Summer on Florida’s Treasure Coast paves the way for countless activities designed to beat the hot weather. These activities are all about salty breezes, sunshine, and laid-back fun. Whether you’re a year-round resident or just visiting, there are countless things to do on the Treasure Coast to cool off while enjoying the great outdoors.
From beach days with friends and family to indoor theater events, these 10 hot weather activities are guaranteed to take advantage of the Treasure Coast’s incredible summer vibes.
1. Hit the Beach
The beach is one of the best places to spend a hot summer day, and there are no better stretches of pristine beaches than those on the Treasure Coast! It’s an obvious choice for some, but with miles of expansive shoreline, you’re sure to find a reprieve from the hot summer heat at the beach.
Whether you’re looking for a perfect stretch of sand to relax and read a book or want a more family-friendly beach, there are Treasure Coast beaches that match everyone’s needs.
Consider visiting the beach in the early morning or late afternoon if you want to avoid peak sun hours. You can also check out some local brunch spots to hit afterwards to break the heat as the weather starts warming up.
2. Go Snorkeling or Swimming
The Treasure Coast has many opportunities to swim, snorkel, and even wade. You need to grab a snorkel and head to the beach. There are some shallow reefs to explore, or you can hang out on a float and listen to your favorite music; the choice is yours.
Plenty of local beach rental shops have everything you need to go snorkeling, so don’t feel pressured to buy gear. You can even take diving or snorkeling lessons to develop your water skills! If you have an underwater camera or waterproof phone, consider turning your journey into an impromptu photo session.
You can snorkel at virtually any beach, but it could be helpful to choose some with calmer waters that can provide better visibility.
3. Cast a Line
Fishing is a favorite pastime for Treasure Coast residents and visitors alike, so why not use this activity as an excuse to get out and spend time near the water? It doesn’t matter if you fish from a bridge, boat, or the shore; you’re likely to find the experience relaxing and rewarding.
You just need a rod, some bait, and a little patience to enjoy fishing on the Treasure Coast. Consider charter services or hiring local guides to teach newcomers the ropes at local fishing spots.
Another tip is to go to a bait shop and ask the employees there for advice on what to use and where to go.
4. Paddle Into Peace
There are many ways to enjoy active water activities that can be calming or exhilarating, and kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent examples. Look for gentle waterways and mangrove-lined trails for some of the best paddleboarding. This is a peaceful way of exploring nature while getting a great workout!
Watch for manatees, colorful birds, and dolphins while you explore and enjoy the summer weather. Don’t forget a dry bag for your phone and other devices, and wear water shoes, sunscreen, or a hat.
5. Chill Indoors at a Theater
Sometimes the best summer activities happen indoors, offering a break from the heat. Look for a matinee movie. See a live performance in the area, or head to an open mic night at local restaurants.
There are almost always great options that are showing for all ages. And the best part? Theaters are typically air-conditioned, making them an incredible place to cool down after a day in the sun.
Look at local community calendars, like the Lyric Theatre, for some low-cost or free performances. A theater is also a great rainy day activity when you don’t feel like sitting home.
6. Let the Kids Loose at a Splash Pad
Calling all families with little ones! Head over to a local splash pad or water park to keep cool on hot Summer days.
There are kid-friendly water playgrounds scattered about the Treasure Coast, typically located inside parks or other community centers. They’re usually free and offer plenty of shade, helping to burn some energy and keep calm.
Looking for things to do with toddlers in Port St. Lucie? Check out Pioneer Park or the Fountains at Tradition, where there are splash pads and other activities to keep the kids busy.
Royal Palm Pointe Park in Vero Beach has a fantastic fountain setup, as does Indian Riverside Park in Jensen Beach.
Sailfish Splash in Stuart opens seasonally and will be immensely popular with a lazy river, slides, and lap pool.
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks, towels, and a change of clothes. And don’t forget to stay hydrated!
7. Stroll through a Museum or Gallery
Museums are cool spots during the summer, figuratively and literally. Whether you love art, science, history, or want to learn more about local culture, museums offer interactive, air-conditioned activities in the summer.
There are many family-friendly museums, perfect for families looking to make the most of summer vacation.
Take a casual stroll through a museum, learning something new while enjoying the summer without the scorching heat. Check out souvenir shops, snagging a unique local souvenir not available online.
The Vero Beach Museum of Art is world-class and can keep you busy for multiple days. Elliott Museum near Stuart Beach is another good choice, but may not catch the attention of youngsters.
If the focus is on little ones, check out the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast, where there are multiple exhibits and an outdoor playground if the weather is nice.
8. Explore Local Shops and Ice Cream Stops
The Treasure Coast is known for its Old-Florida vibes and walkability, with plenty of local shops and ice cream stops to enjoy. Beat the heat with a leisurely walk through any number of adorable downtown areas, visiting boutique stores, coastal cafes, and some incredible art galleries. You might even pop in one of the amazing Treasure Coast breweries.
Afterward, treat yourself to some homemade ice cream or frozen lemonade. You’ll enjoy a fabulous summer day while supporting local businesses.
9. Take a Sunset Cruise
When the sun sets on the Treasure Coast, embrace the beautiful scenery and salty summer breeze on a sunset cruise. Evening cruises and boat tours are ideal for conquering the summer heat while soaking up unbeatable ocean views.
Choose from romantic sails, eco-friendly tours, and private boat tours, perfect for the entire family. The sunset cruises in Stuart are some of the most popular tours in the city. They overlook the array of colors behind the sailboats moored in the St. Lucie River.
Be sure to grab a light sweater, mostly in case of heavy wind, and your camera to capture sunset views from the water.
10. Check Out Summer Events and Festivals
Especially in the summer, there are Treasure Coast events that capture the attention of those all over the region. This includes farmers markets, craft fairs, evening concerts, food truck nights, art walks, and more.
Check out some of the top farmers’ markets near Port St. Lucie, which you can get to all around St. Lucie County and beyond.
Many of these events start in cooler hours or offer shaded areas. You might even find misting tents to keep things comfortable for everyone.
Our event calendar is the best way to find something that’s happening today, this week, or sometime in the future when you’re planning your outing.
Grab some lawn chairs and comfortable clothes, and get ready to enjoy the sense of community the Treasure Coast is known for.
Your Hot Weather Game Plan
Don’t let the summer heat keep you indoors. On the Treasure Coast, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the summer indoors and outdoors comfortably.
Whether you’re enjoying a sunset boat cruise or coasting on a kayak, the Treasure Coast offers something incredible. Stroll through local museums, take in a matinee, and snorkel near the shore. Remember to pack a few essentials, such as sunscreen, water, and snacks, and keep your sense of adventure handy: you never know what adventure you’ll encounter!
