Spring is coming to an end, which means it's time to start planning for the summer months! Florida residents and visitors alike are no strangers to the high temperatures of the Sunshine State, so keeping cool is always a priority. Follow along for a few fun ways to stay cool throughout the summer:

5 Ways to Stay Cool in Florida’s Heat

1) Visit a Waterpark

cool off in the summer, Jacksonville summer, florida summer — Shipwreck Island Waterpark, photo courtesy of enjoyflorida.com

Going outdoors is many people’s first option when the weather is clear in the summer. But with temperatures predicted to reach between 80 and 90 degrees, escaping the heat can feel impossible. If you decide you want to spend time outdoors, a fun way to cool off is by visiting a waterpark. Jacksonville Beach’s Shipwreck Island Waterpark is a local favorite for families with children, and you can even rent a cabana to have your own space in the shade. Orlando is home to one of Florida’s most popular water parks, Volcano Bay, which is another great option if you’re planning a trip.

2) Make Frozen Drinks

One way to keep cool at home is to make frozen drinks and treats. Smoothies are an easy option if you have a blender or juicer, because all you need is some leftover fruit, ice, and the milk or juice of your choice. You can even use your favorite juice, fruit, or smoothie blend to make popsicles using a popsicle mold, and to make spiked pops, add your spirit of choice from Marlin & Barrel Distillery.

Timoti’s Seafood Shak also offers a range of signature and specialty cocktails like flavored margaritas, tequila sunrises, rum punch, mojitos, and more! Stop by for a refreshing way to stay out of the heat.

3) Invest in Sun Protection

Too much exposure to UV rays can lead to health hazards like skin cancer, so wearing sunscreen is a must during the summer even if you don’t plan to spend too much time outside. Using a canopy can help you keep cool by the beach or pool while also offering protection from the sun.

If you want to go outdoors but don’t want to spend time in the sun, plan your day to avoid the sun in the afternoon. The sun is at its strongest from 10 AM to 4 PM, so venturing outdoors before or after these hours might be the best option. Visiting the beach in the evening or planning a fun night of mini golf at Gregor MacGregor’s Mini Links & Drinks allows you to participate in summer fun without too much heat.

4) Stay Indoors

Some days, it might just feel too hot to spend any time outside. Luckily, there are lots of fun things to do with your friends and family throughout the Jacksonville and Fernandina Beach area. Try visiting Duck Pinz in Fernandina Beach for duckpin bowling and a menu of signature cocktails. The Amelia Island Escape Rooms are another fun and family friendly way to escape Florida’s high temperatures.

5) Enjoy Water Activities

cool off in the summer, florida summer, jacksonville summer — Photo courtesy of jaxfray.com

Spend some time outdoors this summer at some of Northeast Florida’s beaches like Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, or Atlantic Beach. Kayak tours and paddleboarding tours are available throughout Jacksonville’s beaches, or visit the Amelia Island Nature Center for family-friendly water activities. If you’re looking forward to a weekend at home, avoid the heat by bringing the pool party to your house with an inflatable pool. Play water games with water balloons or spray bottles to stay cool!

Timoti’s Seafood Shak

Don’t forget to stop by Timoti’s this summer for wild-caught seafood and cold, refreshing cocktails!

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Best Ways to Cool Off in the Summer