The Enigmatic Beauty of Florida Coastal Islands in the Gulf of Change

Florida's Gulf Coast is renowned for its stunning coastal islands that dot the expansive blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. These islands, basking in the sun-soaked glory of the Sunshine State, are a hidden gem for both locals and tourists alike. Embark on a virtual journey with us as we explore the enigmatic beauty of Florida's coastal islands and get lost in their breathtaking landscapes.

You commented on this!

The Islands of Sanibel and Captiva – Where Seashells Reign

Prepare to be captivated by the allure of Sanibel and Captiva Islands, where the beaches are adorned with extraordinary seashells. Located just off the coast of Fort Myers, these sister islands are a paradise for shell enthusiasts, also known as "shelling" by aficionados.

As you stroll along the sandy stretches of beach, you'll be immersed in a mesmerizing world of shells in all shapes, colors, and sizes. The islands' unique east-west orientation captures an abundance of shells, making it a hotspot for shelling aficionados. The sun-drenched shorelines are perfectly sculpted by the gentle lapping of the Gulf's turquoise waters, leaving countless shells for you to discover. Whether you're a casual collector or a devoted hunter, Sanibel and Captiva Islands offer an unrivaled shell treasure trove.

Coming to Pass: Florida's Coastal Islands in a Gulf of Change

by Susan Cerulean(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8068 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	305 pages

FREE

Explore Gasparilla Island – A Haven of Tranquility

If you're seeking a tranquil getaway, look no further than Gasparilla Island, located off the coast of Southwest Florida. This pristine barrier island has managed to retain its old Floridian charm and remains relatively undiscovered. With no high-rise condos or crowds, Gasparilla Island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The quiet streets of the island's charming town, Boca Grande, exude a quaintness that takes you back in time. It's easy to lose yourself in the island's rich history, which revolves around the early 20th-century fishing industry and the lavish Gasparilla Inn, a classic coastal resort. Whether you're exploring the island's lush nature preserves or indulging in a fishing excursion, Gasparilla Island is a place where relaxation and tranquility truly reign.

Cumberland Island – A Wilderness Oasis on Florida's East Coast

While most of Florida's coastal islands lay claim to the Gulf of Mexico's shores, one exceptional island calls the Atlantic Ocean its neighbor. Cumberland Island, located off Georgia's coast, is a natural paradise boasting pristine beaches, dense maritime forests, and wild horses that roam free.

Stepping foot onto Cumberland Island feels like entering a time capsule that reveals the untamed beauty of the natural world. The island's unspoiled beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, inviting visitors to take long, peaceful walks along their shores. These serene stretches of sand are also the perfect spot to witness stunning sunrises and enjoy unmatched solitude.

As you delve deeper into the island's interior, you'll encounter majestic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, which add an ethereal touch to the already magical surroundings. Exploring Cumberland Island's diverse ecosystems will remind you of the importance of preserving our natural wonders.

Delight in the Beauty of Honeymoon Island

True to its name, Honeymoon Island is a romantic oasis located on Florida's Gulf Coast. Nestled near Dunedin, this barrier island offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of wildlife. It's the perfect destination for beach-loving couples or anyone seeking a peaceful escape.

The island is renowned for its natural beauty, which can be enjoyed by taking a leisurely stroll along the white sand beaches or observing the local seabirds and butterflies in their natural habitat. The warm waters of the Gulf beckon you for a refreshing swim, while the shaded trails provide an opportunity for a pleasant hike through the island's lush vegetation, offering stunning panoramic views.

Whether you spend your day sunbathing, picnicking, or exploring the island's nature trails, Honeymoon Island is sure to leave a lasting impression with its unspoiled charm that rejuvenates the spirit.

Florida's coastal islands in the Gulf of Change are a true testament to the state's unrivaled natural beauty. From the exquisite seashells of Sanibel and Captiva Islands to the tranquility and history of Gasparilla Island, and the enchanting wilderness of Cumberland Island to the romantic retreat of Honeymoon Island, each island offers a unique experience that will leave you yearning to return.

Escape the ordinary, and embark on an unforgettable journey to these coastal paradises. Allow the sun-kissed shores, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife to captivate your heart and soul. Florida's coastal islands are waiting to bewitch you with their enigmatic beauty.

Coming to Pass: Florida's Coastal Islands in a Gulf of Change

by Susan Cerulean(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8068 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	305 pages

FREE

Coming to Pass tells the story of a little-developed necklace of northern Gulf Coast islands. Both a field guide to a beloved and impermanent Florida landscape and a call for its protection, Susan Cerulean’s memoir chronicles the uniquely beautiful coast as it once was, as it is now, and as it may be as the sea level rises.

For decades, Cerulean has kayaked, hiked, and counted birds on and around Dog, the St. Georges, and St. Vincent Islands with family and friends. She has collected scallops, snorkeled over a fallen lighthouse a mile offshore, and cast nets and fishing lines into cyclical runs of mullet and shrimp.

Like most people, she didn’t know how the islands had come to be or understand the large-scale change coming to the coast. With her husband, oceanographer Jeff Chanton, she studied the genesis of the coast and its inextricable link to the Apalachicola River. She interviewed scientists as they tracked and tallied magnificent and dwindling sea turtles, snowy white beach mice, and endangered plants. Illustrated with images from prizewinning nature photographer David Moynahan, Coming to Pass is the culmination of Cerulean’s explorations and a reflection of our spiritual relationship and responsibilities to the world that holds us.