12 Keys animals not to miss and when to see them

Many of these free things to do in Florida are off-the-beaten path spots to enjoy nature, wildlife and history — from 300-year-old forts to superb boardwalks.

If riding a horse through sand and surf is your dream, here are a half dozen places in Florida that can make that dream come true. Riding opportunities are located on both coasts as well as in northern and southern Florida.

Hiring the right fishing charter could be the beginning of a long relationship, so you want to get it right. Let this be your guide.

Obtaining a Florida fishing license is as quick and easy as picking up the phone or clicking on a button in this story. But do you even need a license? We’ll walk you through what you need with straightforward FAQs.

When you visit Key West, you may hear some phrases you don’t understand or can’t pronounce. Bone Island? Bight? Bug? Chug? Pinks? Snuba? Tickle stick? This amusing Keys dictionary can help.

Few places offer both so much history and such beauty as Florida’s 30 lighthouses. Six of Florida’s lighthouses are built on reefs in the Keys and one of those — Alligator Reef — was awarded this week to a non-profit group to preserve and develop.

Our Florida Oktoberfests Calendar is the most comprehensive listing of Oktoberfest celebrations in Florida. This updated calendar includes the latest updates and cancellations for 2021 Oktoberfests in Florida.

The historic Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge couldn’t be in a prettier spot. It also tells the story of a wild Florida of shipwrecks and pioneers. While you’re exploring the gorgeous beaches here, it’s worth a quick stop.

Flamingo Gardens has the biggest tree and the largest collection of native wildlife in Florida. It combines history, beauty, flora and fauna for a fun outing.

Fresh Florida seafood is best enjoyed in an authentic Florida fish shack, ideally with an outdoor deck overlooking the water. Here are a few of our favorites.