11 Major Mistakes to Avoid on a Florida Vacation, According to a Longtime Floridian

If there's any state whose reputation precedes it, perhaps it's Florida. And while you might think you know our beaches, theme parks and all the family fun that awaits around every corner here, there's always another surprise in store in this state known for outdoor adventures, watery escapades and cool little beach towns you can enjoy all year long.  As a longtime Floridian, I'm here to tell you, too, that you might not know the Sunshine State as well as you think. Do you know why we keep our lights out on the beach for several months of the year? Or where to go to paddle a kayak through a lagoon that glows blue in the night? And have you tried our sustainable crustacean that's tastiest plunged into creamy mustard sauce? Read on for Florida vacation mistakes to avoid on your next Florida vacation–they come with some ideas, too, for places to go and cool activities you probably didn't even know you could get up to here.