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.
Tag: birds
Camping in the grasslands of Kissimmee Prairie
Amateur astronomers and photographers love this peaceful savanna in the heart of Florida, an ideal destination for stargazing, bird watching, and not a bad getaway from the world at large.
12 Keys animals not to miss and when to see them
The abundance of Florida Keys wildlife helps makes the Keys unique. Here are 12 animals, month-by-month, you can look for; many are unfamiliar to visitors.
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.
Prairie Creek: Beautiful little-known kayak trail in Punta Gorda
I love to discover and share new places to kayak, and Prairie Creek near Punta Gorda is a scenic, pristine stream full of birds and wildlife. It’s just the sort of place that makes me love to paddle.
Siesta Key kayaking trail: Paddle a pretty Sarasota waterway
Siesta Key is famous for its top-ranked beaches, but this kayak trail is another reason to visit. It takes you through a bird-filled preserve to a beach accessible only by boat. The origin of this beach involves the fascinating tale of Midnight Pass, which some locals want to restore.
How to spot eight Florida animals in the wild in winter
There are a lot of things I love about winter in Florida, but high on the list is spotting the wonderful variety of wildlife here. You might not get lucky and view all these animals, but you’ll visit wild and beautiful sites on your quest.
6 things to do in Ocala National Forest
Encompassing more than 600 square miles in North Central Florida, Ocala National Forest is your playground for adventure.
Ancient oaks caress the soul at Highlands Hammock State Park
Old-growth live oaks draped in air plants and Spanish moss dominate 9,000-acre Highlands Hammock State Park, one of Florida’s original state parks.
Oscar Scherer State Park: Suburban oasis with camping, paddling, top-rated bike trail
Secluded campground tucked into the shady woods of Oscar Scherer State Park with access to a fabulous rail trail linking Sarasota to Venice.
Legendary Fisheating Creek: Kayak trail lives up to hype, but timing is everything
This gorgeous, wild, winding river is well-known in Florida, but can only be paddled when water levels are high enough — and thanks to recent rains, that is now and probably for the next month or two. This river belongs on the bucket list of those who love the Florida outdoors.
Spruce Creek paddle: A diamond in the rough
Development is creeping up on Spruce Creek and Strickland Bay, but there’s still enough scenic shoreline left to enjoy an awesome day of kayaking.