Flamingos in Florida may be making a comeback. A 2023 hurricane brought many here and some remain. Here’s where to see them.
Author: Bonnie Gross
Robbie’s Marina: Feed the tarpon; it’s the best cheap fun you can find in the Keys
Robbie’s Marina is a don’t-miss stop as you drive through the Florida Keys. Dozens of tarpon, some more than 6 feet long, gather at the dock and lunge for fish from visitors. The restaurant there, the Hungry Tarpon, is highly recommended , too.
Smallwood Store in Chokoloskee: Everglades icon still owned by original family
Smallwood Store is an exceptional slice of Florida history at an end-of-the-road site overlooking Chokoloskee Bay near Everglades City.
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park: Kayak to stilt houses, hike to small springs
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park in New Port Richey is not well known outside its area. But it’s a good place to kayak both to see springs in the park and to paddle into the Gulf to see historic stilt houses.
On the Ocklawaha River, you kayak a river environmentalists saved
Environmentalists have won a few battles in Florida and paddling the Ocklawaha is a good reminder. This is a wild, untouched river that was destined to be lost forever. Today, it is a beautiful spot to explore, less busy than many nearby rivers.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: Top beach, lighthouse & sangria on Key Biscayne
The Cape Florida lighthouse, the oldest structure in Miami-Dade County, is more natural than it has been for decades. Enjoy the terrific beach, tropical hammock, tour the historic lighthouse ande dine at restaurants with great views.
Shark Valley at Everglades National Park: Great bike trail; terrific wildlife
One of the best ways to see Florida’s Everglades is via the Tamiami Trail to the Shark Valley entrance, home to a terrific bike trail and abundant wildlife. Visitors have been reporting outstanding wildlife viewing during holiday visits.
Hugh Taylor Birch Park in Fort Lauderdale: My favorite Florida state park
This state park holds a special place in my heart. In urban South Florida, it preserves a sliver of the natural splendor once all around. There’s a lot to do here: beach, biking, shaded picnics, Intracoastal views. When visiting, a perfect day includes a stop to nearby Bonnet House.
Oleta River State Park feels like island getaway in Miami urban sprawl
This Miami state park is a remarkable island of green where you can kayak, mountain bike, picnic and enjoy a sandy beach. It’s the largest urban park in Florida.
A mango taste test inspired by Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Mango Festival
The Fairchild Tropical Garden Mango Festival is June 13-14, 2026. For fanatics, it’s a delight. We attended last year and brought home four unusual varieties for our own mango taste test.