What earns the area its Paradise Coast nickname are the estuaries, mangroves, cypress swamps, forests and beaches that are home to dolphins, birds, black bears, manatees and other wildlife. The area is home to several nature preserves, including Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve, as well as state, local and private nature parks perfect for bird watching, spotting other wildlife, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, photography, fishing and boating. Feel free to spend time outside whether you're an insect-fearing city slicker, a nature lover or something in between. Boardwalks, nature centers, canoe trails, waterways and swamp hikes present plenty of opportunities for exploration.