Feeling a Bit Chilly? Southern Florida has the Solution

It may be obvious that I’m dreaming of warmer weather because this time I’m traveling in my mind to the south and, if I could, I would be leaving right this instance to visit Cayo Costa, Florida for what is considered an undiscovered beach. The area is beautiful in the Cayo Costa State Park in Southwestern Florida south of Sarasota. If you don’t want crowds and you want to forget about how fast paced life can be, then this is your place.

So what makes this State Park/beach area so different from all of the others in Florida? Well, it’s simple. The Cayo Costa area is one that feels as if it has never been claimed by any particular community. The white sand that lies upon the 9-mile strip is practically untouched. Now, there are some areas that are blocked off. On Lacosta Island, you will find a bird nesting area. There are many birds calling this area home because they are practically undisturbed. The low concentration of people makes it the ideal place for creatures to hang out.

The most northern area of Cayo Costa is protected, so it looks the same way it probably would’ve looked when Spanish traders first arrived in the area. This is probably one of the rawest nature areas you will come across in Florida and it makes a great couples getaway. There are not a lot of activities that children can engage in unless they like to fish and spend time on the beach. Of course, everyone loves the beach. However, it is good for children to have other activities to engage in as well.

Because the area is so raw, it is best for you to bring your own lunch. You can sit beneath one of the mangrove canopies to eat and relax. Now, if you do want to bring your children with you, if you have children, make sure you bring tote bags. This is because the beach has a variety of treasures other than large bird populations.

The treasures that you will find include some of the best seashells you will find in the world, such as fully formed lightning whelks. There are tiny coquina shells everywhere in the sand. There is a lot to find that you won’t find anywhere else. I’ve been to many beaches and the shells that I’ve encountered are nothing like these.

Also, when going to Cayo Costa, it is good to know that it is an island and you will have to hitch a ride via private boat to go there. There is also a ferry that travels from Pine Island, Florida that will take you to Cayo Costa so that you can spend all day on the island or camp out there overnight. Whatever you decide to do, this is a very peaceful place to spend time.