Don Pedro Island State Park

Part of the Gulf Coast barrier islands, Don Pedro lies near the more popular Gasparilla Island. Eleven nature trails weave past giant leather ferns on 225 acres, where you can fish off the dock for flounder, snook, and trout.

Be sure to: Look for endangered gopher tortoises while beachcombing.

How to get there: By private boat, or take the Grande Tours ferry service in Placida; 941/697-8825 or grandetours.com. For more info, call 850/245-2157 or visit floridastateparks.org.