The snorkeling trail at the park on the Blue Heron Bridge in Palm Beach County offers a volume and variety of sea life rarely seen close to shore.
Author: Bonnie Gross
Key West Seaport: One of the best scenic walks in Key West and full of stories
Many people miss it, sticking to Duval Street, but one of the most scenic strolls in Key West — and a top freebie — is the harbor walk along Key West Bight, also known as the Historic Key West Seaport.
Micanopy, setting for Old Florida movie, is base for nature- and history-filled getaway
Micanopy is right off I-75 near Gainesville, but it feels far away — like a small town in a Florida long gone. That’s why it was site for filming of ‘A Land Remembered,” a beloved Florida family saga.
Fort Clinch: Worth a drive to explore Amelia Island park with all sorts of fun
This state park is so worth a drive to explore. It would take days to experience it all – a beautiful beach, a well-preserved Civil War fort, hiking, biking, wildlife, great camping.
Hutchinson Island’s House of Refuge: Beautiful beach site is window to past
The historic Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge couldn’t be in a prettier spot. It tells the story of a wild Florida of tall ships and pioneers. It’s one-of-a-kind, the last surviving refuge for shipwrecked sailors. There’s even a shipwreck to snorkel here.
Florida’s oldest state parks: Hidden gems may surprise you
The oldest Florida State Parks preserve unique places: stunning caverns, disappearing rivers, towering bluffs, lush ravines, a river with rapids. All are worth rediscovering.
Hutchinson Island’s Elliott Museum: For old car lovers — and everyone else
The Elliott Museum has an extensive collection of antique cars, but the museum has something for everything, from wedding dresses to baseball cards.
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve: Kayak to wild island and beach
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve fits my definition of a hidden paradise: A scenic kayak trail on a wild island that ends at a spectacular hidden beach or secret lagoon. This little-known state park in Stuart is accessible only by boat.
Key West Aquarium is small but historic, interesting & fun
Right in the center of the historic district action, the Key West Aquarium is tiny but its historic building and informative tours make it a fun and appealing stop.
I visited Key West many times before I got around to the aquarium, but I recommend it if you set your expectations correctly.
Paddle Florida: 2026-27 kayak trips explore Florida’s top waterways
Paddle Florida is a non-profit that organizes paddling trips each fall to spring on Florida’s greatest waterways. Carefully researched, these trips are a great source of paddling destinations. Get inspired to plan a trip!