Florida’s seashore, left in its natural state to allow it to do what it will, can be seen and enjoyed at John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. The jungle grows wild, the beach is not protected against erosion and shells and sea weed tangle up here and there. Loggerhead turtles make their nests when its their season to do so and alligators come and go as they please. The osprey flies where it wants, makes its own nest in a place of its own choosing and has done so for hundreds of years, and the best part of all is, at this state park, you can watch it happening.
You can join a kayak tour that goes out onto the estuary and, depending on the season, see manatees, dolphins, and sting rays and other wild creatures in their own habitat. That tour costs $20 apiece and it will only go out during high tide, so it’s a good idea to call the park and make reservations and find out exactly when you should be there. A free film is shown in the William T. Kirby Nature Center explaining nature in the park and exhibits further examine what was seen in the film. The nature center has an acrylic front tank with marine life carrying on under the root system of red mangroves. There were two live snakes in the exhibits, as well. The area is especially interested in the loggerhead turtle because it comes ashore here to lay its eggs.
Free brochures are available to follow the nature trails and a number system allows you to identify the actual specimens. A board walk runs for one third of a mile across the estuary and you can either walk it or ride the tram. Once across you can use the bathhouses to change into your bathing suit or just go out and sit on the beach. If you want to be alone with nature, it’s a wild but beautiful, quiet place. Waves and rip tides are dramatic and should be considered when taking children on the beach. Off shore reefs offer interesting snorkeling possibilities. Guided tours area available for every interest and park rangers are very available and knowledgeable. Entrance to the park is $4 a car load.