While Miami is known for relaxing holidays and rocking nightlife, the city also has a wide variety of thrills for daredevils and adventure seekers -- some of which you won't find anywhere else. Need a little more excitement on vacation? Here are five reasons Miami should be next on your trip list.
1. Dive an underwater cemetery at Neptune Memorial Reef
Dive deep into the depths of Biscayne Bay to discover Miami's version of Atlantis. Neptune Memorial Reef is one of the largest man-made reefs in the world and doubles as an underwater mausoleum. Cremated remains mixed with cement form the reef's winding underwater roads, benches, and sanctuary across 16 acres (and still growing). Adventurers can snorkel (or, with the right certification, dive) the site surrounded by South Florida's diverse sea life.
2. Gator-spot in the Everglades
Fly over the Everglades at high speeds on one of Gator Park's airboats. If the speed doesn't get hearts pounding, the region's 200,000 alligators, venomous snakes, and Florida panthers should do the trick. The wetlands also house American crocodiles, large mouth bass, catfish, and dozens of species of birds, all of which can be spotted while cruising across the water.
3. Mountain bike at Oleta River State Park
Those with a competitive streak will relish off-roading through Oleta River State Park's 1,043 acres. The rugged trails offer varying degrees of difficulty and landscapes, including a fern forest and lagoon. Blue Moon Outdoor activity center also offers kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in the park.
4. Catch a bird's eye view
Lounging on Miami's famous beaches might not do it for wannabe aerialists. Catch a view from several hundred feet up with a seaplane or helicopter charter for 360-degree views of Miami's coast and skyline.
5. Parasail the coastline
Defy gravity over the water and try one of the numerous parasailing options along Miami's waterfront. There's nothing like floating above the sea with an endless coastline view. The outlook from up top is great for spotting sea creatures like turtles, stingrays, and dolphins, and is great for birds-eye people watching!