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The 10 best things to do in Florida for spring break are more than just sunbathing and swimming. From pristine beaches to vibrant cityscapes, Florida offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation perfect for all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re exploring the art-filled streets of Miami, paddling through crystal-clear springs, or discovering historic gems in St. Augustine, there’s something exciting at every turn. Spring weather is ideal for outdoor exploration, and the state’s diverse experiences cater to families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Dive into this curated list and uncover how to make the most of your Florida spring getaway!
10 Fun Things To Do In Florida For Spring Break
Experience the best of pleasant weather and incredible activities with our detailed list of the 10 things to do in Florida for spring break:
1. Catch A Wave At Cocoa Beach
Photo: Leonard J. DeFrancisci / Wikimedia Commons
Catching a wave at Cocoa Beach is one of the best things to do in Florida for spring break. Known as the “Surf Capital of the East Coast,” Cocoa Beach is a great place for novice and intermediate surfers. Lessons typically include safety briefings and local surf etiquette. Certified instructors from schools like Ron Jon Surf School offer private or small-group sessions. Local surf camps during spring break often take students to nearby breaks like Sebastian Inlet. Gear can be rented from surf shops, including the iconic Ron Jon store, which also houses the Florida Surf Museum.
Location: Cocoa Beach, south of Cape Canaveral
Nearest Railway Station: Cocoa Station (Amtrak & Tri-Rail via transfer)
2. Float Through Paradise At Ichetucknee Springs
Photo: Matthew J Harris / Wikimedia Commons
The springs hold a constant, refreshingly cool 72°F temperature—perfect for tubing and canoeing on hot spring days. Access is via the south entrance off US‑27, where tram service and equipment rentals are available. Permit limits cap daily visitors at around 3,000 to preserve tranquillity—reserve ahead for popular weeks. Launch at Dampier’s Landing and paddle a three‑mile course through shady river bends. Be ready with paddles to steer around submerged vegetation; tie your tubes in a flotilla with bungee cords.
Location: Ichetucknee Springs State Park, North‑Central Florida
Nearest Railway Station: Clearwater Station (Amtrak)
3. Paddle With The Past In St. Augustine’s Harbour
Photo: Eric Prouzet / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Cruise by famous buildings from the 17th century, such as Castillo de San Marcos, and the Bridge of Lions. Sightings of local wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles are common in the harbour. Guided tours often include history lessons on Spanish colonists, British rule, and maritime trade. Evening tours offer golden-light photo opportunities and calmer water. Bring a waterproof camera—you’ll want shots of old fort walls from a unique vantage point.
Location: Launch at Vilano Boat Ramp in St. Augustine
Nearest Railway Station: Jacksonville Amtrak
4. Ride Through Time On St. Augustine’s Iconic Trolley
Photo: Cullen328 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hop aboard the hop-on/hop-off trolley for a scenic circuit of St. Augustine’s highlights. Audio narration brings to life centuries of colonial spice, pirate tales, and architectural gems. The trolley runs frequent loops, allowing you to explore historic districts at leisure. These districts are among the most beautiful things to see in Florida for spring break. Tickets often include free entry or discounts to museums along the route. Routes cover the Lightner Museum, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, and Market Square. Trolleys are wheelchair and differently‑abled accessible, with priority seating and low-floor boarding.
Location: Downtown St. Augustine
Nearest Railway Station: Jacksonville Amtrak (~40 min drive)
5. Walk The Footsteps Of History In St. Augustine
Photo: Bwickliffe / Wikimedia Commons
Wander cobbled streets to heritage sites like González–Álvarez House and Ximenez-Fatio Boarding House. Discover period furnishings, heirloom textiles, and architectural designs from the 18th and 19th centuries. Guided tours often include personal stories of colonial residents and their daily lives. The self‑guided Heritage Trail helps you pace your walk and locate historical markers. Heritage site visits usually take 30–45 minutes each; plan for 2–3 hours total.
Location: Historic downtown St. Augustine
Nearest Railway Station: Jacksonville Amtrak
6. Step Into A Spanish Palace At Villa Zorayda
Photo: OliviaBM123 / Wikimedia Commons
Villa Zorayda offers a Moorish‑Revival journey filled with ornate archways, mosaics, and private collections. Interior rooms display medieval European furniture, art glass, and antiques from 1883. Audio guides offer commentary on architect Franklin Smith’s Spanish inspiration. A rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of historic downtown and the bay. Regular torchlight tours reveal hidden architectural details under golden hues. Special seasonal events—like evening concerts—are held in the courtyard. Allow one hour for a full exploration of the house and its gardens.
Location: 83 King Street, St. Augustine
Nearest Railway Station: Jacksonville Amtrak
7. Climb The Cape Florida Lighthouse By The Sea
Coastal lovers planning what to do in Florida for spring break can consider a stop at the Cape Florida Lighthouse. Wander up the 109‑step stairway to the lighthouse’s lantern room—360-degree views await. The path is shaded by mangrove trees and native tropical flora—ideal for a scenic stroll. Interpretive panels detail the beacon’s role during the Underground Railroad. Park rangers often offer mid-morning guided tours, explaining maritime and natural history. Coastal winds provide a refreshing breeze atop the lighthouse.
Location: South end of Key Biscayne, Miami‑Dade County
Nearest Railway Station: Coconut Grove
8. Glide Through Glowing Waters In A Nighttime Kayak
Photo: Judy Gallagher / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Experience the magic of bioluminescent dinoflagellates lighting up your kayak’s wake near Titusville and Cocoa Beach. Tours typically launch after dusk to maximise visibility. Guides demonstrate how to safely interact without disturbing marine life. Nighttime paddle routes take you beneath starlit skies—no harsh lights permitted. A thermos of hot tea or cocoa in a dry bag adds extra charm. Expect paddling for 1.5 to 2 hours, with stops to play with glowing water.
Location: Cocoa Beach / Titusville waterways.
Nearest Railway Station: Cocoa Station (via transfer)
9. Discover Secret Waterways In A Maze Of Coastal Mangroves
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Kayak into the Matanzas River’s slender mangrove tunnels, where ferns hanging overhead create a verdant cathedral. Guided tours highlight local ecology—Florida’s mangrove species, oysters, and birds. Morning paddles offer the chance to spot herons, egrets, and juvenile fish. Stories of Smuggler’s Cove and shipwrecks are also told during tours. Guides carry binoculars and field guides for wildlife spotting. Water tends to be calm, but a paddle assist helps manoeuvre roots.
Location: San Sebastian / Matanzas river area
Nearest Railway Station: Jacksonville Amtrak
10. Chase Florida’s Clearest Waters On A Springs Road Trip
Photo: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons
Start in Tampa Bay and follow a scenic loop through springs like Rainbow, Ichetucknee, and Manatee Springs—each with boardwalks, picnic spots, and canoe options. The route totals around 200 miles—ideal for a two‑day excursion with overnight stops. Swim in crystal pools that reach depths of 20+ ft, perfect for snorkelling. Several parks allow camping or day‑float permits—reserve ahead for popular weekends. Keep a lookout for wildlife—turtle basking sites and otter sightings are common.
Location: From Tampa Bay, head north via Merritt’s Mill, Wacissa, Cypress Springs, Econfina, and Manatee Springs.
Nearest Railway Station: NA
From sun-soaked beaches to glowing night-time kayak tours, the list of things to do in Florida for spring break is as vibrant as the state itself. Whether you’re exploring historic cities like St. Augustine or diving into crystal-clear springs, every corner offers a unique adventure. With endless sunshine, natural wonders, and cultural gems, Florida is the perfect place to make your spring break unforgettable. Plan a trip with TripXL today!
Cover Photo: Brendon Spring / Pexels
