An algal bloom can turn your dream beach trip into a murky mess. You might have to hold off on those plans for now. Here’s how to switch it up between aquariums, NASA tours, casinos, and some fun beach options, all while keeping your Florida adventure intact.
The population of algae in water systems rapidly increases during an algal bloom, making lakes, rivers and coastal areas green, brown or red. They may release toxins that harm people, marine life and pets. Its warm climate, nutrient-rich water and seasonal weather make Florida a hotspot for these events. But they don’t need to ruin your day. A little creativity and you can still enjoy the Sunshine State. Here are five things to do when the algae hits – and an answer to why it keeps happening.
1. Test Your Luck in the Casino
For adult entertainment, Florida has its casinos. Slot machines, table games, and live dealer action can be found at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood. The high energy casino and its opulent amenities make it an alternative to the beach.
Those who wish to stay in may choose online casinos. Several platforms offer live dealer games where you interact with real dealers via video stream. Follow expert advice on online casinos to find out what games are trending. Enjoy gambling without leaving your accommodation.
2. Subscribe to Weekly Updates
FL DEP provides weekly algal bloom updates. These reports on satellite imagery, water sample results, and bloom potential assessment for key areas like Lake Okeechobee and the Caloosahatchee Estuary.
Subscribe to these updates to plan your activities. If for example, blooms are concentrated in one region, you might visit another part of the state. Being informed lets you make the most of your trip – even when conditions change.
2. Explore Florida’s World-Class Aquariums
Forget the beach – visit one of Florida’s aquariums. The Florida Aquarium in Tampa has over 14,000 aquatic plants and animals. It has interactive exhibits and conservation programs for families.
A second is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which has rescued dolphins, sea turtles and otters. Even take a tour of marine animal rehabilitation. Such aquariums let people observe marine life without actually going into the water.
3. Blast Off with a Visit to NASA
For something more unusual, visit the Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s Space Coast. This iconic destination is a window to the history and future of space exploration. Meet real spacecraft, astronauts, and – if you’re lucky – even a rocket launch.
The Space Center offers bus tours to launch pads and the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where you can stand under a Saturn V rocket. That’s an educational and amazing way to spend a day – far from the algae-covered shores.
4. Live Like a Star on a Budget
Not everyone wants a five-star resort to feel luxurious. Hire a beach front apartment or villa with pool. Several properties have spectacular views and upscale amenities for a lower price than a hotel rate.
Take a gourmet picnic to your balcony or local park. A bottle of sparkling wine or craft cocktail will make the experience even better. Although not allowed in the water, the sound of the waves and ocean breeze can still make you feel like you’re living the high life.
5. Find Creative Beach Alternatives
You can still enjoy the coast by doing things not directly related to water. Hire a kayak or paddleboard to see mangrove tunnels or inland waterways. Such areas are often less influenced by algal blooms and provide another perspective on Florida nature.
Or take a sunset cruise. Others operate eco-tours focusing on wildlife spotting and scenic views. Get the ocean experience without algae!
Learning About Algal Blooms
The algae get out of control due to excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients come from agricultural runoff, wastewater and stormwater. A problem made worse by Florida’s shallow waterways and warm temperatures that encourage algae growth.
All algal blooms are harmful, but some produce toxins that cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and other health problems. This is caused by cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae. If they appear, they can make swimming, fishing or walking along the shore unpleasant – or unsafe.
Why Does This Happen Year After Year?
Florida’s geography and climate cause algal blooms to recur annually. A network of lakes, rivers and estuaries throughout the state lets water that is rich in nutrients enter coastal areas. Heavy rain during the rainy season washes fertilizers and other pollutants into these water systems.
A major contributor is Lake Okeechobee, one of Florida’s largest lakes. To manage flood risks, water from the lake is sometimes discharged into the Caloosahatchee and St. That discharge carries nutrients to the algal blooms downstream. These conditions and Florida’s year-round warmth make for an ideal environment for algae growth.
Not every algal bloom spells disaster on your Florida vacation. A little flexibility makes an unexpected challenge an opportunity to try new things. There are so many ways to enjoy Florida – whether you visit an aquarium, NASA, or play slots at a casino. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure – algae or no algae.
