The Healing Nature of the Outdoors

Florida’s Historic Coast has 42 miles of pristine beaches along the Atlantic, and every step along its white quartz sands leads to discovery inside and out. Whether you’re a seashell collector or a shark tooth seeker, you’ll find a special spot to call your own and be one with nature.

But there’s more than one way to experience the healing nature of the outdoors. Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and sportsmen alike will find lots to love from the water. From kayaking to surfing and sailing, miles of protected waters offer the opportunity to come up close to curious dolphins or a friendly manatee. And if you’ve never tried a full moon paddle boarding event or a SUP yoga session, this may be the perfect time to try one of the coolest ways to enjoy nature and recharge your spirit.

The waters that surround Florida’s Historic Coast are part of the 60,000-acre Guana, Tolomato, Matanzas National Estuary Research Reserve, the GTM. From Ponte Vedra Beach south to Marineland, this estuary contains extensive salt marshes, oyster beds and maritime hammocks. A perfect opportunity to cast a line and try some fishing. Thanks to a favorable, year-round climate, it’s always fishing season here. And whether you’re a saltwater or freshwater angler, you’ll find plenty of nooks and “honey holes” where you can drop your line.

Of course, landlubbers have their own ways to connect with nature on Florida’s Historic Coast as they pitch tents or camp RVs near pristine beaches, under maritime hammocks and alongside natural springs. Our state parks offer a diversity of activities as well, from birdwatching and hiking trails to swimming and kayaking.

If biking is more your speed, you’re in luck. St. Augustine is a bike-friendly town. And what a great way to see the ancient city, explore our beautiful side streets downtown and stop along the way to enjoy some local culture. There are even trails that can take you through rural hamlets, coastal dunes and wildlife refuges.

So, as you start to make plans for future travels, make sure to include some time to restore, rejuvenate and recharge your spirit. Nature has a way of healing what ails you and Florida’s Historic Coast has just the dosage of outdoors you need.