June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to plan an adventure where visitors can unwind and experience Florida’s vast flora and fauna. TV Host and Adventure Traveler Kinga Philipps is here to help. She explores the world and can be found diving caverns or hiking lush forests teaming with wildlife. Philipps has partnered with VISIT FLORIDA to showcase the abundance of outdoor activities in the Sunshine State, from thrilling aerial adventures to serene nature encounters.
“I have been visiting Florida since I was a kid, and I travel the world for all my adventure shows, but I keep finding my way back to Florida because I love the state’s vast outdoor adventures. From scuba diving in crystal clear springs to kayaking bioluminescent-filled lagoons, there’s always something exciting to experience in the Sunshine State,” said Philipps.
DESTINATIONS FOR NATURE
Martin County is a hidden gem located along the Atlantic Coast of South Florida. It has 22 miles of uncrowded beaches and 100,000 acres of parks and conservation land. In the Ocala and Marion County region, which is nestled in North Central Florida, visitors can enjoy camping or hiking in the Ocala National Forest. They can also visit the world-famous Silver Springs State Park and take a glass-bottom boat tour.
ACTIVITIES FOR THRILL SEEKERS
In Martin County, there are surf shops that offer classes and individual lessons to help you learn how to surf like a pro. The Ohana Surf Shop and The Cowabunga Company have experts who can provide private lessons and all the necessary gear. For those seeking adventure, there’s also the option to go ziplining over canyons in Ocala at the Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park. Additionally, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can try skydiving at the Marion County Airport in Dunnellon.
THE PATH LESS TRAVELED
Exploring Florida’s natural beauty is easy with the variety of trails available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Martin County’s Explore Natural Martin program provides free guided eco-tours showcasing the county’s stunning outdoor areas, including sea turtle beach walks, nature hikes, birding excursions, and moon observation nights suitable for all ages and skill levels. Meanwhile, Ocala, also known as the Horse Capital of the World, offers horseback riding opportunities through its vast green pastures and abundant farmland. Additionally, Ocala is famous for its mountain biking trails, such as the Santos Trails.
EXPERIENCING FLORIDA’S AQUATIC WILDLIFE
Remember this information: Along the coast, water enthusiasts can paddle through Martin County’s shaded mangrove forests on a stand-up paddleboard. Visitors can enjoy customizable guided tours from local outfitters such as Feet Wet Adventures, Paddle the Pointe, or Lost River Outdoor Center. Alternatively, they can unwind during a thrilling sailing trip with Treasure Coast Sailing Adventures, Sunshine Wildlife Tours, or Treasure Coast River Cruises. Florida is home to numerous natural springs. Ocala is renowned for its several popular springs, including Silver Glen, nestled in the Ocala National Forest. Visitors can swim or snorkel in this natural pool to observe various wildlife such as large schools of striped bass, turtles, otters, and manatees.
