After our visit to the Players Championship at  Sawgrass last year, we decided to pay a visit  Jacksonville. We had stayed in downtown Jacksonville for 2 nights for the golf and it was a short drive from the hotel to the city centre.

It was a beautiful May day and we arrived early to find a much quieter city than we had anticipated.  It is a large city, situated on the Johns River and only about 40km from the Georgia border. On a Friday morning we expected it to be busy with people and traffic as you would find in most British cities through the week. Not so, it was pleasantly quiet with hardly anyone around.

We knew nothing about  Jacksonville before we arrived but learned  about it’s history as we strolled around. We parked quite easily near to the Jacksonville Landings. This is situated right on the river and is a place for shopping and eating and where concerts are held. It was just opening up as we arrived and I imagine it would be better to visit in the evening. The restaurants have a lovely view of the river. There are walkways alongside the river and a few people out jogging or walking. This is where we found out about the history of the town from the information displayed along the way. We stopped and watched the Main Street Bridge open, the whole of the middle section slides up to allow the river traffic through. There’s probably a much more technical term for it but it was quite impressive to watch!

We then walked further in to the city and took a monorail across the river. We then walked back across the Main Street Bridge, given my fear of bridges over water this was quite a challenge for me! We really should have found out more before we arrived and it would have been nice to stay longer but we had a long day ahead and planned to visit the Jacksonville Beaches on the Atlantic coast too.

We try to do something new each time we visit Florida and Kelly park had been recommended to us so on a beautiful day in May we decided to visit. It was outside the school holidays so it was relatively quiet which was good for us as we had no kids with us!

The park is located at Apopka and is well sign posted and easy to find.  We stopped at one of the roadside shops to hire inflatable tyres which cost $5 each, when we got there we realised that any one of the inflatables we had in our pool, even the foam ‘spaghetti’ floats would have done just as a good a job.

There’s plenty of parking and a building with a café and changing facilities. We had gone prepared with fold up chairs, cool box with plenty of drinks and sandals to wear in the river. We didn’t really know what to expect, although we had read about it, it wasn’t what we imagined, it was better. The river runs through the state park and is very clear and slow and meanders through the trees.

We took our floats to the point to get in which is along a boardwalk, under the trees. The weather was glorious and hot and the water in the shade looked as if it would be freezing but it wasn’t actually too cold, once you were in. It’s quite rocky and takes a little bit of negotiation to get in, unless you’re really brave and jump straight in the deep bit.  After that it’s shallow and sandy and really slow moving. You just get on your tyre and relax and let the current take you down river. You can see turtles basking in the sun and although we were slightly alarmed when we heard a rustling off to the side, it turned out to be a deer coming down for a drink.

We spoke to some locals who had been going there for years, they assured us that there are absolutely no gators in there!  It’s a natural lazy river ride and we loved it. There’s a part where the river opens out into a shallow pool with a sandy ‘beach’ area to sit in the sun. There are also several barbecue pits and picnic tables. There are trails to walk through the state park as well.  I imagine it gets really busy in summer but the kids would love it. A great and cheap alternative to the Orlando water parks.

Ever tried the Airboat tours then it is a must for any Florida Vacation.

We have tried a few and Big Toho Airboat tours has been the best so far. It is located just down from Highway 192 in Kissimmee Town.

When we arrived there were a few people waiting as well so we knew it was a popular trip and should be good. We were not disappointed.

As we sauntered out of the Marina a slow pace the Captain then opened the throttle as we headed across one of the biggest lakes we have seen. The widing and turning of the airboat was a scream.

As we headed into the Swap area under the Mangrove trees we headed along a causeway that was so picturesque. The captain gave us all a local history lesson and made the trip event more enjoyable.

The next part was the best as we waited in anticipation as we drove through the water and reeds looking for our alligator. We were not disappointed, even on this hot day, the captain took us almost right on top of a large alligator just basking in the afternoon sun. This was fantastic as we snapped away to add to our holiday photo collection.

As we headed a bit out into open water we saw all the local birds, the feathered kind of course. As we drew closer to a samll island and the reeds again we came across above five small alligators that could not have been born long.

After over an hour out on the lake we headed back to the marina, at speed. It was like being on a theme park ride again - fantastice. Weaving and turning across the water.

As we got off the Airboat we had one last treat in store for us. The Captain then took a real life alligator out of the cooler and then let us hold it for a while for another picture opportunity. What a great afternoon spent in the real Florida.

Do not miss the opportunity and take the Big Toho Airboat ride. We will again!

Before we found Melbourne Beaches we stopped for a short while at Cocoa Beach near the Pier but the cost for parking the car was excessive and we think Cocoa Pier has seen better days.

We headed south towards Melbourne and came across the North and South Beaches of Melbourne. Both of these are maintained by the Public Authorities and volunteers.

North beach has a small refreshment place to get a drink or that much needed burger. The advantage is that there was no charges for parking.

As you make your way on to the clear beach there are warnings about the rip tides but here there are lifeguards on this part of the beach. It was good to lay there on the beach and listen to the waves crashing towards us. Once you got hot you could retreat to the covered areas where there were tables and benches and even barbecues for you to eat your snacks. Although you could not see the beach or sea from here.

We moved on to South Beach and whilst it was much the same with the crashing waves and fairly isolated beach you could sit out of the sun under the covered areas. Again there were the resident lifeguards on hand if you decided to venture out for a swim.

Having had enough sun for the day in the early afternoon we made our way back towards Melbourne City pass North Beach to Bikini Beach. Here there was the Sand Restaurant and Bikini Bar where they served great food and drink. From the Bkini Bar we looked out to the beach sipping our Bud light whilst watching the guys and girls having a go at some surfing on the waves.

All in all a great day out at Melbourne. But do bear in mind it is a good hours drive from Kissimmee.

We arrived on a weekday which is the best day to visit otherwise it will be packed even more than normal.

When you arrive there is only a small City Car Park and a couple of others that now charge $20 for the day. We found that you can park in the Hyatt Hotel right on the beach for only $16. It is in their multi-storey and out of the hot sun, so really consider parking there.

The Hyatt hotel don’t mind you parking there and are quite happy for you to wonder around the Hotel. Even in your swimsuit.

Once we found our spot on the beach in front of the hotel we used some of the new Palm trees for some shade. Did some swimming and sunbathing as you do.

We then noticed that on the 8th floor of the Hyatt Hotel they were advertising their Swim, Bar and Grill. So we went to check it out and found a fantastic patio with a bar. The Special cocktails were only $6 as well.

The hotel allowed you to stay there and use the pool and the sunbeds, what a find.

The view of the beach and the sea followed by the sunset was fantastic from the 8th floor. So give it a try.

Remeber to ask for your bar or food receipts and providing you spend $20 in total they will give you FREE parking - what a bonus.

So when you next visit Clearwater check out the new Hyatt Hotel right on the beach front.

Cocoa Beach – the local billboards say it all – this is Orlando’s Closest Beach. It is just 45 minutes drive away from Orlando International Airport.  Take the aptly named Beach line Expressway (528) straight east, keep driving and arrive.  Buy a souvenir at Ron Jon’s Surf Shop, and then head to the beach – fantastic and not crowded at all.

Kennedy Space Center - is just north of Cocoa Beach.  It has an amazing museum of space exploration (known as the KSC Visitors Complex) and is well worth a full day visit. If you plan to catch a shuttle launch, be prepared to sit in traffic for several hours driving back to Orlando, but the spectacle of an actual launch will be well worth it.  Our whole family loved the day.

Daytona Beach - if all you are looking for is sun, sand and surf, then a quick trip Cocoa Beach will get you there a bit quicker and give you all you want.  However, Daytona Beach is less than two hours away, and it has a special appeal to Spring Breakers, bikers, and NASCAR fans. If you stay until sunset, the brightly colored Ocean Walk Shoppes and Movies offers a fantastic ocean view.  The beach is really hard and many cars and pick ups drive along it (slowly of course)

Tampa area – is less than two hours drive away from Florida on the West coast.  Check out Florida’s Gulf Coast in the historically rich city of Tampa. Nearby at St. Petersburg there are upscale shopping areas and museums while Clearwater Beach offers warm waters and powdery white sand.

Silver Springs – is another “Old Florida” icon.  It is famous for its glass bottomed boat rides, animal exhibits, and jeep safaris through the Florida forest. Silver Springs was opened in 1878, and is Florida’s oldest commercial tourist attraction.  It is where Johnny Weismuller filmed some of the earliest Tarzan movies.  A little drive away from Orlando but well worth visiting for the crystal clear springs.

Ocala National Forest – is not far from Silver Springs. It is the world’s largest sand pine forest and covers around 366,000 acres. Hiking, fishing, and canoeing are popular activities in this natural attraction.

Mount Dora - with its Victorian architecture, boutique shopping, and lovely lakefront, Mount Dora is one of the most genuine small towns in Central Florida. You can even see some of the few remaining citrus groves on the outskirts of this well preserved village.  My wife just loved Mount Dora with its fantastic quaint shops.  You can also go on a boat ride on the lake.  Well worth a visit.

Sebring – is a sleepy town less than two hours due south of Orlando, Sebring has a charming downtown district, and is home to the Sebring International Raceway, which is the oldest permanent road racing track in North America. Nearby Highlands Hammock State Park offers campsites and hiking trails.

Blue Spring State Park - with the water temperature at a constant 68º F, Blue Spring State Park in nearby Volusia County (where Daytona Beach is located) is a winter refuge for manatees between November and March. In the warmer months, human visitors enjoy snorkeling and canoeing.

This is great because you can pitch your gazebo to protect you from the sun and you can also set up a bar-b-que for lunch.

There are numerous food and beverage outlets along the shore and restroom facilitys. Every 15 minutes or so an ice cream van goes up and down the shore stopping when you flag it down.

You don’t even have to take chairs and umbrellas’ because they can be hired when you’re there. Bikes can be hired to go along the beach and small quad bikes. The one thing i like to do is watch all the custom and classic cars go by, some are amazing but sometimes there music blasters are a bit too load but then again this creates a good friendly atmosphere. There is probably one big down side to some people and that is there’s no alcohol allowed on the beach and they do have patrols going up and down checking.

If you’re worried about safety don’t because when you enter the beach they give you a leaflet which explains about the different currents along the coast line and what you can do and what you’re not allowed to do. When you drive onto the beach they mark out lanes on the sand with cones which makes sure you don’t go too near the sea. There are life guards about every 200 yards so you can be sure your children are watched, the guards are trained to spot when the dangerous currents are approaching and they sound there whistles and shout for people to get out of the water until the danger as passed.

Overall Daytona Beach is a great day out for all the family, its clean, safe, the waters lovely and warm especially during the summer period and you will get a fantastic tan but be sure to put plenty of suntan lotion on.

Wildlife: Wildlife sightings vary depending on the time of year, the weather, and even the time of day. Birds, reptiles, mammals, insects, and a variety of native plants including wild orchids may be seen from the boardwalk. Due to natural predators such as mosquito fish and dragonflies, mosquitos are not a great nuisance in the swamp.

Directions: It is at the end of Sanctuary Road West, north of Immokalee Road (County Road 846), approximately 15 miles east from Exit 111 on I-75. Visible, brown informational signs along Immokalee Road assist in finding the Sanctuary. Do NOT take Exit 123 (Corkscrew Road) which does not connect!

Bok Sanctuary

1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales,
FL 33853. Tel: 863.676.1408.

A place of tranquillity in beautiful surroundings. Bok Sanctuary is a mix of gardens (full of azaleas and camelias in the early Spring), peaceful woodland walks, surprising views (the highest point in Florida), mirror-like lakes, beautiful birds, a coral pink tower from which a carrillon of bells plays music hourly and a live recital at 1pm and 3pm each day - with the shade of centuries-old live oak trees to enjoy the music under. We have been back many times and it is always ‘new’. They have frequent ‘special events’, outdoor concerts, exhibitions and displays. Call ahead to check what’s on or go to: http://www.boksanctuary.org/

Directions from I-4, East or West: Take Exit 55 and proceed south on U.S. Highway 27 for approximately 23 miles. Proceed two traffic lights past Eagle Ridge Mall. Turn left on Mountain Lake Cut Off Road. At the caution light, turn right (south) onto County Road 17 (also known as Scenic Highway). Proceed on CR 17 for 3/4 miles. Turn left (east) onto Burns Avenue (also known as County Road 17-A). Proceed on Burns Avenue for 1.3 miles. On your left you’ll see a main entrance sign to Historic Bok Sanctuary. Turn left for the entrance gate.

There was free parking and free entry, a good start so we duly signed the visitors book and set off, not really knowing what to expect.  We arrived at the same time as a party of schoolchildren and could hear one of the teachers remonstrating with Tyler to be sure not to bring anything out of the woods! I wonder what he did last time! They went off the visitor centre and we set off along the boardwalk.

The preserve is part of a forest which has been restored and reading the information along the trail we learned that many species of animals, birds and insects have been returned to their natural habitat since the project began.  We saw lots of butterflies and birds but really it was more about what we could hear as much as what we could see. There were tall trees and thick vegetation on either side of the boardwalk and a cacophony of sound, none of it made by humans.  

There were plenty of information boards telling us what to look out for as we strolled along in the heat.

After about half an hour or so we came to an observation deck overlooking Lake Apopka and to our great delight we could actually see a couple of gators out on the lake. Not a place for a dip then. We could hear a loud noise which we assumed to be bullfrogs but try as we might we couldn’t spot them. 

There was lots of interesting information about the history of the Lake and the agriculture around it over the last few decades. The lake has also been brought out of decline and we stayed a while just listening and watching before meandering back.

Directions: drive South of Haines City on US27 then to Lake Wales on S.R. 60, the park is 14 mi. northeast of the city.

Moss Park (close to Orlando International Airport)
12901 Moss Park Road
Orlando FL 32832

Moss Park offers 1,551 acres of recreational facilities. The park provides two boat ramps, two playgrounds, pavilions, swimming facilities, lake-side beach, ball fields, campsites, hiking trails, picnic areas with grilles, recreations programs, RV campsites, and volleyball courts. The area is open to the public from 8 a.m. To 8 p.m. Admission is $1 per person. Campsites are $10 for Orange County Residents and $15 for the general public. There are discounts for Senior Citizens. Pavilions can be reserved for $50 per day for up to 100 people. The park is located off the 417 Greeneway at SR 15, on Moss Park Rd., 4 miles Southeast of Narcoossee Road .