EAST FORT LAUDERDALE. This 180-acre park lies on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Inland Waterway. Popular for its tranquil beaches and swimming, salt water fishing, and surfing on the north shore. The area includes freshwater lagoons, mangrove swamps, and a hardwood coastal hammock. The park also boasts a nature walk, an exercise course, canoe rentals, picnic areas, and a concession stand. The Terramar Visitor Center is unmanned, but visitors can request a ranger-guided tour of the beach hammock nature trail.

DANIA. Four miles south of Fort Lauderdale, this 251-acre park offers a surprisingly peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding urban area. Uncrowded beaches, lovely views, shady picnic spots, and sea-turtle nesting areas attract visitors year-round. Manatees and abundant bird life can be found in the northern part of this park. A boat ramp to the Intercoastal Waterway is also available at the park. Reservations are required for the sea turtle program, which is offered at 9pm Wed and Fri nights during June-July. Canoe and kayak rentals, bait, and picnic supplies are available at the park's full-service Loggerhead Cafe.

WEST OF DAVIE. Fun way to learn about the Everglades. Visitors take a narrated airboat tour where the guide points out native flora and fauna. Next is the alligator and reptile exhibit. Then, travel through reconstructed Seminole villages where Indian guides explain tribal customs and history. Finally you'll visit the vanishing species exhibit, which includes birds and a Florida panther. The entire tour lasts about two hours. Afterwards, you may visit the gift shop or cafe for refreshments. Fishing licenses, guides, and boat rentals are also available.