjoy.
Must-try Dishes and Local Flavors
When you’re on your food crawl, be sure to try some famous dishes. Start with the fresh seafood, a big hit in coastal areas. For dessert, you can’t miss the key lime pie, a taste of Florida’s tropical side.
Also, don’t skip the Cuban sandwiches in places like Little Havana. And for a taste of the South, try the fried chicken and collard greens.
Best Cities for Food Crawls
Some cities in Florida are known for their great food scenes. Miami is a mix of cultures, as seen in its food, especially in Little Havana. Tampa offers a variety of local dishes, perfect for a food crawl downtown or nearby.
Orlando is growing fast, with everything from food trucks to fancy restaurants. Any of these cities is a great place to start a food crawl. You’ll find some of the best local dishes in Florida.
6. Ride an Airboat in the Everglades
An exciting way to see the Everglades is by taking an airboat ride. These boats move smoothly over the water. You can see wildlife like alligators, reptiles, and birds up close.
These tours are great for families and those who love adventure.
The Everglades is also an awesome place for hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
Check rates on this Everglades Airboat Tour
7. Watch a Rocket Launch from Cape Canaveral
Seeing a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral is an adventure you’re sure to remember. People gather from all over Florida to see these events.
Planning Your Visit for a Launch
To enjoy Cape Canaveral launches, check the official launch schedule early. Websites about rocket launches in Florida offer live updates and alerts. This keeps you up-to-date on the next launch. Here are some tips for a great visit:
- Check launch schedules regularly to get the latest info.
- Find local viewing spots. Some areas are set up just for spectators.
- Check parking options early to avoid last-minute problems.
- Bring snacks, water, and sunscreen, as you’ll be outside for a while.
- In the area, you’ll find many places to eat. Enjoy tasty meals around Cocoa Beach before and after the launch. A visit to the Kennedy Space Center nearby adds to your adventure. It’s also the best place to see the rocket launch!
8. See Wild Dolphins Play in the Gulf
Seeing wild dolphins is a fun experience to enjoy in Florida. The Gulf of Mexico is where you can watch Gulf Dolphins play.
Places like Clearwater Beach and the Florida Keys are great for these tours.
There are many Florida wildlife experiences where you can see dolphins up close. You can go on a boat tour and watch as they leap and swim.
For a closer experience, try a small-group tour. These tours often see more dolphins and let you ask questions. Seeing dolphins in the Gulf is a must-see, whether it’s your first time or not.
Check rates on these 5-Star Dolphin Tours
9. Stay in a Beachfront Bungalow in the Florida Keys
Staying in a beachfront bungalow in the Florida Keys is a memorable experience.
You get direct access to beautiful beaches and stunning views. These bungalows are known for their charm and local feel, found in boutique hotels or vacation rentals.
They offer a cozy atmosphere, making your stay in this sunny paradise even better. Key West, Islamorada, and Marathon have many options for different tastes and budgets.
Choosing the Perfect Location
Choosing the right spot can make your trip better. Each part of the Keys has its own charm and activities:
- Key West: It’s lively, with historic sites and cultural experiences. Enjoy the nightlife and visit places like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Be sure to also see the iconic buoy at the southernmost point!
- Islamorada: It’s great for water sports and has many seafood restaurants. It’s perfect for those who love the water.
- Marathon: It’s good for families, with beautiful beaches and places like the Dolphin Research Center. It’s great for learning about marine life.
When looking for Florida accommodations, pick keys lodging close to attractions. This makes your trip more enjoyable.
When booking a bungalow, look for important amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and outdoor spaces.
These can make your stay more comfortable. Choose a place that lets you enjoy the Keys’ beauty and relax in a cozy spot after exploring.
10. Ride Bikes On Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a paradise for cyclists, with over 25 miles of scenic bike trails that wind through lush landscapes, charming neighborhoods, and waterfront paths.
Unlike most Florida beach towns, Sanibel is refreshingly free of high-rises and heavy traffic, making biking a great way to explore the island.
Pedal your way to J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot alligators, manatees, and hundreds of bird species.
Cruise past colorful beach cottages, stop at Pinocchio’s Ice Cream for a cool treat, or take a break at one of the island’s pristine, shell-covered beaches. Collecting the shells is also another must-do in Sanibel Island!
Biking through Sanibel is an unforgettable way to experience the island. I biked on Sanibel during June which was very fun but it was also very hot. I would recommend doing a bike tour in the cooler and less humid months.
