Castaway Island Preserve

Families and kayakers will enjoy the extensive salt marsh and pine flatwoods comprising this preserve. Educational panels make this trail great for kids. and a raised, 900-foot boardwalk extension with two observation overlooks provide great views of the salt marsh. Wood Storks, Tricolored Herons and Snowy Egrets can be seen along the Intracoastal Waterway. At low tide launch a canoe or kayak at the end of the boardwalk. Keep an eye skyward for Northern Harriers and Tree Swallows in the winter and Swallow-tailed Kites between spring and fall. A covered observation platform on the edge of the marsh provides opportunity to look and listen for Clapper Rails, Marsh Wrens and migratory shorebirds like Spotted Sandpiper. Check the butterfly garden near the entrance for hummingbirds and resident butterflies. On the north side of the preserve, follow the paved interpretive trail through the pines looking and listening for Pileated Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Eastern Bluebird and Pine Warbler.