See Florida in a new light — moonlight. Many kayak outfitters around the state organize full-moon paddle outings. The last full moon of 2024 is this weekend.
Author: Bonnie Gross
Where to see white pelicans, spectacular birds wintering in Florida
White pelicans migrate to Florida in winter by the thousands. They are the sort of big, dramatic birds that even folks who don’t consider themselves birders will enjoy spotting.
Ten great places for winter wildlife viewing; some off the beaten track
No matter how many times I see them, the sight of a white pelican, bald eagle or an otter will make my day. These spots are favorites for providing reliable views of animals in beautiful settings.
Chinsegut Hill is one of Florida’s most fascinating historical sites
Chinsegut Hill Historic Site in Brooksville is a rare Antebellum plantation in Florida. Beautifully preserved atop a high hill, it introduces you to remarkable people, black and white, who lived here over 180 years. What a great place to discover!
Robert Is Here: 6 reasons to stop here on way to Everglades
Robert Is Here, just outside Everglades National Park, is a must-stop for my family on the basis of its fresh-fruit milkshakes alone. But we also love the menangerie out back, the exotic tropical fruits there for the tasting and the overall ambiance.
11 outstanding outdoor things to do in Amelia Island
With eight state parks, a national park, scads of history and top beaches, Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach make a great base to explore northeast Florida.
Flamingo is Everglades National Park’s last outpost, and worth the drive
Flamingo is 38 miles from the entrance to Everglades National Park, but we love it for the wildlife — manatees, crocodiles and an osprey nest right in the marina.
Kayaking St. Lucie River waterways: Many kayak trails to explore
We’ve spent several great days kayaking the waterways along the St. Lucie River in the Treasure Coast. Here are three kayak trails we like: St. Lucie south branch , St. Lucie Inlet Preserve and Ten Mile Creek.
Crystal River manatees: How to see, kayak or swim with manatees
The magic of manatees draws thousands to the Crystal River on the Gulf Coast each winter. Here’s a practical guide to manatee experiences in Three Sisters Springs and Kings Bay — kayaking with manatees, swimming with manatees or admiring them from a boardwalk.
Van Fleet bike trail: Central Florida’s 29 miles of beauty & solitude
The Van Fleet Trail into the Green Swamp is one of the most rural, isolated rides you’ll find in Florida. It’s flat. It’s straight. But if you want to truly get away from it all and encounter a little wildlife along the way, here’s the place.