St. Lucie Inlet Preserve fits my definition of a hidden paradise: A scenic kayak trail on a wild island that ends at a spectacular hidden beach you’ll have all to yourself. This little-known state park is accessible only by boat.
Southeast Florida
Southeast Florida Getaways
Things to do in Southeast Florida, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Stuart and getaways to outdoor recreation, hiking, biking, trails, canoeing, kayaking, places to camp, places to stay, unique restaurants, road trips, historic places and Funky Florida.
Loop Road: Storied road through Everglades is full of wildlife
Loop Road is famous for being a wild place. (That once applied to the people as well as the animals.) It’s a gravel road off the Tamiami Trail in the Everglades. If you’re not in a hurry, it’s a rewarding place to explore.
The beaches of Hutchinson Island (& engaging things to do nearby)
Hutchinson Island boasts some of the nicest beaches in Florida with easy public access on sandy paths through the dunes, the way Atlantic beaches used to be.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park: A Florida treasure
Jonathan Dickinson State park can keep a lover of the outdoors busy for days with hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, wildlife watching and soaking up the natural beauty. The park has been the site of ongoing protests of a state proposal to build a hotel and golf courses there.
Driftwood Inn Vero Beach is a great base for exploring charming beach town
This offbeat historic hotel is the classic place to stay in Vero, a laid-back beach town that charms visitors with its funky Florida history, gorgeous beaches and cute downtown.
Urban paddle: Al Capone’s island and backyards of the rich and famous
Explore elegant landscapes, megayachts and homes of the rich and famous in Boca Raton from the comfort of your kayak.
Kayak the waterways near Fort Lauderdale Air Show, May 10-11, 2025
A kayak paddle in the nearby waterways is a way to reduce traffic hassles and still experience some of the Fort Lauderdale Air Show. Here’s how to do it.
Fruit and Spice Park: 10 wonders of this unique garden south of Miami
In the rural Redland area in Homestead, you can tour Fruit and Spice Park, where you taste exotic tropical fruit. The big Redland International Orchid Festival is here May 17 to 19, 2024.
Paradise found at 9 South Florida state parks with camping
From coral reefs to Everglades habitats, state parks with camping in South Florida and the Florida Keys may be few but they are distinguished. (3rd in a series)
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jupiter: Florida wildlife in a free park-like setting
Animal lovers and particularly families will enjoy this free wildlife sanctuary. Located in a green and shaded setting, it showcases native critters from panthers and black bears to bald eagles and otters.