Castaway Island Preserve protects more than 300 acres of coastal habitats along the meandering, estuarine San Pablo River. The gentle mile long trail skirts the estuary and pine flatwoods. Beginners and experienced birders will enjoy the extensive salt marsh and pine flatwoods comprising this preserve. Wood Storks, Tricolored Herons and Snowy Egrets can be seen along the Intracoastal Waterway. On the trail, we will look for Pileated Woodpeckers, Northern Flickers and Pine Warblers. A covered observation platform on the edge of the marsh is an added bonus (bring a scope).

Cradle Creek Preserve offers a canopy of old-growth upland forests, saltwater marshes, and panoramic views of the creeks that feed the Intracoastal Waterway. The Preserve provides habitat protection for endangered and threatened plant and animal species including the Least Tern, Bald Eagle, and Wood Stork. Meeting Place: 2885 San Pablo Road South. GPS coordinates: 30.2961,-81.4336

Directions:
From downtown Jacksonville, follow US 90 (Beach Blvd) 14 miles east towards Jacksonville Beach. Turn north on CR 10 / San Pablo Road. Continue about a half mile north to the park entrance on the right. Drive in along the entrance road and park your car just past the nature center.