OUTDOOR AND NATURE ESCAPES
Everglades National Park – August falls in the wet season, which brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent conditions for boat, canoe, or airboat tours through marshes and mangroves.
Myakka River State Park (near Sarasota) – Ideal for hiking trails, canopy walkways, birding (e.g., roseate spoonbills), and canoeing.
BEACHES AND COASTAL TOWNS
Clearwater Beach – Famous for white sand, calm waters, dolphin tours, parasailing, jet skis, and “pirate ship” cruises.
Florida’s Forgotten Coast (Panhandle) – Explore charming towns like Apalachicola and St. George Island; enjoy fresh seafood, boat charters, and historical sites
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea – A laid-back mid-century beach village perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Fishermen’s Village TikiFest (Punta Gorda, Aug. 2) – Music, food, art, Caribbean-style festival atmosphere
PFL 10 MMA Finale (Hollywood, Aug. 21) – Catch the Professional Fighters League championship rounds
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (Aug. 28 to Nov. 22) – Culinary tastings, global kiosks, and evening concerts at Walt Disney World
St. Augustine Events – Weekly summer farmers’ markets, First Friday Art Walk, and evening ghost/Old Jail tours
CITY AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Miami Mango Season & Festival – Through early August, enjoy mango-themed dishes, cocktails, and Miami’s annual Mango Festival at Fairchild Garden.
Tampa Bay Region – August usually offers concerts, Broadway shows, family theater, comedy nights, and sports.
Miami – Look for cocktail cruises like Biscayne Bay sunset boat tours and mixology events through early August.
THEME PARKS (WITH PLANNING TIPS)
Orlando’s theme parks—Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND—have extended hours and indoor attractions for escaping heat. Use Genie+, Express Pass, or visit in early morning to beat the crowds and storms.
WEATHER CONSIDERATIONS
August in Florida brings intense heat, humidity, frequent afternoon storms, and a peak hurricane threat.
Pro Tips:
• Plan indoor attractions for afternoons.
• Check weather apps and have contingency plans.
• Stay hydrated and carry rain gear for sudden showers.
