Summer Spectacular: Top Ocean & Island Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

Posted on April 30, 2026

Images of outdoor adventures, a sunset at the beach, two people enjoying a sunset, a whale underwater, a roller coaster ride, and a zipline adventure

When the sun starts shining extra bright and the wind gets warmer, you know summer is coming. And as much as we love the heat, cooling off will never not be on the top of our bucket lists. Summer is the perfect season for vibrant family getaways and fun, intimate escapades. So, as your adventure buddy, we’re here to plan the most spectacular summer with you.

Hawaii is a spring and summer paradise. Enjoy real Hawaiian vibes with fun experiences at Pink Sails Waikiki, Holokai Catamaran, Three Tiki Sailing and Wayfind Hawaii. Want to stay fit and fabulous as you beat the heat? Yoga Floats is a unique way to spend the hottest season. But if you’re dreaming of the classic California sunshine, don’t worry. San Francisco Bay Cruise, Dana Wharf, and Catalina Island Company offer fun summer activities for you and your family. For hot thrills and cool rides, the dreamy beachside wonder of Belmont Park is a must-visit. And who can forget Florida? The Tropics Boat Tours lets you experience summer in the most enjoyable way. Ready for the ultimate ocean and island experiences this summer? We’ll take you to the hottest spots in The Aloha and the Golden State. Read on.

Enjoy Aloha-mazing Hawaiian Escapades

Because every summer lover needs a taste of Aloha.

Pink Sails Waikiki

1 Holomoana Street, Honolulu, HI 96815

FunEx Recommends: Waikiki Turtle Snorkeling Adventure.

Boat tours are always cool, but when you add some touches of pink, it becomes chic. Pink Sails Waikiki is the very definition of a dreamy Honolulu getaway. True to its name, this experience features pink catamarans, perfect for a magical summer along the Waikiki Coastline.

Invite your family and friends for an exciting day of snorkeling with Hawaiian green sea turtles. This activity is great for everyone. You can discover the clear waters of Waikiki and see wonderful sea creatures up close. A team of experienced guides will be present to assist you. And do you know what’s even cooler? Pink Sails Waikiki offers a Turtle Sighting Guarantee. No turtles in sight? Your next visit is free. Wonderful.

A collage of six images showing sea turtles swimming, people jumping from a boat, a boat on the water, a sailboat, a whale breaching, and a woman enjoying drinks on a boat.

Holokai Catamaran

2169 Kālia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815

FunEx Recommends: Sunset Sail and Waikiki Humpback Whale Watching with Open Bar.

Bright morning and afternoon sunshine aside, the Hawaiian sunset is no less than iconic. And if you want to experience its full glory, Holokai Catamaran has got you covered. Offering the best and most captivating cruises along Honolulu, it’s a must-try experience for summer lovers of all ages.

Sunset Sail is an excellent way to witness the mesmerizing Hawaiian sunset while sailing from Waikiki. This experience offers all-inclusive drinks and an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. First time sailing? Don't worry, as this cruise also provides motion sickness aid and reef-safe sunscreen. Talk about protecting their guests while having fun. Other experiences provide exclusive whale-watching adventures. Summer in Hawaii has never been this exciting.

Three Tiki Sailing

95 Holomoana St, Honolulu, HI 96815

FunEx Recommends: Waikiki Turtle Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon and BYOB Sunset Sail in Waikiki.

Kids love summer, and when they hear “snorkel”, they go extra hyped for sure. Three Tiki Sailing is a fantastic choice for families with little ocean explorers. Turtle Canyons, Oahu’s premier snorkeling spot, features clear waters and a vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Get ready to swim with colorful tropical fishes and Hawaiian sea turtles. Known for its turtle cleaning station, it provides a unique snorkeling experience. Guests then sail back to the harbor, enjoying sights of Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline. Just like Pink Sails Waikiki, Three Tiki Sailing also has a Turtle Guarantee. So in case you don’t spot those majestic creatures on your visit, your next adventure is on them.

Collection of images showing a woman on boat, sailboat on ocean, colorful fish underwater, volcanic eruption, waterfall in lush forest, and a canyon with cloudy sky

Wayfind Hawaii

74-5577 Palani Rd #1898, Kailua-Kona, HI 96745

FunEx Recommends: Private Big Island Tour: Volcano, Waterfalls & Black Sand, and Big Island Group Tour: Volcano, Waterfalls & Coffee.

You can either find your way in Hawaii or choose Wayfind Hawaii. Word play aside, Wayfind will absolutely help you find your way to a memorable summer getaway. Keep your flippers and swimwear for a day or two because we’re hitting the land this time! Wayfind Hawaii takes you to the wonders of the Big Island and a step closer to nature. Who said beaches and waters are the only summer spots to visit? Hawaii’s Big Island has so many lovely spots you can explore.

Discover Kīlauea Volcano's geological strength, admire Akaka Falls, visit Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, and cap off your trip with flexible stops in Hilo. You’ll love the easy-to-manage itinerary, adjustable timing, and extra photo ops your knowledgeable guide might suggest. This special tour guarantees a memorable adventure with personalized care and local tips.

Yoga Floats

Magic Island, Ala Moana Blvd Park, Honolulu, HI 96814

FunEx Recommends: Sunset SUP Yoga and Light Up the Night Paddle Board Yoga Class.

People practicing yoga poses on and around water at a beach or lake during daylight and sunset.

Summer fun and fitness can go well together. In fact, these two can make your summer even more amazing. Yoga Floats offers a unique experience that lets you feel the summer zen while staying fit. Combining the art of meditation and magnificent ocean views, it’s a must-try summer activity in Hawaii.

For the most intimate and relaxing feeling, soak in the warmth of Honolulu with the Sunset SUP Yoga. This soothing yoga class gives you a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset. Great for all skill levels, it’s a perfect way to engage with nature and embrace peace. It’s the right balance of summer fun and relaxation that you and your pals will surely enjoy!

Soak in California Sunshine and Thrills

Creating golden summer memories in the Golden State.

San Francisco Bay Cruise-Red and White Fleet

Pier 43 1/2, San Francisco CA 94133

FunEx Recommends: Golden Gate Bay Cruise and Whales of the Bay.

If you are exploring SanFo for the first time this summer, a San Francisco Bay Cruise is the way to go. This experience gives you a quick and clear look at the best of the city. You can enjoy the lasting charm of San Francisco on this one-hour cruise along the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge. Think this adventure is not enough to appreciate SanFo? Go for a whale-tastic escape with the Whales of the Bay.

Get ready for an unforgettable 2.5-hour whale watch tour with the Pacific Whale Foundation, starting from Fisherman’s Wharf. Hop on a high-tech hybrid electric passenger vessel and enjoy live narration from a naturalist. Go on the lookout for Gray, Humpback, and Blue Whales, as well as seals, sea lions, seabirds, and other local wildlife. Marvel at the amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the rugged Marin Headlands. It’s a moment you should not miss!

Collection of images showcasing boats, a bridge, people, and a dolphin on the water at Dana Wharf San Pedro California

Dana Wharf Sportfishing, Whale Watching & Wine Cruises

34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629

FunEx Recommends: ½ Day & Twilight Fishing Trip and Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour

Speaking of whale-watching and fishing, Dana Wharf is another must-visit spot if you’re at Dana Point. Sure enough, Dana Wharf is all about sea adventures that go beyond just whale watching. Make summer more thrilling and reward yourself with fresh catches!

The half-day and twilight fishing trips are perfect for family getaways. From beginners to fishing experts, participants are guaranteed to enjoy breathtaking views and full buckets! You never have to worry about fishing, because friendly and knowledgeable crew members will assist you. Of course, if you want to make the most of your Dana Point trip, join the Dolphin & Whale Watching to spot amazing whale species and dolphins. There’s some occasional sea lions and seafaring birds spotting too!

Belmont Park

3146 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109

FunEx Recommends: Zero Gravity, Flip Out, and FIT Mission Beach.

Amusement park for summer? Why not? No beach experience is ever complete without some beachfront theme park fun. Belmont Park is an oceanfront wonder located directly on the boardwalk at Mission Beach. Apart from its breathtaking location, it offers a whole lot of thrills and fun for all ages. The Giant Dipper Rollercoaster and the Beach Blaster are just two of its iconic rides. What’s even better than diving into the adrenaline with sparkling ocean views?

Belmont Park also invites you to stay healthy and fit in style this summer. FIT Mission Beach offers a unique fitness hub with stunning Mission Beach views and well-equipped workout facilities. Yoga on the beach and rooftop workouts are very popular. For next-level relaxation, FIT Mission Beach also features steam rooms, saunas, and cold plunges. What an exciting and fancy way to get fit and pampered.

Collage of outdoor experiences including amusement park rides, a mountain landscape, and kayaking on the ocean

Catalina Island Company

150 Metropole Ave, Avalon, CA 90704

FunEx Recommends: Snorkeling at Lover’s Cove, Bison Expedition, and Catalina Zipline Eco Tour.

Here’s for everyone who wants to level up their summer adventures. Catalina Island is a sanctuary that will lead you to the most memorable summer escapades. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor summer activities, Catalina brings the land, water, and island closer than ever.

Catalina Island is great in summer for ziplining, snorkeling at Lover's Cove, and relaxing at Descanso Beach Club. Rent a golf cart to see Avalon, visit the Catalina Casino, or take a boat trip for flying fish. Families can enjoy some free beach bingo and watch movies during the summer series. Kids will also enjoy the Golf Gardens Mini Golf and the Glass Bottom Boat Voyage. For a wild twist to your summer escape, the Bison Expedition is an unmissable treat!

Feel the Heat in Fantastic Florida

Fiery hot season? Florida is the place to be.

The Tropics Boat Tours

25 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767

FunEx Recommends: Sunset Celebration Cruise and Dolphin Exploration Tour

Group of people watching a sunset over the ocean, a dolphin jumping out of the water, a boat on the water, colorful drinks with tropical logos, and a city skyline.

Enjoy summer in Florida at Clearwater Beach with The Tropics Boat Tours, named the Best Outdoor Activity in the area. Hop onto a Dolphin Exploration Tour or a Sunset Celebration Cruise aboard a double-decker catamaran. Relax in the shade or soak up the sun. Enjoy a fantastic day on the water with wildlife stories and beautiful views.

The Tropics Boat Tours lets you witness the natural allure of Florida’s cool, crystal-clear waters. It also offers a Dolphin Guarantee, so guests will be 100% sure they can spot those playful creatures! This summer experience is best for families with kids who adore marine life. It’s always amazing to immerse them in the wonders of nature, so start ‘em young!

Beat the summer heat with these affordable adventures!

The hot and sunny season is about to kick off soon: are you ready? The US is packed with incredible summer destinations for unforgettable getaways with you and your family. Sizzle your way to these fantastic attractions without breaking the bank. Grab your discount tickets in advance to enjoy the hottest deals.

This is just the beginning of a season-long guide to remarkable summer escapades you can’t miss. Plan the ultimate summer sesh in your favorite spots, and with your favorite people. We’re here to create the best bucket lists with you. Have a phenomenal summer adventure, FunExplorers!