Barefoot Beach Preserve

The Preserve is comprised of 342 acres on a barrier island.  It is separated from the mainland by mangrove swamps and tidal creeks.  The preserve also contains a tropical coastal hammock and is bordered on the west by 8,200 feet of beach and low sand dunes.  The state tree, the Sabal Palm, can be found within the hammock along with other trees such as Gumbo Limbo and Sea Grape.  The protected Gopher Tortoise lives within the hammock.  Pelicans, gulls, terns, and sandpipers can be seen in or near the surf looking for food.  During the summer months, sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.