Dolphin Explorer – This amazing eco-tour lets you participate in the study of wild dolphins aboard the Dolphin Explorer, a 30-foot catamaran perfect for getting up close to observe marine life. The study, 10,000 Islands Dolphin Project, is the only ongoing study of wild dolphins in Southwest Florida and the only in the United States that engages the general public. Your family will join the Survey Crew on a three-hour expedition in sighting and studying dolphins – more than 200 are named and cataloged. You’ll learn their names and what they’re doing. And when you sight a new dolphin, you'll get to name it!

The tour also includes a stop at a barrier island beach where you can collect seashells. There’s seating with shade aboard for children (as well as a bathroom) and your trip comes with complimentary beverages and shelling bags. There are two survey trips daily, at 9am and 1pm. The tours usually sell out so advance purchase is strongly suggested. And don’t forget your camera!

Airboat Adventure – An airboat ride through the Everglades is an exciting experience the whole family can enjoy. These boats easily navigate shallow waters and do sweeping turns, providing an exciting view of the coastal wildlife and an exhilarating ride. You're sure to see alligators and many different types of wading birds. Many captains provide a running commentary on the area's amazing eco-system, making the ride as educational and it is entertaining.
 
Everglades National Park – Explore this international treasure, the only subtropical preserve in North America and part of the country’s largest wetlands ecosystem. The diverse habitats allow you to enjoy hiking, canoeing and kayaking, biking, fresh and saltwater fishing and camping in the ultimate wilderness. The Paradise Coast is home to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center located in Everglades City, which is the only visitor center within the national park that is free – no entry fee required. Boat tours are available to take you out into the saltwater mangrove estuary portion of the park where you'll spot bottlenose dolphins and numerous bird species, including osprey, herons, egrets and more.

Sun-N-Fun Lagoon – Summer vacation just wouldn’t be complete without at least one visit to a water park. The Sun-N-Fun Lagoon boasts:
• Sunny’s River – a 1,200-foot lazy river that you can float on in a tube as it meanders
around the park
• Water slides – five different slides ranging from 200 to 350 feet in length, starting at the 38-foot tall water tower (for those 48” or taller)
• Family pool – oversized and only four feet deep
• Tadpole pool – a toddler activity pool for ages six and under, with an oversized fish water slide, swings and other fun features
• Turtle Cove – a children's activity pool for ages five to 12, with water guns, lily pads and more
• Interactive water features – water dumping buckets, water pistols and fountains

King Richards Fun Park – Treat the kids to a variety of rides and games for all ages with bumper boats, go-carts, a kids’ roller coaster, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, batting cages, miniature golf and interactive video games. There’s even fun for adults: happy hour Monday through Friday, 4pm to 7pm.

Naples Marina & Excursions – From eco-tours to helicopter rides, paddle boarding to diving, there’s plenty of family-friendly outdoor fun to choose from here.

Fishing – Summer is a great time to fish on the Paradise Coast and your family is sure to experience plenty of angling excitement. Both Cruise Naples and Naples Marina & Excursions (mentioned above) offer fishing excursions – along with many other guides and charters in the area. Many offer combination trips that can include a stop on a barrier island for shelling, sightseeing and more, so even the non-fishing members of your clan have something to enjoy.

For more fun ideas on what to see and do, check out our Summer Fun Guide. Find all of the Preferred Pass deals on hotels, attractions, spas, golf and more at ParadiseCoast.com/Deals. Also for your planning ease, read more about our children’s programs at area resorts that provide fun activities for your kids and a much-needed break for you. We look forward to making your family time on the Paradise Coast the best time ever.