Beaches and mangroves unite
Lower Matecumbe
Islamorada, FL 33036
+1 305 852 2381
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Beaches and mangroves unite |
Mile Marker 73.5 Lower Matecumbe Islamorada, FL 33036 +1 305 852 2381 |
You'll see this delightful park as you travel the Overseas Highway. It's just a half-mile south of MM 74 and stretches alongside the ocean, making it a popular stop for a brief stop, sunning and swimming. You can also set up a picnic here and enjoy the quiet tropical environment. A winding boardwalk that passes through short, leggy mangrove trees also offers a scenic stroll. There is no admission fee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: uberzombie  |
The ultimate Miami experience |
401 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33132 +1 305 577 3344 http://www.baysidemarketplace.... baysidemarketplace@generalgrowth.com |
To get the quintessential Miami experience, visit this lovely open-air market, where you can browse the artist's carts, sip an iced drink and stroll along the pier. More than 100 shops and 30 restaurants make this a wonderful place to shop. This is more than just a mall- it is a sweet slice of south Florida life. Located next to the American Airlines Arena and the Port of Miami, this is a great place to spend a few hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Becky Leslie |
 Photo: Michael Logdon-Porte |
 Photo: Priscila Sanches |
 Photo: Beth |
 Photo: J. Duncan |
 Photo: Eva Jablonski |
 Photo: Yurek Kulski |
 Photo: Alexis Puentes |
Great beach, great sightseeing |
1200 South Crandon Boulevard Key Biscayne, FL 33149 +1 305 361 5811 http://www.floridastateparks.o... |
This state park boasts one of the top 10 beaches in the United States. In addition, visitors can fish, hike, take guided tours of the property, or enjoy a picnic on the grounds. One attraction that should not be missed is the Cape Florida Lighthouse, a landmark in its own right. Overnight accommodations are available; in fact, this is a recommended destination for Florida visitors looking for a quiet getaway. The park is accessible by automobile or by boat, and overnight boat moorage is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joshua West |
Picturesque swimming, hiking, camping |
9700 Southwest 328 Street Homestead, FL 33033-5634 +1 305 230 7275 / +1 305 230 1144 http://www.biscayne.national-p... bisc1@us-national-parks.net |
At this lush park, you can glide through tranquil waters in your own canoe, join a park ranger on an informative tour, or explore a delightful underwater world. Of course, as at any South Florida Park, you will also find plenty of sunbathing and swimming opportunities. Visitors who are not satisfied with a daytrip can camp for the night. However, the campsites are located on two small keys, accessible only by boat. Sometimes the park can provide a boat, but there are no guarantees. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Burnt Umber |
 Photo: Denise Brinkley |
 Photo: carolyncarolyn |
Freshwater fun |
2100 West French Avenue Orange City, FL 32763 +1 386 775 3663 http://www.dep.state.fl.us/spr... |
At this park, springs bubble up and feed into Central Florida's Withlacoochee River. Tubing's a particular lure at this park, so jump into a big rubber tube and float down the waterway. Fishing is also permitted here, and there are many trails for hiking. One of the main highlights here are the endangered manatees, lounging by the springs. General admission is $4. Camping on any of 51 primitive sites is extra, so call for rates. Scuba and snorkeling equipment rentals and canoe rentals are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alison Willey |
Tour Boggy Creek |
2001 E. Southport Road Kissimmee, FL 34746 +1 407 344 9550 http://www.bcairboats.com info@bcairboats.com |
Naturalists often refer to Boggy Creek wetlands as, 'The Central Florida Everglades'. Take one of these airboat or swamp buggy rides for an up-close look at exotic birds, turtles and omnipresent Florida gators in their natural habitat. Boats cruise at speeds of up to 45 mph, giving passengers some mild thrills. Tours run from a half hour to one hour night rides, and no reservations are necessary. Airboat Rates: USD19.95 for adults, USD15.95 for children aged 3-12. Swamp Buggy Rates: USD20.95 for adults, USD15.95 for children aged 3-12. Combo Rates: USD36.81 for adults, USD28.71 for children aged 3-12. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Weppler |
Tour the Everglades |
P.O. Box 440727 Miami, FL 33144 +1 305 226 6048 http://www.coopertownairboats.... info@coopertownairboats.com |
Visitors to this south Florida tour service can get up close and personal with swamp wildlife. After cruising through the jungle of the Florida Everglades on a 30-minute airboat sightseeing tour, visitors to this park can wander through the gator exhibit. Facilities also include a souvenir shop and a restaurant. Tours leave every 15-20 minutes throughout the day, so it is not necessary to arrive at a specific time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joe Fernandez |
The other side of Miami |
405 Biltmore Way Coral Gables, FL 33134 +1 305 446 6800 (Information) http://www.citybeautiful.net/ |
The Gables - as it is locally known, is a little town in its own right. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterannean, find yourself strolling amidst beautiful trees in fairy tale avenues. Check out the various attractions - Venetian Pool, Dragonfly expeditions and Miracle Mile for starters. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Maria Alejandra Herrera |
 Photo: Michael Lindabury |
 Photo: LINDAC928 |
 Photo: Jose Izquierdo |
 Photo: luis cielak |
 Photo: David A. Rendon |
 Photo: Hugo Galilea |
 Photo: Stephen L Jones |
 Photo: valiantiris |
 Photo: Sarah Murray |
 Photo: Sean |
 Photo: Melinda L. Robillard |
 Photo: FARAH RAVON |
 Photo: Marion Michelsen |
Key Biscayne at its best |
4000 Crandon Boulevard Key Biscayne, FL 33149 +1 305 361 7385 / +1 305 361 5421 http://www.gmcvb.com/crandon_p... |
Crandon Park Beach includes three miles of sandy beach, 493 acres of park, an 18-hole golf course, and soccer and softball fields. Its beach was named one of the top ten in the United States. The park also includes a promenade, concession stands, picnic areas and an amusement area. The amusement area is home to an antique carousel, a splash fountain, an outdoor roller rink and a beachfront playground. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hans.brueschweiler |
 Photo: Golden Hot Pants |
 Photo: alfranquiz |
 Photo: Propeller Branding |
24-hour fishing |
Northeast Second and Ocean Way Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 |
Located in beautiful Deerfield Beach, a charming coastal community, the Deerfield Beach Pier is the hot spot for avid fishermen, where they can fish 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Live bait is available on site from pier vendors. The pier offers beautiful views of the ocean and beach, and curious non-fishers can walk the pier for a small fee. Admission: $3 to fish; $1 to walk. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bob Zanger |
A great preserve |
South of Orlando, at the headwaters of the Everglades Kissimmee, FL +1 407 935 0002 http://nature.org/ |
Two powerful environmental concerns have come together here, with the Nature Conservancy and Walt Disney World joining forces to preserve and protect this 12,000-acre ecosystem. In this region are the headwaters of the Everglades, that "shallow river of grass" so eloquently described by author Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, whose efforts helped save this vast swampland from destruction. Water from this region in the center of Florida flows inexorably south, covering much of the land down the center of the state and into southern Florida before flowing into the sea. At this vast preserve, you can get a look at pristine plant communities, wildlife, and waterways. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mateus Waechter |
 Photo: Snogger1 |
Skimming the waves |
245 Front St (at the Hilton Marina) Key West, FL 33040 +1 305 294 8899 http://furycat.com/ info@furycat.com |
Catamarans are speedy sailboats that fly across the water on two pontoons with the deck, controls and sail in the middle. The Fury skims the seas on a variety of sun-and-fun expeditions that feature swimming, a look at colorful reef fish, sunset sailings and plenty of beverages ranging from soft drinks to champagne, wine and beer. If the sun gets to you, it is comforting to know there are some shady spots aboard. Prices range from $30-$40, depending on the cruise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sandpebble |
Cruise the Everglades |
24050 Southwest 8th Street Miami, FL 33187 +1 800 559 2205 / +1 305 559 2255 http://www.gatorpark.com/ |
Although there are plenty of gators to see here, this attraction also includes several other wild animals. During the 30-minute wildlife show, visitors can see panthers and other exotic inhabitants of the Everglades. The bravest souls can also have themselves photographed with an alligator. But the high point of a trip to Gator Park is likely to be the airboat tour; unlike other tour companies, this park guarantees at least one alligator sighting. Airboat tours last approximately 45 minutes. Admission: USD18 for adults and USD10 for children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Nagy |
 Photo: Jia-Jiun Daniel Liao |
 Photo: tuğba karatop |
 Photo: Alison Seigel |
Waterfront park for picnics |
MM 93.5 Tavernier Key Key Largo, FL 33037 +1 305 852 7161 |
Whether you're discovering Key Largo, which sprawls across more than 10 miles or just passing through on your way to one of the other Keys, a stop at Harry Harris Park makes for a pleasant visit. At this waterfront park, you can walk the beach, give the children a break in the playground, join a game at the sports field or enjoy lunch on a picnic table for a lazy afternoon of sun, sand, wine and cheese. It's free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard Sandenskog |
Tropical gardens, rare wildlife |
3109 East Sunrise Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 +1 954 564 4521 |
This 180-acre park was given by Hugh Taylor Birch to the state of Florida. Birch came to Florida in the last part of the 19th century and promptly fell in love with the area; he eventually purchased more than three miles of oceanfront property in the little town of Fort Lauderdale. More than 100 years later, Fort Lauderdale is a busy metropolis, and Birch's land thrives as a wildlife preserve and botanical wonderland. A number of animal and plant species have found a safe home here alongside the ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors are free to hike or bike the designated trails, canoe around the lagoon, take a dip in the ocean and visit Birch's home, which is open to the public. Excellent camping facilities are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Spitzer |
Sightseeing by boat |
401 Biscayne Boulevard Bayside Marketplace Miami, FL 33132 +1 305 379 5119 http://www.islandqueencruises.... |
There is a lot to see in Miami, and trying to drive through it can be time-consuming and frustrating. Why not eliminate some unnecessary grief and take a guided tour by boat? Located in Bayside Marketplace, Island Queen cruises depart nine times daily; six during the day, and three in the evening. The tour lasts one and a half hours. See the houses of the rich and famous, the Millionaire Mile, massive cruise ships and get a new perspective on this seaside city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: LinksmanJD |
Birdwatcher's paradise |
One Wildlife Drive Sanibel, FL 33957 +1 239 472 1100 http://www.dingdarlingsociety.... |
The J.N. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge is 5,000 acres of tidal wetlands and mangroves, home to more than 200 species of birds, 50 species of reptiles and 32 of mammals. The best (and busiest) times to bird watch are November through April. Explore the park on a two-mile foot trail, several canoe trails, bike paths or the five-mile Wildlife Drive with water on both sides. Camping is not allowed, there are no water or restrooms facilities and the refuge is closed every Friday. Bring cash, water, insect repellant and binoculars. Admission is USD12 per person. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chip & Chan Clifollo |
 Photo: Chris Evans |
 Photo: Luca Fabbri |
Exploring wonders under the sea |
Mile Marker 102.5 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037 http://www.pennekamppark.com pennekamppark@yahoo.com |
A protected underwater paradise, the park is home to 55 varieties of coral and 600 species of fish. Snorkeling, diving, glass-bottom boat tours and sailing expeditions are popular, offering recreational and educational adventures. The park also has a beach, picnic areas, a 30,000-gallon aquarium and museum, and two nature trails. Overnight camping is by advance reservations. Snorkeling is USD25 for adults, USD20 under 18, and equipment rental USD3-6. Kayak, pedal boat and canoe rental is USD10-15 per hour. A glass-bottom boat trip is USD18 for adults, USD10 for ages 12 and under. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jean-Marc Demers |
 Photo: Joseph Marsden |
A south Florida institution |
Bahia Mar Yachting Center Route A1A Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 +1 954 462 5596 |
For more than 50 years, visitors have traveled on this stately riverboat. Tours sail past estates while an entertaining monologue by the captain points out the homes of the famous and the infamous. On three-hour day tours or four-hour dinner voyages you can sail to an island where you will dine amid tropical foliage. Evening cruises feature a dinner of barbecued ribs and shrimp, with a variety revue and sing-a-long cruising back. Tickets are adults/children: USD15/10 (under 12). Dinner cruises are USD24 per person, and day sailings are adults/children: USD11/8 (under 11). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave |
 Photo: Jason Leidy |
 Photo: Jeff Adair |
 Photo: bartlett.sharon |
Beach and lake recreation |
500 Wonderwood Dr Jacksonville, FL 32233 +1 904 249 4700 |
Soak in the fresh air at this oceanfront park, which features a 1.5-mile beach, nature trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, stocked fishing lakes and serene beaches. Lifeguards keep a watchful eye on swimmers and refreshments can be purchased at concession stands. The lakeside swimming area has fountains and squirt guns. Boating, canoeing, hiking and biking are available, while lakeside tables and grills provide the perfect spots to relax. Admissions: Ages six and up $1; Under six are free. Campgrounds are $13.50/night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Candis Davis |
Nature study |
7305 US Highway 27 Clermont, FL 34714 +1 352 394 3969 http://www.floridastateparks.o... |
One of 13 lakes connected by the Palatlakaha River, Lake Louisa sits in a 4,000-plus-acre park that also contains the Green Swamp. The various environments offer a variety of nature activities. Swim, hike, bird-watch, picnic, fish, canoe or take part in the nature-study events offered. Wildlife is abundant, so keep your eyes open during your travels. If you own a horse, you're welcome to bring it along; the park boasts a number of equestrian trails. Admission: $4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jamelle Shannon |
Miles of sand |
12157 Heckscher Drive Jacksonville, FL 32226 +1 904 251 2320 |
Nature lovers will undoubtedly fall in love with the peaceful seascapes at this state park; pristine beaches and unspoiled marshlands allow visitors the opportunity to enjoy the abundant wildlife up close. Sportsmen can fish either in the ocean surf or in tidal inlets, and beachgoers can spend the day surfing, sunbathing and swimming. The park also features a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas and campgrounds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Leah Baltazar |
 Photo: Robert Hulak |
Escapist's park |
P.O. Box 776 Long Key, FL 33036 +1 305 664 4815 |
Outdoor adventurers intent on camping, and boating will like this recreation area that snuggles up to the warm waters of the Atlantic. You'll find camping facilities, canoeing and nature trails, a small beach and tables for picnics. Camping is $23.69 without an electrical hook-up, $25.84 with electricity. You can rent a canoe for $4 an hour or $10 a day. If you're camping here, admission to the park is waived; otherwise, the fee is $3.25 a car and $.50 for each passenger. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Randy Juenger |
 Photo: howeyzerman |
Canoe rentals and fishing |
16001 West State Road 84 Sunrise, FL 33326 +1 954 389 2000 |
Located approximately seven miles west of Fort Lauderdale, this park attracts avid boaters and fishers alike. The 26-acre lake features ramps for launching boats into the New River Canals. A popular feature is the park's outdoor target range, which includes rifle, pistol and skeet shooting. The park also rents canoes, paddleboats, and johnboats for use in the park. Fishing is permitted from the shores of both the lake and the canals. Fishing licenses are required for those 16 and older. Call for rental rates and additional information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Susan Cleveland |
Former coconut plantation |
9610 Old Cutler Road Coral Gables, FL 33156-4268 +1 305 665 5475 http://www.miamidade.gov/parks... |
This 100-acre beach park, formerly a coconut plantation, is located north of Fairchild Tropical Gardens. Here, you can picnic, sunbathe on the quiet beach, or explore trails that wind through thick mangrove hammocks. The park also features an artificial lagoon where you can enjoy a day of shell collecting. Boat lovers can launch boats from the park's marina into Biscayne Bay. The park's restaurant serves lunch and dinner. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: •Kika• |
 Photo: Guillermo Gomez |
 Photo: Ed Ochoa |
A floating tutorial |
300 Biscayne Bay Blvd (Suite 720) (Dupont Plaza Hotel Marina) Miami, FL 33131 +1 305 755 9055 |
Wind your way down the river drinking in the sights of modern Miami as you listen to stories about its past. Children and adults alike will enjoy this relaxing, entertaining and informative journey. Tours are two and a half hours long and make stops at several historical points of interest. Refreshments are provided. Ticket prices are USD39.95 Adults, USD19.95 Children. Tours depart from the Dupont Plaza Hotel Marina. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Betts |
A boulevard of note |
500 Las Olas Boulevard (from Himarshee Canal to Andrews Avenue) Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 |
On this chic boulevard in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, you will find boutiques, narrow alleyways, brick walkways, tiny white lights rimming windows and dozens of trendy restaurants. Among more than a hundred shopping and dining options, you will find homemade ice cream at a dessert cafe and a live jazz bar that is always packed. You'll also find hot Tommy Bahamas tropical clothing shop with an antique bicycle parked at the door, a shop specializing in stained glass lamps and another in needlework, stylish hairdressers, unique gift shops and a variety of art galleries. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tombarnes20008 |
 Photo: .lucy |
 Photo: android in florida |
Cruise capital of the world |
1015 N America Way Miami, FL 33132 +1 305 371 7678 http://www.metro-dade.com/port... portofmiami@miamidade.gov |
In 1997, 3.2 million vacationers from around the globe found themselves in the Port of Miami, setting a new record for port traffic. Home to the largest fleet in the world, some of the most fantastic, state-of-the-art ships are docked here year-round. Whether your cruise is a day trip or a trip around the world, Miami is an excellent stopping point. Sail to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico, South America, or just about anywhere from the world's most popular port. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roger Theriault |
 Photo: Lisa Sohl |
 Photo: Humberto Vidal |
 Photo: Karen Boussey |
 Photo: Javier Escobar |
 Photo: travelinfool55 |
 Photo: Susan Lupiani |
 Photo: Allegra J. Lingo |
 Photo: Mary |
 Photo: Anne Ruthmann |
 Photo: Camilo Bonilla |
 Photo: KM&G-Morris |
 Photo: Scott Klaasen |
Hail a floating cab |
651 Seabreeze Boulevard (A1A) Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 +1 954 467 6677 http://www.watertaxi.com/ mwilliams@watertaxi.com |
It is an adventure to travel by water taxi and arrive at waterside destinations, including dozens of restaurants and shops and a surprising number of offices, as well. These little green-and-yellow boats will also take groups on tours. Piloted by licensed captains, the taxis scoot around from downtown along the canals, Intracoastal Waterways and rivers. Fares are USD7.50 per person one-way, USD14 round-trip, USD16 for an All-Day Pass and USD110 for a Super Floater Super Saver Pass that includes 20 one-way or 10 round-trips. Schedules vary, call for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joseph George Hill |
 Photo: the wretched |
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