Hello!

Well, this is an interesting question! You definitely would need both bug spray and sunscreen in the Everglades. As for a combo product, I've used Avon's Skin So Soft products in the past, and they make a combo product that works well for me personally.

Also, Deet-based products will destroy plastics, so stay clear of the stuff if you are wearing clothing that is constructed from technical fabrics, and definitely don't use sunscreen and then apply Deet afterwards. There are some studies that this may lead to serious health issues.

That's my suggestion - hope it works for you!

-Kevin

Patrick -

For information on road biking across Florida, I always use reference the Florida Cyclist website, which has great maps with all sorts of different routes to choose. Great stuff!

-Kevin

Elizabeth -

You can't beat John Pennekamp and Bahia Honda State Parks for camping and snorkeling! Check out my John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park video for some pre-trip excitement!

Other stops between Orlando and the Keys? There's too much! I'd take Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) through Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve , stopping at the Oasis Visitor Center, and make sure you stop and take the obligatory family photo at the Nation's smallest post office in Ochopee.

My recommendation is to check out the VISITFLORIDA.com "Been There, Haven't Done That!" list. It's full of great off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Have a great time!

-Kevin

Hi Kat!

One week, that's all? Oh, you are going to have to stay for longer than that!

For starters, I'd recommend checking out Hillsborough River State Park.  It's a wonderful park filled with Florida history and natural beauty.  Take a short stroll along the trail near the rapids, or spend some time paddling a canoe.  There's also bike rentals and a pool!  Definitely check out Hillsborough River State Park.

Big Cat Rescue is another great place to visit. It's a nonprofit animal sanctuary that provides a home to exotic cats (think lions and tigers here!).  Big Cat Rescue does great work and always is a cool place to check out.

Another great state park to visit would be Little Manatee River State Park.  Hiking, wildlife viewing, and kayaking are my favorite activities here. 

One of my most-visited bike trails is in Tampa, at the Flatwoods Wilderness Park.

Meals?  I usually eat off of a camp stove!  But when I'm feeling like a night out on the town, the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City is a great choice.

Oh, here's a video clip from the rapids at Hillsborough River State Park to give you an idea of what you'll see.  Have a great time in Tampa!

Thanks, I'm glad you are enjoying the blog!

Ooh, Ichetucknee Springs, huh?  That's a fantastic trip, especially on a hot summer day!  I know you'll have a great time.

As far as some stops along the way, I'd like to suggest that you check out the VISIT FLORIDA "Been There, Haven't Done That!" article.  It's a great way to find just what you are looking for - quaint, quirky, and off-the-beaten-path.

Enjoy Ichetucknee Springs, I'm a little jealous!

You are in luck!  Dolphin World has a swimming program in Miami, which will probably be your best bet.  It's the closest location to Ft. Lauderdale, and they offer a variety of enjoyable and educational programs.

Visit http://www.dolphinworld.org/dolphin-swim/miami.html for more information.

Have fun!

Hi Sue!

I've got just the place for you - J.N "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge is located on Sanibel Island. It is an absolutely amazing natural place to visit, especially if you are into birding.  There's a fantastic education center, some short nature/hiking trails, and plenty of canoe trails as well!

Visit http://www.fws.gov/dingdarling/VisitorInformation.html for all the info you'll need.

For lodging, I'm a fan of the Holiday Inn there in Sanibel when I'm not out stomping around in the woods.  Hey, there's an idea - maybe you should camp!

-Kevin

Rick-

Yep, this should be possible!  Canoe Country Outfitters in St. Pete has a huge rental fleet, and I am pretty sure that you can rent by the week.

Give them a call at 1-800-330-1550 and I'm sure they'll take good care of you!

-Kevin

Hi Kathy -

There are great trails near Lake County that are perfect for people who are just starting out.  I'm not too sure if you are looking for off-road trails or paved trails, so I'll assume you are looking for a flat paved rail-trail.

For a good paved nature ride, head to Clermont and hop on the James A. Van Fleet State Trail.  I'd recommend parking at the Green Pond Trailhead since there are parking, restroom, and picnic facilities there.  Check out the map for directions.

Have fun and let me know if you need more biking information!

-Kevin

Greg -

Head over to the east coast, it's only about an hour or so away, and you can view a spectacular sunrise over the ocean. I like to stop along the Flagler Beach area, there's usually a few people out walking along the shore.  Great stuff for photographers!

I've got a short video of a sunrise over Flagler Beach that may help to get an idea of what to expect.  Check them out here:

http://www.youtube.com/user/wahoohiker#play/uploads/35/7nod9frGavs (Sunrise video)

http://www.youtube.com/user/wahoohiker#play/uploads/36/s-Rr2N5fXyA (Flagler Beach fishing, taken about the same time as the first video)

Hope this helps - I'd love to see those pictures from your trip, so send a few my way!

-Kevin

Missy, you are in luck! This is an easy one!

A perfect spot near Orlando for snorkeling is Blue Spring State Park. Beautiful scenery, cool refreshing water that is crystal clear, and an all-around great place to spend a summer day.  You'll love it!

One tip - get there extra early, when the park opens.  In the summer months, Blue Spring State Park will fill to capacity and close the gates.  Some other options are Wekiwa Springs State Park, and Kelly Park in Apopka.  Both are awesome places as well, and they fill up fast too.  You've got options!

Have fun, and be sure to let me know how it goes!

-Kevin

I'm not too sure that there's an actual alligator farm near Indialantic, but if it's alligators you are after, check out Gatorland in Orlando!  Gatorland's not called the "Alligator Capital of the World" for nothing - they even have white gators there!

Visit www.gatorland.com for pricing and attraction information.

You are in luck!  I recommend you stop at nearby Curry Hammock State Park.  The birding and paddling opportunities there are terrific.  There's also a short 1.5 mile nature trail as well.

Take a look at the Curry Hammock State Park website for more information.

Have a blast at Hawks Cay Resort!

For kayaking, you should check out A Day Away Kayak Tours in Titusville.  It's less than an hour away and the paddling in Mosquito Lagoon is awesome!  Think about taking the bioluminescent kayaking trip to Mosquito Lagoon, where the water glows with any movement.  It's an incredible experience!

For an airboat tour, Camp Holly Airboat Rides is located in Melbourne.  I've never taken one of their tours (so many places, so little time), but take a look at their website and give them a call. Another option is to head further inland to the Saint Cloud area, which is still only about an hour or so away.  Spirit of the Swamp Airboat Tours takes you through an area that's known as "Central Florida's Everglades".

Hope that helps, have fun in Melbourne!

Paul-

September will be a little warmer, in the mid-to-high 80's during the daytime, and falling into the lower 70's at night.  November the days will be a little cooler, with the average being about 77 degrees.  Both times are excellent times to visit the Tampa area!  While you are in the area, consider a trip out to Fort Desoto Park, where you'll find both history and great outdoor activities.  Oh, the beach was named America's Best Beach in 2008!

Have fun in Tampa!

Well, this sounds like fun! 

OK, for snorkeling, Egmont Key is a popular destination.  For a snorkeling excursion, check out Adventure Cruises for an all-inclusive trip. 

If you want to swim with the dolphins, Discovery Cove is where you want to be.  It's in Orlando, but the drive is only about an hour and a half away.  That's pretty close for this type of experience!

Enjoy your visit to the Tampa area!

Camping for free?  Be prepared to rough it!

The area around St. George Island is fantastic, and although the camping is not free, I'd suggest you try to get a spot at St. George Island State Park.  I know it books up through the summer months, but you may be able to find some tent camping spots open.  There are some primitive camping spots there too if you are interested, and those may be free. Contact the park for details.

Although it's a long way from St. George Island, another great option is Gulf Islands National Seashore in Pensacola.  I had a great time there recently, and you can primitive camp at the Fort Pickens Loop A Campground.  Again, I'm not too sure that those are free, but you can contact the park for details.  It's a great area, with some of the most fantastic beaches you can find.

There are some other areas, like Tate's Hell State Forest near St. George, and in the Apalachicola National Forest, but I don't think those would make for a romantic honeymoon!

Kristin -

Homosassa and Crystal River both have clear springs, but I think you are interested more in an all-inclusive trip.  For that, I'd take a drive to Alexander Springs in the Ocala National Forest.  Here, you'll be able to camp, hike, canoe, and swim in a crystal clear spring - all in the same general area!

Here's a link to a great article that was in the Orlando Sentinel.  Check it out, I think you'll find that this is the place for you!

-Kevin

Hi Lauren!

Anastasia State Park is one of my top picks for RV camping too!  Have you checked out my RV Camping video?  If not, here's the link:  http://visitflorida.com/video/video_id.217/expert.13/

The other one you are after is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.  It's a terrific place to camp, kayak, hang out by the beach, and snorkel!  We are shooting another video at that location in just a few weeks, so check back!

Another good one is Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.  The state purchased Gregory E. Moore RV Resort some time ago, and it is a great spot to set up and explore the pristine beaches of Northwest Florida!

Hope that helps, have fun RV camping in Florida!

Hello Anita!

While any intrusion into these sensitive wetlands always causes some form of damage, I try to have visitors consider a less-intrusive experience by taking a guided kayak or canoe tour.  But, I totally understand why folks enjoy touring the Everglades by airboat, and it allows visitors to get to places quickly and I sometimes take an airboat ride to remote areas myself.  You can either see a little bit of the Everglades in a few hours by paddling, or you can see a whole lot more of the area in a shorter amount of time by airboat.

For a good tour, Everglades Safari Park is a popular destination with clean facilities, well-maintained boats (minimizing impact), and some wildlife shows as well.  Check out their website and give them a call!

Thanks-

Kevin

If you are interested in snorkeling and seeing some coral reefs, look no further than John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.  Full-facility camping, fishing (in certain areas), and paddling make this park a very popular destination.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is located in the Keys, just above Key Largo.  Take a ride on the glass-bottom boat too, it is awesome!

Have fun!

Hello!

You'll find plenty of stops near Orlando and Treasure Island on the Great Florida Birding Trail.  On their Web site you'll find a great new tool to help locate different species of birds in an area.  It's been a great help for me, and I'm sure that it will assist you as well.  Check it out here: http://floridabirdingtrail.com/birdtrip/default.htm

Have a great time!

I've seen quite a few black bears in the Ocala National Forest over the years, so that would be my suggestion.  If you are interested in camping, Juniper Prairie Campground is a great place.  I'm not too sure if there are any guided tours, but the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park has bears if you are interested.

Enjoy!

Hello-

Those are great places to see nesting birds! While you are in Saint Augustine, make sure to visit Anastasia State Park for a great beach and wildlife experience.  There's kayak rentals (paddle Salt Run, it's fantastic!), bicycle rentals, a great snack bar, and an awesome Ancient Dunes hiking trail.  Fishing is very popular here as well.

I camp at Anastasia about four times a year, and have a blast every time!  You'll have a great time and there's plenty to keep you busy.

Have fun!

I love Bok Tower Gardens!

First, I'd suggest you check out www.boktowergardens.org for the official scoop on Bok Tower.  The tower itself is surrounded by some of the most stunning landscaping you'll find.  You can't go up in the tower (unless you are a member), but the craftsmanship is incredible.

There's geocaching too if you are interested!  It's a beautiful place for a day trip, and is also a frequent pick for weddings.  Check it out!

Driving between Tampa and the Keys?  Sounds like my kind of trip!  Since you'll be on the west coast of Florida, I'd suggest taking Hwy 41 from Tampa to the Miami/Homestead area.  This will give you the opportunity to hit a lot of cool places along the way.

There are so many fantastic places that you can stop and enjoy some outdoors recreation and nature, but here are a few that come to mind:

Hillsborough River State Park - One of Florida's oldest state parks built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps.  Great birding, hiking, and paddling can be found here.  You can rent bikes and canoes at the park.  Take a short hike to the rapids, it's a perfect spot for a picnic.  There's about 6 miles of good hiking on the Banyan and Florida Trails as well.

Myakka River State Park - Paddle down the state-designated Wild and Scenic Myakka River where wildlife abounds.  Rent canoes and kayaks at the Myakka River Outpost.  Also, the Canopy Walk and Observation Tower are not to be missed.

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park - Terrific birding awaits here at Charlotte Harbor.  While in Charlotte Harbor stop by the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center and the Alligator Creek Preserve hiking trails.

Collier Seminole State Park - One of my favorites, in spite of the mosquitoes in the warmer months (bring insect protection)!  Great swamp hiking, paddling, scenery, and Florida history.  Get a real taste of the Everglades.

Take a break from driving at the Oasis Visitor Center and learn about the history of the Big Cypress National Preserve.  This is a great spot to get a few pictures of alligators.

In the Keys, my two favorite places are John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Bahia Honda State Park.  If you are interested in snorkeling, John Pennekamp is the place.  Beautiful!  At Bahia Honda, rent kayaks and enjoy a great paddle around the park.  Bahia Honda is a good spot for birding as well.

 Hope that's enough to keep you busy - have a great time exploring the wild side of Florida!

Hi Debby -

I suggest you visit Morgan and Dave at Kayaks and Beyond.  Their shop is situated very close to Three Sisters Springs, and they offer all sorts of kayaking trips.  Morgan and Dave are both American Canoe certified kayaking instructors and have expert knowledge of the waterways all over Florida.

You'll have a great time, and I'm positive you guys will see tons of wildlife!  I've got a short video clip of Three Sisters Springs to get you motivated.  Check it out here:  http://wahoohiker.com/2008/07/09/exploring-three-sisters-springs-2/

If you stop by, make sure you tell them that Kevin sent you!

Have fun!

Hello Abbie!

You'll find plenty of nature in North Florida as it is one of the premiere destinations in Florida for a multitude of outdoor activities.  Birding, hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and nature walks can be found throughout the region.

When I travel to North Florida, I typically camp at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs.  From here you can enjoy a very scenic hike on the Florida Trail, take a canoe trip down the famous Suwannee River, or biking the trails at Big Shoals Conservation Area.  You'll find plenty to do in White Springs!  Also, Florida's Nature and Heritage Tourism Center can be found here, stop in and get some information on nature-based events and destinations throughout the state.

Let me know if you need information, I'm here to help!

-Kevin

Sounds like a fun time to me!

I'd recommend you check out Blue Spring State Park.  It's nearby in Deland, and you can rent canoes from the concession in the park.  Plus you can take a swim in a cool Florida spring too!

Hiking near Miami?  It can be done!  My favorite hike can be found at the southern terminus of the Florida National Scenic Trail through Big Cypress National Preserve.  It can be more of a swim sometimes, but when water levels are low, it's a wonderful hike.

Check out the Florida Trail Association website for more details.

Thanks!

Hi Kay -

You should check out the Florida Trail Association.  Florida's terrific for walking and hiking, and has great hiking community.  There are chapters throughout the state that host different outings.  You'll love it!

Visit the Florida Trail Association's website for more information.

Hello!

I contacted the Park Supervisor for the Pinellas Trail, Jerry Cumings, and here's what he has to say:

"The best areas and most scenic section of the trail are from Dunedin to Palm Harbor. If you go to the website www.pinellascounty.org/park you will find the trail guide. The trail guide will show areas to park. A good area to park would be at Curlew Road and Alt. 19 in Dunedin at the Publix Shopping Center. You can skate west to the state park or south to downtown Dunedin."

Hope this helps, and have fun!

-Kevin

Hi Steph!

Skydivers, huh?  I've been skydiving once (OK, it was a tandem jump, but hey, you've gotta start somewhere!) and absolutely loved it.  You should also check out Lauren Tjaden, VISIT FLORIDA's Sports and Adventure Expert, and read up on some of her adventures as well.  She has tons of great information on cool places to visit that you might want to consider in your travels.

If you are starting in Destin and heading to Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, there are a lot of places to stop along the way.  If you enjoy the beach, St. George Island State Park has one of the most pristine and scenic beaches found anywhere.  Check the weather forecast, but even if it is a little chilly, it's still a fantastic place to visit.

What about a stop over at Florida's famous Suwannee River?  One of my favorite places in Florida is White Springs, a small town with a lot of terrific outdoor recreation opportunities.  A relaxing paddle down the Suwannee River makes for great memories.  You can rent canoes or kayaks at American Canoe Adventures, and they provide shuttle service as well.  Make sure to visit Stephen Foster Folk Culture State Park and hike along one of the best sections of the Florida National Scenic Trail while you are there.

I can't think of November without thinking of Manatees.  Is that weird?  Now that we are getting a little cooler weather, the warm waters around Crystal River makes for perfect Manatee viewing.  You'll find plenty around King's Bay and Three Sisters Springs.  My friends Mary and Dave at Kayaks and Beyond can show you the best places to paddle.  Also, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is not to be missed, the Felburn Wildlife Care Center is one of many features of this park that you may be interested in.

Oh gosh, I could go on and on.  I'll hit on just a couple more really quick.  Wekiwa Springs State Park is a great place to stop on your way across the state, and before you head north on I-95, spend some time at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.  Both are beautiful locations that will have you wanting to come back for more!

Well, have a blast exploring the natural side of Florida!

-Kevin

Hi Dawn -

Just a few miles south of Naples on US-41 (Tamiami Trail), you'll find Collier-Seminole State Park.  The Blackwater River is a paddler's dream and is lined with mangroves on both sides.  You can also access the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, the world's largest mangrove forest, from the park as well.  The mangrove tunnels and islands in this area are spectacular!  I camped for a few days at Collier-Seminole in September, unfortunately I ran out of time and didn't get out on the water. 

I'll be heading back down to Collier-Seminole State Park in a few months where I plan to spend a few days kayaking around the area, and camping on some of the mangrove islands.  It really is a great trip that I haven't been able to do in several years, and I'm looking forward to it. 

Have fun, let me know how it goes, and send me some pictures!

-Kevin

Terre-

It's always a great time to travel to Florida!  My favorite months of the year are October and November.  Right now, the summer humidity is starting to decrease and there is a hint of fall in the air!  The mornings are cool and crisp, and it warms up to the mid 80's, perfect for a trip to the beach.

There are lots of events scheduled during these months, people are getting back outside and spending a lot of time on the trails.  I camp, hike, and bike more in October and November than I do the rest of the year.

Hope this helps!

-Kevin

Hello Katie!

What you wrote basically describes what my wife and I do on a regular basis here!  It's always good to talk to couples who are coming here to do the same.  In November, the weather might get a little cooler in the mornings, so think about that when planning beach stops.

Oh gosh, where to start?  OK, you are arriving in Miami. If you are looking to head to the Keys, I'd start there and work your way back north.  Since you only have 14 days (you guys should stay longer!), head down to Key West if you haven't been there before.   Visit Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, Florida's southernmost state park.  Make sure to so over to the Southernmost Point marker and take the obligatory photo as well, it makes a great memory!   Another great thing to do to wrap up a day in Key West is the sunset celebration at Mallory Square. 

I've been to all the state parks in the Keys, but one of favorites is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. It's a great place for relaxing at the beach, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Since you are on a road trip, take Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) through the Everglades and Big Cypress National Preserve.  I'd actually spend a 2-3 days here exploring the area. 

Continue on up the west coast to Sanibel and Captiva Islands.  Hook up with the Tarpon Bay Explorers on Sanibel for some biking and kayaking opportunities.  Stay the night, or several, Captiva and Sanibel Islands are really great!

A stop at Caladesi Island is definately in order.  Who wouldn't want to check the best beach in the U.S.?  Even if the weather is a little cooler, it is still a wonderful place to visit. Besides the beach, Caladesi offers some wonderful hiking and kayaking, and plenty of wildlife viewing.  You can only stay for four hours (I'm sure you'll take the ferry service), but it's worth the trip and you will not be disappointed.

Don't rush, however.  Any of these places are great to stay a few days in.  Relax, enjoy the great outdoor opportunites in Florida, and have a great time!  If you need any more information, please let me know, and make sure and send me some pictures!

-Kevin

Hello!

Another great place that comes to mind near Orlando is Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka. Since you have already visited Kennedy Space Center and the Canaveral National Seashore, Wekiwa Springs will afford you the opportunity to check out some great inland wildlife and nature, rounding out your Florida outdoors experience.

Ever taken a swim in a refreshingly cool Florida spring?  Wekiwa Springs is one of the best that you'll find.  Bring along your swim gear and take a dip!  There's fantastic hiking, biking, and kayaking here as well.

OK, here's a tip.  Resist the urge to jump right in the springs and do some other stuff first.  I've been there several times hiking, and finshed off the day with a swim.  It's a great reward at the end!  I did have to take a little nap afterwards in the parking lot, I was that relaxed.

Visit the Wekiwa Springs State Park page for more information and directions.   

Hello Natali -

Generally, Florida is not known for hot (or warm!) springs, but guess what?  Florida has a hot spring! Also, the term "hot springs" can mean a few different things, depending on wo you ask, but I think you are after something above 80 degrees or so. 

Unfortunately, it's not within an hour of Marco Island, sorry!

We've all heard the about Ponce de Leon and the Fountain of Youth, right?  Well, what many believe that Warm Mineral Springs in North Port is the location that Ponce de Leon was searching for.  The spring is 87 degress year-round, and is said that the mighly mineralized waters actually relieve a lot of illnesses and ailments.  Sounds like what 'ol Ponce was looking for, doesn't it?

Actually, this spring is less than two hours from Marco Island, so it still might be a destination to consider.

There are other springs that are considered "warm", but nothing like you find in other states.  The weather is hot enough here in Florida, I'm content to take a dip in one of the many cool, clear springs that you'll find all over the state!

 -Kevin

Hello!

I highly recommend Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground and Resort for your stay.  It's a perfect place to get close to all the Orlando action and have a Florida outdoors experience at the same time. 

There are miles of trails to ride bikes along and tons of other recreational opportunities to enjoy.  It's one of the top RV destinations in the nation, and you'll camp alongside many who have chosen to stay up to six months here. 

I camped out at Fort Wilderness a couple of months ago, and had a wonderful time!  I talked to many people who were staying at Fort Wilderness, from overseas and other states, and they all agreed that they made the right decision to spend time there.  I have no doubts that you will have a great trip!

Here's a link for more information about Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground and Resort:

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/resorts/resortLanding?id=FortWildernessCampgroundResortLandingPage

November is a great time to see Manatees, and you will find plenty around Homosassa and Crystal River.  Pelicans are common in both Homosassa and around the Sanibel Island area.  Both of these places are wonderful places to visit, and they offer a tremendous amount of wildlife viewing and outdoor opportunities.  You'll have a great time!

For more information, make sure to contact the Visitors and Convention Bureaus in both areas.  They will be able to further help you make the most of your trip.

For the Homosassa/Crystal River area, go to http://visitcitrus.com/.

For Sanibel Island, visit http://www.fortmyers-sanibel.com/.

Gerhard -

I think you will find the Withlacoochee State Trail to your liking, it is a very popular location for bikes of all types.  It is 46 miles in length and passes through many small towns and is very scenic.  I know several people who park, ride the full length one direction and turn around and ride back to their vehicle, making a 92-mile round-trip ride!  Cool!

Up for the challenge?  Visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/regions/crossflorida/trails/with_state.htm for more information regarding the Withlacoochee State Trail.

Please let me know if I can be of any more assistance, and enjoy your visit to Florida!

-Kevin   

Chris -

Gatorland is the place to go to check out alligators and other exotic wildlife while in the Orlando area.  In operation since 1949, Gatorland has expanded to include a water park as well.  It's a fun place to visit!

Here is their contact information, enjoy your trip to Orlando!

http://www.gatorland.com/

14501 South Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32837
Phone: 407.855.5496
Toll Free: 800.393.JAWS