It is no secret that Florida is a major tourist destination. Every day of each year, the state hosts visitors from around the world. Many of these visitors flock to beaches and theme parks. What many tourists don't realize is that Florida has many more hidden treasures and places to visit off the beaten path. With a little research, planning and knowledge of safety tips, visitors to the area will better enjoy all that the state has to offer.

Alternatives
Visit areas other than beaches and theme parks. The city of St. Augustine is the site of the oldest settlement in the country. Here, visitors may explore the Castillo de San Marco, the Fountain of Youth and the Florida's oldest house. The Olustee Battlefield State park was the site of the largest Civil War battle in Florida. Today, the area houses a small museum containing artifacts and information on the battle. The Ocala National Forest and the Everglades National Park contain examples of the vast differences of Florida's natural habitats and ecology. Visitors experience nature by camping, swimming and taking air boat rides through areas untouched by development.

Lightening
Beware of lightning. The highest number of lightning deaths in the United States occurs in Florida, according to National Geographic. Many golf courses and parks are equipped with lightning indicators. The devices sound a siren when dangerous lightning is in the area. Get to a safe area when you hear the siren. Use the 30/30 rule when in areas without indicators. If you see lightning, court the number of seconds until you hear thunder. Seek shelter for at least 30 minutes if the number of seconds between the lightning and thunder is less than 30.

Rip Currents
Practice water safety at the beaches and swim on beaches with lifeguards. It is also important to know how to escape rip currents. Rip currents are powerful water currents flowing away from the shore and can be deadly, according to NOAA. If caught in a rip current do not swim toward shore. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until out of the rip current and then swim safely to land. If too tired to swim, float or tread water and wave for help and wait until it arrives.

Heat
Protect yourself from heat exhaustion when in Florida. Drink plenty of fluids such as water and sports drinks. Avoid drinking alcohol as it causes dehydration. Wear a hat to protect your head from the sun. Remember to wear a high number sunscreen even when not at the beach in order to avoid sunburn.