So Katie and I have lived in Florida just about our whole lives but we haven't really explored the state like most Floridians should.
This summer we took it upon ourselves to branch out (pun intended) and see the natural beauty of our homeland.
It was one of the hottest summers we have ever been through but way worth it as we got to explore several majestic areas including:
- Lover's Key: (Near Ft Myers) Absolutely beautiful blue/green water with large dead, white-washed trees on the beach (http://www.floridastateparks.org/loverskey/)
- Caladesi Island: (Need to take a ferry) Quiet beach with great views (http://www.floridastateparks.org/CaladesiIsland/)
- Honeymoon Island: Lots to do and lots to see including a small history museum (http://www.floridastateparks.org/honeymoonisland/)
- Fort De Soto: Huge county park with a very beautiful beach and pier (http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/05_Ft_DeSoto.htm)
- Egmont Key: (Need to take a ferry) Ruins from the Spanish American war litter the landscape of this great island (http://www.floridastateparks.org/egmontkey/)
- Wekiwa Springs: Cold water year round with a lot of activities. One of our favorite places to kayak (http://www.floridastateparks.org/WekiwaSprings/)
- Birch: Small, peaceful state park with a lot of history (http://www.floridastateparks.org/hughtaylorbirch/)
- Bonnet House: Sprawling mansion built before the 1900's and donated by Hugh Taylor Birch, built on historic Florida grounds (http://www.bonnethouse.org/)
- St Pete Beach: Amazing white sandy beaches (http://stpetebeachflorida.org/index.html)
- Ft Laud Beach: Beautiful blue/green Atlantic waters with dark tan sand (http://www.fortlauderdale.gov/beach/index.htm)
- New Smyrna Beach: Drive-on beach (http://www.cityofnsb.com/)
From kayaking to snorkeling to swimming and shelling, we had an awesome time exploring the beaches and waterways of Florida this summer.
We highly recommend visiting these paradises in your backyard. Most of these state parks only require a small entrance fee and some of the islands require a ferry boat for a few bucks more.
Another perk is most of these places don't have heavy traffic so you can sit back and enjoy the view without a heavy dose of people.
Get out of the house and drink in the sea and land!