Top Ten Florida Watersports

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. October 14, 2008

MIAMI, FL, February 16, 2006. Across the entire USA, Florida is second only to Alaska in terms of coastline. This fact, together with the year-round warm climate, makes it no surprise then that there are a host of exciting watersports on offer throughout the Sunshine State. The friendly locals are more than keen to share their enthusiasm for and expertise in water based activities with visitors, so pack your towel, your togs, and your sense of adventure, and make the most of the following opportunities, our Top Ten Florida Watersports ...

1. WINDSURFING IN CLEARWATER

A hybrid between sailing and surfing, windsurfers enjoy the best of both worlds. Spectacular stunts are an option, but many prefer the peaceful relaxation of cruising over calm water. Clearwater, which boasts the best beach in the USA at Fort deSoto, offers ideal conditions for learners, with certified instructors passing on their know-how in a relaxed and friendly environment. floridasbeach.com

nbwindsurfing.com

1. PARASAILING IN MARCO ISLAND

Why keep your feet on the ground when the sky can afford you a much better view? Up high in your parachute you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico coastline. The 10,000 islands, the Everglades and the miles of pristine beaches will leave you floating on air long after you return to terra firma. marcoisland.com

1. WATERSKIING IN LAKE COUNTY

Host of the 2006 Junior U.S. Open Water Ski Championships, Lake County's enthusiasm for water sports makes it the ideal place to develop some serious ski skills. A plentiful supply of reputable training facilities offer to teach the basics, and promise slalom, tricks, jumps, barefoot or wakeboarding for the more adventurous of us. lakegovernment.com/enjoying_lake_country/sports.aspx

1. SAILING IN PENSACOLA

Lend a hand with the rigging, take the helm, or just sit back and enjoy the experience of sailing in the calm blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. From beginners to advanced certification, sailing lessons are widely available, with expert instruction in idyllic conditions. With romance in the air you'll find it hard to resist the temptation to sail off into the spectacular sunset. visitpensacola.com/Sports/fishresults.asp

1. JETSKI IN BISCAYNE BAY, MIAMI

A unique tour of Miami can be had on the water of Biscayne Bay, sitting astride a powerful Yamaha wave runner. Catch a glimpse of dolphins whilst you cut through the waves as you visit the Port of Miami, Bayside, Star Island (home of Miami's rich and famous), and Flagler Island before returning to Miami Beach. jetskitoursofmiami.com

1. KITESURFING IN ST. AUGUSTINE

Kitesurfing is a fast-growing and exciting watersport that is directing the attention of the watersport world towards Matanzas Inlet, just south of St. Augustine. At speeds of up to 30 mph, kitesurfing is not for the faint-hearted, but for thrill seekers the facilities, tuition and conditions in St Augustine offer the perfect opportunity for some exhilarating airtime. visitoldcity.com

oceaneextremesports.com

1. DIVING IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

The Florida Keys is home to North America's only living-coral barrier reef, and offer exquisite diving and snorkelling in crystal clear waters packed with an abundance of fish. Along the reef there are many different wrecks for divers to explore, as if the natural kaleidoscope of colours offered by the reef were not spectacular enough. fla-keys.com/diving

1. KAYAKING IN FORT MYERS & SANIBEL

Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, manatees and countless bird species accompany kayak and canoe enthusiasts along the miles of marked waterways and trails in Fort Myers & Sanibel. Calm waters, clear signage and protected trails, together with the outstanding beauty of the mangrove forests and profuse wildlife, make the Great Calusa Blueway Paddle Trail ideal for paddlers of all levels. greatcalusablueway.com

1. SURFING AT COCOA BEACH

Florida's Space Coast is the perfect place to grab a board and find out what all the surfing fuss is about. The Cocoa Beach Surfing School, which specialises in teaching beginners, is a great place to start. They'll have you riding a wave in no time, and once you're hooked will direct you to the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop - two acres of shopping heaven synonymous with the look and attitude of surf in the Sunshine State. ronjons.com

1. SPORTFISHING IN ISLAMORADA

Many fishing legends have been born in Islamorada, the sportfishing capital of the world. The books of Ernest Hemingway and Zane Grey have immortalised the experience of wrestling with sailfish, giant tarpon, marlin, or swordfish - just a few of the 225 species of gamefish that prowl the crystal clear waters of the Keys. Live the chase of a lifetime in a matter of moments, either under the guidance of an experienced captain or trusting instinct as your only guide. fla-keys.com/fishing