Everglades National Park

Staying in Gulf Coast Villa Rentals? A Trip to the Everglades Cannot Be Missed

When you've made the choice to go on vacation to Florida, you'll find that there are a wide variety of options available to you. From the turquoise waters of the Gulf Coast, to the nightlife of Miami to the world-renowned theme parks of Orlando, vacations in Florida offer something for everyone in the family. Though many families plan their visit to experience those parts of Florida that have been built up - both physically and by reputation - many others find that it's the natural elements that leave the greatest impact on their memories.

For some, the impact will be left by the soft sand beaches. For others, the indelible memories will be created during a trip to Florida's Everglades. When you pack up the family for a trip to the Everglades, you'll want to be sure that you leave your Florida villa rental with your fishing gear, a readiness to go on a hike and a great sense of adventure.

Because the Everglades are wetlands, you'll find that the area presents great opportunities for fishing and boating. Part of the allure of fishing in the Everglades is that both freshwater and saltwater fishing are possible.

Those who would rather explore the wetlands than fish in them will find that they too have plenty to discover. Seahorses, starfish, tropical fish species, coral and sea sponges all make the waters of the Everglades their home. Renting a canoe can give your family the opportunity to go out and see what you can discover.

Similarly, hikes - and even bicycle rides - through the trails of the Everglades will give you the chance to discover even more natural beauty and native wildlife. Some trails are noted more for their abundance of wildlife including alligators, turtles, herons and egrets. Some trails offer spectacular views overlooking the area, while others offer an opportunity to walk amongst a forest canopy and see vegetation that is native to the area.

If you would rather be led on a tour of the area rather than left to discover the area for yourselves, you'll find that there are narrated tours by tram that take you through the heart of the Everglades. Also there are narrated boat tours that give visitors a chance to sit back, relax and learn about the area and the wildlife while leaving the part of getting there to someone else.

While the Everglades has so much to offer - from fishing and hiking to biking and canoeing - and so much to see, many who are visiting the area find that it's only the beginning of their adventure. Many choose to look for other opportunities including air boat rides, visits to the Everglades Alligator Farm, explorations of tropical gardens or snorkeling and diving at the nearby Biscayne National Underwater Park.

Although many who travel to the Everglades will choose to camp out in the area, you're likely to find that the comfort of Gulf Coast villa rentals makes the short travel from "home" to the Everglades well worth your while. You'll be able to enjoy the richness of the area by day and by night.