Florida's sandy beaches an access guide

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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COASTA-L ZCYOK- INFGR .t IT Tl CENTER

FLORIDA'S SANDY

BEACHES

An Access Guide

COASTAL ZONE
INFORMATION CENTER

Beach sunset

FLORIDA'S SANDY

BEACHES

U. S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA AM Access Guid e
COASTAL SERVICES CENTER
2234 SOUTH HOBSON AVENUE
CHARLESTON, SC 29405-2413

Published with the assistance of the Division of
Beaches and Shores, Department of Natural Resources,
and the Division of Coastal Management, State of Florida
Department of Environmental Regulation. Additional funding
was provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.

University Presses of Florida
University of West Florida Press/Pensacola

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UNIVERSITY PRESSES OF FLORIDA is the central This publication was funded by the Department of En- Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication Data
agency for scholarly publishing of the State of Flor- vironmental Regulation, Office of Coastal Manage- Main entry under title:
ida's university system, producing books selected for ment, 2600 Blairstone Road, Tallahassee, FL 32301, Florida's sandy beaches.
publication byt&eJf.uptyzeditorial eowmiteesof, i through a grant from the United States Office of Coastal "Beach Access Project-Office of Coastal Studies,
Florida's nine public universities: Florida A&M Uni- Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmo- University of West Florida:-p.
Includes index.
versity (Tallahassee), Florida Atlantic University spheric Administration, under the Coastal Zone Man- 1. Florida-Description and travel-198--Guidebooks.
1. Florida--Description and travel--1981- --Guidebooks.
(Boca Raton), Florida International University agement Act of 1972, as amended. 2. Beaches-Florida-Guidebooks. 3. Recreation areas-
(Miami), Florida State University (Tallahassee), Uni- Florida-Guidebooks. 4. Parks-Florida-Guidebooks.
versity of Central Florida (Orlando), University of Printed in the U.S.A. on acid-free paper I. University of West Florida. Office of Coastal Studies.
F309.3.F53 1985 917.59'0463 84-29922
Florida (Gainesville), University of North Florida ISBN 0-8130-0820-4 (alk. paper)
(Jacksonville), University of South Florida (Tampa),
University of West Florida (Pensacola).
ORDERS for books published by all member presses
of University Presses of Florida should be addressed
to University Presses of Florida, 15 NW 15th Street,
Gainesville, FL 32603.

Beach Access Project

Office of Coastal Studies

University of West Florida

David W. Fischer
Principal Investigator

Jerome F. Coling Donald E. Henningsen Deborah Joy
Chief Cartographer Project Director, Field Work Chief Writer, Layout

Staff

Cartography Coordination, Research Writing
Ernest Barnett Mary Morris David Sengenberger (April-August 1983)
Robert M. Brown Mary Morris
Illustrations
Craig Shipley Peggy Riedell Secretaries
Michael Brown J. Seagle Maureen Waldron
Sandra Newell
Administration
Donald Whitmai

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Indian Rocks Beach, upper Pinellas County

Acknowledgments

We gratefully acknowledge the use of the path-finding publication the California contract administrator, helped to secure timely information and aided us in many
Coastal Access Guide, prepared by the California Coastal Commission and pub- small but significant ways to ensure completion and publication.
lished by the University of California Press in 1981. This work both helped to ce- The many county and city directors of parks and recreation units throughout
ment our idea of the need for an access guide and aided us in designing our own Florida deserve our special thanks for furnishing us with information to complete
effort. Madge Caughman from the California Coastal Commission acted as a con- this guide. We especially thank Walt Rothenbach, director, Sarasota County Parks
sultant for our project by helping us in arranging the format. and Recreation, and his staff, including Bob Cann. Sarasota County was chosen as
In Florida we acknowledge the early support of State Senator W. D. Childers and our pilot study area, and these persons helped us to become acquainted with coastal
his staff for their interest in helping to fund our project. David Worley, director, park and access issues as well as to design our questionnaire.
Office of Coastal Zone Management, Department of Environmental Regulation, The artwork was contributed by Peggy Riedell and J. Seagle, illustrators in the
funded the project through a grant from the Federal Office of Coastal Resource Division of Beaches and Shores, and the Marine Research Laboratory, Department
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, under the Coastal of Natural Resources, respectively.
Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended. Finally, we appreciate the information and photos received from the Division of
We especially appreciate the devotion and enthusiastic support of Deborah Flack, Tourism, Department of Commerce, and both the Bureau of Education and Infor-
director, Division of Beaches and Shores, Department of Natural Resources, through mation and the Marine Research Laboratory, Department of Natural Resources.
whom this project was funded. Her office and staff, especially James Balsillie, the

vii

Scale
o 118 Miles

Florida's counties with sandy beaches

Contents

A Note on Sources x Coastal State Parks xvii
Foreword by Governor Robert Graham xi State Park and Recreation Areas xviii
Introduction xii State Park Camping xx
How to Use the Guide xiii National Beach Areas xxi
Public Access xv

East Coast Southwest Coast

Nassau County 3 Pinellas County 115
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway 6 Manatee 126
Duval County 7 Manatee County 127
Drive-on Beaches 13 Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 133
St. Johns County 15 Artificial Reefs 134
Dolphins 20 Sarasota County 135
Flagler County 23 Brown Pelican 142
Water Safety 28 Charlotte County 143
Volusia County 31 Florida's Bicycle Laws 146
Sea Turtles 39 West Coast Intracoastal Waterway 147
Saltwater Fishing Piers 40 Lee County 149
Brevard County 43 Southwest Shell Collecting 157
Indian River County 53 Collier County 159
Coastal Management Program 58 Mangrove 165
St. Lucie County 61
Florida Seafood 66
Forest Zone 68
Escambia/Santa Rosa Counties 169
Martin County 69 Okaloosa County 177
Underwater Archaeology 73
Florida 's Saltwater Laws 183
Palm Beach County 75
Endangered Species Act of 1973 81 W ay County 187
Bay County 191
Broward County 83
Dune Grasses 201
Beach Erosion and Restoration 89
Gulf County 203
Dade County 91
Save Our Coast 207
Miami Beach Beachfront Park and Promenade 101 Franklin County 209
Monroe County 103
CoralReef Parks 112 Index 215

A Note on Sources

This guide was compiled from a variety of sources. The county descriptions were
based on selected pamphlets, brochures, and documents sent to us by the 25 coastal
counties, supplemented with library materials. The selections were based on inter-
esting historical features involving the coast and key coastal features and activities
that could fit on one page. No attempt was made to provide complete historical
summaries. The maps were drawn from U.S. Geological Survey quadrangles. The
directions to each beach were taken from the maps used to compile the guide maps,
Florida Department of Transportation maps, supplemented with Department of
Natural Resource aerial photos (1" = 200') and site visit notes. The beach names,
public accesses, facilities available, and environmental descriptions were taken
from survey forms filled out by county and city park and recreation officials. Each
coastal county and the majority of the cities have published a parks and recreation
section in their comprehensive plans; these were collected and used as a further
source of information. In addition, each county and city was visited to understand
the nature of the beaches, accesses, and special coastal features. The feature ar-
ticles were based on information supplied by state agencies supplemented with li-
brary materials.
A draft copy was mailed to each county for verification of written material,
maps, and grid information for that county. Twenty-one counties responded with
recommendations; the four that did not respond indicated no changes.
Where we agreed with the corrections to the draft material, changes were made.
As we went to press, changes in beach names, access points, and acquisition of new
public beaches were taking place. Revisions will occur, updating information in the
rapidly changing beachfront areas to assist those needing information about Flor-
ida's sandy beaches.

Foreword

The beautiful sandy beaches of Florida continue to attract Americans from all fifty
states and tourists from other nations. This resource is being preserved so that fu-
ture generations can also enjoy our white sand and warm seas and generally pursue
outdoor recreation on our beaches.
In 1983 we began the acquisition of beaches for public use through the Save Our
Coast program. People should be able to have access to the beaches while we work
to preserve their fragile dunes and shoreline. This access guide should help in find-
ing the major beach areas along our extensive coastline. The University of West
Florida has produced a functional guide to assist in locating state, federal, and local
coastal parks and recreation areas.
The feature articles elaborate on many coastal-related subjects. There are inter-
esting summaries of what we have been doing to ensure that all visitors can enjoy
our sandy beaches.
I would like to convey my gratitude to the Division of Beaches and Shores,
DNR, as well as the Office of Coastal Management, DER, and the other agencies
who have participated in the preparation of Florida's Sandy Beaches, An Access
Guide.

Robert Graham, Governor

Introduction

Florida derives much of its income from tourism, which depends heavily on an un- meeting the Gulf of Mexico rather than by sand and dunes. Because this guide is
derstanding of and access to its beaches. Florida's beaches have different settings designed for sandy beach access and use, these counties are not included.
and character that influence how they are perceived and used. Some are well used, The coastal counties covered in the guide have been highlighted with selected
others less so; some are isolated, while others lie in the urban core. But all the historical episodes and interesting local features. Three maps are normally used for
beaches are designed for coastal recreation pursuits, although many are not used as each county: a county map for orientation, district maps for general routing, and
intended or are overused. inset maps for urban areas needing more detailed routing. Accompanying the dis-
This guide will assist in matching interests with beaches by showing where they trict maps is a grid denoting for each beach name the available parking and other
are, how to get there, and what to expect on arrival. It is designed to provide most transportation, facilities, and the character of the beach site. Supplementing the
of the information needed for finding and using Florida's beaches. The authors and grid are entries for each beach, giving precise directions and information, such as
publisher are not responsible for changes in beach access and operations as their hours of operation. The terms "developed" and "undeveloped" appear in some
data came from the cities and counties involved and were checked by them in the beach descriptions. Developed means that there are facilities available on the beach
spring of 1984. or close by for tourist use; undeveloped means facilities are generally lacking, even
The guide is divided into three major geographic areas-east coast, southwest though the beach may be located in a highly urbanized area. Conversely, developed
coast, and northwest coast (Panhandle). The county descriptions begin at the north- beaches are found in remote locations that have parking, showers, drinking water,
ernmost county, Nassau, and continue down to Key West, the southernmost city in toilets, picnic tables, etc,
Florida. The only access to the keys is via Dade County on the east coast. For south- Articles of general interest are also included to provide more information about
west coast visitors the guide begins at the northernmost county, Pinellas, and con- beaches in Florida. Some discuss the beaches directly, others concentrate on beach
tinues down to the Everglades. For those arriving from the west the guide begins activities. Photos and illustrations supplement the features.
with the westernmost county, Escambia, and continues to Franklin, the easternmost All of the information used to compile this guide was accurate in the spring of
Panhandle county. To the east of Franklin County and around the bend of coastline 1984. As changes are made in the kinds of facilities offered and new public beaches
to Pinellas County there are eight counties that have only limited sandy beaches, and accessways are created, this guide will be updated. In addition, storms and hur-
public access, and parking. This coastline is generally characterized by vegetation ricanes, such as the Thanksgiving storm in 1984, can change the beach contour,
access, and facilities available.

xii

How to Use the Guide

The guide is simple to use to locate a county, municipality, or specific area where A grid has been included that provides a general description of the beach facili-
there is a sandy beach. It begins its coverage in Nassau County at the Georgia ties and environments found in each county. Changes may have occurred after this
border, on the Atlantic coast, and progresses southward down the Atlantic coast to information was compiled. The authors and publisher are not responsible for these
Key West. On the southern Gulf coast, coverage begins in Pinellas County and changes. The example below illustrates how this information is displayed, and the
moves southward to the Everglades. Northwest Florida's coverage begins at the Ala- glossary on the next page defines the terms used.
bama border in Escambia County and progresses eastward along the Panhandle to
Franklin County.

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Lee County ' '

NAME 0 0 , 0
Boca Grande Accessways 101 @1 I I 1.1 SI I I I I IIs 1.1 10101
Boca Grande Beach I* I I* I IIa I I I I I 1 1 1 I .1
Lighthouse Beach Park I I I 1. 1 1 I I 1 1 * I
Cayo Costa Island Park l o I 1*1*1 I I II0 0l I
Captiva lI
r i i I I r I I I

xiii

Facilities Concession stands. Small- to medium-sized concession stands selling a limited
variety of food.
Easy access. Indicates an entrance that is easy to locate and to use. In most cases
there will be signs or markers identifying the access point as an entrance to the Handicapped facilities. The area has some facilities to accommodate the handi-
public beach area. capped, such as ramps, boardwalks, and special railings.

Parking or entrance fee. Identifies the public parking area as one requiring pay- Public transportation. A public transportation system is available that services
ment. In some areas it also means that an entrance fee must be paid for all beach that beach area,
users.
Group facilities. Larger covered structures holding more than ten persons that
Parking. Identifies the availability of parking in the vicinity of the listed beach may be used for group activities.
area.
Nature trails/fitness. Trails and fitness areas are associated with the beach area
Restrooms. Facilities provided for beach users close to the beach/ swimming area. and facilities and are usually marked with signs and suggestions for use by the
public.
Showers. Cold or hot showers provided.
Environment
Picnicking. Facilities provided for eating, such as picnic tables, benches, and in
some areas fireplaces. Atlantic/Gulf. Indicates beach fronts the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico.

Swimming. Permitted in areas marked, with suitable sandy areas and water. Bay/sound front. Indicates beach fronts a bay or sound.

Lifeguards. On duty during posted hours and within the area indicated. Usually on Sandy beach. Fine-grained sand that is easy to walk on with bare feet.
duty only during the active swinmning season.
Rocky beach. Small to large pebbles, or coral pieces.
Fishing. Areas where fishing is permitted if state and local laws are followed. Pier
or surf casting permitted where noted. Primitive beach. No facilities available; few or no homes in vicinity.

Boating facilities. Indicates established facilities for boating ramps, piers, moor- Urban. Highly developed areas with numerous motels, hotels, and restaurants ad-
ing, and docks. jacent to the beach area.

Shelters. Indicates covered structures that can be used for eating and for protection
in inclement weather.

xiv

Public Access
The right of the public to use the shoreline has its beginning in ancient civilizations is the Save Our Coast beach acquisition program. Local governments are funding
that enacted laws and codes to protect this use. Justinian (483-565 A.D.), a Roman programs to improve, increase, and post public accesses for the public's benefit.
emperor, first recorded the public trust doctrine, which said that the seashore and These accesses include not only the dry sand but crossings from public streets to the
sea were "common to all" and could not be privately owned. This understanding of dry and wet sandy beaches.
Roman law carried into laws of European nations. England's Magna Carta (1215) The Department of Natural Resources is also funding major coastal projects that
mentioned the public's right to fishing and navigation. There followed several En- require local governments to provide beach access at half-mile intervals. Govern-
glish interpretations and clarifications of this premise that gave Queen Elizabeth I ments continue to add easements across private property to the beach for the flour-
title to the tidal lands. ishing tourist business and for the use of local citizens.
The early American colonists brought with them the English common law con- The legal precedents regarding access rights that go back to pre-colonial days
cept of keeping coastal access open for all new settlers. As the original American still have effects on our beach access today. Four of the legal concepts affecting
colonies matured, control of the tidelands was assumed by the states as a public access rights are discussed briefly for further understanding of the right of access to
trust. Public trust means the people of that state have placed the legal title of the public property held in trust.
public trust land with the government to protect their rights to its use. "Implied dedication" means that in the case of a privately owned beach used by
Florida has legally separated private and public portions of the beach at the the public whose owner has not attempted to restrict the public's use, the owner is
mean high-water line (average high tide) averaged over a nineteen-year period. The implying that he is giving the land to the public. The public is accepting the land by
state's constitution says that the beaches below mean high water are held in trust for using it. Two requirements must be satisfied: the private owner's intent to dedicate
all the people. This stretch is often called the wet sand area. the beach or accessway, and the public's acknowledgment and acceptance of the
State agencies are actively attempting to open up more of the coastline (the dry dedicated use.
sand area) for public use through many continuing programs; one of the most recent "Express dedication" of a beach or accessway generally means that the public

has been given the right to use the property as access over an extended period, and the use must have been obligatory for the upland owners-the public's
future governmental actions cannot restrict that use. use not being subject to the option of each individual upland owner.
"Customary rights" regarding beaches are embedded in English common law.
Once there has been public use of a beach for a long time, that use legally estab- "Prescriptive casement" means that in the case of the public using a private area
lishes the defined area as public, if these seven points are satisfied: without eviction by the owner over a period of time, it has a right to use it, and the
owner cannot restrict the public right to use the easement.

the use must have been without interruption; Beaches are major attractions in Florida, and access will continue to receive at-
the use must be so ancient that nobody remembers otherwise; tention by both state and local governments so that residents and tourists alike can
the use must have been reasonable and in keeping with the character of share these magnificent natural resources. This access guide has been prepared to
the land; assist in locating Florida's public beaches and their access points. For continuing
the use must have been peaceable and free from dispute; enjoyment of these beaches the public should obey posted access rules and should
there must be certainty as to just what land was being used; be careful not to infringe upon the rights of nearby property owners. The authors
the use must not be repugnant or inconsistent with public policy and and publisher are not responsible for changes in access.
other laws;

xvi

Coastal State Parks
Florida's natural environment lures many to escape the confines of a routine, urban
life for the relaxation of the natural world. A mild climate, the nearness and ex-
panse of the sea, and a spectacular assortment of plant and animal life have created
a state ideal for outdoor recreation. Surprisingly, the establishment of an agency to
regulate state parks in Florida was not actively promoted until after World War II.
Until then the state was sparsely settled and relatively undeveloped, and the use of
much private land was left unquestioned by the public. With time, however, it was
realized that efforts needed to be made to preserve Florida against the overburden-
ing development that could accompany an increasing population and growth in the
state's largest industry-tourism.
The purpose of the Florida state parks system is to provide the public with natu-
ral outdoor resources that are representative examples of the "original natural Flor-
ida" seen by the first Europeans. In an effort to achieve this goal the following state
park regulations have been established by the administrative offices of the Depart-
ment of Natural Resources, Division of Recreation and Parks.r

There is an entrance fee to all parks; there is no additional charge for1
fishing, swimming, picnicking, or boating. J
Parks are open daily, opening at 8 A.m. and closing at sundown.
Intoxicants may not be consumed in the park.
Pets must be on a six-foot, hand-held leash and be well behaved at allN
times. They are not permitted in campgrounds, on swimming beaches, ' '' >tYIg
and at concessions.
All plant and animal life is protected in state parks.

Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne

xvii

State Park and Recreation Areas

Anastasia State Recreation Area Caladesi Island State Park Grayton Beach State Recreation Area
St. Johns Co. (904) 471-3033 Pinellas Co. Walton Co. (904) 231-4210
This is the "coquina" quarry site mined by the Spanish Having 607 acres of developed yet isolated land this The sculptured results of salt spray and wind can be
during the settlement of St. Augustine. The park pro- park can be reached only by boat. A ferry service oper- seen in park barrier dunes and vegetation. Situated be-
vides access to a wide, drive-on beach and lagoon ates from the pier at Honeymoon Island State Park to tween the Gulf and scenic Western Lake this park is
popular for fishing and skiing. It is reached off S.R. the north. reached off the Miracle Strip (U.S. 98) between Ft.
A1A in St. Augustine Beach. Located on the Atlantic Walton Beach and Panama City. Surf fishing, swim-
Coast migration route, the park is also noted for its di- Flagler Beach State Recreation Area ming, and camping are popular activities.
versity of bird life. Flagler Co. (904) 439-2474
Guided nature walks and camping are popular activi- Honeymoon Island State Park
Anclote Key State Park ties at this 145-acre park. It is reached off S.R. A1A in Pinellas Co.
Pinellas Co. Flagler Beach. This undeveloped state park is located on the northern
This isolated and primitive park can be reached only by tip of Honeymoon Island. Having over 10,000 feet of
private boat. Fort Clinch State Park beach with dune walkovers, it is reached by S.R. 586
Nassau Co. (904) 261-4212 west over the Dunedin Causeway.
Bahia-Honda State Recreation Area Situated on Amelia Island, 3 miles north of Fernandina
Monroe Co. (305) 872-2353 Beach on S.R. A1A, Fort Clinch has both historic and Hugh Taylor Birch State Recreation Area
Noted for tarpon fishing, this is Florida's southernmost natural appeal. Its 1,086 acres have huge sand dunes Broward Co. (305) 564-4521
state recreation area. The park also promotes swim- and pristine beaches. Although built in 1847, the fort Donated to the state in 1942, this 180-acre park was
ming and diving in both the Florida Bay and the Atlan- remains in excellent condition. Park rangers reenact intended to preserve the solitude it had in the late 1800s.
tic Ocean. history as Union garrison soldiers of 1864. A miniature scenic railroad carries visitors through the
isolated coastal hammocks and along the waterway.
Big Lagoon State Recreation Area Fort Pierce Inlet State Recreation Area Rental canoes and paddleboats are available at the
Escambia Co. (904) 492-1595 St. Lucie Co. (305) 461-1570 freshwater lagoon. Buildings are available for group
From an observation tower the expanse of over 700 This 340-acre park is located on the barrier island be- camping.
acres of coastal park and the view toward the Gulf across tween the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean. A mu-
the lagoon and barrier island can be appreciated. Nature seum at Pepper Beach interprets the local history of the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
trails, swimming, and camping are park activities. Ais Indians, the 1715 Spanish Fleet disaster, the Semi- Monroe Co. (305) 451-1202
nole Wars (1816-58), and the lost American gold This is the first underwater state park and part of the
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area payroll. largest living coral reef area in the United States. The
Dade Co. (305) 361-5811 park spans 8.5 miles into the Atlantic and 21 miles
At the south end of Key Biscayne sits Cape Florida along the shore of Key Largo. A special feature of the
Light, one of the oldest structures in South Florida. park is a nine-foot bronze statue, "Christ of the Deep,"
This area was also the historic site of a confrontation symbolizing peace for mankind, located beneath 20
with the Seminole Indians in 1836. feet of Atlantic water.

xviii

John U. Lloyd Beach State Recreation Area Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area St. Lucie Inlet State Recreation Area
Broward Co. (305) 923-2833 Indian River and Brevard Co. (305) 727-1752 Martin Co.
This 244-acre developed park is named after the at- Fantastic fishing and surfing are reasons this area is one This 808-acre park will be open in early 1985.
torney who aided its acquisition. It offers excellent of Florida's most popular recreation parks. It is located
fishing at the Port Everglades jetties and scuba diving on the north and south sides of Sebastian Inlet. Washington Oaks Gardens/"The Rocks"
at an offshore reef. Flagler Co. (904) 445-3161
St. Andrews State Recreation Area Formal landscaped gardens and a unique beach studded
Little Talbot Island State Park Bay Co. (904) 234-2522 with huge coquina boulders lie two miles south of Ma-
Duval Co. (904) 251-3231 This park is known for its crystal white beaches, tower- rineland. The beach, locally known as "The Rocks," is
An isolated oceanfront park, Little Talbot Island covers ing dunes, and clear blue-green Gulf waters. Fishing is the only east coast beach of its kind and is the home of
2,500 acres of beaches, dunes, tidal creeks, and salt allowed in the Gulf, Ship Channel, and Grand Lagoon. the endangered scrub jay.
marches. Picturesque coastal hardwood lies in the Access to this 1,063-acre state park is on S.R. 392,
northwest portion of the island. The park is about 17 three miles east of Panama City Beach. Wiggins Pass State Recreation Area
miles northeast of Jacksonville, off S.R. AlA. Collier Co. (813) 597-6196
St. George Island State Park/Dr. Julian G. Bruce The beaches around Wiggins Pass are a popular nesting
Long Key State Recreation Area Franklin Co. area for sea turtles during summer nights. Cast-netting
Monroe Co. (305) 664-4815 This 1,883-acre park is located 10 miles southeast of for mullet is a popular fishing activity in the area.
Small and isolated, this park is known for the wading Eastpoint off U.S. 98. It has 9 miles of beach access on
birds that are a big attraction during the winter months. the Gulf of Mexico, 16 miles on St. George Sound.
Four miles inland at Gap Point is a primitive camp
Perdido Key State Preserve area.
Escambia Co. (904) 492-1595
Consisting of 250 acres of white sand, sea oats and St. Joseph Peninsula State Park/T. H. Stone
rosemary-covered dunes, and pine flatwoods, Perdido Memorial
Key State Preserve is located on the barrier island be- Gulf Co. (904) 227-1327
tween the Gulf of Mexico and Old River. Activities in Almost completely surrounded by water, this state park
this undeveloped area are picnicking, swimming, fish- has 10 miles of the most scenic stretch of unspoiled
ing, and nature study. beaches and dunes on the Gulf coast. There is a 1,650-
acre wilderness preserve where hiking and primitive
camping is allowed.

xix

State Park Camping

Camping is a popular outdoor recreational pursuit in Florida. In a sophisticated State Recreational Areas (S.R.A.) and
camping vehicle or in a sleeping bag under the stars, the traveler can enjoy an ex- State Parks (S.P.)
tended outdoor experience or a convenient overnight stop.
The majority of coastal state parks that offer the camping experience have spe- Anastasia S.R.A. (904) 471-3033
cific camping sites situated near such developed facilities as electricity, water, Bahia-Honda S.R.A. (305) 872-2353
bathhouse, tables, grills, and a park store. All these campsites are available year- Flagler Beach S.R.A. (904) 439-2474
round. Only half of all campsites may be reserved; the remaining half are available Fort Clinch S.P. (904) 261-4212
on a first-come, first-served basis. Calls for reservations must be made during park John Pennekamp Coral Reef S.P. (305) 451-1202
hours. Collect calls and mail requests will not be accepted. Little Talbot Island S.P. (904) 251-3231
Reservations will not be accepted more than 60 days in advance of check-in Long Key S.R.A. (305) 664-4815
St. Andrews S.R.A. (904) 234-2522
date.
Camping period may not exceed 14 days. Reservations will not be held after 5 Sebastian Inlet S.R.A. (305) 727-1752
P.M., unless officials are notified by phone of a later arrival. Check-out time is 2 P.M.
Camping fees are $6 per night per campsite at interior state parks. In coastal Summer Season (June I-Labor Day)
parks, $7 per night per campsite is charged; in the Florida Keys, the cost is $8 per
night per campsite. Senior citizen rates are $3. Big Lagoon S.R.A. (904) 492-1595
Four persons are allowed per campsite with an additional $1 per person or car; Grayton Beach S.R.A. (904) 231-4210
maximum of 8 campers and/or 2 cars per site. An additional $2 per night per camp- St. Joseph Peninsula/T. H. Stone Memorial S.P. (904) 227-1327
site is charged if electricity is used.
Two coastal state parks have the vast expanse of open country necessary for the

An annual family camping permit is available to Florida residents for $100 per isolation that makes primitive/backpack camping desirable to many enthusiasts:
year. It does not include the use of electricity, museum fees, concessions, or tours.
Backpackers are required to register with the park office where they can also St. George Island S.P./Dr. Julian G. Bruce, Eastpoint, Franklin Co.
obtain hiking information. The camping fee is $1 per person per night; maximum of (904) 670-2111
12 persons per site. Camping is allowed only within designated areas. St. Joseph Peninsula S.P./T. H. Stone Memorial, Port St. Joe, Gulf Co.
(904) 227-1327

National Beach Areas
The National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, has under its supervi-
sion in Florida six coastal areas that are readily accessible to the public. These in-
clude parks, seashores, monuments, and a memorial that are very distinctive and
can be readily enjoyed by most tourists.

Canaveral National Seashore Gulf Islands National Seashore

The Canaveral National Seashore occupies parts of two counties, Volusia and Bre- One of the best known National Park Service beaches is the Gulf Islands National
yard, and is a neighbor to the John F. Kennedy Space Center. It has 26 miles of Seashore complex with beaches located in Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa
sandy beach separated into three areas: Playalinda, 5 miles; Apollo, 5 miles; and counties. This entire area is characterized by its sugar-white sand, dunes covered
Klondike, 16 miles. This region is overlapped by the Merritt Island National Wild- with sea oats, and the conservation measures that have been taken by the Park Ser-
life Refuge. Playalinda is the primary beach area that has some facilities and ser- vice. Perdido Key has 14.2 miles of beach with unrestricted access and 250 parking
vices for beach users. There is a snack bar, and picnicking is permitted on the spaces. Fort Pickens has 17 miles of beach and a parking area for 600 vehicles. On
beach. Drinking water is available at the headquarters building, but there are no Santa Rosa Island there are 18 miles of beach with dunes and vegetation that extend
beach showers. A specific area on Playalinda Beach has lifeguards during summer to the bay. There are numerous picnic facilities, freshwater showers, restrooms, and
and weekends in the spring and fall. The beach area and road are often closed dur- open shelters. Lifeguards are on duty in the marked areas during the months of
ing space launches. Playalinda has 750 parking spaces. At the north end of the Na- active summer use. There is no entrance fee. Further to the east in Fort Walton
tional Seashore, Apollo Beach has 175 parking spaces and dune crossovers. The Beach there is a small beach and hobie cat launching area on Choctawhatchee Bay.
area between Apollo and Playalinda is about 16 miles of beach where there are no The area is approximately 220 feet along the shore with room to park 50 vehicles.
facilities and few people. For additional information contact Superintendent, Ca- There are limited facilities and no lifeguards. An entrance fee is charged only at the
naveral National Seashore, P.O. Box 2583, Titusville, FL 32780, (305) 867-4675. Fort Pickens area. For information contact Superintendent, Gulf Islands National
Seashore, P.O. Box 100, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561, (904) 932-5302.
DeSoto National Memorial
Fort Matanzas National Monument
On the southwest coast of Florida in Manatee County is DeSoto National Memo-
rial, commemorating Hernando de Soto's landing in Florida in May 1539. How the Interesting areas in the east coast county of St. Johns are the Fort Matanzas National
sixteenth-century Spaniards lived-their weapons, food, and dress-is demon- Monument and the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a massive fort dat-
strated from December through April. The DeSoto Memorial is located on the ing back to 1672 located in St. Augustine. Close by there is beach access for cars.
Manatee River 5 miles west of Bradenton. For additional information contact Su- Information regarding the forts and surroundings can be obtained from Superin-
perintendent, DeSoto National Memorial, 75th Street, NW, Bradenton, FL 33505, tendent, Fort Matanzas National Monument, 1 Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL
(813) 792-0458. 32084, (904) 829-6506.

xxi

Biscayne National Park Everglades National Park

Biscayne National Park, located in the southern portion of Biscayne Bay in Dade Everglades National Park, on the southern tip of Florida, contains about 1,400,533
County, consists of 175,000 acres of water, reefs, and barrier islands. Within this acres of land and water that also include part of the Ten Thousand Islands, where
Park Service jurisdiction are three locations that provide information, guidance, the average elevation is 5 feet or less above sea level. During the 1930s concern for
and rules. Activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, fishing, and wildlife the preservation of the Everglades finally led to the formation of Everglades Na-
viewing have Park Service guidelines to be followed. Nine miles east of Homestead, tional Park in 1947.
on the mainland, is the Park Service headquarters at Convoy Point. Eight miles to The earliest inhabitants of the Everglades were the pre-Columbian Calusa In-
the east, on the barrier island, is Elliot Key Harbor with a marina and campground. dians. This is also the area where those remaining members of the Seminole Indian
University Dock is approximately two miles to the north. The Elliot Key Park tribes retreated as the Europeans settled. Originally known as the "River of Glades,"
Ranger headquarters is at Elliot Key Harbor, and there is a ranger station on Adams the name was changed to "Everglades" in 1823. While there is only wilderness
Key, at the southern end of Elliot Key. The Biscayne National Park is famous for its within the park, the Everglades represents a unique tropical ecosystem supporting a
living corals, tropical fish, shipwrecks, birds, and fascinating islands and shoals. wide variety of plants and animals. It is an important coastal area that has many
For additional information contact Superintendent, Biscayne National Park, P.O. island beaches accessible only by boat. Activities include fishing, picnicking,
Box 1369, Homestead, FL 33030, (305) 247-2044. swimming, boating, shelling, and camping. No lifeguards are available. Contact
Superintendent, Everglades National Park, P.O. Box 279, Homestead, FL 33030,
(305) 247-6211.

xxii

EAST COAST

Historic Fernandina

Nassau County
Nassau County lies in the northeastern corner of the state. The St. Marys River is ~ Y ~ i �
its northern boundary with Georgia; the Nassau River is part of the southern border
of Duval County. It is assumed that Bahamian immigrants, who came to this area
during the British occupation, named the Nassau River after the principal town of
the Bahamas; Nassau Sound and the south county town of Nassauville were also
named during that period. When the county was established in 1824 the name fol-
lowed local tradition.
Between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean lies Amelia Island.
The first recorded visitor to the island was the French admiral and explorer Jean
Ribault. He described the island as a land of great riches with wondrous harbors,
fine soil, and a good climate. When he arrived in May 1562, the island was popu-F
lated with Timucuan Indians. Ribault named the island "Isle de Mai" (Island of
May) and claimed it as French territory, initiating a turbulent history of occupation , ~ 1~
and conquest. Spanish explorer Pedro Mendndez de Avilds arrived three years later
to protest the French claim. The island was captured and renamed after the Santa AIA
Maria Mission. In 1702 the British destroyed the mission and overthrew Spanish
Fort Fernando. The island was eventually claimed for England in 1735 by General 0
James Oglethorpe and later renamed in honor of Princess Amelia, sister of King
George II of England.
On July 10, 1821, Florida was ceded to the United States after many years of S29
battling among England, Spain, France, and the United States. Three years later '~O
Nassau County was created, and Fernandina Beach was chosen as the county seat.
Fort Clinch was built in 1847 to protect the harbor. Its architecture is outstandingt
and exists in an excellent state of preservation. It became the first fort held by the
Confederacy during the Civil War; however, it was evacuated in March 1862 when it
was learned that a federal fleet was sailing to Fernandina. Fort Clinch is one of the
finest military-nature seaside parks in Florida. It covers 1,086 acres on S.R. AlA,
three miles north of Fernandina Beach, and overlooks Cumberland Island, a Na-
tional Seashore Park in Georgia. The fort is operated under a living history pro-
gram: park rangers, dressed in Union private uniforms, reenact the daily activities
of the garrison soldiers of 1864 the first weekend of every month.
The City of Fernandina Beach has a 30-block historic district, Centre St. Ferdi-
nand, facing the Amelia River. Victorian mansions and gingerbread residences dat-
ing from the I1850s, when Florida's first cross-state railroad ran from Fernandina to
Cedar Key, are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. At the west end of
Ash Street sits a renovated railway station serving as the Chamber of Commerce
and the Marine Welcome Station for those traveling the Atlantic Intracoastal Water-
way. The picturesque shrimp fleet marina is the birthplace of the modern shrimping
industry.

S.Marys Entrance

~~e~ia ~Fernandina Beach

~A'~~ City Beach

* melia Island Beach Amelia Island

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Nassau County &
//////////Y/Y'' ~ 0 0' � ~
NAME <0~0 4 $,0o 0 o o ,o ,$
Ft. Clinch State Park I-.-I-.-Il'l..1* *1*�l �l0l @I.I 101.1 1 |
Ferna' ndina Beach *.1 1911 1|1|1l*'11 1|1|1 1i1-1 I IJ 101 I 1�1
Amelia City Beach ,*1"1101ol I 11* I I I 11 1 |1 I
American Beach I101910o|e ISIl jI 11 I I Ij 1�1 1 I I I
Amella Island Beach |1-01*I1 ' *101l*I I 1*1 I I I I 111 1*1 I I I
, i i , , i , , , I i I I , I

Ft. Clinch State Park covers over 1,000 acres off American Beach has 150 feet of developed beach,
S.R. AlA on the north end of Amelia Island. Access is with lifeguard areas. Access is marked on the Buc-
at the end of North 14th St., 3 miles north of Fernan- caneer Trail (S.R. 105/AlA), 1.5 miles south of Ame-
dina Beach. This is a developed recreation and historic lia City. Fishing pier. Parking and driving permitted on
area. No alcohol allowed. Fishing pier and Camping- the beach with annual permit. Overnight camping. Ac- , ,
by-the-Sea. cess points at Julia St., Lewis St., and Burney Ave. 7'' '<

Fernandina Beach is a developed beach with life- Amelia Island Beach lies south of Ame rica n Beach i;?/..: !
guards and 325 feet of beach frontage. Access is 3 on S.R. AIA and includes Amelia Island Plantation
miles north of Amelia City on S.R. AlA at Atlantic Resort. This developed beach has 23,500 feet of ocean
Ave. and sound beaches with dune walkovers. Overnight ;
camping. Boat ramp to Nassau Sound.
Amelia City Beach has 10,000 feet of beach with
lifeguards and is situated north of American Beach on
S.R. AlA. Parking and driving on the beach with an-
nual permit. Access ramps to beach at Peters Point,
Belle Glade, Scott, and Sadler roads.

Fernandina Beach

Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway

In 1881 the Florida East Coast Canal Company began construction of a channel 5
feet deep and 50 feet wide, extending from Jacksonville to Miami. Its purpose was
to aid transportation along the east coast, which had suffered the ravages of ocean
storms and currents. The construction of the Intracoastal Waterway connecting a
chain of rivers, lakes, and lagoons was completed in 1912. With time came the
desire to link the Florida Channel with the Intracoastal Waterway extending from
Trenton, New Jersey, to the St. Marys River on the Georgia-Florida border, as well
as increasing the depth to 12 feet and width to 125 feet. Sponsored by the Florida
Inland Navigation District (FIND) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a fed-
eral project by the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1927, the project has been completed
to the authorized depth and width from Jacksonville to Fort Pierce. From that point
south to Miami, the project has been completed to a depth of 10 feet and to the full
project width of 125 feet. These dimensions will remain until an economic feasi-
bility study shows whether the benefits of the work outweigh the costs.
The Intracoastal Waterway is under the jurisdiction of both the U.S. Coast Guard
and the Florida Marine Patrol. Those cruising the channel should refer to the latest
official navigational charts. The charts show the location and characteristics of nav-
igational aids and indicate water depths, bridge and overhead cable clearances, dis-
tance markers, notes of caution, and tide information. They may be obtained from
marine supply houses or the Distribution Division C44, National Ocean Survey,
Riverdale, MD 20840, (301) 436-6990. Boating on the Intracoastal Waterway
Most of the waterway from Fernandina Beach to Miami is protected from winds
and rough water by barrier islands, with the exception of the open waters of Mos-
quito Lagoon, Indian River, and Lake Worth. Currents in the Atlantic Intracoastal
Waterway in Florida are generally not significant except near inlets and through
bridges near inlets during maximum current flows on flood and ebb tides.
All fixed bridges crossing the channel have a clearance of 65 feet above mean
high water and a horizontal clearance of 90 feet between fenders, except the Julia
Tuttle Causeway in Miami, which has a 56-foot clearance, and the Venetian Cause-
way, which has a horizontal clearance of 60 feet between fenders.
Between Fernandina and Miami there are numerous drawbridges operating under
regulations established by the U.S. Coast Guard. Information on the bridges-loca-
tion in statute miles south of Fernandina, vertical clearance in closed position at
mean high water, horizontal clearance between fenders, and special operating regu-
lations-is available from the Jacksonville District, U.S. Army Corps of Engi-
neers, P.O. Box 4970, Jacksonville, FL 32201. A summary of the data is also avail-
able from the Florida Inland Navigation District, 2725 Avenue E, Riviera Beach,
FL 33404, (305) 848-1217.
Note: The signal to request opening of a drawbridge is one prolonged blast fol-
lowed by one short blast.

Duval County
Duval County, named for William P. Duval, first territorial governor of Florida, is
the northeastern gateway for air, rail, water, and highway traffic entering Florida. O
Jacksonville, the state's largest city area and the county seat, has one of the largest
ports in Florida. It is located on the beautiful, broad St. Johns River, 20 miles fromIA
where the river empties into the Atlantic Ocean. The River of Currents and the
River of Lakes are early Spanish and Indian names for the St. Johns River that de-
scribe the spectacular way its currents meet the ocean surf. The source of the St.
Johns River had been a matter of speculation since Mendrndez' time. In the I 870s it
was said that the St. Johns went "all the way to Hell and Blazes!" (Lending cre--
dence to this claim was the existence of a Lake Helen Blazes west of Melbourne.)
Recently, however, the U.S. Geological Survey has identified Blue Cypress Lake as
the river's source.
Over four and one-half centuries ago Ponce de Leon discovered this area, claim-
ing the land for Spain and establishing the Catholic religion, Spanish Florida soon
attracted the interest of France. In 1562, Jean Ribault, a French Huguenot, landed
in Indian wilderness near the mouth of the St. Johns River, where he held Florida's
first Protestant service. France desired to establish a base from which French ships
could raid Spanish vessels, to establish a French point of entry and seat of com-
merce, and to found a French colony where Protestants could worship freely and
safely. The sod and timber construction of Fort Caroline on Alimacani (present-day
Fort George Island) in 1564 was a serious attempt by the French to claim a colonial
empire in this part of the New World. The attempt was short lived as the French
were soon evicted by the Spanish in a manner that gave the name Matanzas, SpanishAIA
for "slaughters," to the area.
Two hundred fifty years later Fort George Island came into the possession of
Zephaniah Kingsley, slaver, planter, and great-uncle to the painter James McNeil
Whistler. Kingsley Plantation became a training center for slaves who were then
sold by this notorious trafficker. The Kingsley slave empire endured the depreda-
tions of both white and red outlaws, assaults of pirates, corrupt practices of Spanish JU
officials, and annoying interference from the U.S. Army. The Kingsley Plantation ClAY
House has been restored to illustrate its unusual story.
Visitors to the 16 miles of Duval County coast, almost half of which is available
for public access, enjoy hard-packed sandy shores from Nassau Sound south to
Ponte Vedra Beach. Red snapper, amberjack, Spanish mackerel, and flounder make
the area popular with deep-sea fishermen.
Today, Jacksonville continues its role as a leading southeastern commercial, fi- Twenty-six miles north of Jacksonville at the mouth of the St. Johns River lies
nancial, and industrial center. Wholesaling, insurance, banking, shipbuilding, and Mayport, a picturesque little fishing village. The name Mayport is a reminder that
forest products are among the city's principal economic activities. the French called the St. Johns "Rivi~re de Mai" (May River).

0 1 2 Miles

;w~ Little Talbot Island
State Park

I ~~~~~~ I ~~~~Mayport Village, south of the St. Johns River mouth below Huguenot
% ~~~~~~~~Memorial Park

GeteInlet

Huguenot
Mmorial Park

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Duval County ~ ~/�~ ,,"' *~'?~'~ ;'; "�. ~ 0'

NAME
NORTHERN DISTRI CT
Little Talbot Island State Park * I � * � - X � X X * * -
Huguenot MemorialI P.ark * |0 * * *
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Hannah Park �� - - - 0 4 0 0 * 0 0 * � *
Atlantic Beach *| * * *
Neptunea Beach * * � - � 0 *I 0
Jacksonville Beach * *� 0 * �� - * - � * * *I

Little Talbot Island State Park lies between Fort Atlantic Beach is one of the most urbanized of the Jacksonville Beach is accessible from Atlantic Blvd.
George River and the Atlantic Ocean. There are two Jacksonville beaches, accessible from 12 street-end (S.R. 10), Beach Blvd. (U.S. 90), or J. Turner Butler
access points, one and two miles north of Fort George points off Beach Ave. Approximately 480 feet of this Expressway. The beach has 2,400 feet of frontage
Island on S.R. A1A/S.R. 105. This developed state strand is undeveloped oceanfront. reached by 64 street ends off N. First St. No alcohol
park has 5.5 miles of beach. No alcohol allowed. allowed. Fishing pier at beach.
Neptune Beach lies south of Atlantic Beach. This un-
Hu guenot Memorial Park has two miles of beach developed, urban beach has 1,250 feet of oceanfront. There is a city-owned public marina on the Intra-
with boating facilities. The park lies at the southern tip Twenty-three street ends off N. First St. provide access coastal Waterway on 2d Ave. N. off Beach Blvd. under
of Fort George Island and has marked access off S.R. to this beach. the McCormick Bridge.
A1A.

Hannah Park, formerly Seminole Beach, is located
on S.R. A1A, about 3 miles nort h of Atlantic Blvd.
(S.R. 10) and jus t sou th of Mayport Naval Station. One
of the largest oceanfront pa rks in Florida, it is a devel-
oped beach (1.6 miles) with lifeguards. No alcohol
allowed.

2 Miles

Hannah Park

i INSET- 1

Jacksonville Beach

INSET - 2

INSET - 3

Southern district

'115th Stl .~ Atlantic Blvd
14th St.
~J1?th St.Lemon St.
136th St. Orange St,
12th St. Pherry iSt.

10 | / m oake St.
11th St. alnut St.
f Olth St. Myrtle St.
'1 M'1.,!Cedarlt St.

lotlniBeh (ne 1)ak S t.
Ne Pine St.
6th St. Bay St.

5th St.
hMgoi St.
'~~'4th St. 'I : Florida Blvd.
3rd St. South St.
2nd St. les St.
1st St. Davis St.
Ahern St. I Dora St.
Atlantic Blvd. ! '!~ Oleander St.
Myra St.
i '"~ Ma~~rgaret St.
Atlantic Beach (inset 1) [{Hopkins St.
~-~-T---V~---A Hpkins St.
agate Ave.

Neptune Beach (inset 2)

J 0 0.5 Mile

Jacksonville Beach (inset 3)

Little Talbot Island

Drive-on Beaches
Few visitors leave Florida without experiencing a drive to the beach. After all, this Regardless of the allure, drive-on beaches do have potential hazards to both the
activity is a primary attraction in a state having more extensive ocean beaches than environment and those seeking the pleasures of the beach. The intertidal ocean
any other state. Aided by a map and perhaps a vague sense of direction, the deter- beach appears to be resistant to long-term vehicle use, but this is primarily due to
mined visitor will follow signs with traffic instructions. After locating the beach the continuous change from sand transport during tidal changes. As long as vehicle
access road, a visitor may find the road continues to the water's edge. traffic does not interfere with the more stable areas of the beach, specifically the
A few counties in Florida have drive-on beaches. Drive-on beaches are legally dunes, damage from vehicle stress appears minimal. Environmental studies have
considered county roads and, therefore, are subject to the traffic regulations of the yet to show the effects on intertidal beach creatures such as the mole crab, coquina
county. A beach must be smooth, wide, and hard to be suitable for driving. These clam or periwinkle, ghost crabs, and mole shrimps. However, sea turtles, and par-
qualities are found in the northern part of the east coast, primarily Amelia Island, ticularly their nesting areas, are seriously endangered by the stress of vehicles. For-
Ponte Vedra Beach, St. Augustine Beach, Ormond Beach, and Daytona Beach. tunately, most known nesting areas are protected against this hazard. As for the
These smooth beaches have a fine quartz sand with few pebbles or shell fragments. beachgoer, vehicles present the same hazards as anywhere else that cars and people
The strip of hard-packed sand is as wide as the difference between high and low encounter one another. While enjoying the pleasures of the county beach "road"
tide. The fine sand and large tidal fluctuations also form a slight beach slope which one must not forget the dangers.
eases driving parallel to the shore. From 1903 to 1935 the wide strip of smooth, Most state beaches are unsuitable for driving, and the unsuspecting visitor may
hard-packed wet sand on Daytona Beach was used for auto racing, and Sir Malcolm end up paying a high towing charge to have his auto pulled from the soft sands.
Campbell set a land speed record of 276.82 mph there. Stock-car racing followed There may also be a fine to pay. Check carefully to see if beach driving is permitted
until 1959, when the speedway was built. and possible. Each county that has drive-on beaches has humorous stories of cars
The desirability of drive-on beaches appeals to the many who have had to park trapped by soft, dry sand or by incoming tide.
and walk far to enjoy the freedom of surf, sand, and sun, each step a reminder of an A final warning note: salt spray and sand can corrode and damage a car.
exhausting return trip to come. Drive-on beaches offer the convenience of almost
unlimited access to the beach and the liberty of claiming a private domain by
merely parking your car. It becomes an oasis in the sand, nearby and secure, offer-
ing a quick escape from overexposure and exhaustion.

4 & <a-a K>
-a -a
K> -a v-a-a >&-a '-> A,
a-a-a -a--a-a -a -a-a-a-au
2 -a> -ar-a

<a> <a%, Va
K. , <a. a

<aa'� at- at aaya a-;' at"-a <a aaK>a' aW

-aata a-. - aaa

St. Johns County

On his famous search in 1513 for the mythical source of youth-restoring waters,
Don Juan Ponce de Leon landed on the shores of St. Johns County. As his discovery \\.Z~ 05 110 Miles
coincided with "the Feast of Flowers," he named St. Augustine "Pascua Florida." q jit'
Fort Matanzas National Monument lies 14 miles south of St. Augustine on Rat-j *
tiesnake Island. In 1565 three hundred French Huguenots were put to death at Fort ,edraSac
Matanzas (Spanish for "slaughters"). Ferries cross Matanzas Inlet to Rattlesnake
Island daily in the summer and on weekends the rest of the year. Just across the 1'~ Al
Matanzas River lies a strip of land, approximately 12 miles long and less than one
mile wide, known as Anastasia Island. Part of the land fronts the Atlantic Ocean
where fishing and swimming are excellent; on the soundside is Salt Run Lagoon,
abundant with many species of game fish. The land between is a vast, dense land- I
scape sculpted by wind and blowing sand. It was through these waters in 1565 that
Spanish explorer Pedro Mendndez de Avilds waded ashore to become the founder of l3
Florida's first permanent colony, St. Augustine,
Throughout the centuries, St. Augustine has been continuously settled, making
it the nation's oldest city. Each year in June, St. Augustine is the host city for the F9
performance of Paul Green's Cross and Sword, the official state play depicting the
battle for the settlement of Florida.
The central plaza and street plan remain almost as they were laid out in 1598 by
the Spanish: 31 houses built in colonial times still stand on those streets. The city
gates constructed of impressive coquina pylons that guarded the city in 1738 now V
lead visitors into the restored colonial district. It was on July 10, 1821, that the1B
Spanish flag was last lowered at the Castillo de San Marcos to be replaced by the tn e
Stars and Stripes, ending 300 years of Spanish rule of Florida.
Each year hundreds of thousands of tourists visit St. Johns County, both for its ;cg14
fascinating history and for the pleasures of its beaches.

1 5

Ponte Vedra Beach

S203

Mickler Landing

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

~~~~~~~Nrhr ditrc

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

St. Johns County > * 0

NAME 0
NORTHERN DISTRICT
Ponte Verda Beach 0 0 0 * 0 0
CENTRAL DISTRICT
North Beach * * * 0 �
South Ponte Verda 0 0 0 0 * * *
saIna's Beach *0 0 0 0 0 *
Vilano Beach * * o * -* * *
Anastasia State Recreation Area * * � � - - - * - * - o a
St. Augustine Beach * * ** * * * *
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Unnamed Beach * * * * * *
Butler Beach/Frank B. Butler Park 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 * � * - -
Crescent Beach * * O e so 0 0 * * �
Matenzae Beach * * * * *

Ponte Vedra Beach extends from the Duval County Anastasia State Recreation Area fronts 3.5 miles of Butler Beach/Frank B. Butler Park has 0.75 mile
line a-distance of 6.5 miles south. Walkover access is at shoreline from the St. Augustine Inlet southward to the of undeveloped, urban beach off S.R. A1A from Ma-
Mickler Landing on S.R. AIA; there is also parking city limits. Access to the beach is 2,000 feet north of tanzas Ave. south to Frank B. Butler Park and a county-
and access along the shoulder of S.R. A1A. Pope Rd. No alcohol is allowed. maintained park fronting the Intracoastal Waterway.
Five streets provide access to the ocean beach; on the
South Ponte Vedra Beach, an undeveloped urban St. Augustine Beach extends from Pope Rd. south to west side of S.R. A1A there is marked access to the
beach area off S.R. A1A, has several access easements. St. Augustine-by-the-Sea. There is public access at 32 park and boat ramp.
locations. From St. Augustine Beach south to Matan-
Usina's Beach has 2 miles of shoreline accessible via zas Inlet, the beach has been designated a county road Crescent Beach has 5 miles of shoreline from Frank
one walkway. open to traffic and parking. There is a fishing pier. B. Butler Park to Ft. Matanzas National Monument.
There are 5 street-end access points off S.R. A1A, as
Vilano Beach extends north of St. Augustine Inlet 2 Unnamed Beach lies between St. Augustine Beach well as a runway to the beach where S.R. 206 and S.R.
miles. One street end off S.R. A1A provides access for and Butler Beach. About 2 miles of undeveloped front- AlA meet.
cars. Boating facilities are on the mainland, just left age is accessible via street ends off S.R. AIA.
before crossing Vilano Beach Bridge. Matanzas Beach, 3 miles in length, lies within the
boundary of the Ft. Matanzas National Monument. No
alcohol is allowed.

0 1 2 3 Miles

o So~~uth Ponte Vedra Beach

North Beach ~ufieAe

0 Usine's Beech ~~~~~~~Palmetto Ave.

~~~~~~~.~~~~a Anasasi

Ar ~ ~ ~ ~~Vln eaan St

Central district Vilanoan Beach(ist1

F1 A Street Ramp

85s o,5 iSt. Augustine Beach

Ocean Trace Rd. Ramp
i~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dondanville Rd. Ramp

N':'::'i::� :Unnamed Beach

~~Mantanzas Ave. Ramp

= rank B. Butler
~~~ :ld~~~~~~~~~ ~Beach Park

~Crescent Beach Ramp

National Monument

.1 0 FrtMatanzas Ramp
--~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-,

b~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

":~~' Matanzas Inet
S:

St. Augustine Beach Lighthouse 19
Southern district

Dolphins

Dolphins have interested humans throughout recorded history. Once commercially Dolphins are social animals usually found in schools. Mating is preceded by a
fished for food and oil, they are now protected by law in the United States. Even the courtship ritual of elaborate movements and swimming side-by-side with flippers
capture, handling, and care of dolphins for entertainment is regulated. touching. Dolphins conceive internally and have a year-long pregnancy. A single
The name "dolphin" has been given to both a fin fish and a mammal. Among the "pup," weighing 30 pounds and reaching three and a half feet in length, is born tail
many species of mammals, the bottle-nosed dolphin, Tursiops truncatus, is com- first. Newborns are fed milk for six months but feed independently on fish within a
monly spotted in the shallow coastal waters of Florida. They have streamlined year. Young dolphins do not leave the mother's side during their first 18 months.
bodies sometimes reaching 8 feet in length. Gray on top with a back-curved dorsal Reaching maturity at 12 to 14 years, dolphins live about 25 years.
fin, and pale on the underside, dolphins appear evenly colored in water. A powerful The dolphin brain is as large and complex as a human's. Their vision is equally
tail formed by two outward-pointing horizontal flukes is used for propulsion. Side good both in or above water. Researchers are trying to communicate with dolphins
flippers or paddles are steering mechanisms. through the use of specially adapted computers that would allow dolphins to recog-
Like all mammals, dolphins breathe air. They regularly surface from the water to nize words through sonar echoes. Although dolphins have "pinhole" ears, sounds
exchange air through a single blowhole on the top of their heads. Characteristic are detected by sensory perceptors located in the lower jaw. They emit clicking
traits are protruding snouts, puffy-looking foreheads, and extended lower jaws. noises that "bounce" off objects. This natural sonar is so refined they can detect a
Their strong jaws are equipped with 88 conical, pointed teeth well adapted for cap- pebble in murky water. The military is training dolphins to protect harbors from
turing fish. enemy penetration.
Friendly animals, dolphins often assist fishers by encircling schools of fish, Dolphins seem to have the human quality of compassion. Countless sea stories
making easy capture possible. Boaters and swimmers report of playing with dol- tell of dolphins rescuing swimmers, fending off sharks, and dislodging or guiding
phins in the surf. Playful antics taught by signals and rewards are well known. As if boats. A New Zealand dolphin in the years between 1888 and 1912 guided motor-
to reflect its gregarious disposition, the dolphin has a perpetual smile on its face and boats through the rocky channels of the Pelorus Sound and French Pass.
"speech" that mimics human laughter. The dolphin's disposition is endearing; few animals are as loyal or gentle. With a
Porpoises, easily confused with dolphins, are also toothed whales. They are, blow from its snout, a dolphin could easily kill a person, yet they do not attack
however, heavier bodied and do not exhibit such playful behavior. The porpoise unless provoked.
lacks a well-defined snout and has an even jawline.

:X A~~~ ~N ~ ~~ I ~ ~ ~ Y~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Flagler Beach

Flagler County
French Huguenots and Spanish conquistadors exploring the cast part of Florida in *,a~>a c
search of religious freedom and gold crossed what is now known as Flagler County.
The county was named for Henry Morrison Flagler a northern businessman and
associate .of John D. Rockefeller, who opened up the east coast of Florida by build- S I
ing railroads and motels, operating steamships, and encouraging land development.
Brought up in poverty, Flagler was considered a shrewd and ruthless businessman,
However, at the age of 55, when he assumed responsibility for the development of7
Florida, his attitude changed toward benevolence and accountability in this ventureWO
of creating Florida's first resort area. 1
Just south of the northern county line is Marineland of Florida, one of the first
sea research attractions pioneering in dolphin training. Originally an underwater
motion picture studio, Marineland has evolved into a unique resort community. It is
a first-rate oceanfront resort attraction. In addition to its seclusion and beautiful
landscaping, Marineland maintains the University of Florida Graduate School of
Marine Biology,
Washington Oaks State Park and its unique oceanfront preserve, "The Rocks," is
located just south of Marineland off S.R. AlA. This land was part of Belle Vista
Plantation during the Second Seminole War (1835-42). The gardens are cultivated
in a lush coastal swale shaded by towering live oaks and magnolias. Along the
beachfront, ocean waves have washed away the sand, exposing a picturesque co-
quina rock beach sculpted by the sea; it attracts many species of shorebirds and
captures starfish and crabs in tidal pools.
Flagler Beach State Recreation Area extends across the barrier island 3 miles
south of Flagler Beach. The beach, hard-packed and wide at low tide, is a favorite
feeding area for many shorebirds. During the summer the area above the high tide
line is used for nesting by sea turtles and the rare Florida scrub jay.
Fifteen miles north of Daytona Beach in a dense jungle hardwood grove stand the
coquina ruins of Bulow Plantation. In the 1820s this magnificent frontier plantation
was one of the most productive and prosperous in East Florida. It consisted of a
stone sugar works, sawmill, blacksmith shop, slave quarters, and grand mansion.
All were destroyed by the Indians in 1837 during the Second Seminole War. Today
the ruins stand as an open-air museum, capturing the plantation aura of the past,
Located on the upper east coast of Florida, Flagler County is the third fastest
growing county in the state. Those who love the water and the freedom of open
spaces will enjoy its long stretches of beach sand and the unhurried, sun-filled out-
door life.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~I.
Marineland Acres

O ~ Washington Oaks
State Park
o il 'The Rocks

"The Rocks"

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

NORTHERN DISTRICT [l{ r i 4i i |i 0 ill {l
Marineland Acres I -| -| | I . -
Waahington Oaks/'The Rocks' l*l'lel** | |el |'1 l'I lel'l I'l'l l'I | |
SOUTHERN DISTRICT I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
Flagle lagler County Mu p Beach 1 110101 10 11 111 I I I I '1 01 I '
Flagler Beach State Recreation Area Il0l'l' l'll' lol l l 1 o11 ' 1 I I

Washington Oaks State Park/"The Rocks" ex-

covering 340 acres. Access to this undeveloped area
Cwith 2,2400 feet o oca fontg ogf cquina rock out-

cropping is marked on S.R. A1A, about 2 miles south '0
of Marlneland. Acre I I I I I

Flagler Beach Municipal Beach has 12 acres of de- I I 1 1I .

Flagler Beach State Recreation Area I.I.IlI.II.I� .I.extendsI 11 1.1.1 I*1 I-I
Marineland Acres lies 0.5land 3 mile south of St. JohnsCity of

Flagler Beach. Access to this undeveloped coquina beach.

shell-sand beachropping is marked on S.R . A1 A.

~~~~~~~~~~Flagler Beach Municipal Beach has 12 acres of de-

0 1 2 3 Miles

liE Ee aunicipal Beach

INSET - 1

Flagler Beach

Southern district

~~~~~~~~~~~~MIN I M III111I I11 i1]I II ISfA.
d' A ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~0
- A - ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~o -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~OV

(S~~~~~~~~~~~~~(
(p~~~~~~~~~~( tp 91 (

I I ~~~~~~~Miles

Flagler Beach (inset 1)

Water Safety

Water-based recreation, such as boating and swimming, can involve certain risks. Stingrays can be found in seagrass beds or partially buried in open, sandy areas,
Taking precautions can minimize risks and ensure that a visit to the coast is a pleas- often in shallow water. They have a venomous spine at the base of the tail; if stepped
ant experience. on, the ray responds instinctively by lashing its tail. Sometimes a spine breaks off in
a wound, requiring medical attention to remove it. If toxin is released, weakness
Swimming Tips and nausea may result. Less severe wounds should be disinfected. The ray's spine is
strictly defensive. Avoid handling them and shuffle your feet when wading in shal-
Swimmers should select swimming sites carefully. Do not swim in areas designated low water.
for fishing or surfing. When possible, swim in supervised, protected areas. The Crabs have powerful claws that can pinch or puncture skin. They are found in a
American Red Cross offers guidelines for safe swimming: variety of habitats ranging from seagrass beds to hard bottoms.
Sharks and other large fish can attack swimmers. It is best to avoid these fish by
never swim alone; swimming close to shore in protected areas. Heed all shark warnings by the life-
instruct nonswimmers to use personal flotation devices; guards on duty.
don't depend on a tube or float;
never dive into strange water;
supervise children at all times;
keep basic rescue and lifesaving equipment available;
use planks, lifesavers, or towels in rescues;
do not swim when overheated;
do not swim during an electrical storm.

Dangerous Marine Life

Diving, swirmming, and fishing are activities that bring direct contact with marine
life. Some sea creatures can be dangerous. Unless you know an animal to be harm- -
less or nonpoisonous, avoid it.
Jellyfish and Portuguese man-of-war are stinging animals adrift in the open
ocean, They may be found near shore depending upon prevailing wind and current
directions. Stings from jellyfish can cause pain, skin irritation, and localized red- -
ness. It is best to avoid contact with any part of a jellyfish, even those that wash
onshore, since tentacles can continue to sting for some time.
The stinging cells can be neutralized with alcohol, ammonia, or meat tenderizer.
Stings by Portuguese man-of-war should receive prompt medical attention. Ex- t~- ~~
treme pain from these stings can cause a victim to go into shock. Do not attempt to
pull off tentacles; it may trigger stinging cells that have not yet discharged. Instead -
neutralize them and seek medical attention.

Safe Boating Tips

Gasoline vapors are explosive. Close all doors, hatches, and ports when
fueling. Smoking is prohibited. Do not operate electronic equipment ,.
including radios.
Know the fuel capacity. Ventilate all compartments after fueling.
Wear an approved personal flotation device.
Do not permit persons to ride on areas not designed for use such as the
bow, seatback, or gunwale.
Do not overload.
Keep alert for areas where swimmers or divers may be. Divers are marked
by a red flag with a white diagonal stripe through it.
Watch the wake.
Don't overpower; it is dangerous. ~~
Do not make high-speed turns. They can cause accidents. ~
Know and obey the "rules of the road."
Carry all required and recommended safety equipment including an an-
chor, strong line, flares, flashlight, mirror, and compass.
Know and heed all distress and weather signals.

The American Red Cross offers a boating safety course. Information on title, regis-
tration, reporting an accident, or safety equipment requirements can be obtained by
contacting a local Marine Patrol Office or Marine Patrol Headquarters at Depart-
ment of Natural Resources, 3900 Commonwealth Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32303.

Daytona Beach

Volusia County

-e Daytona Beach is visited annually by hundreds of thousands of tourists. The city
fronts the Atlantic Ocean; it is separated from the mainland by the saltwater Halifax
1 0 M i I e s River; Tomoka River is to the north and Ponce de Leon Inlet is at the south end.
' ~ Excellent fishing earns this area a reputation as a "fisherman's paradise," a reputa-
tion overshadowed by the fame and popularity of the beach and speedway.
~A 1A JOne of Volusia County's attractions is Daytona Raceway, 23 miles of wide, firm,
white quartz sandy beach, used from the early 1900s until 1961. Today the beach is
s ~ used for more leisurely recreational activities; driving is still permitted and care-
! 7 '~ fully monitored on the beach road during daylight hours.
f*
Volj -Ormond Beach is situated to the north near the confluence of the Tomoka and
v.A 9) Halifax rivers. It is speculated that the first settlers were victims of seventeenth-
century shipwrecks. In 1804, grants of land were offered by Spain to entice English
colonists living in the Bahamas.
Volusia County was first settled by Franciscan friars, who established missions
in the area around 1587. The earliest mission was located at which is now Daytona
Beach.
The climate has always been a primary attraction in the area's development. In
the late 1800s the area became known as the "Millionaire's Colony," frequented in
the winter by Vanderbilts, Astors, and Rockefellers.
In addition to the famed raceway and beach, Volusia County has a number of
other points of interest. Hontoon Island State Park, located on the St. Johns River
west of DeLand, is a preserve of over 1,000 acres of cypress swamp, open savan-
nah, and hammocks of pine, oak, and palm. The island was originally owned by a
soldier who fought in the Seminole wars around 1850. The park's primary focus is
on boating; however, an Indian ceremonial mound, 300 feet long, 100 feet wide,
and 35 feet high, provides evidence of the Timucuan Indians who were the earliest
known inhabitants of the island.

31
Count Be�d Coun

0 1 2 3 Miles

AlA

INSET 1

INSET 2

INSET - 3

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Volusia County / 0 �/oy4 Zo 40

NAMEQq0 & C,4"Qe# 404q40
NORTHERN DISTRICT
Ormond-by-the-Sea ** * * * * *
Ormond Beach * *a - - � � � 0 0 0 0 - S 0
CENTRAL DISTRICT
Daytona Beach
North End 0 * * * * * * * * *
Boardwalk * * * * *** * * �
South End 6 0 0 * * * * * ** *
Wilber-by-the-Sea � * * * * * **
Ponce Inlet Park * * * 0 * * g
New Smyrna Beach * * - * 6 � 0
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Edgewater Beach * * * *
Canaveral National Seashore/Apollo Beach 0 0 0 0 0

Ormond-by-the-Sea is an undeveloped, urban beach Daytona Beach, north end, boardwalk, and Wilbur-by-the-Sea has 1.5 miles of undeveloped
situated on the barrier island between Halifax River south end has 4.5 miles of beach frontage. This is a beachfront reached off S.R. A1A on Heron St., To-
and the Atlantic Ocean. The 2.5 miles of beach are highly developed, urban beach area with lifeguards. ronta Ave., and Curlew St. No alcohol allowed.
reached by street ends off Ocean Shore Blvd. (S.R. Street approaches off S.R. AlA to the north end: Plaza,
A1A): Essex, Lynnhurst, Ocean Edge, Ocean View, Belair, Boylston, Williams, Hartford, Seaview, Hori- Ponce Inlet Park undeveloped beach area is reached
Oceanside, Ocean Beach, Ocean Dunes, Ocean, Sea zon, Zeina, Seabreeze, and University. Access to the by a beach drive at the end of Ponce Blvd., 1.5 miles
Shore, Breezeway, Bass, Ocean Air, Marlin, Surfside, boardwalk: Riverview, Glenview, Seabreeze, Oak- north of the U.S. Coast Guard Reservation on S.R.
Imperial Hgts., and Ocean Breeze. No alcohol allowed. ridge, Ora, Main, Harvey, Kemp, and Broadway (U.S. AlA. No alcohol allowed.
92). Street approaches to the south end: Vermont,
Ormond Beach has 4 miles of developed, urban Goodall, Revilo, Lenox, and Silver Beach. No alcohol New Smyrna Beach has 7 miles of undeveloped, ur-
beach with lifeguard areas. Access points off S.R. allowed. ban beach. Access is off S. Atlantic Blvd. (S.R. A1A)
A1A are Harvard, Milsap, Cardinal (lifeguard area), on Beachway, Crawford, Flagler Ave. (lifeguard area),
River Beach, Rockefeller, Seminole, Granada (S.R. Daytona Beach Shores has access to 4 miles of E. 3d Ave., and 27th Ave. Only that portion of beach
40), Neptune, Amsden, Standish, Bent Palm Condo, undeveloped beachfront off S. Atlantic Ave. (S.R. area between the average high-water mark and the aver-
Deer Ln., Arlington Way, and Bosarvy. Granada Ave. A1A) at Botefuhr Ave., Van Ave., Dunlawton Blvd., age low-water mark is open to motorized traffic.
(S.R. 40) provides access to parking and driving on the Demott Ave., Emilia Ave., and Phillips Ave. No alcohol
beach up to the pier. No alcohol allowed. allowed.

"K~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~a

0~~~~~~~~ 0.25 Mile
.. (

X~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ocean Edge Dr.

Ormond-by-the-Sea (inset 1) __Ocean Dr.

________ ~~~Sea Shore D r.

~'Essex D r.

.~+LynnhurstDr

34 ~a

Ormnond-by-the-Sea (inset 2)

Halifax River

14~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~4
~,. -';, % % o ,+ O.a * !or

Ormond Beach (inset 3)
04)0 �oL S (P & 0

Halifax
%%% ~~~ ~_ -~..'" %.~/', � ~ %',- ,

4 ~~ ~j1~,45~hjt4 "'~ ~% %% 4.t; 4~,.
WO t MileA 0l
t 44 'ttLtIL Z
''>~~01 S
0to~~~~r~ 0 61 a~ 5

Mil
~~~Daytona Beach (inset 4)

35
I (P %4I1S0, ,t 0
0 1 Mile 1-

Daytona Beach (inset 4)

0 1 i 2 3 Miles

INSET 5

6~~~~~~~~~~~~

-Pne Inlet

Ponce de Leon InIet
~~~~~INSET

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~gC~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Surf casting Central district

<2�~~~~~~~~~~ i zzZ Halifx -J.&jjt

*iba~1mit h( 44~h * ~ ~j:< 1Scfr-/ ~$~/ftOg
'~~*~~''i*~~~I' II1k

'~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> ~~~~ ~ t Ij* t
0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~0

0 1 Mil

Da Sytona Beach ShrsWlu-yteSa(inset 65)3

Edgewater, south of New Smyrna Beach, has 31
2 3 M ile s Jmiles of undeveloped beachfront. Vehicular beach ap-
proach is on Hiles Blvd., off Atlantic Ave. (S.R. A1A).

Canaveral National Seashore/Apollo Beach has 5
miles of undeveloped quartz beach. Access is off S.R.
AlA with roadside parking and dune walkovers. Fish-
ing pier.
Edgewater Beach
Merritt Island, a barrier island situated between In-
dian River and Banana River, has 45 dune crossovers
off S.R. 3 to the undeveloped county beach that lies
south of J.F.K. Space Center. No alcohol is allowed.

O~~
Southern district

38~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~S
~~~~~~~~~~V
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

�> ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~4
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~F
edy~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

U -, ~~~~~~

Southern~~ distric

38~~~-~

Sea Turtles

Sea turtles are one of the only ancient reptiles surviv- If left undisturbed, each egg develops from a mass
ing today. They are said to go back 90 million years of cells to a fully formed, tiny sea turtle within 60
(Cretaceous Period) and were contemporaries of the di- days. The baby turtle uses a carnucle, or "egg tooth,"
nosaurs. There are two families of sea turtles found in to scratch a hole in its shell. The members of the clutch
eastern North America, Cheloniidae (four genera) and work together to break through the sand, choosing
Dermochelyidae (one genus). The four genera are the night to lessen their exposure to heat and predators.
loggerhead (Caretta caretta), the Atlantic ridley (Lepi- Once free, the two-ounce hatchlings race toward an
dochelys kempii), the hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbri- ocean they have never seen. Many are eaten by ghost
cata), and the green turtle (Chelonia mydas). The only crabs. More fall prey to fish, especially sharks, as they
representative genus of the family Dermochelyidae is - swim across reefbeds to the open sea. Only one in
the leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea). All five of . 10,000 eggs survives to maturity.
these genera are common to Florida's Atlantic and Gulf . " Tampering with nesting turtles or eggs is a serious
waters and:beaches. violation of the law. Use a toll-free number to report a
Turtles are identified by their size and the color and violation or to seek help for a stranded turtle (800-
shape of their shells. The green turtle is the main com- 432-6404), or call the Florida Marine Patrol toll-free
mercial species used for turtle soup. It has an olive- only in Mexico. The beach trek is laborious for the for violations (800-432-1829). These protective mea-
brown shell with "scutes" or plates radiating yellow, water-adapted turtles, so the female comes onshore at sures will help ensure a future for the last of the ancient
green, and black. These gentle creatures are primarily high tide, lessening the distance she needs to travel. reptiles.
vegetarian and prefer shallow seas where algae and She digs a hole with her hind flippers and deposits For more information about sea turtles contact Sea
seagrasses grow. The green turtle found in Florida wa- many white, leathery eggs slightly larger than ping- Turtle Rescue Fund Center for Environmental Educa-
ters is known locally as the black turtle. Its oval shell pong balls. The number of eggs, or clutch size, varies tion, Inc., 624 9th St., NW, Washington, DC 20001.
and long flippers make it an excellent marathon swim- among species from 10 to 300. She attempts to hide the Turtle Watch group (early summer): Chamber of
mer. Mature specimens weigh 200 to 650 pounds. exact site of her nest by covering the eggs and whisking Commerce, 1919 Commercial St., Jensen Beach, FL
Sea turtles have a nesting season from April through sand in every direction. However, she leaves large (315) 334-3444.
August. Females come onshore at night to lay their tracks on her retreat to the sea, providing poachers First aid station and release program: Mariners Aid
eggs in the sand. One turtle, the Atlantic Ridley, nests with a path to the nest. to Sea Turtles (MAST), Palm Beach Shores, FL 33404.

Saltwater Fishing Piers

Florida's saltwater fishing piers offer fishermen of all ages and degrees of experi-
ence the opportunity to enjoy fishing for the numerous species that appear in die
state's coastal waters. The proximity of the Gulf Stream to the Atlantic coast and the
broad and shallow continental shelf on the Gulf of Mexico coast provide habitat,
food, and water temperatures that bring many of the popular game species within
reach of the pier fisherman.
Piers provide a stable platform for fishing that is popular among persons not
wanting to fish from a boat. There is a modest fee (in some cases no fee at all), and
piers offer such advantages as day and night fishing, service facilities, nearby park-
ing, and immediate evacuation in the event of inclement weather.
Since weather and seasonal variations influence the catch rates and composition
at the piers, it is suggested that interested fishermen contact the pier to determine
availability of bait and current fishing reports.

Note: This information was compiled as a result of a Florida Sea Grant funded survey. The
State University System of Florida Sea Grant College is supported by award of the Office of Sea
Grant, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce (grant
number NA80AA-D-00038) under provisions of the National Sea Grant College and Programs
Act of 1966. This information is published by the Marine Advisory Program which functions as a
component of the Florida Cooperative Extension Service.

Canaveral Pier

SALTWATER FISHING PIER LOCATIONS Rod & Reel Pier
Bradenton Beach/Bradenton Beach Pier
Countyaity / Pi NaeFePinellas Clearwater/Big Pier 60 3.00
Indian Rocks Beach/Big Indian Rocks Fishing 3.50
Nassau Fernandina Beach/Ft. Clinch Fishing Pier $0.50 Oldsmar/Oldsmar Pier
Duval Jacksonville Beach/Jacksonville Beach Pier 2.50 Redington Shores/Redington Long Pier 3.50
St. Johns St. Augustine/Lighthouse Park Pier St. Petersburg/The Pier
Flagler Flagler Beach/Flagler Beach Pier 1.50 Safety Harbor/Safety Harbor City Pier
Volusia Ormond Beach/Ormond Beach Pier 2.00 Tierra Verde/Andrew Potter Pier
Daytona Beach/Ocean Pier Casino 1.00 Family Pier I
Sunglow Ocean Pier 2.00 Franklin Apalachicola/Battery Park
Brevard Cape Canaveral/Jetty Park Campground 0.50 Lafayette Park
Cocoa Beach/Canaveral Pier 1.50 Bay Panama City/Bay County Public Pier
Melbourne/Eau Gallie Fishing Pier County Pier
Melbourne Beach Fishing Pier Panama City Beach/The Dan Russell Pier 2.00
Sebastian Inlet Recreation Area Mexico Beach/Mexico Beach Pier
Merritt Island/Barge Canal Tingleys Fishing Okaloosa Ft. Walton Beach/Okaloosa Island Pier 2.50
Camp Santa Rosa Cantonment/Sound Fishing Pier
Titusville/Veterans Memorial Park Escambia Gulf Breeze/Ft. Pickens Fishing Pier
Palm Beach Juno Beach/Juno Beach Fishing Pier 2.00 Navarre Beach Fishing Pier 4.00
Lake Worth/Lake Worth Pier 1.50 Pensacola/Municipal Fishing Pier
Broward Dania/City of Dania Fishing Pier 2.00 Pensacola Bay Fishing Pier 0.25
Deerfield Beach/Deerfield Fishing Pier 1.25 Pensacola Beach/Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier 3.00
Lauderdale By-The-Sea/Anglin's Fishing Pier 2.00
Pompano Beach/Fisherman's Wharf 1.45
Dade Miami Beach/Haulover Park Fishing Pier 2.00
Sunshine Pier
Collier Naples/Naples Municipal Pier
Lee Bokeellia/Bokeellia Seaport Pier 2.00
Cape Coral/Municipal Pier
Ft. Myers/Ft. Myers Beach Pier
Tarpon Street Pier
Sanibel/Lighthouse Fishing Pier
Charlotte Port Charlotte/Charlotte Harbor Fishing Pier
Anglers Pier (Lemon Bay) (2)
Port Charlotte Beach Pier
Punta Gorda/Punta Gorda Municipal Pier
Sarasota Sarasota/Municipal Pier (Hart's Landing)
Venice/Venice Municipal Fishing Pier 0.50
Manatee Anna Maria/Anna Maria City Pier

I Ii

i i

Cape Canaveral/Cocoa Beach

Brevard County

Brevard County is located in central Florida on the Atlantic Ocean. Although only
U Y ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~25 miles wide, it is nearly 75 miles long, making it Florida's longest county. The
area has all the pleasures of sand, surf, and sun as well as international attention for
$ ~~~~its role in the space exploration program.
The north end of Merritt Island, between Indian River and Banana River, is de-
voted to wildlife management, public recreation, and the national space program.
i ~ ~~~Northernmost is Canaveral National Seashore under the direction of the National
Park Service, which has total responsibility for preserving the primitive beach
while providing public access to its natural environment.
Just south lies Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. These 131,143 acres,
established and maintained by the Fish and Wildlife Service, are sanctuary for en-
dangered species, such as the manatee, green sea turtle, brown pelican, and pere-
grine falcon.
The seashore and refuge lie along the Atlantic flyway, a major migration route
for birds. The journey for many birds begins in northern tundra regions of Alaska
Cape ~~~~~~~and Canada and ends in the tropics of Florida and the Caribbean, a journey of 4,000
C a P e ~~~~~to 6,000 miles. Merritt Island is a major wintering area; hunting is permitted within
C a na v eral the boundaries of the refuge as an important aspect of waterfowl management.
The remaining area of Merritt Island under government control is John F. Ken-
nedy Space Center (NASA). Visitors can tour the rocket launch site and a visitors'
center that includes exhibits, museums, and movies about the space program.

'~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~43

Klondike Beach

Canaveral National Seashore/Klondike Beach
,q,(& C < has 16 miles of remote, undeveloped oceanfront. This
*fi h D 1 section of beach between Apollo and Playalinda, at the
Can a v e r a I Nat i o n a Ional Volusia-Brevard county line, is accessible by foot only.

WX ^ 0 Seashor e J Canaveral National Seashore/Playalinda Beach is
If ~ on the seashore's southern edge within easy viewing
distance of the NASA rocket installations and may be
0o \ closed at times of Kennedy Space Center activities.
'~~~~~~~~~~~' 1 2:} 3 4* MlsAccess is west on S.R. 402 from Titusville.
: 0 * z2 3 4 5 Mies

':~:, Cape Canaveral Jetty Park has 26 developed acres
on the barrier island at the east end of S.R. 528 (Ben-
Pl a y ali n d a B each nett Memorial Causeway). There are camping, picnick-
ing, fishing, and beach facilities.

Cape Canaveral
15- N Cape Canaveral
Jetty Park

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Brevard County

NAME' ///NORT0 ER DISTRT |
NORTHERN DISTRICT
Canaveral National Seashore
Klondike Beach * * | *
Playalinda Beach * * � * � O * 0
Port Canaveral Jetty Park � � � � � � � � 0 0 0 0 0
CENTRAL DISTRICT
Sheppard Park 0� � � � � �
Sidney Fisher Park �� � � � � � � � �0
Lori Wilson Park � � � �* *
Cherie Down Park * * 0 � 0 * * *
Pelican Beach Park ����� � � � �� � � � 0
Bicentennial Park/Indian Harbor Beach 0� � � � � � � � �
Paradise Beach Park 0 � � �� � � �� � � � � �
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Indialantic Boardwalk 0 * 0 0 0 a * �
Spessard Holland Park ��� ��� �� � ��0 0 0
Long Point Park * 0 - � 0 - � * @0 @0
Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area �� �� � � � � � �� �@

=;Wi Cape Canaveral I Port Canaveral Jetty Park has 35 developed acres
: , *~?, ~w ~ ~Jetty P a r k on the barrier island at the east end of S.R. 528 (Ben-
0C ag l o)a>% nett Memorial Causeway). Camping facilities and a
i , 0 1 INSET - 1 fishing pier.

Fl~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Pt~~~~ X C 33Paradise Beach Park is a developed, urban park
Si,0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ g 3 1w_ S_____R. _about 2.25 miles north of Melbourne Causeway (S.R.
,****;~*Z~ , Ig ; ~~~~~~~~~~516) on SR. AIA. Group facilities and 270 parking
spaces.

INSET- 2

0 1 2 3 4 Miles

INSET - 3

a!2 i'~ fi *30 i

INSET - 4

Paradise Beach
Park
CeX 3 \~~~~~INSET - 5

Central district

Capeview Elementary Access
___ I Washington Ave. Cape Canaveral access, see map. (Only those ac-
. , d - e: 01X. X Adams Ave. cessways having special features are listed.)
. J efferson Ave. Grant Ave. (crossoverwith ramp, 5 parking spaces)
Madison Ave. Hayes Ave. (crossover with ramp, 30 parking spaces)
VISI Monroe Ave. 1 Garfield Ave. (crossover with ramp and platform, 20
Jackson Ave. parking spaces)
Harrison Ave. J Arthur Ave. (crossover with ramp, 10 parking
Tyler Ave. spaces)
,Polk Ave. McKinley Ave. (long handicap-accessible board-
: Taylor Ave. walk with platform)
M Fillmore Ave. Wilson Ave. (crossover with ramp, 4 parking spaces)
Pierce Ave.
Buchanan Ave. Cocoa Beach access:
Lincoln Ave. Harding Ave. (4 parking spaces)
Li h Johnson Ave. Barlow Ave. (6 parking spaces)
....n.. Ave. ~ ~;~Young Ave. (no parking)
Hendry Ave. (no parking)
GHayesl Ave. Mead Ave. (21 parking spaces)
Garfield Ave. Pulsipher Ave. (40 parking spaces)
rthur gAve. Winslow Ave. (handicap car ramp, 16 parking
Azure Lane spaces)
California Ave. (no parking)
eridian Ave.
i /Taft Ave. Cocoa Beach access (Cocoa Ocean Beach):
t � l vilson Ave. Leon Ln. (30 parking spaces)
Osceola Ln. (handicap ramp, 25 parking spaces)
Harding Ave.
Gadsden Ln. (14 parking spaces)
Barlow Ave.
Marion Ln. (14 parking spaces)
Young Ave.
Palm Ln. (handicap ramp; 31 parking spaces)
Flagler Ln. (handicap ramp, 21 parking spaces)
A--d Ave.
ulsipher Ave.
inslow Ave.
alifornia Ave.

Leon Ave.

3sceola Ave.
0 1 Mile
adsden Ave.

47
Cape Canaveral (inset 1)

� %I * % % ,,% .4 ' A j

p, ,o �% '. < ?

0 o5s Mile

Cocoa Beach (inset 2)

Sheppard Park is located at the ocean end of S.R. Cocoa Beach access (Seacrest Beach):
520. These 9 acres of developed beach have a prom- Ivy Ave. Summer St.
enade along the ocean and bicycle facilities. Holly Ave.
Tulip Ave. (handicap ramp, 80 parking spaces)
Sidney Fisher Park has 300 feet of beach with dune ,, 8 F e r n S t.
walkovers. Parking for 200 cars and bicycle facilities. Cocoa Beach access (Cocoa Beach): C
~4th St.-Ist St. Crescent Beach Dr.
Lori Wilson Park is located 1.5 miles south of S.R. Minuteman Causeway (Cocoa Ave.) 2 4 t h S t.
520 on S.R. A1A. This 20-acre park has 2 large pavil- 1st St. S.-16th St. S. (handicap ramps at 13th and Sunny Lane
ions and 2 dune crossovers. Parking for 46 cars. 10th Ave. S., 1st St. N., Tulip Ave., Flagler Ave., 2 t h St.
and Palm Ave.) : .2 7 t h S t
2 8 t h St.
Brevard Co. access: . 29t h St.
Olive St. (crossover with ramp, parking) ' : 3 0 t h S t.
Summer St. (large dune crossover, parking)
Fern St. (large dune crossover, 4 parking spaces) 3 1 s t St.
Crescent Beach Dr. (crossover, 10 parking spaces)
24th St. (crossover, no parking)
Sunny Ln. (crossover, some parking)
26th St.-35th St. cU)
S. Patrick Dr. 3 2 n d S t
Patrick Dr. . 1 3 3 r d St.
3 5 t h St.

48
South Cocoal/North Patrick Beach (inset 3)

Cherie Down Park has 3 acres of undeveloped beach
Cherie Down Park
off S.R. AIA about 0.5 mile south of S.R. 404. Wide
]{S r S | |1handicap-accessible boardwalk.
01 E3 j'S. Patrick Crossover
_ _ 71 Pelican Beach Park is located 2.5 miles north of the
intersection of S.R. 518 (Royal Palm Blvd.) and S.R.
A1A. This large beachfront park has paved parking
10 u f ^_ 1 A East Patrick Drive Crossover g for 200 autos, 2 beach crossovers, and an observation
tower.

0 1 Mile Bicentennial Park/Indian Harbor Beach has one
acre of developed beach at the end of Ocean Dunes Dr.
in Indian Harbor Beach.

:02Gran:;Pt St. Satellite Beach access:
Grant St.
parkr: Ln. Park Ln.
El ooar d . SEllwood St.
Ellwood St.
Cassia Blvd.
Public Crossovers
_jCassi a B I vd. DeSoto Parkway
Magellan Ave.
Pelican Beach Park Sunrise Ave.
Palmetto Ave.

De Soto Ave. Brevard Co. access (Canova Beach):
Wallace Ave. (handicap access)
Sunrise Ave. Eau Gallie St. (handicap access)
Palmetto Ave. Orlando St. (handicap access)
Eau Gallie Ave.
State of Florida public access:
g B i Ocea n t Dune s Dr.n niaIPark S.R. 518 (stone walkway to beach)
Bicen tennial Park

Wallace Ave.
State Road 518 Street End
Eau Gallie St
Orlando St.
49
South Patrick/Indian Harbor Beach (inset 4)

a; \ \ INSE T - 5 Spessard Holland Park has about 4,000 feet of de-
I( N S E T -veloped oceanfront situated 0.5 mile south of Mel-
t{ . :: : ; \bourne Beach on S.R. A1A. The park is separated by a
Mebo:urne Beach \.Patrick A.F.B. tracking station to become eventually a
ebourne Bech permanent landmark or be dismantled. The park has an
18-hole golf course, lighted ballfields, and 180 parking
spaces.
:: ;::C5160 Es o Spessard Holland Park
Long Point Park lies 2 miles northwest of the south
county line on the west side of the barrier island.
0Y ; 1 2 3 4 5 M~~~~eCampsites around the island circle a pavilion and
a 1 2 3 4 S Miles
, O 1 2 3 4 6 Uslell concession-picnic area.

Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area has 4,000
feet of beachfiont and extends across the barrier island
from the ocean to the Indian River.

Sebastian Inlet
t State Recreation

Southern district

Indialantic Boardwalk is a municipal park with no
facilities other than parking (400 spaces) and walkway.
'_ |g.Walkway Located in Indialantic at the beach end of Memorial
Mentor Ave. Walkover Causeway.

~i~~~~~~~ t3� rIndialantic access:
.>t WtsnDr. XWatson Ave. (16 parking spaces)
Watson B St.
.I =m rii~11! Tampa Ave. (4 parking spaces)

? i i F N X/ ASt.
/ m 1 ^<1Ocean Ave. (concrete boardwalk)
I1st Ave.
2d Ave.
I : ,t Indialantic Municipal Park 3dAve.
Boardwalk 4th Ave.
&� | X 0 ~~~~~~~~~~~~' 65th Ave.
. ~~~~~~~~~6th Ave.
0.5 Mile

IiTampa Ave. <K K
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*IHa rland Ave.
19~~~~~~~~~~~~~~i

- ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ BS.

; TOcean Ave.
I~st Ave. .VVZV
2i.a~nd Ave.

~3rd Ave.
4th Ave.
!5t2n Ave.
6 th Ave.

51
Indialantic/Melbourne Beach (inset 5)

Indian River County

Indian River County is located along the mid-Florida east coast. The county seat,
Vero Beach, is built on both the mainland and the barrier island. Avenues of coconut
palms enhance the residential area of this quiet resort town. Across the Indian River
Causeway lies the city's resort area that fronts a reef-protected beach.4>
History records the sinking of eleven Spanish ships carrying $14 million in goldBrewadCut
and silver from Havana during a violent hurricane in July 1715. The loss of the >�
ships cost the lives of 1,000 persons although I,500 managed to reach the shore andA A
set up camps. Offshore salvagers recovered $5 million of treasure, only to have it
stolen by a swashbuckling English pirate.
Although early Indian tribes settled in the county, a tradet named Barker was7
one of the first to start a business on top of an Indian shell mound. In 1865, August 1
Park settled in the present-day Sebastian area, opening a store to sell food and stores
to boating crews.
In April 1894 the S. S. Breckenshire ran onto the reef about �/ mile off present-
day Humiston Park. Its rusting remains are now sanctuary for multitudes of fish,
which makes the area interesting for scuba divers.
Grapefruit and oranges ripen during the fall and winter and can be picked until
summer and early fall. Vero Beach is the shipping center for the famous Indian
River citrus produced throughout this area. The groves and packinghouses often S6
welcome interested visitors.Wr
Located at the northern county line is Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area. It >> Th>4JKY& c
covers over 643 acres and is located on S.R. AlA about halfway between Verop
Beach and Melbourne. This developed park area includes the McLarty State Mu-F95
seum on the site of an old Spanish salvage camp.V

<A� ~ ~ l

I S e b a s t i a n I nle t Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area is an un-
!?~-'I'I �'~t 0 g developed beachfront state park about 9,500 feet in
length. It is 5.5 miles north of Wabasso Beach on S.R.
A1A with access and parking on both sides of the high-
; Recreation Area way before Sebastian Inlet Bridge. Alcohol is not per-
mitted. Overnight camping and a fishing pier.

Ambersand Beach Park will open in summer 1985.
k Big Ba It lies north of Orchid City about 5 miles from the in-
'04; ~ � mbersand Beach Park tersection of S.R. 510 and S.R. A1A. There is a dune
~�:~ ~~~~~~S5 ~~~~~~~~walkover. Development plans include a "sail-cat"
ramp.

Wabasso Beach Park is located less than 100 feet
��~?l lnorth of the intersection of S.R. 510 and S.R. A1A in
Wabasso Beach. There is access to 400 feet of beach-
front at Caymen Rd., Sandpiper Rd., Sand Dollar Ln.,
and Pebble Path. It is a developed beach with lifeguards
and is generally crowded on the weekends. Alcohol is
not permitted.

Wabasso Beach North County Walkway lies 2 miles south of
qPark Wabasso Beach on S.R. A1A. There is a dune walk-
over to almost 400 feet of undeveloped beach.

South County Walkway provides access to 525 feet
North County of undeveloped beach located 3 miles south of Wabasso
Walkway Beach on S.R. A1A.

South County
Walkway

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Indian River County 0

NAME
Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area |--| III II11 I |. 1. |- | |
Ambersand Beach Park I 101 I I I I I I| I I | I| 'I
Wabasso Beach Park |- I' @III O ! 1 |
North County Walkway l 0 I I I I I | |.1 I I I I I * I01 I*
South County Walkway |I I I I I |I I I| I I I | 1 I 0* *
i~~ ~~~ ~ I r I I I I I J I I I I I I I J

|~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~�O Ex~ #$~4t kk$ ~

Tarpon fishing

55
Vero Beach

0~~~~~~ 05 Mile
=Jaycee Park

Shores Walkway Beach Park
* ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ C onin RieahPrk

Government Tracking
Station

ren~~~~St a t io n

t\;ft A~ 0 Pa- k.... ! 0 |
tffsi~ S;exton Plaza

Pa ~ ~ vg~ Humiston Beach Park
E v veu e aster Lily L.
Pak F lar'ievine L.
Gay Feather L.

axRiomar Dr.

.....jt~~~~~~~~~~~ Ladybug L.

Southe Beach Park
'S ~~~~Sandpiper L.

�9 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Coquina L.
Pirate Cove L.
.,,~. &Round Island '-C~'~I~~Pelican L.
Southern distPark

Southern district Vera Beach (inset 1)

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

~'~~~~~~~~~~ ~C C> 0.�

Indian River County

NAME X > o" f ~ 0
Indian River Shores Walkway _ S * * *
Government Tracking Station 0 00 - 0 * * * �
Riverfront Park * * * * *
McWilliams Park * 0 * 0 *
P a r k Avenue Pa r k / A.W. You n g P a r k * * *
Vero Beach * * -
Jaycee Park S * - 0 0 0
Conn Beach * 0
Sexton Plaza 0 0 0 @ 0
Humiston Beach Park * * S I * *
South Beach Park * 0 * 0 0
Round Island Park 0 0 * o I *�� *

Indian River Shores Walkway is on Beachcomber's Park Avenue Park (A. W. Young Park) is an inland Sexton Plaza has 150 feet of developed beach in the
Lane about 3 miles north of Vero Beach from S.R. 510 park located between Canal 5 and Canal 6 on Indian Vero Beach central business district. Access to the
on S.R. A1A or about 500 feet north of the Govern- River. There is marked access on Park Ave. E. beach is at the end of Beachland Blvd. E.
ment Tracking Station.
Jaycee Park has 2,000 feet of developed beach with Humiston Beach Park provides 500 feet of devel-
Government Tracking Station, 9.5 acres of devel- marked access on S.R. A1A about 1.5 miles north of oped beach. It is reached by taking U.S. 60 east to
oped beach accessible at Reef Lane, Surf Lane, and the intersection of S.R. A1A and U.S. 60 in Vero Ocean Drive South for about 0.5 mile to Dahlia Lane;
Pebble Lane off S.R. A1A, is situated 2 miles north of Beach. access is marked.
the intersection of U.S. 60 and S.R. A1A in Vero Beach.
Conn Beach is on Phoenix Palm (S.R. AIA) about South Beach Park lies south of Riomar Country
Riverfront Park is located riverside of Vero Beach. one mile north of U.S. 60 in Vero Beach. This un- Club. Take S.R. A1A east, turn left on Causeway
Access is marked on the first left off the Merrill Barber developed beach is accessible via Avenida Palm, Lilac Blvd. to Ocean Dr. There is marked access to about
Bridge East. Rd., and Conn Way. 300 feet of developed beachfront.

McWilliams Park is a riverside recreation area. Ac- Vero Beach is an undeveloped city beach. Access Round Island Park has about 400 feet of undevel-
cess is 1,500 feet on the right after crossing the Merrill roads, in order of appearance on S.R. A1A south, are oped beach; access is off the Charles Mitchell Highway
Barber Bridge East. Easter Lily, Flamevine, Gay Feather, Riomar, Lady- (S.R. A1A) 12.5 miles south of U.S. 60 in Vero Beach.
bug, Sand Piper, Jasmine, Coquina, Pirate Cove, Tur-
tle Cove, and Sea Gull.

Coastal Management Program

Florida's coast is a unique ecological resource with many competing uses. The coast Florida's coastal management program involves and affects a number of people.
is important for commerce and economic development, for tourism and recreation, Citizen participation is guaranteed by Florida Statutes in three ways: access to pub-
and for residential purposes. To manage the competing demands on this resource, lic information, participation in rule making, and participation in licensing and en-
the 1978 Florida legislature passed the Coastal Management Act, which established forcement judgments. Florida's Coastal Resources Citizens' Advisory Committee
a coastal management program based on existing laws and regulations to protect, (CAC) provides one avenue for public participation by advising the IMC on coastal
maintain, and develop coastal resources. It stated that "the coastal zone is rich in a management issues. Appointed by the governor, the committee is made up of per-
variety of natural, commercial, recreational, ecological, industrial, and aesthetic sons representing government, industry, and environmental interests.
resources of immediate and potential value to the present and future residents of this Because of the geographic and legal bases for the program, the entire state of
state which will be irretrievably lost or damaged if not properly managed." Florida is considered to be within the coastal zone. The coastal management pro-
The key to an effective program in Florida is coordination among the state agen- gram is based on existing statutes and separate statewide programs. The IMC coor-
cies charged with administering the laws and programs that affect the coastal zone. dinates these authorities and assures that they are consistently and efficiently ap-
The act directed the Department of Environmental Regulation (DER) to develop a plied throughout the coastal area.
management framework for coastal programs. The Interagency Management Com- The essential purpose of the program is to balance development demands with
mittee (IMC) was created to unify state activities by making recommendations to environmental considerations. Reconciliation of competing resource demands is
the governor and cabinet on new policy, legislation, and interagency agreements. often a difficult task. The statutes and guidelines contained in the program are de-
The daily implementation of key coastal programs is carried out primarily by signed to ensure that public resources are used wisely. But these are not enough.
three agencies-the DER, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and the Ultimately, it will be the public's awareness, understanding, and appreciation of lim-
Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Other agencies involved include the De- ited resources that will ensure the continuation of these resources for future
partments of Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Rehabilitative Services, and generations.
Transportation, the Game and Fish Commission, and the Office of the Governor.
The comprehensive management program also includes local regional agencies
such as the water management districts and regional planning councils.

: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~w ~ ~ ~ ~,- ,
St. Andrews State R i

St. Andrews State Recreation Area

. j i -

:?~~~~~~~~~~~~~
r r,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

6~~~~~~~~~ -~~~~~~~-

-Z �~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I LN--.~~~~~~h

n i~~aBBPL1B~`S~~~:-~�"e~BBLB~~"1'Ph~P. i
r-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

4 ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~\

D~~~~~~~

Fort Pierce and area

St. Lucie County

St. Lucie County's name honors Saint Lucie of Syracuse, a name the Spanish also >
bestowed on Fort Santa Lucia in 1565. The county seat is Fort Pierce, known as the < d >
"Sunrise City." Commercial and pleasure fishing in the ocean, inlet, and river chan-
CountySAIA
nel are important attractions around Fort Pierce. Treasure hunting is also a big busi-
ness: more than $2 million in gold, silver, and historic artifacts have been recovered -- I
by salvage companies working off the Fort Pierce-Vero Beach coast. Recently, pro-
fessional treasure hunters located the sand-covered wrecks of two of the eleven 4 F95 ? A 47
Ships of the Silver Fleet that sank in a hurricane in 1715. Ik
The earliest inhabitants of the Fort Pierce-St. Lucie County area were the Ais
Indians. In 1565, this tribe resisted the attempt by Pedro Mendndez de Avilds to
settle the area. Later the Ais were driven out of the area by the Seminoles. The first +>j[.
European settlement was established by James Hutchinson on the beautiful barrier R
island now named for him.
Within the city limits of Fort Pierce is "The Savannas," a unique wilderness area C
purchased in part by the state under the Land Conservation Act of 1972. Over 550
acres are managed by the county, the rest by the State Game and Freshwater Fish 4
Commission. "The Savannas" has widespread fame as a well-managed fishing area 8 <
in addition to its other outdoor recreation opportunities.t
Jack Island State Preserve, formerly known as the Indian River Inlet Area, is a
950-acre island that is a sanctuary to more than 100 varieties of birds. Fishing/
around the island is excellent. An observation tower allows visitors to view a large
expanse of the island and the surrounding Indian River. A four-mile trail is main-
tained along perimeter dikes.
St. Lucie County has almost 22 miles of oceanfront and 50 miles of Indian River ~t
shoreline. Located in the heart of the world-famous Indian River citrus area, the<> 91
county offers visitors ocean breezes and mild climate in addition to luscious fruit. SAIo

g;.0, m!,0 1 2 3 Miles
~

9F ~* ,~ Avalon Park Access

Bryn Mawr Access
oyal Palm Way
Seminole Blvd.

":nyan Rd.

epper Beach State Park

J- ~
ate Pres;~lB~~
1 '~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~Ft. Pierce Inlet State
.....~ K, .Recreation Area /

S, 8 ~
North Jetty Park

outSoJetty Park

Northern district Jay prce Park ~'outhrfe Park

port~~~~~~~~~~~~or ire istI

62
w ay Dr. Access
St. Lucie Ct.
II ~] "~ valon Ave.
ocOnut Dr. Park
0 poise Ave.
xchange Park

:~ ~ ~],~ u lfstream Ave

South Beach
Oean Park

~~~ o 0:~~~~~~~~05 Mile

Northern district Jaycee Park uurf side Park

Fort Pierce (inset I)

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

St. Lucie County
C~ ~ ~ ~ ~~,0 o$?o x ;,;4C ,, O~CQ~AL~~0~ .0o

NAME ~0, Q.~~d4C o'~ ~ 'C
Avalon Park Access ** * * *
Bryn Mawr Access 0 - 0 *
Jack Island State Preserve * 0 � * * * *
Pepper Beach State Park and Visitor's Center 0 * - * * * *
Royal Palm Way/Seminole Blvd./Banyan Rd.
Access *0 0 0 *
Ft. Pierce Inlet State Recreation Area/
North Jetty Park * � - * - 0 0 * * �
South Jetty Park/Seaway Dr. Access 0 0 0 0 0
Ft. Pierce Beach/South Beach Ocean Park 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 � 0 0 0 0
Surtfslde Park 0 00 - - 0 0 * 0 *
Jaycee Park 0 0 0 0 0
Coconut Dr. Park 0 0 * * * * *
Exchange Park 0 0 0 0 *
Fredrick Douglass Memorial Park 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Avalon Park Access: 60 feet of undeveloped beach, Royal Palm Way/Seminole Blvd./Banyan Rd. ac- Surfside Park 6,000 feet south of Fort Pierce Inlet;
1.5 miles south of the north county line on S.R. A1A. cess: 5 miles south of the north county line; access to 2.8 acres of developed, urban beach park. Parking for
180 feet of undeveloped beach. 60 cars. No alcohol permitted.
Bryn Mawr Access: 300 feet of undeveloped beach,
2 miles south of the north county line on S.R. A1A. Fort Pierce Inlet State Recreation Area/North Jaycee Park is across South Ocean Dr. (S.R. AlA)
Jetty Park covers 340 acres just north of the Fort from Surfside Park; access west toward the Indian
Jack Island State Preserve is 631 acres of mangrove Pierce Inlet on S.R. A1A. The area has an abundant River.
island on the Indian River about 2.5 miles north of Fort variety of birdlife.
Pierce Inlet. Bird sanctuary with nature trails. Coconut Dr. Park has 81 feet of undeveloped beach
South Jetty Park/Seaway Dr. Access is located at at the south end of Surfside Dr. on Blue Heron Ave. No
Pepper Beach State Park and Visitor's Center: the north end of Hutchinson Island. It has 1.5 acres of alcohol.
2,000 feet of developed beach and a local history mu- developed ocean park with a fishing pier. No alcohol.
scum north of Fort Pierce Inlet. Exchange Park: 1.5 undeveloped acres about 2.25

Fort Pierce Beach/South Beach Ocean Park: miles south of Fort Pierce Inlet.
1,240 feet. A developed beach with a boardwalk.

Frederick Douglass
Memorial Park
;:O- Middle Cove Access

F~~~~~~~~~~~~0l

Blind Creek Access

erman's Bay Access

Normandy Beach ;
Access
Hutchinson Island

Southern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

St. Lucie County a> s'' , t

Middle Cove AccessI!10 10 1I III . 61 @ I
Blind Creek Access *I SI SI I1. 1.I * I I IIIIIII I le I. I1.1 1 *1 I
Herman's Bay Access I1 1. I I * I I. I I* e I I I I I I I .*1 11 IIaII
Normandy Beach Access 1* ' I I 11I II I* I I I I le1 101 lei

Frederick Douglass Memorial Park: 1,040 feet,
this developed park is located 4 miles south of Fort
Pierce Inlet on S. R. AIlA. -----

Middle Cove Access. I110 feet of undeveloped beach, ---__-----
5 miles south of Fort Pierce Inlet. ___

Blind Creek Access: 335 feet of undeveloped beach,
7 miles south of Fort Pierce Inlet.

Herman's Bay Access: 110 feet of undeveloped
beach, 10 miles south of Fort Pierce Inlet.

Normandy Beach Access: II10 feet of secluded, un-
developed beach, I11 miles south of Fort Pierce Inlet.

Fort Pierce area showing dune walkover
65

Florida Seafood

The waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico yield a variety of finfish
and shellfish-tilefish, shrimp, lobster, mackerel, snapper, oysters, flounder, scal-
lops, bluefish, and crab, to name a few of the most popular delicacies. Most of
Florida's coastal cities have at least one trait in common: fresh Florida seafood year
round.
Fish are classified as lean or fat, depending on their fat content. Lean fish have a
fat content of less than 5 percent, with the oil concentrated in their liver. Fat fish,
with over 5 percent fat content, are darker in color because the fat is distributed Shrimp. Due to its distinctive flavor, shrimp is a popular shellfish. It is sold ac-
Shrimp. Due to its distinctive flavor, shrimp is a popular shellfish. It is sold ac-
throughout the flesh. As a rule, the species that contain higher percentages of oil cording to size or grade, based on the number of headless shrimp per pound. For
cording to size or grade, based on the number of headless shrimp per pound. For
have more flavor. Fat fish, however, do not freeze as well as lean fish. It is recoi- maximum quality, cook fresh shrimp within one or two days of purchase. Rock
mended that after freezing they be used within three months. In preparing a recipe, shrimp is a unique variety easily mistaken for a miniature lobster tail. Not only the
lean fish may be substituted for fat fish, but the flavor of the fish may be masked and h ard shell, from which it derives its name, but also the texture of the meat isolike
hard shell, from which it derives its name, but also the texture of the meat is~like
more basting is required to prevent drying. For recipes that require frequent han-
more basting is required to prevent drying. For recipes that require frequent han- that of a lobster. The flavor is a blend of both. This delicious creature is more per-
dling of the fish, such as chowders, soups, or pickling, firm-textured fish such as ishable than other shrimp; therefore, most are marketed in a raw or frozen state.
grouper, red drum, or tilefish are preferred. These fish retain their shape and have a For either type of shrimp, two pounds of green tails (raw shrimp) will yield one
more pleasing finished appearance.
~~~~~more pleasing finished appearance.pound of cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp, enough to serve six people. Shrimp
When buying a whole fresh fish, look for these signs of freshness: eyes, bright, can be simmered, broiled, smoked (hickory chips are a favorite), and pan- or deep-
clear, and bulging; gills, bright red in color and free of slime; flesh, firm and elastic
fried, breaded or battered.
with no trace of browning or drying out; odor, fresh and mild, not fishy; skin,
iridescent and unfaded. The color should be characteristic of the species. Fresh
steaks and fillets should be judged by their flesh, skin, and odor. Frozen fish of good
quality show no discoloration of the flesh, no freezer burn (white, dry appearance
on the edge), no ice crystals, and little or no odor.

Shark. While most Americans are not familiar with shark as a food, other coun-
tries consider it a delicacy, such as Oriental shark-fin soup. Because of its abun-
dance, shark is considered an economical food for family consumption. Consumer
demand is increasing its availability in supermarkets, retail seafood outlets, and res-
taurants. The qualities that make shark appealing are a firm texture and versatility
in methods of preparation. The meat can be broiled, baked, fried, poached, bar-
becued, sauteed, or used in soups or casseroles. Cooked shark meat is also delicious
when flaked and added to salads and dips. For the angler, freshly caught shark
should be soaked in icewater with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or one tablespoon of
cider vinegar per pound of fish. Refrigerate and allow to soak for four hours to
neutralize any ammonia in the flesh of the shark.

Mullet. Mullet is prized for its delectable nutlike flavor. The most prevalent and
abundant species caught in the United States is the gray or striped mullet. Consid-
ered a fat fish, mullet can be prepared in a variety of ways-barbecued, baked,
broiled, smoked, and fried-without becoming dry.

Florida has an abundance of fresh seafood waiting to be sampled in local mar-
kets and restaurants. For information on preparing various species or for recipes on
20-minute seafood dishes, outdoor grilling, seafood hors d'oeuvres, seafood slim-
mers, or smoked seafood, contact Florida Department of Natural Resources, Bu-
reau of Marketing and Extension Services, 3900 Commonwealth Blvd., Tallahas-
see, FL 32303.

Fresh Florida seafood

Forest Zone

An adequate supply of fresh water, soil with sufficient organic content, and protec-
tion from harmful salt spray landward of the highly stabilized dunefields are the -
conditions necessary for the development of a "forest zone." ' ,-
The slash pine (Pinus ellioti) is the primary species in the coastal woodland
areas of North Florida. Distinguished by long needles clumped in twos and threes,
it is a rapidly growing tree often used in reforestation development. In South Flor-
ida its relative, the south Florida slash pine, occurs on the coast as far north as 1
Daytona Beach and Tampa and is the only pine on Big Pine Key. Physically similar
to the slash pine, this tree prefers a drier environment and has thicker stemmed
seedlings. The sand pine (Pinus clausa) occurs on coastal sand dunes as far south as
Dade and Lee counties. Its most remarkable characteristic is its ability to reseed in
burned-over areas.
Also found in the coastal woodlands, although mainly in South Florida, are
hardwood hammock areas or "tree islands." These hammocks occur on higher
rocky land usually surrounded by a lower marsh. Composed primarily of tropical
hardwoods, the hammock has a dense leafy canopy that allows little light to filter
through, thus creating an open, sheltered area. Characteristic trees of the hammock
include live oak (Quercus virginiana), gumbo-limbo (Bursera simaruba), pond ap-
ple (Annona glabra), wild lime, magnolia (Magnolia spp.), and cabbage palm
(Sabal palmetto). Orchids, Spanish moss, and other bromeliads are abundant.
Vines present are devils claw, poison ivy, wild bamboo, possum grape, and Virginia
creeper. A dense bank of saw palmettos (Serenoa repens) forms the perimeter of
many hammocks. Between 20 and 100 feet wide, the palmetto stand serves as an
excellent firebreak, a shelter for rattlesnakes, and an obstacle for hikers.

Forest edge

Martin County
Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the cast and Lake Okeechobee on the west, Mar-
tin County, named for Governor John W. Martin, is famed for sailfishing and all t
other types of sport fishing found in Florida. Ocean fishing, river and bay fishing, SAlA
freshwater fishing in the North and South Forks of the peaceful St. Lucie River, C0Uf
bridge fishing, and surf casting attract anglers from all over the United States.7
The county seat, Stuart, is the eastern terminus of the 140-mile South Florida 8914
Cross-State Waterway that connects the Gulf of Mexico near Fort Myers with theWO
Atlantic Ocean. The waterway was intended as a drainage artery for Lake Okeecho-
bee; however, boaters soon discovered it to be a sheltered cruise through the center87 4
of the state. 4
A favorite fishing and recreation area is Jonathan Dickinson State Park, coveringAl
over 9,500 acres. The park is named for a Quaker who survived a shipwreck in this riA
area in 1696. Captured by the Hoe-Bay Indians (from which Hobe Sound gets its 8
name), Dickinson was later released to endure a difficult journey to St. Augustine. ~ 'c
Swimming in the Loxaliatchee River, freshwater fishing in Kitching Creek, bothC'
salt- and freshwater fishing in the Loxahatchee, a boat dock and launching ramp, �0
and a jungle cruise on the "Loxahatchee Queen'" make this waterfront park popular0
with residents and visitors.7 7
Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge has about 400 acres dedicated to the pres-
ervation of natural conditions, providing protection to the diminishing population of/
manatees and green turtles that often frequent Hobe Sound. Wildlife populations in PaI ~ each C uf
the refuge include armadillos, raccoons, whitetail deer, and bobcats. Bobwhite 8710 0 1 M ii e
quail and mourning doves, as well as bald eagles, brown pelicans, and many types U N A
of wading and shore birds, have been observed in the refuge. Although small, this
habitat is typical of a rapidly diminishing type in Florida. High dunes reaching up to
30 feet above sea level drop sharply to the shoreline of Hobe Sound. Along the
shore, Australian pines and mangroves create a tranquil atmosphere. Inland the
high dunes are covered with palmettos and scrub oaks, vines and wildflowers. Hobe
Sound Refuge is the last of its kind in South Florida.

I M9Ga s s''"" c o ck St ri p
2 Miles
Jensen Beach Park

Park 'n Fish
Bryn Mawr Access
Virginia Forest Access
Tiger Shores Access
Stuart Beach/
~Y 'f~ ~~Martin Park

!>~�ie t~ ~ IFletcher Strip
House of Refuge Beach

,Chastain Strip
Sailfish Point Access

i ~St' Bathtub Reef
J~~~~~
Inlet

Lucie Inlet State

Preservation Area

Hobe Sound National

Wildlife Refuge

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Martin County 00 0 , o

NAME a 000.,
NORTHERN DISTRICT
Jensen Beach Park * * 0 *
Bob Graham Beach * 0 6 0 0 * *
Stuart Beach/Martin Park 0 0* O O *0 a a 0
House of Refuge Beach * * 0 . * .
Bathtub Reef 0 0 *0 0
St. Lucie Inlet State Preservation
Area 0 * 0
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge 0 0 0 0 *
Hobe Sound Beach * * 0 * * - | * *
Jupiter Island Park 0 * * | * * .

Jensen Beach Park has 3,000 feet of developed Access roads to undeveloped ocean beach off S.R. St. Lucie Inlet State Recreation Area has over 2.5
beach. Access is at the intersection of S.R. 707A and A1A: Glasscock Strip, Bryn Mawr, Virginia Forest, miles of remote beach on the north end of Jupiter Is-
S.R. A1A. Dune walkovers, bicycle facilities, a board- Tiger Shores. land just south of St. Lucie Inlet. Access to this area
walk, and a concession stand are available. (under development) is by boat.
Access roads to undeveloped ocean beach off Mac-
Bob Graham Beach is located 3,500 feet south of Arthur Blvd.: Fletcher Strip, Chastain Strip, Sailfish Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge has 4 miles
Jensen Beach on S.R. A1A. It has 2,000 feet of un- Point. of ocean beach on the northern end of MacArthur
developed beach with dune crossovers. Blvd. on Jupiter Island. Access to this remote and un-
House of Refuge Beach lies one mile south of Stuart developed area is by boat or by foot from a small park-
Stuart Beach/Martin Co. Park is 5 acres of de- Beach on Gilbert's Bar, Hutchinson Island. The oldest ing area.
veloped oceanfront park on MacArthur Blvd. off S.R. standing structure in Martin County, built in 1875,
A1A. It has bicycle facilities, 150 parking spaces, a served as a rescue and refuge center for shipwrecked Hobe Sound Beach lies approximately 2 miles north
250-foot boardwalk, and dune crossovers. On the prop- sailors. Visitors' museum open 1-5 P.m.; observation of Bridge Road on Jupiter Island.
erty is the Elliot Museum, housing a collection of tower. Current site of sea turtle research.
Americana dating as far back as 1750. Jupiter Island Park has 300 feet of developed beach
Bathtub Reef is 1,100 feet of undeveloped beach at at the eastern terminus of Bridge Road (S.R. 70) in
the south end of Hutchinson Island, just north of St. Hobe Sound.
Lucie Inlet. An offshore reef forms a shallow "bath-
tub" where snorkeling is excellent.

j~Hobe Sound National
Wildlife Refuge

-~~~ E~~~~.~Hobe Sound Beach

upiter Island Park

Southern district

Underwater Archaeology

Below the surface of the warm waters off the Florida coast lies a different world,
one that contains many artifacts associated with the past. Some of these relics are
ancient, such as cannons from old "men-of-war"; others are more recent, such as a
newly purchased anchor.
Much of the history of early Florida lies submerged off both its coasts. Glaciers
formed during the last Ice Age (Pleistocene Epoch) have been gradually melting.
As a result the sea level surrounding the Florida peninsula has risen an estimated
115 feet and in the process has "buried" prehistoric and early historic coastal sites %A
of habitation. .
One method of retrieving this lost history is through underwater archaeology, . .,?::' ?
although such research is limited because equipment is expensive to maintain. The
proper cleaning and preservation of recovered objects that have been submerged are
critical, since sea salts cause severe deterioration that continues after the artifact
has been removed from the underwater site.
Florida has the oldest program of conservation and preservation of underwater
artifacts in the United States. The first known underwater work was done in 1952,
when the National Park Service was trying to find evidence of French Huguenot
occupation at Fort Caroline on the St. Johns River in Duval County.
In addition to investigating former land sites now submerged, the state has also A
supervised private salvage operations on Spanish treasure ships known to have been ,$ -
lost to summer and fall hurricanes. Florida's share of recovered materials is pre- ,-.
served at the Division of Archives, History and Records Management in Tallahas-
see. Of course, artifacts from the most recent past-such as that anchor-may be
kept. Valuable items from historical times should be turned over to the state for
evaluation. ' .

-4

---:---- -

Palm~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:� Beach1

Palm Beach County

The graceful palms that inspired a county's name create a tropical setting for a
world-renowned resort area. Palm Beach was South Florida's first luxury wintering
spot for northern tourists, and it is still frequented by the famous and the wealthy.
Palm Beach County has 46 miles of frontage on the Atlantic Ocean and is one
$_01 ;t X iof the largest counties in Florida in both area and population. The Gulf Stream,
originating near the equator off the coast of Africa, comes closer to the shores of
Lake Worth than to any other point in the United States. Its constant temperature of
.ol XE; S X973 degrees in winter and 82 degrees in summer give the area one of the most de-
e dt lightful climates in the continental United States.
i1 s tt 3; 1 5Its history of settlement begins in the recent past, as Spanish and British occupa-
%.1�3 7 tions of Florida left no imprint on the lower east coast. The settlement of Palm
; A , ~ M Beach County and its eventual development as a tropical resort are due to the wreck
of a Spanish ship, the Providencia, in 1878 on the beach at Lake Worth. The early
('1 pioneer settlers were offered the cargo of 20,000 coconuts, of which 14,000 were
planted on the wilderness beach. With time the barrier sand key was transformed to
Palm Beach.
ia m The last remaining significant stretch of undeveloped barrier island in South
w a c h Florida has recently been acquired by the State of Florida and Palm Beach County
for conservation and recreational development. Located on Singer Island in North
RN .700 Palm Beach, the proposed John D. MacArthur State Recreation Area has over 225
acres of a wide range of natural coastal ecosystems including a wide beach, dunes,
;F95:1':: [.O j?~ ~tropical hammock, mangroves, and upland hammock. Also interesting is Munyon
Island, a 48-acre spoil island in Lake Worth almost entirely covered with Australian
pines. This site with its various environments in close proximity to each other repre-
:;?;:<~;~ ~~sents one of the finest coastal areas in the state. Palm Beach County is unique in that
}; }:~{ : � :el ~2 ~ ~l l[ O Yit offers both the wilderness beauty of the Everglades and the magnificence of a
I;, ::~:f ,::? luxurious tropical resort area having some of the finest coastline in the state.

C ii

Broward Couny

Blowing Rocks Beach

pJupiter Inlet
tt J u piter Beach Park

Jupiter asl n u
Par( ~
Jarlin Park
Jupiter
w % 1~0 I1 2 Miles

egasus Park
i; ;0 .;0 X : : J lno Beac h Park

S91 :1~ ~':<!'~ June Beach
J u noBeac h

9 0 S9 AB

John D. MacArthurIl
Palm Nor ~State Recreation
Reach ~ .......:~::,, ~ Area
Gardens

F95 L

~9 t , R~i 2 Howard Beach
O ~ , Riviera Beach
S708B , Municipal Park Palm Beach
Palm Beach
Shores Park
Lake Worth Inlet

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Palm Beach County

Blowing Rocks Beach (Coral Cove Park) * 0 0 0 0 0 * 0 *
Jupiter Beach Park 0 * 0 0 0 0 0 -
DuBois Park 0 *� v � v �
Jupiter Island Park * *� O* 0 0 0 0
Carlin Park 0 O O � � 0 5 0 0 e *
Juno Beach Park * * 00 00� * v 5
Pegasus Park (Loggerhead Park) * 0 5 0 C
Juno Beach * � * * a
McArthur State Recreation Area 0 * 1 *
Howard Beach 0 * 0 0 0 0 00 0. * *
Riviera Beach Municipal Park 0 010* - 6 - 1 � *
Palm Beach Shores Park * *0 - * - I | * *

Coral Cove Park (Blowing Rocks Beach) is a de- Carlin Park is a developed recreation area with 3,000 John D. McArthur State Recreation Area (for-
veloped beach with rock formations one mile south of feet of rocky beach on the Atlantic Ocean with life- merly Air Force Beach) is located on Singer Island be-
Martin Co. on Jupiter Island. It has 600 feet of beach- guards. Access is on S.R. A1A, south of Indiantown tween Lake Worth and the Atlantic Ocean. This is a
front accessible via S.R. AIA. Lifeguards on week- Rd. (S.R. 706) in Jupiter. new state park with plans for development of 8,000 feet
ends and holidays. of oceanfront beach in 1985. Access is off S.R. A1A,
Juno Beach Park lies one mile north of Juno Beach 2.5 miles north of Riviera Beach. No alcohol is allowed.
Jupiter Beach Park is a developed beach (1,700 feet) city limits on S.R. A1A. It has 300 feet of undeveloped
with lifeguards. Access is off S.R. A1A on Beach Dr. beach with lifeguards. Fishing pier. Howard Beach (Diamond Head) is 700 feet of un-
just south of Jupiter Inlet on the ocean. developed beach on S.R. A1A, directly north of the
Loggerhead Park (Pegasus Park) has 900 feet of Hilton Inn on Singer Island.
DuBois Park has 20 acres of developed beach with beachfront to open in summer 1985. It is located on
lifeguards; accessible via S.R. A1A on DuBois Rd. S.R. A1A and U.S. 1 about 1/8 mile north of Donald Riviera Beach Municipal Park has three marked ac-
south of Jupiter Inlet. Ross Rd. north of Juno Beach. cess points off Blue Heron Blvd. in Riviera Beach east
of 1-95. This is a developed beach with lifeguards.
Jupiter Island Park in North Palm Beach Co. is sur- Juno Beach has a small (2,600 feet), undeveloped
rounded by the Intracoastal Waterway. This rocky oceanfront beach that is difficult to find as it is not Palm Beach Shores Park is a developed beach north
beach is reached via U.S. 1, north of Indiantown Rd. marked (1983). It lies about 3/4 mile south of Donald of Lake Worth Inlet. It has 3,000 feet of beachfront
(S.R. 706), south of Jupiter Inlet and S.R. AIA. Ross Rd. on S.R. A1A. No alcohol allowed. Fishing with lifeguards.
pier available.

�W :4:' 8 T| 0 A L S 0{ XPalm Beach Municipal Beach has unlimited access
to 6 miles of undeveloped beach with lifeguards. A
large portion of the beach is bulkheaded. Parking is
0 4[ sitp ; X g P alm B e a c h very limited. The beach runs about 3 miles both north
Sy i C 5 _ |Municipal Beach and south of Royal Palm Way off S.R. A1A. No alcohol
S 80 9 F a '~ is allowed.
o Palm Beach
(U) r : \ S ZPhipps Ocean Park has 1,300 feet of developed
0:;050 ;yt 00000:f F98Vt Vt ; 0 f0 'l \\ g beach. Marked access is on Ocean Blvd., 2.5 miles
; C;So00 us Lk south of Southern Blvd. Bridge. No alcohol allowed.

G 0 000 0:; Qletn RidgeLS*. 0:Richard G. Kreusler Park has 450 feet of devel-
- 8 , 0 8 8 8 2 ~ :i(>T oped, rocky beach with lifeguards. Access is on S.R.
880 t71 ; s --, e A1A in Palm Beach, directly north of Lake Worth Pub-
lic Beach.
Palml I:~ -i
0 0.Ci prings Pihgsi ps Lake Worth Beach, in Palm Beach, is accessible at
Phipps Ocean Park
Ocean Blvd. (S.R. A1A) and Lake Ave. (S.R. 802).
This is a developed beach (1,200 feet) with a pool and
8802 Richard G. Kreusler Park ;lifeguards. No alcohol allowed.
0 : 802 P R Richard G. Kreusler Park
Li : Lake Worth Beach Lantana Park lies between Lake Worth and the At-
'\ _ =;:;:- I- lantic Ocean one mile east of Lantana at the intersec-
WDO f'I. : i tion of S.R. 12 and Ocean Blvd. (S.R. A1A). This is
Atjlantis W 0 : = i an undeveloped beach with lifeguards. No alcohol
1 0 . iP l f f C 8i 1 2 f li)f' , allowed.
ILantana Park
~ L antan :' SManalapan Beach is an undeveloped beach about
1i ;:> : P iW1,350 feet south of Lantana Ave.

Boynton Inlet Park has access to 600 feet of beach,
I ,: Hyp)0;210 : ;: 10-:;0;;li;0000 ;|;0:000io |in the town of Ocean Ridge, on S.R. A1A, directly
south of the South Boynton Inlet and north of Island
080.9: ,Manalapan Beach Dr.
:F1,l 9 Boynton Inlet Park
FO c e anRidgeHammockOcean Ridge Hammock Park Ocea RidgeHammockParklies north of Boynton
89 Public Beach. It has 1,100 feet of undeveloped beach
ton_ - - Boynton Public Beach accessible from S.R. AlA, in Ocean Ridge.

B O fel a
t 3CentralW 0 1 2 3 Mdistrict

Central district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Palm Beach County .

CENTRAL DISTR I CT
Palm Beach Municipal Beach * * * * X 0 0
Phlppe Ocean Park ** * 0
Richard G. Kreualer Park 0 0 0 00 0 0 00 0 0 0
Lake Worth Beach * *� o � - � - 0
Lantana Park * � � *
Manapalan Beach * * * 0
Boynton Inlet Park � * * 0 6 0
Ocean Ridge Hammock Park * * * e
Boynton Public Beach 0 0 0 00 0e 0 0 0 0
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Gulf Stream County Park 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 * 0 0 0 0
Delray PublIc Beach **e * *
Atlantic Dunks Park * * - * * * 0
Spanish Rlver?%Park 0 � 0 06 0 0 0 0 0 � 0
R a d R I a I r&P a r k* -OO O * -O *- * *
Red Reef Park hi 0 0 0 e e e - 0 * *
South Beach Park � - � * � �
South Inlet Park * 0 6 0 � � *

Boynton Public Beach is 2 blocks north of the 1-95 Atlantic Dunes Park, on S.R. AlA approximately Red Reef Park, about one mile south of Spanish
exit on S.R. AlA in Ocean Ridge. one mile south of Delray Public Beach, has 7 acres River Park on S.R. AlA, has access to 67 acres of de-
of developed beach with lifeguards. No alcohol is veloped beach with lifeguards. No alcohol is allowed.
Gulf Stream Co. Park has 600 feet of developed allowed.
beach on S.R. AlA, south of Briny Breezes mobile South Beach Park is on S.R. AlA (Ocean Blvd.) at
home community, north and east of the St. Andrews Spanish River Park lies one mile east of Boca NE 4th St. The beach and ocean can be reached from
Club. Raton. Access points are on Ocean Blvd. (S.R. AlA) three locations in the park. This is an undeveloped
just south of NE Spanish River Blvd. in Boca Raton. beach with lifeguards. No alcohol is allowed.
Delray Public Beach is accessible along the entire This developed beach covers 49 acres of the island
7,000-foot length bordering the east side of Ocean from the Atlantic Ocean to the Intracoastal Waterway. It South Inlet Park has 850 feet of developed beach
Blvd. in Delray Beach. This is a developed beach with has over a half mile of beachfront with lifeguards. No with lifeguards on S.R. AlA, directly south of Boca
lifeguards. No alcohol is allowed. alcohol is allowed. Inlet.

089~ 0 1 2 Miles

195 AlA

Guls r Gulf Stream Co. Park

Delray Public Beach
806 Dira ~Sarah Gleason Beach)

2 ~ ~ ~ f~Alantic Dunes Park-.

Highland Beach

S794 ~~~SA 1A
White pelican

C809 ~~~Spanish River Park

7887777

C78Red Reef Park

RATON ~South Beach Park
F9 5

Southern district

Endangered Species Act of 1973

To conserve species of fish, wildlife, and plants that are in danger of extinction, the
Endangered Species Act of 1973 makes it unlawful (with certain limited excep-
tions) to take, to import into, or to export from the United States any species desig-
nated as "endangered" on the official list published by the secretary of the interior,
or any part of or product made from such species. A second category of species,
"threatened," is provided for in the act and may also be subject to import and export
limitations. An up-to-date list of the species affected will be provided to the traveler
upon request. Such listed species, or any parts of or products made from such spe-
cies, that are being imported or exported will be subject to seizure by agents of the
U.S. Government.
The secretary of commerce has responsibility for certain endangered and threat-
ened species, particularly certain species that reside in the marine environment.
The Department of the Interior has responsibility for other endangered and threat-
ened species. Among the animals that are endangered are some species of whales
and sea turtles. Some of the products made from these sea turtles are combs, pol-
ished shells, jewelry, leather goods, meat, oil, cosmetics, and preserved animals.
To facilitate enforcement of this law, all fish and wildlife, other than some ex-
empted personal and household effects, that are imported into, or exported from,
the United States must pass through certain designated ports in accordance with
Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 14. The following ports are cur-
rently designated as ports of entry for all fish and wildlife: New York, N.Y.; Miami,
Florida; Chicago, Illinois; San Francisco and Los Angeles, California; New Or-
leans, Louisiana; Seattle, Washington; Honolulu, Hawaii.
Complete information may be obtained from Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, DC 20240; Director, National
Marine Fisheries Service, Washington, DC 20235; Regional Director, Southeast - --- -
Region, 9450 Gandy Boulevard, Duval Building, St. Petersburg, Florida 33702.
Marine Patrol: (904) 488-5757. __

- ----- ~~~--- ' -2.

Brown pelican

~~~il,~~~~~,

lampao i ISO

Pompano Beach

Broward County

Broward County, named for Governor Napoleon B. Broward, is located in southeast aw gw'g M''M1S .t4~ra~[~~
Florida between Dade and Palm Beach counties in the heart of the Gold Coast. Lay- 10 PAMI ' ch
ish tropical beauty and miles of palm-lined lagoons, canals, and rivers honeycomb
the exotic resort city of Fort Lauderdale, Plush waterfront homes face canals, and 4
much of the public beach is lined with towering luxury hotels and high-rise condo- s AIA
minium apartments. Each spring college students ritually flock to the Fort Lauder-39
dale area to escape the chill of winter and the stress of studying. Fort Lauderdale>
was named for an officer of an army fort built in 1838, during the Seminole War.
Fort Lauderdale Beach begins at the north end of what is known as the Galt
Ocean Mile. This area represents a one-mile stretch of hotels, high-rises, and con- P7
dominiums. There is little or no public access to the beach from the west. However,
north-south foot traffic or access is available.
From the Galt Ocean Mile, the beach continues south, bordered by smaller
motels and private residences, with limited public access for approximately one and
a quarter miles. The portion of coastline that is referred to as the Public Beach
begins at the 1800 block of North Atlantic Blvd. and extends 3.5 miles south. This
portion has unlimited public access: metered parking, immediately adjacent to the
beach, is available. The city provides surfing and windsurfing areas and a launching
area for nonpowered small craft under 18 feet. Lifeguards are on duty from 9:00
A.M. to 5:00 P.m. All beach rules are enforced via city ordinances. Food and bev-
erages are available across the street from the beach in local restaurants and hotels.0
Hugh Taylor Birch State Recreation Area covers 188 acres in downtown Forta
Lauderdale. The tropical atmosphere is a result of the 70-degree Gulf Stream that
extends easterly along the ocean and borders the Intracoastal Waterway on the west. 4; At
Two unusual features of the park are a youth camp, which can accommodate 70I . i
people by reservation, and a scenic railroad, which winds for 3 miles through the
park, along the ocean and waterway and over two freshwater lagoons.

8 3

,I INSET -
0 1 M ile e

Northern district

Deerfield Beach is an undeveloped beach with 3,030 Pompano Beach has 3,000 feet of developed beach
feet of beach frontage. Access is off S.R. A1A. North with lifeguards. Access is off North Ocean Blvd. (S.R.
Beach: at N.E. 7th St., 4th Ct., and 2d St. Central AIA) at N.E. 10th St., 7th St., 5th Ct., 5th St.; at 2d
Beach: at Access Way, S.E. 1st St.-4th St. South St. S.E., 4th St., 6th St., and 8th St. A public parking
Beach: at S.E. 6th, 7th, 9th, and 10th streets. lot is located between N.E. 5th St. and Atlantic Blvd.
(S.R. 814). Fishing pier.
Deerfield Island Park is a destination island park for
boaters. These 56 acres are accessible only by water.

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Broward County O ,0
Deerfield B (e 0O *' .0 40404 04
0 00 r il" isan Pk' 0

Pompano Beach~~~~~~~ 0 t~0 000 0~ 0~~
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea~~~~~ 0 40 S0 0 '. 0 0 0
NAME 8q q0*04~~ ~P* 4 4Qt *
NORTHERN DISTRICT
Deerfield Beach S 6050055 @0 * 6
Deerfield Island Park 0 0 6O SO S 0 0
Pompano Beach 0 *@0065000000 0 0 S
CENTRAL DISTRICT
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea 0 0 0 0 0 0 0a 0 6 0
Ft. Lauderdale Beach 0 *@S@SO0 S S S
Hugh Taylor Blrch State Park ***S*****S*** 50 0 0
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
John U. Lloyd State RecreatioflArea 000000665 @50 0 0 * a
Dania Beach 0 0 6 0 0 0 60
Hollywood Beach S SS@SSSOO 6006 5 0 6
Hallandale Be-ach 0 0 00 e0 0 0 0 0

I.nt at o Be. t~
8 8~~~

,,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~j

1O 8 ~~~~~~~~QI a S

30 e

0 0.25 Mile

Pompano Beach Deerfield Beach (inset 1) 85

� t

0
o 1 Mile

Central district

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has a shoreline of about one Fort Lauderdale Beach has access to over 21,000 Hugh Taylor Birch State Park has access to 400
mile accessible on Pine Ave., Washington Ave., El feet of developed crushed shell/coarse sand beach. Ac- feet of beach. It is a developed state recreation area that
Prado, Commercial Rd. (S.R. 870), Datura Ave., Hi- cess street ends: Oakland Park Blvd. (S.R. 816), N.E. extends from the Atlantic Ocean to the Intracoastal Wa-
biscus Ave., Palm Ave., and Flamingo Dr. No alcohol 30th St., Vista Park, N.E. 27th St., 25th St., 23d St., terway. Access from Fort Lauderdale is east on Sunrise
allowed. Fishing pier. 22d St., 21st St., North Atlantic 1900 block, and Sun- Blvd. (U.S. 1) to North Atlantic Blvd. (S.R. A1A). No
rise Blvd. (U.S. 1). Additional open access may be had alcohol allowed.
along S.R. A1A where it parallels the beach. No alco-
hol allowed.

i00Pori; t X 0 0 fi w John U. Lloyd State Recreation Area covers 244
acres of barrier island north of Dania. Access is on
t:? F 9 ; 0;:; f:: 0; > 0 0 i V 0 Fl1 / - 00 - 0 m Dania Beach Blvd. (S.R. A1A). This developed state
recreation area has over 11,000 feet of beach frontage
with lifeguarded areas. No alcohol permitted.
John U. Lloyd

L/State Recreation Area DDania Beach has 1,000 feet of undeveloped beach.
Access is east off S.R. A1A on Oak St.

/Hollywood Beach has over 5 miles of developed
beach with lifeguards. Street-end access off North
C, d, Of /tOcean Dr. See map on next page for access streets,
from Sherman in the north through Greenbriar at the
south. No alcohol is allowed. There is a catamaran
launch and community center. Hollywood Boardwalk
is a wide sidewalk area bordered to the east by beach
and the west by rows of shops, restaurants, and hotels.

H- allandale Beach is a developed beach with five
a:dune walkways off Ocean Blvd., south of SR. 824. No
~~~~~~~~~i-~~~~~ s82 ~alcohol allowed.

FF1

A Hallandale Beach8

, c=:~jL J :::Southern district

/ Sherman St.
Mi :i Thomas St.
New Mexico St.
New Hampshire St.
A14 Lee St
Scott St.
Missouri St.
Coolidge St.
Harding St.
Aj; ;Wilson St.
Carolina St.
Taft St.
Roosevelt St.
;:!Nevada St.
Nebraska St.
McKinley St.
:,Oklahoma St.
Cleveland St.
Arthur St.
Connecticut St.
Garfield St.
Hayes St.
Grant St.
JohhsI,1t ; ,Minnesota St.

Michigan St.
Buchanan St.
Indiana St.
North Lake Pierce St.
Fillmore St.
New York St.
Taylor St.
Arizona St.
Polk St.
Tyler St.

Harrison St.
Van Buren St.
Virginia St.
Jackson St.
Oregon St.
Monroe St.
South Lake Madison St.
Madison St. "
Georgia St.
Jefferson St.
Washington St.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Azalea St.
Bougainvilla Tr.
Crocus Tr.
D affodil St.
Eucalyptus St.
Foxglove Tr.
~1 a~~ i~Greenbriar St. HollywoodBeach (inset 2)

Beach Erosion and Restoration

Sandy beaches, those areas valued by tourist and resident alike, are subject to con- can restore the beach to its original contours. This process must be done periodi-
tinuing erosion, for a variety of reasons: wave action, offshore slope, sea-level rise, cally to keep the same beach width,
climatic conditions, type and source of sand. In addition, manmade structures (sea- The largest beach restoration project in the United States was begun in 1978-79
walls, groins, jetties) can accelerate erosion by intensifying and changing wave pat- by the Army Corps of Engineers at Miami Beach in Dade County. This project con-
terns along the shore. Given these twin forces, the rate of deposition of now sand on sisted of placing 13.5 million cubic yards of sand on 9.3 miles of shore to create a
a beach is generally less than the rate at which these forces remove existing sand. new beach 300 feet wide where erosion had all but taken the sand off Miami Beach,
Erosion results. In addition, 21 1,000 cubic yards are required annually to maintain the beach at its
Because beaches are valued so highly for recreation, people have built structures desired width. Naturally, the cost is high (over $62 million). The photographs on
on or near them. Erosion gradually exposes these structures to wave action and page 97 show the dramatic change brought about at Miami Beach through this
storms, and it reduces the visible beach area. The use of seawalls and groins does project.
not generally protect beaches and associated property for long because the struc- One alternative to periodic beach restoration is protection of existing sand dunes
tures may add to erosion. The increase in beach construction and shoreline devices by preventing the construction of nearby buildings. Also, walkovers can be con-
has increased erosion pressure on public and private beaches. Also, the loss of sand structed over the dunes, grasses planted to "grow" new dunes, and fences placed to
dunes through thoughtless construction practices has reduced a source of sand for "capture" sand for new dunes. Dune protection, stabilization, and formation are
replenishment of beaches as well as storm protection to structures. important programs of the Florida Division of Beaches and Shores, which oversees
Beach restoration is one way to replenish a beach with sand to add to its recre- shoreline construction and promotes dune protection. Further information can be
ational and protective value. This process consists of finding, transporting, and obtained from Division of Beaches and Shores, Department of Natural Resources,
placing acceptable sand onto the beach. While restoration cannot stop erosion, it Commonwealth Building, Tallahassee, FL 32303.

I U *

Biscayne Bay

Monr County

.� * X o~~~~~~ 5 ,O10 Miles

Dade County
Dade County lies on the southeastern tip of Florida. Established in 1836, this The 406-acre park at Cape Florida State Recreation Area, located off U.S. 1 (via
county was named after Major Francis L. Dade, the central figure in the Dade Mas- Rickenbacker Causeway to the lower tip of Key Biscayne near Miami), has a lush
sacre, near present-day Ocala, in 1835. Early settlers perched on the few high lime- profusion of palm trees and tropical plants bordering the swimming beach. Cape
stone ridges where dwellings could be constructed. It was not until 1910, when Carl Florida Lighthouse, one of South Florida's oldest structures, is the focal point of the
Fisher migrated from Indiana, that landfill began in present-day Miami. Several park. Built in 1825 the lighthouse has endured marauding Indians and other dra-
years later he took title to what is now South Miami Beach. John Collins, a farmer, matic incidents by pirates and "lawless persons." Crandon Park, on the northern
was attempting to grow avocados on the narrow barrier island, now developed with end of Key Biscayne, has 698 acres of beach with facilities. A public golf course is
hotels and motels. Both Collins and Fisher began dredging and filling the landward located within the park boundary.
side with silt that was replacing dense mangrove and tropical vegetation areas. On Virginia Key, just a short distance after crossing the Rickenbacker Causeway,
Miami Beach was in its beginning stage, to be settled gradually by hundreds of is the Miami Seaquarium and Planet Ocean. On the mainland, just south of Miami,
northerners escaping frigid winters, carried south on Flagler's railroad, is the Vizcaya Art Museum. To the south of Coconut Grove, off Old Cutler Road, is
To the west were the vast Everglades swamps and to the south a string of fragile the Fairchild Tropical Gardens, where tropical plants can be viewed in a parklike
islands named the Florida Keys. When Miami Beach vacationers stand on the 9.3 setting.
miles of restored beach and watch the construction of the Beachfront Park and the Prior to 1900, the pineland area south of Miami was known as the "homestead
1.8-mile Promenade scheduled for completion in 1986, many may not be aware of country," federally owned and open to homesteaders. Because of an abbreviated
the serious beach erosion that had all but depleted most of the beach. The board- designation on a Florida East Coast Railway freight car, the area station was subse-
walk and storm berm on which it is being constructed are expected to provide an quently named Homestead. Many winter vegetables are grown here and shipped to
excellent beach attraction. northern markets.
The City of Miami Beach has many buildings constructed during the 1920s and Biscayne National Park lies to the east of Homestead Air Force Base and encom-
1930s. The architectural styles of this era, known as Art Deco and Mediterranean, passes Sands Key, Elliot Key, and Old Rhodes Key. The 175,000 acres consist of
can be seen as renovation of the buildings progresses. islands, coral reefs, turtle grass beds, and hardwoods, of which mahogany, Jamaica
Dade County has become a dynamic intercultural area, blending many nationali- dogwood, and lignum vitae are of interest to naturalists. The abundant variety of
ties and opening a vast market for international business. A major Cuban influence birds and fish seen in the shallow waters may capture the interest of many.
has added diversity to the rapidly growing area. Extensive port and airport facilities
support the movement of people and goods to other areas.

Loggia Beach

I 96 th St. Walkover

7 i;.

S Sunny Isles Beach & Pier

Miami Beach

Bakers Haulover Cut

96th St.
195th St.

92 eX 0 'b~92nd St.
orthen 1 Mile
90th St.
92
Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Dade County " , �," �

Golden Beach Illoloo IF 1@looI 1 1o 1 1 l I 101 11 I 1� 1
Loggia Beach I 11 I I I 1 .1 11 I
Sunny Isles Beach & Pier I I Ioi 1I1 1�1 I I I | I I I I�|11
Haulover Beach leilo�l�l l ololll�lIlollI@ Ioi � I 11
Bal Harbor/Surfside 1�1 �l1o11 1o1l�11 11[1 1.1.1 1�1 | I I�1

Golden Beach, 1.5 miles of undeveloped beach, is Sunny Isles Beach and Pier lies on the barrier island Haulover Beach and Pier has 172 acres of devel-
difficult to enter. There is a parking lot at 196th St. and off North Miami Beach. Access to this developed rec- oped beach with lifeguards. Access is one-half mile
a dune walkover at 195th St.; both are on Ocean Blvd. reation area is at the intersection of Sunny Isles south of S.R. 826 (Sunny Isles Rd.) on Collins Ave.
(S.R. AIA). No alcohol allowed. Causeway (S.R. 826) and Collins Ave. (S.R. A1A). (S.R. A1A). No alcohol allowed.

Loggia Beach lies off S.R. A1A in Golden Beach. Bal Harbour/Surfside have 2 miles of undeveloped
Access to this undeveloped beach is on Ocean Blvd. beach. Public access along Collins Ave. (S.R. A1A) at
opposite the entrance to Central Island. No alcohol 96th, 95th, 94th, 92d, 90th, 89th, and 88th streets.
allowed.

,65th Street Park

Ocean Front Park

Indian Beach Park

C4 fINSET - 2

! I Lummus Park

Ocean Beach
Pier Park
e Government Cut Park

Crandon Park

0 1 Mile
Central district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Dade County ~ ~ ~ ~~

NAME q6 O * ' Adz 5 oe'e ?
North Shore Ocean Front Park 0 0 0* 0 0 0 0 0 0
North Shore Park 0 a 00 00 0 * 0 0 0 0
66th St. Park * 0 *� - 0 0 0
Ocean Front Park a 0 0 0 0
Indian Beach Park 0 0 0 0 0 0
Miami Beach 0 0 * *
Collins Park ** - e * * * 0
Lummus Park * * 0 0 * 0 * 0
Ocean Beach * * *� - 0 * 0
Pier Park * * - e 0 0 0
Government Cut Park 0 0 0 0 e

North Shore Ocean Front Park has 24 acres of de- Ocean Front Park lies on the barrier island between Lummus Park has 48 acres of developed beachfront
veloped beach with lifeguards. Access and parking are Indian Creek and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a developed park with lifeguards. It is between 5th St. and 14th St.
available east on 79th St. Additional parking is between beach with lifeguards. Access is from Collins Ave., on Ocean Dr. in Miami Beach.
84th/85th St. and 81st/80th St., west off Collins Ave. about 2 miles south of 71st St. (S.R. 828).
(S.R. A1A). No alcohol allowed. Ocean Beach on Miami Beach is an undeveloped rec-
Indian Beach Park is on Collins Ave. about one-half reation area with lifeguards. This area of 6 acres is ac-
North Shore Park lies on the barrier island between mile north of Arthur Godfrey Rd. The park is the main cessible at 2d St. and 3d St. on Ocean Dr., south of
Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It has 36 acres of access to almost 2 miles of boardwalk and beach with Lummus Park.
developed beach with lifeguard areas. Access points lifeguard areas.
along Collins Ave. at 77th St., 74th St., 73d St., 71st Pier Park is at the intersection of Biscayne St. and
St. (S.R. 828), and 69th St. Parking lots are off Collins Miami Beach provides public access to undeveloped Ocean Dr. at the south end of Miami Beach. This de-
Ave. at 76th/75th St., Ocean Terrace, and 73d/72d St. beach east of Collins Ave. at street ends from 43d St. veloped beach has more than 4 acres of beach with
through 29th St. lifeguards.
65th St. Park, off Collins Ave. about 100 yards south
of 65th St., has a small (1.5 acres), undeveloped, ocean- Collins Park is a developed beach with lifeguards and Government Cut Park (South Point Park) at the
front beach with lifeguards. access to the boardwalk. The park is situated between southern tip of Miami Beach is under development and
21st St. and 22d St. will be partly open in summer 1985.

S ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~41st St.
40hSt.
0 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 38th ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~St.

35hSt.

< ~~ 31st St.
30th St.

V~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~S.
~~~"j~~ 77'

Miami ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~3t BeciSet.1

Miami Beach (in~1hSet.2

Miami Beach before restoration After beach restoration

BISCAY 3

B
co

Bill Baggs - Cape Florida 1 inia
State Recreation Area rBeach

1 Mile

Key Biscayne

Matheson Hammock County Park has 580 acres of Crandon Park has 698 acres of developed ocean
park and bay beach. Access to this developed park is beach, north of Key Biscayne, on Crandon Blvd. Golf
off Old Cutler Rd. at 97th St. and Bay St. in South course is located within park.
Coral Gables.
Bill Baggs/Cape Florida State Recreation Area
Virginia Beach has 145 acres on Virginia Key be- lies at the south end of Key Biscayne. The 406-acre
tween the mainland and Key Biscayne. Access is off park is accessible off Crandon Blvd. No alcohol is
Rickenbacker Causeway. Park is still in the planning- allowed.
construction phase in 1985.

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

lDade County, 4 0

NAME A0

Crandon Park

SyKey Bi.scaynRe

HOM~~~~~~~~C

Id~

100~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~0

Southern district~~~~~~~~~~~

Miami Beach Beachfront Park and Promenade

A major new attraction on recently renourished Miami Beach is the construction of
a boardwalk between 21st Street and 46th Street in Miami Beach. This project, en- / l
called the Beachfront Park and Promenade, is 1.8 miles long and has public en-
trances from 22 access street ends and walkovers from private developments. There
will be accesses for handicapped persons at 22d, 36th, and 46th streets. The board- A-r
walk, constructed on top of the storm-surge protective berm, shaped by the U.S. a ,,
Army Corps of Engineers, is part of the reconstructed beach. The 122-foot-wide
boardwalk will have landscaping on both sides to hold the sand in place, provide
some shade, and create an attractive tropical setting for strollers. In addition, park
benches, lighting, and signs will make it easy for many different groups to use the ,
boardwalk. The City of Miami Beach is accelerating the construction and landscap-
ing phase to accommodate anticipated tourist and resident use. The park is an excit-
ing addition to the beach; it shows imagination, demonstrates agency cooperation,
and opens access to the beach for the public.

101

Gables

F41~~~~~4

GULF

OF
Cape Sable

y Largo

amrada
MEXICO '
ocvI
m ta a

o a a0 " D 10 ile

Key West NIS o b

Monroe County
Monroe County, named for President James Monroe, lies on the southwestern tip of
the Florida peninsula. The mainland is undeveloped, and most of it is included in
Everglades National Park. Offshore Monroe County, familiarly known as the Flor-
ida Keys, extends more than 100 miles into the Straits of Florida, which separate
the Atlantic Ocean from the Gulf of Mexico. Most of the county's population
resides on these limestone isles, where boating and diving are popular recreational
activities.
The keys are connected by the Overseas Highway, the "highway that goes to
sea," from Key Largo to Key West, at the southern end of U.S. 1. Originally the
Overseas Highway was the roadbed for the old Florida East Coast Railroad (FEC)
built by Henry Flagler. This dangerous and expensive venture, often called "Flag-
ler's Folly," took a work force of 5,000 men seven years and nine months to com-
plete. Seven hundred of those men lost their lives working on the job that was com-
pleted in 1912 at a cost of $50 million. The railroad operated until a hurricane
destroyed 41 miles of track and trestles on Labor Day 1935. Its replacement, the
Overseas Highway, was opened in 1944.
Located on Cayo Hueso (Bone Key), literally at the end of U.S. 1, lies the
county seat of Monroe County-Key West. The southernmost city in the United
States, it has been occupied by pirates, "wreckers" (those who salvage ships wrecked
on the reefs), spongers from Greece, and Cuban cigar manufacturers. The descen-
dants of the original settlers are called Conchs, a name derived from their liking for
broths, chowders, and fritters made from the muscle of the Queen Conch.
The exotic island city of Key West lures many artists and authors-both the as- controlling navigation of the Gulf of Mexico, these reef islands became a major part
piring and the accomplished. In the late 1920s Ernest Hemingway was enchanted by of the coastal defense system. Fort Jefferson, established in 1846, was dubbed "the
the island. While living there he finished A Farewell to Arms and To Have and Have Gibraltar of the Gulf." It was here that the "Lincoln conspirators" were imprisoned
Not. Later Tennessee Williams wrote The Glass Menagerie and A Streetcar Named and the first naval wireless station was built.
Desire while he lived in Key West. Monroe County's environmentally sensitive lands-the Everglades and the
About 70 miles west of Key West lie the Dry Tortugas. This cluster of coral reefs Keys-have been recognized as areas of critical state concern. The need for protec-
was discovered in 1513 by Ponce de Leon, who named them "las tortugas" (the tion of a unique state resource has brought forth regulations from state and county
turtles) because of their large breeding population of turtles. The lack of fresh water agencies that monitor development. The intention of these regulations is to preserve
brought these islands their later name, Dry Tortugas. Strategically important for the natural beauty of the area for residents and visitors.

103

Indian Key4,%,,,'NI %a~
Rabbit Keymv~

Turk~~~eV eyGAE

Lostmans Key

East Cape * lmno Pelicans
C 2 4 ~Miles North Sandy Key ~ Visitor
Center

Mainland

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Monroe County '0 ' *t*; <

/Y///'/Y/,>'/Y/Y' ' ' /' '
NAME 00 Q~0 . .
Everglades National Park * .-1 *� � * - I
Indian Key * * *� |
Turkey Key ** * ** **
Lostmans Key a a * * *
Graveyard Creek ** * ** ** * * *
Northwest,Middle,and East Cape * * * � * - j * * �
North Sand Key * * ** * I |
Rabbit Key * * * a
Flamingo Visitors Center * - -

Everglades National Park has 1.4 million acres of Graveyard Creek
marshy land covered with tall grasses that support a va- Northwest Cape
riety of birdlife, manatee, the Florida panther, and Middle Cape (Cape Sable)
alligator. East Cape (Cape Sable)
The following are located off Monroe County's Gulf North Sandy Key
coast. They are remote, wilderness beaches accessible North Nest (Eastern Keys Inset)
only by boat. Major use is by overnight campers. Rabbit Key (Eastern Keys Inset)

Indian Key Flamingo Visitors' Center is located at the southern
Rabbit Key end of the 100-mile Wilderness Waterway through the
Turkey Key park's expanse of marsh area to the shallow waters of
Lostmans Key Florida Bay.

105

O . i S ; . : i ; F 6 , toNorth Nest Key4 4,q
tgpX Ra Od

do 0 SHarry Harris County Park

Rabbit Keys vernier

]Plantation Key

Islamorada Windley Key
0 Upper Matecurled
C ounty BarRk Upper Matecumbe Key
,, 1eatable Key G

Layto.on Lower Matecu mbe Ke y

Long Key State Recreation Area

Conch Key 0 1 2 3 Miles

106 Eastern Keys

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

/////'~~~~~~.'S~ / .ZC.o *S'
Monroe County i}

NAME ~
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park 1.1.1 01 lei I I I
Harry Harris County Park 1I101 1|-1 1.101 1I11 I I I I I I 1I1 01 1l1 I
Upper Matecumbe County Park 1|1|1 |1 10101 1.1.1 I I I I I 1*101 1.1 I
Long Key State Recreation Area 101 10191 10101 I1! ! I I .1 1.1 101 I

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has 178 Upper Matecumbe County Park has 200 feet of Clarence Higgs Memorial Beach has 300 feet of de-
nautical square miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds, beach fronting the Altantic Ocean on Upper Mate- veloped Atlantic beach off Atlantic Blvd., Key West.
mangrove swamps, and a 2,640-foot land base with cumbeKey.
recreational facilities. This underwater state park fronts South Beach has 200 feet fronting Hawk Channel at
the Atlantic Ocean on Key Largo, south of Miami on Long Key State Recreation Area has 1.5 miles of the south end of Duval St., Key West.
U.S. 1. passive recreation and camping fronting the Atlantic
Ocean. Abundant wading bird populations inhabit this Fort Jefferson National Monument is an isolated,
Harry Harris County Park is 250 feet of Atlantic area of mangrove lagoons and tropical hardwood ham- primitive beach on Garden Key, Dry Tortugas. Access
beach off Burton Drive in Tavernier, Key Largo. mocks on an ancient coral reef. by boat (docking permitted only at designated loca-
tions not to exceed 2 hours) or seaplane.
George Smathers Beach has 3,945 feet of developed
beach on South Roosevelt Blvd., Key West.

107

of ~MEXICO' qNation alI K ey Degs Refuge
G~tV 0 2O 4 Miles t

4~~~~~~~~~~W (~Q. e a
Q~~~~~~ 5
Fort Jeferson, 7 mie A$.

Fort Jefferson,7mie

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

C, C' '$' ~~~~~~ ~,:� .
Monroe County ' " "

NAME ~~ >Q~~,s t0 O C .~~0~.
Swltlick County Park/Marathon Recreation
Complex 0 0 0 * *
Bahia-Honda State Recreation Area 0 0 0 0 a 0 9 0 0 | *
Little Duck Key County Park * * *. * *
Big Plne Key Park 0 a * - * - 0 1 o *
George Smathers Beach 0 * 0 0 * | * �
Clarence Hlggs Memorial Beach 0 0 0 * - * *l 0 l *
South Beach 0 * * *
Ft. Jefferson National Monument . 0 0 0 * F *

Switlick County Park/Marathon Recreation
Complex has 1,500 feet of beach located at the end of
Sombrero Beach Road on Marathon Key.

Bahia Honda State Recreation Area has 1,548 feet
on Bahia Honda Key. This skeleton of an ancient coral
reef covered by beach, dunes, and mangroves is the
state's southernmost recreation area. Tropical plants and
rare species of birds flourish in the warm climate. a

Little Duck Key County Park has 1,400 feet front-
ing the Atlantic Ocean on Little Duck Key.

Big Pine Key Park is an undeveloped county park _
fronting Florida Bay on Big Pine Key.

109

Wisteria Flamingo Key
Island

Z a
(D

ch ana -3
~~ a W ~ 1, Mile

Key West Mie

Fort Jefferson
National 'Bush Key
Monument

I$ J5 Loong Key

0 0.25 Mile
, eo I I

Fort Jefferson (inset 1)

110

Key West (inset 2)

Coral Reef Parks

The area seaward of Key Largo contains extensive coral reef communities, which These reefs are inhabited by a wide variety of marine organisms. Seagrasses,
flourish in the crystal water. These coral reef areas, the most diverse and productive sponges, and mangroves provide food and a sheltered habitat along the reefs. Color-
of all natural marine communities, provide an abundance of vegetation, wildlife, ful fish such as neon gobies, queen angelfish, and blue chromis can be seen easily in
and marine life to intrigue and delight skindivers and naturalists. To help protect the clear waters; and, for the sportsman, spiny lobster, stone crabs, grouper, and
this aquatic wonderland, three separate refuges have been established. snapper are available in great abundance.
Adjacent to Key Largo in the Atlantic Ocean lies John Pennekamp Coral Reef This area also contains culturally significant landmarks and structures. "Christ
State Park. Extending 21 miles in length and approximately 3 miles into the ocean, of the Deep," a nine-foot bronze statue located in 20 feet of water, symbolizes
it was established as the first underwater state park in the United States in 1961. peace for mankind; it can be seen by divers and snorkelers. The Craysfort Reef
Directly seaward of the park and stretching its end boundaries out to 8.5 miles is Lighthouse, built in 1848 by the U.S. Lighthouse Service, still stands 100 feet
Key Largo Coral Reef Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected area. Since 1975 it above the water, warning ships to beware of hidden underwater dangers.
has served, in conjunction with the state park, to preserve 236 square miles of man- Before lighthouses were established, hundreds of galleons and frigates sank on
grove swamps, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Sharing a common northern border these reefs in storms or high winds. Many others were sent to the bottom or raided
and expanding the protected area by 15 more miles to the north is Biscayne National by pirates, who lurked throughout the keys, taking advantage of the reefs with their
Monument. It encompasses both the Atlantic side of several keys and the Biscayne smaller, more maneuverable sailing vessels. Today many wreck sites in the parks
Bay area to the mainland. These parks combine to provide a twofold panorama, one are marked by floating buoys. Their treasures have long since been plundered, and
above the surface and one below, their cannons, now covered with barnacles, rest as monuments to a past fraught
Coral reefs are made up of calcium deposited predominantly by the marine coral with peril and adventure.
polyp. These creatures secrete a limey substance which becomes a hard outer skele- Boating, fishing, snorkeling, diving, and swimming are popular activities in the
ton around themselves. As they die, succeeding generations build on this founda- parks. Local shops and marinas provide rental equipment for the experienced diver
tion until a reef is established. This process requires clean, warm, circulating sea- and sailor. Park stations can provide detailed guide maps and tours of the reefs with
water with an unchanging salinity. Coral building is enhanced by the sheltering explanations of surrounding plant and wildlife. Because of the delicate balance
landmass of the keys and generally thrives best in waters less than 40 feet in depth. within this marine ecosystem and the 400,000 yearly visitors to it, extra care must
The many varieties of coral exhibit myriad shapes and colors, be taken by all to obey park regulations in order to preserve this resource.

112

SOUTHWEST COAST

0 81
C a) Iade iIS

S699 b~ra

S a nd Key

S~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Teasr Ias.

Pinellas County

Pinellas County, the second smallest in area of Florida's counties, lies predomi- fast in comparison with much of the western coast of Florida because of its un-
nantly on a peninsula in the central Gulf section of the state. This peninsula was limited water access. By 1892, St. Petersburg had become a flourishing commercial
known to the Spaniards as "Punta Pinal," which means "point of pines." Its present and residential area.
name was derived from this original title. Despite its small size, Pinellas County Three of the county's most outstanding coastal features are Caladesi Island, Fort
ranks third in population in the state and, with over 800,000 residents, has by far DeSoto, and The Pier at St. Petersburg. Caladesi Island, one of the few remaining
the greatest population density of all counties. The addition of 3.6 million tourists a undisturbed barrier islands in Florida, lies off the northwestern coast of Pinellas.
year and 100,000 seasonal residents encourages diversity in entertainment and Accessible only by boat, this pristine state park features nature trails, guided walks
recreation. by park rangers, and a 60-foot observation tower, which offers a panoramic view of
The main attraction of Pinellas County is 28 miles of wide, sandy beach that the area. The park opens at 8:00 A.M. daily, and ferry service is available from
extends the length of the Gulf of Mexico shoreline including offshore barrier is- Honeymoon Island State Park to the north.
lands, some of which remain in a natural state. Though it was divided into numer- At the southern tip of the county lies Fort DeSoto Park, a group of five connected
ous municipalities and heavily developed, proper planning includes scores of state, barrier islands. The park has over 900 acres and 7 miles of beachfront. Owned and
county, and city parks. Many provide the public with beach access. Gulf Boulevard operated by the county, the area has been dedicated as a bird, animal, and plant
stretches the length of the islands, while Bayfront Boulevard skirts parts of the pen- sanctuary and is open daily until dark. A past interwoven with historical signifi-
insula's coast. Countless streets off these roads also provide limited beach access to cance, including Fort DeSoto, gives the area added dimension. Considerable park-
the visitor as do parks and exhibits on the eastern, bayfront side of the county. ing, fishing, camping, and picnicking facilities are available.
The first recorded explorer of the county was Panfilo de Narvaez in 1528. A long In Tampa Bay off St. Petersburg lies The Pier. Actually the culmination of sev-
succession of Hispanic explorers and pirates followed. Not until 1823 was the first eral piers built over the last century, the present facility is owned by the City of St.
permanent settlement established. Count Odet Phillipe, formerly a physician in Petersburg. It includes a recreation center and reflects an international flavor featur-
Napoleon's army, is credited not only with founding this settlement but also with ing ethnic gift shops, crafts, and cafds. Unique architecture and style highlight this
introducing the grapefruit tree to Florida. Population growth on the peninsula was hub of the city's two-mile waterfront district.

115

Anclote K\(i4

H-oward r
F19

Sunset Baec

o i 2 3 Miles

Ta pon Jrings

Garden Is.

Indian Bluff Is. WelSrngs

Honemoo IsandHoneymoon Isle
State Park

~~~~~~~~DunedinBeh

Caladesildes Is ln

Stlae is Park

IN~~~~~~~~~~~~~~SB

~~7 ~ Clearwater Beach

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ENAIOMEN

NORTHERN DISTRICT
Anclote Key X � i i i
Howard County Park *� * -������0 - - -10 | *� * 0
Sunset Beach * � � * i � 0�
Honeymoon Island State Park * - - - 0 - a -� -0 � * 0 *-
Duned in Beach � n j 0 0�
Caladesi Island State Park � 0 �0 -0 - - - -- -0 C * 0 O
Clearwater Be ach Island � * 0 0 * 0 0
Mandalay P ark 0 a 6 * 6 0 * � 0 0
Clearwater Beach Park ** * *

Anclote Key is an undeveloped state recreation area in Honeymoon Island State Park has over 10,000 feet Clearwater Beach Island lies between Clearwater
the Gulf of Mexico 3 miles off the Tarpon Springs of beachfront with dune walkovers and group facilities. Beach and the Gulf of Mexico and is connected to the
mainland. The 3,000-foot beach is not accessible by AccessisviaS.R. 586westoverDunedinCauseway. No Clearwater central business district by Memorial Cause-
land. alcohol allowed. way (S.R. 60). It is a developed beach with lifeguards.
Additional access to the gulfside off Mandalay Ave.
Howar d County Park has 155 developed acres avail- Dunedin Beach is an undeveloped beach on Honey- north on Kendall St., Avalon St., Hellwood St., Glen-
able for offshore recreation. It is connected to the moon Island r eached by ta king CurlewRd. to Causeway dal e St., Idlewild St., and Cambria St.; gulfside off El-
mainland by a mile-long cau seway. Access is a half Blvd. dorado Av. on Bohemia Cir. S., Mango St., Bohemia
mile north of Keystone Rd. (S.R. 582) on Florida Ave. Cir., Gardenia St., Aurel St., and Juniper St.; and
N. in Tarpon Springs. No alcohol allowed. Group and Caladesi Island State Park may be reached only by channelside on Mandalay Ave., Somerset St., and As-
bicycle facilities. boat. There is ferry service from the pier at Honey- ter St.
moon Island State Park to the north in Dunedin. It has
Sunset Beach is an undeveloped beach with a munici- 2 miles of developed beach with group facilities. No Mandalay Park has 500 feet of city-owned, devel-
pal pier located in Tarpon Springs at the end of Gulf alcohol allowed. oped beachfront. Access is gulfside off Mandalay Ave.
Rd. W. (S.R. 582). a half mile north of S.R. 60 (Memorial Causeway) on
Clearwater Beach Island.

Clearwater Beach Park is a developed beach (ap-
proximately a half mile long) with lifeguards, located
on the south end of Clearwater Beach Island off Gulf-
view Blvd. No alcohol allowed. Fishing pier and bicy-
cle facilities.

117

Clearwater Harbor

0119 *%.0 19-1 04 4.

.5'

0 0.~~~~~5 Mile

Clearwater Beach (inset 1)

Clearwater Beach

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

0" .' 0c �'. 3:

Pinellas County +. * .0 C' 4/ OQ 0 j/ C' CC

NAME 'C
NORTH CENTRAL DISTRICT
Sand Key County Park (not open)
S e~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I I e a I rI h I r I s I e a I h A cI
Belleair Shores Beach Access I I I I I I I@ I|| | | III I 1 .I 1 ||
Indian Rocks Beach 1l0 11 | | 10 |1 1 [I I 1[ I @ I
Indian Shores Beach Access 1 I i 111 I 1 O I I I I - 1 I Ii

): ; I; :~C I >' Sand Key County Park has 2,100 feet of beachfront
t jess[~ temporarily closed (1984) for development. Access on
4 ~ ~ ~ ~so ~:, 8590l ': .... Clearwater Beach Island is south on S.R. 699 about 1.5
Sand Key _ C9 se miles from Memorial Causeway (S.R. 60). Local park-
j�~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ JC / S g 9g ing is very limited.

C l ear t3 ,& / Belleair Shores Beach Access off N. Gulf Shore
1 X~~~A, g g 2 | gg ~~~~~Blvd. (S.R. 699) on 7th St., 13th St., and 19th St. Lo-
cal parking is unavailable.

ir ier k'e*~ h
ores ?, ' "":" ': *~:~� - �Indian Rocks Beach has 3 miles of developed beach
and is along N. Gulf Shore Blvd. (S.R. 699) at 27th
Ave. through 15th Ave., 12th, 10th, and 8th through 2d
avenues.

,�":s:~ 4' . ... ~,*;� ::Indian Shores Beach Access is an undeveloped
/ .3 ,':~:*m E s~ ;� beach along S.R. 699 (Gulf Blvd.) at 186th, 188th,
S595'+"'< i ~*, ~ 189th, 190th, 193d, 195th, 197th, 198th, 199th, and
rt:: :;�� ,>j200th streets.

n so > 69

& Seminole ::'/:> ..i;D aic 119

North-central district

0 0~~~~~.5 Mileo~7.cbAt l 2' b

Belleair Beachllndian Rocks Beach (inset 2)

Central district~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ua

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Pinellas County e p/

NAME ~~qq0 .'~~..~~
CENTRAL DISTRICT
Redington Shores County Park *0 0 - 0 * *
North Redington Beach Access * 0 0 0 * |
Redington Shores Beach * * | 0
Archibald Memorial Beach 0 - 0� 0 0 0 0 0
Madeira Beach Access * * i *
Madeira Beach County Park * 0 * *|- � .
J o h n s Pass B e a c h a n d P a r k � � * ** 0
Treasure Island Beach Access * 1 * 0
Treasure Island Beach * � * * *

Redington Shores County Park is on Gulf Blvd. Archibald Memorial Beach has 5.5 acres of devel- Treasure Island Beach Access lies north of St. Pe-
(S.R. 699) in Redington Shores at 182d Ave. It has oped recreation area on the Gulf. Group facilities. tersburg Beach on S.R. 699. There are 45 dune walk-
about 50 feet of undeveloped beach. No alcohol Marked access is off S.R. 699 about 0.2 mile north of overs and street ends giving access to the gulfside
allowed. WelchCauseway. beach between 77th Ave. and 127th Ave. and 20 street
ends provide bayside beach access. Three (123d Ave.,
North Redington Beach Access is south of Red- Madeira Beach Access is 1.5 miles of undeveloped 100th Ave., and 94th Ave.) have boat ramps. Night ac-
ington Shores on S.R. 699. Public walkways to the gulf beachfront on Gulf Blvd. in Madeira Beach (S.R. 699) cess prohibited (1-5 A.M.).
are at 173d Ave., between lots 3 and 4, at 171st Ave., at at 148th St., 142d St., 141st St., and 137th St. through
170th Ave., and at Bath Club Cir. 129th St. Treasure Island Beach has 0.7 mile on the Gulf of
Mexico developed for recreation and has lifeguards.
Redington Shores Beach is a 350-foot-long devel- Madeira Beach County Park is a half mile south of There is access along Gulf Blvd. (S.R. 699) in Trea-
oped beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Access is via Gulf Welch Causeway on S.R. 699. This park has 300 feet sure Island.
Blvd. (S.R. 699) on 183d Tr. N., 183d St., Coral St., of developed beach frontage.
Beach St., Atoll St., and 178th St. through 174th Tr.
No alcohol allowed. Johns Pass Beach and Park lies 1.5 miles south of
Madeira Beach on S.R. 699. It is developed with dune
Redington Shores Beach Access is off S.R. 699 at walkovers to 500 feet of beachfront and a fishing pier.
155th Ave. in Redington Beach. No alcohol allowed. No alcohol allowed.

/,~~~~ ~~121

'�' 184th Ave. 0.5 Mile
183rd Ave

R edington Shores
Cedington Sh re Archibald Memorial Beach
County Park;

Coral Ave. ed on
Beach Ave.
Atoll Ave. Bayshore Dr.
178th Ave.
T~~el~~~ trh. Ave ~~~~148th Ave.
177th Terr W.. Sho A
176th Tr.
177th Ave. Madeira Beach Park
176th Tr.
176th Ave.
175th Ave. 142nd Ave.
141st Ave.
174th Ave.
173rd Ave.
Lot 3

171st Ave. 137th Ave
Lot 4 i
170th Ave..
~ ~ ~~~~~~~136th Ave.!
ledin 135th Ave.'
Bath Club Cir.
135th ecit
Redingtona~~~~133rd Ba(iAve.

132nd ,13t
--------- 131st Ave.

130th Ave.

129th Ave.

Johns Pass Beach Park
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~hn s�5

Madeira Beach (inset 4)
0 a%*%~'5~.25 Mile

Redington Beach (inset 3)

Pass

127th Ave
126th Ave.
125th Ave.
123rd Ave. t :
122nd Ave.
121st Ave. ,
'"~;~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-
120th Ave :
119th Ave.

--X7

Treasure Island Beach

TreaureIsland Avnetc) Wind~, s
' 1

100 th Ave. i! :!
99th Ave.
97th Ave. Su

Treasure Island (inset 5) Wind surfing
i a~~~~~12

Treasure E
Island Park, ~
Upham Beach
Ciega Bay
55th Ave.
52nd Ave.-
51st. Avea tersburg Beach

37th Ave.

Pass-a-Grille Beach

Y e

Wildlife Refuge

Mullet Key/Ft. DeSoto BAY
0
ShPark

Southern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Pinellas County ~40~ ~o'~0"

NAME 4 ~OOq~Q~
SOUTHERN DISTRICT I F I I I I
Treasure IsIand Park I IF 0 ! : Io

Pass-a-Grille Beach Park I I FOFOF F F. It I r g e F F n i a I B l a a h

M ullIet K e yF t. D eS otoa C ou n ty P a rk a eeee ..O..... oe

Upham Be ach is 9 acres of developed beach on Long
Key. Across the channel lies Treasure Island Park.
However, access is through St. Petersburg Beach S.R.
A19A to 71st Ave. W. No alcohol allowed.

St. Petersburg Municipal Beach is developed with - 1 -
street access from 80th St. to 24th St. off Gulf Blvd.
and S.R. A19A.

Pass-a-Grille Beach Park has 5,200 feet of gulf-
front with unlimited access.

Mullet Key/Ft. DeSoto Park is comprised of five is-
lands, in all about 900 acres with 7 miles of waterfront.
Access is via the Pinellas Bayway (S.R. 679). This is a
well-developed recreation area, as well as a bird, plant,
and animal sanctuary and a historic area. Overnight
camping, group and bicycle facilities, and a fishing
pier. No alcohol allowed.

Clearwater Beach
125

Manatee

The West Indian Manatee, Trichechus manatus, is one of the state's most endan-
gered species. A distant cousin to the elephant, these marine mammals can measure
15 feet in length and weigh over a ton. Large and gentle, they have no natural ene-
mies other than man.
The manatee is a mammal: it breathes air, bears its young alive, has hair, and is
warm-blooded. It feeds on vegetation in shallow waters near the coast, helping to
clear weeds in congested areas. It does not bite but eats by raking plants into its
mouth with bristles on its toothless lip pads. Once inside, food is ground up on rear
molars and swallowed.
During the winter months when water temperatures drop below the level man-
atees can tolerate, they congregate around warm-water springs and warm-water dis-
charge of power plants along the coast. Such areas are carefully marked with signs
describing them as manatee refuges and urging boats to proceed with caution.
At one time herds of manatees roamed the waters of the southeastern United
States. Today their population has dwindled to about a thousand. In 1982 over 120
Of the threatened "sea cows" were killed or died of natural causes. A leading cause
of death is collision with motor boats. Most live manatees bear scars on their backs
from propeller blades. These deaths, coupled with a slow reproductive rate because
of a year pregnancy period, have hampered efforts to enlarge the population. They
have been protected by the State of Florida since 1893. Today, manatees are pro-
tected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species
Act of 1973.
Currently, efforts are under way to learn more about the life cycle and behavior
of the manatee. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is establishing a research center
for the continued study of the species. Its effort, along with significant private sup-
port, may herald a reversal of the manatees' fate.

126

Manatee County

Named after the large "sea cows" that frequent its waters, Manatee County is lo-
cated on the western Gulf coast halfway along the Florida peninsula. The majority
of its population of 150,000 live in the Bradenton area or on the highly developed
barrier islands fronting the Gulf of Mexico. Public access to the islands is some-
what limited: only two roads to the mainland and one road connecting Longboat and Hi bruh�C.ut
TefrtvstrtMAnnate ContMaspriap theySans. xlrrPniod
TefrtvstrtManaeContwas perhap theySansh exlo19Pnl d e
Narvaez in 1528. But the one best remembered is Hernando De Soto, who landed -r 8 5 < < F O
on Terra Cecia Island in 1539. From here his band of soldiers began their four-year
trek northward through Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Arkansas in an ill-
fated search for gold. De Soto's expedition, which included over 700 men, was the
first major European penetration into the southern United States.7
Although De Soto and most of his men eventually perished on the epic march,
the information they supplied about the land and people they encountered stimu-0
lated further Spanish and English exploration. To commemorate the landing and
expedition of De Soto, a national memorial was established. Located on Tampa Bay
off S .R. 64, the park provides insights into sixteenth-century life and the hardships
of the conquistadors by a nature trail, live demonstrations, and visual aids.
After the Spanish left the area, hundreds of years passed with little traffic other
than pirates and fishing boats. In 1841 the area was opened for homesteading, and
settlers soon colonized the coast. Bradenton grew quickly; the county itself was le- 08arasota County
gally formed in 1855. Many early settlers established large plantations for growing 90Mi
and processing sugarcane for export to the north, The John Gamble Mansion, the
home of one of the first settlers in Manatee County, is the oldest building on the
west coast of Florida and the only Confederate shrine in the state. It is open from
9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. daily.
Today Manatee County's economy is based on a variety of industries. Agricul-
ture and cattle remain important, and commercial fishing also contributes to eco-
nomic growth. The development of deep-water Port Manatee on the north coast is
planned to attract future commerce to this growing area.
All Manatee County beaches may be reached from Interstate 75 or U.S. 41 by
taking either Manatee Ave. (S.R. 64) or Cortez Road (S.R. 684). Both terminate on
Gulf Drive, which runs north-south along the length of the islands. Beach access is
provided by numerous street ends, but parking is limited. More public access can be
found at Bayfront Park on the northern tip of Anna Maria Key, Manatee County
Beach off Manatee Ave., and Coquina Public Beach at the southern end of the island.

127

~~aV

to~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

0 1 Mile
128
Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Manatee County * v oo00,,:9/ ,,

NAME ~9 9
NORTHERN DISTRICT
Anna Maria Beach *0 0 0 0 0 *
Bayfront Park 0 * * * * *
Holmes Beach * * 0 * * *
CENTRAL DISTRICT
Manatee County Beach 0 *S 0 * 0 0 0 * 0 * * �
Palma Sola Causeway a * * * * * * e
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Cortez Beach * *@ * * * * * * * * 0 0 0
Coquina Beach 0 * * * * * * * * * * * 0 * *
Beer Can Island * * * * **
Longboat Key Beach Access * * * 0 * * 0

Anna Maria Beach, on the north point of Anna Ma- Manatee Co. Beach has 900 feet of developed beach Coquina Beach has over 5,000 feet of developed
ria Island, has 3 acres of undeveloped beach with ac- fronting the Gulf of Mexico. Marked access is at the beach on the Gulf of Mexico with a boat ramp to
cess from private residential street ends facing the intersection of Gulf Dr. (S.R. 789) and 40th St. (S.R. Sarasota Bay. Access is off Gulf Dr. (S.R. 789) at the
Gulf. Bayside fishing piers are on Alamanda and Pine 64) in the city of Holmes Beach. It has 120 parking southern end of Anna Maria Island, about one mile
Ave. No alcohol allowed. places. south of S.R. 684 (5th St. N.) in the City of Bradenton
Beach. A catamaran launch site and fishing groin are
Bayfront Park has 1,000 feet of beach along Tampa Palma Sola Causeway, the Manatee Ave. (S.R. 64) off to the right before the bridge over Longboat Pass is
Bay. Located in the city of Anna Maria, this developed crossing of Palma Sola Bay, has access to 3,000 feet of crossed. Parking for 1,350 vehicles.
park with 150 parking places can be reached off Bay developed beach on both sides and at each end of the
Blvd. causeway. Beer Can Island has 2,000 feet of undeveloped beach
on the northern end of Longboat Key. Access to the
Holmes Beach runs 14,400 feet along the Gulf of Cortez Beach has 140 feet of undeveloped beach hooked-spit beach is by walking north from the street
Mexico. It is reached off Gulf Dr. (S.R. 789) from reached off Gulf Dr. (S.R. 789) between 5th and 13th end of N. Shore Rd. off the Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Beach Ave. to 27th St. Soundside boat ramp is located streets, fronting the Gulf of Mexico in Bradenton
at Anna Maria Bridge (S.R. 641/Manatee Ave.). Beach. Longboat Key Beach Access extends along the bar-
rier island south from N. Shore Rd. to the county line.
Access to the undeveloped beach is from residential
street ends: Jay, Coral, Palmetto, Seabreeze, Broadway,
and Gulfside Rd.

129

Bean Pt.Il

0 0~~~~.5 Mile

Sea Grape 'I
Lane

Sprucc B~~~~~~~ayfront
Fir ~~~~Park
coconut

Magnolia 1 ~

Willow__

Mangrove

ParK~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ar aln

Anna MariaBeach/omsBah(nesInd2

130~~~~~hl

i s at a V1

Sister 04
Milla r

B a

X so a,%

Southern dffistrict

Common bay Scallop . - -

131

5th St.S.
6th St.S. If
7th St. S.
8th St. S. :
9th St. S.
loth St. S. a /I
11th St.S.
12th St. S. 7
13th St. S. i

Coquina
Leffis Key

Public

Beach "

Longboat Key

Isla nd

Joy
Coral
Palmetto
Seabreeze (
Broadway

.Gulfs Mile

Gulfside Rd.

Bradenton Beach/Long Beach (inset 3)

Cortez Bridge

1' C
yV 0~ tt, pbn as

*0. 0 0~~~~~~~~~~.5 Mile

Holmes Beach/Bradenton Beach

Marine Mannial Protection Act of 1972
Under the provisions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, there is a moratorium, Complete information may be obtained from Director, National Marine Fish-
with certain limited exceptions, on the taking and importation of marine mammals eries Service, Washington, DC 20235, and from Regional Director, Southeast Re-
and marine mammal parts and products. These animals include whales, dolphins, gion, Duval Building, 9450 Gandy Boulevard, St. Petersburg, FL 33702.
porpoises, seals, sea lions, walruses, and polar bears and any parts or products
made from these animals such as skins, furs, teeth, bones, and oil. Such items will
be subject to seizure by agents of the U.S. Government.

133

Artificial Reefs

The coastal waters of Florida have long been renowned for the abundance and vari-
ety of sport fish. Recognizing this, the state, in cooperation with federal and county
authorities and local universities, has developed a comprehensive system of ar-
tificial reefs that is unparalleled in the United States. Over 150 artificial reefs have
been established along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts to supplement natural reef areas
and boost fish populations.
The value of artificial reefs as an attraction for fish has long been appreciated.
The first artificial reefs were built in the 1700s by commercial fishermen in Japan.
Constructed of bamboo lashed into a frame, they were weighted and sunk in 120
feet of water. The experiment was so successful it has been duplicated repeatedly
since that time.
In South Carolina during the 1860s artificial reefs were first introduced in Amer-
ica. Oak and pine logs were used there; concrete modules were employed in New
York in 1916 and abandoned vessels sunk off Cape May, New Jersey, in 1935.
As Florida's reef program expanded, research was initiated on reef behavior in
order to maximize potential benefits. Much knowledge has been obtained, thus im-
proving site selection and providing a more attractive habitat to many species. This
information has led to the proliferation of many effective artificial reefs along the
state's coasts.
These reefs are constructed of a variety of inexpensive, discarded materials:
abandoned ships, baled tires, building rubble, concrete culverts, clay pipe, quarry
rock, and abandoned oil rigs have all been used. These materials, when spread over
several acres of normally sandy, flat sea bottom, provide several advantages. First,
they supply a base on which barnacles, algae, and many tiny aquatic plants can
grow. In turn, the small fish that forage on these specimens are afforded protection
by the irregular topography of the reef structure. Finally, the larger sport fish that
anglers pursue are attracted by their bountiful smaller counterparts, and an aquatic
food chain is established. Studies show these reefs are not only more effective
producers than the regular sea bottom but are even more productive than most natu-
ral reefs.
Besides having superior fish-attracting abilities, artificial reefs are generally
located within a few miles of shore and are thus accessible to small boats and avail-
able for wide public use. They are marked by large buoys painted in lateral 6-inch-
wide white and international orange stripes; local marinas and bait shops can
provide directions to the reefs in the area one wishes to fish. Though the Pinellas
County area leads the state with its active reef program, anywhere there is coastline
a productive reef will be found close by.

134

Sarasota County
Sarasota County borders the Gulf of Mexico with a chain of peninsulas and barrier ~i > sft
islands. Along these waters the first county inhabitants lived off the Gulf's bounty. IA5 M' yr~%
Scattered oyster-shell mounds remind us of their early presence. S78 I wM
After the Spaniards had driven the Indians inland in the late iSO0s, Sarasota ~~at~,jT
remained uninhabited. During the eighteenth century Cuban and Spanish fish campsQ otI
dotted the islands. The first permanent American settlers came from Georgia in
1842, and in 1885 they were joined by Scottish colonists who helped found Sarasota.87
The area was popularized in the early twentieth century by Mrs. Potter (Bertha) >
Palmer, a wealthy Chicagoan. Taken with the vista and gently lapping bays, she S78 i
accumulated thousands of acres between Venice and Sarasota. She also broughtI
many friends to the area who built vacation homes and invested in cultural luxuries.x
Growth was slow and steady after the depression, with a resulting tranquil atmo-
sphere accompanied by cultural refinements usually found only in larger cities.
The county's coastline begins in the north at Manatee County, with which it
shares the City of Longboat Key. Beaches are typified by soft, white sands, and in
some areas seawalls and groins have been constructed. Many private homes, clubs, VPRGe ><I
and condominiums on the beach minimize public access. Longboat Key is con-
nected to Lido Key by New Pass Bridge, which lies directly west of Sarasota and
has several public beaches. Lido Key may also be reached from the mainland via
John Ringling Causeway. To the south, separated by Big Sarasota Pass, lies Siesta
Key, a large barrier island. Numerous public beaches, most with supporting facili-
ties, dot its shoreline. Midnight Pass, the only "wild" or unmaintained pass along 1- 2 0 Mi
the coast, separates Siesta Key from its long, thin neighbor to the south, Casey Key.
This, the most remote of Sarasota's keys, is reached at Blackburn Point or Nokomis
Beach. Like all beaches in the county, it is well known for shell and fossilized-
shark-tooth collecting. many aquatic species integral to the Gulf's food chain. Throughout these bays are
Directly south across Venice Inlet is the lovely City of Venice, patterned after its many tiny mangrove islands and shallows.
namesake in Italy. It has a large, well-maintained public beach and a long, concrete Besides the year-round semitropical climate and miles of beautiful beaches,
fishing pier. Sarasota has much to offer the vacationing visitor, including the world-famous
Further south, extending to Charlotte County, the Manasota Peninsula boasts Ringling Museum and the Circus Hall of Fame. Bellm Cars and Music of Yesterday
three public beaches and may be entered at Manasota Beach. Between the peninsula feature more than 70 classic old cars and the world's greatest collection of music
and mainland is Lemon Bay which, along with Sarasota and Little Sarasota bays to boxes. The Performing Arts Center, designed by Taliesin architects of the Frank
the north, provides a calm, estuarine habitat. The numerous grassbeds are home to Lloyd Wright School, is noted for its beauty.

135

C,'~~~~~~~~~~~~~~0
0~~~~~~~~~~ 0

Longboat Key S8

North Lido Beach
Lido Beach
South Lido Beach

INSET - 2 Buttonwood Dr.,

Stickney Point Roa

2 Miles Point 0' Rock Neptune IAle.

* ~ ~ ~ ~ M i l e s Turtle BaIsesc Rd.

Northern district Longboat Key (inset 1)

Dolphin

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Lido Beach S
South Lido Beach 0 *
Siesta Key Beach *
Siesta Key Beach Park * *
Turtle Beach * 0 0 * *

Longboat Key Beaches are 3.75 miles northwest of South Lido Beach is 1,000 feet long and is devel- Siesta Key Beach Park, almost � mile long, is de-
Lido Key along S.R. 789 (Gulf of Mexico Dr.). Access oped. It has lifeguards Memorial Day to Labor Day. It veloped and has lifeguards. It is along south side of
is via Triton and Mayfield and the south ends of Bay is 1.5 miles southeast of Harding Cir.: go southeast on Beach Rd. west of Midnight Pass Rd. intersection.
Isles Rd., Neptune Ave., and Buttonwood Dr. Alcohol South Blvd. to Taft Dr., right one block on Taft Dr.,
is not permitted at these accesses. Parking is very left on Benjamin Franklin to end of road. Night access Turtle Beach, slightly less than a quarter mile long, is
limited. prohibited. developed and has seasonal lifeguards (Memorial Day
to Labor Day). It is at the south end of Siesta Key, 2.5
North Lido Beach is not highly developed. It is more Siesta Key Beach accesses, with one exception, are miles south of Stickney Point Rd. on Midnight Pass
than 3,000 feet long on the west side of West Way Dr., street endings, and most are between Shell Rd. on the Rd. (S.R. 789). Turn right on Turtle Beach Rd. Public
a quarter mile west of John Ringling at the north end of north and Calle de Invierno on the south. Shell Rd. is 1 transportation available.
Lido Key. Other access available from southwest side block north of intersection of Midnight Pass Rd. (S.R.
of Harding Cir.: go southwest 2 blocks to N. Polk Dr., 789) and Higel Ave. Go north on Higel one block to
turn right for 3 blocks, then left on Emerson Dr. North Shell Rd. and turn left. Night access prohibited. Stick-
Lido Beach is connected to Lido Beach. Parking is ney Point Rd. access is at Gulf end of Old Stickney
very limited. Point Rd., half a block south of new road end. Point of
Rocks Rd. access is along Gulf side of both that road
Lido Beach is 3,000 feet long; it has lifeguards 9:00 and Point of Rocks Cir.: go south 6 blocks from Stick-
A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and a 25-meter pool and is devel- ney Point Rd. on Midnight Pass Rd. (S.R. 789) and
oped. The beach is 2.5 blocks southwest of Harding turn right on Point of Rocks Rd.
Cir.: turn left along Benjamin Franklin.

137

Shell Rd.

Avenida Messina

Columbus Blvd.
Avenida Navarr
Ocean Blvd.
Calle de la Siesta v
Plaza de las Palmas
Calle de Invi erno

Siesta Key Beach Park

o 1 Mile

Siesta Key (inset 2)

138

Sarasota and Lido Keyv

Palmer Point

Casey Key

(p~~~~.

Nokomis Beach
North Jetty Park
Venice Inlet

Venice Municipal Beach ,

Brohard Park F

Caspersen Park ;Veie
�~~~~~

Manasota Beac

Manasota Key
?-??-~~~~~~~~~~~~~-

Blind Pass Beachl
I n d i ~~a n * '
Indian Mounds Park Englwoo

Treasure hunting
Southern district

140

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Sarasota County /o / . />0

Palmer Point is located at the north end of Casey Key; Venice Municipal Beach, 600 feet long, is developed Manasota Beach, a quarter mile long, is developed
take S.R. 789 west from S.R. 45, north on beach road. and has lifeguards. It is 0.9 mile west of U.S. 41 on and has lifeguards year-round. It is on Manasota Key at
Venice Ave. W. at Gulf. west end of Manasota Bridge.
Nokomis Beach is a developed, lifeguarded beach 0.2
mile long. It includes beaches on the Gulf and is one Brohard and Caspersen Park Beaches are devel- Blind Pass Beach, 2,000 feet long, is undeveloped. It
mile west of the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) on S.R. 789 oped and occupy 3 miles between Venice Municipal is 3.6 miles south of Manasota Bridge and fronts both
at intersection of Casey Key Rd. Airport and the Intracoastal Waterway and Gulf. The Lemon Bay and the Gulf.
north end of these connected beaches is 1.5 miles south
North Jetty Park, almost 0.2 miles long, is devel- of Venice Ave. W. on Harbor Dr. S. Several unpaved Indian Mounds Park, named for a historic Indian
oped and has lifeguards. It also fronts both Gulf and roads and Harbor Dr. S. provide access to both. Ap- mound, has 1,100 feet on Lemon Bay and is devel-
bay and is 0.6 mile south of S.R. 789 on Casey Key proximately 225 parking spaces. oped. It is east of Winson St. and a third of a mile
Rd. at sound end of key. One of the Gulf's best suifing south of S.R. 775A. Follow park signs.
beaches.

141

Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis)

The brown pelican is a well-known coastal bird in Florida. It is found irsaltwater
areas and, on very rare occasions, in freshwater regions. Large groups of the birds
can be found nesting on small coastal islands and sitting on top of docks and pilings
and near fishing boats.
Easily identified by the pouch under the bill, which gave rise to the saying "its
beak can hold more than its belly," the bird's brown color, large size, and webbed
feet are also distinguishing features. A close relative, the white pelican, is larger in
size. It resides in Florida during the fall, winter, and spring and travels elsewhere to
nest.
The brown pelican's primary nesting season is spring and early summer in most
of Florida. In the Florida Keys it will nest anytime. Pelicans select one mate and
remain together during their lives. Usually three eggs are laid in one season.
Saltwater fish found at the surface or in shallow water provide its primary food
source. Fish remains thrown overboard by commercial fishing boats and handouts
by tourists and sport fishermen are quickly scooped up in the birds' pouches. Their
eagerness often entangles pelicans in fishing lines and hooks. Fishermen should
take precautions to prevent the entanglement of this large bird.
Brown pelican populations in North America have been reduced significantly in
the past ten years because of DDT contamination and other factors. When the birds
have high levels of DDT compounds the eggs have shells too thin to hatch. This
reproductive rate reduction could eventually lead to the extinction of the species.
Fortunately in Florida, pelican eggs have not become too thin, and reproduction
rates appear to be normal at this time. Florida's pelican population is estimated to
be 20,000. The Florida Game Management Division has been studying the species
for five years in the hope that this distinctive coastal bird will continue to share the
shoreline.

142

Charlotte County
Charlotte County is named for Charlotte Harbor, which intrudes into the county
mainland and is the largest indentation in the southwest Florida coast. The name is
said to honor the wife of King George 1II, Charlotte Sophia. Ponce de Leon re-
turned to the New World (La Florida) in 1521 as a governor appointed by the King
of Spain. Accompanied by two ships of soldiers, de Leon selected Charlotte Harbore u
as his seat of government to provide a base from which he could continue his search
for the elusive Fountain of Youth. Though this outpost lasted only five months it
opened the door for future settlements in the New World.-J
In 1539, Hernando De Soto came to La Florida as Spain's new governor. He set
forth from Seville with 10 ships and 700 men and the expectation of conquering ther
hidden wealth of the new land, as he had in his conquest of Peru. Early maps of La
Florida drawn by de Lisle (ca. 1781) show that De Soto landed at Charlotte Harbor,
although some historians believe the site was Fort Myers. A federal committee in
the 1930s traced the expedition to a point west of Bradenton. On this site, at the �~
mouth of the Manatee River on Tampa Bay, the De Soto National Memorial has S
been designated with a monument bearing the inscription that "Near here, Her-
nando De Soto and His Men landed May 30, 1539, and Began the March West to
the Mississippi River"-a trip that took four years.
Charlotte County was established in 1921 as Florida's fifty-third county. Al-
though only 17 miles north to south, it has over 120 miles of coastline. The county
seat, Punta Gorda, lies at the mouth of the Peace River which empties into Charlotte
Harbor. popular recreational activities in the area. The best known sport fish is the Silver
Punta Gorda, meaning "Broad Point" in Spanish, was the early terminus of the King Tarpon (May to September). Other game fish are snook and tarpon.
railroad serving the southwest Gulf coast. Directly on the sparkling blue waters of Port Charlotte, two miles north of Punta Gorda, is one of the largest retirement
Charlotte Harbor, this subtropical city with gently waving palms and exotic foliage city complexes in Florida. Even though the county has five miles of barrier islands
has an enchanting feel of peace and security, but it is also a growing and progressive situated between the Gulf of Mexico and Lemon Bay, beach access is very limited.
city. Towering palms line its streets, and the waterfront district combines shopping, Englewood Beach and Port Charlotte Beach State Park at the south end of Manasota
boating, and park complexes to serve many needs. Due to the prime location on the Key are the only county public coastal beaches. The remaining barrier islands are
harbor, surrounded by miles of rivers, creeks, and canals, fishing is one of the most undeveloped and inaccessible by land.

143

-n~~ ~~~~ Englewood Beach is developed with 600 feet of
coastline, situated between Lemon Bay and the Gulf of
NIt ~~~~~ ~ ~ ;: Mexico on Manasota Key. Access is via S.R. 776 from
the mainland. No alcohol allowed.

S77~~hS 7 7~ Port Charlotte Beach Park has 25 acres south of
II ~ ~ Englewood Beach at the southern end of Manasota
Key. The only access to this undeveloped beach is S.R.
776.
Englewood Beach
ngeoO Bec � Don Pedro Island complex is an undeveloped beach
t3 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~ on the barrier island that can be reached only by boat.

Port Charlotte Beach Par

Don Pedro Island Complex

I 1 Mile ei

No rthern district

144

0 1 Mile

Southern district 145

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Charlotte County � ,

NAME
Englewood Beach 101 Iol*I*I -|oI II eeL1010 1l1 I 1o1 l11 I ll1
Port Charlotte Beach Park |*II* |||II||IIIIIIII
Port Chalotte Bech ParkI I I I I I 01 I01 I I I I I I I I01 I,01 I01 I
Don Pedro Isaland Complex 11 I0lIO* 1** loelle ! I 10101 I 11

Florida Bicycle Laws

Vehicles with a seat height of 25 inches or more from the ground are legally in- Bicyclists will have the full legal responsibilities and protection of vehicle opera-
cluded in the definition of bicycle. This excludes toy sidewalk bikes and includes tors. This includes obedience to traffic laws.
adult three-wheelers.
Bicyclists are required to ride with the flow of traffic on the right portion of the
Every bicycle in use between sunset and sunrise shall be equipped with lights or roadway. This permits the bicyclist to leave the right edge and enter the traffic lane
reflectors. to avoid hazards.
Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way highway with two or more marked Bicyclists may not impede normal traffic flow and they are restricted to a single lane
traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as on multiple-laned highways. The law removes the requirement that bicyclists use all
practicable. bike paths adjacent to roadways.
A person propelling a vehicle by human power upon and along a sidewalk, or across Bicyclists are permitted a new left-turn option of riding along the right portion of
a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall have all the rights and duties appli- the roadway to the far side of the intersection, stopping, and then proceeding with
cable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances. the new traffic when the traffic signal changes, similar to turns made by pedestrians.
No bicycle shall be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for
which it is designed, except an adult rider may carry a child securely attached to his
or her person in a backpack or sling.

146

West Coast Intracoastal Waterway

Beginning at the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River in Lee County, the West Coast The waterway is relatively well protected from high winds and rough water; the
Intracoastal Waterway follows a winding course through channels, bays, harbors, only open water is Charlotte Harbor and San Carls Bay. A rich and varied birdlife
and sounds northward toward the Anclote River west of Tarpon Springs. The water- flourishes along the channel waters-brown and white pelicans, cormorants, her-
way is federally maintained to a depth of 9 feet and a width of I100 feet. A number ons, roseate spoonbills, osprey, and egrets. These waters are also abundant in game
of inlets and passes along the waterway are sufficiently stable and well lighted to be fish-trout, snook, mangrove snapper, mackerel, and tarpon.
safely entered at night on a rising tide. However, the best time is when the sun is Cruising the waterway offers the opportunity to venture up tributary rivers or
high, lighting shoal areas and shallow waters. explore islands accessible only by boat, escaping the outside world to lose oneself
in the tranquility of nature and Florida's subtropical beauty.

- ,

O I
vooo
W" I
.f
v I I,-
I

I
% i
I
N %
0 .0
V-
Is
S86

AfLtb.,v 1 c
0 1
0 5 10 Miles
I

y
1
148

Lee County
Lee County lies on the southwest coast of the Florida peninsula. Named by the pio- g
neering Florida cattleman and politician Captain Francis Asbury Hendry in honor
of General Robert E. Lee, it became Florida's forty-first county on May 13, 1887.
Present-day Lee County includes 51.5 miles of sandy beach, mostly located on the
Gulf side of the many barrier islands stretching the length of the county. Interior
islands and shallow estuaries between the barrier islands and the mainland combine
with extensive mangrove swamps to provide the county with an especially abundant
wildlife.
Because of the dynamic nature of the barrier islands, erosion and deposition
create constant changes in the islands' topography. Storms and hurricanes can cause
dramatic differences overnight. Inlets and passes become shallow over time, while
new ones may be created by island breaching. These coastal changes have occurred ~>k
repeatedly in Lee County, often accelerated where real estate development has ''<
changed the coastal topography.
The northernmost island, Gasparilla, is about 7 miles long and averages about
one-third mile in width. Boca Grande Pass, which separates Gasparilla from Cayo
Costa Island, is especially deep and allowed for the building of a deep-water port on '
the southern end of the island. The port led to minor development, but the island �t tc ivzrk
remains relatively unspoiled despite an erosion problem. Gasparilla is accessibler<j�>4
only from Charlotte County to the north, making it inconvenient to residents. -
Cayo Costa and Upper Captiva, the next two barrier islands, are not accessible CpiaIln
by automobile. Together, the county and state own most of these islands and intend CpiaIln
to preserve them in their natural state. Their size and pristine condition make them
excellent workshops for the study of barrier island systems.
Sanibel Island is connected to the mainland by the Sanibel Causeway (S.R. 867)
and is world famous as a model of thoughtful environmental planning and con-
trolled development. The island has many public and private nature preserves, in-
cluding the J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Most beach access is
near Point Ybel on the island's southern tip. Captiva Island is reached by road from
Sanibel.
Across San Carlos Bay from Point Ybel lies Estero Island, frequently referred to
as Fort Myers Beach. The island is heavily developed and is the most popular recre-
ation area in the county. Reached by S.R. 865, which runs the length of the island,
Estero also features the 80-acre Mantanzas Pass Nature Preserve.
Besides the barrier island beaches, the county has significant amounts of shore-
line on the Pine Islands and on its inland coast, much of it covered with mangroves.
Fort Myers, noted for its hospitality and quaintness, was the winter home of inven-
tor Thomas Edison. His house and workshop are a museum where daily tours are
given.

149

;771@ 71

Boca Grande accessways are located on Gasparilla
Island, a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and
Ig % 1Charlotte Harbor. Access to 200 feet of undeveloped
v INSE T - 1 | city beach is off Gulf Blvd. (S.R. 771 South) street
Charlotte Harbor ends: 19th, 17th, 13th, 12th, 11th, 10th, 7th, 5th, and
1st streets.

Port Boca Grande
Boca Grande Beach has 300 feet of developed Gulf
Lighthouse a Grande beach off S.R. 771, west of the landing field.
Beach Park
Lighthouse Beach Park occupies the southern end of
Gasparilla Island and has 400 feet of undeveloped
beach. Access is at the southern street end of Gulf
Blvd. (S.R. 771). Fishing pier.

Cayo Costa Island Park has 625 acres of isolated
Isays Costa - and undeveloped beach between the Gulf of Mexico

developed beach accessible from Sanibel-Captiva Rd.
a(S.R. 867) west from Fort Myers across Sanibel Island
Oiva vi o- <@> 11 | l 2 Xto Captiva Island. Street-end access roads are Laika
c'~ ag ^ @ O ! t l X Ln., South Seas, Wightman Ln., Andy Rosse Ln.,
Cemetery, and Post Office Corner.

�o a

0 2 4 Miles o

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

C' ' c. o .e: *� S '
Lee County "" '
D~ ~~~ q 90 oy~o'g .0= OBC' jo ~
0e ,' 'C'C ', 0" p
NAME 0 a ' n 5 p, 0 0 i'0 C
Boca Grande 1'1 I. I1 101 I I I I I I I 01 1.1.1
Boca Grande Beach 1 I 1 1'1.1 I1 1 II I 11 11 I. I I1I
Lighthouse Beach Park I1 *I1I I 1 I1 I I I 1I I I1 I' I I@1
Cayo Costs sland Park I I I I I III I I I I I IIIIIII
Captiva p. 1. SI 1I I II I I I'I aI1I

151
Captiva Island

0 0~~~~~.5 Mile 4

Gasparilla Island (inset 1)

Egrets

G4/f 7Crlos Ad

INSET- 2

o f BBig Carlos Pas

Big Hickory Pass
of~ ~~c

3 1 2 3 4 Miles c
Xonita Beach

Southern district

153

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

///.

Lee County 4' + *04 .0

NAME
Turner Beach * ** - � * * * *
Bowman's Beach 0 00 0 0 0 0 0
Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach *0 00 - * 0 0 0 � �
Flowing Well � 0 0
Sanibel * 0 0 0 0 0
Lighthouse Park 0 0 � � * 0
Dixie Beach * 5 0 �0
Ft. Myers Beach Park and Accessways 0 0* 0 0 0 �0 0 0
Bunch Beach 0 0 0 0 � � �
Lover's Key Beach/Black Island/
Carl Johnson Park 0 0 0 0 0 0 - -0 100
Bonita Beach 0 0 0 S * * �

Turner Beach has 3 acres of developed beach at the Sanibel beach access (both Gulf and bay) is at Button- Bunch Beach is a mainland beach on San Carlos Bay
south end of Captiva Island. Access is off S.R. 867. wood and at Seagrape. across from Fort Myers Beach (Estero Island). Access
is S.R. 867 west from Fort Myers south to John Morris
Bowman's Beach is an emerged sandbar on the north Lighthouse Park is 5 acres of undeveloped beach at Rd.
end of Sanibel Island. Marked access is from S.R. 867. Point Ybel. Access is at the end of Periwinkle Way in
Sanibel. Lover's Key Beach/Black Island/Carl Johnson
Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach is a developed Park are currently under acquisition by the state with
beach with 30 acres on the Gulf of Mexico in Ybel. Dixie Beach faces San Carlos Bay on the east end of plans for future development. Carl Johnson Park is a
Access is at the beach end of Southwinds Dr. E. Sanibel Island and adjoins J. N. "Ding" Darling Na- developed park with many facilities.
tional Wildlife Refuge. Access is marked on Periwin-
Flowing Well has access to more than a half mile of kle Way when entering Sanibel. Bonita Beach lies on the southernmost border of Lee
undeveloped beach at Falgur St., Donax St., Nerita County. Access is marked off S.R. 865. It has 600 feet
St., and Beach Rd. Ft. Myers Beach access to undeveloped beach is off of beachfront.
S.R. 865 on streets marked on map on next page, from
Ave. A through Flamingo Ave. Fishing pier.

154

8, ~ ~ ~ ~~~~,

o~T 1 i

'4 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 8'

Sanibel Island (inset 2)�"c

�t~~~~~~~~5

0 1 ~~~~Mile

Estero Island (inset 3)

156

Southwest Shell Collecting

Collecting seashells and sharks' teeth on the beaches of southwest Florida has been
a favorite pastime of both visitors and residents for years. Because of the gradually
sloping seabed in this area, the gentle, rolling swell of the Gulf washes up a steady , :
supply for the beachcomber. Specimens are especially plentiful on the beach imme-
diately after a storm.
A large variety of shells, from the large brown cockle, up to 5 inches across, to
the tiny, colorful coquina, is commonly available to the casual collector. Conch,
auger, and olive shells provide a wide diversity of shapes and sizes as further reward
for the exploring eye of the attentive searcher. But the fossilized sharks' teeth, per-
haps more abundant here than anywhere else worldwide, are the most intriguing
shoreline item.
The teeth are all that remain of sharks that inhabited these waters millions of
years ago. Colored black, gray, or brown, they have assumed the color of the'sedi-
ment in which they have been buried for eons. Many came from species long since
extinct and vary from � inch to 3 inches in size.
To simplify the gathering of shells and teeth, many local shops and bookstores
sell guides to assist in locating the best hunting grounds and to identify the samples
discovered. Many guides supply extensive detail on the teeth, including illustra-
tions, descriptions, and history.
.What starts out to be an adventuresome day of collecting on the beach might turn
into a lifetime hobby.

157

- F7~~5 085ile

158

Collier County

Florida's second largest county in land area is Collier County, covering approxi- the last sizable stand of big cypress in Florida. Twenty miles south of Corkscrew
mately 2,119 square miles. It is also one of the fastest growing areas in the country, and east of Naples on Everglades Parkway (Alligator Alley or S.R. 84) is the
having had a population increase of 125 percent from 1970 to 1980. Resident popu- 600,000-acre Big Cypress National Preserve.
lation in 1982 was 101,000, up from 38,040 in 1970. The unique feature of this federal preserve is that in addition to providing a home
The county is named for Barron G. Collier who purchased large tracts of land for birds, alligator, deer, and the endangered Florida panther, the Park Service al-
here in the early 1920s. Located between the Gulf and the Everglades, it enjoys lows hunting, oil exploration, and mining. Here the philosophy of preserve man-
moderate temperatures and predictable sunshine. The beautiful white beaches are agement is to promote balanced ecological use of South Florida's environment.
quartz sand mixed with shell fragments that have been carried southward by rivers South of Big Cypress is the famed Everglades National Park that extends from
and shore currents from Alabama through Georgia and northern Florida. The small Everglades City to Florida Bay along the sensitive coastal estuaries of southwest
tidal range of 3 feet minimizes beach erosion from the adverse effects of tidal Florida.
actions. Collier-Seminole State Park, 16 miles east of Naples, has a boardwalk that
Naples is the largest incorporated municipality in the county and has been the winds through the mangroves, salt marshes, and cypress trees. Wildlife includes
county seat since 1962. In the 1880s the owner and publisher of the Louisville Cou- brown pelicans, bald eagles, and manatees.
rier-Journal, Walter N. Haldeman, "discovered" and founded this exotic city on the Between Naples and the Isle of Capri lies a quiet retreat known as the Rookery
Gulf. At that time the only transportation to Naples was by boat. Other pioneers Bay National Estuarine Sanctuary. This 6,000-acre tidal mangrove system has been
saw the magnificence and drama of this natural environment as the setting for a set aside as a living laboratory for the study and research of sensitive estuaries.
resort community. To this day the City of Naples and Collier County are actively Other activities important in Collier County include production and retailing of
involved in protecting and preserving the natural state, yet providing access for visi- natural gas. Recent years have seen dramatic increases in citrus fruit and winter
tors and residents to desirable areas. vegetable production.
Those who enjoy a natural habitat where wildlife thrives undisturbed by develop- Sound planning and a strong determination to safeguard the unique environment
ment will be happy to find over 70 percent of Collier County under preservation. in Collier County ensure that this area will be protected and enjoyed by those who
Corkscrew Sanctuary, the oldest and most visited, has a 1.75-mile boardwalk through visit and live here.

159

Lely Barefoot BeachC7

~~~Wiggins Pa.. 0tt

Recreation Area )
0846

Vanderbilt B each2

NPort Nap~as,

0896
Clam Pass/Pelican
Bay South
Park Shore Beach R
Horizon Way 0851 Naples fishing pier

Vedado Way
Via Miramar086____
Doctor Pa._ _ __ _ _

Lowdermilk Park

INSET -1 N a Ie 3

Goro

0 1 2 2 ~~~Miles

Northern district

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

C ollier County / , 00 54bt( o

NORTHERN DISTRICT
Lely Barefoot Beach 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Wiggins Pass State Recreation Area *** *** 0 S - S *
Vanderbilt Beach S 0 * * * *
Clam Pass/Pelican Bay South 0 0 0 0 0
Park Shore Beach * * 0 * *
Naples Municipal Beach 0 00 S e * S - 0
Lowdermilk Park * 0 - 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Tigertall Beach 0 0* a - v * *0 O* �0 * *
Point Marco Beach 6 0 * *

Lely Barefoot Beach is 600 feet of developed barrier Clam Pass/Pelican Bay South is a 3,200-foot unde- Lowdermilk Park is a developed beach in the City of
island beach just south of and adjacent to Lee County's veloped beach accessible only by boat or by walking Naples. Access to 900 feet of beach frontage is at
Bonita Beach. Access is from S.R. 865 (Bonita Beach north along the beach from Park Shore Beach about a Bayan Blvd., west off Gulf Shore Blvd. N.
Rd.). half mile.
Tigertail Beach, on NW Marco Island, is accessible
Wiggins Pass State Recreation Area has 166 acres Park Shore Beach is an undeveloped beach with an via North Collier Blvd. to Seaview Ct. W. This is a de-
of undeveloped beach separated from the mainland by asphalt walkway and boardwalk. Access is in Naples at veloped beach on the Gulf of Mexico. No alcohol
mangrove swamp and tidal creeks. It lies south of Bare- the intersection of Gulf Shore Blvd. N. and Park Shore allowed.
foot Beach and Wiggins Pass on the Gulf of Mexico. Dr.
Access is on Gulf Shore Blvd. N. (U.S. 41). Point Marco Beach, on SW Marco Island, is accessi-
Naples Municipal Beach provides street-end access ble from Collier Blvd. It has less than an acre of unde-
Vanderbilt Beach provides walkway access to 2 miles to the Gulf of Mexico at Horizon Way, Vedado Way, veloped beach.
of undeveloped beach along Gulf Shore Blvd. at Gulf Via Miramar, 7th Ave. N. through 21st Ave. S. off Gulf
Shore N., Seabreeze Ave., Channel Dr., Bayview Ave., Shore Blvd., and 32d Ave. S., 33d Ave. S., and Sabre
and Gulf Shore S. There is also one road access at the Cay off Gordon Dr. Fishing pier at 12th Ave. S.
west end of Vanderbilt Beach Rd. (S.R. 862).

161

S. Golf Dr. R
7th Ave. N.
N. Lake Dr.
6th Ave. N.

4th Ave. N.
3rd Ave. N.
2nd Ave. N.

Central Ave.
1st Ave.S
2nd Ave.S

4th Ave. S.

Broa Ave .~ S~0.

13th Ave. S.~cc

21st Ave. S.Waka : . -..

33rd Ave. S.I, 1

Naples (inset 1) Red ma~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ngov

Little Mac�

Tigertail Beach - -

0 1 2 3 4 5 Miles1Id
Great white heron

Caxambas qPas st

Gullivan

0 1 2 3 4 5 Miles

163

Central district

a k
Palm

Ba~ ,Bay

I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~I

0 ~ ~ ~ ~ 1 4 5 Miles EverQ7e

Southeastern district

164
c~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~x ;~B,~ L?1

~~~~~~~~~~~~Pb~~~~ ~ ~~~~, ..
B~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ V~i
E l hL-+~ ~ i ~ ~ . ~~ ! i~

$ozlth�~$~�rn di$~ricl

164

Mangrove

Mangrove is a common name for certain shrubs and trees from three different fami- groves are distinguished from the other two species by their prominent aerial roots
lies. They all grow in dense thickets or forests along coasts, tidal estuaries, and salt and their long, pencil-shaped seeds.
marshes. Distinguished by their masses of exposed, tangled roots, mangroves have The most cold-tolerant species, the black mangrove (Avicennia germinans),
adapted for survival in sheltered, saline habitats along much of Florida's peninsular grows northward to Cedar Key on the Gulf and to St. Augustine on the east coast.
coastline. The ability to.procure fresh water from a saltwater environment permits Abundant pneumatophores, extending above the mud, distinguish them from other
them to flourish where other trees and shrubs cannot. By prospering here on the species. Their narrow, oblong leaves have a distinctive two-tone color, with dark
critical sea/land border, mangroves also assist in maintaining the quality of coastal green above and silver-green below. The fragrant white flowers attract honeybees.
waters. White mangroves (Languncularia racemosa) generally prefer higher ground
In order to subsist in their saline setting, mangroves have evolved several unique than their cousins. Although lacking the characteristic root structures, a distinguish-
characteristics. They are capable of maintaining a low salt content in their cells by ing feature of white mangrove is the presence of two small lumps at the base of each
secreting excess salt through specialized salt glands, or filtering salt out with their leaf, which serve as salt glands. The leaves are thicker and more rounded than red
roots. Thick, wax-covered leaves help prevent water loss. To obtain oxygen, their or black mangrove and often have a notch at the tip. Unable to tolerate cold tem-
roots have evolved distinct features. Either aerial roots, growing down to the sedi- peratures, white mangroves are rarely found north of Cape Canaveral on the east
ment from branches, or pneumatophores (fingerlike projections), growing up from coast or Tampa Bay on the west.
submerged roots, supplement the trees' need for oxygen. The large migration of new residents to Florida has unfortunately reduced the
Their roots also assist in shoreline stabilization and, by trapping debris and sedi- mangrove population of the state. However, as people have become aware of the
ment, actually build the shoreline seaward. This accumulated matter serves as both trees' essential and unique function in the coastal ecosystem, steps have been taken
a filter, removing pollutants from runoff, and a source of food for fish and inverte- to protect and expand their habitat. This effort has led to the currently popular trend
brates as it decomposes and releases nutrients into the surrounding water. of cultivating and transplanting mangroves on both private and public lands. The
Three species of mangrove are found in Florida: red, black, and white. Red man- species are also protected by restrictive laws that govern their cutting and that set
groves (Rhizophora mangle) are generally found seaward of the other species and as aside large state mangrove parks and wildlife areas.
far north as Daytona Beach on the Atlantic and Cedar Key on the Gulf. Red man-

,A. US'e$_

165

-~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~AP 7-

I 1 ~ ~ I ~ -,

I ~~ I 1~~~ i
- "N ~~~~~~~~ ~ ~ ~ N 'N~~~~~~~'~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

'N~~~NNN~~~~ '~ ~

N '~~~~~cv~~~~. --~~~

NORTHWEST COAST

!74?
�, ~ ~ i- i

-e~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~k

"Sri OkiB -

F;~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~�

Hobie-t regatta

_i~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -i

Hobie-cat regatta

Santa Rosa County

Santa Rosa County has the distinction of some of the newest yet most beautiful
beaches of pure white sand in the state. The county does not directly face the Gulf
of Mexico, but it has leased a section of beach from neighboring Escambia County
on Santa Rosa Island at Navarre Beach. This facility is part of the "Miracle Strip"
from Panama City to Pensacola (now called "Emerald Coast"). Santa Rosa County
also has long shorelines on the Intracoastal Waterway and Escambia Bay available
for water sports and boating. At Gulf Breeze fishermen have access to one of the
world's longest fishing piers.
Blackwater River State Park, in the interior, is a popular destination for many
visitors as well as local residents. Canoeing and tubing on the Blackwater River are
enjoyed by people of all ages. Just to the east of Gulf Breeze on U.S. 98 is the Naval
Live Oaks section of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. It is a historic remnant of t t
the nation's first timber preserve. Here in 1828 the young American nation estab-
lished the Santa Rosa Live Oak Timber Reservation. A tract of 30,000 acres was set
aside to guarantee a source of timber for the nation's navy. Unfortunately, it was a
short-lived project.
The earliest county inhabitants were Indians who thrived in the upland hardwood
forests. Many came to the bays and Gulf for fish, which they dried in the sun. As
more loggers and settlers arrived, the push to have their own county became stronger.
Santa Rosa County was created in 1842.
The principal attractions in Santa Rosa County are swimming, sunbathing, and
fishing. Freshwater fishing and hunting are popular in season.

169

Escambia County

Bordering Alabama, Escarnbia County is "the Western gate to the Sunshine State." In the second quarter of the nineteenth century a lighthouse and Fort Barrancas
It was here on Pensacola Bay in 1559 that Spain founded the first European settle- were constructed on land near the entrance to Pensacola Bay. These locations today
ment in the United States. Led by Don Tristan de Luna, 1,500 people established a are in the Pensacola Naval Air Station and are open to visitors, Fort Pickens, now
colony. Unfortunately, a hurricane destroyed the expedition's ships and most of its part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, was built on Santa Rosa Island in the 1 830s.
supplies. Within two years the Spaniards left, shifting their interest to the Atlantic It was held continuously throughout the Civil War by Union forces. In the late nine-
coast with the establishment of St. Augustine in 1565. Over the next three centuries teenth century the famous Apache chief Geronimo was imprisoned there.
the area saw a succession of Spanish, French, English, American, and Confederate The Naval Air Station at Pensacola has additional points of interest for the visi-
governments, tor. It was the site where, in 1914, a small band of aviators were trained in naval
In 1763, the British established the colonies of East and West Florida. During aviation. The Naval Air Museum today honors the thousands of pilots who have
the Revolutionary War these were the only American colonies to remain loyal to earned their wings here and displays actual aircraft and spacecraft. Visitors are in-
Britain. The trading firm of Panton, Leslie and Company was formed and soon vited for tours aboard the aircraft carrier Lexington, which is maintained in active
dominated trade with the Indians. It prospered with the active help of Alexander commission for actual flight deck training.
Mcuillivray, a Creek chief of most unusual background: his father was a Scot and Downtown Pensacola has several museums, the Seville Square, a historic dis-
long-time Indian trader and his mother was the daughter of a Creek mother and a trict, and exquisite wrought iron on numerous restored structures. All land south of
French father. A miniature replica of one of the later Panton, Leslie trading posts is Main Street was made from the rocks of ships' ballast brought from all over the
located at Main and Spring streets in Pensacola. world. In the late nineteenth century the habor was active as hundreds of sailing
Andrew Jackson was named Florida's first governor. Escambia became one of its ships loaded lumber for export from sixteen wharves. Additional traffic was pro-
first two counties and Pensacola the first territorial capital. Shortly thereafter, the vided by numerous fishing boats loaded with red snapper caught for shipment
capital was moved to the new city of Tallahassee, halfway between St. Augustine throughout the nation. Most of the docks were destroyed by a 1926 hurricane.
and Pensacola.

170~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1.0 Miles

WestRn districtv G~t. perd~dO Mis
ssold age Be

ationa% sseas hore

pGulf ~l perdido

Western district

Perdido Key State Preserve: 250 acres of white Big Lagoon State Recreation Area has 700 acres of Gulf Islands National Seashore/Perdido Key and
sand, dunes covered with sea oats and rosemary, and coastal park on Old River with camping facilities. It is Johnson Beach has 14 miles of natural sand and dune
pine flat woods located on S.R. 292 about 2 miles west located about 13 miles west of Pensacola on S.R. 292 reserve reached from S.R. 292 southwest from Pensa-
of Big Lagoon State Recreation Area. (Gulf Beach Highway). cola to Perdido Key.

171

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Escambia/Santa Rosa Counties

NAME i , 0 0>
WESTERN DISTRICT
Environmentally Endangered Lands
Perdido Key State Preserve # I � ����� � �
Perdido Key State Preserve 0 2 * 0 0 0 0
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Perdido Key and Johnson Beach * ��*� * � 0 0 00 �
Perdido Key State Preserve � �� � � � ��*
Big Lagoon State Recreation Area 0 0 0 0 0 � 0 0
CENTRAL DISTRICT
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Fort Pickens and Langdon Beach �� ��� ��� � 0 ��00 0
Unnamed Beaches � ��� �� �� 0 0 � 0
Quietwater Beach � ���0 ��� � ��� � 0
Casino Beach � � . �0 0 � 0 0
Pensacola Beach � � � � � � 0

Pensacola billfish tournament, July 4-6

Gulf Islands National Seashor
Fort Pickens Area '

0 1 2 3 4 5 Miles

Central district

Gulf Islands National Seashore/Fort Pickens and Unnamed beaches have over 1,000 feet of Gulf and Gulf Islands National Seashore/Naval Live Oaks
Langdon Beach. Reached on S.R. 399, 9 miles west sound beach. They lie just outside of the Ft. Pickens lies east of Gulf Breeze on both sides of U.S. 98.
from Gulf Breeze to Pensacola Beach. Open daily entrance on both sides of Ft. Pickens Road, about 2.4
throughout the year. Historic tours of fort facilities, miles west of S.R. 399. Casino Beach is the largest developed area for recre-
160-site campground, museums, and 17 miles of natu- ation on Santa Rosa Island. It is located at the intersec-
ral beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Scuba diving area and Quietwater Beach has 2,500 feet of area for swim- tion of Ft. Pickens Rd. and Via de Luna at the end of
fishing pier on Santa Rosa Sound; Langdon Beach on ming, boat launching, and picnicking on Santa Rosa Pensacola Beach Blvd. (S.R. 399), about 0.8 mile
the Gulf (lifeguards June-August). Sound. Access is on Pensacola Ave. (S.R. 399) just south of the Bob Sikes Bridge.
after crossing the Bob Sikes Bridge.
Pensacola Beach public access. Avenida 10 through
Avenida 23 off Ariola Drive. 173

0 I~~~ ~~itle Sain

Pensacola Beach West (inset 1)

.1 I II. II 'IP

0 1Mile

Pensacola Beach East (inset 2)

174

Eastern district

Gulf Islands National Seashore/Santa Rosa Rec- Navarre Beach public access: S.R. 399 West at Navarre Beach Fishing Pier: 8525 Gulf Blvd. off
reational Facility. 106 acres of developed recreation Wisconsin St., South Carolina St., Ohio St., New S.R. 399.
beach on both Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf of Mex- Jersey St., Missouri St., Michigan St., east of Louisi-
ico, located 10 miles east of Pensacola Beach on S.R. ana St., east of Indiana St., and west of California St. Shoreline Park, a small, community recreation area
399. on Santa Rosa Sound, lies on both sides of the Navarre
Beach Bridge.

175

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Escambia/Santa Rosa Counties 0 ~ � o /

EAeSTERN DISTRICT I1I IIIII
Gulf Islands National Seashore /I I I IIIIIII IIIIIII
Santa Rosa Recreational Facility 1.1 I 1ll@SISI1l@I 1101*101 1.P1 I 1.01 I'D I I II
Navarre Beach Public Access 1. 11 IS 101 I I I I I I 1 10I 101 I 101
Navarre Beach Fishing Pier 1@111@ 01 101 I 11IIII1111IS
Shoreline Park 0 ~0~~~ 00 SS 5

Santa Rosa Sound
vGU� BJr/BvdO I

O AM "i~9P 0,P % , �

0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Gul Isa,. 'atosa Sesr 0
~~~~~~~~~~Shoreline Pak11111111 111 �� �

to~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~o

0 0eIZ, 0 1 too ',3 - 0 "41/. Ir""
00 e3 I O 4

I 0 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 Mile

Navarre Beach (inset 3)

176

Okaloosa County

Okaloosa is derived from the Indian words for "pleasant place." Evidence of pre-
Columbian occupation has been found throughout Okaloosa County; mounds, pre-
historic encampments, and discarded shell middens reveal much of the Indian cul- A O / vie w>.
tures that inhabited the area. F:0
The Fort Walton Temple Mound and Museum show the daily life of the early
inhabitants of the Gulf coast. Designated by the Department of the Interior as a -W
national historic landmark, Temple Mound has been restored to its original struc- " . , ,.
ture of 500,000 baskets of dirt. The mound and museum, located in Fort Walton :,
Beach on U.S. 98, are open Tuesday-Saturday 11-4 and Sunday 1-4.
The first beach acquisition under the governor's Save Our Coast program, de-
signed to ensure adequate public beaches for the future, was the Burney Henderson ' :5., ~ ,**,;: :*a*. ;** ~*
Beach State Recreation Area. Highway 98 runs through the 1.2-mile stretch of va- i >: ] 41
cant beach which exhibits white, sugary sand, pale green water, and dunes charac-
teristic of most Okaloosa beaches.
The Okaloosa area of the Gulf Islands National Seashore is on Santa Rosa Island
east of Fort Walton Beach on U.S. 98. The area, formerly known as Fort Walton
Beach Park, has a picnic area and a boat launch to Choctawhatchee Bay.
Both the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay waters are well known for 0
hobie cat racing and wind surfing. Hobie Nationals and (in 1984) the Hobie World 0a
Championship Regatta took place on demanding courses, providing a colorful pano I--
rama of multihued sails.
A fishing pier extends into the Gulf of Mexico from which many of the well-<.~~ atn
known warm-water fish may be caught. There is an entrance fee,
Destin has a well-protected harbor, home to many commercial and recreational
fishing boats. Named the "Luckiest Fishing Village in the World," it is surrounded > DetJ
by white beaches and East Pass and access to Choctawhatchee Bay and to the Intra- U a i
coastal Waterway. 0 5 1,0 Mil *
Some of the state's largest and prettiest dunes are found on Eglin Air Force Base
property between Fort Walton Beach and Destin.

177

East Pass/IDestin area

I~~~~

i i~

0 1 2 3 Miles

I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Western district

Regatta

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Okaloosa County
/A / / / /J/' 4" o ' 4AA '

WESTERN DISTRICT
Liza Jackson Park * * * @0 -
EASTERN DISTRICT
Garnier Beach * *O - - g �
Santa Rosa Island/Okaloosa County
Beach Access 0 6 � 0 - 0
Ross Marler Park 0 00 0 0 a - 0 0 0
Newman Brackin Wayside Park/
Okaloosa Island Pier 0 * 0 0 0 0 �
John C. Beasley Park *0 0 0
Gulf Islands National Seashore/
Okaloosa Area * * * 0 * | * *
Burney Henderson Beach State
Recreation Area 0 0 *0 0 *
Silver Beach Wayside Park 0 OS 0 0 0 0 0 0

Liza Jackson Park lies a half mile east of the Mary Ross Marler Park (formerly Jaycee Park), located Gulf Islands National Seashore/Okaloosa Area
Esther cutoff (S.R. 189A) on U.S. 98. This 13-acre on Santa Rosa Island off U.S. 98, about 1,000 feet east (formerly Fort Walton Beach Park), located on Santa
park fronts Santa Rosa Sound; it is open 7A.M.-10 P.M. of Santa Rosa Sound. This developed community park Rosa Island east of Fort Walton Beach on U.S. 98.
No alcohol allowed. has 55 acres on the Intracoastal Waterway facing Choc- Small craft launch to Choctawhatchee Bay.
tawhatchee Bay.
Garnier Beach, a small bayfront beach located off Burney Henderson Beach State Recreation Area,
Beach View Dr. N.E. in the City of Fort Walton Beach. Newman Brackin Wayside Park/Okaloosa Island 208 acres recently purchased as "Save Our Coast" land
Pier, 40 acres with recreation facilities. U.S. 98 east acquisition. Still under development in 1985, this natu-
Santa Rosa Island/County beach access (off Santa on Santa Rosa Island. ral area lies 2 miles east of Destin on U.S. 98.
Rosa Blvd. west of U.S. 98): Seventh Beach Freeway
(access to the Gulf of Mexico only); Sixth, Fifth, and John C. Beasley Park, a 22-acre community park off Silver Beach Wayside Park: U.S. 98 east, about one
Third Beach Freeways (boardwalk to Gulf and sound); U.S. 98 east on Santa Rosa Island fronting the Gulf of mile from Walton County.
Second and First Beach Freeways (access to sound and Mexico.
Gulf).

180

Gl~~~~~~~~~~By

Thee~~~~

0 AQ)%~~

Eastern district

181

"am~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

C, '6 0 i- 0

Al AlP,~

0 1 ~~~~~~Mile

Ft, Walton Beach/Santa Rosa Island (inset 1

182

Florida's Saltwater Laws

Since local regulations governing the taking of saltwater products may exist, contact Stone crab claws May 15-October 15
the Marine Patrol District Office nearest the location where these activities will take Snook Jan.-Feb., June-July
place. Shad (sport) No closed season
No license is required for saltwater sport fishing; however, any person who Shad (commercial) Check nearest FMP office
wishes to sell or barter any saltwater fish or other saltwater product must first obtain
an appropriate license. Contact the nearest Marine Patrol District Office for further Sports Fishermen's Crawfish Season
information concerning licensing.
July 20 and 21 (2 days)
Minimum Legal Lengths
May not possess more than 6 crawfish on July 20 or more than 12 crawfish cumula-
All measurements are from the tip of nose to the rear center edge of tail. tively for July 20 and 21.

Blue fish 10 inches Limits
Pompano 9.5 inches
Flounder 11 inches Snook. Only 2 in possession. Unlawful to take by means other than pole and line.
Mackerel 12 inches Can't buy or sell. Snatching prohibited.
Black mullet 11 inches
(West of Aucilla River) 9 inches Sailfish. Only 2 in possession; can't buy or sell.
(Aucilla River to Citrus-Hemando county line) 10 inches
*Trout, spotted sea (weakfish) 12 inches Tarpon. Only 2 in possession; can't buy or sell.
(no size limit in Gulf, Wakulla, or Franklin counties)
*Red fish 12 inches Shad. Ten a day by hook and line.
Snook 18 inches
(cannot possess more than two) Queen conch. Ten per day; only 20 in possession.
Bonefish 15 inches
(cannot possess more than two) Striped bass. Only 2 in possession. Can't buy or sell except when raised artificially
*Grouper 12 inches under permit.
(including red grouper, jewfish, Nassau grouper, black
grouper, and gag) Permit fish (of over 20 inches). Only 2 in possession. Illegal to sell, buy, or harvest
Striped bass 15 inches by net; 20 inches or less not protected.
*Possible increases in size limit in 1985-86. Contact the
nearest Marine Patrol District Office for information. Stone crab claws. Forearm measurement must equal or exceed 2.75 inches. No
trapping except under permit from the Department of Natural Resources. Legal
Closed Seasons claw or claws may be taken, but live crab must be released. Cannot possess intact
stone crab.
Crawfish April 1-July 25
Oysters June I-September 1 Oysters. Three inches long.

183

Crawfish Porpoise

Carapace must have a measurement of more than 3 inches or a tail measurement of Unlawful to take or kill porpoises except under federal permit, or to molest, injure,
5.5 inches. Crawfish must remain in a whole condition at all times while being or annoy them. All marine mammals or parts thereof are protected by federal law. If
transferred on or below the waters of the state. The practice of wringing or separat- any marine mammal is found injured, beached, or dead, report it to the District
ing the tail (segmented portion) from the body (carapace or head section) shall be Florida Marine Patrol Office.
prohibited on the waters of this state except by special permit issued by the Division
of Law Enforcement. Any tail so separated under the provisions of a special permit Manta Ray
shall measure not less than 5.5 inches measured lengthwise from the point of the
separation along the center of the entire tail in a flat straight position with tip of the It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation intentionally to destroy a manta
tail closed. No egg-bearing females. No spearing. It is unlawful to possess, have on ray.
board, or remove from the waters of the state, within any 24-hour period, more than
24 crawfish without first obtaining a crawfish license. No trapping except under li- Marine Turtles
cense from the Department of Natural Resources. Traps may be worked during
daylight hours only. No person, firm, or corporation shall take, kill, disturb, mutilate, molest, harass, or
destroy any marine turtle. Marine turtles accidentally caught will be returned to the
Blue Crabs water alive immediately.
No person may take, possess, disturb, mutilate, destroy, cause to be destroyed,
Illegal to use more than five (5) traps for the taking of blue crabs without a permit sell, offer for sale, transfer, molest, or harass any marine turtle nest or eggs at any
from the Department of Natural Resources. Egg-bearing females cannot be sold. time.
Traps may be worked during daylight hours only. Possession for sale of blue crabs
less than 5 inches from point to point across the carapace is prohibited. Unlawful to Spearfishing
willfully molest any crawfish, stone crab, or blue crab trap, line, or buoy. Punish-
able as third-degree felony. Illegal to possess in the water any spear, gig, or lance by a person swimming at or
below the surface of the water in a prohibited area.
Manatee (Sea Cow) Illegal to spearfish in Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Collier County, that
part of Monroe County from Long Key north to the Dade County line and the im-
No persons, firm, or corporation shall kill, injure, annoy, molest, or torture a mana- mediate area of the following: (1) all public bathing beaches; (2) commercial or
tee or sea cow. Boat speed is regulated in certain waters between November 15 and public fishing piers; (3) bridge catwalks; (4) jetties.
March 31 where the manatee is known to congregate. Manatees are endangered. Also illegal to spearfish in fresh water or for freshwater fish in brackish water
Please take every precaution to avoid collision or contact with these large and pon- except for rough fish in special areas designated by the Game and Fresh Water Fish
derous mammals. Report any harassment observed to the nearest Marine Patrol Commission.
District Office.

184

Coral /

Unlawful to take, possess, or destroy sea fans, hard corals, or fire corals unless it
can be shown by certified invoice that it was imported from a foreign country. Coral
may not be taken or possessed in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. �

Drugs and Poisons :

Illegal to place drugs or poisons in the marine waters unless a permit for such use .',T2
has been obtained from the Department of Natural Resources.
:A :/,~~.,,.~~~~.
Pelicans and Other Seabirds ., .. . ,ft.

The brown pelican, an endangered species, is one of the most common victims of . -
fishhook and line injuries. To prevent such injuries: .-"

Always look around before casting to see whether a pelican or other sea-
bird is flying above. : .-!'-- .
Never leave fishing tackle out in the open, unattended-especially when
it is baited.
Do not leave hooks hanging from the end of an exposed fishing rod. Division of Law Enforcement, Florida Marine Patrol, Headquarters, 3900 Com-
Take care not to foul fishhooks or lines around piers or other structures. monwealth Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32303
Seabirds frequently get caught in dangling fishlines.
Do not throw waste fishline or other discards into the water. District Offices

Diver's Down Flag Panama City, St. Andrew Marina (904) 763-3080
Carrabelle, South Marine Street (904) 697-3741
All persons diving must display a "Diver's Down" flag. The flag is red with a white Homosassa Springs, U.S. Hwy. 19 (904) 628-6196
diagonal stripe. In addition to this flag, a rigid replica of the international code Tampa, 5110 Gandy Blvd. (813) 272-2516
"alpha" flag must be displayed from a boat if anyone is diving from it. Use extreme Fort Myers, 1820 Jackson Street (813) 334-8963
caution when operating a boat in the area where these flags are displayed. Miami, 1275 N. E. 79th Street (305) 325-3346
Titusville, 402 Causeway (305) 267-4021
Explosives Jacksonville Beach, 2510 2d Ave. N. (904) 241-7107
Marathon, 2835 Overseas Highway (305) 743-6542
The use of explosives or the discharge of firearms into the water for the purpose of Jupiter, 19100 S.E. Federal Hwy. (305) 747-2033
killing food fish is prohibited. The landing ashore or possession on the water by any Pensacola, 1101 East Gregory St. (904) 438-4903
person of any food fish that has been damaged by explosives or the landing of head-
less jewfish or grouper if the grouper is taken for commercial use is prohibited. From regulations, October 1983, Fla. Department of Natural Resources.

185

>i: 4gs

Fishing p r a
3 :i:~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I--i I : E

Fishing pier at sunset

Walton County

Located in the eastern part of Florida's famed Panhandle "Miracle Strip," Walton '�4
County welcomes visitors to 25 miles of pure, white, unspoiled sand beaches on the �Q
Gulf of Mexico. These sands, like those of the entire "Miracle Strip" from Panama
City- to Pensacola, are known worldwide for their beauty and unusual character.]
Most sands are composed of varying amounts of quartz, shell fragments, broken
coral, and dark-colored minerals. Those of the "Miracle Strip" are almost pure
quartz, with the result of sand that is both extremely fine-textured and glistening
white in color. At times under Florida's bright sun, these broad beaches take on the
appearance of snowfields. Walton County is also distinguished by impressive dunes,
the largest in the state. Many additional miles of shoreline for recreational pleasure
adjoin the sparkling waters of Choctawhatchee Bay.
For the visitor the open expanse of the Gulf of Mexico provides swimming, snor- ei
keling, and deep-sea fishing for red snapper, grouper, king mackerel, and marlin. -
Shoreline surf fishing for pompano, flounder, and whiting is productive. Gathering
crabs and other shellfish along the shore is also popular, as are sunbathing and care -S
free beachcombing.Ba
Sightseers find several fascinating county attractions. DeFuniak Springs, the chct aw ha
county seat, boasts the first memorial erected in the South in honor of Confederate
dead. It was first raised in 1871 by the Walton County Female Memorial Associa-
tion. Later it was moved to the courthouse square at DeFuniak Springs when that
town became the county seat. Also in DeFuniak Springs is the little Walton-G"
DeFuniak Public Library, believed to be the oldest public library building still oper-
ating in the state. Ponce de Leon Springs Recreation Area is a 370-acre park around
two springs that flow at a rate of 14 million gallons a day and maintain a tem-
perature of 68 degrees year-round. Along the Gulf, Grayton Beach State Recreation
Area has been developed for camping, fishing, boating, and diving; nearby Eden
Gardens has I1I acres of landscaped grounds encompassing a restored mansion with
guided tours and picnicking and fishing facilities. 1 ie
Today the county is developing its beaches for both visitors and new residents.
Other activities in the county include a large poultry-raising and -processing indus-
try; commercial farming of such crops as wheat, corn, and soybeans; and tree cut-
ting from the county's extensive forests for forest products industries.

187

Choctawhatchee Bay

'p~~~~~c~
at@ t0So &2 ,

SMiles 'Pt
O 2 0 -3 4C>

Western district

Miramar Beach has 5,500 feet of beach on the Gulf Dune Allen Beach (Walline Park), near the inter-,
side of S.R. 30 about 2 miles east of Okaloosa County. section of state roads 393 and 30A, has 200 feet of un-
developed beach.
Four Mile Village lies 2.5 miles east of Miramar
Beach at the end of S.R. 187 off U.S. 98/S.R. 30. Blue Mountain Beach is 200 feet of undeveloped
beach at the intersection of state roads 83 and 30A.
Beach Highlands is 6,000 feet of undeveloped beach
off S.R. 30A about 2 miles south of S.R. 30.

188

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Walton County 0 y ~q / .
0 . , , 0 . o . ''/
NAME *, .0,C' 0 C 0
WESTERN DISTRICT
Miramar Beach � � � � � �*
Four Mile Village * * * *
Beach Highlands � � � � �
Dune Allen Beach � � � � �* *
Blue Mountain Beach � � � �*� �
EASTERN DISTRICT
Grayton Beach State Recreation Area � � � � � � � � � � � � � � *
Seagrove Beach * ' * * * * *
Phillips Inlet Area � � � �� � �

Wind-~~~scu~lptedm dunes Sea oats on the dunesw~~~~

Wind-sculpted dunes Sea oats on the dunes

Choc awhatchee k ~ ~ ~~~ ><'-n~~vr; ~Grayton Beach State Recreation Area is 356
J 0 51 >~~~~~~ 2 3 ~~beaches situated between Western Lake and the Gulf of
Bay~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~vt Mexico and reached at the southern end of S.R. 283 on
$ 0 i | | | 0 0 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~S.R. 30A.
.Ch. B ffi ! | 2 I g 0 { � l , b~~~Seagrove Beach is 1.5 mies fronting the Gulf, reached
by turning east from S.R. 395 onto S.R. 30A to a point
....... . of pine woodlnear Deer Lake.

bPhillips Inlet Area is 200 feet of undeveloped beach
xlocated 4,500 feet west of the Bay County line on S.R.

0 ( w0.

0~~~~~~~~~~~~~

oEastern districto

190
E~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~oasted 4,00fetwstof te Ba onyln nSR

...... 1, 30
~~|l

190

B~ay County

Located on the Gulf of Mexico at the middle of the Florida Panhandle, Bay County
is noted for snowy sands and abundant fishing. Panama City's annual Miracle Strip >
Marlin Tournament opens the first blue marlin catch of the season and runs through
November. Bay County was established in 1913 and took its name from St. An-
drew's Bay, which it fronts.
Panama City, on the famed Miracle Strip, is one of the principal tourist centers
in western Florida. Long known for their many vacation-related activities, hotels,
motels, and restaurants, the beaches continue to lure visitors seeking the white sand
and surf. During the peak tourist season (March-September) the coastal strip can
overflow with out-of-state vacationers.
During World War 11, the city was a major ship-building and war industry center,
as well as a temporary home for thousands of war workers. Today, Tyndall Air
Force Base and a naval base are important factors in the economy of Bay County.
Panama City was so named by its original developer because it is on a direct line
from Chicago to its namesake in the Canal Zone. Local shippers hoped to capitalize
on the transshipment of products going and coming through the Panama Canal.
St. Andrews State Recreation Area is on more than 10,000 acres of land between
St. Andrew's Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Located west of Panama City, this is a
popular recreation park. Near the park beach is an old "cracker" turpentine still, at <
one time a common sight in this part of the state. It has been restored for exhibition.
The jetties, Gulf channel, bay, and lagoon are famous for fishing. Fishing piers are ~
located on Grand Lagoon and the Gulf beach area.

Gulf beach

191

St. Jose ph Point S o

192
~~~ ,~~~~-~

jay

r'o ae INSET Panama city Beach
4~ �~e %,~ ~o, o',k ~~ <INSET - 2 INSET - 3

Western district

193

Dolphin with pup

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Bay County .; S.

NAME
WESTERN DISTRICT
Panama City Beach and Pier * * X 0 0 0 0
Bay County Pier and Park *0 0 a * * 0 *
CENTRAL DISTRICT
St. Andrews State Recreatlon Area * � 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 0 *
EASTERN DISTRICT
Mexico Beach * 0 00 * *

194

~~~~~~~

H lly ood S, >e � >m %^77Z- oht *4 AT 1Sant
Hollywood . P O Sunnyside ,, y, Laguna Beach/
Hollywood ;0,' Beach ., Santa Monica

N, Access is between street ends.

Hollywood BBeach (naac set 1)

Hollywood Beach accesses: Shasta St., cast of Shasta Laguna Beach/Santa Monica accesses: Twin Lakes Panama City Beach has about 1,400 feet of devel-
St., between Derondo St. and Shasta St. (across from Dr., west of Oleander Dr., between Rose Ln. and Ole- oped, urban beach facing the Gulf of Mexico about 0. 3
post office), Derondo St., between Kelly St. and De- ander Dr., west of 17th St., 16th St., 15th St., east of mile west of Powell Adams Dr. Walkways and street-
rondo St., Dupree St., and west of Riviera Dr. 14th St., and 12th St. end easements to the 9 miles of beach maintained
within the corporate city limits.
Sunnyside Beach accesses: 7th, 4th, 3d, and 2d
streets. Bay County Pier and Park lie a half mile west of
Beckrich Rd. on Miracle Strip Parkway. This popular
area has 160 parking spaces. The pier is open 24 hours
and the beach from 8 A.M. to midnight.

195

Panama City Beach (inset 2)

1 Mile

Panama City Beach (inset 3)

::jA4t 0
St401 2 3 Miles

Central district

Surf Drive Area/Belair Beach accesses: west of Gulf Drive Area/Biltmore Beach accesses: be- St. Andrews State Recreation Area is located 3
Bonita St., Tarpon St., Marlin St., Ocean St., between tween Safari St. and Holiday Dr., Luff St., between miles east of Panama City Beach on S.R. 392. This
Cobia St. and Ocean St., west of Cobia St., Appala- Biltmore Dr. and Luff St., Biltmore Dr., Hurt St., be- 1,063-acre developed park also includes a primitive
chee St., and Choctaw St. tween Irwin St. and Hurt St., Irwin St., Huff St., west area on the western third of Shell Island, accessible
end of Spy Glass Dr., Bristol St., and Lookout St. only by boat.

197
197

LACOON

GRN

~~$~)~~AOO C-13C Belair
Oqc'~oo O b5* O 12/.00.1 Beach / -
61
Biltm. r e ch eelai Beach (inset 4)

198

0 ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~ 1 M i 4les

Eastern district
199

35;.4 >,v o e4 . , .. '0

0 0; Mile

Mexico Beach (inset 5)

Mexico Beach reaches 3 miles west from the Gulf
County line. The town has 26 points of access to the
Gulf of Mexico: between S.R. 386A and 9th St., be-
tween 9th St. and 17th St., 21st St., 23d St., and be-
tween 24th St. and 43d St. A fishing pier is located 0.3
mile west of the landing field on 37th St. off S.R. 98.

200

Dune Grasses
Were it not for sand dunes, many inland areas would lie unprotected from the wind
and waves generated by storms. The vulnerable dunes absorb much of the poten-
tially destructive storm energy and help rejuvenate the torn beach with sand.
Formation of the protective dunes occurs under the stressful conditions of salt
spray, wind, and heat. Sand, washed onshore, is transported by the wind. The
dunes are formed naturally when this blowing sand is trapped by vegetation and
gradually accumulates. The difficult process of dune formation is dependent on
sand-trapping vegetation growing in this harsh environment.
There are certain conditions necessary before dune-building vegetation can be-
come established. The area must be relatively protected from wind and wave mo-
tion, and there must be sufficient organic content in the sand to support vegetation.
Once established, the dune-building plants can tolerate occasional water immersion
and sand burial. As the sands accumulate around the grass, it grows upward, and an
extensive, stabilizing root system develops throughout the dune.
This initial stage of dune formation usually begins in the "pioneer zone," which
is closest to the open sea. In Florida there are three common dune-building grasses
in this zone. Most common is the sea oat (Uniola paniculata), easily identified by
the tall, graceful stems of 3 feet or more and seed heads or "oats." This perennial
grass has an extensive underground root system and is often used in revegetation
projects. Another common dune-building grass is marsh hay or salt meadow cord
grass (Spartina patens). It is a tall, creeping grass with soft leaves that flower in
early summer. Cord grass forms soft, lush meadow that tolerates a slow buildup of
sand. The third is dune panic grass (Panicum amarum), a clumping grass that flour-
ishes in wet sand and flowers in spring and summer.
After a time, these dune-building grasses provide enough organic material for
other types of vegetation to become established and create the next stage of dune
formation, the "scrub zone."

Warning

Sea oats are protected by Florida law. They are not to be picked, broken, or trampled.

201

X :a ::: C: . VVV 4: C <4"

St. Joe Beach

Gulf County

Florida's first constitution was written in Gulf County. The territorial convention
met at the now-vanished city of St. Joseph on December 3, 1838, and remained "
until the completion of the constitutional draft on January 11, 1839. The State Con- thu ~vv \ ~ a
stitutional Museum, a 13-acre park and museum open to the public 9:00 A.M. to
5:00 P.M. seven days a week, is located on S.R. 71 just east of U.S. 98 in Port St.
Joe.J
For over 125 years the lighthouse at Cape San Blas has endured storms, floods, d h
and beach erosion. The first lighthouse was built in 1847 as a warning for those
sailing near the treacherous shoals that extend for several miles south of the cape. The
tower that stands today is a short distance inland from the original site.
Just north of the lighthouse on S.R. 30E is a 20-mile stretch of white sands with
striking dune formations, the St. Joseph State Recreation Area. Prehistoric Indians
inhabited this peninsula and the area between Port St. Joe and Apalachicola Bay.
Here they harvested oysters, scallops, and fish in the salt marshes, lagoons, and IsT
deep-channel harbors. Today, these waters are ideal for cast-netting mullet, crab-
bing, shrimping, and surf-casting for trout and big red fish.
Wewahitchka, the county's earliest permanent settlement, is located in the north-
east near the Dead Lakes bordering the Gaskin Wildlife Management Area. The
nearby Dead Lakes Recreation Area covering 80 square miles provides excellent
freshwater fishing. The park is named for the dead cypress, oak, and pine trees that
were drowned by the natural overflow of the Chipola River. The white tupelo gum
tree that grows only in the swampy waters of the Dead Lakes makes this area world
famous. For over 100 years beekeepers in the river valleys have produced a honey
that never granulates or becomes rancid, from the May blossom of the rare white
tupelo. This swampy area between the Apalachicola and Chipola rivers annually
produces over half a million pounds of honey, making Florida the third largest S0
honey-producing state in the nation.

ON-BS

Gul f of Mex ico 10 Miles

203

Beacon Hill Public Beach A K

,St. Joese

IQSSt. Joe

-Port St. Joe
�~~~~~~~~

~o ~~~Port St. Joe City Par
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~'N

U,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~r,

Or) ~ ~ ~ or StHo Ct arko

1 2 3 Miles
F9 �

St. Joe peninsula Northern district

204

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

.////' ~ > . /,/
Gulf County \\0 % 9

NAME ~qg''f>~~f ,o'~

WESTERN DISTRICT
Beacon Hill Public Beach 0 00 6 0 * * *
St. Joe Beach 0 6 6 � � �
St. Joe Beach-Port St. Joe * * * * � * *
Port St. Joe City Park * * I * *
EASTERN DISTRICT
Indian Pass * * I � � � �se
Cape San Bias * �� * * e 6 �
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park/
T.H. Stone Memorial *@ @ @ @ @ @ @ � @ a � � � I S O �

Beacon Hill Public Beach lies 0.7 mile from the Bay Port St. Joe City Park maintains a small boat- Cape San Bias is located on the south end of St.
County line on U.S. 98. This small, undeveloped beach launching ramp on St. Joseph Bay at the end of 5th St. Joseph Spit about 14 miles from Port St. Joe. Named
has side-of-the-road parking only. for the lighthouse first built in 1847, the existing loran
Indian Pass is located at the eastern end of the Miracle station (long-range aid to navigation) serves as a mod-
St. Joe Beach has 1.2 miles of undeveloped Gulf Strip beaches on Indian Peninsula. Situated between ern aid to boating.
beach with off-road parking. It is located 1.7 miles St. Vincent's Island and St. Joseph Peninsula State Park,
southeast of Bay County on S.R. 30 (U.S. 98). this area is the natural opening from Apalachicola Bay St. Joseph Peninsula State Park/T. H. Stone Me-
to the Gulf of Mexico. morial at the north end of S.R. 30E has 20 miles of
St. Joe Beach/Port St. Joe. This north county white-sand beaches, freshwater ponds, and salt marshes.
coastal area is open beach without facilities. Parking is The park is surrounded by water and is characterized
along S.R. 30 (U.S. 98). by striking dune formations.

205

Port
St. Joe
St. Joseph Oa Gov
li.nisula State

S3~~~~~~~~~~~~ 8
Oak Grove,

p San Bias .."an Lagoo n
atr "4-'d

Memor~~~~~~~~nial ass

0 1 2 3 ~~~4 5 Miles

Southern district Surf casting

206

Save Our Coast

Florida has over 8,000 miles of tidal shoreline, more barrier islands than any other
state, and one of the fastest growth rates in the nation. Three-fourths of the state's
people reside in the 159 cities and 35 counties along the coasts; over 900 persons
move to Florida each day. As development occurs, there is a resulting decrease in
land available for recreation to satisfy the demand of Florida's residents and the 38
million annual visitors. In addition, the aesthetic features that draw people to the
coast become degraded.
To preserve the ecologically sensitive coastal areas, Governor Bob Graham and
the Florida Cabinet launched the "Save Our Coast" program in September 1981.
The keystone of the program is a $200 million bond program to purchase coastal
lands, primarily beaches. The lands selected for acquisition will be used for public
recreation in harmony with conservation and preservation objectives. Nominations
for parcel proposals have been submitted to the Department of Natural Resources
(DNR), Division of Recreation and Parks, by interested citizens, private organiza-
tions, and government agencies. Criteria for selection are established by the joint
Interagency Management Committee-Outdoor Recreation Advisory Committee
and approved by the governor and cabinet.
The acquisition bond debt will be paid from revenues that accrue to the Land
Acquisition Trust Fund, created in 1963 by the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Act.
Revenue accrues to the fund primarily through a percentage of the Documentary
Stamp Tax collected on real estate and other transactions in Florida. The DNR has
developed a long-term plan for selling "Save Our Coast" bonds over the next three
years. To date, $50 million worth of bonds have been sold.
The Henderson property in Okaloosa County became the state's first purchase on
February 2, 1983. The 208-acre parcel extends for over a mile along the Gulf of
Mexico. It was purchased for $13.1 million. The land, characterized by sugar-sand
beaches and scenic dunes, has been designated as the Burney Henderson State Rec-
reation Area.

207

~~~~~41~~~~~~~1

i,~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dune walkovers to protect the vegetation

208

Franklin County

Franklin County, in the Panhandle, is located on Apalachicola Bay and the Gulf of The name Apalachicola is derived from a Creek Indian tribe, the Apalachee.
Mexico. The Apalachicola area was the second largest Confederate port during the Over 90 percent of the state's oysters are harvested in the area surrounding the Ap-
Civil War. Several houses shelled by federal gunboats at that time still stand. alachicola harbor, and the name is often associated with these excellent oysters.
Like many Florida coastal towns, Apalachicola was plagued by yellow fever that Each year on the first Saturday in November a seafood festival is held in Apalachi-
took many lives in the 1830s. In an attempt to cool room temperatures to improve cola. Activities include art shows, a parade, entertainment, a grand ball, and a fire-
the condition of his patients, Dr. John Gorrie developed an ice-making machine in works display. The Apalachicola Bay area is the largest national estuarine sanctuary
1850. Although he died in obscurity in 1855, Dr. Gorrie is one of two Florida men in the United States.
honored in the Statuary Hall in Washington. The early history of Apalachicola and St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, off St. Vincent Sound, is a 12,500-acre
Dr. John Gorrie are shown in the Gorrie State Museum in Apalachicola. island federal reserve. Earlier owners brought exotic species to the island. Some
zebra and eland were removed before the refuge was established, but the sunburn
deer still remain. All travel to St. Vincent is over coastal water by boat.

10 Miles

209

i ~'~ ,~ ~~~~~~paci

4,~~~~~~' ~b
21 '~ .v o S30
St Vincent Sound

APALACHICOLA

ass BAY
ejet~~~~~~~~~~~~~t

0 I 2 3 4 5 Miles

Western district

210

FACILITIES ENVIRONMENT

Franklin County ~ 7<

NAME ~0 0o "0''~
WESTERN DISTRICT
S't. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge 6 0 @ @ 00 0
EASTERN DISTRICT
St. George Island I a
St. George Island State Park/
Dr. Julian G. Bruce a g * � e � g o � � � � �
Carrabelle Beach 0 a 0 * � g *
Dog Island 0 0 g

St. Vincent's National Wildlife Refuge is located St. George Island, located near Apalachicola and Carrabelle Beach, located one mile west of Carra-
on an unusual triangular-shaped barrier island, 9 miles across the bay from East Point, has 29 miles of near- belle on U.S. 98/319, has a gradual sloping beach on
long, 4 miles wide on the east end, and gradually nar- primitive beaches. Bordered by the Gulf on the south St. George Sound.
rowing to a point on the west end of Indian Pass. All and Apalachicola Bay to the north, the white sandy
travel to the island is over water; no public transporta- beaches and towering dunes create rare beauty. Linked Dog Island has isolated white-sand beaches just off
tion is available. Boat launch sites are located at Apa- to the mainland by a bridge and causeway 4.2 miles the coast of Carrabelle.
lachicola and Indian Pass, 21 miles west of Apalachi- long, the island is easily reached from U.S. 98/319.
cola on U.S. 98 (S.R. C 30). There are 14 miles of
beaches along the south and east shores and 80 miles of St. George Island State Park/Dr. Julian G. Bruce
inland trails. occupies 1,883 acres at the eastern end of the long,
narrow St. George Island. Access to 9 miles of un-
developed beaches and dunes is from U.S. 98/319 at
East Point.

211

So GA

'%,C

St. George Island State Park
Dr. Julian G. Bruce

0 1 2 3 4 5 Miles

Go)

Central district

212

0 1 24 5 Miles

Eastern district
2~

Dog Island Oyster cluster

* :. -:
A'
."*...

1 *. a ...-c, syt.

r A .2;

A-. *>t1i t
w: :>"""
.... Wc. j%4:

A . 41
U
.$ V Sr
4 - -
a .' ...
7 * . ....Jj;.
*.......-.' *.*.4-,n

- *tJ**
it-- I.
C'.'

Sand dollar

214

Index

A Big Lagoon State Recreation Area, Canaveral National Seashore/Playa- Crawfish, 184
Algiers Beach, 154 xviii, xx, 171 linda Beach, xxi, 44 Crescent Beach, 17
Ambersand Beach Park, 54 Big Pine Key Park, 109 Cape Canaveral access, 47
Amelia City Beach, 5 Bill Baggs-Cape Florida State Recre- Cape Canaveral Jetty Park, 44 D
Amelia Island Beach, 3, 4, 5, 13 ation Area, xviii, 98 Cape Florida State Recreation Dade County, xviii, 90-100
American Beach, 5 Biltmore Beach, 197, 198 Area, 91 Dania Beach, 87
Anastasia State Recreation Area, xviii, Biscayne National Park, xxii, 91, 112 Cape San Blas, 205 Daytona Beach, 13, 23, 31, 33, 35
xx, 17 Black Island, 154 Captiva access ways, 150 Daytona Beach Shores, 37
Anclote Key, xviii, 117 Blackwater River State Park, 169 Carlin Park, 77 Deerfield Beach, 84, 85
Anna Maria Beach, 129, 130 Blind Creek access, 65 Carl Johnson Park, 154 Deerfield Island Park, 84
Anna Maria Key, 127 Blind Pass Beach, 141 Carrabelle Beach, 211 DeFuniak Springs, 187
Apalachicola, 209 Blowing Rocks Beach, 77 Casey Key, 135 Delray Public Beach, 79
Apollo Beach, xxi, 38 Blue crabs, 184 Casino Beach, 173 DeSoto National Memorial, xxi
Archibald Memorial Beach, 121 Blue Mountain Beach, 188 Caspersen Park Beach, 141 Destin, 177
Artificial reefs, 134 Boating, 29 Cayo Costa Island Park, 149, 150 Diver's flag, 185
Atlantic Beach, 9, 11 Bob Graham Beach, 71 Cayo Hueso (Bone Key), 103 Dixie Beach, 154
Atlantic Dunes Park, 79 Boca Grande access ways, 150 Charlotte County, 143-46 Dog Island, 211
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, 6 Boca Grande Beach, 150 Charlotte Harbour, 143 Dolphins, 20
Avalon Park access, 63 Bonita Beach, 154 Cherie Down Park, 49 Don Pedro Island complex, 144
A. W. Young Park, 57 Bowman's Beach, 154 Clam Pass/Pelican Bay South, 161 Drive-on beaches, 13
Boynton Inlet Park, 78 Clarence Higgs Memorial Beach, 107 Dr. Julian G. Bruce Memorial
B Boynton Public Beach, 79 Clearwater Beach, 118 Park, 211
Bahia-Honda State Recreation Area, Bradenton Beach, 132, 133 Clearwater Beach Island, 117 Dry Tortugas, 103
xviii, xx, 109 Brevard County, xix, xxi, 43-51 Clearwater Beach Park, 117 DuBois Park, 7
Bal Harbor/Surfside, 93 Brohard Park Beach, 141 Coastal Management Program, 58 Dune Allen Beach (Walline Park), 188
Banyan Rd. access, 63 Broward County, xviii, xix, 83-88 Coastal state parks, xvii Dunedin Beach, 117
Bath Tub Reef, 71 Brown pelican, 142 Cocoa Beach, 47, 48 Dune grasses, 201
Bay County, xix, 191-200 Bryn Mawr access, 63 Coconut Drive Park, 63 Duval County, xix, 7-12
Bay County Pier and Park, 195 Bunch Beach, 154 Collier County, xix, 158-64
Bayfront Park, 129 Burney Henderson Beach State Recre- Collins Park, 95 E
Beach erosion and restoration, 89 ation Area, 177, 180 Conn Beach, 57 East Cape, 105
Beach Highlands, 188 Butler Beach, 17 Coquina Beach, 129 Eastern Keys, 106
Beacon Hill Public Beach, 205 Coral, 185 Edgewater Beach, 38
Beer Can Island, 129 C Coral Cove Park (Blowing Rocks Endangered Species Act of 1973, 81
Belair Beach, 197, 198 Caladesi Island State Park, xviii, Beach), 77 Englewood Beach, 144
Belleair Beach, 120 115, 117 Coral reef parks, 112 Escambia County, xviii, xix, xxi,
Belleair Shores Beach access, 119 Canaveral National Seashore/Apollo Corkscrew Sanctuary, 159 170-76
Bicentennial Park, 49 Beach, xxi, 38 Cortez Beach, 129 Estero Island, 156
Bicycle laws, 146 Canaveral National Seashore/Klondike Crabs, 184 Everglades National Park, xxii, 103,
Big Cypress National Preserve, 159 Beach, xxi, 44 Crandon Park, 91, 98 105, 159

215

Exchange Park, 63 Graveyard Creek, 105 Howard County Park, 117 K
Explosives, ban-on, 185 Grayton Beach State Recreation Area, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, xviii, Key Biscayne, 98
xviii, xx, 187, 190 83, 86 Key Largo Coral Reef Marine Sanctu-
F Gulf County, xix, 202-6 Huguenot Memorial Park, 9 ary, 112
Fernandina Beach, xviii, 3, 5 Gulf Drive Area/Biltmore Beach ac- Humiston Beach Park, 57 Key West, 103, 110
Fishing, saltwater, 40, 183 cess, 197 Klondike Beach, xxi, 44
Flagler Beach Municipal Beach, 25 Gulf Islands National Seashore/Fort
Flagler Beach State Recreation Area, Pickens and Langdon Beach, I
xviii, xx, 23, 25, 27 xxi, 173 Indianantic, 5 Laguna Beach/Santa Monica, 195
Indian Beach Park, 95
Flagler County, xviii, xix, 23-27 Gulf Island National Seashore/Naval Harbor Beach, 49 Lake Worth Beach, 75, 78
Flamingo Visitors' Center, 105 Live Oaks, 173 Indian Lantana Park, 78
Florida Keys, 103 Gulf Islands National Seashore/ Indian k, 141 Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, 86
Flowing Well, 154 Okaloosa Area, 177, 180 Indian Pass, 205 Laws: bicycle, 146; endangered spe-
Forest zone, 68 Gulf Islands National Seashore/ Indian Passx,25 cies, 81; mammal protection, 133;
Fort Clinch State Park, xviii, xx, 3, 5 Perdido Key and Johnson Beach, Indian River Coresyalkway,357 saltwater fishing limits, 183; turtle
Fort DeSoto County Park, 115 xxi, 171 Indian R ocks Wach , 19 protection, 39
Fort Jefferson National Monument, Gulf Islands National Seashore/Santa Indian Rores Beach, 119 Lee County, 148-56
107, 110 Rosa Recreational Facility, xxi, Lely Barefoot Beach, 161
Fort Lauderdale Beach, 83, 86 175 Lido Beach, 137
Fort Matanzas National Monument, Gulfside City Park/Algiers Beach, J Lido Key, 135
xxi, 15 154 Jack Island State Preserve, 61, 63 Lighthouse Beach Park, 150
Fort Myers, 149 Gulf Stream County Park, 79 Jacksonville Beach, 9, 12 Lighthouse Park, 154
Fort Myers Beach, 154 Jaycee Park (Indian River Co.), 57 Little Duck Key County Park, 109
Fort Pierce Beach, 61, 62, 63 H Jaycee Park (St. Lucie Co.), 63 Little Talbot Island State Park, xix,xx, 9
Fort Pierce Inlet State Recreation Hallandale Beach, 87 Jensen Beach Park, 71 Liza Jackson Park, 180
Area, xviii, 63 Hannah Park, 9 John C. Beasley Park, 180 Loggerhead Park (Pegasus Park), 77
Fort Walton Beach, 177, 182 Harry Harris County Park, 107 John D. MacArthur State Recreation Loggia Beach, 93
Fort Walton Temple Mound, 177 Haulover Beach, 93 Area, 75, 77 Long Beach, 132
Four Mile Village, 188 Herman's Bay access, 65 John F. Kennedy Space Center, 43 Longboat Key, 127,135,136
Frank B. Butler Park, 17 Hobe Sound Beach, 71 John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Lengboat Key Beach access, 129
Franklin County, xix, 209-13 Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, Park, xviii, xx, 107, 112 Longboat Key beaches, 137
Frederick Douglass Memorial Park, 65 69, 71 Johns Pass Beach and Park, 121 Long Key State Recreation Area,
Hollywood Beach (Bay Co.), 195 John U. Lloyd Beach State Recreation xix, 107
G Hollywood Beach (Broward Co.), Area, xix, 87 Long Point Park, 50
Gamier Beach, 180 87, 88 Jonathan Dickinson State Park, 69 Lori Wilson Park, 48
Gasparilla Island, 149, 152 Holmes Beach, 129, 130, 133 Juno Beach Park, 77 Lostmans Key, 105
George Smathers Beach, 107 Honeymoon Island State Park, Jupiter Beach Park, 77 Lover's Key Beach/Black Island/Carl
Golden Beach, 93 xviii, 117 Jupiter Island Park (Martin Co.), 71 Johnson Park, 154
Government Cut Park, 95 House of Refuge Beach, 71 Jupiter Island Park (Palm Beach Lowdermilk Park, 161
Government Tracking Station, 57 Howard Beach (Diamond Head), 77 Co.), 77 Lummus Park, 95

216

M Naples Municipal Beach, 161 Panama City Beach, 195, 196 Redington Shores County Park,
MacArthur State Recreation Area, Nassau County, xviii, 3-5 Paradise Beach Park, 46 78, 121
75, 77 National beach areas, xxi Park Avenue Park, 57 Red Reef Park, 79
McWilliams Park, 57 Navarre Beach, 176 Park Shore Beach, 161 Richard G. Kreusler Park, 78
Madeira Beach, 122 Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, 175 Pass-a-Grille Beach Park, 125 Riverfront Park, 57
Madeira Beach access, 121 Navarre Beach public access, 175 Pelican Bay South, 161 Riviera Beach Municipal Park, 77
Madeira Beach County Park, 121 Neptune Beach, 9, 11 Pelican Beach Park, 49 Rookery Bay National Estuarine Sanc-
Manapalan Beach, 78 Newman Brackin Wayside Park/Oka- Pelicans, other seabirds, 185 tuary, 159
Manasota Beach, 135, 141 loosa Island Pier, 180 Pensacola, 170 Ross Marler Park, 180
Manatees, 126, 184 New Smyrna Beach, 33, 37 Pensacola Beach, 174 Round Island Park, 57
Manatee County, 127-33 Nokomis Beach, 141 Pensacola Beach public access, 173 Royal Palm Way access, 63
Manatee County Beach, 129 Normandy Beach access, 65 Pepper Beach State Park and Visitors'
Mandalay Park, 117 North Beach, 17 Center, xviii, 63 S
Mangrove, 165 North County Walkway, 54 Perdido Key State Preserve, xix, 171 St. Andrews State Recreation Area,
Manta ray, 184 North Jetty Park (St. Lucie Co.), 63 Phillips Inlet Area, 190 xix, xx, 191, 197
Marathon Recreation Complex, 109 North Jetty Park (Sarasota Co.), 141 Phipps Ocean Park, 78 St. Augustine Beach, xxiii, 13, 17
Marineland Acres, 184 North Lido Beach, 137 Pier Park, 95 St. George Island, 211
Marine life, dangerous, 28 North Patrick Beach, 48 Pinellas County, xviii, 114-25 St. George Island State Park/Dr.
Marine Mammal Protection Act of North Redington Beach access, 121 Playalinda Beach, xxi, 44 Julian G. Bruce, xix, xx, 211
1972, 133 North Sand Key, 105 Point Marco Beach, 161 St. Joe Beach, 205
Martin County, xix, 69-72 North Shore Ocean Front Park, 95 Pompano Beach, 84 St. Joe Beach-Port St. Joe, 205
Martin County Park, 71 North Shore Park, 95 Ponce Inlet Park, 33 St. Johns County, xviii, xxii, 15-19
Matanzas Beach, 17 Northwest Cape, 105 Ponte Vedra Beach, 13, 17 St. Joseph Peninsula State Park/T. H.
Matheson Hammock County Park, 98 Porpoises, 184 Stone Memorial, xix, xx, 205
Mayport, 7 0 Port Canaveral Jetty Park, 46 St. Lucie County, xviii, 61-65
Melbourne Beach, 51 Ocean Beach, 95 Port Charlotte, 143 St. Lucie Inlet State Recreational
Merritt Island, 38, 43 Ocean Front Park, 95 Port Charlotte Beach Park, 144 Area, xix
Mexico Beach, 200 Ocean Ridge Hammock Park, 78 Port St. Joe, 205 St. Petersburg Municipal Beach, 125
Miami Beach, 91, 95, 96 Okaloosa County, xx, 177-82 Port St. Joe City Park, 205 St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge,
Miami Beach Beachfront Park and Okaloosa Island Pier, 180 Punta Gorda, 143 209, 211
Promenade, 101 Ormond Beach, 13, 31, 33, 35 Public access, xv-xvi Saltwater fishing piers, 40, 41
Middle Cape, 105 Ormand-by-the-Sea, 33, 34 Saltwater fishing laws, 183
Middle Cove access, 65 Sand Key County Park, 119
Miramar Beach, 188 P Qu, Sanibel, 154, 155
Monroe County, xviii, xix, 102-11 Palma Sola Causeway, 129 Sanibel Island, 149
Mullet, 67 Palm Beach County, 75-80 Santa Monica, 195
Mullet Key/Ft. DeSoto Park, 125 Palm Beach Municipal Beach, 78 R Santa Rosa County, 169-76
Palm Beach Shores Park, 77 Rabbit key, 105 Santa Rosa Island, 177, 182
N Palmer Point, 141 Redington Beach, 122 Santa Rosa Island/County Beach ac-
Naples, 159, 162 Panama City, 191 Redington Shores Beach, 121 cess, xxi, 180

217

Sarasota County, xxi, 135-41 South Beach, 107 Surfside Park, 63 V
Satellite Beach, 49 South Beach Ocean Park, 63 Swimming tips, 28 Vanderbilt Beach, 161
Save Our Coast, 207 South Beach Park (Palm Beach Switlick County Park, 109 Venice, 135
Scrub zone, 201 Co.), 79 Venice Municipal Beach, 141
Seafood, 66 South Beach Park (Indian River T Vero Beach, 53, 56, 57
Sea turtles, 39 Co.), 57 T. H. Stone Memorial Park, 205 Vilano Beach, 17, 18
Seagrove Beach, 190 South Cocoa Beach, 48 Tigertail Beach, 161 Virginia Beach, 98
Seaway Drive access, 63 South County Walkway, 54 "The Rocks," 23, 25 Volusia County, xxi, 31-38
Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area, South Inlet Park, 79 Treasure Island, 123
xix, xx, 50, 53, 54 South Jetty Park, 63 Treasure Island Beach, 121 W
Seminole Blvd. access, 63 South Lido Beach, 137 Treasure Island Beach access, 121 Wabasso Beach Park, 54
Sexton Plaza, 57 South Patrick Beach, 49 Turkey Key, 105 Walline Park, 188
Sharks, 67 South Ponte Vedra, 17 Turner Beach, 154 Walton County, xviii, 187-90
Shell collecting, southwest coast, 157 Spanish River Park, 79 Turtle Beach, 137 Washington Oaks State Park, xix,
Sheppard Park, 48 Spearfishing, 184 Turtles: marine, 184; sea, 39 23, 25
Shoreline Park, 175 Spessard Holland Park, 50 Water safety, 28-29
Shrimp, 66 Stuart Beach, 69, 71 U West Coast Intracoastal Water-
Sidney Fisher Park, 48 Sunny Isles Beach & Pier, 93 Underwater archaeology, 73 way, 147
Siesta Key, 135, 138 Sunnyside Beach, 195 Unnamed beach (St. Johns Co.), 17 Western Keys, 106
Siesta Key Beach accesses, 137 Sunset Beach, 117 Unnamed beaches (EscambiaCo.), 173 Wiggins Pass State Recreation Area,
Siesta Key Beach Park, 137 Surf Drive Area/Belair Beach Upham Beach, 125 xix, 161
Silver Beach Wayside Park, 180 access, 197 Upper Matecumbe County Park, 107 Wilbur-by-the-Sea, 33, 37
Sixty-fifth Street Park, 95 Surfside, 93 Usina's Beach, 17

218