Written by: Emily Joswiak • January 31, 2023• Lifestyle

Things You Should Know Before Visiting the Everglades

As a Floridian, embracing the natural beauty around us is key. When visiting the Everglades, there are so many experiences to enjoy during your stay.

Whether you’re a Florida native or someone who recently moved, you should know that Florida is home to many national parks and unique animals. About an hour from Miami sits the Everglades, a 1.5-million-acre national park full of natural beauty. Bask in the warm weather and visit your local crocodiles, manatees, birds, and alligators while embracing the greenery and waterways.

Feeling adventurous? Take a journey on the many hiking and biking trails, or canoe, kayak, or airboat your way around the swamps. Breathtaking views and unique excursions are right in your backyard, but it’s important to know a few tips before heading on the road. Here are four important things to know before visiting the Everglades.

Avoid Visiting During Snowbird Season

Every Floridian knows that between October and March, an influx of visitors from all over the North-Eastern US come to south Florida to escape the cold. It’s always best to avoid the hot vacation spots during these months if you want to avoid large crowds. Stray away from theme parks and some beaches as well.

Tip: You can visit the Everglades early in the morning during summer months, allowing you to avoid crowds and beat the heat.

Which Part Should You Visit?

Before you visit the Everglades, you should know that there are four entrances to this 1.5-million-acre national park. Homestead has two entrances: the Royal Palm and Flamingo Visitor Center, and the other two entrances are west of Miami: the Gulf Coast Visitor Center and Shark Valley. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the traffic levels you face, it can take hours to drive between each entrance. Please plan wisely and don’t feel pressured to visit the entire national park in one day.

However, an airboat is the best way to experience most of the Everglades. Many authorized airboat businesses will love to tour you around and bring you up close and personal with the gators and birds.

Get a Permit Ahead of Time To Hunt

If you’re planning a family hunting or fishing trip in Florida, it’s important to be familiar with the state laws. The Everglades is a mix of saltwater and freshwater landscapes, making this the hub of all fisherpersons. However, you need a saltwater and freshwater fishing license to fish independently. You can obtain your fishing and hunting permits from the Florida Fishing and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Tip: It’s best to obtain permits ahead of time to avoid stress and headaches at the park caused by limited cell reception and internet services.

The Everglades Is Home to Unique Species

The Florida Everglades is home to many unique species, including 39 Native Florida species, including the Florida panther, snail kite, and American alligator. While visiting, you will get a sneak peek at the more than 300 species of fish, insects, birds, and reptiles. If you don’t know where to start, you can have a park ranger help you and your family as you explore the water trails or hike along the Everglades.

Embrace Florida’s beauty with a frozen lemonade while birdwatching or feel the thrill on an airboat tour. There’s so much to discover at the Florida Everglades. Whether you’re looking for family fun or a relaxing day in the sun, the Everglades is the perfect place.

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Last modified: January 31, 2023