Summers in South Florida often get a less-than-glamorous reputation. Almost immediately, hurricane season rolls in—something we collectively wish would skip us altogether. Then come the endless tropical downpours, the suffocating humidity, and of course, the kind of heat that makes you question reality. The forecast may politely insist it’s 85 degrees, but step outside and suddenly it feels like you’re walking straight into a furnace at 112 degrees.
Still, this is home—and I’ve come to love it for all its quirks. There’s a unique charm about summer here if you know where to look. The city quiets down once the tourists and snowbirds retreat to their northern escapes. Roads become blissfully less crowded, beaches feel untouched, and the ocean stretches out calm and glassy. It’s like South Florida exhales for a moment, inviting its locals to enjoy a softer, more peaceful rhythm.
Of course, this summer hasn’t been like the ones before. Just when we began adjusting to the “new normal,” we found ourselves heading back into quarantine yet again. At this point, who even knows what day we’re on anymore? Summer has looked and felt very different, with gatherings limited, plans postponed, and routines reshaped. The real question became: how do you hold on to that carefree, sun-drenched feeling of summer while still keeping yourself—and others—safe?
For me, the answer has been finding joy in small, intentional ways. I’ve leaned into experiences that bring that spark of freedom back, even if they’re quieter than summers past. Sometimes it’s as simple as taking a long drive along the coast, windows down, music up, letting the salty air rush in. Other times, it’s a late-afternoon walk along the shoreline when the crowds have gone, the sky blushing with sunset, and the waves lapping gently at my feet.
I’ve also found comfort in turning everyday moments into little celebrations. A backyard picnic, complete with fresh fruit and sparkling water, feels like a tiny escape. Cooking something new—usually inspired by the bright flavors of summer—makes dinner feel like more than just another night in. Even a good book by the pool can transport me far beyond the confines of home.
What I’ve learned is that “summer” doesn’t have to look like big vacations or crowded events to feel special. Sometimes, it’s about savoring the stillness and appreciating the freedom we do have, however small it may be. It’s about finding beauty in the slowed-down pace, and remembering that seasons are less about where you are and more about how you choose to experience them.
South Florida’s summer, with all its heat, storms, and unpredictability, has reminded me that joy doesn’t have to disappear just because circumstances shift. It’s still here—in quiet beaches, in laughter at home, in simple rituals that make each day feel lighter. And maybe, in its own way, that’s what makes this summer unforgettable.
