As the school year ends and the summer season approaches, many people are beginning to plan for their end-of-school break. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy all the sunny weather South Florida has to offer along with plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are eight ideas for this summer:

1. Hit the Beach
South Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the white sand and crystal-clear waters of Miami Beach to the quiet shores of Delray Beach, there’s a beach for everyone. There is also Deerfield beach, common among many residents and a great place to socialize. People come to hang out there very often, so be cautious of the crowding which can make it harder to find parking.

I would recommend heading to the beach at the beginning of the summer, where it may be less crowded since some people are still finishing up school. The best days to go to the beach are when the UV index is high, which is perfect to spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean or taking in the stunning views.

2. Explore the Everglades
The Everglades National Park is a unique and fascinating ecosystem that is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, panthers and manatees. To enjoy a unique part of the swamp land, a trail like Shark Valley in Miami is the perfect visit. Some activities to do are take an airboat tour, hike the trails or go kayaking to explore this incredible natural wonder.

While preparing for this trip, some essential items to pack are mosquito spray, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery of the park.

3. Visit Art Museums
Here in Florida, there are plenty of museums to explore. A famous art exhibit is the Van Gogh Immersive Experience in Miami for $39.90 standard admission for adults. Full of multisensory art and the use of modern technology, Gogh’s art is displayed in an eye-catching way about the meanings and history of paintings.

Another well-known art museum is Wynwood’s Museum of Graffiti. This place is popular with many tourists for the variety of street art and picture opportunities. Murals of colorful and creative art fill the walls of Wynwood in inside and outside exhibits. These are just a few of the many options of art museums available in Florida.

4. Go Shopping
Places like Boca Raton Mall are a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of stores, boutiques and outdoor markets to explore. This mall is packed full of popular stores includingAmerican Eagle and Hollister. If tired, enjoy food at the food court with food places like California Pizza Kitchen or the Cheesecake Factory.

5. Enjoy Water Sports
During the warm climate, this summer is the perfect time to try out water sports. There are plenty of sports and activities to go around. Go paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing to enjoy the beautiful scenery from a different perspective. You are able to rent them at a place like Las Olas Paddle Boards, Boats, & Kayaks or Lauderdale Flyboard.

6. Take a Food Tour
Being so close to Central and South America, Florida is home to a diverse range of cuisines. Some of my favorite restaurants consist of Little Havana and El Balcon de las Americas Latinas in Coral Springs.

There are also many choices of seafood to places next to the ocean like Stiltsville Fish Bar and Catch of the day which are all in Miami. Take a food tour to try out some of the best local dishes and learn about the area’s culinary history.

7. Attend a Concert or Festival
Summer is a great time for outdoor concerts and festivals in South Florida. Some upcoming concerts in June are Melanie Martinez’s Portals tour at Yuengling Center in Tampa, Men I Trust at Revolution Live at the Backyard, and Cigarettes After Sex at FPL Solar Amphitheater at Bayfront Park. Purchase tickets on Ticketmaster and listen to new music styles with others.

8. Take a Road Trip
South Florida is just a short drive away from other great destinations, such as the Florida Keys or Orlando. You can go to all of the Disney parks and Universal. Enjoy the rides, food and experience with family and friends at these famous entertainment parks.

Take a road trip to explore all that the state has to offer and create unforgettable memories along the way.

No matter what your interests, South Florida has something to offer. Get out and explore the beautiful scenery and fun activities during break with friends and family.