When you think of Clearwater and St. Petersburg, the beach comes to mind first. But there is also a whole world of interesting wildlife to appreciate on your next visit to Bamboo Beach Club Resort.
From dolphins and manatees to birds and alligators, there are endless opportunities to observe the area’s natural beauty.
The Beach is for the Birds
Beach-nesting birds such as terns, plovers, skimmers, sandpipers and others lay their eggs around St. Pete/Clearwater area because it’s one of the few spots in southwestern Florida where they can nest. If you do spot their camouflaged eggs or nests, be sure to look from a distance. Don’t get too close and definitely don’t touch.
If you’re bird watching in the area, some of the other varieties you may spot include the Great Blue Heron, Snowy Egret, Brown Pelican and Pileated Woodpecker.
There are more than a dozen parks and preserves nearby where you can do some serious bird watching.
Go Down Under (the Water)
The beautiful world of reefs lies just below the ocean surface, so if you’re up for a dive, explore the region’s majestic artificial reef system. Reefs at varying depths and distances from shore offer divers unparalleled views of marine life, shipwrecks and more.
Dolphins Everywhere
Our bottlenose friends are probably one of the greatest attractions in the Clearwater/St. Pete area. There are dozens of dolphin-viewing cruises available so you can watch them frolic up close. From small afternoon excursions to full sunset/dinner cruises, you’ll have your choice of dolphin viewing options. Try the StarLite Dining Yacht for a more upscale experience, or the Dolphin Racer for something more informal.
The Marvelous Manatee
There is no better place than Florida to see nature’s mermaids. Throughout the state are designated places to observe the slow-moving, peaceful manatee. They like the climate in Florida because they are prone to symptoms similar to frostbite and hypothermia and must be in water that is 68 degrees or higher in temperature.
Crystal River, less than two hours from Bamboo Beach Club, is the only place in the world where it’s legal to actually swim with manatees. You can sign up for a full meet-a-manatee tour, wet suit and equipment included.
There are other places throughout the area to visit manatees as well.
Gators and Golf
Florida is also a great place to see the infamous alligator if you dare. The Alligator Attraction goes so far as to let guests “kiss a gator”. Or, if keeping a bit of a distance is more your style, Congo River Golf (mini golf) has an area where you can grab a pole and feed the gators kept in the park.
There’s a lot of nature waiting to be discovered in Clearwater, Florida. Visit one of the many nature parks, trails or tours to see some of our favorite wildlife closer than you ever imagined.
Are you a fan of Florida fauna? Where are your favorite spots to observe or interact with wildlife?
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