The Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors: A Guide

Author, Cynthia Ross Tustin – May 31, 2023

The Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors: A Guide is a perfect resource if you’re over 50 and planning your trip to the Sunshine State in the near future!

Are you an active senior looking to take the ultimate adventure tour in Florida? Then I have just what you need! From senior trips and sightseeing tours to action-packed excursions, the Sunshine State of Florida has got something for everyone. The weather is great, it’s affordable, and it’s close to home.

The Sunshine State

Are you an explorer of historical landmarks? Or maybe taking in natural beauty via ecotourism is your thing. Regardless, there are plenty of adventures waiting to be had. The active tours that I’ve curated for this post will create a lasting impression! These tours offer stunning views with breathtaking scenery, and they also come with some thrilling activities too.

I’ve made sure that I’m recommending adventurous trips and tours that discerning adults will love, that are affordable, and easy to get to!

Tours For Active Seniors: Defined

What makes a good tour, trip, or vacation for an active senior? Since I’m “of a certain vintage”, and my mantra is “60 is the new 40” I’ve done a lot of reading on being an “active senior”. So let me paraphrase what I’ve learned from studies like “Understanding the Value of Tourism to Seniors’ Health and Positive Aging” and in this case how it applies to Florida.

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Active adult/senior tours are curated travel experiences specifically designed to cater to the interests and abilities of older individuals who seek engaging and physically active adventures within the state of Florida. These tours are tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of active seniors, incorporating a combination of sightseeing, recreational activities, cultural encounters, and opportunities for socializing.

Good tours for active seniors often include visits to iconic landmarks, natural attractions, historical sites, and vibrant communities, enabling participants to immerse themselves in the diverse offerings of Florida. Such tours provide opportunities for physical exercise, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, or golfing, allowing active seniors to maintain an active lifestyle while exploring the beauty and richness of the region.

Furthermore, these tours may emphasize educational elements, offering insights into the local history, ecology, and culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for the destinations visited.

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So, with all that in mind, let’s dive in!

Iconic Landmarks & Historical Sites in the Sunshine State

Some people believe that Florida was put on the map when Walt Disney and his brother Roy purchased almost 30,000 acres in Florida back in 1963. In truth, Florida was discovered in 1513 by the Spanish explorer and adventurer Juan Ponce de León while looking for the Fountain of Youth. And those of us “of a certain vintage” have been going there ever since.

The Spanish in Florida predates the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock by over 100 years. So Florida is no slouch when it comes to iconic landmarks and fascinating history!

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West

Rating: 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from 383 reviews

This is a full-day tour that departs from Key West at 7 am. You’ll be ferried out to Fort Jefferson on the state-of-the-art catamaran, Yankee Freedom lll. An ironic name for a boat that visits a fort that was used held by the Union Army and housed notorious Yankee convicts.

With Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West you’ll Spend the day swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the military fort and the coral reefs around the Dry Tortuga National Park grounds.

Fun Fact: The USA has 63 National Parks, and of those, 6 can only be reached via boat or plane. The Dry Tortuga National Park is one of them.

What You Get With the Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West:

🐬 Ride a spacious catamaran across the tropical seas.
🐬 Enjoy spectacular views and learn about your surroundings from an onboard naturalist and historical narration while on board.
🐬 Cruise past Boca Grande Key, the Marquesas Keys and the Rebecca Shoal Channel.
🐬 Swim or snorkel around the park’s coral reef with ocean life such as dolphins and sea turtles – snorkelling equipment provided.
🐬 Enjoy breakfast and lunch on the boat.
🐬 The Park entry fee is included with the trip.

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What People Are Saying About the Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West:

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“Crew was great but out tour guide was amazing! He was so passionate about the history and made it interesting and fun! I would recommend going on this trip. It is beautiful and definitely an experience worth doing.”

– Louise W. Read more reviews

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Some of you will be taking the Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West for the history and not the dolphins. You’ll be able to explore the Fort on your own, and I came across this Self-Guided Tour Booklet of Fort Jefferson created by the National Park Service.

I thought you might appreciate the link. You can download it to your phone and use it while roaming the Fort. Cheers!

Check availability for the Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West here!

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Rating: 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from 853 stellar reviews.

I could curate an entire post on just the iconic landmarks of Key West! (Note to self, write a post on just Key West.) There are so many great places here. Key West is the southernmost point in the continental USA, there’s the Key West Lighthouse, and Duval Street, which runs the entire length of the island. And if you’re going to take time to see the southernmost buoy, you should also see where all roads supposedly begin. That’s mile marker 0 on Route One.

There’s the Customs House that oversees Mallory Square, it’s now a museum, and you won’t want to miss the Hog’s Breath Saloon. that’s where Hemingway spent most of his time! But you can visit his house too. There’s more than one fort in Key West. Check out Fort West Martello…now a garden club.

Fun Facts: Key West is closer to Cuba than Miami and people born in Key West are called conchs, like the pretty pink shells.

Don’t miss the San Carlos Insititute and the San Carlos Theatre. Both were founded in 1871 by the Cuban Community. There’s actually more to see than these places that I’ve mentioned here. the best way to see it all is via the Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour.

What You Get With the Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

🚋 Narrated tour while on the trolley
🚋 Literally, hop on and off the trolley any time you choose
🚋 The route covers over 100 points of interest
🚋 Your purchase of a one or two-day pass is good for unlimited trolley rides
🚋 And if you’re taking your grandchildren with you, kids under 3 ride for free.

And a quick FYI if you are travelling with your grandchildren, check out the tips in this post – 11 Amazing Tips for Travelling With Grandchildren.

What People Are Saying About the Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

“Driver was very knowledgeable of the history of key west. Joked and had fun with the people. You can get off at any stop and explore and get back on.”

Tiffany D. Read more reviews.

You can reserve the Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour now and pay later!

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral

Rating: 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ out of 458 fans who were over the moon!

Those of you who love to travel should definitely go and visit with the kindred spirits at the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral. No one travels farther than these folks!

Tours of Cape Canaveral since my family and I did original visits back in the 60s and 70s. Don’t get me wrong, it was absolutely thrilling to be able to drive around the predetermined route in the family station wagon for the self-guided tour. My six-year-old brother was an absolute Apollo savant, no tour narrator could have done better.

Fun Fact: You can still take a self-guided tour (no restricted areas), but my brother isn’t available for narration.

But the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral is no longer just a double-wide trailer on the tarmac with some displays on new-ish card tables (the weird things you remember from childhood). I have a much greater appreciation for all things NASA now that I’m older, and you probably do too. That’s why it’s included in a post about Florida tours for active seniors.

This tour of the Cape includes an encounter with a veteran NASA astronaut. “Buzz” Aldrin, the ultimate active moon-walking senior is still alive and doing well, but not one on the tour (sad face emoji). But there are plenty of others.

What You Get With the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral

🚀 Admission to the Kennedy Space Center
🚀A guided tour that includes restricted areas
🚀 Explore the interactive exhibits
🚀 Watch the IMAX films
🚀 Visit the Astronaut Hall of Fame
🚀 Strap into a space shuttle simulator (not the one that spins until you throw up)
🚀 See the Space Shuttle Atlantis
🚀 And an encounter with a real astronaut (not Aldrin or Lightyear)

What People Are Saying About the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral

“We booked two day tickets thinking we needed time for this experience. We hit the jackpot by seeing a spacex launch on day 2, it was amazing, a lifetime dream for us!”

Susan S. Read more reviews

It can be a bit of a hike to the eastern shore of Florida from places like Orlando, Jacksonville, or Miami (the closest airports). So if you’re looking to stay overnight, check out this list of nearby hotels. There’s a broad price range to choose from and one that will fit almost every budget.

A day trip, or two, to the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral is a great Florida tour for any active seniors. You can check tour availability here.

St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Rating: 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ out of 2377 Excelente reviews.

No disrespect to the pilgrims, but St. Augustine Florida was the first city in the USA established by Europeans. Ponce de Leon found it, but Spanish Captain Pedro Menendez de Aviles arrived in 1565 and colonized under the Spanish flag. So if you’re a history, architecture, and pirate buff the St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is for you! Lots of walking at your destination and then ride in the open-air trolley to the next. It runs every 15 minutes.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so a video must be more. I’m always happy when I can share someone else’s work, especially when it can benefit you, my readers. Take a look at this well-curated, and thoughtfully put-together, video by Dave and Cathy from Legends of America

What You Get With the St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

🚋 Narrated tour
🚋 100 points of interest
🚋 Get on and off at your leisure, the trolley loops every 15 minutes
🚋 Admission to the Florida Heritage Museum
🚋 Here are just some of the points of interest: Whetstone Chocolates Store and Tasting Tour, Saint Augustine Distillery, Lightner Museum, St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, The Llambias House Garden, and more

Pro Tip: if you’re planning on spending some “serious” time in the St. Augustine Distillery District…use this link for a list of nearby hotels!

What People Are Saying About the St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

“Best way to see every the city has to offer! The staff were some of the most friendliest people we encountered and the tour was very informative!”

Heather C. – Read more reviews

The stop at the Castillo de San Marcos Monument alone is worth the price of the trip. It’s the oldest masonry Fort in the United States, and it has been standing since 1695. The fort and surrounding grounds form a 20.5-acre national park. Here you can step inside the walls of the fort and even attend live re-enactments.

The St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is a good tour if you want to reserve now and pay later.

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Create Your Own Miami Or Orlando Tour With Go City

What if I told you that you could curate your own tour of Miami or Orlando? Let me introduce you to City Go, for your sightseeing needs. They’re not in every city yet, but City Go passes are available for Miami and Orlando.

Let me tell you why I think you might like City Go. Travellers like you and I can visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours save money, and discover plenty of hidden gems — all of which are handpicked by local experts. Go City allows travellers to avoid multiple entry fees and paper tickets. I like the one-price, one-pass, and everything right there on my phone.

You can use this link to find out about Miami’s Go City options.

And you can use this link to find out about Orlando’s Go City options.

They have two categories of passes – all-inclusive and explorer. The first one lets you totally fill your days and evenings. And the explorer pass allows you to pick your top “must-see” venues.

Senior-Friendly Natural Attractions and Ecotourism in Florida

Florida has a tremendous number of natural attractions due to its biodiversity and varied landscapes. And it has a remarkable number of eco-tourism opportunities, especially for active seniors.

With 63 National Parks and 11 state parks, Florida ranks 6th in the USA for land devoted to green space and conservation – 6.63% of the state is designated as either a national or state park. So the possibilities to explore nature are endless and unique!

Is wildlife spotting your thing? Grab your camera and head to Everglades National Park or Biscayne National Park for some birdwatching or check out the alligators. There are airboat tours and plenty of safe (alligator-free) walking trails.

There is no shortage of water in, or around, Florida. That means that you can active seniors can indulge in activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding pretty much anywhere. And these activities provide the chance to witness the mesmerizing marine life. Personally, I go for the Manatees!

Florida and its parks are just as interesting underground in many places. The state is a mecca for cave divers. PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, ranks Indian Springs in Florida as the best place for cave diving in the USA, and #2 in the World. High praise!

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission

Rating: 1684 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ great reviews

Fun Fact: Scientists explain the Florida Everglades this way – “with the rise of sea levels that occurred during the Pleistocene approximately 17,000 years ago, the runoff of water from Lake Okeechobee slowed and created the vast marshland that is now known as the Everglades.” And the Everglades National Park is a 1.5 million-acre wetland preserve.

The Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission are extremely popular because it allows you the opportunity to upgrade to a longer tour and book a lunch BBQ. Aside from the airboat ride with a professional guide, you can explore the park, spend time in the tropical bird aviary, and watch an alligator handling show.

What You Get With the Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission:

🐊 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride (depending on choice)
🐊 Nature demonstration
🐊 BBQ lunch at their Chomp House Grill (if you chose the 1/2 day)
🐊 Alligator souvenir
🐊 Access to the grounds and aviary

What People Are Saying About the Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission:

Everyone was friendly. Captain Mike was knowledgeable, professional and friendly. The drive through safari was great ! The Gator Farm was nice. The entire experience was special and we will recommend it to our friends.

Gayle H. – Read more reviews here.

This tour is both wheelchair and stroller accessible (if you’re taking the grandkids with you). Service animals are also allowed and almost everyone is able to participate in this physical activity.

This tour in Central Florida is close to traditional attractions like Disney World, so the Florida Everglades Airboat Tour and Wild Florida Admission fill up fast.

You can check it out here, and you may wish to reserve it now and pay later!

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour

Rating: 5 out of⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from 1293 happy reviews!

The Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour is the “up close and personal” way to visit this unique and biodiverse coastal ecosystem. And a great way to check out the indigenous flora and fauna. Florida has three types of Mangroves, red, white, and black; and each has special features. They are also home to a blend of marine life that thrives in both fresh and salt water.

There are both American Alligators and the, incredibly rare, American Crocodile that depend on the Mangroves. Don’t worry, your guides are well-trained to keep you safe. Nine species of snakes can also be found in the groves. Only the Mangrove Snake is said to be mildly venomous. Again, guides are there for your safety.

Are Snake Bites Common?

If you’re super worried, the University of Florida Extension wants you to know that in the entire state, there are about 8,000 venomous snake bites per year with about 5 being fatal (but only because treatment was delayed). So anywhere you visit in Florida, you have a 0.06% chance of receiving a venomous bite.

Honestly, I’d focus on the 250 species of birds that make this area home, including Roseate Spoonbills, Egrets, Herons, and Eagles.

Fun Fact: the mangroves actually take fresh water out of the salt water that they’re growing in. They have natural desalination abilities. Florida’s Department for Environmental Protection explains that some plants in the Mangrove excrete salt through their leaves, while others totally block salt absorption at the roots.

What You Get With the Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour

😎 Kayak tour of Key West mangroves, on the quiet side of Key West.
😎 Learn about local geology and nature with an experienced guide.
😎 Tours are 2 hours in duration and you can choose between a morning or afternoon departure.
😎 Great for all ages and skill levels.
😎 Kayak, paddle, life vest.

What People Are Saying About the Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour

“John, our tour guide, was knowledgeable, had a great sense of humor, and ensured that our group had a great experience! I’d highly recommend this tour.”

Erin K. – Read more reviews

While on the Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour, you’ll get to explore the seagrass beds, mangrove creeks and tunnels between Key West and Stock Island. The water here is very shallow, only inches deep, another reason it’s quite safe. You depart from, and return to, Hurrican Hole Marina.

Take your bathing suit, a hat and some sunscreen. Pack an eco-friendly refillable water bottle that you can fill at the marina for free. If you want a lightweight, collapsible, reusable, and totally packable in your suitcase, I recommend the from Specialmade…it holds 600ml and fits into my purse!

You can find out more about the Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour here!

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Manatee Swim Tour with In-Water Photographer

Rating: 5 out of ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from 1522 Manatee fans!

Many people come to Florida to see the dolphins, but anyone who swims with the Manatee falls almost instantly in love with these huge, gentle mammals. The Manatee Swim Tour with In-Water Photographer is the ideal Florida tour for the active senior who likes to combine hobbies. In this case, snorkelling and photography!

Fun Fact: The manatee isn’t related to the dolphin family, it’s more closely related to the elephant and the aardvark.

What You Get With the Manatee Swim Tour with In-Water Photographer

🛥 Travel through Kings Bay via US Coast Guard-certified vessel
🛥 Your guide doubles as your in-water photographer
🛥 Wetsuit and snorkel gear provided
🛥 With a maximum of 10 travellers for a more personalized experience
🛥 Bottled water
🛥 Pool noodles
🛥 And if you want someone else to take the photos and videos for you, that’s available but at an extra fee

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And if you’re just skimming this post, no problem, I do it too. I’ll just briefly mention again that in a post-COVID world, you might not feel comfortable wearing a “shared” mask and snorkel. You may wish to bring one from home. This Greatever brand mask and snorkel it’s lightweight and packs easily in your carry-on.

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What People Are Saying About the Manatee Swim Tour with In-Water Photographer

The tour was fantastic! Carrie & Mike were amazing. The second we got in the water, we saw a manatee! They are precious, gentle giants. Being in the water with them was an absolute gift!

Bobbi H. – Read more reviews.

What Christopher Columbus Said About the Manatees

“they are not so beautiful as they are said to be, for their faces had some masculine traits.” 

This is from his journals, and of course he thought he saw mermaids, and the legend was born!

The Crystal River in Citrus County Florida is considered the “world capital” for Manatees. And it’s one of the few places that allows you to swim with them. It’s important to remember that swimming with these magnificent creatures is a privilege and that there are rules. That’s why this tour is so good. They’re very experienced when it comes to helping you get the best out of the tour, and doing what’s best for the Manatee.

Take a look at this video from the US Fish and Wildlife Department about interacting with the Manatee in the Crystal River. Make sure your Manatee manners are up to snuff!

Peak Manatee season is from November through March. YOu can reserve the Manatee Swim Tour with In-Water Photographer now, and pay later.

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Deep sea offshore fishing out of Fort Lauderdale aboard 52′ Hatteras

Rating: 5 out of⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Is deep-sea fishing a favourite hobby of yours? Perhaps it’s an activity on your bucket list. Whatever the reason, the Deep Sea offshore fishing out of Fort Lauderdale aboard 52′ Hatteras is an excursion you’ll want to take. This isn’t a three-hour tour with Gilligan, the Professor, and Maryann.

This is a top-tier deep sea charter that goes out to catch sport fish like Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, Shark, Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, King Mackerel, Bonita, Barracuda.

They know what they’re doing, live and dead bait for billfish such as Sailfish. And they’ll bring out the shark rods, rigging bloody dead baits and target some large sharks if that’s more your thing. This experienced captain knows the best wrecks to take you to if you’re looking to catch Amberjack!

What You Get With the Deep Sea offshore fishing out of Fort Lauderdale aboard 52′ Hatteras

🐠 A boat that is set up specifically for sport fishing
🐠 An experienced and highly knowledgeable Captain
🐠 All fishing tackle that’s necessary based on the fishing techniques (trolling vs kite fishing or bottom fishing)
🐠 All necessary fishing licences
🐠 All edible fish will be filleted for you and placed on ice so you can take it home for dinner

What People Are Saying About the Deep sea offshore fishing out of Fort Lauderdale aboard 52′ Hatteras

“Each time this boat goes out, it is the only one with lots of large fish.”Each time this boat goes out, it is the only one with lots of large fish”.

Roman F. – Read more reviews

This is a private fishing charter, you can go by yourself, but it’s meant for a maximum of six – you and five friends (or the grandkids). Unfortunately, this charter isn’t wheelchair accessible and it’s best if you have a reasonable level of fitness…especially if you’re going out after shark!

The Deep sea offshore fishing out of Fort Lauderdale aboard 52′ Hatteras trip generally sells out fast. You can reserve it here!

Vibrant Communities & Cultural Immersion Experiences for Older Adults

As older adults, retirees, and “snowbirds”, many of us flock to Florida for its sunshine and vibrant communities. But long before any of us went there, the Spanish and Florida’s indigenous peoples called it home.

10% of native Floridians are Hispanic and back when the Spaniards came looking for gold, and the Fountain of Youth in the early 1500s, there were over 100 Native American Tribes here. Tribes like the Seminole, Apalachee, Timucua, and the Calusa.

Florida has been held by the Spanish twice, the British once, and Andrew Jackson came, and it became one of the United States. Florida sided with the Confederacy during the Civil War – although that probably had more to do with geography than politics. Once it re-entered “the Union” and the railroads came, Florida quickly became a “tourist destination” in the 1880s…see, Northerns have always hated snow!

The Spanish, and next Cuba, have the greatest impact on the Latino cultural diversity of the area. So let’s jump into some of that!

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami

Rating: 5 out of ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ for 4591 visitors

Little Havana in Miami is the cultural hub for over 50,000 residents of Cuban heritage. Many fled here during Castro’s regime, and it’s where they have collectively created one of the most unique neighbourhoods in South Florida. Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami is the best way to see it like a local.

Much of Little Havana centres on Calle Ocho, with its authentic restaurants, hand-rolled cigar stores, and it’s Caribbean vibe. Dominoes and chess in Maximo Gomez Park, artisan shops, and fabulous music are everywhere and it’s all centred on Calle Ocho.

If you’re a cigar smoker, then the best cigar stores are here. Cigar tobacco blends are like proprietary recipes from family restaurants. You may be able to watch them make them, but you’ll never know what’s in them. That’s a generational secret.

Fun Fact: True story, before Little Havana became a thriving Cuban Community back in the 60s, it was a thriving Jewish Community. The Jews fled religious persecution and came from all over the world. The Cubans fled Castro. Then came the Nicaraguans fleeing the Sandinistas. And more recently, the economic blight and civil war brought Guatemalans, Hondurans, and other Central Americans to the neighbourhood – according to The Atlantic. But it remains staunchly Cuban in its flavour and authenticity. Great neighbourhoods are a melting pot!

What You Get With the Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami

🚶‍♀️ Guided walking food tour of Miami’s Little Havana neighbourhood
🚶‍♀️ Stops at local eateries and sample authentic Cuban food and snacks (Cubanos, Guava pastry, Ropa Vieja, or perhaps some Tostones)
🚶‍♀️ Learn about the local history, culture and food scene from your knowledgeable guide
🚶‍♀️ All food and refreshments are included in the ticket price (The best mojito in town! Freshly squeezed guarapo juice – sugar cane, Cuban coffee, and water).
🚶‍♀️ Stops at A Cigar factory tour, Domino Park, Callejon art gallery, Cuban Memorial Blvd.

Yes, a Mojito is Cuban. It has five ingredients: white rum, sugar cane juice, lime juice, soda water, and mint. And it was originally considered medicinal!

What People Are Saying About the Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami

This was so much fun and the only “excursion” I planned ahead of time for our trip. Bianca was Fabulous. She knew her History and I loved hearing her story. We didn’t expect so much food. Which was Yummy. So Yummy we went back to Little Havana for dinner on our last night in Miami.

Terry S. – Read more reviews!

For some great music, think about the High Note Jazz Club, formerly the Copacabana Club (yes, the one that inspired the Barry Manilow song – honestly, I’m not old because I know that).

Find out more about the Little Havana Food and Walking Tour in Miami

If culinary tours are your thing, you might want to read, Best Food And Wine Tours For Foodies Over 55.

On the Gulf of Mexico side of Florida? Don’t have time to drive to Miami? Then you can get the Havana cultural experience with the Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour! When I was a kid, my grandfather took me with him to this amazing neighbourhood when he needed another box of cigars.

We’d share a Cubano, he’d have a La Tropical and I’d have a limeade. I remember it like yesterday. I still have several of his prized wooden cigar boxes.

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Myakka State Park E-bike Safari

Rating: 5 out of ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from 51 happy e-bikers.

The Myakka State Park E-bike Safari is one of the best ways to one of the state’s oldest parks. The Myakka River State Park is 58 square miles (37,000 acres) of Savanah, wetlands, and live oaks along the Myakka River. and what’s truly amazing is that it’s just 9 miles east of I-75 in Sarasota County.

There are miles of easily rideable trails, that have hammocks set out along the way. Seriously, hammocks!

What You Get With the Myakka State Park E-bike Safari

🚲 Use of an e-bike
🚲 Knowledgeable guides (due to the amazing wildlife here, the guides are extremely proficient at wildlife photography)
🚲 Water bottle
🚲 Bike helmet
🚲 Many of the trails here are wheelchair friendly

What People Are Saying About the Myakka State Park E-bike Safari

Jack did a great job with all instructions! We had the experience we had hoped for! Highly recommend to anyone who wants to try Ebike

Sara K. – Read more reviews!

Top-of-the-line e-bikes are super easy to ride and are the best of both worlds. You get a bit of exercise, but a motorized “assist” on the hills! I love them. They’ve changed the way I tour around.

This park is exceptional for birdwatching. There are at least 265 species of birds here, including the rare Black-bellied Whistling Duck (no, I didn’t make that one up), the Cinnamon Teal, the Canada Goose, and of course plenty of snowbirds (pun intended!).

Myakka State Park E-bike Safari, find out more here!

If e-bike tours are an interest of yours, you might like my post, E-Bike Tours for Seniors.

Best Florida Tours for Active Seniors

Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale

Rating: 4.5 out of ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from TripAdvisor

There’s more to Fort Lauderdale than “Spring Break”! Take the Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale if your time in Fort Lauderdale is limited. Or perhaps you simply want to see more of the city from the water. The Jungle Queen River Boat will take you along the New River for great views of places that are otherwise difficult to access. Check out the downtown skyline, the mega yachts, and the waterside mansions along Millionaire’s Row.

Fun Fact: Due to all the canals in Fort Lauderdale, it’s referred to as the “Venice of America”.

What You Get With the Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale

See Fort Lauderdale from the water on a riverboat
Choose between morning, afternoon, or evening tours
Food and beverages available for purchase on board
Fully narrated tour

What People Are Saying About the Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale

Amazing crew, super fun and easy to get to and the amount of time on board was just enough, not too little, not too much.

Karina R. – Read more reviews!

And if you’re wondering if Fort Lauderdale was ever an actual fort, it was. The City of Fort Lauderdale is named for a Second Seminole War fortification built on the banks of New River in 1838.

Reserve the Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale and pay later.

What Else Makes A Great Florida Tour For Active Seniors?

Travel and Leisure Magazine rates Florida as one of the best places for seniors to retire to. That’s because it has great weather, it’s geared for seniors with a good health care system, and there’s plenty to do…plus all those tax advantages. Maybe I should have led with that. There is no state income, inheritance, or estate tax. Florida prides itself on not having its hand in your pocket.

But that also means that your travel or pension dollars stretch farther for living and fun activities.

Combining Physical Activities and Fitness

Florida provides unlimited opportunities for those 55+ that are looking to stay fit and active. Okay, not skiing or snowshoeing. But you have to admit, snowbirds have been coming here for years for both the weather and the recreation!

A while back I wrote a post called, These are the Best Active Hobbies For Retired Couples. Florida offers opportunities listed in it, like hiking, fishing, yoga, etc in spades! But right now, I thought I’d focus on a couple of resorts that focus on other hobbies and interests for vintage adults. Golf anyone? How about tennis?

Why Not Create Your Own Florida Golf Tour for Active Seniors

Florida has over 1250 golf courses. Not surprising that this state has to most! There’s one for every style and ability. You can use this link to book one of the best golf hotels in Florida. And by “best” I mean best for you.

What’s best for me (who stops counting at 10 swings so that I always golf a perfect 180) would not suit someone like you who is a scratch golfer.

Golf Digest has been publishing its list of the top 100 golf courses annually since 1966. It’s fair to say that they know a thing or two about golf. They believe that Florida has three of the top 100 golf courses in the entire country. And the Seminole Golf Club is in the top ten.

You can use the link to the best golf hotels in Florida to plan your stay built around your own preferred golf courses.

Need a list of all the golf courses in Florida? Golf Now has you covered. Looking for the best deals for teeing off on a Florida golf course? Yup, there’s an App for that. Use the TeeOff App to check maps for local courses, connect with your foursome and book tee-off times.

Need some tips to get your golf clubs on the plane>

Tennis Anyone? How About Pickleball?

All Point Tennis believes that Florida is the number one destination for tennis lovers. As a matter of fact, they have 20 to recommend, and they cover the entire state, so you have plenty to choose from!

And Tennis Resorts Online has the top 100 Tennis and Pickleball Resorts and Camps in the USA (5 in Florida).

If you find one, or two, that appeal to you, you can use this link to find the ideal accommodation be it a resort or a fab B&B.

Off-Road Riding

It’s not all golfing and dolphins down there. The state of Florida is also a preferred destination for off-road trail riding. Places like the Croom Motorcycle Area in the Withlacoochee State Forest are a “mecca” for off-road riding according to the AMA (American Motorcycle Association.

The US Forest Service calls it OHV Riding – Off Highway Vehicle Riding. Call it whatever you like, but Florida has tons of trails for any Boomer, Zoomer, or Gen Xer that loves a motorized trail ride. They have a few simple rules, easily found on their website. But most of all, make sure you have the appropriate licences and trail permits.

And Trailsource recommends 10 different destinations for dirt bike riders.

And since I’m talking about dirt bikes, this might be the right time to mention some travel medical insurance. Not that you’re going to need it. I have no doubt you’re great on two wheels! But just to appease your spouse, consider getting some.

If you’re under 65, I recommend Safety Wing.
And if you’re over 65, I recommend Visitors Coverage.
Both are great and totally flexible when it comes to looking after your needs.

Best Florida Beaches for Older Adults

The State of Florida itself says its top six beaches for fun are Clearwater, Daytona, Jacksonville, Panama, South Beach, and Key West. And that “fun” is based on adventure, sports, events, parties, and nightlife.

USA Today rates the 15 Best Beaches in Florida for 2023. And Attractions of America has 35 Best Florida Beaches for Your Ultimate Summer Bliss. My point in sharing these is to demonstrate that with 360 miles of coastline, and 189 beaches, the chances are good that you’ll find one that appeals to you. Science Trends has a map of every single one of them!

Secluded Beach

St. George Island is considered to have the most secluded beach in Florida. You can find it nestled on a 22-mile barrier island off the “Forgotten Coast” in the northwest corner of the state. The uncrowded beaches are perfect for swimming or just relaxing on the sugary sand. There aren’t a ton of hotels there, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t nice places to stay. Try this link if St. George seclusion is your thing.

Adrenalin Beach

We’re older, we’re not dead. I still love some adrenaline-pumping activities (with or without the grandkids), who doesn’t?! Try the Private Wakesurf, Wakeboard and Tubing- Clearwater Beach excursion. Book a morning or afternoon, grab five friends who don’t need a pacemaker and enjoy the speed of a private water sports boat.

Try watersports like tubing and wakeboarding with equipment provided. You can also explore the barrier islands and take a refreshing swim in the Gulf waters just off Clearwater Beach.

You can find out more about the Private Wakesurf, Wakeboard and Tubing- Clearwater Beach excursion here.

Beach Hike

If you’re looking for a slightly more strenuous beach hike. I mean beyond the usual lovely, flat sandy beach walks. Consider a hike along American Beach. The Timucuan Preserve on Amelia Island is home to the largest dune system on the Atlantic Coast.

The Preserve, near Jacksonville, is full of history and is geographically unique. Stay off the areas marked as protected and think twice about swimming because there are strong rip tides.

Or consider taking a Private Walking Tour to the Best of Fernandina Beach, also on Amelia Island.

Tips for Planning an Ideal Active Senior Vacation

Planning an active adult vacation to Florida can be a thrilling experience. There’s no shortage of attractions, activities and cultural experiences in the Sunshine State so taking some time ahead of your travels will ensure you get the most out of your trip.

If you’re on a fixed income, and heading planning a Florida vacation, I have plenty of tips in my post, Fixed Income Travel – The Best Tips For Retirees (2023).

Quick List

• Prioritize your activities, then look at the associated costs of food, lodging, and transportation. For example, if city tours full of museums, walking tours, and art galleries is your jam, do you really need to rent a car? Do any of your preferred excursions already include a meal, like a boat cruise or a BBQ?
• Adjacent Accommodation: If you have a car, it might be more economical to stay one town over from the hyper-popular tourist town than in it.
• Seniors discount: Both AARP and CARP will tell you “Don’t be shy about asking for a discount”. That’s because no one is shy about charging for everything. Most places offer a 10-15% discount for seniors. And many places, like the national and state parks, have free or highly discounted passes for older adults.
• Package deals: While it’s not always advertised, many hotels offer package deals that line up with things like airport transportation, tours, and even spas. Free and sale are my two favourite four-letter words…not the four-letter words I use the most often, but definitely my favourites!
• Groupon: Don’t underestimate the power of a good coupon. And while you might not need an oil change while on your vacation, there are plenty of deals for many of your favourite restaurants.
• Friends: Get recommendations from friends on places to stay and visit. And perhaps of equal importance, places to avoid.
• There’s an App for that: There are plenty of techie tools to assist you with all your vacation plans and needs. They can be especially handy if you’re a senior travelling alone.
• Get help: For some, planning the trip is half the fun. Others hate it…use a travel agent! Or companies like CAA or AAA.

Just Go With It

You’re a savvy and experienced adult. Throw caution to the wind, and just go. For most of us, Florida is not that far away and we can “phone a friend” if we need some help.

So Let’s Sum Up Florida Tours For Seniors

So let’s sum up Florida tours for active seniors. They’re basically perfect for everyone! Seniors looking to take it easy and explore the state’s gorgeous beaches can do so with ease. And those who like a bit of excitement have plenty of thrilling options available as well. Whichever route you choose, your trip is sure to be unforgettable!

From sightseeing tours to adrenaline-filled adventures there’s something here in beautiful Florida that will keep even the most experienced traveler amazed – what better way could there be to experience this magical part of America? So don’t wait any longer – get ready for some unforgettable days as you discover all that awaits you when visiting sunny Florida!

Cheers,
Cynthia

All photos courtesy of iStock, unless otherwise specified.