BEAT THE HEAT
Eight water activities for cool summer fun
It’s hot outside, which means there’s no reason to skip trying a new water activity to keep yourself cool.
Here are eight aquatic activities to do in Palm Beach County:
1. Kayaking is OK
We’ll start with the easiest one. Come on now! What’s more relaxing than gliding through the water in a kayak, a small cooler between your legs and a Bluetooth speaker pumping out the jams? It can just be you and nature, or grab a friend and get a two-seater. While you’re gliding along, be on the lookout for manatees, which are often seen in the canals.
Information: visitpalmbeach. com; kayakkingwatersports.com; Jupiter Outdoor Center on Love Street, John D. MacArthur State Park and Jonathan Dickinson State Park
2. Snorkeling can be chill … but keep your eyes open
See a different world. Seriously, there’s an entirely different planet under the ocean’s surface. All you need are snorkel fins and a mask. Swim through reefs and see different fish, algae, crabs and if you’re lucky, even a seahorse. It’s a colorful experience that’s still pretty relaxing.
Where to do it: The snorkel trail at Phil Foster Park is a perfect spot to see a host of unique marine life, including squid, octopus, spotted rays and starfish. The snorkel lagoon on the south side of Peanut Island also provides an easy viewing area for inexperienced snorkelers and younger children. For more experienced snorkelers and divers, Ocean Reef Park in Rivera Beach is considered one of the top underwater viewing spots in the county.
3. Swim with sharks
So you’re a daredevil? OK. How about taking a diving tour and getting your scuba on with the big dogs — I’m talking dolphins, stingrays, seas turtles and yes, even sharks. Book an excursion or get your scuba certification with local diver and marine life advo- cate Ryan Walton. The adrenaline is incredible. It’s definitely something to knock off your bucket list while daycaying in Palm Beach County.
Information: ryanwaltonofficial.com
4. Surf ’s always (semi-)up!
You might not become a pro overnight, but hey, it’s totally worth the try. This is a challenging sport for some — a battle with your own surfboard. The good thing is that Florida waves are basically for beginners. They’re never incredibly big, so it’s easy to learn here. You can spend an entire day waiting for the perfect wave, pulling yourself on the board and keeping your bal-
ance. There’s a lot to surfing that will challenge your mind and body.
Where to do it? Island Water Sports in Deerfield Beach has free classes every Saturday morning.
Island Water Sports: 1985 NE Second St., Deerfield Beach; 954-427-4929.
5. OK, daredevil … kitesurfing is insane
Bounce over the ocean higher than a dolphin’s jump. Just hang on to the handle, catch some wind, jump and turn. It sounds easier than it really is; however, there are places willing to spend hours, even days with you, teaching you how to surf the
skies. There’s speed, acrobatics and heights involved.
Where to do it: Delray Kiteboarding; 561-703-5367.
6. Get a workout while paddleboarding
Balance is key. In order to have a balanced lifestyle, you must put the task to practice. Paddleboarding is a relaxing experience that teaches you equilibrium, patience and precision. When you keep yourself standing with your legs and guide with your a r ms, you’ re us i ng your mind and muscles to coordinate your path. For a namaste-kinda-twist, try paddleboard yoga.
Information: Palm Beach Paddle Boarding, 561-3136011; visitpalmbeach.com; kayakkingwatersports.com; paddleawaysportsfl.com; Jupiter Outdoor Center on Love Street, John D. MacArthur State Park and Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
7. Fishing is as relaxing as it gets
It’s one of those things that seems so cliche to the tropics, but how many people do you know who actually know how to fish? This r e l a x i n g s p o r t i s a wai t - ing game. It te aches you p a t i e n c e a n d p e r s e v e r - ance — and for me, it gives peace. Fishermen will say that it’s not the catch that’s important, it’s the outdoors. Spending time quietly, away from cars, cellphones and crowds, is what attracts so many to fishing.
Learn how to fish or what to buy by giving these guys a call: The Boynton Beach
Fishing Club at 561-703-5638.
8. Try skimboarding… but don’t break a leg!
This is fast! You have seconds to decide whether to run after the shore wave or not. The good news: You have unlimited tries. Hold your thin skimboard, choose the wave quickly, run toward it, throw the board and jump on it. Everything happens quickly, but it’s an adrenaline rush. One you’re on the board, the challenge is to remain on it. Don’t worry, practice makes perfect.
You c an do thi s at any beach shore, just buy a skimboard.