This state park is so worth a drive to explore. It would take days to experience it all – a beautiful beach, a well-preserved Civil War fort, hiking, biking, wildlife, great camping.
Recent Articles
Hutchinson Island’s House of Refuge: Beautiful beach site is window to past
The historic Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge couldn’t be in a prettier spot. It tells the story of a wild Florida of tall ships and pioneers. It’s one-of-a-kind, the last surviving refuge for shipwrecked sailors. There’s even a shipwreck to snorkel here.
Florida’s oldest state parks: Hidden gems may surprise you
The oldest Florida State Parks preserve unique places: stunning caverns, disappearing rivers, towering bluffs, lush ravines, a river with rapids. All are worth rediscovering.
Hutchinson Island’s Elliott Museum: For old car lovers — and everyone else
The Elliott Museum has an extensive collection of antique cars, but the museum has something for everything, from wedding dresses to baseball cards.
Florida Folk Festival, May 22-24, 2026, celebrates Florida people and culture, showcasing Americana music
The Florida Folk Festival began in 1953 at Stephen Foster State Park on the Suwannee River and is a Memorial Day weekend tradition. It’s a celebration of what make Florida unique.
Anclote Key: Camping on a remote tropical isle
If pitching a tent on a dreamy tropical island is your thing, then add Anclote Key to your bucket list.
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve: Kayak to wild island and beach
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 or secret lagoon. This little-known state park in Stuart is accessible only by boat.
Key West Aquarium is small but historic, interesting & fun
Right in the center of the historic district action, the Key West Aquarium is tiny but its historic building and informative tours make it a fun and appealing stop.
I visited Key West many times before I got around to the aquarium, but I recommend it if you set your expectations correctly.
Paddle Florida: 2026-27 kayak trips explore Florida’s top waterways
Paddle Florida is a non-profit that organizes paddling trips each fall to spring on Florida’s greatest waterways. Carefully researched, these trips are a great source of paddling destinations. Get inspired to plan a trip!
Experience Winter Park’s special charm with these 8 tips
From art museums to gardens to scenic boat tours, you’ll find many things to delight and amuse you in Winter Park. We took the train to this walkable gem of a town in the Orlando area.
Camping
Fort Clinch: Worth a drive to explore Amelia Island park with all sorts of fun
This state park is so worth a drive to explore. It would take days to experience it all – a beautiful beach, a well-preserved Civil War fort, hiking, biking, wildlife, great camping.
Best Beaches
Fort Clinch: Worth a drive to explore Amelia Island park with all sorts of fun
This state park is so worth a drive to explore. It would take days to experience it all – a beautiful beach, a well-preserved Civil War fort, hiking, biking, wildlife, great camping.
Biking and Hiking Trails
Lovely Turkey Creek in Palm Bay combines kayaking & hiking
A scenic kayak outing on Turkey Creek takes you to Palm Bay’s Turkey Creek Sanctuary, where you can explore 3.5 miles of trails. Along the way, see dolphins, manatees and other wildlife.
Go Snorkeling!
Peanut Island is an exceptional park for snorkeling, camping, kayaking
Peanut Island, reached only by boat in Riviera Beach, has clear turquoise water full of visible sea life. It’s great for a picnic at the beach — even camping. It’s an exceptional county park.
Road Trips
Epic drive through Florida’s Keys: Our Overseas Highway guide, milepost by milepost
Our Florida Keys Overseas Highway Mile-Marker Guide is your travel companion across these islands with notes on things to do, historic points of interest, tiki bars, restaurants and places to launch a kayak or take a hike.
Florida Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens: Beautiful oasis atop Florida ‘mountain’
Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales will fill a day with exploration and beauty — manicured landscapes, history and trails atop a lofty hill in Central Florida. Here are our seven favorite spots.
Florida Keys
Key West Aquarium is small but historic, interesting & fun
Right in the center of the historic district action, the Key West Aquarium is tiny but its historic building and informative tours make it a fun and appealing stop.
I visited Key West many times before I got around to the aquarium, but I recommend it if you set your expectations correctly.
