Christmas in the Sunshine State is an experience in itself; clear blue skies and crystal clear water, fun holiday events for the whole family, and some of the best seafood on the east coast – who says Christmas is all about the turkey?
While your go-to Christmas gift ideas may be hats and scarves, that’s not going to work in Florida, so we suggest thinking outside the box and choosing something that’s not only eco-friendly and not found on the high street, but will also provide long-lasting memories. We’re talking about experience gifts, of course! With so much to see and do in Florida you can easily find an activity gift for everyone on your Christmas list, whether it’s the teenage daughter who has everything or your food-loving friends who have moved to a new neighborhood.
Have a browse of our top picks for experience gifts in Florida and make this Christmas one to remember!
| Stand Up Paddleboarding Lesson in Jacksonville
When envisioning a quintessential image of Florida, most people will think of glorious sunshine, lush greenery, and clear blue water. Make the most of all three with a one-hour beginners paddleboarding lesson in Jacksonville, discovering this new and exciting water sport on the calm waters of Big Pottsberg Creek.
Stand Up Paddleboarding has exploded onto the scene in recent years, perfectly combining serene sightseeing with outdoor adventure. Paddleboards are easy to transport and after an introductory lesson with a qualified instructor, you’ll pick up the skills and techniques in no time. With the prospect of seeing manatees, turtles, and eagles on the route, this is the ultimate Christmas experience gift for nature lovers looking to start a new hobby!
| Miami South Beach Food Tour
Known as the gateway to Latin America, Miami is a city that really packs a punch.
There’s no shortage of tours and activities that showcase the best of Miami, but our personal recommendation for an exciting Christmas gift is the South Beach Food Tour, a 2.5 hour exploration of Florida architecture, culture, and cuisine. Led by a knowledgeable local Miami tour guide, guests will experience everything from chef-prepared delicacies to side street hidden gems, visiting famous Miami landmarks and tourist hotspots along the way.
Whether you’re Christmas shopping for a Miami resident or buying a gift certificate for an upcoming vacation, you can’t go wrong with an entertaining gourmet food tour!
| Indoor Skydiving Experience in Orlando
The thought of skydiving is enough to turn some faces green, but did you know you can get the thrill of freefall without stepping foot on an airplane, all for the price of a nice Christmas sweater?
iFly in Orlando is Florida’s primary indoor skydiving location, offering guests the chance to experience the sensation of terminal velocity within a high-tech wind tunnel. Guests receive flight suits, safety briefing and training, and as many flights as your booking allows – plus a certificate at the end to prove you did it!
Indoor skydiving is suitable for ages 3+ so you can buy gift cards for the whole family, or treat an adrenaline-junkie this Christmas to a Florida experience like no other.
| Clearwater Beach Dinner Cruise
Clearwater Beach in Florida is known for its many water sports and scenic coastline, but if you’re Christmas shopping for someone who prefers luxury yachts to jet skis, this evening dinner cruise will be right up their street.
Departing opposite the famous Pier 60, the three-hour dining experience begins as the yacht sails across Clearwater Bay, past the iconic Causeway Bridge and along the Florida shoreline. On board there’s a fully stocked bar with cocktails and a great wine selection available, and entrees including Filet Mignon, Grilled Salmon, and Pork Osso Bucco to name a few. Dinner cruises are wonderfully thoughtful Christmas experience gifts for couples, perfect for viewing the Florida skyline in style!
| Inverness Stockcar Driving Experience
Looking for a Florida Christmas gift that’ll knock every other gift out the water? This Bull Ring Track Stockcar Driving Experience at the Citrus County Speedway is every car lovers dream, allowing participants the opportunity to drive a genuine Sprint Cup Style racecar for five laps of the track.
A stockcar experience is truly the ultimate Christmas gift for speed freaks and thrill-seeking Floridians, covering every aspect of the vehicle, track lines, and racing technique for an authentic driving session just like the pros. Whether you’re Christmas shopping for your Dad, Brother or car-mad Grandma, you’ll guarantee smiles all round with this incredible stockcar track day!
| Wine and Food Tasting Tour in St. Augustine
We’re finishing with a Florida experience that’s definitely only for adults; presenting the St. Augustine Wine and Dine Roadster Tour. St. Augustine is a fantastic city to explore, so whether you’re Christmas shopping for locals or visitors, they’re guaranteed to love this gourmet food tour round America’s oldest town.
The restaurants on the route have been carefully chosen for variety and to showcase the best food in the area, paired perfectly with both regional and international wines. Guests will hear fascinating anecdotes about Florida and St. Augustine history, visit five venues for food and wine pairings, and be chauffeured around in a fleet of sightseeing buggies - this tour is as classy as it is engaging, perfect for girly nights out or a romantic Christmas experience gift for couples!
| Walking Tour of Little Havana
Discover the vibrant essence of Cuba right in Miami's Little Havana! In this lively two-hour guided tour, immerse yourself in the colorful streets, visit a Cuban cigar factory, explore traditional shops and eateries, and groove to Salsa music. Learn about Cuban culture, history, and savor a complimentary Cuban coffee and pastry. Ideal for all ages, this cultural walking tour is a must-do in Miami and a perfect gift for any occasion. Whether your giftee is a local or just visiting for Christmas, they are guaranteed to enjoy this charming tour.
| Thanks for Reading!
Christmas shopping in Florida will be a breeze this year with a thoughtful experience gift, sure to please even those who already have everything. Find a gift for all your friends and family and create some new memories in the Sunshine State!
