can spot crocodiles here as well as a myriad of bird species, including the spectacular pink Roseate Spoonbill. Boat rentals can be found at Mile Marker 90.5, and experienced guides are also available. Boat rentals start around $150 a day.

Florida Keys nature tours by kayak are a great way to experience the grass flats, mangrove forests, marine life, birds, native plants, and animals of the Florida Keys. Outfitters such as Reflections and Big Pine Kayak Adventures, both based in Big Pine Key, offer custom and group tours in addition to kayak rentals. Three hour guided tours start at about $50. Sunset and full moon tours are also available. Kayak rentals are available for about $45 a day.

At Crane Point Hammock, at Mile Marker 50.5 in Marathon, visitors can explore nature trails leading through tropical forest to fabulous views of Florida Bay. Other attractions include the Museum of Natural History, Marathon Wild Bird Center, Adderley Town Historic Site, and a Children's Activity Center. The park is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Noon to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

In the Lower Keys, don't miss a visit to the National Key Deer Refuge near Mile Marker 31 on Big Pine Key, where you can catch a glimpse of the tiny Key Deer. These deer, which grow only two and a half feet tall, were nearly hunted to extinction by the mid-20th century. The current population is between 700 and 800.

Vacationers who stay in a can also explore the colorful marine life and coral reefs of this area by diving and snorkeling in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary throughout the Keys.

Florida Keys Nature Tours Florida Keys nature tours are a great way to experience the natural wonders of this 120-mile long chain of tiny islands off the south coast of Florida. The Dolphin Research Center, located at Mile Marker 59 on Grassy Key, offers a variety of educational and hands-on programs for learning about these fascinating creatures, including the opportunity to swim with the dolphins. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. seven days a week but is closed on major holidays including New Year's Day, Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Facilities include free parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a snack bar. West of Plantation Key is Florida Bay, known as the "backcountry" of the Florida Keys. This natural wonderland of mangroves, winding channels, and abundant wildlife is the perfect location for a Florida Keys nature tour. Guests of

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