Kickoff your next unforgettable family trip on Florida’s Sports Coast. With four amazing cities to explore, we’re an unbeatable destination that offers a little bit of everything. From safari-style tours to paddling adventures, cable wakeboarding to amazing restaurants, you’ll discover endless ways to play in our year-round warm weather. While there’s no limit to the one-of-a-kind attractions and unique experiences you’ll find on Florida’s Sports Coast, there are a few time-tested favorites that have been drawing families to our adventurous location for years.
Your playbook for three days of fun and sun
Friday
Get out of town
After a long day of traveling, most families are looking to start their three day weekend with good food and a relaxing night on the town. Gill Dawg Tiki Bar is a great choice for your first night out. Here, you’ll sit back and relax while enjoying locally inspired dishes, signature cocktails and amazing live performances. The acts change weekly, so depending on the night, you’ll enjoy anything from classic country to modern rock.
Saturday
Grab an amazing breakfast
Rise with the morning sun and enjoy a great cup of coffee at The Breakfast Nook in Lutz, Florida. Known for their down-home cookin’, your family will enjoy savory Southern plates made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Note: You may want to have seconds; you have a BIG day ahead of you.
Do some early morning exploring
After you’ve enjoyed a hearty breakfast, you’re ready to enjoy your first family adventure at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park. Here, you’ll discover 8,000 acres of untouched land that’s perfect for hiking, biking and camping. Home to several playgrounds and a variety of multi-purpose trails, you’ll enjoy your first morning on Florida’s Sports Coast with scenic views and exciting adventures in Mother Nature.
Cool off at the Aqua Park
Once you’ve worked up a sweat at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, head over to The Lift Adventure Park to cool off. Located on a beautiful manmade lake, this exciting aqua park offers something for everybody. Whether you’re experiencing the thrill of cable wakeboarding or climbing on the park’s inflatable jungle gym, you’ll find an unbeatable location for a refreshing outdoor adventure.
Refuel with a great lunch
When you finish playing in the Aqua Park, head to Whiskey Joes Bar & Grill for a delicious mid-day meal. There, you’ll enjoy a laid back atmosphere with cold drinks, fresh eats and live music. Known for their beautiful dockside location, you can come by land or water to enjoy mouthwatering Gulf Grouper Tacos, Mango Glazed Scallops, Coconut Rum Chicken or the always-fresh Raw Oyster Bar.
Explore stunning waterways
Now that you’ve recharged with a filling meal, stop by Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park for an exciting kayaking or paddle boarding trip. A well-known destination for paddling and fishing, this untouched nature preserve is home to hundreds of species of local wildlife and beautiful mangrove shorelines. With four miles of beautiful coastline and salt springs as deep as 351 feet, Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park is the perfect place to dive into your next family adventure.
Enjoy a family dinner
Finish the day with an amazing meal at Craft Street Kitchen. Located in Trinity, Florida, this winning restaurant is home to a playful and fun menu that offers delicious options like Buffalo Cauliflower, Smoked Old Fashioned and Mr. Rib Sandwiches. Known for using fresh, local and sustainable ingredients, Craft Street Kitchen is the perfect place to enjoy an amazing family meal that’s straight from the sea or fresh off the farm.
Sunday
Spend a full day on the Gulf
No trip to Florida’s Sports Coast is complete without exploring the Gulf of Mexico. All along our coastline, you’ll find great options for boat charters and fishing guides. Whether you’re after snook, reds or sea trout, our experienced guides will hook you up with the equipment and information you need. Note: Sundays are always a popular day for fishing. Make sure to book your inshore, offshore or deep-sea fishing charter at least a week in advance.
Swing by Ottoway’s before you leave
Once you’re back on dry land, swing by Ottoway’s Parkside Ice Cream Parlor for a final delicious taste of Florida’s Sports Coast. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the end of an amazing three-day weekend with your family.