Florida is a sunshine state, attracting tourists who are searching for a vacation haven. Explore Florida and you will never run out of places to visit. In fact, spending a week will not be enough to get up close and personal with this tourist destination. Florida, as seen in movies is blessed with white sandy beaches. This is why when talking about this awe-inspiring place, the first thing that comes to mind is a beach vacation. If you invite family and friends to Florida, they will not refuse such an offer.
Exploring Florida’s Hidden Gem
An enticing destination, Florida has been home to picturesque attractions that enchant visitors to keep on coming back for more. Lovers Key State Park is one of the places worthy of exploration. Lovers Key, once upon a time, was only accessible by boat. As only lovers could travel to the island because it was remote, the state park was less popular than the other attractions surrounding Florida.
The more Lovers Key was exposed to tourists, the faster it gained popularity. It has become the perfect place for bottlenose dolphins, bald eagles, marsh rabbits, roseate spoonbills, and other interesting wildlife species. The two-mile long beach is a must-see and you can get there by tram or boardwalk. Some of the activities you can enjoy on the beach are picnicking, swimming, sunbathing and of course, shelling. If you are more into outdoor adventures, activities like hiking and bicycling should be part of your to-do list.
You can also explore the underwater treasures further through boat and fishing tours. Kayak and canoe rentals are also available. Nothing beats communing with nature when you had enough of the bustling city life. If you want to appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer, birding in Lovers Key State Park is an exciting getaway. Watching these lovely flying creatures in the sky is not the only activity that will let you appreciate nature. Deep within the crystal South West Florida waters hide West Indian Manatees and Bottlenose Dolphin. Being rich in wildlife is proof that the state park has been well-maintained over the years.
What makes Lovers Key State Park interesting is that it is composed of 4 barrier islands-Long Key, Black Island, Inner Island, and Lovers Key. While developments are too many to mention, these islands have still been fairly preserved so locals and tourists alike can enjoy them.
How would you like to spend your quality time with your family at the Lovers Key State Park? Its day use area is ideal for picnicking. It consists of two playgrounds, grills, restrooms, and other facilities ideal for parties, weddings, reunions and other special events. There are also areas for children to participate in recreational activities. If you want a laid back activity, there is a field for flying kites. The park is a great venue for sunset watching.
If you are not afraid to break a sweat, bicycling or exploring trails through hiking are the appealing activities you should try. For bicycling, you can bring in your own bike or rent one. There are many trails to explore including the Black Island Trail. Hiking also lets you discover the additional trails via a maritime hammock. Whether you are the outdoorsy type or you just want to get out of your comfort zone, these activities will never disappoint.
Shelling might sound like a new activity to you, especially if you are used to the typical beach activities like swimming. Shelling is one of the interesting activities that will let you realize that Lovers Key State Park is overflowing with treasures. You have to keep in mind though, that the state park restricts you from taking live creatures and their shells.
While in Lovers Key State Park, take the opportunity to explore nearby parks like the Mound Key Archaeological State Park, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Estero Bay Preserve State Park and more.
If you want a trip like no other, taking your loved ones to the Lovers Key State Park.
