The Everglades, in the southwestern tip of the Florida peninsula, is famous for its natural beauty and is the largest remaining sub-tropical wilderness in the continental United States. Made up of about 10,000 islands, it is one of North America’s premier natural wonders. Considered a natural heritage, the Everglades is a popular destination for those wanting to experience unspoiled nature and learn about the intricate eco-system of the subtropics.
The Everglades encompasses an area of 1.5 million acres and is a network of marshes and wetlands. Nature and animal life are the main attractions in this area, where you can watch birds and other wildlife. In fact, the Everglades is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles co-exist. Even without an interest in photography, you will soon want to take it up!
As a popular nature-oriented vacation spot, the Everglades offers a plethora of activities for young and old. Bird watching, camping, boat tours, kayaking and fishing, just to mention a few. There are plenty of different tour operators that cater to every kind of excursion requirement. The Everglades is a fragile eco-system and preservation of nature is an important aspect of life here and all visitors should be aware of this.
Highlights
Seafood Festival: being right by the ocean, seafood is a major attraction in the Everglades; if you are in the area in early February, make sure you don’t miss the annual seafood festival.****
Historic Smallwood Store and Museum: in Chokoloskee, is the best place to learn about early settlers and the history of the Everglades; see how early settlers battled with the wilderness.
Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve: the two most famous national parks that teach visitors about preserving nature and offer a range of outdoor activities.
Beaches: with over 10,000 islands, there are plenty of sandy white beaches to explore in the Everglades, the most popular being Barefoot Beach Preserve at the northern tip of Collier County and Marco’s Island.
Museum of Everglades: learn about the fascinating history of the creation of the Tamitami Trail and early settlers in the Everglades.
Von Liebig Art Center: is dedicated to promoting and advancing contemporary art; see exhibits, shows, workshops and art festivals throughout the year, with no admission fee.
Palm Cottage: located right by Naples Pier, is the oldest home in Naples. It is fully restored so visitors can experience the splendour of Victorian living.