10 Best Things To Do In The Everglades, Florida – Hand Luggage Only

Just shy of the bright lights of Miami, the beaches of Fort Lauderdale and the iconic murals in Hollywood, the Everglades is a stunner of a place to visit in South Florida. That being said, it can be hard to pinpoint just a few of the best things to do in Everglades National Park if you’re heading across for a short trip. 

It’s funny, every time we’ve visited Southern Florida, we’ve always made the effort to visit the Everglades. It’s one of those places that’s so unique and without sounding like an ecology-buff, it’s landscape and ecosystem is so unique to visit. 

From alligators, incredible birdlife and vast swaths of unspoilt creeks to explore; you can spend weeks in Everglades National Park and still not see it all.

This is why I wanted to share some of our top spots we’ve loved visiting whilst in Florida. 

Take a look, below, at the best things to do in the Everglades. Have a totally fun trip! 

1.) Sawgrass Recreation Park

At the very northerly points of The Everglades, Sawgrass Recreation Park is perched right within the Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Area.

Not only that, it’s one of the easiest places to visit if you’re based in Fort Lauderdale (around 25-minutes from the city centre). Yeah, it might be close to the city but it actually feels like a million miles away – you’re in total wilderness when you’re here. 

Once you arrive, head out on the Sawgrass Airboat Tour that’s so much fun! We loved it, especially as we got to see a heap of alligators! Not only that, the team is so knowledgeable and passionate about The Everglades – they really made our experience! 

Getting peckish? Try some of the freshly-fried gator tail bites, too! They were delicious.

Read more: How to explore Sawgrass Recreation Park

2.) Shark Valley

Around 50-minutes from Miami, Shark Valley is one of the best places in the Everglades that’s within easy reach of Miami. 

Once here, you can explore the trails and the iconic Bobcat Boardwalk that’s totally stunning on a gorgeous sunny day. Though, take lots of water and sunblock with you – that humidity and mosquitos can be tough. 

If you fancy chilling, take the tram tour where you’ll spot a heap of the locals, like; the turtles, regional birds which is great to explore. Of course, there’s a shed load of alligators, too! 

Finally, take the in the views from the Shark Valley Visitor Center that overlooks the whole region and really lets you see how much area the Everglades covers. Just stunning. 

Read more: Best things to do in Florida

3.) Chokoloskee Bay

Chokoloskee Bay is about ten miles (16 km) long and is a favourite spot for anglers and water sporters! 

This place is full of wildlife, natural beauty, and beautiful waters that are too good to miss. Of course, once you’re here, make sure to try your hand at kayaking or canoeing, too.

If you fancy less of an upper-body workout, hop on one of the boat tours that depart from Chokoloskee most days. Oh, and if its views you’re after, head to the Ernest Hamilton Observation Tower that’s right on the bay within Everglades City. 

On the topic of Everglades City, if you do plan a little jaunt around the streets itself, be sure to take in some of the gorgeous spots along the way. We loved seeing the City Hall and popping into the Museum of the Everglades.

Afterwards, stop by the cute Havana Café of the Everglades that’s right on Chokoloskee Island. Their shrimp is so good and the Cuban treats are just too good to miss. 

Read more: Best things to do in Fort Lauderdale

4.) Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center

Just off Ingraham Highway, heading to the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is one of the best things to do in the Everglades for the nearby trails. 

Located at the Homestead entrance of Everglades National Park, the visitor centre has a heap of exhibitions, expert guides and rangers that’ll point you in the right direction for trails in the area.

Not only that, but they can also point you in the right direction for houseboat rentals whilst in the Everglades. This is perfect if you want to extend your stay in this stunning part of Florida. 

Read more: Best things to do in Hollywood, Florida

5.) Long Pine Key

If camping is your thing, then you’ll easily find Long Pine Key the place for you. It’s one of the best things to do in the Everglades if you’re a camper but want quieter spots to set up your tent. You see, it’s a little less-known than some of the bigger camping spots (making it a great place to relax and see beautiful views in the area).