United States — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Blowing Rocks Preserve, Florida

Blowing Rocks Preserve, Florida is a unique habitat preserve that is owned by the Nature Conservancy. It is located along Hobe Sound on Jupiter Island in Martin County, Florida. Visitors can see what natural Florida looks like. The combination of ocean waves and natural limestone outcroppings results in magnificent sea spray that shoots up into the air at regular intervals. The preserve is easily reached via the I-95 Florida corridor or A1A/US 1. The Preserve is located about 100 miles from Miami and about 235 from Jacksonville. Hobe Sound is one of a long chain of barrier islands along the so-called Treasure Coast of Florida. There are state parks with beaches on some of these islands as well as resorts and individual hotels.

To the north, the closest beach is Vero Beach. Its public beaches include South Beach and Humiston Park. Between Jupiter Island and Vero Beach, there are beach communities including Hutchinson Island South, Ocean Beach, North Beach, Pepper Park and Queens Cove. Treasure Coast beaches are warm and sunny most of the year, making them perfect for visitors who want to escape a cold winter. These Atlantic beaches are more isolated from big crowds and commercialism, even if they are part of a resort area. There are many natural beaches and nature parks to attract those who enjoy bird-watching or hiking. Sea-shell hunting is also more rewarding. The inland waterway offers more opportunities for water sports, skiing, boating, and fishing. From Vero Beach, visitors are within an hour of the Cape Canaveral Space Center.

To the south, the best known beaches are within the boundaries of the West Palm Beach area. Before reaching West Palm Beach, there are beaches near Tequestra and Jupiter, Florida. There is also the Sea Colony community with its resorts. Further south, Juno Beach offers its own beach accommodations and beach access. West Palm Beach includes the beach towns of Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Riviera Beach, Royal Palm Beach, North Palm Beach and Palm Beach. These beaches offers many hotels and resorts that are part of a bustling metropolitan area with attractions, shopping and dining. There are many upscale boutiques, trendy clubs and a more exclusive atmosphere. Spas and salons are plentiful. Palm Beach International Airport brings in about 5.5 million passengers to the area yearly.

Filed Under: Blowing Rocks Preserve, featured, Florida, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie

Hobe Sound, Florida

Hobe Sound, Florida, has a most unusual beach named Blowing Rocks Preserve, which is a small 73 acre area with rocks instead of the usual Florida sand. When the Atlantic Ocean wind drives the water through the holes in the limestone, the spray sometimes flies as high as 50 feet. This is a beachcombers dream because there are thousands of gorgeous seashells that can be gathered to take home and treasure. There is a quarter mile that is not rocky, and here approximately 500 turtle nests are dug every year by leatherback, green and loggerhead turtles.

Residents from nearby Jupiter Island gave this parcel to the Nature Conservancy back in 1969, and since then volunteers have restored 42 acres by weeding out invasive trees and planting sabal palms, palmettos, mangroves and other native ones instead. The preserve’s nursery’s seeds were responsible for many of these trees.

The Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge is halfway between Port St. Lucie and West Palm Beach on Florida’s Treasure Coast . It is situated on a barrier island down the dead-end North Beach Road, so it is a surprise when you find over five miles of unspoiled shore lined with seashells and vegetation, a wooden observation platform on top of a dune, and a beach filled with turtle nests. If you go by bicycle, entrance is free; there is a charge of $5.00 per person if you are in a vehicle. You can walk to St. Lucie River Inlet.

The Hobe Sound Nature Center is located at the National Wildlife Refuge right on the Intercoastal. It is a non-profit private organization that cooperates with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is dedicated to the education and awareness of the environment. There are 43 steps down to its lovely beach. There are trails to walk on and warm waters for the kids to play in while the parents can sit on the beach, enjoy the sun and watch the boats go by. A popular annual event is the “sea turtle walk” from the end of May to mid-July.

The Coral Cove Park is a must for surfers and for those who like to view spectacular rock formations. You must watch out for sharks, however, because there are many in the nearby Jupiter Inlet.

Filed Under: featured, Florida, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Treasure Coast, United States

Avalon State Park, Florida

Avalon State Park in Florida is a wonderful destination for those wanting to enjoy an undeveloped beach, an increasingly rare find in Florida. Avalon State Park is located on Florida’s Treasure Coast on North Hutchinson Island, just 4 miles north of Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and the Fort Pierce downtown area. Visitors will discover over a mile of sandy beach along crystal clear water offering great activities, relaxation, and a glimpse of native wildlife.

There are several ways to enjoy this area. Avalon State Park’s beach is ideal for sunbathing under the Florida sun. Swimmers will love the firm sandy floor and beautiful surroundings, while snorkeling is an extra special treat. The water is as clear as in the Bahamas, and it is home to a wonderful tropical world of sea life. Kayaking and canoeing is a very popular activity, as one can start off from the beach. Simply carry your craft out 30 to 40 feet, and enjoy a relaxing cruise atop the water.

All visitors enjoying water activities are asked to be careful around steel and concrete obstacles found under water. Left by the United States Navy’s training during World War II; it is an example of the beaches rich history.

Avalon State Park is one of Florida’s best places for fishing from the shore. Fish can actually be seen migrating past during certain seasons of the year. Catch one of the several native species such as Snook, Bluefish, Red or Black Drums, Permit, Pompano, or Whiting.

Many people come to experience the native Florida wildlife found in Avalon State Park. This area is the ideal habitat for several species. Sea turtles are the most popular animal found along the water’s edge. They can be found nesting along the beaches during the spring, including the endangered loggerhead, leatherback, and Atlantic Green. Although they are interesting and fun to see, do not disturb them. That way they will survive for future generations to observe.

One of the best things about this beach is all the features to make your visit convenient from start to finish. Located near the parking lot are four pavilions for picnicking. Along with the sheltered tables, grills are also provided. After a day of exploring the entire beach, there are two showers found near the restrooms where one can clean up before heading home. Facilities are all ADA accessible. A beach wheelchair is available for use at no charge.

Filed Under: Avalon State Park, featured, Florida, Fort Pierce, Treasure Coast, United States

Fort Pierce, Florida

Fort Pierce, Florida is a dreamy expanse of waterfront communities hugging the Atlantic Coast. Founded in 1901, it is one of the oldest cities in the Sunshine State. Fittingly referred to as Sunrise City for the dramatic daybreak views along its shores, Fort Pierce is the seat of the St. Lucie County government.

Along with the counties of Okeechobee, Martin and Indian River, St. Lucie forms part of the Treasure Coast, a reference to the treasure-laden Spanish fleet sunk by a hurricane in 1715. The treasure remains unrecovered, but artifacts believed to be part of the bounty are occasionally found in and around Fort Pierce, adding to the city’s allure for boaters, divers and beachcombers.

Sunken treasures aside, Fort Pierce’s waters are endowed with natural riches including snook, flounder and Spanish mackerel. Natural and artificial reefs offer good spots for sports fishing and diving. As such, boating is a way of life and a delightful reason to sneak a peek at the waterfront mansions and some modest old-timer estates.

Its geographic advantages have not been lost on marine research institutions. Facilities represented in Fort Pierce include the Smithsonian Marine Station, the Oceanographic Institute spearheaded by Florida Atlantic University and the Manatee Observation and Education Center advocating for endangered sea cows. In addition, the National Navy-SEALs Museum located in Hutchinson Island pays tribute to the rich history of this elite group of soldiers going back to the days when Fort Pierce was the SEALs’ home base.

Jetty Park is a popular hangout for both locals and visitors. It is over two miles of unobstructed ocean views where one can people-watch amidst the constant crashing of waves on the breakers. This is also a good place to watch pelicans, seagulls and the occasional dolphin. South Jetty Park Beach is ideal for picnics, shell hunting and kite boarding.

Experience the beach on horseback at Frederick Douglass Memorial Park. This family oriented adventure takes riders through the beach and guided trails of Old Florida wetlands and hammocks.

For golf enthusiasts, Fort Pierce is a year-round golf haven with numerous public and private golf courses. The subtropical climate is conducive for golf, fishing, boating and all kinds of outdoor recreation.

Fort Pierce is an interesting fusion of the laid back charms of Old Florida and the vibrancy of a favored vacation spot. It shies away from cosmopolitan airs but manages to enthrall both cautious and adventurous vacationers.

Filed Under: Fort Pierce

Amelia Island, Florida

When most people think of a Florida vacation, theme parks immediately spring to mind. However, visitors seeking a more relaxing getaway in the Sunshine State should turn their minds to Amelia Island, Florida. This Florida’s First Coast barrier island, Florida’s northernmost, is just 18 miles long and three miles wide, yet it provides visitors with countless ways to relax and enjoy themselves far away from any big city bustle.

At the island’s southern end lies an upscale residential area and two exclusive golf resorts. Moving north, visitors discover a quietly touristy beach community with plenty of affordable lodging. The charming, historic community of Fernandina Beach lies immediately to the north. It was first settled in the days after the Civil War, and was the home of several successful industries like timber and phosphate. Fernandina Beach was also a bustling seaport, and 50 square blocks of the city have been designated on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the district is a lovely place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoying some fine examples of Italianate, Victorian and Queen Anne architecture.

A bit further north is Fort Clinch State Park. The centerpiece attraction here is the remarkably well preserved 19th century fort that once guarded the island. Daily tours and a number of dedicated re-enactors keep history alive at this fascinating facility. An expansive beach area is also part of the park, and popular activities include swimming, sunbathing and fishing. Hikers love to explore the many trails while a well developed campground makes it easy to get back to nature.

At the Amelia Island Museum of History, visitors get a broader perspective of the island’s history and its importance to the shaping of the state. A collection of community theater groups bring a welcome cultural overtone to the island and various walking tours highlight many interesting aspects of Fernandina Beach. Many visitors enjoy guided fishing or kayaking excursions. Of course, lots of people come to Amelia Island just to laze on its 13 miles of gorgeous beach.

The island’s weather is famously mild and sunny, making it an ideal destination at any time of year. That’s good news because there are so many wonderful lodging options on the island that most visitors want to come back again and again. Whether guests are looking for an upscale resort or an intimate bed and breakfast, Amelia Island has precisely what they seek.

Filed Under: Amelia Island, featured, Florida, United States

Future World, Epcot Center

One of the two sections of Epcot Center, Future World is a place where imagination becomes reality and tomorrow is as close as a breath away. Visitors explore how advancements in technology shape the world and allow humans reach out to the stars.

Future World is divided into eight attractions. The first stop for many visitors is Spaceship Earth, which is inside the park’s spherical icon near the Epcot entrance. The slow-paced ride lasts 16 minutes and takes patrons on a trip through space and time that is suitable for all ages. It even features interactive touch screens that let guests get a glimpse of what their future selves may look like.

One of the hottest attractions at Epcot is the fast-paced Test Track Presented by Chevrolet. Get in the driver’s seat by creating a virtual car, and then test-drive it through a wild track. Guest can gun their vehicles up to 65 mph and produce original TV commercials for their designs.

Take a simulated hang-gliding flight over California at the Soarin’ attraction. Guests who want to fly even farther can blast off to the Mission: SPACE Pavilion. There, they board a motion simulation ride where they will train before embarking on a mission to Mars.

For a change of pace, the Land Pavilion keeps everyone’s feet on the ground with 6 acres to explore. Families can try a boat ride at Living with the Land, and then catch a fun film starring animated friends from The Lion King.

Head over to the Imagination Pavilion and take a tour through the sensory labs of the Imagination Institute with Figment, a purple dragon. Visitors of all ages can conduct music, play with lights and video, and watch a live digital imaging show.

Equipped with a gigantic aquarium, The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion is home to one of the world’s largest man-made oceanariums. The attractions star the characters from Finding Nemo. Guests can take a spin on The Seas with Nemo & Friends ride, chill out at the Turtle Talk with Crush show, and marvel at the Sea Base and Caribbean Coral Reef Aquarium.

Find out how the future will be powered at the Universe of Energy. Alternative energy is the star at this pavilion. Solar panels cover the roof and power the vehicles for the multimedia Ellen’s Energy Adventure ride.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, featured, Florida, Future World, Kissimmee, Orlando, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

France Pavilion, Epcot Center

Epcot Center’s World Showcase provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the unique cultures and traditions of regions from across the globe. The France Pavilion at Epcot Center is easily one of the park’s most popular destinations, as the area catapults visitors to the quaint streets of Paris. Complete with shops selling authentic French wares, architectural details reminiscent of the City of Light, and a view of the Eiffel Tower in the distance, the French Pavilion is enough to convince even the most discerning traveler that they have crossed the ocean and are visiting the streets of Paris.

Culinary Exploration: Foods in the Pavilion
The foods and culinary traditions of France are perhaps one of the country’s greatest sources of price. Epcot’s France Pavilion does not neglect this phenomenon, but instead presents visitors with multiple opportunities to savor the delicacies of the “cuisine française.” Epcot guests can sample the scrumptious baked goods found throughout France in the Boulangerie Patisserie, while the Bistro de France gives visitors the opportunity to experience the hustle and bustle of a modern cafe. Les Chefs de France is another option in the France Pavilion, serving a wide selection of entrees that are typical of dishes served in the various regions of France.

Enjoying the Parisian Atmosphere

Perhaps one of the most incredible aspects of a visit to the French Pavilion is how successfully Epcot has managed to replicate the ambiance of a Parisian neighborhood. Street performers dot the landscape, just as the artists do on the streets of the French capital. Of course, Disney fans will not be disappointed to discover that the area serves as a second home to popular characters such as Belle and the Beast. Other French characters also make appearances in the France Pavilion, adding to the overall draw of this dynamic destination.

For those who feel passionate about all that France has to offer, the France Pavilion as Epcot is perhaps one of the most authentic French experiences on this side of the Atlantic. From the delicious foods to the charm of the performers and characters, there is truly something for everyone in this area of Epcot. In addition to the authentic shops, restaurants, and decor, the French Pavilion also offers visitors the chance to watch “Impressions de France,” a film giving a visual tour of the many attractions of the nation.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, featured, Florida, France, Kissimmee, Orlando, Paris, United States, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

World Showcase, Epcot Center

The World Showcase at Epcot Center is always one of the most enjoyable areas of the park to visit. The idea behind World Showcase is for visitors to get a general impression of all the countries that represented by pavilions at the attraction. The idea is not to give a literal, exact representation of the particular country. It is more an attempt to convey an impression or general idea of the spirit and culture of the country represented. There are 11 country pavilions for visitors to explore at World Showcase.

World Showcase Plaza

This grand plaza welcomes visitors as they enter World Showcase. The highlight of the area is a giant lagoon that has water taxis that slowly ferry people across the lagoon. In the center of the plaza is a very fun attraction, a series of fountains that visitor will especially appreciate on hot days. Visitors frolic and splash around the fountains all day, allowing themselves to enjoy a real spirit of fun.

The best parts of the World Showcase are the individual pavilions that make up the park. Here are some of the pavilions that visitors often remark as particular highlights during their tours.

Mexico

The highlight of this pavilion is a giant pyramid that is modeled after an Aztec temple where hundreds of human sacrifices occurred.

Norway

The focus here is on the Viking heritage with the pavilion being built to look like a medieval Viking town complete with a fortress.

China

Visitors will enjoy lots of impressive architecture that is modeled after the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City in Beijing.

France

The French pavilion is a recreation of a Paris street view. It features a sidewalk café, fountains and beautiful French architecture. There is also a park where visitors will enjoy taking a moment to rest their tired legs.

Germany

This is one of the most diverse pavilions as there are parts celebrating all 16 of the states in the German Federation. There is lots of great food and shopping here.

Italy

This pavilion is a recreation of the famous St. Marks’s Square in the heart of Venice. The gondola rides are one of the highlights.

United States of America

Visitors will find the highlight of the home country pavilion to be the show called “Adventures in America.” It has a cast of hundreds and features many of the most famous figures in American History. It is educational and very entertaining.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, Florida, Future World, Kissimmee, Orlando, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

Epcot Center, Walt Disney World Resort

Epcot Center is an amazing part of the overall Disney World Resort experience. There are two distinct areas at Epcot that have many fascinating exhibits, rides, and attractions. Future World focuses on technology, while World Showcase features the cuisine and culture of eleven different countries.

Future World
In Future World a guest will experience technology from the past, the present, and into the possibilities of the future. One of the highlights of Epcot is Spaceship Earth, the huge silver ball that is the signature of Epcot. Inside is a ride that takes visitors on a journey of man’s history and all the technological advances along the way. Children and adults will love Captain EO, which features Michael Jackson as the commander of a spaceship in a 4D movie experience. Mission Space is a thrill ride that offers two different levels, one with G force, the other without. This ride takes place in a mock-space capsule. In Test Track, a visitor can design his or her own car and then experience how the design stands up on the track. Soarin’ is a simulated ride in which guests sit in a hang glider that “flies” over California. These are but a few of the attractions to experience in Future World.

World Showcase
Themed pavilions offer guests the opportunity to explore the unique culture of several countries. The countries showcased are France, Germany, China, Italy, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Morocco, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Within each country is a variety of restaurants, attractions, and stunning architecture. The following is a more detailed description of a few of these countries.

Finally, Illuminations, a massive nighttime event that includes lasers, fireworks, videos, fire, and phenomenal music, should be on any visitors list of must-see attractions.

Filed Under: Epcot Center, Florida, Future World, Kissimmee, Orlando, Walt Disney World, World Showcase

New York City, The Statue of Liberty

The most popular and famous tourist attraction in New York City, the Statue of Liberty is a sprawling monument to American principles of freedom and justice. The Statue of Liberty, an icon of freedom and a symbol of American virtues, remains as the not to be missed site in New York to this day.

The statue was first created by French law professor and politician Edouard Rene de Labiulaye to commemorate and honor American independence. The statue began construction in France in the early 1870s, and was shipped to America for assembly before its public unveiling in 1886.

The statue has become one of the world’s most visited and beloved tourist attraction. The statue receives over 3 million visitors annually is a free attraction.

There are several reasons a trip to the Statue of Liberty will be absolutely unforgettable. The statue itself is a paradigm of 19th century architectural feats, and is widely celebrated as a beautiful artistic attraction. The statue has also become a symbol of democracy, liberty, and freedom and is widely associated with America’s independence. The fascinating historical significance of the statue is proudly on display within Ellis Island, the location of the Statue of Liberty. The stunning view from the top of the statue is a much-coveted sight, and travelers from across the globe come to New York to experience the breathtaking sights from the top of the Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty is a ferry ride away from New York City. One must expect to pay a fee for the ferry, as no private boats are allowed to dock on Ellis Island. While the statue and base are currently closed for renovation, the tickets for entering the actual statue must be purchased in harmony with the ferry tickets. Special tickets for entering the crown, the highest point with the most sought after views on the statue, must be secured up to a year in advance. The large demand for trips to the crown derives from its stunning view and its illustrious reputation.

For those going up to the crown, reservations should be made many months in advance. If you plan to rent an apartment for days in New York, make your reservation for visiting the crown at the same time. The climbers are allowed medication, cameras, and water for their trip up to the top of the Statue of Liberty. The stunning view makes the slightly strenuous ascent all the more memorable.

The Statue of Liberty offers a wealth of knowledge pertaining to American liberty and freedom, along with a massive artistic work well renown within the artistic community. The statue offers top-notch views if the surround water, and is a celebrated landmark that all should attempt to visit within their lifetime.

Filed Under: featured, New York, New York City, The Statue of Liberty, Times Square