Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Red Reef Beach
BEACH
Sadly, Hurricane Sandy buried most of the artificial reef, but this beach is still tops for
water-lovers. There are lifeguards and great shallow pools for beginner snorkelers. Togeth-
er with neighboring South Beach Park, the beaches encompass some 60 acres of wild
shores.
WORTH A TRIP
EVERGLADES TOURS
The southeast coast isn't all glossy development and glitzy malls. Sandwiched between
the Hillsboro Canal and I-98 the
Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
encompasses
the northern reaches of the Everglades. To explore this 221 square mile wilderness, filled
with swamp ferns, cypress and nodding nixies, you need a guide. Stop at the visitors cen-
ter for exhibits, a movie and maps of walking and cycling trails.
To really get a feel for this forgotten corner of the southeast, Wild Lyle's
Loxahatchee
Everglades Tours
( 561-482-6107;
www.evergladesairboattours.com
;
15490 Loxahatchee Rd;
adult/child under 12yr $55/24.50; 9:30am-4pm) offers hourly eco-explorations on one of
eight custom airboats. Guests enjoy an adventure ride through swampy marsh, around
papyrus and hurricane grass, past long-winged birds, turtles and gators sunning them-
selves. At the halfway point, Lyle stops the boat, discusses the importance of the Ever-
glades and answers questions. You can't stump this guy. With nearly 40 years' experien-
ce, Lyle's explored the area thoroughly and even conducted rescue missions recovering
downed planes. Kid-friendly but science-drenched, an airboat ride with Lyle is a great way
to get to know a part of the world that most people don't understand.
Sleeping & Eating
Boca has a startling lack of hotels, the result of zoning laws that have privileged condo de-
velopment over tourism. There are a handful of chains off I-95, but if you're looking for
unique beachfront digs, you'll have to lay your head just north in Delray Beach.
Boca Raton Resort & Club
RESORT
888-498-2622;
www.bocaresort.com
;
501 E Camino Real; r $249-709;
)
