Adventure brief
Weekly Stay and Play
Boost your water sports skills with daily guided sessions at Winter Haven’s Briscoe's Ride Center. This unique weeklong program offers personalized instruction on pristine freshwater lakes to elevate your game.
Winter Haven, Florida, is best known for its chain of lakes, making it a prime destination for water sports enthusiasts craving a blend of sun, splash, and skill-building. At the heart of this aquatic playground, Briscoe's Ride Center Inc. offers the Weekly Stay and Play—a water-focused training camp designed to sharpen your abilities over five days of active instruction. Set along calm yet invigorating waters at 1395 S Lake Roy Dr, this program caters to every level, whether you're peeling into wakeboarding, mastering waterskiing, or refining your balance across a paddleboard.
The area’s unique network of freshwater lakes, sculpted from ancient limestone bedrock, creates ideal conditions for repetitive practice without the distraction or unpredictability of open ocean swell. Each day is tightly structured with up to four guided sets—two before and two after lunch—each lasting 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your chosen discipline. Instruction balances hands-on time with carefully observed drills, ensuring personalized feedback tailored to your pace.
What sets Briscoe’s apart in Florida’s crowded water sports market is the boutique, supportive atmosphere Dave Briscoe and his team cultivate. You’re not lost among masses; instead, you join a small group where progress is closely monitored in a safe, encouraging environment. It’s as much about community and observation as it is about individual skill growth.
Beyond the water, Winter Haven itself offers a laid-back charm with its subtropical flora, visible birdlife such as Anhinga and Osprey, and a history entwined with early 20th-century phosphate mining and citrus farming. This program doubles as a chance to engage with both the natural and cultural fabric of Central Florida. Adventurers seeking a focused, weeklong deep dive into water sports will find Briscoe's Ride Center an unparalleled stepping stone—melding expert coaching, prime lakeside terrain, and a welcoming vibe that reframes training as adventure.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Hydrate Constantlyessential
Spending multiple sessions on the water demands regular hydration to maintain performance and focus.
- 02Bring Sun Protectionessential
The Florida sun is strong year-round; apply waterproof sunscreen before each session and consider UV-blocking gear.
- 03Arrive with Basic Fitnessinfo
While instruction covers technique, a moderate level of fitness improves endurance through multiple daily sessions.
- 04Plan for Early Morningsinfo
Morning air and water conditions tend to be calmer—ideal for initial sets and maximizing learning efficiency.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects skin during extended exposure to intense Florida sun.
summerEssentialNeoprene Wetsuit
Keeps you warm in cooler water temperatures, enhancing comfort and performance.
winterPerformance Sunglasses
Reduces glare on the water surface to improve visibility and protect your eyes.
EssentialHydration Pack or Water Bottle
Maintains hydration levels essential for back-to-back sessions and Florida’s heat.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Crooked Lake Park for off-water relaxation and birdwatching, Chain of Lakes Trail for scenic cycling around Winter Haven
Local fauna
Purple Gallinule, a brightly colored marsh bird, Florida Softshell Turtle often seen basking near shores
Historic heritage
Winter Haven’s lakes were formed by sinkholes exposing limestone, shaping a distinctive freshwater network long used for recreation.
Mindful exploration
Local efforts focus on preserving water quality in the lakes through runoff management and responsible boating practices.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From docks along Lake Roy, Nearby park vantage points overlooking the Chain of Lakes, Water level shots during sessions
- Subjects
- Dynamic action shots of riders, Water reflections and sky gradients, Local wildlife flitting around the shorelines
- Best times
- Early morning sunrise, Golden hour before sunset, Clear midday for water reflections
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior experience to join the Weekly Stay and Play program?
No, the program is designed for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders, with instruction tailored to your learning pace.
What water sports disciplines are taught during the sessions?
Instruction covers wakeboarding, waterskiing, paddleboarding, and other water-based skills based on your interests.
How long is each instructional set?
Each set averages between 20 and 30 minutes, allowing focused skill development without overexertion.
What type of water conditions can I expect in Winter Haven?
You’ll be on tranquil freshwater lakes with minimal current and generally smooth surfaces ideal for skill building.
Is equipment rental available on-site?
While specific details are not listed, Briscoe's Ride Center typically facilitates access to necessary gear – contact them directly to confirm.
Are there group sizes or limits for the Weekly Stay and Play?
The program emphasizes a small-group atmosphere for personalized instruction and safety.