Visit Florida - Worth the Drive 2008 - (Page 9) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Outdoors 9 3 4 8 Koreshan State Historic Site Paddle the Estero River and have a look at Koreshan State Historic Site, where a New York doctor named Cyrus Teed once tried to build a utopian community in the Florida scrub. Much of this fascinating pioneer settlement has been preserved. The scenic paddle up river through pinelands and oak groves is well worth the effort. (239-992-0311, www.floridastateparks.org/koreshan) park. The north end of the island still has the lush vegetation that once covered all of the region’s barrier islands. A boardwalk leads out to the pass, which is a prime spot for fishing. Climb the observation tower for a 360-degree view of the park and the local waters you’ve been cruising. (239-597-6196, www.floridastateparks.org/delnor-wiggins) Goodland/Marco Island This old-time Florida fishing village on the southeast side of resort-haven Marco Island is doing its best to resist development, so the town still has an Old Florida feel. Paddle in and catch a sunset at Stan’s Idle Hour Seafood Restaurant, which offers bounty from the sea and live music on the water every Sunday afternoon. (239-394-7549, www.marcoislandchamber.org) The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail is a 1,500-mile sea kayaking route that wraps around the entire state. For detailed information and maps, go to www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/paddling/saltwater.htm. Lovers Key State Park Four islands make up this 1,600-acre state park known for its pristine beaches and waterways and miles of rustic hiking trails. The lagoons and tidal flats around the islands are a breeding ground for snook, trout and redfish, making this an angler’s paradise. (239-463-4588, www.floridastateparks.org/loverskey) Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park The current is swift at the pass, but if you’re an experienced paddler and the weather’s favorable, it’s worth a visit to this stellar state http://www.floridastateparks.org/delnor-wiggins http://www.floridastateparks.org/koreshan http://www.floridastateparks.org/loverskey http://www.marcoislandchamber.org http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/padding/saltwater.htm
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