5 ways to enjoy the day at Wekiva Island

The sun is out, the temperature is rising, and summer is officially right around the corner. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Orlando with kids out of school or Orlando activities worthy of a staycation, you’re going to want to make the most of summer in the Sunshine State.

Enter Wekiva Island! We might be a little biased, but there is honestly so much to do when you visit our little slice of paradise near Orlando. From a cool Orlando date night spot to something more adventurous like Wekiva River kayaking, we’ve got it all.

Here are some of our top picks for the perfect summer outing.

Hot sun, cool water

When the temperature rises in the summer, many Floridians flock to the beach. Those in Central Florida might not even realize that their own version of fun in the sun is right around the corner! If your summer plans involve lounging, lounging, and more lounging, we have THE top spot in all of Central Florida. Arrive early and stake out your own Adirondack chair by the Wekiva River or soak in the sun along our wooden boardwalk. When it gets hot, the cool, always refreshing waters of the Wekiva are just a step away. This river flows directly from one of the popular Orlando springs, and it’s always 72 degrees. It’s easy to enjoy Wekiva Island by spending the day sitting riverside.

Your own personal oasis

Who doesn’t want to feel like a VIP? At Wekiva Island, we have the perfect way. Reserve one of our awesome riverside cabanas and soak in your own personal oasis for the day! We offer 11 Orlando cabanas to fit your needs, plus a variety of special Orlando event venues. Renting a cabana means you get a reserved space for your group to enjoy Wekiva Island in a shaded lounge area with outdoor furniture, and two reserved parking spots (an awesome amenity during the busy summer months). You also get a grill, cooler and water, and you can bring in food and non-alcoholic beverages for the perfect day on the water. We have hosted everything from birthday parties and bridal showers to fun friend hangouts, so if you’re looking for a spot for your crew, this could be the perfect place.

A day on the river

If visiting the springs in Orlando is on your Florida bucket list, we have the perfect day for you.  We offer Wekiva Springs kayak rentals, Orlando canoe rentals and paddleboarding in Orlando all right from our Island shores. Stop by our rental window to pick your vessel, then head out on the Wekiva River. Turning left from Wekiva Island allows you to take a short paddle over to Wekiwa Springs State Park. You can stop there to enjoy the springs and explore—just don’t forget to pay the entry fee and take your paddle so you have a ride back! If you turn right from Wekiva Island, you can head down the river as far as your arms can take you. But remember, the river is not a circle. As far as you head down, you must paddle back—and it’s upstream on the way back. Trust us, though. The effort is worth it, and either way, you’re in for a beautiful day exploring the real, wild Florida. Keep your eyes peeled for alligator, birds, and even bears and deer.

Make it about the family

With school out and PTO stocked, the entire family can spend some much-needed quality time together. Wekiva Island offers plenty of chances to do that. Bring a volleyball and go head-to-head on our sand court. Or play a quick match of cornhole! If the family is looking to do something a little more low-key, grab a float (or buy one at our General Store) and pump it up onsite. Then, float and splash around in the river. When you’ve worked up an appetite, Without a Paddle Café has options for every palate, so you’ll all leave full, relaxed and happy.

Make it a date night

Summer doesn’t have to mean soaking up the sun. Summer nights can be just as fun! After 4 p.m., the Island has a totally different and fun vibe. Grab a bite to eat and a glass of wine and visit our Orlando art gallery, Gallery CERO. Or, grab a beer at our indoor/outdoor bar and take in some live music. We’ve got awesome acts every Friday and Saturday night. No matter what vibe you’re after, Wekiva Island makes for a fun and relaxing date night.

So there you have it—a full summer’s worth of things to do in Florida. What’s your favorite way to enjoy Wekiva Island? Click here to plan your visit, and be sure to stop by soon.