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Marine Biology Resource Guide: Places to Go, Things to See

If you are new to South Florida, or just looking for a few tips on what to do and how to get around, this is the page for you! There is so much nature to explore in South Florida, from kayaking in the Keys to birding in Broward County- find a fun new activity or place to visit here today!

Interactive Maps

Interactive Maps

Dive right into it- click on one of the links below to take you to an interactive map of Florida.

Toll Calculator

Toll Calculator

Getting around Florida can get a bit daunting- check out this toll calculator to help plan out any costs along the way.

Diving

If you want to go out diving, but don't have a boat, check out South Florida Diving Headquarters. They go out on daily dive trips, and can even find a buddy for you if you're going solo!


Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a fun (and cheaper) alternative if you aren't into diving. Check out this article to find some fun snorkeling spots that you can access without a boat!

(Personally, I really enjoyed snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo- I saw all sorts of wildlife like barracuda, anemones, sea slugs!! ~Viki)


Hiking

Hiking? In South Florida? It's more likely than you think! Check out this interactive map to find a hiking trail near you. In addition to hiking, you can find spots for swimming and biking. Best part is, most links include prices, descriptions of the locations, and even how buggy it is!


Kayaking

Kayaking and paddling are great hobbies to have in Florida, especially with all waterways and lakes- you don't even need to go to the ocean!

One resource I wish I found sooner, was this Florida Boat Ramp Finder, provided by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. You can find open ramps near you, what kind of craft you can launch, and it will even tell you if there is a fee!. If you are a student at NSU or one of the surrounding universities, there's a small paddlecraft launch point right off of Orange and SR7, and it's free!


Birding Hotspots

If birding is your game, then the Broward Audubon has just the list you need to find all of the hot birding spots in South Florida.

Places to Go

State Parks

Did you know Florida is home to 195 state parks? Camping, shelling, roller blading, and so many more activities are available at many of these parks! Filter by the type of park, experience, or amenity and find a state park to support today!


Beaches

Tropic like it's hot- here's another fun fact- Florida has 825 miles of sandy coastline. If you don't like a beach, there are plenty more to explore! Visit Florida can help you find the sandy spot of your dreams!


Recommendations from Keri Baker

 

  • Pepper Beach in St. Lucie

  • Jaycee Park in Vero Beach

  • North Point in Fort Pierce

  • Blue Heron Bridge in West Palm

  • House of Refuge in Stuart

  • Jensen Beach Causeway

  • Coral Castle in Miami


Recommendations from Viki Heller

 

  • West Lake Park in Hollywood

  • John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo