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Daytona is a great destination for eco-tourists
17 May 2009
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Before there were theme parks packed with heart-stopping rides and high-tech light shows that dazzle the eye, vacationers flocked to Florida to enjoy the beautiful weather and natural beauty of the peninsula. Tourists came to see the exotic plants and animals. Families came to swim in the invigorating Atlantic and build castles with their kids in the sand. Exercise enthusiasts were drawn here by the miles and miles of serene waterways and trails, where hikers, bikers and kayakers could spend their vacation days.
With the construction of Walt Disney World and the other mammoth attractions in central Florida, the emphasis on what people wanted in a vacation destination shifted from basic beach to the latest thrill rides. While Orlando’s resorts still draw sizeable crowds, the weakened economy, increasing concern for the Earth and renewed popularity of having family fun in an eco-friendly way are bringing more people back to nature. And there is no better place in Florida to explore natural wonders than the Daytona area.
A short drive down A1A to Ponce Inlet is all it takes to get to a prime spot for ecological observation and education. The Marine Science Center is a great place for kids and adults to get an up-close look at the fascinating cycle of sea and coastal life. The ICU at the center’s hospital has tanks full of rescued sea turtles that are receiving excellent care. When they recover from their injuries and /or illnesses, the turtles are rehabilitated and released back into the ocean. Seeing how we can help our finned, feathered and flippered friends is a life lesson that makes everyone feel good.
The center also has a bird sanctuary, a nature trail and an observation deck with a fantastic view of the plants and wildlife that are native to this coastal environment.
There are many parks and recreational areas throughout Volusia County. Some are perfect for bird watching, like Ormond Beach‘s Tomoka State Park. Some, like Blue Spring State Park, are the winter home of special residents, the gentle manatees. During the summer, the cool and clear spring water provides a wonderfully refreshing retreat for swimmers. And there are so many stretches of beach where you won’t get any complaints about leaving a heavy carbon footprint as you walk barefoot along the shore.
If you’re planning a visit
Rescued sea turtles get excellent care at the Marine Science Center
for more than just a few days, consider vacation rentals for your green getaway. Contacting a vacation rentals expert like Ramara Garrett at Waverly Property Group will give you access to the variety of properties that are eco-friendly and close to the beaches, parks and natural habitats. The monetary cost for your eco adventure will be surprisingly affordable. The chance to experience all that nature and this beautiful part of Florida have to offer is priceless.
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- Daytona Beach Vacation - Enjoy Nature and the Outdoors
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