Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

Protecting over 73,000-acres, the reserve is home to vast and impressive array of plants and wildlife including armadillos, tortoises, deer and alligators. Located along the Atlantic Flyway, a migratory path for land and water fowl, spot bald eagles and the rare roseate spoonbill. Pack an ample supply of water, insect repellant, sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses and snacks to enjoy ten miles of nature trails for hiking, biking and on weekdays (except holidays), horseback riding. Or, get in a kayak or canoe to explore salt marsh, mangrove tidal wetlands, oyster bars, and estuarine lagoons. There are three parking lots off A1A with access points. The South Ponte Vedra Beach parking lot offers accessible walkways over the dunes leading to coquina sand beaches.