Welcome to Biscayne Bay-Cape Florida to Monroe County Line Aquatic Preserve – Miami’s blue heart. Step away from the busy city and immerse yourself in all that nature has to offer. Dive in and meet some of Miami’s favorite locals: manatees, bottlenose dolphins, turtles and the lovely spiny lobster. Explore seagrass flats with Bahamian sea stars or dive on some of the preserve’s patch reefs.
As the largest aquatic preserve in Florida, spanning nearly 1 million acres along our stunning Gulf Coast, this area is one of the most pristine and ecologically diverse marine habitats in the state. Here, our vast seagrass meadows play a critical role in supporting fish, sea turtles and other marine life while also helping to protect our coastline.
Each of the aquatic preserves within the Indian River Lagoon Aquatic Preserves offers a unique visit of protected submerged state lands.
The ecological and cultural significance of Apalachicola Bay underscores the importance of maintaining the health and functionality of our natural resources. The Apalachicola Bay Watershed is an environmental treasure that supports one of the most unique ecological systems in the world.
The ecological and cultural significance of Apalachicola Bay underscores the importance of maintaining the health and functionality of our natural resources. The Apalachicola Bay Watershed is an environmental treasure that supports one of the most unique ecological systems in the world.
There are some natural places on this planet that automatically calm you. When you visit these places, you catch yourself breathing deeper, listening more and smiling deeply. The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (RBNERR) is just such a place. Our staff at RBNERR pride ourselves in doing good rigorous science to management of all the natural resources found within our 110,000 acres.
In a heavily urbanized area like Tampa Bay, there is a unique advantage to easily experience local habitats at their finest by taking a drive across the Skyway Bridge or traveling a short distance south from Tampa. Visitors who kayak through the extensive mangrove forests and tidal creeks are often mesmerized by the natural beauty and feel they have been transported from Tampa Bay.
As the manager of Tomoka Aquatic Preserve, I am proud to oversee this incredible natural resource that is integral to Florida’s ecological health and beauty. Our preserve is a vibrant and diverse ecosystem, offering a sanctuary for a wide variety of plant and animal species, while providing valuable recreational opportunities for our community and visitors.
Dear Visitors and Partners,
Welcome to the Wekiva River Aquatic Preserve, one of Florida's most cherished and ecologically significant natural resources. As the manager of this exceptional preserve, I am pleased to extend my gratitude for your continued support in protecting and preserving this unique environment for generations to come.
"A trip on the Yellow River is like going back in time. Its tall-forested banks, pristine water quality and productive fishing create a place one can go to be completely surrounded by nature. The Yellow River Preserve is one of Florida's most precious contributions it has for its future generations."
- Ernie Rivers, River Keeper and Bream Fisherman Associate of Northwest Florida