What if we said you could visit the Caribbean without a passport?
Before it was a state park, Caladesi was the childhood home of author Myrtle Scharrer Betz.
(There are also privately-owned homes to rent.)
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Don’t miss the Manatee Hole, a lagoon where adorable sea cows swim.
NearbyLori Wilson Parkincludes an oceanfront forest that’s a haven for migrating and maritime birds.
Only accessible by boat or seaplane, the park is roughly 99 percent open water (really!
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), vibrantly blue, and filled with stunning coral reefs.
Though it was never fully armed, it remains an architectural marvel with decorative brickwork and 2,000 arches.
Petersburgon Florida’s west coast.
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Consider a paddle on Western Lake after you’ve sunned yourself for the day.
(you’ve got the option to rent kayaks at the ranger station.)
It’s completely pristine with Caribbean-esque white sand and jade water.
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You’ll love this island as much as the birds do!
Check out kid-friendly Anne’s Beach for a shallow swimming area with calm water.
For a quieter spot, try Library Beach Park, which faces a channel of mangroves.
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Don’t forget to stop in the sun-drenched town, located halfway between the mainland and Key West.
For that, try the services ofHemingway Water Shuttle.
Hang a hammock between two breezy beauties and you’ll instantly lock in that laid-back Caribbean vibe.
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Or if you’re feeling adventurous, wade along the sandbar or stroll the mangrove boardwalk.
You may even be able to sneak in a siesta while the grandparents keep an eye on the kiddos!
visitindianrivercounty.com; 2200 South A1A, Vero Beach, FL 32963
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Honeymoon Island.Credit:Photo courtesy of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater
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