A transformation occurs the further south you roam the Atlantic Coast of Florida. South of Sebastian Inlet, seaside residences start out low, often grouped in private colonies. Barrier islands are narrow, with miles of extensive public beaches protected by state parks and National Wildlife Refuges. Cities cluster along the Indian River Lagoon–Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, Stuart, Jupiter–with numerous public lands set aside along the tributaries feeding the waterways.
Then Southeast Florida’s most compressed corridor of cities, spanning all the way to Homestead, takes over at Palm Beach. High-rises tower over tiny patches of green space between Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami, their larger public parks well west of the highest density communities. A tropical vibe begins, infusing the Miami waterfront and the agricultural Redlands. It continues through the relaxed Florida Keys, where Caribbean-style forests are the norm.
Regional Destinations
Recent Articles
Florida’s Front Line Beaches (6/6/2024) During World War II, two specialized coastal training bases in Florida contributed to the successful D-Day landings at Normandy and at beachheads beyond.
Florida Great Outdoors Initiative (10/14/2023) Through January 13, 2024, the Florida Great Outdoors Initiative offers park visitors a half-price discount on annual passes to Florida State Parks.
Trans-Florida Central Railroad Trail (4/2/2019) If you've seen the prominent Trans-Florida Central Railroad Trail over Interstate 95 at Fellsmere, you've probably wondered about it. Here's what we found when we stopped for a ride.
How To Prepare For A Backpacking Trip (3/19/2019) What does a hiker need to spend a week, or a month, or three months on the trail? Here are trail-tested suggestions for backpacking in Florida for trips of a week or more

























