Our Florida Keys Overseas Highway Mile-Marker Guide is your travel companion across these islands with notes on things to do, historic points of interest, tiki bars, restaurants and places to launch a kayak or take a hike.
Author: Bob Rountree and Bonnie Gross
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Birds and beauty
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is big, beautiful & full of birds. From majestic bald eagles to friendly scrub jays, it offers awe-inspiring experiences, especially in winter when migratory birds gather here.
Pelican Island, the first National Wildlife Refuge, has been cherished by bird-lovers for a century
The first National Wildlife Refuge, Pelican Island, is a good place near Vero Beach to see wildlife, learn a little history and immerse in the beauty of the Indian River Lagoon.
Everglades Seafood Festival on tap this weekend
The Everglades Seafood Festival in Everglades City brings fresh local seafood, country music, carnival rides and arts and crafts to this historic outpost on the edge of the Everglades.
Florida’s 12 best county parks are treasures
These terrific county parks are popular with locals, rich in things to do, awaiting discovery by the Florida traveler.
Scenic Legacy Trail between Venice and now Sarasota is one of Florida’s best bike trails
This paved bike trail system has it all — spectacular scenery, a smooth paved surface with few road crossings and great amenities and stops along the way. And it keeps getting better. The final northern segment to downtown Sarasota is now open.
Shutdown’s impact on national parks, forests, campgrounds in Florida
The federal government shutdown that went into effect Wednesday doesn’t mean national parks and forests are closing, although reduced staffing will impact the ability to provide services and access to some areas.
Best lil’ beach towns
The best Florida beach towns are cozy and quaint, reflecting an Old Florida ambience. Here are seven of our favorites, all small enclaves worth discovering.
Snorkeling, kayaking, camping at Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Snorkel, dive or ride a glass-bottom boat to view coral reefs at what many consider Florida’s #1 state park. There’s kayaking and camping, too!
License-free fishing over two weekends in June: One salt, one fresh
June is the time to pull out your fishing gear and fish in saltwater one weekend and freshwater the next — no license required.