Three Reasons to Visit Don Pedro Island State Park
Part of a barrier chain of Gulf Coast islands, Don Pedro Island is best known for its mangroves, wildlife and miles of white sand beaches covered in an abundance of shells and fossilized shark teeth. Exploring Don Pedro Island on a guided clear kayak tour with one of our Florida Master Naturalists is the best way to take in all this island has to offer!
- Mangroves! Mangrove forests line one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, this island helps protect the Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve; one of Florida’s most productive and unique ecosystems of mangroves, seagrass and oyster beds. The island and mangroves protect the mainland coastlines during storms and provide habitat for a large variety of wildlife!
- Wildlife! Exploring the mangroves along the coast in a clear kayak is the perfect way to spot giant hermit crabs, mangrove crabs, seahorses, starfish, rays and fish! We often spot many of Florida’s favorite marine mammals; manatees and dolphins exploring and playing in these waters! From May- October the beach is a critical nesting site for over 200 Loggerhead and Green Sea Turtles nests each year!
- Fossilized Shark Teeth! Partake in a favorite pastime of locals and comb the beaches for not only shells but fossilized shark teeth as well! Millions of years ago this coast was underwater, as the water receded it left behind a fossil layer that is exposed with each storm, wave and tide! We spend 20-30 minutes of our tour exploring the beach so you can keep your eyes on the sand and just might be lucky enough to find one to take home with you!
Visiting Don Pedro Island by clear kayak is sure to leave you with Florida memories you won’t forget of Florida’s best kept secret and private beach!