Bird Island Park in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, is a nature lover’s paradise. Nestled between lush mangrove forests, white sand beaches, and calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, the park offers many things to explore and do. From birdwatching and fishing to kayaking and exploring the boardwalks, Bird Island Park is a great place to experience the beauty of nature in its natural habitat. The park is situated on a small island in the Intracoastal Waterway near Ponte Vedra Beach, just north of Jacksonville. It is one of the few places in Florida where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Bird Island, or Kiokee Island, has been set aside as a state-designated bird sanctuary. It is home to a variety of tropical birds, including ospreys, eagles, and a variety of herons and egrets. Visitors to the park can take in some of the most breathtaking views in all of northern Florida. There are plenty of opportunities to take in the area’s beauty, from the sandy beaches to the lush mangrove forests. Those who visit the park from April to October will find the warm sea breezes and sandy beaches the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Learn more here.
The boardwalks provide a peaceful walk through the mangrove forests and offer views of some of the shorebirds that call these forests home. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of nature-oriented activities for the whole family. The park has four nature trails, offering great biking, walking, or horseback riding opportunities. There are also fishing piers and boat launches where visitors can launch boats or canoes to explore the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. The park is home to many species of birds. Birdwatchers can observe ospreys, wood storks, and a variety of herons and egrets. Bird-watching stations are set up throughout the park, where birdwatchers can have a better chance of witnessing a breeding pair or a flock of migrating birds. Those wishing to explore the park’s wildlife can cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway. Nature viewing cruises are available from local marinas and offer an excellent way to explore the park’s wonders. Guests can search for dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and wading birds as they make their way around the park. Learn more about Exploring Nature at Bird Island Park in Ponte Vedra Beach.