The Intracoastal Waterway offers more than just beautiful scenery! I’ve traveled a lot and have enjoyed boating the Intercoastal Waterway — because there is so much to see and do. Here are my suggestions for how to plan your boat trip, navigate the canals on your own, plus tips for eating and sleeping along the way.
Water Fun
Whether you're interested in cruising, canoeing, beaching, boating, swimming, or sailing... you've come to the right place! We've got some clever ideas for having fun on the water -- at home AND on vacation! Here are some fun ways to enjoy all types of water from oceans and lakes to rivers and swimming pools.
Spruce Flats Falls In East Tennessee: Here’s What It’s Like To Hike Spruce Flats Falls Trail AND What The Swimming Hole & Waterfalls Are Like!
The Spruce Flats Falls trail is rated “moderate” because some portions are rocky and steep… and there are lots of exposed tree roots that are easy to trip over. The hike to the waterfall definitely requires some effort. It’s almost a 1.5-mile round trip. It took us 30 minutes to hike to the falls carrying my toddler son in his hiking carrier. The Spruce Flats Falls hike (with time spent at the swimming hole and waterfalls) takes about 2 hours. See my best tips before you go…
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing Review: Here’s What To Expect Your First Time River Tubing With River Rat In Townsend TN… Or With ANY Outfitter!
East Tennessee is hot, and when you’re looking for a way to cool down with your family and friends, floating down the river is where it’s at! For me, the River Rat Tubing season pass was a no brainer — because it’s the most convenient way to get on the water without the commitment, logistics, or work of a canoe or kayak. Our entire party of 10 people (including teens and toddlers) had a blast their first time there, and I’ve been tubing with River Rat several times now.
My Tips For Hiking Ozone Falls, Getting The Best View Of The Waterfall, Picnicking, And Swimming There With Kids & Dogs
One of my favorite waterfalls in Tennessee is Ozone Falls. With 2 dogs and 2 kids, my friend and I enjoyed a full day of hiking, swimming, picnicking, and sightseeing at Ozone Falls! Here’s what you can expect, and a few things that are good to know before you go…
My Favorite Things Do In Virginia Beach For History Buffs… Or Anyone Who Enjoys Visiting Coastal Towns
Virginia Beach is a neat place to visit. If you’re a history buff as I am, you’ll have plenty of reasons to fall in love with Virginia Beach! Low-flying fighter jets are a common sight. So are wild horses, historic lighthouses, state parks, wave surfers, and beachgoers. I’m going to share with you my all-time favorite things to do in Virginia Beach, VA.
My Favorite Things To Do In Cedar Key, FL – A Place Where Tourists & Snowbirds Can Enjoy A Slice Of Yesteryear!
Looking for things to do in Cedar Key, FL? It’s a cool vacation town in North Florida with plenty of things for nature lovers to see, tourists to do, and seafood foodies to enjoy!
Hiking With Baby: How To Find Hiking Trails That Are Baby-Friendly (And Dog-Friendly) + Tips For Exploring Nature With Your Toddler
I highly recommend starting the love of nature early with your baby! I usually hit the hiking trail with my son on my back and my 2 dogs by my side. Here’s a list of all the essentials you’ll need to hike with your baby without weighing yourself down. All of my best tips for hiking with baby…
Jennifer Lawrence Breaks The Taboo Of ‘Women Peeing Standing Up’… Because When You Gotta Go, You Gotta Go!
Say what? A female urination device? You’ve got to be kidding! Nope, I’m not. A pee funnel is popular with actresses, brides, and female outdoor enthusiasts. I bet you’ve said, ‘If only I could pee standing up!’ at least once. Try a pee funnel like Jennifer Lawrence did. It’s quicker, easier, and cleaner.
Before You Go To Aruba… Lessons Learned From Our Vacation In Aruba
Going to Aruba soon? Here’s everything you want to know about Aruba vacations — and I mean everything! We’ve been twice and we’re planning our third trip now. Here’s what to do, what to drink, where to eat, fun things to do on the water, what to pack, and how the money works in Aruba.
10 Best Beaches In The U.S. That Should Be On Your Bucket List
Love visiting and/or vacationing on the water? Here are my picks for the best beaches in the U.S. that you’ll definitely want to see! For your bucket list.
Canoeing in Florida – A Fun (And Cheap) Nature Adventure In The Sunshine State
Want to go on a fun and cheap nature adventure in Florida? Canoeing is one of the best ways to see the Sunshine State from a completely different angle – and I (almost) promise you’ll see an alligator!
How To Swim With Manatees In Florida
Have you ever wanted to swim with manatees? This article explains exactly how you can legally go swimming with manatees as well as where and when you can do this fun and unique activity.
Parasailing in Florida – A Unique, Once-In-A-Lifetime Thrill You Won’t Find At Any Theme Park
if you have ever thought about going parasailing in Florida, then you will want to check out this guide on what to look for when shopping around for parasail operators and what you can expect when you’re enjoying the experience.
Explore A Florida Sinkhole: Blue Grotto Springs In Williston, FL
Deep in the woodlands of the Sunshine State is Blue Grotto, a Florida sinkhole that serves as an ideal spot for open water divers and geological explorers. Find out more about this unique natural landmark and where you can find it during your next road trip in North Central Florida.
Bali Vacation Tips: An Essential Guide
While some people are skeptical about visiting Indonesia due to safety concerns, Bali is really different from the rest of the country. Here are insider tips for visiting Bali and enjoying the beaches, the food, and fun family activities.
Florida State Parks: Fun (and Cheap!) Natural Alternatives to Orlando Amusement Parks
Florida state parks are the natural (and cheaper) alternative to theme parks, and afford a plethora of opportunities for sun and fun.
How To Find The Best Discount Travel Deals For January & February
Did you know?… January is a great month to find great travel deals — especially the first few weeks of January. The best time to book a January trip is right now — mid to late December.
Warning To Parents: Is Your Child’s Summer Camp Safe?
Your child may not be as safe as you thought he would be when you sent him to summer camp. Here’s what parents need to know BEFORE sending your kids off to summer camp!…
Pontoon Boats Are A Lot Like Jeeps… FUN To Rent For A Day!
Have you ever considered renting a pontoon boat for a little off-road fun afloat?… We’ve done this on several occasions. Here are some pictures and highlights — especially if you plan to go pontooning in the Nashville area. The best part: Take a couple friends with you, and it’s a fairly inexpensive way to have a good time on the water!
Meet The Real ‘Flipper’ Dolphin
This is the actual “Flipper” from the 1996 movie! Today, he resides in the Bahamas and brings joy to thousands of people each year when they come just to swim with him. This “swimming with the dolphins” adventure was one of the excursions available with our Royal Caribbean cruise. Our last stop was in the […]
NYC & Caribbean Cruise Vacation Highlights
Here are all the fun details about two of my all-time-favorite vacations: a Caribbean Cruise, and an all-expense-paid trip to New York City!
Top 10 Camping Tips: Our Best Recommendations For New Campers
Worried about surviving your first — or your next — camping trip? If you’re wondering what to take camping I’m your girl. I’m giving you ideas and reviews for choosing the best camping gear, a list of must bring items, and other helpful camping tips. Following these tips will enhance your experience — trust me — because I love to camp!
Mr. Paranoid Of The Ocean Guy – He’s Not Willing To Take The Plunge
While Jim was napping on the raft in the pool, I woke him up by trying to flip over his raft… But he managed to hold on for dear life! And on a related note, you might enjoy this… Listen to Bud Light’s Real Men of Genius ”Mr. Paranoid of the Ocean Guy”: LynnetteI like […]
