Anclote Key Preserve State Park is home to one of the area's favorite beaches. You can only get there by ferry from Honeymoon Island State Park or by private boat. There are three miles of trail to canoe or kayak through the mangroves. Be sure to bring your own refreshments and if you want to camp, bring a tent. Ecotours are available through Arts Aquatic Adventurers (see Resources).
Canoeing and kayaking are available at Honeymoon Island State Park. The park gets its name from the 50 bungalows built there with palm-thatched roofs. There are over four miles of trail where rowers can explore Pelican Cove -- an inlet that lies between a nature trail and a sand spit. The cove is also an ideal place to fish and swim. It's one of the best places for shelling and there is a pet beach nearby. Other recreational activities include hiking trails, bird watching and picnicking. Concessions and restrooms facilities are on the premises. Guided tours and rental boats are also offered.
The Largo Central Park Nature Preserve has over five miles of canoe trails on its 31 acres. The park is surrounded by water, and nature abounds along the shores. Over 130 bird species, the American alligator, red foxes and bats all live in the preserve. Visitors may also enjoy catch-and-release fishing and hiking/biking trails. Other attractions include a two-story observation deck and a butterfly garden.
Fort De Soto Park offers two and a half miles of canoe trails. The 1,136-acre park is home to over three miles of the white sandy beach the area is famous for. There are two fishing piers complete with concession for bait and food. Accommodations for 238 family campsites include restrooms, showers, grills, picnic tables and washer and dryer facilities.
