We kicked off our Florida mini-break with a 2 hour kayaking adventure in Oleta State Park! We heard from friends of ours who had done this tour a few weeks back that we had to fit it into our schedule and they were right; it did not disappoint. We lucked out with fantastic weather and a really amazing tour guide who took us through the mangrove forests, out into the bay and around Raccoon Island all while teaching us about the ecology of the area.
We learned so much about how they are repopulating and protecting the native sea grasses that sea turtles and manatees need to survive. We saw some stingrays, lots of fish and even raccoons on Raccoon Island! They aren't rabid and people actually get quite close while hanging on the beach. The oysters that grow off the mangrove roots were really fascinating to see too. It was really peaceful to just be out on the water taking in the stunning scenery - wasn't a half bad workout too!