The Paradise Coast is so very aptly named as there truly is no other vacation destination in our country like southern Florida!
A wonderful point to begin your magnificent exploration is the amazing subtropical marsh and wetlands of the Everglades close to Marco Island and Naples. Not many people are aware that the wetlands cover over 1.5 million acres, about one third of the southern Florida peninsula. Get your camera ready for a shot of an American Alligator and American Crocodile and then be astounded by any of the more than 400 species of land and water animals!
Here are some wonderful ways s to explore:
Naples Bicycle Tours;
239.825.6344, naplesbicycletours.com
Bike the Everglades with knowledgeable guides. All levels are welcome and equipment provided, reservations required.
Ah-Tah—Thi-Ki Museum;
Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation: 877.902.1113, ahtahthiki.com
Experience the history and rich culture of the Seminoles thru guided tours and walk thru a re-created ceremonial ground.
Ave Maria;
5076 Annunciation Circle, 239.352.3903, avemaria.com
Visit the first major U.S. Catholic university built in 40 years. Explore the award-winning Oratory architecture and Collier Family Farms. Come shop, dine and experience “Old Florida” nature and wildlife on an Orange Jeep Tour.
Clyde Butcher’s Swamp Cottage;
52388 Tamiami Trail MM 54.5, Ochopee. 239.695.2428, clydebutchersbigcypressgallery.com
Extend your day trip with an overnight stay in the Big Cypress Preserve surrounded by more than a million acres of wilderness. The Swamp Cottage and Niki’s Bungalow are ideal for nature lover’s. Located behind the fine art nature photographer Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery. An Everglades experience you won’t forget.
Everglades Excursions;
1010 6th Ave S., Naples. 239.262.7300, experience-naples.com
Everglades Excursions departs Naples and Marco Island daily. Explore some of the national sanctuaries that contain some of the most amazing natural wildlife in the United States. Reservations required.
Everglades Island Airboat & Totch’s Island Tours;
929 Dupont St., Everglades City, 866.626.2833, Airboateverglades.com.
Take the airboat ride of your life and venture deep into Florida’s most mysterious habitat. See where the alligators live and expect to encounter wildlife that you’ve never seen. Choice of backcountry or open water route.
Explore Old Florida;
Evergladesrodandgun.com, clydebutcher.com, micoosukee.com
Drive east on US-41 into Big Cypress National Preserve and the Everglades. Eat at historical Rod and Gun Club in Everglades City. View Clyde Butcher’s photography at Big Cypress Gallery and see America’s smallest free standing Post Office in Ochopee. Learn about the native settlers at the Miccosukee Indian Village.
Fisherman’s Village;
1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 800.639.0020
Its location on pristine Charlotte Harbor makes this a top stay and play waterfront destination. Enjoy boutiques and shops, fine dining, an array of water recreational activities including harbor cruises, fishing charters, boat & kayak rentals, spacious villa vacation rentals, Military Heritage Museum, live entertainment and special events. Open daily.
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge;
1 Wildlife Dr., Sanibel Island. 239.472.1100.
Fws.gov/dingdarling. Part of the largest undeveloped ecosystem is the U.S., this 6,400 –acre refuge is home to more than 220 species of birds. Tours, trails, fishing, kayaking and bicycling are available. Education Center features interactive exhibits and a hands-on area for children.
Key West Express;
Fort Myers Beach, Marco Island, Key West, 888.877.9359, keywestexpress.us
The fast & fun way to visit the southernmost point in the U.S. Leave in the morning and be in Key West for lunch when you travel aboard the jet-powered vessels of Key West Express. Stay for a day or an extended stay. Sundeck, flat-screen TV’s complete bar & food service available.
Pure Naples Fishing;
1200 5th Ave S., Naples, 239.263.4949, purenaples.com
Full range of fishing experiences suitable for novice to seasoned anglers. Deep sea, calm bay, group, private or specialized charters offered daily to off-shore, bay area and in-shore locations. Catch grouper, snapper, kingfish, shark and more. All fishing support, licenses, bait, tackle, and your catch cleaned, bagged and iced included.
