Stories

On Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee, Father’s Day outing can be as laid-back or action-packed as dad wants it to be. A family getaway can be spent fishing, boating, playing golf, hitting the trails or simply watching the sunset along the Gulf.

It is also the perfect place to plan a guys’ trip, with outdoor adventures, sports, motorsports, fishing, golf, craft beverages and plenty of room to enjoy Florida’s natural side. Whether you are celebrating Dad, gathering the brothers, planning a weekend with friends or looking for an easy daytrip from Tampa or Orlando, Florida’s Adventure Coast offers plenty of ways to get outdoors and make great memories together.

Plan a Father’s Day Trip on Florida’s Adventure Coast

Skip the usual gifts and give Dad something he can actually enjoy; time on the water, a round of golf, an off-road ride, a cold beverage from a local brewery, or a day built around his favorite hobbies. Start with one activity or turn it into a full weekend itinerary.

A guys’ day on Florida’s Adventure Coast can include:

• Fishing and boating from Hernando Beach, Bayport or other local launch points
• Golf at Cabot Citrus Farms and other Brooksville Ridge courses
• Automotive fun and events at Lead Foot City
• Off-highway riding at Croom Motorcycle Area
• Mountain biking in  the Withlacoochee State Forest
• Craft beer, wine, spirits and great local restaurants
• Camping, hiking, paddling and other outdoor adventures

Go Fishing or Boating Along the Coast

Dads who love fishing can enjoy nearshore, offshore and freshwater fishing on Florida’s Adventure Coast. Looking for a fishing pier or easy launch point? Local favorites include Bayport Park, Jenkins Creek Boat Ramp and Linda Pedersen Park for nearshore fishing and coastal views.

Would Dad rather spend a leisurely day fishing at a local lake? Try Lake Lindsey, where largemouth bass are popular, or Silver Lake Recreation Area where anglers can cast for largemouth bass, crappie and bream  with nearby access to the Withlacoochee River.

For an offshore fishing trip, hire a local fishing guide or cast yourself into adventure with help from area bait and tackle shops. Boating is another great way to spend the day, with local ramps, marinas and services that make it easy to explore rivers, lakes and coastal waters.

Tee Off ON THE BROOKSVILLE RIDGE

For a Father’s Day activity with a little friendly competition, head to the golf course. Unlike the flatter coastal regions of the state, the Brooksville Ridge is characterized by rolling hills and elevation changes, ideal for distinctive golf course design. Courses along the ridge like Silverthorn Golf Club, Brooksville Country Club, and Hernando Oaks provide a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment for golfers of all levels. Southern Hills Country Club is also a favorite among competitive golfers, with it’s Pete Dye course rated as one of the top 100 residential courses in the United States by Golf Week.

The standout destination is Cabot Citrus Farms in Brooksville, where rolling terrain, sandy soil and the natural beauty of the Brooksville Ridge create a golf experience unlike any other. Cabot Citrus Farms features two 18-hole courses, one 10-hole course, an 11-hole par-3 course and also offers dining and accommodations. It is a top choice for golfers planning a full weekend, a Father’s Day round or a guys’ trip.

Rev Things Up at Lead Foot City

For the dad who loves cars, trucks, engines and high-octane fun, Lead Foot City in Brooksville is a must. Touted as an ‘automotive theme park,’ Lead Foot City brings together car culture, events, entertainment and plenty of horsepower.

Depending on the event schedule, visitors may find drag races, burnout competitions, drift events, car shows, concerts, festivals and other attractions that dad will love. It is a natural fit for a guys’ trip, especially for groups that want to add something unique and exciting between outdoor adventures.

Pair a morning of fishing or golf with an afternoon at Lead Foot City, then round out the day with dinner and drinks nearby.

Ride at Croom Motorcycle Area

For thrill-seeking dads, Croom Motorcycle Area offers an unforgettable off-road adventure in the Withlacoochee State Forest. This designated riding area features miles of trails for off-road motorbikes  and ATVs, with terrain that ranges from easy to challenging.

Croom is a favorite for riders who want to spend the day surrounded by forest, sandhills and wide-open outdoor fun. The area includes shaded riding trails, training spaces, a young rider area, picnic tables and a campground.

Before visiting, be sure to review current rules, permits, safety requirements and riding conditions. Local rentals can deliver ATVs to you and provide everything needed for a safe day on the trails.

Go Mountain Biking in the Croom Forest

The Croom Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest is also one a hidden gem for mountain biking and off-road cycling. Riders can enjoy forested trails with sharp turns and elevation changes that may surprise anyone who thinks Florida riding is always flat. For those who prefer a smoother route, the Withlacoochee State Trail offers miles of paved path through small towns, ranchlands and forests, with access to the Good Neighbor Trail in Brooksville.

Raise a Glass with Local Craft Beverages

After a day outside, slow things down with a local craft beverage. From frothy beer flights to Florida-made rum and whiskey, Florida’s Adventure Coast offers several ways to toast.

Head to Marker 48 Brewing, Tidal Brewing Co. or Broad Street Brewing for craft beer in relaxed, welcoming spaces. For something off the beaten path, venture out to NJoy Spirits Distillery, located within the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area, where Florida-made spirits meet a peaceful forest setting.

Build Your Father’s Day Weekend Itinerary

Need a little inspiration? Try one of these easy trip ideas:

For the outdoorsy dad:

• Morning fishing charter
• Lunch near the coast
• Afternoon boating or paddling
• Sunset at Bayport or Pine Island Beach

For the golfer:

• Tee time at Cabot Citrus Farms
• Lunch or drinks after the round
• Dinner in Brooksville
• Overnight stay for a second day of golf

For the high-energy dad:

• Off-road riding at Croom Motorcycle Area
• Attend an event at Lead Foot City
• Casual dinner and local craft beer

For the trail-loving group:

• Morning mountain biking in the Croom Tract
• Scenic ride on the Withlacoochee State Trail
• Brewery or distillery stop
• Dinner with the crew in downtown Brooksville

Celebrate Father’s Day with Adventure

This Father’s Day, skip the clichés and give Dad a day built around the things he loves most. From fishing and boating to golf, motorsports, mountain biking and local flavor, Florida’s Adventure Coast is full of ways to spend time together in the great outdoors.

Whether you are planning a simple Father’s Day trip or a full guys’ weekend, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee offers the kind of Father’s Day getaway that is easy to enjoy, easy to personalize and well worth exploring.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Father’s Day activities on Florida’s Adventure Coast?

Top Father’s Day activities include fishing, boating, golfing at Cabot Citrus Farms, visiting Lead Foot City, riding at Croom Motorcycle Area, mountain biking in the Croom Tract and enjoying local breweries, wineries, distilleries and restaurants.

Is Florida’s Adventure Coast good for a guys’ trip?

Yes. Florida’s Adventure Coast is a great destination for a guys’ trip, especially for visitors interested in outdoor recreation, fishing, boating, golf, motorsports, off-road riding, cycling, craft beverages and casual dining.

Where can you go fishing on Florida’s Adventure Coast?

Visitors can fish along the coast at places like Bayport Park, Jenkins Creek Boat Ramp and Linda Pedersen Park, or enjoy freshwater fishing at Lake Lindsey and Silver Lake Recreation Area. Guided fishing charters are also available.

What is the best golf destination for Father’s Day in Brooksville?

Cabot Citrus Farms is a premier golf destination in Brooksville, offering multiple courses, practice facilities, dining, lodging and off-course activities. It is a standout choice for Father’s Day golf or a golf weekend on Florida’s Adventure Coast.

Can you ride ATVs or dirt bikes on Florida’s Adventure Coast?

Yes. Croom Motorcycle Area in the Withlacoochee State Forest is a designated area for off-highway motorcycles and ATVs. Riders should check current permit requirements, safety rules and operating conditions before visiting.

Is there mountain biking near Brooksville, Florida?

Yes. The Croom Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest offers mountain biking and off-road cycling, while the Withlacoochee State Trail provides a long paved route for cyclists looking for a scenic ride.

How far is Florida’s Adventure Coast from Tampa?

Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee is about an hour north of Tampa, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway for Father’s Day, outdoor adventure and guys’ trips.