GOOD NEWS for a change: Scientists recently announced the population of whales has had a slight uptick. Endangered right whales are viewed close to shore in North Florida every winter.
Author: Bonnie Gross
Calusa Blueway: Kayak trail with maps and markers is worth exploring
The Calusa Blueway is a 190-mile long paddling trail through the Gulf Coast waters around Fort Myers. It’s not designed to be through-paddled, but it IS designed to be Florida’s best kayak trail.
Where to see Manatees in Florida: 18 spots to visit
With Florida’s first chill, the manatees are returning to springs and rivers. Here are a few locations where you have a good chance of admiring these charming creatures — and even kayaking with them.
January 2026 manatee festivals in Crystal River & Orange City
Manatee festivals celebrate Florida’s beloved manatee in January in Crystal River and Orange City. The family events include good spots to view manatees.
St. Lucie River: Beautiful kayak trail deserves discovery
The St. Lucie River is not a well-known kayaking destination — and it should be. It’s wild and gorgeous — a jungly forest of old live oaks thick with airplants and Spanish moss. After paddling about two hours, you reach a remote area where you can picnic and take a hike.
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park: A serene spot to learn about Florida’s past
A peaceful park shaded by magnificent live oaks is a good place to soak up some Florida history. If you take the time to go through the visitor center and walk the battlefield, you’ll find it also tells a thought-provoking story.
Top 75 Florida events, fairs & festivals in 2026
Our festival calendar is constantly updated and we’ve been following the festival scene for 15 years. Here are 75 hand-picked festivals around the state that range from off-beat local bashes to huge nationally known cultural events.
Knaus Berry Farm: Beloved sweet spot in Homestead opens in new location
After a long wait, Miami’s favorite place for cinnamon rolls has reopened under new ownership at a new location. This institution south of Miami has generations of devoted fans.
Glamping in Florida: Luxury meets nature in these 15 parks
Glamping in Florida is now offered in 14 state and one national park, where some fancy tents come with chandeliers. The idea: Be in the wild, but be comfy.
Garden in West Palm Beach is a hidden treasure
The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens are a gorgeous hidden gem often confused with the Norton Museum. You don’t have to love sculpture or rare palms to delight in this eye candy.