Page 31 - 2024-2025 Travel Guide to Florida

BEACHES AND OUTDOOR GEMS
A trip to Florida isn’t complete without some much-needed beach time.
Spend the day swimming, kayaking and snorkeling in crystal-clear water at Bahia Honda State Park, located between the historic Seven Mile Bridge and Big Pine Key in the lower Florida Keys. This stretch of sand has been listed many times among the best beaches in the USA.
Home to two sprawling beach parks, Key Biscayne is perfect for oceanfront family picnics. Visit either Crandon Park at the entrance to the island, or Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park at the island’s end. At Bill Baggs, climb the steps of the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse (c. 1825) or kayak along the water’s edge. Or fish on the seawall of Biscayne Bay where you can spot the remnants of Stiltsville, a collection of histor- ical structures on stilts hovering over the water that dates back to the Prohibition-era rumrunner days.
Of course, in Miami, you’ll not want to
NORTH PALM BEACH HIDDEN WILD, JOHN D MACARTHUR BEACH STATE PARK • DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES
miss the sparkling sands of South Beach. Families love the kid-friendly facilities and mini splash and play area at the South Pointe Park beach, while those who want to be in the “scene” head to the beach along Ocean
Drive. Farther north, the beach in Surfside is a favorite among locals because of its laid- back vibe and access to a waterfront walking path. Or check out the Oleta River State Park beach, ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
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