This Beautiful Wetlands Preserve In Florida Is A Real Hidden Gem

Looking at the Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach, you would probably never guess its secret. This 50-acre preserve in Palm Beach County is full of turtles, alligators, frogs, and all kinds of native plants. It’s also heaven for bird-watchers, with more than 150 species seen on site.

A clue to its secret is in its name. Wakodahatchee comes from the Seminole for “created waters.” The park, which was once unused utilities land, is continuously transformed by 2 million gallons a day of treated wastewater, allowing it to be reclaimed in a truly beautiful way. At the same time, the wetlands further filter the water and create a habitat for some of Florida’s most spectacular flora and fauna. It also provides a relaxing place for visitors to walk the 3/4-mile boardwalk and learn about innovative ways human beings can better interact with our environment.

The next time you plan a Florida road trip or travel near Delray Beach, be sure to add this stunning park to your plans (especially you photographers and nature-lovers out there). The Wakodahatchee Wetlands are open from 7:00 a.m. until sunset, every day of the week, and there is no charge for admission.

Here are just a few of the images captured around these man-made wetlands: