West of Fort Myers, Matlacha is a colorful collection of little wooden houses surrounded by good saltwater-kayak trails. It’s been more than three years, but the community is still working to recover from Hurricane Ian.
Author: Bonnie Gross
Deering Estate is a hidden treasure; here are 6 things we love
Deering Estate is a serene spot in South Dade with sweeping views of Biscayne Bay, a fascinating tour of a castle-like home and a beautiful shoreline for kayaking in Biscayne Bay.
Kayaking Arbuckle Creek: Unexpected beauty at a bombing range
Arbuckle Creek is a gorgeous river through an ancient cypress forest. It feels remote and wild but is convenient to Orlando and South Florida. It’s a gem, full of wildlife and magnificent scenery.
Florida’s Loop Roads: A tale of two scenic roads, six hours apart
Florida has two beloved Loop Roads and they’re six hours apart. Each offers exquisite scenery with lots to see and do along the way. Discover them both!
Six romantic things to do for lovers of Old Florida & nature
If you love the outdoors and unspoiled Florida, these ideas for romantic things to do are for you. They’re inspired by Valentine’s Day, but can be enjoyed any day you and your sweetheart want a special experience.
Bulow Creek State Park: Quick stop off I-95 or all-day adventure
Bulow Creek State Park is a lovely discovery. Just 10 minutes off I-95, it’s great for a quick picnic and to gaze at the grand old Fairchild Oak. Or you can spend the day and take a hike or scenic drive.
Sebastian: An old Florida river town and great base for kayaking and exploring
In Sebastian, you find a walkable and scenic Indian River Lagoon riverfront plus great places to explore, especially by kayak.
Historic Jungle Trail is an unpaved road to explore original Florida
The picturesque 8-mile sand road in Vero Beach takes you past historic landmarks, including the first US wildlife refuge and a pioneer homestead overlooking the Indian River Lagoon. You can walk, bicycle on fat-tire bikes or drive it slowly. This is an original section of A1A.
Koreshan State Park is Florida’s strangest historic site
Florida’s wackiness goes back to its first settlers, and Koreshan State Historic Site celebrates one of our earliest eccentrics. Thanks to this cult, though, a wooded site on the Estero River was preserved. A special moonlight tour is Feb. 7.
Kayak to your own tiny paradise: Exploring spoil islands in the Indian River Lagoon
You can kayak to your own little island, and it’s not hard. The Indian River Lagoon has dozens of spoil islands where you can picnic, explore or even camp. You don’t need reservations and some islands are only minutes off shore.