March in Florida is a wonderful time for nature adventures, as the weather is generally mild and many wildlife activities peak during this month. Here are some top nature adventures you can enjoy in Florida that are especially noteworthy in March:
1. Manatee Viewing
While manatee viewing is excellent throughout the winter months, March is often the last month to see large numbers before they disperse. Visit these prime spots:
- Crystal River: The waters remain clear, and manatees are still congregating.
- Blue Spring State Park: Offers one of the best manatee viewing experiences as they begin to leave the warm spring waters.
2. Birdwatching
March is a fantastic month for birdwatching in Florida as migratory birds return north and resident birds begin nesting. Key locations include:
- Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: A hotspot for a wide variety of bird species.
- Everglades National Park: Home to an incredible diversity of wading birds, raptors, and more.
- Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge: Known for its rich birdlife during this transitional season.
3. Exploring the Everglades
March offers ideal weather for exploring the Everglades with cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitoes. Activities include:
- Airboat Tours: Glide through the sawgrass marshes and spot alligators and birds.
- Kayaking/Canoeing: Paddle through mangrove tunnels for an up-close view of wildlife.
- Hiking: Trails like the Anhinga Trail offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
4. Whale Watching
The North Atlantic right whale migration season continues into March. Look for these endangered whales off the coast of:
- St. Augustine
- Jacksonville
- Fernandina Beach
5. Hiking and Camping
March’s mild temperatures make it perfect for hiking and camping in Florida’s state and national parks. Consider:
- Ocala National Forest: Offers diverse hiking trails and picturesque campgrounds.
- Myakka River State Park: Known for its scenic trails, canopy walk, and wildlife viewing.
- Big Cypress National Preserve: Explore the unique landscape and spot native wildlife.
6. Fishing for Redfish and Snook
March is an excellent month for fishing in Florida, particularly for redfish and snook. Cooler temperatures bring these fish closer to shore. Prime fishing spots include:
- Mosquito Lagoon
- Indian River Lagoon
- Charlotte Harbor
7. Kayaking and Canoeing
Enjoy the mild weather with a kayaking or canoeing adventure in Florida’s beautiful waterways. Popular destinations include:
- Silver Springs State Park: Paddle through crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Wekiva River: Offers a serene paddling experience with abundant wildlife.
- 10,000 Islands: Explore the maze of mangrove islands and observe diverse marine life.
8. Exploring Dry Tortugas National Park
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park offers pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling, and the historic Fort Jefferson. March’s pleasant weather and clear skies make it an ideal time to visit.
9. Attending Nature and Wildlife Festivals
March hosts several nature and wildlife festivals in Florida, where you can participate in guided tours, workshops, and lectures. Notable festivals include:
- Florida Wildflower and Garden Festival in DeLand: Celebrate Florida’s native wildflowers and gardening.
- Florida Birding and Nature Festival in Tampa Bay: Offers birding tours, nature photography workshops, and more.
- Everglades Seafood Festival in Everglades City: Enjoy fresh seafood and learn about the local environment.
10. Shelling on Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is renowned for its shelling opportunities. March’s lower tides and pleasant weather make it an ideal time for beachcombing and finding a variety of seashells, particularly along Bowman’s Beach and Lighthouse Beach.
11. Wildlife Viewing at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Located near Gainesville, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities in March. The park’s observation towers and trails provide excellent vantage points to see bison, wild horses, alligators, and a variety of bird species.
12. Exploring Florida’s Springs
The clear, cool waters of Florida’s springs are refreshing year-round, and March’s mild weather makes for a comfortable visit. Explore springs such as:
- Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Enjoy tubing, snorkeling, and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
- Ginnie Springs: Known for its clear waters and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving.
- Silver Springs State Park: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see underwater life.
13. Butterfly Watching at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is particularly vibrant in March, with many species of butterflies active in the warm weather. The controlled environment of the conservatory offers a colorful and lively spectacle.
14. Exploring State Parks
Florida’s state parks offer diverse landscapes and outdoor activities. In March, the weather is perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of parks such as:
- Anastasia State Park: Near St. Augustine, this park features beautiful beaches, tidal marshes, and sand dunes.
- Hontoon Island State Park: Accessible only by boat, this park offers hiking trails and opportunities to see native wildlife.
15. Watching the Sandhill Crane Migration
March is a prime time to observe the migration of sandhill cranes in central Florida. The birds gather in large numbers, creating spectacular viewing opportunities. Visit places like the Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park to see these majestic birds.
These unique nature adventures highlight the special experiences that Florida has to offer in March, from witnessing manatee gatherings and bird migrations to enjoying the mild weather and exploring pristine natural areas.