Miami is known for its temperate climate and its beaches, and most visitors don't want to just sit in their hotel rooms and watch television. Travelers want to get out and enjoy the many outdoor activities that Miami has to offer. "Natural Health" magazine ranked Miami as the "healthiest city in the United States" in 2002, and the wealth of adventurous activities available in the city contribute to the overall health of its residents and visitors.
Kite surfing or "kite boarding" is a cross between windsurfing and wake boarding in which you ride a small surfboard while the wind uses a sail or "kite" to pull you across the water. A number of companies in the Miami area provide kite surfing lessons, and different types of lessons are available. These include private; semi-private with one to two people; couples; programs for children and kite camps. In a camp, students learn how to set up and manage the kite surfing equipment, learn safety, launching and landing, board and piloting skills and how to self-rescue. Rental equipment is available at most kite surfing locations along with other equipment such as kayaks and paddle boards. Lessons are taught by qualified instructors who are IKO- or PASA-certified.
During a scuba diving experience, divers can see colorful saltwater fish or view underwater reefs up close. Hundreds of shipwrecks are just miles off the coast of Miami for visitors to explore. Miami, which was ranked as one of the "20 best dive sites" by "Scuba Dive" magazine, has many opportunities for scuba diving. Artificial reefs are just off the coast of Miami as well as natural reefs in Biscayne National Park. The park also features glass-bottom boat tours, walking trails, canoeing, fishing, kayaking and snorkeling.
Swimming with dolphins is one way to experience ocean and marine wildlife when you vacation in Miami. Swim with the well-known mammals at Dolphin World, which began in the mid 1990s and now serves families, large and small groups and individuals. It provides the opportunity to learn about dolphins as you swim with them. The programs offered are designed to be both entertaining and educational and cover a variety of topics, including communication and anatomy as well as environmental issues impacting dolphins and dolphin intelligence. In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to pet, hug and kiss dolphins as well as understand their behaviors. All the instruction is provided in the water, right alongside the dolphins.
Dolphin World
954-525-4441
dolphinworld.org
Deep sea fishing in Miami is not like taking a fishing pole and heading to the nearest river or pond. Depending on the time of year, a variety of fish can be caught during a deep-sea fishing experience. These fish include grouper, snapper and Spanish mackerel, among many others. Nine marinas are in the Miami area that offer group and private charter boats. A private charter costs more, usually between $500 and $600, in 2010, but everything needed to fish is provided. According to the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, three companies in Miami provide charter services. All accommodate half- or full-day charters. Another option is to join a group deep-sea fishing program. The experience is not as private, but is less expensive.
Oleta River State Park is the largest urban park in Florida and is known best for its off-road bicycle trails. These trails, which cover more than 10 miles, include both off-road and paved trails for novice riders all the way up to trails for experienced off-road bicyclists. Bikers must wear a helmet if under 16 years old and have the ability to navigate the trail's terrain. In addition, all bikers must be able to mount and dismount a bicycle themselves. In addition to biking, the park also offers canoeing, kayaking, swimming and camping. Bicycles as well as canoes and kayaks can be rented at the park.
Oleta River State Park
3400 NE 163rd St.
North Miami, FL 33160
305-919-1844
floridastateparks.org
You can find a number of options to skydive in Miami. Locations have programs for not only first-time jumpers, but those with experience as well. For first-time sky divers, tandem skydiving or skydiving with an experienced and trained partner should come before any advanced program. During the jump, you will have opportunities to see the Florida Everglades, downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay as well as the scenery in and around Miami. Anyone who is in good health is able to participate, but individuals must be at least 18 years old. Video and photographer services are offered at most skydiving facilities to provide a memory of the experience.
