Florida is known for its pristine beaches and gorgeous stretches of shoreline, but there's one coastal attraction that many have yet to experience. Like something from another world, the waves near Santa Rosa Island glow with a spectacular blue during the summer months. This phenomenon is caused by a special kind of plankton that inhabits the area. Here's more on this enchanting spectacle that needs to be seen to be believed:
Navarre Beach is an absolutely breathtaking gem located on Santa Rosa Island in the Gulf of Mexico.
While the area is beloved for its soft white sandy beach and jawdropping sunsets, there's even more to these waters than meets the eye during daylight.
For those interested in a truly unique excursion, kayaking tours can provide an unbelievable interaction with these glowing waters, which are also visible near Merritt Island.
When I'm looking for hiking trails in Florida, often I consider how far the distance from the parking lot is. I want my hiking journey to start in nature, not once I close my car door! So for this hiking trail in Little Talbot Island State Park, you don't have to worry about trekking too far from your car to the trail. Dune Ridge Loop is a 4.1-mile trek near Atlantic Beach, Florida. Half of the journey is right on the ocean, making it one of the best hikes in the state.
The Dune Ridge Loop is a scenic trail located within Little Talbot Island State Park, one of Florida's barrier islands situated near Jacksonville. This loop is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, showcasing a diverse array of ecosystems, including dunes, maritime forests, salt marshes, and coastal hammocks.
The Dune Ridge Loop is a moderate hike that spans approximately 3 miles, making it accessible to many. The trail's terrain is diverse, with sandy paths that wind through coastal dunes and packed dirt trails that cut through forested sections. Although the trail is well-marked and easy to follow, it is not paved, which might make it challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.
This trail offers hikers the chance to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty. True to its name, the Dune Ridge Loop provides access to high dunes that offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. These dunes play a crucial role in supporting the island’s ecosystem, hosting a variety of plant and animal species. As you venture further, the trail meanders through a dense maritime forest where live oaks draped in Spanish moss, saw palmettos, and other native vegetation create a cool, shaded environment. The Dune Ridge Loop is also a popular spot for birdwatching, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, with frequent sightings of osprey, great egrets, and songbirds.
The trail is open year-round, but the most pleasant time to visit is during the cooler months from November to March when temperatures are moderate and humidity is lower. While summer hikes are possible, they can be hot and buggy, so starting early in the day is advisable. Wildlife activity on the trail varies with the seasons—migratory birds are most active in spring and fall, while summer sees an increase in insects, making bug spray a necessity.
Hikers should come prepared with plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there are no water sources along the trail. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended due to the exposure on the dunes, and comfortable hiking shoes with good traction are advisable. While the trail is generally safe, it’s important to stay on the marked path to protect the fragile environment and avoid any potential hazards like snakes, which are part of the island’s ecosystem.
Little Talbot Island State Park offers a range of facilities, including restrooms, picnic areas, and parking, with a nominal entrance fee that supports trail and facility maintenance. After completing the Dune Ridge Loop, visitors can explore other areas of the island, such as its pristine beaches, which are popular for swimming, fishing, and shelling.
Also, make sure to sign up for an Alltrails Plus membership before you hike! That way you can get even more information before you start your journey.
While Florida might not be known for being a state where people take lakeside vacations, you’d be surprised at how many beautiful, remote lakes there actually are in the Sunshine State. Most visitors and vacationers indeed tend to stick to the coastline, waterparks, and theme parks to get a true taste of Florida. But, we have an incredible lake that might just change everyone’s minds. Take a tour of the delightfully remote Lake George, Florida. This is one of the most underrated lakes in Florida and it's worth a visit the next time you'd like to take a fun adventure.
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Lake George, Florida is the second-largest lake in the state, following the ever-impressive Lake Okeechobee.
The lake is fed from the northern flow of the St. Johns River, as well as other spots like Salt Creek, Silver Glen Springs, and Juniper Creek to name a few.
The area that surrounds the lake is steeped in rich history, as it was part of the Timucua Indian settlement back in the 1500s. A few hundred years later, the territory was sold to a botanist, John Bartram, and named after King George.
One of the best ways to view this lake is by boat or other non-motorized watercraft! You can easily spend an entire afternoon paddling the lake and enjoy the solitude of your surroundings.
Keep in mind there is always wildlife in Lake George, from snakes to alligators and everything in between. As always, please be careful when you visit. And it's always smart to let someone know where you'll be and when you expect to return.
Need a place to stay while you're exploring? Check out these vacation rentals near Barberville, FL. Have you ever been to Lake George in Florida? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section! Meanwhile, when you're visiting Lake George and you happen to be close to Astor, take a detour southwest toward Alexander Springs for a truly underrated natural gem.
Looking for even more to explore? Check out this beautiful footage of the Florida Everglades:
