What better way to spend the longest day of the year than soaking up the sun in the beautiful outdoors? The summer solstice is the official summer kick off, which means it’s time to put the screens away and start checking off your summer bucket list.
Related Blog: 10 Fun And Adventurous Ways To Stay Motivated And Reach Your Fitness Goals
The summer solstice is your opportunity to pack your day full of summer’s best activities before the days start getting shorter. To help you make the most of this extended day, we've curated a list of 8 activities that are perfect for kicking off the summer with sun-soaked fun!
#1: Watch the Sunrise and Sunset Over the Horizon
Each second of sunlight counts, so grab your family or friends to witness the longest day of the year from dawn till dusk. Kickstart your day with the most magical sunrise and the longest, dreamiest sunset of the year!
To make the most of your day in the sun, Florida’s beaches offer approximately 1200 miles of beautiful coastline. Pack the coolers, sunscreen, and towels. If you’re planning to spend the full day in the sun, a beach umbrella that you can purchase or rent is a must to give you some protection throughout the day.
Then load up the family and head to any of our beautiful beaches for a shining full day of family time. Spend the day splashing in and out of the water, building sandcastles, looking for shells, and cloud-watching while floating in the water.
If you want to maximize your day in the sun, pack a picnic lunch and some finger foods for later. There’s nothing better than winding up the longest day of the year with your favorite finger foods while watching a beautiful sunset over the horizon.
#2: Start Your Day with Yoga in the Sand
Get ready for a spectacular day in the sun with a rejuvenating yoga session on the beach. The calming sounds of the waves and the soft sand beneath your feet create an ideal setting for relaxation and mindfulness.
Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a beginner, beach yoga is a fun and healthy way to begin the longest day of the year. Not only is it a great way to clear your mind before the day gets into full swing, but also a great way to mark a new season with personal renewal.
If you prefer a guided yoga class there are many local yoga classes available that are celebrating the summer solstice with sunrise classes. Check your local listings to find one near you.
#3: Play Pirate Themed Mini Golf
Adventure style golf is the pinnacle of fun in the sun! At Smugglers Cove, not only can you soak up the sun, but you also get to unleash your inner pirate. Dive into an exhilarating game of mini golf, where each hole presents unique, fun obstacles designed to challenge and delight players of all ages.
Nothing says summer like a pirate themed adventure, some friendly competition, and a refreshing beverage or an ice cream! Since all five Smugglers Cove locations are within minutes of the beach, it’s the perfect addition to your sun-filled day activities!
#4: Beach Volleyball
Beach volleyball is a fantastic way to get active, enjoy the sun, and bond with loved ones. Many beaches have volleyball nets set up, so all you need to bring is a ball and your competitive spirit.
Beach volleyball can be adapted for different skill levels. For younger kids, consider using a softer ball and lowering the net if possible. The key is to keep it fun and inclusive for everyone.
.jpg?width=2400&height=1800&name=moe-mvp-kG8jCWJU2lw-unsplash%20(2).jpg)
#5: Explore Coastal Islands via Boat Rental
Summer is the best time to get out on the water and explore sandbars or secluded beaches only accessible by boat. Escape the crowded beaches to find hidden spots that only the locals would know or just enjoy the breeze as you head across the open waters.
If you don’t already own a boat, many rental services provide various options, from kayaks to motorboats, that cater to different preferences and budgets.
#6: Water Sports Adventure
When you’re spending the day outside in the summer heat, water sports are a must! Kayaking, paddle boarding, tubing, and waterskiing are all perfect for a cool splash under the sun.
Kayaking and paddle boarding are excellent choices for exploring calm waters like lakes and rivers. Tubing and waterskiing are great if you’re on a larger body of water, like a lake, or out on the coast. Many boat or kayak rentals offer lessons and even have guided tours through various water habitats such as the mangroves in Ft Desoto Park or Sarasota. Ft. Myers has a Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour on paddle boards.
#7: Take a Marine-Life Boat Tour
Boat tours provide an educational and exciting experience for the whole family. These tours often include opportunities to see some of Florida’s flourishing sea life in their natural habitats. It’s a wonderful way to learn about marine ecosystems and conservation.
You’ll find tours all along Florida’s vibrant coast, including "Dolphin Quest" where you can learn about dolphins from renowned researchers while watching them play and interact in their natural environment. You might consider a Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve out of John’s Pass which includes an hour ride in the protected bay waters where you can spot dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Marine life tours often include expert guides who share fascinating facts and answer any questions, making it both informative and fun.
#8: Go on a Nature Walk
Nature walks offer a serene escape and a chance to connect with nature. Coastal trails provide stunning views of the ocean, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for activities like shelling and shark tooth hunting.
State parks often have well-maintained trails with varying difficulty levels, making them accessible for families with children. Bring along a nature journal for kids to document their findings. Florida has 175 State Parks and numerous County Parks to explore which offer access to the natural beauty of this area’s native plants, trees, and wildlife.
Make the most of the outdoors on your day of extra sun and fun at Smugglers Cove! Enjoy a fun-filled, pirate themed adventure while playing mini golf and interacting with baby alligators at our live habitat. Visit any of our locations to take advantage of our June special: $1 off your next round! Grab your free coupon and make the most of the longest day of the year!
