If anyone is looking for a somewhat bizarre and adventurous family destination for a long vacation, then the right choice is the vast land of Florida. It is truly the ideal place for a family vacation, as it has something to offer to anyone who visits! Florida has a number of structures of great architectural importance to wildlife and it also boasts some of the best beaches in the United States.

Florida is easily accessible via air and ground transportation, as it is a well connected city. One should encounter too many problems when trying to enter the state. The first thing that comes to mind when someone thinks about Florida is the beaches. The beaches are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida. Major beaches in Florida include those situated near the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf beaches at the south bay of Tampa, and the western central beaches of Florida. A primary attraction of Florida’s beaches is that people are allowed to bring their pets along to the beaches. Some of the “must see” beaches are Daytona Beach, St. Augustine Beach (cannonball jellyfishes are common here), St. Andrews beach (crystal clear), Indian Rock Beach (less crowded), Egmont Key beach (infamous lighthouse) and the list goes on and on.

Every beach has a unique characteristic that defines it. Daytona Beach is well connected, as transportation from the city to the beach is quite easy. This particular beach is well equipped to accommodate handicapped individuals as well. St. Augustine Beach has a wonderful sea life that rises to the surface at times. Cannonball jellyfish can be seen quite often on the surface of the beach. St. Andrews Beach boasts crystal clear water that allows individuals to see through the sea bed. On bright summer days the rays of sun make the sand shine brightly, almost like little diamonds. This phenomenon proves that it is a natural location and not an artificial resort. Indian Rock Beach is rarely ever overcrowded, as tourists tend to stay away from this particular location. A pleasant and secluded evening walk is a favorite pastime of beachgoers at Indian Rock. The light house that is built on Egmont Key Beach is a trademark in itself.

Florida has an abundance of beaches scattered all throughout the state. There are many beaches that are open to the public and can be explored by anyone. Most of these offer adventurous sports that take place on the beaches in Florida. Apart from adventure sports, there are ongoing special events that help to maintain the busy city. Spas are available for use near Daytona Beach, and they are considered a tourist hotspot. Relaxing in one of the many spas on Daytona Beach is a great way to unwind after a busy day in the hot sun. Daytona Beach is considered by many to be the base for visiting other places in central Florida. There are many tourist spots that people can explore during the day, then return to Daytona Beach before dinner. Some of the places worth mentioning are Ormond Beach, Sea World, Disney World, Kennedy Space Center, and St. Augustine.

One of the lesser known aspects that Florida has to offer is a very interesting wildlife population. The best way to start is from our true ancestors, monkeys. The monkey zoo, also known as the monkey jungle, is situated in Miami, Florida. It was established in 1933 by Joseph DuMund and the facility covers over ten acres of land. What began as a small zoo eventually grew to thirty acres and the monkeys are still living in it. Mr. DuMund did not want any visitors to be harmed by the monkeys, so he built a cage for to protect the people. Ironically, this might be the only zoo in which the animals are left open and the visitors are caged. Quite innovative and emotional for our ancestors, it appears. Just like in the history of our ancestors, the monkeys have a ‘King’ as well. A gorilla, that is aptly named King, draws pictures that can be purchased by visitors of the zoo. Initially, King was a caged animal, but he has now been released into the open. The park has many interesting and charming places that allow humans to enjoy the visit both mentally and emotionally. However, it is strongly advised to carry caps and hats along to avoid being hit by the droppings and excretions of the ruling monkeys. This place makes people realize the difference between monkey toys and the free ruling monkeys of this park. It is simply a pleasure to watch them.

There are many cities in Florida that have recently become major tourist destinations. Two of them worth mentioning are Ft. Myers and Naples. The city of Ft. Myers was built on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River. It is known for having some great tourist spots like the famous winter homes of Ford and Edison, a yacht basin, and the Harbor side Convention Hall. A must see destination would definitely have to be the winter homes of famous scientist Mr. Edison, and intellectual great Mr. Ford. These homes are open to the public all throughout the year except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. Another popular tourist attraction is a museum that is spread over an area of fifteen thousand square feet of land. This museum is home to hundreds of inventions by Edison and Ford, other objects, special changing exhibits and video theatres. The yacht basin is extremely well maintained and the staff is very friendly. The unusually quiet current near the Marina and the crystal clear water are bother surprises to visitors.

Naples is known for its magical sunsets that settle in the minds of all. Visitors to Naples are treated to a host of beautiful people who greet everyone with an everlasting smile and warmth. The backyard nature is actually quite abundant. The wild life of the city is rather notorious, especially with regard to alligators and Florida panthers. Visitors can experience Florida wildlife at many places like the Everglades or Gulf of Mexico. The food is simply the best tasting and least expensive and can be matched only by a select few. One final element that makes Florida the ultimate tourist destination is the outstanding golf courses available to the public.

Florida is certainly a place that should be visited by everyone at some point.