Florida Keys state parks are some of the most intriguing & beautiful places in the Keys. Some are little-known & off the beaten path. Get our insider tips.
Author: Bonnie Gross
Azaleas bloom at lovely Ravine Gardens State Park in Palatka
It’s spring in Florida: Azaleas are blazing in white, lavender, pink and red at this Florida state park with a rich history. About half the park’s flowers are in bloom, so this is the ideal time to visit because as more open, others lose their blossoms.
Delray Beach: Lots of things to do for a great weekend getaway
Delray Beach makes a great weekend getaway: It’s a charming, walkable urban area with outstanding gardens, historic buildings, a great downtown main street and an open, natural beach.
Fabulous Florida wilderness camping: Paddling Flamingo to Cape Sable
Cape Sable is 11 miles from Flamingo, the end of the road in Everglades National Park. It’s a wild and wonderful destination for a canoe/kayak camping adventure.
East Central Regional Rail Trail: 50 mile bike trail; something for every rider
The East Central Regional Rail Trail deserves a catchier name because it’s a great bike trail – long, smooth, scenic and well-supported with signage and amenities. It travels through one of the most rural areas of Florida with miles of paved path without an intersection.
Peanut Island: Exceptional park for snorkeling, camping, kayaking
Peanut Island, reached only by boat in Riviera Beach, has clear turquoise water full of visible sea life. It’s great for a picnic at the beach — even camping. It’s an exceptional county park.
Five romantic things to do in Florida while sharing your love of nature
Make Valentines Day plans now. From an elegant B&B to horseback riding on a perfect beach, here are five natural, wild and thoroughly romantic things to do in Florida.
Florida A1A: Best section for superb views & intriguing history
Florida A1A stretches the whole length of the state’s Atlantic coast. But the can’t-miss part is this 30 miles in Northeast Florida. Here are the best stops along that route, some you might miss without our tips.
Shark Valley at Everglades National Park: Great bike trail; terrific wildlife
NEWS ALERT: Shark Valley has reopened after flooding kept it closed since November. This entrance to Everglades National Park has one trail, but it’s so special that Shark Valley is hard to top. It’s an especially great place to bicycle.
Key West Botanical Garden: Plant lovers will be charmed
There’s so much to do in Key West, it’s easy to bypass the Key West Botanic Garden. But if you love unusual plants, you’ll be be charmed by this serene place.