Must-Do Outdoor Activities, Available Only in the Sunshine State this Summer

This summer, nature lovers can experience a “hat-trick” of outdoor adventures in Florida. From July through September, the Sunshine State becomes a playground for those looking to forage for bay scallops, kayak in glowing, bioluminescent waters or witness the first steps of baby sea turtles as they begin their journey into the ocean.

The Underwater Treasure Hunt: Scalloping Season

From July 1 through September 24, parts of Florida’s Gulf Coast transform into a vibrant underwater scavenger hunt for bay scallops before taking them to local restaurants and eateries that will help cook them to perfection.

  • Taylor County: Steinhatchee and Keaton Beach offer remote, pristine grassy flats perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
  • Crystal River: Known for its refreshing freshwater springs, this area provides the perfect “cool down” after a day of salty scavenging.
  • What to Expect: Beyond finding scallops, divers frequently encounter starfish, seahorses, and curious local fish, making every dip an exploration of Florida’s diverse marine ecosystem.

Neon Nightscapes: Bioluminescent Kayaking

When the summer sun goes down, Florida’s waterways wake up. Florida’s Indian River Lagoon is considered one of the world’s best places to experience bioluminescence. At the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, travellers can experience the ethereal glow of bioluminescence—light emitted by living organisms that reach peak visibility during the warm summer months when populations of the tiny bioluminescent plankton called marine dinoflagellates are highest (June through September).

  • The Experience: Using clear kayaks, paddlers get a 360-degree view of the neon-blue swirls triggered by every paddle stroke.
  • Nightlife: It isn’t just the water that glows; lucky adventurers may see the shimmering silhouettes of dolphins, manatees, and rays gliding beneath their seats.

The Great Escape: Sea Turtle Hatchlings

Along Florida’s Atlantic coast, a miraculous cycle of life unfolds as Loggerhead, Green and Leatherback hatchlings emerge from their nests.

  • Top Viewing Spots:

○      Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge: The most significant sea turtle nesting site in the Western Hemisphere.

○      Sebastian Inlet State Park: Famous for its ranger guided turtle walks that run from June to July during which participants could see a loggerhead sea turtle lay her eggs, cover her nest and swim back to the ocean.

○      Juno Beach: Home to the renowned Loggerhead Marinelife Center.

  • When to Visit: Late summer – particularly August and September – offers visitors the best opportunity to witness hatchlings making their journey to the ocean, although activity may continue into October.

Whether you are snorkelling for dinner, paddling through liquid light or cheering on a hatchling, Florida offers a summer itinerary that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Florida scalloping season?
Florida’s recreational bay scalloping season generally runs from July through September, with dates varying by county.

Where can you kayak through bioluminescence in Florida?
The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge on Florida’s Space Coast offers one of the world’s most spectacular bioluminescent kayaking experiences during the summer.

Where can you see sea turtle hatchlings in Florida?
Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, Sebastian Inlet State Park and Juno Beach are among Florida’s premier locations for observing sea turtle nesting and hatchling season.

For more information on planning your summer adventure, go to VISITFLORIDA.com.