florida

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, NATIONAL PARKS

    Exploring the Everglades National Park with Kids 

    In Everglades National Park, the wonders of Florida’s diverse ecosystem come to life! Today, Bethany Augliere, a Florida mom and marine biologist, is here sharing her personal insights, tips, and recommendations for an unforgettable family adventure in this magnificent wilderness. Navigating the Everglades with kids can be a thrilling and educationally-enriching experience, and in this post, we’ll provide valuable tips on when to visit, what to expect, the best kid-friendly hiking trails, what you can expect when encounting unique marine and wildlife, camping recommendations, and much more. Are you ready to discover the Everglades?!

    exploring everglades national park with kid - when to go, where to start, what to do, trails to hike and more

    Everglades National Park with kids

    As someone who lives in South Florida with two adventurous young kids, I know that the Sunshine State offers so much more to families than trips to theme parks, including 11 national parks. These public lands range from the gator-filled swamps of Big Cypress National Preserve to the well-intact remains of Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park. But, perhaps the most famous is the 1.5 million-acre subtropical wilderness (equivalent to the size of Delaware) of the Everglades National Park in South Florida — a personal favorite.

    The Everglades National Park is also an international treasure, a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty. The Everglades is a massive park — the third largest in the lower 48 — and has so much to offer families. You can easily tailor your trip to meet the specific needs of your family, whether that includes a trek through a cypress swamp in a slough slog, kayaking the seagrass meadows of Florida Bay or an exhilarating airboat ride. 

    The Everglades is one of our favorite places for wildlife viewing and is home to iconic species like American alligators and roseate spoonbills to threatened animals, including the West Indian manatee and even American crocodiles. Yes, Florida even has crocodiles! The Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators co-existing. 

    exploring everglades national park with kids

    History of the Everglades

    The Everglades once covered 11,000 square miles of South Florida. 100 years ago, water flowed down the Kissimmee River into Lake Okeechobee, then south through the Everglades, and finally, into Florida Bay. The shallow. slow-moving water created the many habitats known in the Everglades, like ponds, sloughs, sawgrass marshes, and hardwood hammocks. While water in the Everglades is often referred to as swampy, the truth is, it’s more like a slow-flowing river. In fact, the Everglades were dubbed the River of Grass by Marjory Stoneman Douglas in 1947.

    Everything changed when early colonial settlers in the 1800s began to develop the region into farmland and communities. Developers dug canals to drain the wetlands. This alteration of the natural water flow in South Florida continued. In 1948, Congress authorized the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a system of roads, canals, levees, and water-control structures stretching throughout South Florida to continue draining the wetlands. As a result, the Everglades are now 50% of what they once were. 

    The alteration of the wetlands—combined with increasing population—damaged the natural system. According to the National Park Service, with the support of many early conservationists, scientists, and other advocates, Everglades National Park was established in 1947 to conserve the natural landscape and prevent further degradation of its land, plants, and animals.

    American Crocodile in Flamingo, Everglades National Park

    Crocodile or alligator?

    As I mentioned above, the Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators. How do you tell the difference between crocodiles and alligators?

    Crocodiles have a pointer, v-shaped snout, while alligators have a rounder, u-shaped snout. Alligators are more numerous in Florida and typically found in freshwater, while the more rare and elusive crocodile prefers salty or brackish water, as well as freshwater.

    When an alligator has its mouth shut, only their upper teeth are visible. When a crocodile has its mouth shut, it shows off a toothy grin with both upper and lower teeth visible.

    Lastly, alligators have a darker, almost black color, while crocodiles tend to be a lighter tan color. 

    everglades with kid - crocodiles and alligators

    Things to know before you go – Everglades National Park

    Three main entry points exist for the park: the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, which is closest to Naples and south of Everglades City, the Shark Valley area that can be accessed by US 41 (also known as the Tamiami Trail) and the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Homestead — the park’s main headquarters. Personally, I’ve spent the most time exploring the Homestead entrance.

    The three entrances are not connected due to the swampy terrain of the park. Therefore, you won’t be able to enter the park in one region and drive through it to the others. They are also in different parts of the state. You’ll want to pick one region to explore in a day. As of right now, there is no advance reservation system needed to enter the park. 

    The Gulf Coast visitor access area serves as the gateway for exploring the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands and waterways that extends to Flamingo and Florida Bay accessible only by boat in this region. I’ve never explored this region of the park from this entrance, but it is on my list. The original Gulf Coast Visitor Center was destroyed by Hurricane Irma in September of 2017. The temporary Visitor Contact Station was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Visitor services are limited. 

    All park visitors are required to pay an entrance fee, which is $35 per vehicle. You can also use an interagency annual pass to enter. Visitor centers and entrance stations have set operating hours, but the park remains open 24/7.

    things to know about everglades national park entrances

    When to visit Everglades National Park with kids

    South Florida has two main seasons: wet season (which runs from June through October), and dry season (which runs from November through May). The dry season is more popular due to lower and more comfortable temperatures, lessening of mosquitoes, and an abundance of wildlife.

    In the dry season, temperatures reach average highs of 77°F and lows of 53°F. Sometimes, strong cold fronts bring even chillier weather! 

    I have to warn you, in the summer, the bugs are bad — really bad. During cooler months, the insects such as mosquitoes and biting flies may still occur in some areas and at dusk and dawn. Come prepared with mosquito repellent, and maybe even head nets or bug jackets. 

    One thing about the dry season that makes for better wildlife viewing is lower water levels due to less rain. This means that the animals gather around water holes. There have been times when I’ve seen dozens of large alligators all in one small section of a trail. And during winter, the birdwatching is exceptional as many species fly south for warmer temperatures and breeding. In fact, the Everglades National Park is the most significant breeding ground for wading birds in North America, and it is a critical stopover habitat for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway, such as the Yellow-throated Warbler. 

    when to visit everglades national park with kids - best time of year

    Everglades National Park nature trails for kids

    Hiking in the Everglades means you can explore a variety of habitats, from tree islands to swamps, sawgrass marsh, and wet prairie. Most hikes are short, interpretive, flat trails that are perfect for young kids, especially because you can often see a lot of wildlife. 

    At the start of the Royal Palm Information Station and Bookstore, in the Homestead entrance, you can find two must-see trails, the Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail. Additionally, Ranger-led walks and talks are conducted here, and the visitor station includes a small bookstore, restrooms, and vending machines.

    Kid-friendly hiking trails

    Anhinga Trail: This trail is one of my favorites and if you do nothing else in the Everglades, you should do this! It’s a short 0.8-mile loop on a paved path with a boardwalk over the water. It always has good wildlife viewing, like gators, turtles, osprey, anhinga, cormorants, purple gallinules, black vultures, snakes and more. On this trail (and all trails really) I recommend taking your time and observing the wildlife. You’ll see anhingas swimming in the water and popping up with their bill piercing a fish they then juggle to toss down their throats. After a dive, they’ll often jump up to a branch and spread out their wings to dry their feathers, since they lack the oil glands other birds have to stay dry. 

    Gumbo Limbo Trail:  This 0.4-mile trail winds through through dense forest. It includes views of the famous Gumbo Limbo, affectionally known as the tourist tree. Why? Because its peeling red bark looks like the skin of a sunburnt tourist! 

    Pinelands Trail: An easy 0.4-mile paved trail through a pine forest, one of the many habitats found in Everglades National Park.

    Mahogany Hammock Trail: This 0.5-mile boardwalk trail meanders through a dense, jungle-like hardwood hammock. Plants include gumbo-limbo trees, air plants, and the largest living mahogany tree (Swietenia mahogani) in the United States. Because the park is so remote, this trail’s parking lot is one of the best to view the International Space Station if you take an evening star walk or drive,

    Pa-hay-okee Trail: This is a very easy .2-mile boardwalk loop where you can view the iconic sawgrass prairie. 

    Eco Pond Trail: This half-mile loop around a pond is great for bird watching. 

    Bobcat boardwalk: A short, easy 1-mile out and back trail through a sawgrass slough and hardwood forest. This trail is accessed at the Shark Valley entrance. 

    Otter Cave Hammock Trail: A 0.5-mile out-and-back rough limestone trail through a tropical hardwood forest with small footbridges over a small stream. Check at the Shark Valley Visitor Center for the current conditions of the trail; it sometimes can be flooded during the summer.

    Kayaking with kids in the Florida Everglades National Park

    Exploring Everglades via boat

    If you know anything about me, you know I love the water. In the Everglades, you can explore the water — both fresh and salt — in a variety of ways. One thing to note is that water levels vary drastically by season, and some trails can become dry and require carrying the canoe or kayak. The trails also vary from beginner to advanced, and can be as long or short as you want, depending on where you go. So, always check conditions before you head out, stay within your limits of paddling, and have a plan.

    Remember too, this is the home of crocodiles and alligators, which you will undoubtedly see. Keep a safe distance when observing the large reptiles— especially during breeding season when males are more active and territorial, and give lots of space to nesting mothers. 

    Kayaks and canoes

    You can bring your own kayak or canoe, and there are also two places to rent canoes and kayaks within the park, one in Flamingo at the Homestead entrance and the west side of the park at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. 

    Boat tours and airboats

    Flamingo also offers two 90-minute boat tour rides, one into the Everglades freshwater backcountry and another into Florida Bay. When it comes to taking boat tours with kids, I recommend bringing a lot of snacks and water to keep them occupied, especially if they are younger. Flamingo is one of the best places to see crocodiles and manatees, so be sure to spend some time walking around the marina. 

    Boat tour tickets may be purchased in the Marina Store. Visit http://www.flamingoeverglades.com or call (352) 701-6581 for more information. Boat tours of Whitewater Bay and Florida Bay depart from the Flamingo Marina located next to the Flamingo Visitor Center (38 miles into the park, 50 miles from Homestead, Fla). 

    I’ve only ever done one airboat ride in my life, and the one I went to fed marshmallows to wild alligators, which upset me. I’ve heard of other places where they feed and jump in with the human-habituated wild alligators. If you want to do an airboat tour, I recommend going with a company that is partnered with the National Park Service. They have a list of operators here. If you’ve never done an airboat ride, know that they are LOUD. I wouldn’t recommend it for a sensory sensitive child and for infants or toddlers, just make sure to request noise-cancelling headphones to protect their ears. The airboats are also fast and open, with no railings on the side. If you bring squirmy toddlers, be prepared to hold them tight. 

    Camping in Everglades National Park

    If you’re interested in camping, there are just campgrounds in the park: Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground. Both are accessible from the Homestead entrance and accommodate tents and RV’s with a limited number of group sites. You can make reservations with Everglades Guest Services or by calling 1-855-708-2207.

    The Flamingo campground, which is at the very end of the park — about 45-minutes from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center — offers solar-heated showers, two dump stations, picnic tables, grills, and an amphitheater for seasonal Ranger programs. And newly available are safari-style Eco tents, complete with fans and electricity (I haven’t tried these out yet, but they look nice)! 

    Long Pine Key campground is open seasonally November-May, and is just a few miles from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. This campground has cold showers, restrooms, a dump station, and a fill station.  

    Shark Valley tram and bike rentals

    If you’re headed to the Shark Valley entrance, the 15-mile path is best viewed via a 2-hour tram ride or bike ride (I don’t recommend walking it).  Halfway through the trail, there is a 45-foot high observation tower, a water fountain with a water bottle refill station, and restrooms. 

    The two short hikes great for walking and kids (mentioned above) can be started close to the visitor center, where you can also purchase tickets for the tram or rent bikes. If you have young kids, you can also request bikes with seat attachment for children up to 40 pounds. 

    If you decide to bike, note that there is virtually no shade on the path. Also, Florida is the lightning capital of the U.S. Check the weather so you don’t get caught in a storm. Most of the thunderstorms occur during the mid to late afternoon hours, so the best riding times are in the morning when it’s still a little cooler.

    If you opt for the tram, the tour operator gives you lots of info about the Everglades, the animals, the history of the observation tower, and more. 

    Prices for the tram ride:

    • Adults (13-61) $31.00
    • Seniors (62+) $24.00
    • Children (3-12) $16.00

    Slough slog

    Most people wouldn’t dream of stepping foot off-trail and into the gator-infested waters of the Everglades. But that’s exactly what happens if you decide to take a slough slog. Unless you are going with someone who has gone before and knows what they are doing, I suggest doing this with the NPS ranger-led program,

    You’ll trek through a a sawgrass prairie before making your way into the shallow, swamp-like body of water of a cypress dome — a freshwater forested wetland that appears like a tree island. The name comes from the dome-like shape of treetops, formed by smaller trees growing on the edge where the water is shallow, while taller trees grow at the center in deeper water.

    During a slough slog, the water could get up to your waist at some points.  It’s quiet, peaceful (or maybe a bit nerve-wracking), and as you journey into the cypress trees covered in air plants, it feels like entering an entirely different world — like something out of a fantasy film. You might pass an alligator hole, hear the prehistoric call of a great blue heron, glimpse owls, snakes, tree frogs and more. Seriously, watch where you put your hand because mine has come a bit too-close-for-comfort to a resting cottonmouth. It’s honestly one of my favorite things to do in the Everglades and share with any willing friend who will join me! If you have younger kids, just check with rangers about water levels. 

    Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger program

    Like many US national parks, the Everglades has tons of ranger-led programs and walks, from guided hikes and bird-watching to slough slogs and guided paddles. 

    We love the Junior Ranger program at the National Parks and state parks when they have them, and have done them at several across the country. We recently even did a Junior Refuge Manager Program at the Arthur M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in South Florida, which was new to us. I highly recommend doing this as an activity during your trip.

    The Everglades provides an online digital copy of the booklet you can request as well, and free coloring pages are provided on the website. 

    Robert is Here is fruit stand

    Robert is Here fruit stand

    As a side note, if you’re going to the Homestead entrance, a stop at the Robert is Here Fruit Stand is a must. The fruit stand is family-owned and operated and specializes in rare and exotic fruits and vegetables, like canistel, guava, dragon fruit, sapodilla, and mamey, mostly grown right on the farm. Every day, the staff hand-cuts the fruit for their smoothies and milkshakes. I personally love the key lime milkshake or any smoothies with guava and passionfruit. 

    Have you ever been to Everglades National Park? 

    About the author

    Bethany Augliere is a marine biologist, conservationist, and storyteller. She has always been inspired to encourage people to fall in love with nature and explore their own backyard, in hopes of instilling a desire to help protect the Earth and its creatures — especially the ocean. Her work has brought her eye-to-eye with giant tiger sharks, playful dolphins, curious manta rays, and gentle manatees. Now, as a mom, she aspires to share those adventures with her family, whether it’s kayaking in the Everglades or searching for shark teeth on the beach.

    You can find more from Bethany online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wilder_seas
    Facebook: @bethanyaugliere
    Website: http://www.bethanyaugliere.com
    RWMC posts: Bethany Augliere

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, FISH, INFORMATION, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Outdoor Adventures in Destin-Fort Walton Beach with Kids

    It’s no secret that we love showcasing fun and unique outdoor adventure destinations and locations here at RWMC. We often write about the importance of adventuring together as a family and how much that benefits everyone and solidifies family bonds. But even better than writing about it is getting to experience those bonding moments with my own family and create memories together. So today, I’m excited to share with you a bit about our family’s recent trip to Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida and all the outdoor adventures the area has to offer families. There are so many amazing adventures to be had in Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids! If the destination isn’t yet on your family’s bucket list, it should be! Let me tell you why…

    *This post was sponsored by Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Activities and accommodations were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.

    best outdoor adventures and things to do in destin fort walton beach with kids

    Traveling with kids

    There’s something both magical and exhausting about traveling to a new place with kids. Yes, traveling with kids can mean endless whining, interruptions to your daily routine, and stress on mom to make the most out of the trip. But, it can also be an opportunity to make life-long memories, cultivate of love of adventure, and take some healthy risks by trying new things. Travel has been proven to have significant benefits for everyone in the family. So while it’s exhausting, it’s also totally worth it. 

    Traveling to a new place and partaking in exciting new experiences with your kids is an amazing way to bond with your family. Our busy schedules often make it difficult for families to spend much quality time together on a day-to-day basis. But when you travel, you put aside your typical responsibilities and commitments so that you can be truly present with one another. 

    Travel also allows you to learn new things about one another and try out exciting experiences that you otherwise might not have had the chance to. Experiencing new things together with those you love and trust helps boost your kids’ confidence and fosters independence. And getting outside in a place that looks and feels different than it does at home gives your children a whole new appreciation for the natural world and the diversity of life. 

    Traveling with family can be one of the most rewarding adventures you can have together. However, you do not need to travel all over the country or world to provide your kids with the benefits that family vacations generate. Sometimes, adventure is closer than you think!

    exploring destin with kids

    Exploring Destin-Fort Walton Beach

    My kids and I recently had the opportunity to spend some time in and around Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, to check out some of the amazing things to do outside with kids. I’ve been curious about the destination for years, but this was my first time visiting and really getting to know the area. Boy, am I glad we did! We were blown away by the incredible outdoor adventure activities and unique experiences Destin-Fort Walton Beach has to offer families. 

    If you’re unfamiliar with the area, let me take a minute to set the stage. Destin-Fort Walton Beach is located on the Florida Panhandle, between Pensacola and Panama City Beach. The city of Destin is located on a peninsula separating the Gulf of Mexico from Choctawhatchee Bay. The city of Fort Walton Beach is located on the mainland, just west of Destin.

    The Gulf coast beaches are famous for their powdery, sugar-white sand and glistening emerald waters. The sand is made from finely ground quartz crystals that literally squeak beneath your bare feet! This gives the water in the area that famous blue-green hue that will take your breath away. On the other side, you’ll find Choctawhatchee Bay, a calm saltwater oasis perfect for wildlife and perfect for exploring. 

    destin fort walton beach with kidsisland beach resort fort walton beach

    Pack your trip with “Little Adventures”

    We’ve talked about how important it is to travel with your kids and try new things. But, when you’re exploring a new area, how do you find the best outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences? Researching activities can be time-consuming, and the number of options for guides, places, and rental shops can be overwhelming. That’s one of the reasons why we love it when destinations take it upon themselves to help families find unique location-specific outdoor activities in their location – because they know the area best! 

    Destin-Fort Walton Beach has done just that! They’re committed to helping families get outside in the area and see all the amazing things they have to offer. They’ve made exploring Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids fun and easy!

    Working with local moms, they’ve put together bite-sized family-friendly “Little Adventures” that feature unique experiences for families to get out on the water. It’s “done-for-you” outdoor adventure planning, so you just have to show up and have fun! The Little Adventures activities are things like deep-sea fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, tidepooling, dolphin cruises, sailing, snorkeling, surfing, camping, and more! 

    Don’t know what Little Adventure you want to do? All the available Little Adventure activities are searchable by price, age of your children, interest, and how much time they take. Or live chat with a local mom, right there on the website and get tailored recommendations for family fun and all your questions answered. You could also check out their Little Adventures map to see what activities are close to you. Kudos to Destin-Fort Walton Beach for making getting outside with kids super easy for moms! 

    sunsets on the beach in destin - kids playing in the wavesspectre island - exploring destin fwb with kids

    Outdoor activities for families in Destin-Fort Walton Beach

    The combination of both Gulf Coast beach and inner bay means that the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area is the perfect location for water adventures of all kinds! And that’s exactly what my water babies wanted to do most. Of course, we highly recommend that you spend some time on the pristine beaches, playing in the white sand and emerald green waves. But, there’s so much more to this area than just beautiful beaches. It’s packed with outdoor adventures for everyone in your family, regardless of age, interest, or budget. 

    We had the opportunity to try out a few of the best outdoor Little Adventures the area has to offer. Needless to say, we were seriously impressed! There truly was something for all of us. My daughter fell madly in love with the white sand beaches and crystal clear water. My son took advantage of all the fish and native wildlife in the area. And I was blown away by the natural beauty of the areas we explored that were off the beaten path. 

    For every adventure we did, there were ten others we wanted to do (we’ll have to come back)! The Destin-Fort Walton Beach area truly is a magical family-friendly location. Here are some of the highlights from our trip that we’d love to recommend to you.

    fishing with kids in destin florida - inshore and deep sea fishingbest way to fish with kids in destin

    Fishing with kids in Destin

    Let’s start with our family’s favorite outdoor activity…fishing.

    Fishing with your kids is not only a fun bonding activity, but it’s also an incredible way to teach them about nature and conservation. Fishing lets you create amazing memories with your kids, filled with action and adventure. And, from the “circle of life” lesson that comes with using live bait to the “leave no trace” principle of cleaning up after people, fishing is a way that parents can instill a love of nature and respect for the environment from a very early age. 

    It’s nearly impossible to talk about Destin, Florida, without mentioning fishing. The area started out as a small fishing village built around the Destin Harbor and is now home to the world’s largest charter fishing fleet. The fishing boats line one side of the harbor from end to end and provide a livelihood for many locals, as well as adventure and entertainment for visitors. 

    With a reputation as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” fishing is obviously one of the top outdoor family activities in the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area. Hundred of boats are available to rent for both deep-sea and inshore fishing. If you want help catching the big one, local guides are available to show you the ropes and get you in the right place with the right bait. But, a do-it-yourself attitude will also suffice, and your family can catch tuna, mackerel, cobia, snapper, and many other species right off the shore (or pier) in various locations throughout the area. 

    deep sea fishing with kids destin - little adventures chartered fishing

    Deep-sea fishing with kids

    At the very top of our list of “must do” activities in Destin was deep-sea fishing. As I mentioned, we’re a fishing family, but deep-sea fishing is not something that we’ve had the opportunity to try (being landlocked makes it a bit difficult). But in Destin, deep-sea fishing is an experience all of itself! 

    There are hundreds of charter fishing boats available to take your family fishing in the area, making deep-sea fishing in Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids a great choice. And while you can certainly fish from the shore, deep-sea fishing is definitely something to try. Most charters offer half or full-day trips; we recommend starting out with a half-day trip if you have kids younger than 10. 

    Hiring a chartered fishing boat will give you a lot of advantages over going it on your own. Experienced captains will know all the top fishing spots, be able to supply you with bait, poles, lures, and other necessities (as well as fishing licenses), and coach you on how to catch and land some massive fish! Most boats have bathrooms and air-conditioned cabins so that you can escape the heat on a warm day. And the best part…a great captain will take care of all.the.things, so you don’t have to worry about the details and can actually enjoy your outing! 

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    Fishing with Captain Brandy of Disciple Ship

    We highly recommend hiring a fishing captain that’s good with kids and knows how to get them on the fish. Luckily, we hit a home run with Caption Brandy of the Disciple Ship for our deep-sea fishing Little Adventure. We met Brandy at her boat in HarborWalk Village in Destin bright and early on a Sunday morning. A mom of 5 and the daughter of a Destin fishing captain, she not only knows her stuff, but was absolutely fantastic with the kids. We went over the basics of what to expect and how to stay safe before heading out into the Gulf to get our fishing on! 

    The first stop of the adventure was to load up on bait. I’ll tell you right now…bait fishing was a blast! Every dip of your line into the water resulted in pulling up 2-5 shiny little fish (and battling the pelicans over them). We were catching fish faster than we could pop them off the line! We caught all kinds of little fish (and even a squid!) and listened intently as Brandy told us about what we were catching. If your kids are into fast-action fishing and learning about various fish species, they’ll love this part of the experience. 

    baitfishing destin floridadestin fort walton beach with kids

    Getting on the fish

    After you’ve loaded up with bait, it’s time to head out into the Gulf to fish. Captain Brandy immediately put us on the fish and pretty soon we were reeling in fish after fish. Our catch included red snapper, blackfin tuna, remora, triggerfish, and mahi. I was super impressed with how hard these fish can fight and the resulting strength and determination my 10-year old demonstrated in getting them to the boat. Yes, we missed a few big ones (including what we think was a huge grouper and possibly a shark or two), but we ended up with a great catch and huge smiles on our faces.

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    The reality of adventuring with kids

    Here at RWMC, we pride ourselves in being honest about our experiences (good and bad) so that we paint a realistic picture of how tough parenting outdoor kids can be. Traveling with kids and trying new things can be hard, and the adventure doesn’t always go as you expect. We still think it’s worth it to try (1000% worth it), but we also want you to know that it doesn’t always go smoothly (even for us), and misadventures happen. 

    Unfortunately, three of the four kids did not feel great on the boat. We took Dramamine before we left, made sure we had breakfast, brought plenty of water and snacks, and spent a lot of time staring at the horizon, but it wasn’t enough. Halfway into our fishing experience, we had to head back to shore to drop off sick kids. It broke my heart and theirs. It’s hard to see kids not feeling well, and they were all so disappointed not to be able to finish out the fishing trip. It was a tough decision but the right one. We split up, and three of the kids went back to the hotel to play on the beach (and felt totally fine once they were onshore), and I stayed with the kid that felt fine and continued fishing. 

    Be flexible; expect the unexpected

    It wasn’t what we wanted or expected, but I think we did the best we could in being flexible. Sometimes that’s all you can do in the situation. Sometimes adventures don’t go as planned, so being willing to make accommodations and roll with the punches can make a huge difference.

    Captain Brandy was so kind about the situation and understanding. She made sure my son got as much of an amazing deep sea experience as he could, with extra attention and lots of encouragement, and hands-on training. And the other kids had a blast playing on the beach and having some fruity frozen drinks. Of course, we were all disappointed that deep-sea fishing didn’t work out for everyone, but luckily, there are so many amazing things to do in Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids, that the alternatives are still pretty fantastic. 

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    Destin Fishing Rodeo

    The Destin Fishing Rodeo is a fishing competition that lasts the entire month of October. Originally started to bring some additional tourism to the area, it helps extend the tourist season into the fall and attracts fishermen and fisherwomen from around the world! Today, anyone can register to enter the competition, and there are multiple prizes awarded daily and monthly for the largest catch in each of the specified categories. 

    By chartering a boat, we were automatically entered into the Fishing Rodeo! (If you don’t charter a boat, you can still pay to register in one of the other categories and fish by kayak, SUP, private boat, or from the shore.) Each day, from 10 am until 7 pm, there are daily weigh-ins at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar in HarborWalk Village. The biggest fish make the daily leaderboard and qualify to win a cash prize!

    The best part is that every child who enters a fish in the Destin Fishing Rodeo that weighs one pound or more gets a rod and reel, and a certificate for framing! We were so excited to take our biggest fish to the weigh station and get entered in the competition. While he didn’t catch anything too big, my son still made the leaderboard and stayed there until the end of the day (when another kid’s catch overtook his). He didn’t even care that he didn’t win; he was just so excited to be a part of the whole experience.

    And what an experience it was! People were packed around the weigh station, watching the catch come in. The giant leaderboard was filled with some seriously impressive numbers. The announcers were making jokes, drinks were being passed around, and there was so much fun and excitement in the air. It was really something to see! 

    destin fishing rodeo tournament leaderboard - october 2022cleaning your catch - catch and cook little adventures - deep sea fishing with kidscatch and cook little adventures - destin Florida - east pass seafoodcatch and cook little adventures - destin Florida - east pass seafood

    Clean, catch & cook

    But the fun doesn’t end there. After our catch was weighed and recorded, it was time to clean the fish! Part of our fishing experience included getting to eat the fresh seafood that we caught, which we couldn’t do until it was cleaned and ready. Captian Brandy expertly showed my son how to clean the fish and got him involved in every aspect of the process. He loved taking care of his catch and it gave him so much pride to bag it all up and drop it off at East Pass Seafood, where they cooked it for us! 

    Talk about delicious! East Pass Seafood & Oyster House offers a “Hook & Cook” option for anyone that brings in their fresh catch. They’ll cook the fish for you – blackened, fried, or seared – and pair it with one of their amazing sides per person. We choose to get our fish seared, and accompanied by grits, corn, fries, and mashed potatoes. It was incredible! There’s something truly fantastic about eating fish you caught yourself just hours ago in the open air, as you sit by the water and watch the boats come it. What an experience!

    fishing boats in destin harbor - harborwalk villagefishing boats in destin harbor - harborwalk village

    HarborWalk Village

    Even if it’s not October during the Fishing Rodeo, the HarborWalk Village in Destin is worth checking out! The harbor is the active hub of the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village and the center of it all. Charter boats of every size are docked along the harbor and give the area the energetic vibe of an active fishing community. The village is packed with restaurants, boutiques, adventure activities (ziplining and bungee trampoline jumping, to name a few), bars, shops, and so much more. You can also book a fishing charter, dolphin cruise, a buccaneer pirate cruise, rent jet skis and wave runners, and more! 

    There’s usually live music playing from somewhere along the HarborWalk Village boardwalk, fish being cleaned, and seagulls flying overhead. It’s a great place to people-watch or chat with fishermen and boat captains. The kids loved the hustle and bustle of this vibrant fun area and begged to try everything there was to offer, from a little train that cruises through the streets to frozen lemonade and cotton candy. I loved that many of the restaurants have open air patios overlooking the harbor where you can relax and watch the boats come in and out of the harbor while sipping on a drink and enjoying fresh seafood and a gorgeous sunset! 

    beach weekend pontoon rental - fort walton beach floridapontoon rental destin florida - pontoons for families - beach weekend

    Pontoon rental for the day

    One of the best ways to really maximize your time on the water and get an up-close look at the entire Destin-Fort Walton Beach area is to explore the Choctawhatchee Bay by boat. Whether you choose a canoe, kayak, SUP, or pontoon, getting out in the Bay on a watercraft is a unique opportunity to explore the area’s gorgeous coastline and become familiar with the local wildlife. 

    We spent a glorious October day exploring the Bay in a pontoon we rented from Beach Weekend. Beach Weekend has a fleet of spacious pontoons that provide plenty of space and shade for your adventure. They hold up to 12 passengers and can be rented for full or half days. Upon check-in, you go over the safety rules and get boarded on your boat. Once you’re in the Bay, there’s so much to explore! You can make your way through the Bay observing wildlife or check out one of the many private sugar-white beaches. 

    crab island - pontoon rental - destin floridapontoon rentals for families - destin florida - little adventuresexploring crab island with kids - destin florida

    Exploring via pontoon

    What I loved about this adventure was the freedom it gave us to explore the area in a whole new way. With the entire day before us and a full tank of fuel, we got to do a little bit of everything that everyone on the boat enjoyed. We cruised around with the sun on our cheeks and wind in our hair. We stopped to let the boys do a little fishing in areas they felt were extra fishy. The girls splashed in the cool water and had a blast jumping off the boat. We explored the tidepools on the deserted Spectre Island and caught crab, minnows, and shrimp. We picnicked on the beach, relaxed with our toes in the sand, and enjoyed the kids’ squeals and excitement as they discovered another treasure. 

    rent a pontoon for the day and explore the Choctawhatchee Bay by boat - destin with kidstidepooling on spectre island - destin florida Spectre Island - Destin - Choctawhatchee Bay spectre island - destin fort walton beach with kids Spectre Island with Kids

    Spectre Island with Kids

    The pontoon was such a lovely way to get familiar with Destin Fort Walton beach with kids and allowed us to explore places we wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to check out. One of the best places to explore by boat is Spectre Island. Located just minutes west of Beach Weekend is a deserted little island in the middle of the sound. What started off as a dredging project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers years ago, is now one of the area’s best hangout spots by boat and the perfect place for kids to explore.

    Anchor your pontoon and let the kids run wild. There are so many open-ended fun things to do here. They can swim, fish, tidepool, snorkel, spot dolphins, paddleboard, build sandcastles on the beach, or walk around and explore. The opportunities are endless for natural unstructured free play and exploration in the untouched natural habitat. Gulfarium marine park - destin florida with kids Animal encounters at the Destin Gulfarium - Fort Walton Beach with kids

    Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

    Since we’re speaking about marine life, on our last day in Destin, we spent some time exploring the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, which was a short walk down the beach from our hotel. Our family loves visiting aquariums, probably because we’re all obsessed with fish and marine life and passionate about preserving it.

    The Gulfarium was a special treat and different from many of the aquariums we’ve been to due to their animal encounters program. This program is designed to educate and impassion guests to respect and preserve wildlife by providing unique and memorable up-close-and-personal animal encounters where you can interact with both the sea life and the caretakers. These unique encounters include holding baby alligators, feeding the sea lions, getting artwork done for you by a dolphin, lunching with the penguins, or snorkeling with sting rays! 

    The Gulfarium also hosts daily dolphin and sea lion shows, which we knew we had to attend! We thought the dolphin show was one of the best things we saw at the Gulfarium. The show was both educational (even I learned quite a bit) and entertaining. The bottlenose dolphins were really impressive, and the kids absolutely loved their performance. 

    dolphin show at the Gulfarium in Destindolphin show at the Gulfarium in Destin - destin with kids

    More about the Gulfarium

    Here are a few other things for families to note about the Gulfarium:

      • Make sure to check out the day’s schedule of chats, feedings and performances so you can plan your trip accordingly. The programs are great and you’ll want to be sure to get to each one a little early so that you can get a good spot/seat.
      • Gulfarium’s C.A.R.E. Center is a non-profit to facilitate and further coastal conservation efforts. Their specialty is sea turtles and the program has helped to rehabilitate and release hundred of sea turtles of various species found in the Gulf Coast, including Loggerhead, Green, Kemp’s ridley, and Leatherback.
    • Reservations are required if you want to book an animal encounter.
    • The Gulfarium is mostly outdoor and open air, right on the beach, with beautiful views.
    • There’s an on-site food and drink concession stand where you can get lunch, snacks, and drinks for the family.

    parlor doughnuts - destin Parlor Doughnuts - best donuts - destin fort walton beachThe best donuts in Destin-Fort Walton Beach - Parlor Doughnuts

    The best donuts in Destin-Fort Walton Beach

    No vacation with kids would be complete without a little sugar, so let’s talk for a minute about some of the best donuts I’ve ever eaten. I love a good donut and would consider myself a bit of a donut snob. We love checking out local donut shops when we travel, and most of the time, the donuts are pretty good. However, every now and then, we’ll find a donut shop that blows us away, and this was one of those times. Parlor Doughnuts in Fort Walton Beach was incredible. 

    Parlor Doughnuts offers their signature “layered donut,” which is different than the traditional cake or yeast style of donut. There are vegan/gluten-friendly and keto-friendly donuts, so there’s something for everyone in your family.  They also offer breakfast items such as acai bowls, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, and tacos. And, of course, specialty coffee. 

    Before heading out on your day of adventuring in Destin-Fort Walton beach with kids, we highly recommend fueling up at Parlor Doughnuts. If you have the chance to try the S’mores donut, do it!! 

    The best donuts in Destin-Fort Walton Beach - Parlor DoughnutsThe Island Resort - Destin Fort Walton Beach - destin with kids Best hotels for families in Destin Fort Walton Beach - Island Resort Best places to stay for families in Destin Fort Walton Beach FloridaEvening activities at the Island Resort Fort Walton Beach

    Where to stay: The Island Resort – Fort Walton Beach

    With so much to do in Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids, our days were filled with water activities and exploration, but in the evenings, the kids were thrilled just to swim in the pool and hang out at the hotel. Luckily, we stayed at The Island Resort, which is a beachfront property on Okaloosa Island, in between Destin and Fort Walton Beach.

    Family-friendly amenities and activities

    The Island Resort has everything we needed to hunker down and stay happy, fed, and entertained. While I love exploring and being out and about, it’s also so nice to stay in a hotel where you never have to leave, if you don’t want to! The Island Resort has multiple restaurants (and they were all delicious!), a few bars, a little travel shop with beach toys and souvenirs, two pools, a hot tub, a fitness center, laundry, and even a taco truck. They offer onsite activities during the day and evening – some of the activities offered while we were there were Harry Potter trivia, karaoke, poolside Monday night football on the giant inflatable screen, morning yoga, name-that-tune bingo, live music, and more! 

    The kids loved the swimming options – not only could you swim on the beach, there’s the large Grotto Pool (unheated), a second heated outdoor pool, and hot tub. The Grotto pool has a seasonal swim-up bar inside the cave and a real-life mermaid during the summer months! It was pretty cold in the pool when we were there in October, but that certainly didn’t keep my kids from enjoying it! I loved watching the sunsets over the pier on the beach, with a boat drink in hand. 

    Location, location, location

    The Island Resort is ideally located within walking distance of all kinds of amazing places and activities, including the Island Pier, the Gulfarium, John Beasley Park, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone, boat rentals, The Boardwalk, and all kinds of amazing restaurants and shops. It’s also right on the gorgeous white sand beach, with private beachfront access, daily chair and umbrella rentals, and a beachfront bar that makes the most amazing boat drinks. 

    The Island Resort - Fort Walton Beach - Best hotels for kids and familiesDestin-Fort Walton Beach with kids - Grotto pool, swim up bar and mermaid - The Island Resort

    Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids

    We hope that this post has shown you just how beautiful the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area is and how many amazing outdoor activities there are for families. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed water activity for your older kids, a toddler-friendly outing, or a relaxing planned-for-you adventure for a large family, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out the Little Adventures website for all the details and add a few to your itinerary.

    Let us know if/when you’ll be exploring Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids and if we can answer any of your questions! 

    Best Things to do in Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids

    Additional travel resources

    If you’re looking for a few more resources on the importance of traveling with kids and how to make it easier on everyone, be sure to check out the following articles:

    Outdoor adventures in Destin-Fort Walton Beach with kids

    Have we convinced you to add Destin to your family’s bucket list?

    About the author

    Sara McCarty is the founder of Run Wild My Child, a mom of 3, a wife, and a recovering corporate securities lawyer. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching. She loves to travel and showcase unique destinations with outdoor family-friendly activities. She’s passionate about reading, photography, oysters, plants, coffee, cooking, and key lime pie.

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, FISH, WATER

    Plan a Family Vacation in Gulf County, Florida

    It’s getting more and more challenging to find places to explore that aren’t overrun with crowds. Places where you can get away from the hustle and easily spend most of the day outside. We love discovering those incredible destinations that still offer solitude and wide open spaces for our kids to run wild (and sharing them with you, of course!). Today we are spotlighting Creative Team member Jen Barnes’ family vacation to Gulf County, Florida. The activities and the pace of life in Gulf County, Florida, are perfect for families who want a beautiful location, less crowds, wonderful weather, and plenty to keep busy or just relax. If you’re looking for a great off-season, hidden gem travel spot, take a family vacation to Gulf County, Florida! Let’s show you around! 

    *This post was sponsored by Visit Gulf County. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.

    kids on paddle boards with blue sky and whispy clouds text that reads "family vacation in gulf county florida"

    Where is Gulf County, Florida?

    Gulf County, Florida, is located in the panhandle of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico coastline. Situated just east of major tourist hotspots like Panama City Beach and Destin, Gulf County is a pristine slice of heaven. The nearest major airports to Gulf County are in Panama City Beach and Tallahassee. Both are about a two-hour drive from Gulf County. Destin is about 2.5 hours away by car.

    Yes, Gulf County is a bit remote. And that’s the point! This area is surrounded by natural lands that are not developed. You won’t find spring break crowds here! You also won’t find malls, amusement parks, putt putt courses, or high-rise hotels. This section of the Gulf Coast is not overdeveloped, leaving plenty of natural beauty and space to explore. There are just enough restaurants and shops to give you options, but still remains quiet.

    How’s the weather in Gulf County?

    Gulf County’s weather is another reason to visit. Temperatures remain mild throughout the year, although they do experience seasons. It’s hot in the summer (as expected), but there’s usually a nice breeze on the coast, and scattered rain tends to cool the area off. In November, you can expect temperatures in the 60-degree range. When we visited in April, we had daytime temps in the low 80 degrees with bright sunshine.

    Arched sign reading Port St. Joe over a street intersection in Gulf County Floridateens walking in Gulf County Florida

    Gulf County, Florida area and features

    Over 244 miles of shoreline wind through Gulf County, ranging from clear waters and white sand beaches to tranquil inland passages. The largest city (and county seat) is Port St. Joe. Other areas are Cape San Blas, St. Joe Beach, and Indian Pass. Cape San Blas is a narrow stretch of land that extends out from Port St. Joe and curves around St. Joseph Bay. One of the least populated and richest ecosystems along the Florida Coastline is T.H. Sone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, which offers 1,900 acres of tranquil beaches and hiking along two nature trails.

    Where to stay in Gulf County, Florida

    Your best options for accommodations in Gulf County are the many vacation home rentals you can find out on Cape San Blas. When traveling with kids (of any age), we love staying in a home equipped with a full kitchen, laundry, and space to spread out. 

    We had an incredible stay in a gated neighborhood through Natural Retreats. The house was well-equipped in a beachfront neighborhood within walking distance of a gorgeous white sand beach. We loved having our own space to spread out, play games at night as a family, and prepare snacks and meals to take along for our days of adventure.

    Natural Retreats also offers a rental delivery service for items such as beach chairs, umbrellas, wagons, skimboards, etc. What a joy to have these items available to rent, so you don’t have to lug them around and take up valuable packing space! Whether you are staying on the beach or near the beach, you will want some gear.

    There are also a few hotels in Gulf County, Florida, available in the town of Port St. Joe and are an affordable option. There are also a host of well-rated campgrounds throughout the county. Many of the campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs, as well. When you are visiting nature’s playground, why not stay in nature?!

    Home decor sign that reads Tides that Bind with two seashells in front of it

    Teal Blue colored beach houseup close of a teal colored beach umbrella that reads Natural Retreats Cape San Blas

    What to do on your family vacation in Gulf County, Florida

    Gulf County beaches

    The sugary white sand beaches of Gulf County are impeccable. You have quite a few spots to choose from along Cape San Blas to park your car or ride a bike from your rental home. We chose to drive so we could have all of our gear with us. We spent several hours at a time relaxing, playing beach games, and swimming in the ocean. Choose from dozens of beach access points. The 43 miles of shoreline really allows families to spread out.

    Do not miss T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park! With boat ramps, spots for snorkeling, bathroom facilities, and picnic areas, you can spend an entire day enjoying the beach! These are truly the best family beaches on the Gulf coast if you want to have quiet family days together. We had the best afternoon playing games as a family.

    White sand beach on the shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida's Gulf Countywhite sand beach with a teen girl with feet in the water of the gulf of mexicofamily playing spikeball on a whilte sand beach on Cape San BlasFamily playing spikeball on a white sand beach while on vacation in Gulf County Floridaboardwalk leading to a beach on cape san blas

    Gulf Coast fishing

    Gulf County, Florida is an angler’s paradise. Not only can you indulge in gulf coast deep sea fishing, but you can also find incredible in-shore fishing areas in St. Joseph Bay. Florida saltwater fishing is everywhere in this area, and if you just want to try beach fishing from your family spot, that’s great too. We noticed lots of solo fly fishing when the tides were low at sunset. It was a beautiful sight. 

    Our family enjoyed a full morning out in St. Joseph Bay doing some in-shore fishing with Captain Pete of Bounty Bay PSJ Charters. Pete provided everything we needed, including fishing rods, reels, and bait. He asked us what kind of experience we wanted and took such great care of us. Because we were only in town for part of a week, we decided we just wanted to have fun and do catch and release. However, if you want to catch to eat, he will make sure he gets you to those spots where you can catch enough for dinner! My daughter had never fished before, so Pete took his time showing her the ropes, and soon enough, she was catching fish like crazy. It was a perfect family morning.

    teens fishing off the side of a fishing charter boat in gulf county floridateen boy fishing off of a fishing charter boat in St. Joe's Baytwo teen boys fishing off of a fishing charter boatTeen girl with two fish hooked on a rod off the side of a fishing boat charterTeen boy with a small fish on a hook in the Florida Gulf

    Paddling in Gulf County

    If you see a theme here, you’re not wrong. Everything about Gulf County is about getting out on the water. And how could you not? All of the magical moments happen on the water. The colors, salt, and sun just draw you out. We had the most fun with Happy Ours Kayak and Bike Outpost. We spent several hours out on the water with kayaks and SUPs, paddling around St. Joseph Bay, marveling at the manta rays and turtles, and just enjoying each other. The shallow see-through water was bliss, perfect for kids so they can splash around safely while paddling. 

    You can also rent bikes to ride along the Loggerhead Trail all the way up and down Cape San Blas. My kids were getting a bit angry, so we skipped the bikes, but wished we had gotten up earlier to enjoy them. Such is life with teenagers! Happy Ours will provide all the gear you need, and you can even have bikes delivered to where you are staying!

    kayaks and SUP's on the edge of St. Joseph's BayTeens boys on an SUP and a teen girl sitting on an SUP in Gulf County FloridaTeen girl on an SUP in Gulf County Floridateen boy on an SUP in St. Joseph's Baylandscape of St. Joseph's Bay you can see through the water

    Where to eat in Gulf County, Florida

    Gulf County has a little bit of everything in terms of restaurants, so we tried it all! Favorite dinner spots included Indian Pass Raw Bar for a fun and fabulous raw bar experience. The food was outstanding, but don’t miss out on the outdoor lawn games and live music scene. We also loved Longbill’s after a full day at the state park. They offer delicious fried pickles and a good mix of seafood and American dishes. For an evening in the town of Port St. Joe, make your way to Quatro Locos Mexican restaurant for outdoor dining. Afterward enjoy a walk to the Port St. Joe lighthouse and an unforgettable sunset.

    We did lunch on the fly because we were so busy enjoying our time outdoors. In Port St. Joe, check out Joe Mama’s Wood Fire Pizza for a hearty salad or pizza. Out on Cape San Blas make a quick stop in Scallop Cove Store for a bite from the grill and stock up on other snacks and souvenirs. We enjoyed our burgers and hot dogs at a picnic area at Cape Palms Park, right near the beach access. 

    For a big breakfast before setting off for a morning of fishing, we filled up at the Sand Dollar Cafe for a traditional breakfast served in a cafeteria-style buffet. We enjoyed our breakfast outside while we planned our day. Another fun option that is CASH ONLY is Weber’s Donuts on Cape San Blas. Be warned — they will run out of donuts, so plan to arrive early.

    Snacks and treats are always a must while on vacation. If you are in town, keep your eyes peeled for Shoobie’s Ice Cream Truck or Sugar Shack. If you are out on Cape San Blas, you can always stop into The Cape Trading Post.

    Teens sitting in large wooden chairs with sodas waitingdad and teen son playing lawn games while on vacation at a restaurantteens snacking on ice cream and playing a board gameordering menu for Indian Pass Raw Barteen boy with a table full of seafood inside Indian Pass Raw Bar restaurantfamily eating outdoors with food and menus on the table, a sunset in the background

    Why a family vacation in Gulf County, Florida is awesome

    Ordinary magic happens in places like Gulf County. Your family will enjoy outdoor time together disconnecting and reconnecting in one of the U.S.A.’s most scenic coastal areas. Spend time together away from the grind of home life (and away from the hustle and bustle of touristy areas), while you feel right at home on vacation. Everything is so relaxed while on a family vacation in Gulf County, Florida. At the same time, you will be able to try new things together and get out on the water for some fun.

    For us, this was such a vital time away to be together and recharge amidst a very busy season of regular life. Our trip to Gulf County was amazing and we highly recommend this area to any family looking for natural beauty and lots of space to let their child run wild. 

    For more info on all the amazing activities and accommodations in Gulf County, check out their website: http://www.visitgulf.com

    Additional travel resources

    For more inspiration on family travel, check out these posts and start planning your next getaway:

    Would you take a family vacation to Gulf County, Florida?

    About the author

    Jen has been married to her original adventure partner, John, for 20 years. She is a mama to 3 teenagers who, although they have busy and independent lives, love to adventure in the outdoors when they can. Jen is a native of Chicago, but has lived in South Carolina for two decades and calls it home. She’s always planning the next adventure for herself or her friends, whether near or far. Hiking, kayaking, sailing with her family, or traveling the world is all about the experience and the journey. Her extroverted nature keeps her talking and smiling with anyone she meets along the way. She’s on a mission to show other busy families that traveling with teenagers is possible and fun!

    You can find Jen online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @gofamilyadventure
    Website: Go Family Adventure
    RWMC Posts: Jen Barnes