Moving to Florida: How to Prepare for the Humidity, Bugs & Beauty

Florida is famous for its sun-soaked beaches, lush landscapes, and laid-back lifestyle. But if you’re planning a move to the Sunshine State, it’s wise to be ready for more than just stunning sunsets. Florida’s tropical climate brings high humidity, a vibrant (and sometimes pesky) insect population, and unique beauty you’ll want to protect and enjoy. Here’s how to prepare for all three:

Embracing the Humidity in Florida: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Florida’s lush landscapes, tropical breezes, and year-round warmth attract millions of residents and visitors. But living in the Sunshine State also means embracing one unavoidable reality: the humidity. Especially during the summer, humidity levels can regularly exceed 70%. If you’re relocating from a drier climate, the sticky air can feel overwhelming at first—and it comes with practical considerations for your comfort and your home.

What to Expect

Consistently High Moisture in the Air: Understanding Florida’s Humidity

Florida’s subtropical climate is a big part of its appeal—lush green landscapes, warm evenings, and thriving wildlife. But one of the most defining features of life in the Sunshine State is the consistently high moisture in the air. Unlike many parts of the country, where humidity rises only after rain, Florida often feels damp around the clock, especially in the warmer months.

Persistent Dampness From late spring through early fall, humidity levels regularly exceed 70%, and in some areas, they can hover near 90% during the day. This means that even a short walk to your mailbox can leave you feeling clammy or sticky.

Warm Nights The moisture in the air acts like a blanket, holding in heat even after the sun sets. Nighttime temperatures can stay in the high 70s or low 80s, with little relief from the humidity.

Impact on Comfort and Health Consistently high humidity doesn’t just affect how you feel—it can also trigger allergies and aggravate respiratory conditions. Mold spores, dust mites, and mildew thrive in damp environments, potentially impacting indoor air quality.

How to Adapt

Dress for Success Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen help wick moisture away and allow air circulation. Avoid heavy synthetic materials, which can trap sweat against your skin.

Use Air Conditioning and Dehumidifiers Running your A/C isn’t just about cooling—it also helps reduce indoor humidity. A good dehumidifier can further improve comfort and protect your home from mold and mildew.

Plan Outdoor Activities Strategically When possible, schedule outdoor chores and exercise early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are slightly cooler.

Stay Hydrated High moisture can make it feel warmer than it is, leading to faster dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel especially thirsty.

By understanding Florida’s consistently high humidity and preparing accordingly, you can stay comfortable and healthy while enjoying everything this beautiful state has to offer.

Mold and Mildew Growth in Florida Homes: What to Expect and How to Protect Your Space

Florida’s warm, humid climate is perfect for lush gardens and tropical landscapes—but it’s also the ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you’re moving to or living in Florida, understanding how moisture affects your home is essential to keeping your space clean, healthy, and damage-free.

High Humidity Year-Round Humidity levels often stay above 70%, especially in summer. This persistent dampness provides exactly what mold and mildew need to thrive.

Vulnerable Spaces Bathrooms, closets, laundry rooms, and any poorly ventilated areas are the most common trouble spots. Steam from showers, condensation on windows, and damp towels can all fuel mold growth.

Health Risks Mold spores can aggravate allergies, trigger asthma attacks, and cause respiratory irritation. Even if you’re not allergic, long-term exposure to mold and mildew can lead to chronic health issues.

Property Damage Mold doesn’t just look unsightly—it can stain walls, damage wood and drywall, and leave behind musty odors that are difficult to eliminate without professional treatment.

How to Protect Your Home

Control Indoor Humidity Keep indoor humidity between 40% and 50%. Use air conditioning and dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from the air, especially during the summer months.

Improve Ventilation Install exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and always run them during and after activities that create moisture. If possible, open windows to improve air circulation.

Inspect and Repair Leaks Promptly Even small plumbing leaks can create hidden pockets of moisture where mold flourishes. Check under sinks, around windows, and in attics for signs of water damage.

Use Mold-Resistant Materials Consider mold-resistant drywall, paint, and caulking in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.

Clean and Dry Damp Areas Quickly After spills or flooding, dry the area thoroughly within 24–48 hours to prevent mold from taking hold.

By understanding how Florida’s climate encourages mold and mildew, and taking proactive steps to manage moisture, you can protect your home and health while enjoying everything the state has to offer.

Impact on Indoor Air Quality: How Florida’s Humidity Affects Your Home Environment

Florida’s subtropical climate brings warm temperatures, lush vegetation, and abundant sunshine—but it also means living with consistently high humidity. While outdoor humidity can make you feel sticky, persistent indoor moisture has its own consequences for comfort and health.

Understanding how high humidity affects indoor air quality is an important step in creating a safe, comfortable living space.

What to Expect

Warmer, Mustier Indoor Air Moisture in the air holds heat, making indoor spaces feel hotter than the thermostat indicates. Even when your air conditioning is running, you may notice a damp, muggy sensation, especially in older homes or spaces with poor ventilation.

Allergy and Asthma Triggers High humidity creates a perfect environment for mold, mildew, and dust mites—three of the most common indoor allergens. As these organisms thrive, their particles circulate through your home, aggravating allergies and respiratory conditions like asthma.

Odors and Air Freshness Excess moisture can lead to musty or stale odors that are difficult to remove, even with cleaning or air fresheners. If your home has ever smelled like “wet towels,” persistent humidity is often the cause.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Use Air Conditioning and Dehumidifiers Running your A/C does more than cool the air—it also removes moisture. Pair it with a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity between 40% and 50%, which is ideal for comfort and mold prevention.

Ventilate Strategically Make sure bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas have exhaust fans vented to the outdoors. When weather allows, open windows to circulate fresh air and reduce moisture buildup.

Clean and Replace Filters Regularly Your HVAC system’s filters can collect mold spores, dust, and allergens. Replace them as recommended—typically every 1–3 months—to keep indoor air cleaner.

Inspect for Moisture Issues Look for hidden leaks, condensation on windows, or damp patches on walls and ceilings. Addressing moisture problems early helps prevent bigger air quality issues later.

By recognizing the impact of Florida’s humidity on indoor air quality and taking proactive measures, you can create a healthier and more comfortable home environment year-round.

How to Prepare

Invest in a Good Dehumidifier: A Key to Comfortable and Healthy Florida Living

Living in Florida means embracing warmth, sunshine—and humidity. With indoor humidity levels often climbing above comfortable thresholds, managing moisture inside your home is essential. One of the most effective tools for this is a quality dehumidifier.

Why Use a Dehumidifier?

Control Indoor Humidity Levels Maintaining indoor relative humidity between 40% and 50% is ideal for comfort and health. When humidity rises above this range, the air feels sticky and heavy, making it harder to cool your home efficiently.

Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth Excess moisture fuels mold and mildew, which can damage your home’s structure and belongings and trigger allergies or respiratory problems. A dehumidifier helps reduce moisture, protecting both your property and your family’s health.

Improve Overall Comfort By removing excess humidity, dehumidifiers make indoor air feel cooler and fresher, reducing that “clammy” sensation common in Florida’s climate.

Where to Place Dehumidifiers

• Bedrooms: Since we spend many hours sleeping, keeping bedrooms at an optimal humidity level can improve sleep quality and reduce allergens.

• Living Areas: These are often the most-used spaces, so maintaining comfort here helps everyone in the household.

• Closets and Storage Rooms: These small, enclosed spaces are prone to moisture buildup and mold growth, especially if ventilation is limited.

Choosing and Using a Dehumidifier

• Size Matters: Select a dehumidifier rated for the square footage of the room. Oversized units waste energy, while undersized models won’t adequately control humidity.

• Regular Maintenance: Clean or replace filters as recommended and empty the water collection bucket frequently—or opt for a model with continuous drainage.

• Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star-certified models to reduce electricity costs.

By investing in a good dehumidifier and placing it strategically, you can create a more comfortable, healthier home environment while protecting your property from Florida’s relentless humidity.

Dress Smart: Clothing Tips for Florida’s Humid Climate

Florida’s sunny skies and warm temperatures invite plenty of outdoor activities, but the state’s high humidity can quickly turn a pleasant day into an uncomfortable one. Making smart clothing choices is essential to staying cool, dry, and comfortable throughout the day.

Why Dressing Smart Matters

Humidity makes the air feel warmer because moisture slows sweat evaporation—the body’s natural cooling mechanism. Wearing the wrong fabrics can trap heat and sweat against your skin, leaving you feeling sticky and overheated.

Best Fabrics for Florida’s Humidity

Lightweight and Breathable Fabrics Choose natural fibers like cotton and linen, which allow air to flow freely and wick moisture away from your skin. These fabrics help sweat evaporate faster, keeping you cooler.

Moisture-Wicking Athletic Wear Modern performance fabrics designed for athletes can be highly effective in Florida’s climate. Materials like polyester blends engineered to wick sweat and dry quickly help maintain comfort during exercise or active days.

Fabrics to Avoid

Heavy Synthetics Avoid materials like nylon or thick polyester that trap heat and moisture, making you feel clammy. These fabrics hinder sweat evaporation and can increase discomfort and irritation.

Tight-Fitting Clothes Opt for loose or relaxed fits to promote airflow around your body and prevent skin irritation caused by chafing.

Additional Clothing Tips

• Light Colors: Reflect sunlight and absorb less heat.

• Hats and Sunglasses: Protect against sun exposure and reduce heat on your face.

• Breathable Footwear: Choose shoes made of mesh or other ventilated materials to keep your feet cool and dry.

By dressing smart with the right fabrics and fits, you can enjoy Florida’s beautiful weather while minimizing the discomfort of its humid climate.

Maintain Your Air Conditioning: Essential Tips for Florida Living

In Florida’s hot and humid climate, air conditioning is more than a comfort—it’s a necessity. Properly maintaining your A/C system ensures your home stays cool, healthy, and energy-efficient throughout the sweltering months.

Why Maintenance Matters

Prevent Breakdowns During Peak Heat The summer months in Florida bring consistently high temperatures and humidity. Without regular maintenance, your A/C system is at greater risk of unexpected failures, which can lead to discomfort and costly emergency repairs.

Improve Air Quality Dirty filters and clogged drainage systems can promote mold growth inside your ducts and vents, circulating allergens and musty odors throughout your home.

Save Energy and Money A well-maintained A/C runs more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.

How to Maintain Your A/C System

Schedule Regular Inspections Have a licensed HVAC technician inspect and service your air conditioning system annually, ideally before summer begins. This helps identify potential issues early and keeps your system running optimally.

Clean or Replace Filters Frequently Dirty filters reduce airflow and force your A/C to work harder. Check filters monthly during heavy use and clean or replace them every 1–3 months, depending on the type.

Check and Clear Drainage Systems Condensation from your A/C needs to drain properly to prevent water buildup. Ensure drain lines and pans are clear of blockages to avoid leaks and mold growth.

Monitor Refrigerant Levels Low refrigerant can reduce cooling efficiency and strain your system. A technician can check levels and recharge if necessary.

Keeping your air conditioning in top shape is crucial for comfort, health, and energy savings in Florida’s challenging climate. Regular maintenance pays off with a cooler, cleaner home all summer long.

Mind Your Belongings: Protecting Valuables from Florida’s Humidity

Florida’s high humidity isn’t just a challenge for your comfort—it can also damage the things you care about most. Over time, excess moisture can warp wood, corrode electronics, and cause mold or mildew on important documents and photos. Taking steps to protect your belongings is an essential part of living well in the Sunshine State.

Why Humidity Is a Risk

When the air holds a lot of moisture, sensitive materials naturally absorb it. This can lead to:

• Warping and Cracking: Wood instruments, furniture, and frames can swell and distort.

• Mold and Mildew: Paper, fabric, and photos develop musty odors and visible growth.

• Corrosion: Electronics and metal parts can rust or degrade.

• Sticking and Staining: Documents or photos stored together may stick and become damaged.

How to Protect Your Belongings

Use Climate-Controlled Storage If you have items you don’t access often, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. These spaces maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels year-round.

Seal Important Documents and Photos Store paperwork, family photos, and keepsakes in airtight plastic bins or archival-quality containers. Add silica gel packets or other moisture absorbers to help control humidity inside the container.

Protect Musical Instruments Keep instruments in cases when not in use and store them in an air-conditioned space. For delicate items like guitars or violins, consider using a room humidifier/dehumidifier to maintain stable conditions.

Safeguard Electronics Avoid storing electronics in garages, attics, or closets without ventilation. Use protective cases or cabinets and, if necessary, add moisture-absorbing products designed for electronics.

Monitor Indoor Humidity Use a hygrometer to keep track of humidity levels in your home. Aim for 40–50% relative humidity to protect both your belongings and your health.

By taking a few precautions, you can keep your valuable possessions safe from the hidden damage Florida’s humidity can cause over time.

Adjusting to Florida’s humidity takes some planning, but with the right preparations, you can stay cool, protect your home, and fully enjoy life in this beautiful state.

Dealing with Bugs in Florida: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Florida is famous for its warm weather, lush landscapes, and year-round outdoor living. But the same subtropical climate that draws people to the Sunshine State also creates ideal conditions for insects of every kind. If you’re new to Florida, expect to encounter mosquitoes, palmetto bugs (the infamous giant roaches), fire ants, and tiny biting midges called no-see-ums.

Knowing what to expect and how to prepare will help you protect your home, your yard, and your peace of mind.

What to Expect

Mosquitoes in Florida: What You Need to Know

Florida’s warm temperatures and lush landscapes make it an inviting place to live and visit. But the same climate that supports palm trees and tropical flowers also creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes to thrive. Understanding why mosquitoes are so common in Florida—and how to protect yourself—can help you stay healthy and comfortable year-round.

Why Mosquitoes Are So Prevalent

Warm, Humid Air Mosquitoes flourish in warm, damp environments. Florida’s subtropical climate provides nearly year-round breeding conditions.

Frequent Rainstorms Rain creates countless pools of standing water—perfect breeding grounds for mosquito larvae. Even small puddles can support thousands of eggs.

Long Breeding Season While mosquitoes are most active in spring and summer, Florida’s mild winters mean some species are present all year.

When They’re Most Active

Mosquitoes are especially active at dawn and dusk, when temperatures are cooler and humidity is high. You may notice swarms near ponds, marshes, and even in your own backyard after afternoon thunderstorms.

Health Risks

Florida mosquitoes are more than a nuisance—they can carry diseases that pose serious health threats, including:

• West Nile Virus

• Dengue Fever

• Zika Virus

• Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

Though not every mosquito carries disease, it’s important to take precautions to reduce your exposure.

How to Protect Yourself

• Wear Protective Clothing Long sleeves, pants, and socks can help reduce bites, especially during peak hours.

• Use Insect Repellent Apply EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

• Eliminate Standing Water Regularly empty birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, gutters, and anything else that can collect water.

• Install Screens Ensure windows and doors have intact screens to keep mosquitoes outside.

• Stay Indoors at Dawn and Dusk If possible, limit outdoor activities during peak mosquito times.

Palmetto Bugs in Florida: What to Expect and How to Keep Them Out

If you live in Florida, chances are you’ve encountered a palmetto bug. While the name sounds harmless, these large insects are actually American cockroaches—one of the most common pests in the state. Though they prefer to live outdoors, palmetto bugs will gladly move inside in search of food, water, or shelter.

What Are Palmetto Bugs?

Palmetto bugs are a species of American cockroach (Periplaneta americana). They can grow up to two inches long, with reddish-brown bodies and wings that allow them to glide short distances. Unlike smaller cockroaches that often infest kitchens or cabinets, palmetto bugs typically live outdoors in:

• Mulch beds

• Leaf litter

• Wood piles

• Sewer systems

Why They Come Indoors

These insects thrive in Florida’s warm, humid climate but will venture inside for several reasons:

• Food Sources Crumbs, pet food, and unsecured trash are strong attractants.

• Moisture Leaky pipes, damp basements, and condensation offer the moisture palmetto bugs need to survive.

• Shelter They often enter homes during heavy rains or cold snaps to escape harsh conditions.

How to Prevent Infestations

Seal Entry Points Inspect your home for gaps around doors, windows, vents, and pipes. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal cracks and block entry.

Keep Your Home Clean Wipe down counters, sweep floors regularly, and store food in airtight containers. Take out trash frequently and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.

Reduce Moisture Fix leaks promptly and use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements or laundry rooms. Keep bathroom fans running after showers to cut down on humidity.

Maintain Outdoor Areas Trim back vegetation, rake up leaf litter, and keep mulch and firewood at least a foot away from your home’s foundation.

Schedule Regular Pest Control Professional pest control treatments create a protective barrier around your home, reducing the chance of an infestation.

Ants in Florida: What to Expect and How to Keep Them Under Control

Florida’s warm, humid climate doesn’t just attract vacationers—it also creates the perfect environment for ants to thrive. From tiny sugar ants searching your kitchen for crumbs to aggressive fire ants building mounds in your yard, these persistent insects are a common nuisance across the state.

What to Expect

Sugar Ants (Ghost Ants) These small ants are notorious for invading pantries and kitchen counters. They’re attracted to anything sweet, including spilled juice, honey, or even crumbs. Once they establish a trail, they return again and again.

Fire Ants Fire ants are known for their painful stings and aggressive behavior when their mounds are disturbed. You’ll often find their colonies in lawns, gardens, and even electrical equipment. A single yard can host dozens of nests, making them hard to control without professional help.

Carpenter Ants Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t eat wood, but they hollow it out to build their nests. Over time, this can cause significant damage to walls, beams, and other wooden structures.

Other Common Species Argentine ants, big-headed ants, and pavement ants are also widespread, each with unique habits and preferences for food and nesting sites.

How to Prevent and Manage Ant Infestations

Keep Your Home Clean Wipe down counters, sweep floors, and store food in sealed containers. Even tiny crumbs can attract foraging ants.

Seal Entry Points Inspect windows, doors, and foundation cracks for gaps. Use caulk or weatherstripping to block their access.

Eliminate Outdoor Attractants Trim vegetation away from your home, move firewood piles away from exterior walls, and clean up fallen fruit or yard debris.

Use Baits Strategically Ant baits can be effective for eliminating entire colonies. Foraging ants carry the bait back to their nests, where it is shared with the queen and other workers.

Address Fire Ant Mounds Promptly If you see fire ant mounds in your yard, avoid disturbing them. Apply targeted insecticide treatments or contact a licensed pest control professional for safe removal.

Monitor and Repeat Ant control often requires consistent effort. Regular inspections and treatments help keep populations under control.

No-See-Ums in Florida: What to Know About These Tiny Biting Insects

Florida’s beautiful coastal areas and wetlands offer some of the state’s most stunning scenery—but they’re also prime habitat for one of its most irritating pests: no-see-ums. Also called biting midges, these almost invisible insects can quickly turn outdoor activities into an uncomfortable experience.

What Are No-See-Ums?

No-see-ums are tiny flies belonging to the Ceratopogonidae family. They are so small—often less than 1/16 of an inch—that most people don’t notice them until they start to bite. Despite their size, their bites pack a punch, causing:

• Itchy Welts: Small, red bumps that can be intensely itchy and last for days.

• Swelling and Irritation: Some people experience localized swelling or allergic reactions.

• Persistent Discomfort: Repeated bites can make spending time outdoors unpleasant.

Where You’ll Find Them

No-see-ums thrive in warm, humid environments, especially:

• Marshes and wetlands

• Mangroves

• Beaches and coastal areas

• Lakeshores

• Damp backyards, particularly near standing water

They’re most active at dawn and dusk when winds are calm.

How to Protect Yourself

Wear Protective Clothing Because no-see-ums are so small, they can slip through loose fabric. Wear long sleeves, pants, and tightly woven clothing when you’ll be in buggy areas.

Use Insect Repellent Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus can help keep these pests away from exposed skin.

Install Fine-Mesh Screens Standard window screens may not be enough—no-see-ums can slip through regular mesh. Use finer “no-see-um” screen mesh on windows, doors, and patios.

Use Fans Outdoors These insects are weak fliers. Setting up box fans or ceiling fans on porches and patios creates air movement that helps keep them away.

Avoid Peak Activity Times Limit outdoor activities around sunrise and sunset when no-see-ums are most active.

How to Prepare

Seal Entry Points Inspect your doors, windows, and foundation for gaps or cracks where insects might enter. Repair torn screens, add weatherstripping, and use caulk to seal any openings.

Regular Pest Control Hiring a reputable pest control company for routine treatments is one of the most effective ways to keep bugs at bay. Preventive spraying around your home’s exterior, including eaves and door frames, creates a protective barrier.

Use Repellents Keep citronella candles or torches on patios and decks to help deter mosquitoes and no-see-ums. When spending time outdoors, apply EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Yard Maintenance Trim shrubs, trees, and other vegetation away from your house to remove hiding spots and reduce moisture. Empty birdbaths, gutters, and any containers holding standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.

By taking these proactive steps, you’ll dramatically cut down on pests and enjoy Florida’s beautiful environment without constant bug battles.

Enjoying the Natural Beauty of Florida: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Florida isn’t just about theme parks and palm trees—it’s home to some of the most stunning natural environments in the country. From crystal-clear freshwater springs and tropical botanical gardens to hundreds of miles of pristine beaches and wildlife-rich wetlands, the Sunshine State offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.

Whether you’re moving here permanently or planning an extended stay, knowing how to enjoy Florida’s beauty safely and responsibly will help you make the most of this incredible landscape.

What to Expect

Crystal-Clear Springs: Florida’s Natural Treasures

When people think of Florida, they often picture white-sand beaches and coastal sunsets. But the state is also home to an extraordinary natural wonder: more freshwater springs than anywhere else in the world.

From hidden gems tucked into forests to well-known state parks, Florida’s crystal-clear springs offer a refreshing escape and a glimpse into the state’s unique geology.

What Makes Florida’s Springs Special

More than 700 springs dot Florida’s landscape, fueled by underground aquifers of freshwater that bubble up through limestone bedrock. These springs create:

• Cool, Turquoise Waters: Year-round temperatures hover around 72°F (22°C), making them perfect for swimming even in the heat of summer.

• Unique Ecosystems: Springs support a wide array of wildlife, including manatees, turtles, fish, and rare aquatic plants.

• Stunning Clarity: Many springs have water so clear you can see the bottom, often 20 to 30 feet below the surface.

Popular Activities

Swimming and Snorkeling The cool water is ideal for beating Florida’s heat. Many springs have designated swimming areas with white sandy bottoms and gentle currents.

Kayaking and Canoeing Spring-fed rivers like the Ichetucknee, Weeki Wachee, and Rainbow River are famous for kayaking and canoeing. The slow, clear currents create a peaceful paddling experience.

Wildlife Watching In winter, springs become warm refuges for West Indian manatees, offering incredible opportunities to see these gentle giants up close.

Diving and Cave Exploration Certified divers can explore underwater caverns and see stunning rock formations hidden beneath the surface.

How to Explore Responsibly

Because springs are fragile ecosystems, it’s important to protect them:

• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Some chemicals in traditional sunscreen harm aquatic life.

• Don’t Disturb Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and avoid feeding them.

• Stay on Designated Paths: Walking on riverbanks and underwater vegetation damages habitats.

• Pack Out Trash: Leave no trace to keep springs pristine for future generations.

Florida’s crystal-clear springs are more than just beautiful swimming holes—they’re living reminders of the state’s rich natural heritage. Whether you’re snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water, they offer an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Tropical Gardens and Wildlife: Exploring Florida’s Natural Diversity

Florida’s subtropical climate doesn’t just mean warm weather year-round—it also supports some of the most vibrant gardens and diverse wildlife in the country. From lush botanical gardens filled with exotic plants to coastal sanctuaries teeming with wildlife, the Sunshine State offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.

Tropical Gardens: A Living Showcase

Throughout Florida, public gardens highlight an extraordinary variety of native and exotic species, including:

• Orchids and Bromeliads: Flourishing in warm, humid conditions, these colorful blooms fill greenhouses and shaded trails.

• Palm Collections: Dozens of palm species, from the graceful royal palm to the massive sabal palm, line pathways and create striking backdrops.

• Butterfly Gardens: Many parks feature special plantings to attract native butterflies, offering a chance to see caterpillars and adults up close.

Notable destinations include the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables, Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota.

Florida’s Abundant Wildlife

Outside the gardens, Florida’s landscapes—from rivers and estuaries to coastal beaches—support a remarkable range of wildlife:

• Manatees: These gentle giants gather in warm spring-fed rivers during winter months, especially in places like Blue Spring State Park and Crystal River.

• Dolphins: Bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted along both coasts and in the Intracoastal Waterway.

• Sea Turtles: Florida beaches are critical nesting sites for loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles. During nesting season, you can witness hatchlings making their way to the ocean.

• Birds: The state is a paradise for birdwatchers, with wading birds like herons and egrets, colorful roseate spoonbills, and migratory species stopping over along the Atlantic Flyway.

How to Explore Responsibly

Whether you’re visiting a garden or spotting wildlife, it’s important to protect these resources:

• Stay on Trails: Walking off designated paths can damage delicate plant communities.

• Observe Wildlife from a Distance: Never approach or feed wild animals.

• Leave No Trace: Take all trash with you and avoid picking plants or flowers.

• Respect Nesting Areas: Follow posted rules during sea turtle nesting season to avoid disturbing hatchlings.

From tranquil gardens overflowing with tropical blooms to the chance to see manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitats, Florida offers countless ways to appreciate its natural beauty—and every experience is a reminder of why these ecosystems deserve our protection.

Endless Coastline: Discovering Florida’s 1,300 Miles of Shoreline

When it comes to coastal living, Florida stands apart. With more than 1,300 miles of coastline, the Sunshine State offers some of the most diverse and beautiful shorelines in the United States. Whether you crave quiet, hidden stretches of sand or energetic boardwalks lined with shops and restaurants, there’s a beach here to suit every mood and lifestyle.

A Coastline for Everyone

Secluded Beaches For those seeking tranquility, Florida’s Gulf Coast and undeveloped barrier islands provide peaceful escapes. Places like Caladesi Island State Park and Cayo Costa State Park are accessible only by boat and reward visitors with unspoiled white sands and calm turquoise water.

Lively Boardwalks and Piers If you prefer a more social vibe, Florida’s Atlantic Coast is dotted with vibrant beach towns and historic piers. Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach, and Hollywood Beach feature lively boardwalks where you can stroll, shop, and dine with an ocean view.

World-Class Surf Spots Surfers flock to iconic breaks like Sebastian Inlet, New Smyrna Beach, and Jacksonville Beach for consistent waves and a thriving surf culture.

Family-Friendly Shores The state’s gentle Gulf beaches—like Siesta Key and Clearwater Beach—are perfect for families with kids, thanks to their soft sand and shallow water.

Activities Along the Coast

With so many miles of shoreline, Florida’s coast offers something for everyone:

• Swimming and sunbathing

• Surfing and paddleboarding

• Kayaking through mangroves and estuaries

• Fishing from piers and jetties

• Collecting seashells and exploring tide pools

• Watching sea turtles nest in summer

How to Explore Responsibly

Florida’s beaches are precious resources that need protection:

• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and belongings.

• Respect Wildlife: Observe shorebirds, sea turtles, and marine life from a distance.

• Stay on Paths and Boardwalks: Protect dune ecosystems by sticking to marked trails.

• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Help preserve coral reefs and coastal habitats.

How to Prepare

Create Outdoor Living Spaces Make your yard or patio a comfortable retreat. Set up shaded seating areas with umbrellas, pergolas, or shade sails so you can relax and entertain without overheating. Outdoor fans and misters also help keep temperatures down.

Practice Sun Safety Florida’s UV index is high year-round, so protect your skin every day. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) before going outside, even when it’s cloudy. Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing to minimize sun damage.

Stay Hydrated Between the heat and humidity, dehydration can sneak up quickly. Always bring water when you’re spending time outdoors and sip regularly—even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Explore Responsibly Florida’s natural environments are fragile and deserve care. Whether you’re kayaking through mangroves, hiking nature trails, or beachcombing, follow local guidelines. Avoid disturbing wildlife, stick to marked paths, and pack out all trash to help protect these precious ecosystems for generations to come.

By preparing thoughtfully, you’ll be ready to experience all of Florida’s natural wonders safely—and fall in love with its vibrant landscapes again and again.

Source:

• Florida Climate Center – https://climatecenter.fsu.edu

• University of Florida IFAS Extension – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu

• Florida Department of Environmental Protection – https://floridadep.gov

• Florida Climate Center – https://climatecenter.fsu.edu

• Florida Climate Center – https://climatecenter.fsu.edu

• U.S. Department of Energy – Guide to Dehumidifiers