The term tubing has a pretty broad definition and can include several activities that can be participated in a variety of different types of waterways. Usually those who are said to be “going tubing” are doing so in a group of individual inner tubes (sometimes interlocked or tied together) or larger, more elaborate tubes that fit several bodies. Riders then find a river, lazy or otherwise, to float along with the current alone propelling them. Unlike many other water activities, anyone who can swim can have a great time tubing from the very first time. Tubing doesn’t require expensive equipment, making it even easier for more people to enjoy it. It also has wide appeal thanks to it not requiring a large lake or shoreline to enjoy. Rivers can be found almost everywhere and anywhere with a gentle current can be an excellent tubing destination. For these reasons and more, tubing is seeing a rise in popularity all across the country.
With specialized tubes to hold food or your favorite beverages, groups can essentially have an entire outing complete with a meal while they travel down the river. While many like to enjoy an adult beverage (or half a dozen) while they explore the waterway, it’s important to note that many tubing destinations do have rules governing such and you’ll want to be aware of them before you hit the water. You can also find waterproof bags or packing systems that allow you to stow keys, wallets, phones, and camera devices to capture the scenic views along the river.
Many of the best tubing destinations offer a casual ride in clear waters, along hours of gorgeous landscapes. While it would be nearly impossible to list every great tubing destination, the ones below offer a great experience and can be found domestically as well as in many other scenic locations around the world.
Ginnie Springs along the Santa Fe River (High Springs, FL)
This little gem is not too far from Florida’s major tourist destinations and has been attracting both Floridians and savvy visitors to the state looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of central Florida. Ginnie Springs boasts the clearest water you can find in the Southeast U.S. as it draws its source from an aquifer. At Ginnie Springs, you’ll find a spectacular underwater world complete with grottos, colorful fish, turtles, and other wildlife along the riverbanks as you float through seven separate 72-degree springs.
Shoot the Hooch on the Chattahoochee River (Atlanta, GA and Others)
Georgian’s have been “Shootin’ the Hooch” in the summer for decades and it has recently seen a revival of sorts among Peach State residents. Unlike many waterways, shootin’ the Hooch along with your favorite adult beverage is just about the only way to do it. While Atlanta is the biggest city in the south, it also represents the largest land-locked population in the southern states which makes the Chattahoochee a popular destination, as it is the only natural water that can found close by. With several launch spots all across the state, there is always sure to be large stretch of relaxing river to tube on.
Belize Cave Tubing Along Caves Branch River (Belize City, Belize)
Travelers that make their way to this little country in the Eastern Caribbean find a tubing experience unlike any other. Tubing enthusiasts can get a guided tour along a fantastic waterway that winds in and out of the country’s beautiful cave system. You can be sure you’ll never have a dull moment, whether you take the tour during calmer months, or when the current is far more exciting. This isn’t the kind of tubing experience that generally includes a cool adult beverage — you might want to take a dry bag with you for that stuff. In fact, if you do go when the current is rougher, you’ll want to make sure you check out some gear from Adventure Lion; you’ll find it a life saver when it comes to your valuables. And if you take a cruise that stops in Belize City, you will have several exciting options including snorkeling, zip lining, and ATV tours, but it’s the cave tubing that steals the show. “Butts up,” as they say!
Brian Levesque is a freelance writer and family man who contributes articles and insights into the blessings and challenges of family life — and how to vacation in style!
Photo by Tommy Gustaviano Yeza, sourced from Wikimedia Commons.
