This state park boasts one of the top 10 beaches in the United States. In addition, visitors can fish, hike, take guided tours of the property, or enjoy a picnic on the grounds. One attraction that should not be missed is the Cape Florida Lighthouse, a landmark in its own right. Overnight accommodations are available; in fact, this is a recommended destination for Florida visitors looking for a quiet getaway. The park is accessible by automobile or by boat, and overnight boat moorage is available. The park is open daily at 8 am.

This state park, the largest in all of Florida, touches two majestic bodies of water: the Oleta River and Biscayne Bay. Visitors enjoy a variety of water sportsand other activities, including canoeing, fishing, paddle-boating, and mountain biking. The park, located minutes from downtown Miami, spans 993 acres in the northeastern corner of Dade County. Large groups may want to consider renting a picnic pavilion (available by reservation or on a first-come basis).

Located next to Port Everglades John U. Lloyd Beach State Recreation Area, is a 251-acre animal lover's paradise. Nesting sea turtles come here annually to hatch their eggs, and part of the park is a protected zone for manatees. Visitors can bird-watch and explore the seaside forest to find more common varieties of animals and plants. Excellent fishing, swimming, canoeing and picnicking spots line the length of the park. A concession stand provides snacks and beverages to visitors.

Spanish Monastery was originally erected in 1141 in Segovia, Spain and brought to America in pieces by William Randolph Hearst to be rebuilt stone by stone. It is the oldest building in the western hemisphere. Now officially named the Ancient Monastery St. Bernard de Clairvaux, the building serves as an historical landmark, an Episcopal church with 200 active members and a tourist attraction. The building is available for weddings, receptions and parties.

The gorgeous grounds of Hialeah Park, known as 'the world's most beautiful race track' are worth visiting. Guests find 31 barns, 1631 stalls, two gift shops, a barber shop, restaurants, banquet/party facilities, free carousel rides for the kids and a combined grandstand and clubhouse capacity of 20,000. The park hosts the Flamingo Stakes, a race featuring three-year-old breeds aspiring to compete in the Kentucky Derby. It is also home to hundreds of signature flamingos that populate this tropical paradise.

The Fruit and Spice Park is a 30-acre living plant park offering tours of its lush surroundings on a daily basis. The park is noted for having some rare fruit trees in the world. A gift shop is also located on the premises. You can sample and purchase some of the exotic preserves and jellies made from these locally grown fruits. Tours are included in the admission price.

At Kennedy Gallery, you can fulfill your fantasies of vivid oil paintings and artwork from local artists such as Helbert Ortiz, Clement Briels, Naoko, and Herbert Hofer. The paintings of gallery owner Robert Kennedy are also on display, as are those of his wife Michele Kennedy. The paintings are representational and brightly colored. Make sure you don't have any appointments later on while you're visiting this place, because browsing through this abstract collection could take a while.

If you are serious about scuba diving, take a week to sail the blue waters around the out Islands of the Bahamas. Every day of the cruise, offered by Blackbeard's Cruises is a pleasure. The captain guides the ship to the dive site that has the best conditions. Popular sites include the Rainbow Reef, the wreck of the Hesperus, and some of the world's best shark diving sites. Although conditions are not plush, true adventure enthusiasts enjoy the close quarters and informal dining arrangements.

In the heart of Coral Gables, adjacent to the Biltmore Hotel, you will find a gorgeous eighteen-hole, par 71 championship golf course. First opened in 1925, the course (designed by Donald Ross) offers enthusiasts the opportunity to venture out and enjoy South Florida's divine climate. You will also find the most up-to-date video training equipment here, and experienced golf pros are on hand for individual and group lessons. Tournaments and preferred group tee times can be arranged through the hotel's concierge. Hotel guests receive preferential treatment.

With a slogan like "Sustenance for the Soul," you can expect an exceptionally luxurious experience on Captain Sir! Charters. Your own private yacht, an experienced crew, and gourmet dining make this an unforgettable way to spend any special occasion. The vessel itself is a 46-foot Island Packet sloop, with two suites available for guests. Sit back and enjoy the calm of Biscayne Bay, the Miami skyline, or the beauty of the Keys as you sail by.