Whether you are based out of Miami or want to get away from the crowds in Orlando, South Florida has a lot to offer. With two National Parks and fantastic snorkeling there is truly something for every outdoor adventurer. These are my top picks for outdoor adventures in and around Everglades National Park.
Become a beach bum
Miami is the perfect home base to South Florida and has an amazing stretch of beach. You can walk along the boardwalk and people watch or laze around on the white sand, swimming in crystal clear water.
If Miami beach is a bit too crazy for your taste, head down to the keys for quieter, more laid-back stretches of beach. Though I would argue that their beaches aren’t quite as nice.
Everglades National Park
The largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. It’s a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a special protected area under the Cartagena Treaty.
Both invasive plants and wildlife are a constant threat to this subtropical wonderland. The two biggest wildlife threats being the lionfish and the Burmese python. The python was introduced into the park due to both accidental and intentional release of captive pet animals. And they have done well in this environment. A little too well.
Their presence is devastating native wildlife populations with their voracious appetite. Various groups are working hard to try to bring this invasive species under control.
The Everglades is such a special place and there is so much to see and enjoy I hate seeing its spectacular wildlife devastated by these invasive species.
Robert is Here
Before really heading into the park and taking in all it’s amazing natural glory, make sure to stop at Robert is Here. This farm stand is just on the outskirts of the park and has the best passionfruit smoothie I have ever tasted.
Make sure to also pick up some boiled peanuts while you are there. Their salty goodness will turn your fingers into prunes and make your taste buds happy.
Bird watching in Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park in my opinion has some of the most unique bird watching opportunities in the US. Just a few of the birds I saw during my time there were the Great Egret, Anhinga and American purple gallinule.
It is considered the most significant breeding area for wading birds in North America with habitat for over 400 different species. But its not just a site for wading birds it’s also a stopover on the migration of the critically endangered Yellow-throated warbler.
With rising sea levels and the other significant impacts of climate change, many of these species are at risk of extinction, making the Everglades an important resource to protect.
Walk with Alligators
We all know that Everglades National Park is home to a surprising number of gators. But let’s clear one thing up first. What’s the difference between an alligator and a crocodile, in case you ever come face to face with one of these beasts.
There are a couple key features. Alligators have a wider U-shaped snout whereas crocodiles have a more pointed snout. When their great jaws are shut, crocodiles look like they are giving you a toothy grin. Finally, crocodiles generally live in saltwater habitats, while alligators prefer freshwater marshes and lakes.
Ok, now that we have that cleared up, there are places where you can walk or bike along a waterway, with alligators basking right alongside you. It’s a bit unnerving but kind of awesome to be able to see these animals up close and in their natural environment. Just don’t get too close. They are still a wild animal after all.
Gator show
Before heading out on an airboat tour, make sure to check out the gator show. This is where you will learn the fun facts about alligators I described above. They will also bring out gators for demonstration and little baby ones for photo opportunities.
Make sure you wash your hands after handling the baby gator though, they still carry things like salmonella. Don’t listen to the show hosts who say these are the cleanest animals you will ever encounter. It doesn’t matter how they are cared for; they still poop in the same water they swim in.
Airboat tour through Everglades National Park
Boat tours are probably the best way to really see the everglades. From here you get close ups of the mangroves, birds, alligators and plant life that makes the everglades magical.
There are lots of options for airboat tours with different companies, making it easy to find the tour that fits you best.
Snorkel in the Keys
Continuing on past the Everglades you will start to enter the Florida Keys. The first of the keys being Key Largo, a great spot to go snorkeling.
There is a great reef just a short boat ride away bursting with life. You will be surrounded by barracudas, tangs, and many other tropical fish all hanging out around the garden of corals.
Concluding Thoughts
This is not a complete list by any means, but some good options to get you warmed up for a longer tour of the area. You can also make it a combined trip of the Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park if visiting all of the US National Parks is on your bucket list.
