Welcome To Biscayne National Park: Enjoy Kayaking and Canoeing At This Watery Wonder

BY  Ankita Jul 20, 2023

Are you thinking about visiting some of the national parks in Florida? Well, if your answer is a YES, then you have reached the right place! Some people picture castles, roller coasters, and Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzels when they think of parks in the Sunshine State, but Florida's national parks are just as well-known as its amusement parks. Amazing ecological and biological diversity can be found on protected lands from the panhandle to the tip of the Keys. Florida is the only area on Earth where alligators and crocodiles cohabit; the mangroves here serve as kayak mazes, rockets blast off over lagoons, and alligators and crocodiles share the same territory. Keep reading this article till the end to learn about the national parks in Florida that you must visit this year… Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit! There are a number of things that Florida, the Sunshine State, is famous for, and one of them is the National parks. These are a blend of nature and the history that humankind has made. So, if that is something that you want to know, then you have reached the right place! Here are the top 12 best national parks in Florida that you need to visit in 2023: 1. Big Cypress National Preserve The majority of people only experience Big Cypress National Park as a parallax of sawgrass and cypress trees against the billowy clouds of the Florida sky as they speed along I-75 or U.S. 41 via the windows of their vehicle. Most people only attend the visitor center because of need. However, some do so out of curiosity. Big Cypress is only one of two places on Earth where the ghost orchid may be found. It also serves as a refuge for the endangered American alligator, and Florida's elusive but threatened panther population. Big Cypress was the first National Park Service unit east of Colorado to get this recognition as a Dark Sky Place, and it continues to be the southernmost Dark Sky Place in Florida. This national preserve's swamp waters flow softly, producing the ideal environment for the name-bearing cypress trees to grow tall and strong and create a maze beneath their canopy for tourists who are more interested in aquatic activities. Big Cypress is one of the last remaining undeveloped areas in South Florida, where backcountry camps, swamp buggies, and airboats retain a traditional way of life that was developed by indigenous peoples and the pioneering spirit of early settlers. Big Cypress truly has something for everyone, so we are now challenging everyone to give something back to Big Cypress in exchange. 2. Biscayne National Park The most amazing features of Florida's seas are actually located below the surface. When people think of Florida's shores, they typically picture gentle waves lapping at the soft sand under a bright sun. Four separate ecosystems, covering about 173,000 acres, merge to form rich edge communities, or "ecotones." These edges are home to an astounding variety of animals, including pelicans, manatees, sea turtles, hundreds of different types of colorful fish, and flora that are unique to the United States. Over 600 native fish, neotropical water birds, migratory habitat, 20 threatened and endangered species, such as the Schaus' swallowtail butterfly and Florida semaphore cactus, as well as the previously mentioned sea turtles and manatees, can all be found in the park. It also includes the Florida Reef, the only live coral barrier reef in the continental United States, and the northernmost part of the third-largest coral reef system in the world. A number of shipwrecks along Biscayne National Park's Maritime Heritage Trail have found their final resting places because of this reef, a project that was made possible with The Alliance's assistance. 3. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural crossings. It was constructed by the Spanish in St. Augustine to protect Florida and the Atlantic trade route. In case you are wondering about all the things that you can do here, I have you covered. You can engage with the park rangers that are eager to answer your questions. They also provide the tourists with several interpretive opportunities that are active and available throughout the day. You can attend formal presentations where a thematic program that lasts 15 to 20 minutes will be played. You can interact directly with cultural artifacts, get answers to your burning questions, and spend as much or as little time as you like at ongoing informal stations. The historic Cannon demonstration or Musket takes place on the weekends mostly. These are held at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 01:30 p.m., 02:30 p.m., and 03:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The volunteers and rangers also dress up in period costumes to give the tourists the best experience of traveling back in time. You can take pictures of them and with them to experience the lives of the colonists that lived here. 4. Canaveral National Seashore Canaveral National Seashore is a unique location since it's conceivably the only spot in the world where rocket ships, alligators, and nudist beaches coexist. On the east coast of central Florida, Canaveral preserves one of the state's longest stretches of undeveloped coastline. Mile after mile of pristine shoreline offers a tranquil haven for sunbathers, sea turtles, and the occasional nudist; Apollo Beach, at the northern end of Beach Road, is the alternative to the crowded Playalinda Beach right across the street. If viewing rocket launches from the adjacent Kennedy Space Centre on the park's beaches isn't your thing, you can also go kayaking through Mosquito Lagoon, a sizable estuary that occupies two-thirds of the park (but remember the insect spray). 5. De Soto National Monument Conquistador Hernando de Soto's army of soldiers, paid mercenaries, artisans, and clergy arrived in Tampa Bay in May 1539. They encountered ferocious resistance from natives defending their homes. De Soto's search for glory and treasure would be a four-year, 4,000-mile journey filled with mystery, conflict, disease, and discovery that would shape American history. Today, there are a number of things that you can experience at the De Soto National Monument. You can try on the European armor that consists of helmets as well as breastplates. This is one of the most popular activities of the people or tourists visiting this national park in Florida. Aside from that, taking a fishing class and bird viewing are additional popular activities in this national park. Numerous bird species, including gulls, great egrets, herons, as well as American white pelicans, can be found at DeSoto National Memorial.  If you're lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of bald eagles on the Manatee River scavenging for food! The De Soto Rancho Fishing Clinic is available in the park for adults and children aged 7 and older. Participants gain knowledge of fishing gear, casting, fish identification, and knot-making! 6. Everglades National Park Everglades National Park, the most recognizable national park in Florida, is the Yellowstone of swamps, a 1.5 million acre subtropical wilderness teeming with terrifying species that makes Jurassic Park seem like a petting zoo and jet-black waterways and mangrove-lined coastlines. This enormous park, the third largest in the contiguous United States, is too big to handle all at once. Alligator sightings are practically guaranteed along the Anhinga Trail, a leisurely 0.8-mile loop that leaves at the Royal Palm Visitor Centre. You can rent kayaks and paddle up the Flamingo Canal on unnervingly quiet water while passing through deep forests and mangrove tunnels to Coot Bay by continuing to travel along the Main Park Road until it ends at the Flamingo Campground. Keep a watch out for American crocodiles and also manatees along the trip. They enjoy the brackish waters close to the shore. 7. Fort Matanzas National Monument The next on the list of the best national parks in Florida is Fort Matanzas. From Fort Jefferson to Fort Barrancas, forts are as central to Florida’s national parks as gators as well as mangroves. Chief among them is Fort Matanzas National Monument. It's one of the oldest fortresses in the state and is also one of the first forts-as-national monuments in the nation, designated back in 1924. Originally built by Spanish settlers in 1742 to fortify the Matanzas Inlet in St. Augustine, it remains a resolute structure that stretches 50 feet on each side and is 30 feet high. Today, the fort is accessible via ferry, with ranger programs that shed light on its storied history. Other park activities include relaxing at a beach or following the boardwalk trail off the visitor center parking lot, which zigzags through a shaded hammock forest. 8. Dry Tortugas National Park Seventy miles off the coast of Key West is Dry Tortugas National Park, an aquatic wonderland of 99 percent water. The only land out here, seemingly in the middle of the gulf, is a handful of tiny keys, including the main attraction: Garden Key. After the two-to-four boat ride from Key West’s Yankee Freedom ferry terminal, dock at Garden Key to explore Fort Jefferson, an ironclad fortress built in the 1800s that looks like a brick Pentagon. Originally built to defend the Southern coast of the U.S. after the War of 1812, the fort also served as a temporary prison before earning national park status. Today, the structure—and the surrounding keys and waters—tells the stories of maritime combat and marine wildlife, best observed from the Garden Key beaches or along the underwater snorkel trails that surround the fort. 9. Silver Springs State Park For years, tourists have flocked to this location just to take glass-bottomed boat trips through the state's breathtaking springs. In reality, Silver Springs State Park's glass-bottom boat trips were introduced over a century ago, and they continue to be popular in this area of north-central Florida between Orlando and Gainesville. It's understandable, given that the park is home to surreal, crystal-clear water and a variety of animals, including otters, manatees, alligators, rabid rhesus macaques, and monkeys. Despite the fact that swimming is prohibited (due to the aforementioned alligators), Silver Spring is a kayaker's and paddle boarder's heaven, and there are 15 miles of shady hiking trails circling the 4.5-mile Silver River. 10. Point Washington State Forest Point Washington State Forest on Florida's panhandle is a refuge of tall trees and hiking trails. Located seemingly miles away from the state's more well-known parks, you will find the longleaf pine as the main attraction. It is a tree that is so tall that it resembles a hybrid of a redwood and a palm. The Eastern Lake Trail System, which supports the park's recreational options, is surrounded by these pines for miles. The trail system here contains several unpaved trails for cyclists and hikers despite being as flat as a pancake. The nearby Grayton Beach State Park, which follows the coast as well as offers coastal forest trails, swimming chances, and kayaking on dune lakes, is definitely worth exploring. 11. Bahia Honda State & National Park Bahia Honda State Park is a pastoral pit stop on the road to Key West out in the Keys. Calusa Beach, off Big Pine Key, serves as the park's focal point. Its turquoise waters entice swimmers, snorkelers, as well as kayakers alike (equipment for both activities is available for rent). At the summit of the iconic Bahia Honda Bridge lies a truly picturesque setting. It is a historical structure dating back to the early 1900s. This was originally a crucial component of Henry Flagler's ambitious Overseas Railroad to Key West. A little route along a portion of the bridge will lead you to one of the Keys' highest spots. Here you may enjoy panoramic views of the bay below. Stay for a photo-worthy sunset and afterward stargazing if you want to remember it forever. 12. Apalachicola National Park A stone’s throw from the state capital of Tallahassee, Apalachicola National Forest is a natural haven. Florida's largest national forest clocks in at a whopping 633,000 acres. This park has two main sections. They are Bradwell Bay Wilderness and Mud Swamp/New River Wilderness. Between the two, visitors can paddle, swim, hike, fish, and go off-roading or horseback riding. The park also exhibits striking biological and ecological diversity. It goes from longleaf pine sandhills and pine flatwoods to coastal plain hammocks, basin swamps, and floodplain forests. The area teems with wildlife, like woodpeckers, bobcats, gray foxes, as well as alligators. Drink in the diversity on a one-mile loop at the Camel Lake Trail. You can also enjoy by kayaking to Owl Creek from Hickory Landing. You can also take a two-mile route along the Apalachicola River. This gets paddlers up close and personal with that classic Florida river swamp terrain. Wrapping It Up! In case you were searching for the best national parks in Florida, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and queries in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Read Also: Is It Worth It To Stay In An All-Inclusive Resort In Florida? Indian Buffet Near Me In Florida – Best Buffets For You 10 Best Fishing Charters In Florida To Visit Top 8+ Splash Pad Near Me In Florida

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2025

If you’ve ever tried planning a trip with friends or family, you’ve probably asked the same thing: Do we even have enough people for this to count as a group? Or maybe the opposite: can we just make our own plan instead of sticking to theirs? Most companies draw the line somewhere around 8–10 people. That’s the usual cutoff for a group booking. Still, if you’ve got fewer folks, don’t stress.  Many operators will let you set up a custom plan—though, yep, it usually costs extra. That’s just the baseline, though. Everything shifts depending on what kind of trip you’re eyeing, where you’re headed, and even when you go. Those details can totally change the rules. So, if you are also wondering how custom itineraries help groups to plan for the perfect getaway, you are at the right place. In this blog, I am going to delve into the various aspects of custom itineraries for different group sizes. Looking into how they help and how to negotiate them. So, keep reading to know more! What Are Custom Itineraries? Unlike normal or fixed itineraries, custom itineraries refer to personalized travel plans that include a meticulously designed guide for trips. By covering how to travel, where to stay, and what to do, they provide the perfect tour guide. In addition to this, they consider the budget for the trip. So, the guide covers all the tour spots that can be managed within the budget range, which prevents overspending or going beyond the budget. Moreover, they are not generic and do not fit all. That is, based on your specific needs and demands, the itinerary is created with recommended activities, tickets, accommodation options, and more. So, it provides a completely tailored trip guide with detailed planning that meets your requirements. How Do Custom Itineraries Help Group Trip Planning? Generally, travel agents use custom itineraries while planning group trips for parties that do not fall within the size limits. So, they collect the necessary details from the group. Focusing on their budget, trip demands, accommodation needs, and activity plans. Moreover, they use the details to create a perfect group trip plan. Also, they recommend certain activities, trip destinations, and a comprehensive guide for the trip. In addition to this, solo travellers also use custom itineraries for travelling to their favorite places with their preferences. So, based on their destination plans and staycation ideas, they create the custom itineraries. Also, this helps in making the trip memorable and enjoyable without indulging in unnecessary activities, just because it is mentioned in the itinerary. How Do Group Size Requirements Vary By Trip Type? Not every trip plays by the same numbers. Adventure stuff—like safaris or hikes—tends to keep it small.  Sometimes just 4–6 people, which makes sense when you think about logistics (and honestly, it feels better that way). But if you’re talking about big bus tours or a cruise excursion, that number jumps. Think 15–20 people minimum just to make the math work out. Cultural things, like a city walking tour or even a cooking class, usually land in the middle. Around 6–8 people keep it personal but still cover costs. What Seasons Affect Group Size Requirements? Season matters—a lot. In busy tourist months, operators are usually chill because they can mash smaller groups together and still hit their targets.  Off-season? Totally different. They might stick to the rules harder or even raise the minimum just to cover expenses. There’s a silver lining, though. During shoulder seasons, many companies bend the rules a bit to pull in more bookings.  If you can travel, then you’ll probably find more flexibility (and better prices, too). What Hidden Costs Should You Consider With Custom Groups? Custom sounds amazing, right? But here’s the catch: it’s rarely just the base price. Extra fees sneak in. Private guide? Extra.  Special access after hours? Extra. Even behind-the-scenes admin costs for coordinating all the moving parts—yep, also extra. So, with the custom planning for the trips, there are always hidden costs associated with every activity and tour plan. Transport can be tricky too. Smaller groups split costs across fewer people, so per-person prices climb fast. And mid-sized groups?  They’re stuck in that awkward middle—too many for a small van but not enough to fill a full coach. In those cases, a van rental for 15 passengers is often the sweet spot. Oh, and some places add “exclusivity” charges if you want the space or service all to yourself. Always, always ask for a breakdown before you lock anything in. What Options Exist For Groups That Don't Meet Minimums? Didn’t hit the magic number? No big deal. A few workarounds exist. You could pay a small-group supplement (basically a surcharge for being fewer people).  Or, an easier option, join another group that’s already booked and running. Another route: check if the company offers “guaranteed departures.” That means the trip happens no matter what.  Downside is, you won’t usually get custom tweaks—it’s more of a fixed plan. But hey, at least you know the trip won’t get canceled. How Can You Negotiate Custom Itineraries? If you’re leaning toward a custom trip, here’s the trick: go in with a clear list of what really matters and what you can bend on. Operators are way more open to changes when you’re flexible. List out your must-haves (non-negotiable stuff) and your nice-to-haves (things you’d love but could swap).  Be ready to compromise on timing, hotels, or smaller activities. That balance—firm on priorities but loose on details—usually gets you the best outcome. Custom Itineraries For Group Trips So, where does that leave you? Well, step one is simple: jot down a wish list. Split it into “musts” and “maybes.”  When you bring that to an operator, you’ll not only save time but also make it easier for them to build something that actually works.  They see what’s important, and you still give them room to figure out the logistics. That’s how you get a trip that feels like yours without breaking all their rules. Read Also: Planning To Travel The World? How To Pack Up Your Life So It’s Ready For You When You Get Back Are You Planning A Trip To Osaka? This Is Your Quintessential Guide A Step By Step Guide On Planning A Luxury Travel Vacation

BY  Barsha Jun 19, 2025

For RV enthusiasts, Florida's extensive coastline offers a haven of beachfront parks that perfectly combine the natural beauty of the ocean with the comforts of modern amenities.   Imagine parking your RV just steps away from pristine beaches, where you can listen to the soothing sound of waves and feel the warm sand under your feet.   Many of these parks provide easy access to outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and beach combing, making them ideal destinations for relaxation and adventure.   What Are The Best RV Parks In Florida? With various parks ranging from the Panhandle to the Atlantic Coast, there's a perfect spot for every traveler seeking the unique charm of Florida's beachfront locations.  1. Sunshine Key RV Resort And Marina  The Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina has a beautiful scenic beauty that won’t disappoint you at all. Located in Ohio Key, it is a slice of heaven on Earth.   Top Features  Ocean views   Private Marina   Full-Hookup space  Resort-style pool  Pet-Friendly  Benefits   You will enjoy fishing and boating   Ample amount of space for big rigs  Easy access to water sports  Welcoming community   Pet-friendly policies  Best For   Oceanfront living  RV enthusiasts craving luxury living  Cons   The place is occasionally overcrowded  It has premium pricing  2. Bluewater Key RV Resort  The Bluewater Key RV Resort brings opulence and seclusion together with a lush and thoughtfully decorated private space.   Top Features  Private docks are available   Each site has tiki huts  They have upscaled facilities  The landscape provides privacy  Pet-friendly  Benefits   Exclusive waterfront access  A serene environment   Personalized space  Plentiful wildlife sightings  Proximity to Key West   Best For   Campers have a tranquil and premium RV experience  Cons  Reservations fill up fast  Has a high price range  3. Boyd’s Key West Campground  If you are looking for a beckoning adventure at one of the best RV parks in Florida, then look no further than Boyd’s Key West Campground, at the southern edge of the United States.   Top Features  Heated pool   Tiki hut picnic area  Waterfront sites   Fishing pier  24-hour security  Benefits   Water-based activities on-site  A pet-friendly atmosphere  Quick access to Key West   Variety of site options   Full-service amenities are available  Best For   Best for outdoor fun  Excitement of the Key West attractions  Cons  It is noisy due to the proximity to Key West  There is a lack of privacy  4. Bahia Honda State Park  For all the nature lovers out there, the best park for you is the Bahia Honda State Park, with its numerous water sports for you to enjoy as well.   Top Features  Snorkeling opportunities  Marina services  Pristine beaches  Nature trails   Historic bridge views  Benefits   Abundance of marine life  Direct beach access  Picturesque surroundings  Quite environment  Opportunities for stargazing   Best For   Great for nature buffs  Great fun for water sports lovers  Looking for tranquil beachfront camping experience  Cons  Limited space during peak season  Strict regulations for pet access 5. Fiesta Key RV Resort And Marina  If you are looking for the perfect tropical getaway then look no further than Fiesta Key RV Resort and Marina.    Top Features  Oceanfront sites  Full-hookup capabilities  Resort-style pool   Marina with boat slips   On-site restaurant and bar  Benefits   Engage in social events  Dine without leaving the resort  Enjoy fishing and boating  Experience waterfront living  Access all-encompassing amenities  Best For   Self-contained resort experience   Lots of things to do and social opportunities  Cons  Higher cost for self-contained resort experience   Mostly busy and less privacy  6. Leo’s Campground – Key West's Hidden Gem  Looking for a budget-friendly getaway, kept hidden like a jewel with all the genuine Key West culture, then you need to visit Leo’s Campground.  Top Features  Waterfront and shaded sites  Close to Key West   Community experience  Competitive pricing  Free Wi-Fi  Benefits   Easy access to local attractions   Intimate camping grounds  Significant cost savings  Friendly staff  A cozy vibe  Best For   Close proximity to Key West’s lively downtown  Budget-conscious travelers   Cons Fewer amenities compared to others  Smaller in size  7. Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge  For the Anglers and their families, the Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge is among the best RV parks in Florida, with dockside amenities, and welcoming ambiance.  Top Features  Boat ramp access  On-site fishing options   Bait and tackle shop  Heated pool  Waterfront lodging   Benefits   Family-friendly environment   Variety of lodging options   Great for fishing  Engaging community events  Easy boating   Best For   Activity-rich   Nautically themed camping experience   Great for families and anglers  Cons  Since popular, hard to get in  Fishing focused so might not appeal to everyone  8. Jolly Roger RV Park And Resort  If you are looking for a stunning oceanfront view right from your RV, then the Jolly Roger RV Park is the one for you.   Top Features  A plethora of activities   Pet-friendly   Sunset viewpoints  Oceanfront sites  Very welcoming staff  Benefits   The sound of waves wakes you  Stunning sunset views   Engaging water sports and other activities   Pet-friendly environment  Very friendly community   Best For   Activity rich atmosphere  Great for RV campers looking for ocean access directly  Cons  Limited privacy in the camp site  During peak season it is packed  9. Grassy Key RV Park & Resort  If you want to experience a serene, tailored intimate camping atmosphere, then Grassy Key RV Park and Resort is the one for you.   Top Features  Stunning ocean view access  Secluded  Pet-friendly   Access to private beaches  Full hookup utility   Inviting community areas  Benefits   Bask in the natural surroundings  Pets are welcomed to accompany  Personal space away from crowds  Convenient amenities  Access private beaches for leisure time   Best For   Campers looking for some peace and quiet  Scenic getaway with your pets  To relax and unwind by the water  Cons  A bit remote compared to other tourist spots  Less on-site activities compared to large parks 10. Key Largo Kampground And Marina   Here at Key Largo Kampground you are gonna camp in style with a diverse community and superb areas for fishing and coral reefs.   Top Features  Wide range of site options  Marina access  Swimming pool access  Beach area access  Get kayak rentals   Benefits   Can accommodate RVs of different sizes and styles  It has direct access to water activities   Multiple pools for swimming   Wildlife sighting opportunities   A fun family and friendly environment    Best For   Diverse groups are welcomed   Family friendly communal atmosphere   Have direct access to Key Largo’s aquatic activities  Cons  It gets very busy during peak seasons  The premium sites can be costly  The Ultimate Best RV Parks In Florida            For a smooth experience, the Fireflies and Campfires Florida RV Directory is helpful for reading reviews and gathering tips from other travelers.  Prepare your RV by checking all systems, including water, electricity, and waste disposal. Ensure a first aid kit and basic tools are on hand for any minor repairs.   Taking these steps ensures you're ready for the journey and the stay at your beachfront destination.  No matter which park you choose, Florida's beachfront locations provide a wonderful mix of natural beauty and opportunities for fun.   Whether savoring a quiet moment by the ocean or enjoying activities with your loved ones, the right RV park will help you create lasting memories.