Florida is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the country—from dolphins and manatees to alligators and exotic birds. For families looking to connect with nature and create lasting memories, it’s the perfect place to explore the outdoors. So, whether you're planning a trip or just exploring, we’ve gathered the best spots to experience Florida’s wild side.
Here are five of Florida's top places to spot wildlife.
1. Myakka River State Park
Located in Sarasota, Florida, Myakka River State Park features birds, alligators, turtles, and other wildlife living in their natural habitat. This incredible park highlights the beautiful Myakka River and offers experiences such as kayaking, nearly 39 miles of hiking trails, biking trails, and a beautiful canopy walkway where you walk amongst the treetops. The Big Flats Marsh provides excellent birding opportunities, as well as the Birdwalk, where you will often find many volunteers who will help you locate and identify birds. If you'd like to immerse yourself among the wildlife, there is camping available within the park, as well as several cabins that are located off the beaten path. Be sure to book your camping site or cabin in advance as these tend to book up rather quickly.
2. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
This amazing refuge was created specifically for the protection of the threatened Florida manatee and offers a variety of ways to interact with Florida wildlife. There are unique wildlife viewing opportunities, as well as refuge trails found at Three Sisters Spring, a boardwalk, fishing, boating, kayaking, and guided tours. Manatee season begins in mid-November and ends in late March offering the perfect chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. There will also be plenty of opportunities for unique birdwatching and interacting with other Florida wildlife in this spectacular refuge.
3. Seaside Seabird Sanctuary
This unique wildlife rehabilitation facility rescues, treats, and then rehabilitates sick and injured birds to release them back into their natural habitat. Visitors are invited to walk through the 1.7-acre sanctuary, home to nearly 100 permanently disabled birds. Several unique events and guided tours are available throughout the year, including public bird releases, birds of prey presentations, and even pelican hand-feeding that takes place daily at 2:30 pm. This must-see attraction in the Tampa Bay area offers access to a variety of interesting birds such as pelicans, vultures, parrots, hawks, and even owls, making it a key stop to add to your wildlife tour of Florida.
4. Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park provides visitors with the rare opportunity to be among species like manatees, American crocodiles, and Florida panthers in their natural habitat. Take a walk on the Anhinga Trail, or get up close and personal with a boat or kayak tour where you may be able to see crocodiles, manatees, or dolphins. You should also be ready for plenty of views of alligators along the Tamiami Trail where the large reptiles line the canal banks in the wilderness of the Big Cypress National Preserve.
5. Smugglers Cove
Take advantage of the rare opportunity to play 18 holes of mini golf among 20-30 American Alligators! This adventure-style golf course features unique opportunities to learn about, interact with, and even feed live alligators! The beautiful courses also feature cascading waterfalls, caves, and even a pirate ship in a lush tropical landscape. Fun challenges await you at every hole, making it obvious why they have been voted "Best Mini Golf in Florida" 5 years in a row! This incredible wildlife experience can be found at 5 great locations throughout Florida, making Smugglers Cove a must-see attraction whether you live in Florida or are visiting.
Florida is home to endless wildlife adventures, and these exciting spots are just the beginning. Whether you're discovering manatees in crystal-clear springs or spotting exotic birds in quiet wetlands, there’s always something wild waiting to be explored. No matter where your outdoor adventures lead, make sure to stop by Smugglers Cove for some mini golf fun and to see if you can "Survive the Gators!" For more information, contact us today!
