Sustainable Florida - June 23

SUSTAINABLE Florida

When talking about sustainable travel and Florida there’s an elephant in the room: the only way for us Brits to reach the State is by aeroplane, and aviation’s impact on the climate is well reported and discussed. The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) May 2023 report stated that travel and tourism was accountable for 8.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with international aviation contributing 13.8% of all travel and tourism emissions. Some would say that flying anywhere is not acceptable.

However, beyond environmental protection, talk around sustainability must also factor in social equity and economic viability. Should the restorative joy of travel and the mind-broadening benefits of being exposed to other people, places and cultures, as well as the employment and living standards that are elevated by tourism arrivals globally encourage you to still make that journey, then let us help you to make your next trip as sustainable as possible.

This Sustainable Florida supplement helps you consider how to travel when you’re in the USA, where to stay, and the things to do when you’re exploring the Sunshine State’s incredible destinations.

Lastly, as you know, every holiday booked through our social enterprise Charitable Travel enables a free 5% donation to charity – so why not choose a charity that protects the environment?

How to fly fairly. If you can, opt for the latest aircraft – Dreamliners and A350s are better for the environment. Fly non-stop, as take off and landing create the most emissions, and don’t fly business class (yes, you heard that right) – it generates a carbon footprint between 2.6 and 4.3 bigger than flying economy.

How to get around considerately. Take the train or bus – Florida has great public transport around resort areas. When you’re out and about, pick pedal or paddle power, and don’t rent a gas guzzler. Opt for an EV vehicle or a hybrid instead.

How to stay responsibly. Look for hotels with sustainable practices. No single use plastics and limited laundry is a minimum. Check its certification too – let us help you navigate this minefield to find places genuine in their sustainability. Lastly, opt for ‘farm to fork’ restaurants that buy local to reduce their emissions.

How to experience ethically. We’ve shared lots of things to see and do in Sustainable Florida that consider responsible travel. Think about wildlife protection and no-touch tourism – wildlife should be wildlife, unless it’s been rescued, and use your choices to also support the local heritage and culture for future generations.

Sustainable Florida ©CHARITABLE TRAVEL 2023. CHARITABLE TRAVELLER is part of CHARITABLE TRAVEL, Fundraising Futures Community Interest Company, Contingent Works, Broadway Buildings, Elmfield Road, Bromley, BR1 1LW, UK. Putting our profit to work supporting the work of charitable causes. T: 020 3092 1288 E: bookings@charitable.travel W: charitable.travel. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, CHARITABLE TRAVEL cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. CEO: Melissa Tilling; MARKETING: Ally Ware, Rosie Buddell, Adam Pedley & Maddy Foot; SALES: Ali Nicholls; MAGAZINE EDITOR: Rebecca Miles (editor@charitable.travel); MAGAZINE DESIGNER: Claire Gates. Cover image: Autumn Kuney at Unsplash.

BACK TO NATURE ON Amelia Island

Words Susanne Masters

Amelia Island’s edges shift constantly. Made of sand, and moved by waves, winds and tides, its border with the sea is not static. Plants of the dunes and saltmarsh hold on to sand and sediment, holding back the sea and shaping the island. A barrier island on north-eastern Florida’s Atlantic Coast, Amelia Island has 13 miles of beautiful beaches and, as a strategic port with natural resources, successive communities have been drawn to live here.

VIP INHABITANTS

Visitors to Amelia Island are reminded to think about the mariners to whom beaches are vitally important: sea turtles. Loggerhead turtles are the most common species nesting here, but green sea and leather-back turtles lay their eggs on the island too. After hauling out of the sea, turtles shuffle ashore and dig holes in which to lay their eggs, before returning to the water.

Catching maritime bounty started with the island’s first people, the Timucua, who made sure to release the first catch to ensure there was always enough fish for another day, and Amelia Island’s inhabitants continue with this ethos.

Although the odds are against being on a beach at exactly the moment hatchlings emerge from their eggs, you can spot the tracks they leave across the sand – they look like an imprint from a wide and rugged tyre. In order to protect turtles, beach goers are asked to not leave rubbish on the beach, to fill in holes dug in sand, and knock down sand castles to leave flat sand. It’s also important that beach-front properties close their curtains to prevent artificial light illuminating the beaches.

BEACHCOMBERS UNITE

While being careful to avoid leaving traces on Amelia Island’s beaches there is treasure you can collect: fossilised shark teeth. Collecting vertebrate fossils (such as reptiles and fish) requires a

permit, but these need none. St Mary’s River, which divides Georgia and Florida, empties into the Atlantic Ocean at the northern end of Amelia Island and drops fossilised shark teeth on the beaches of Fort Clinch State Park – ready for beachcombers to find among the tide line.

Dunes are more than simply picturesque for scenic sunset and sunrise views, they dissipate wave energy and even mitigate waves generated by hurricanes. Just beyond the water’s edge, beach pennywort is one of the plants that can grow in the extreme environment of dunes; it tolerates salty winds and stores water in its fleshy leaves. Sea oats stabilise dunes with their deep taproots and lateral roots; their response to being covered with sand is to grow. However, trampling by foot or driving over beach vegetation will damage it.

Loggerhead turtles are the most common species nesting here, but leather-back and green sea turtles lay their eggs here too

CHARACTERFUL SHOPS AT FERNANDINA BEACH

TURTLES LOVE AMELIA ISLAND

itKeeping real on Amelia Island

The Timucua lived on Amelia Island for over 3,000 years – learn more about the First Peoples at the Museum of History. Amelia Island State Park protects 230 acres of maritime forest, salt marsh, and beaches.

It only takes 10 minutes to cycle from Fernandina Beach to the Fort Clinch State Park main entrance, so the whole island is easy to cover with pedal power.

On Ash Street in Fernandina Beach the road divides around an old live oak, because in the 1890s Katherine MacDonnell Bailey, a pioneering conservationist, defended the tree from workers sent to cut it down for road expansion.

Little NaNa dune at American Beach is part of the dune system that nurtures inland areas of Amelia Island. Its shelter

and beautyberry, with bright pink berries. As much a part of Amelia Island as beach views, maritime forest provides a lush backdrop to the hiking trails that crisscross the island.

allows large plants, such as Spanish bayonet yucca and saw palmetto, to become established and support dunes to grow higher. Tall ancient dunes then provide enough protection to the interior of the island for maritime forest to grow.

Underneath a canopy dominated by live oak, which is shaped by the wind, the understory of Amelia Island’s maritime forest is rich with shrubs such as sparkleberry, a large blueberry,

Being on holiday is time to slow down, and one of the best ways to do that is to travel at the speed of cycling. Amelia Island has relatively flat terrain, which makes cycling easy and it’s recognised as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, meaning it has plenty of cyclefriendly infrastructure. On Amelia Island this includes car-free bike trails that give close up views of wild scenery.

On this island that is only two miles wide, you are never far from seeing the influence of the sea on land.

Being on holiday is time to slow down, and one of the best ways to do that is to travel at the speed of cycling

BIRDWATCHING

Bring binoculars to get a good look at birds without disturbing them. A pitstop on the north to south Atlantic flyway for birds, more than 300 species pass over or nest on the island. A highlight is Florida scrub jay, a rare bird that is endemic to Florida. Look out for them around oak scrub – each autumn they cache thousands of acorns, then dig them up and eat them over winter and spring.

4 FAVES IN

Amelia Island

GET TO KNOW SHRIMPS

Alongside the large marine animals, such as manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles that people expect to enjoy seeing, small marine creatures can be as beautiful and fascinating. One way to get good views with commentary from experts is by going on an eco-shrimping tour. A trawl net is used to catch shrimp, which are then displayed in an on-board aquarium that allows a close look at their identifying features before the shrimp are released back in the sea.

PADDLE EGAN’S CREEK

Egan’s Creek Greenway isn’t just for travel on land, the creek is navigable and you can join paddling tours that will give you views from the water. Wading birds – egrets, American wood storks, and in summer roseate spoonbills – are large and can be seen from a distance. Look down into the water and you might spot blue catfish and spotted sea trout too.

GO FOR A SEA SWIM

While on an island going for a sea swim is a must. Peters Point Beach has lifeguards on duty throughout the summer. While lifeguards are watching out for people, we can watch out for the marine wildlife by planning our sun protection in advance – choose coral-safe sun protection, apply it 20 minutes before you go into the sea, or even better, consider covering up with a SPF-rated rash vest and swim leggings.

FLORIDA SCRUB JAY

Sandhillcrane Wikimedia Commons

Pars Sahin at Unsplash

PLAN YOUR holiday

7-day itinerary

1 day

Depart from Orlando International Airport and drive to St. Augustine.

Explore St. Augustine’s historic district by foot or bike to minimise your carbon footprint. Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, which focuses on coastal conservation and preservation efforts.

Spend a full day in St. Augustine.

2 day

Take a guided ecofriendly boat tour on the St. Johns River to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife conservation, then head out under your own steam on a kayak tour with St. Augustine Eco-Tours to be eye level with the wildlife in the water.

3 day

Check into a sustainable accommodation on Amelia Island

that emphasises eco-friendly practices, such as energy conservation and waste reduction. Explore the island’s beautiful beaches and participate in beach clean-up activities to help preserve the coastal environment.

Book the experience

7 nights from £2,509pp (£250 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/7-nights-exploringnatural-amelia-island

4 day

Rent bicycles and explore the island’s bike-friendly trails and paths. Visit Fort Clinch State Park, known for its natural beauty and historical significance, and learn about its conservation efforts. Consider dining at local restaurants that prioritise sustainable sourcing and farm-totable practices.

5 day

Explore the local historic district in downtown Fernandina Beach, walking or cycling to reduce carbon emissions. Visit the Amelia Island Museum of History to learn about the island’s cultural heritage and preservation initiatives.

6 day

Visit the Amelia Island Nature Center and take part in educational programmes focused on environmental conservation. Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or birdwatching while respecting the natural surroundings. Consider supporting local artisans and businesses that promote sustainable practices.

7 day

Head back towards your starting location, with a stop in Gainesville. Visit the University of Florida’s Butterfly Rainforest, a sustainable exhibit that educates visitors about butterfly conservation and the importance of protecting pollinators. Explore Gainesville’s downtown area by foot, supporting local shops and restaurants that prioritise sustainability and local sourcing.

Return home via Orlando airport.

8 day

4-day itinerary

Check into the Omni Amelia Island Resort and spend the rest of the day exploring the pristine beaches of Amelia Island.

1 day

Stop for dinner at Burlingame Restaurant, known locally for its responsibly sourced seafood options from local fishermen.

2 day

Visit the Amelia Island Nature Center located at Omni Amelia Island Resort, where you can learn about the island’s ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Take a guided kayak tour with Amelia Island Kayak Excursions to explore the local waterways and observe the island’s wildlife while supporting a sustainable ecotourism operator.

Engage in birdwatching at the Amelia Island Greenway, a preserved area that provides habitats for various bird species. Enjoy dinner at David’s Restaurant & Lounge, which offers farmto-table dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients.

about the island’s cultural heritage and preservation initiatives. Dine at Burlingame Restaurant, where the talented young local chef creates a regularly changing menu of seasonal flavours.

Rent bicycles from Kayak Amelia and explore the island’s bike-friendly trails, including the Egans Creek Greenway, which provides a scenic route through preserved wetlands. Participate in a guided nature hike with Amelia Island Guides to learn about the island’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.

recycling whenever possible. Consider supporting local environmental organisations like the Wild Amelia Nature Festival, which promotes conservation and education about the island’s natural resources.

4 day

Reflect on your sustainable travel experiences and share your insights with others to promote ecoconscious tourism.

Support local sustainable businesses by purchasing eco-friendly souvenirs made by local artisans.

3 day

Visit Fort Clinch State Park, a wellpreserved historic fort surrounded by natural beauty. Learn about the park’s conservation efforts and take a guided tour of the fort.

Explore the local historic district in downtown Fernandina Beach, walking or cycling to reduce carbon emissions. Visit the Amelia Island Museum of History to learn

Enjoy an outdoor picnic using locally sourced food from the Fernandina Beach Market Place farmers’ market, held on Saturdays, supporting sustainable agriculture and local vendors.

For dinner, dine at Timoti’s Seafood Shak, a restaurant that focuses on sustainable seafood options and partners with local suppliers.

5 day

Return to the UK today, but before leaving, make sure to properly dispose of waste,

Book the experience

4 nights from £1,670pp (£167 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/4-nights-in-beautifulamelia-island

Words Peter Ellegard

DISCOVERING Daytona

As the birthplace of motor racing and home to the Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach may be best known for its association with speed – but it has an altogether quieter, slower and greener side as well.

From its 23 miles of beaches to numerous hiking and biking trails, wildlife-rich natural areas, sustainable attractions and cultural heritage, there is plenty to

and its theme parks, making it easy to get to and a popular choice for twin-centre breaks.

It has a wide choice of accommodation for visitors to base themselves in and explore the area, with a number of eco-friendly hotels (eg, Club Wyndham Ocean Walk and Best Western Aku Tiki Inn) having sustainable initiatives in place to help the environment. These include cutting out singleuse plastics, reducing energy and

to nest at night, the tiny hatchlings emerging two months later to evade predators and scramble down to the safety of the sea.

SEE THE WILDLIFE

Watch out for some of the area’s other marine life on a 90-minute dolphin and manatee tour aboard a flat-bottomed boat cruising the Intracoastal waterways between Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, or under sail on a catamaran that cruises the Halifax River and ventures out to sea. Both offer the opportunity to explore sand bars and islands on foot to hunt for shells. Alternatively, paddle a kayak to watch dolphin pods feed and frolic in Dolphin Cove.

do and see away from its bustling centre and its famous fast cars and motorbikes.

One of 11 coastal cities in Volusia County, Daytona Beach is located on Central Florida’s Atlantic coast just an hour’s drive from Orlando

water use, organising beach cleanups and working with sustainability companies, such as the charity Coastal Connections.

This organisation’s mission is to protect coastal habitats for sea turtle survival by educating and connecting people to the environment and so far it has rescued more than 500 turtles since it began in 2017. It’s estimated that 100,000 sea turtles come ashore in the Daytona Beach area from early May to October to lay their eggs on the beach.

Beachfront lighting is limited during the nesting season (it can deter turtles from coming ashore). Three species of threatened or endangered sea turtles – loggerhead, green and leather-back – return each year

Join a paddleboarding or kayaking eco tour along pristine rivers or off the ocean shoreline. First-timers can take surfing and stand-up paddleboarding lessons.

While cars are still permitted to drive and park on some designated stretches of beach, they are restricted to a maximum speed of 10mph. Aside from renting an electric vehicle when visiting Florida, a much greener option for cruising along the hard-packed sands is to rent a beach bike for a few hours or the whole day.

You don’t even need a car to get around. Votran, Volusia County’s public transportation system, operates almost 20 bus routes to shopping malls, parks, attractions, museums, sports venues and nearby towns in the area, with children under six travelling free. It also provides buses equipped

A much greener option for cruising along the hard-packed sands is to rent a beach bike for a few hours or the whole day

DE LEON SPRING

SURF’S UP

Discover more at Daytona Beach

Climb the 203 steps up 175-foot-high Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, Florida’s tallest, for panoramic coastline and wetlands views from atop the 135-year-old structure.

From November to March, hundreds of manatees leave the cold St Johns River waters to seek refuge in the 72ºC waters of Blue Spring.

Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon discovered De Leon Springs in 1513 when he is said to have been searching for the Fountain of Youth.

with wheelchair lifts or ramps and is able to accommodate electric wheelchairs and scooters. Accessible ramps and surf chairs allow the less able to enjoy the beach as well, while many attractions and restaurants are also fully accessible.

EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE

More than 70 miles of hiking and biking trails allow eco-explorers to take in the botanical and tropical diversity of Daytona Beach, with long-distance riders able to explore 45 miles of connected trails within Volusia County.

in museums and historic and cultural sites celebrating that heritage and honouring the legacies of influential Black leaders. The Smithsonian-affiliated Museum of Arts & Sciences houses a permanent African art collection of tribal and ceremonial objects, including masks and sculpted figures.

The greater Daytona Beach area contains five state parks, among them the natural warmwater springs Blue Spring and De Leon Springs.

The best time to go cycling or hiking is during the low and shoulder seasons between October and April, when the weather is cooler. Attractions, hotels and restaurants are still open and daytime temperatures are mild, although a jacket or sweater might be needed in the evenings.

Themed trails allow visitors to discover different aspects of Daytona Beach. African Americans were among the area’s first settlers and its Share the Heritage trail takes

The Monument and Statue Trail is an exploration of the area’s history through sculptures, markers and museums. It starts at Ormond Beach, where the Legend of Tomokie statue at Tomoka State Park commemorates the native Timicua people who inhabited the area for millennia.

Restaurants in and around Daytona Beach are flying the farm-to-fork flag, sourcing ingredients sustainably and locally. Among them is Rose Villa Southern Table & Bar in Ormond Beach, which buys its organic produce from small Florida farms and wild fish caught around the state’s waters.

It all adds up to a surprisingly slower pace of life in Daytona Beach.

UNDER THE SEA

Discover Daytona Beach’s rich undersea wildlife and ecosystems at Ponce Inlet’s Marine Science Center, which has been undertaking conservation and environmental education programmes since opening in 2002.   Here, you can view the centre’s medical facilities, which treat sick and injured sea turtles as well as seabirds and other marine animals, and learn how they are rehabilitated before being released back to the wild. Aquariums display the area’s diverse sealife and freshwater flora and fauna while a touch pool features resident stingrays. marinesciencecenter.com

4FAVES IN Daytona

WATER RECYCLING

A key part of the City of Daytona Beach’s long-term water reuse approach, the Bennett Swamp Rehydration and Conservation Project was completed in 2019 and redirects and disperses up to six million gallons per day of reclaimed water into several locations within the 1,423-acre Bennett Swamp. There are many environmental benefits of the $5.3 million project, but first and foremost it provides habitat and refuge for wildlife.

TWITCHERS DELIGHT

PANCAKES IN THE PARK

Customers at The Old Sugar Mill

Pancake House in De Leon Springs State Park can make their own pancakes on griddles on each table in the historic former watermill. Previously known as The Old Sugar Mill until October 2022, the former leaseholder ran it for 61 years.

The park spans 625 acres of Volusia County near Daytona Beach and is set around a warm spring. Expect to see manatees, alligators, deer, otters, turtles and black bears in the park. floridastateparks.org

Bird-lovers can feather their nest on eco-adventures in numerous spots in the area. Ponce Preserve, a noted spot for bird-watching, has been added to the eastern section of the Great Florida Birding Trail that encompasses more than 15 sites in Volusia County.

Other popular birding spots include Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, Hontoon Island State Park, Tomoka State Park and Boardman Pond, on the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail. A variety of shorebirds can be seen at Frank Rendon Park during the migratory season.

DE LEON SPRINGS STATE PARK MANATEES

MARINE SCIENCE CENTER

LAKE WOODRUFF CRANES

Spectacular sunrises paired with 23 miles of treasured white-sandy beaches.

What will you will find along The World’s Most Famous Beach? Warm sands. Gentle waves. Unspoiled and protected areas. 70 miles of hiking & biking trails. A rehabilitation center for seagulls and sea turtles. Historical sites that speak to our local history. Find out more at www.Charitable.Travel.

PLAN YOUR

7-day itinerary

Check in at your beach-side hotel and enjoy a casual dinner at Crabby’s Oceanside with panoramic views of the surf coast.

1 day 2 day

Take a morning cruise on the Arabella catamaran, spotting dolphins and wildlife in Ponce Inlet.

Visit the historic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse for a tour and enjoy 360-degree views.

Explore the Marine Science Center next door.

Have lunch at Off the Hook at Inlet Harbor and relax on the beach.

on the Fountain of Youth, enjoying wildlife sightings and learning about the area’s history.

Return to the beachside hotel for beach activities.

Take a behind-the-scenes track tour at Daytona International Speedway and, if available, enjoy an evening beachfront concert at Daytona Beach Bandshell.

4 day

Start the day with coffee or tea at Sweet Marlay’s and go paddleboarding with 3 Brothers Boards along the intercoastal waterway.

Visit the Riverfront Esplanade and see the Mary McLeod Bethune statue in Daytona Beach.

Tour the Casements in Ormond Beach, the winter residence of John D. Rockefeller.

Enjoy dinner at Rosa Villa Southern Table & Bar.

3 day

Have breakfast at Old Sugar Mill Pancake House in De Leon Springs State Park and make your own pancakes. Take an Echo Tours Boat cruise

5 day

Begin the day with a sunrise beach walk or yoga session, followed by lunch at ONE DAYTONA.

6 day

Explore Tomoka State Park, hike the nature trail, and observe the salt marshes and wildlife. Reserve a beachside table at Hard Rock Hotel for an evening concert.

7 day

Take a day trip to historic St. Augustine or visit Cape Canaveral on the Space Coast.

Enjoy breakfast, take in the sunrise, and dip your toes in the water before departing Daytona Beach.

8

7

4-day itinerary

Arrive in Daytona Beach and transfer to your hotel.

Experience a nighttime kayaking tour with Viking EcoTours.

Enjoy dinner at Crabby’s Oceanside.

Cruise on the Arabella, enjoying scenic views and wildlife sightings.

Visit Ponce Inlet Lighthouse for breathtaking 360-degree views.

Explore the Marine Science Center to learn about marine life.

1 day 2 day 3 day 4 day

Have lunch at Off the Hook at Inlet Harbor for Caribbean-infused flavors.

Enjoy dinner at Rose Villa, a charming Southern hospitality restaurant.

Breakfast at The Old Sugar Mill Pancake House in De Leon Springs State Park. Take The Fountain of Youth Boat Tour, learning about the area’s history and wildlife.

Start the day with coffee or tea at Sweet Marlay’s. Go paddleboarding with 3 Brothers Boards and explore the Riverfront Esplanade.

Visit the Casements, the winter residence of John D. Rockefeller.

5 day

Check out of your hotel and transfer to Orlando Airport for your onward journey.

Book the experience

4 nights from £1,119pp (£111 donation) offers.charitable.travel/ weekly-offers/4-nights-indaytona-beach/

GOING WILD INOrlando

Words Joanna Booth

It’s easy to associate responsible tourism with remote areas of wilderness, but the way we holiday in busy urban centres can have just as much impact. And if you didn’t expect the Theme Park Capital of the World to be leading the way when it comes to sustainability, prepare to be surprised.

Orlando is ranked as one of the greenest cities in America by EcoWatch, with a host of behind-

trees for citizens to plant, local government is walking the walk as well as talking the talk.

PROTECTING WILDLIFE

You don’t have to travel far from the lively downtown core to find habitats that support a rich range of native wildlife. A host of protected areas lie within easy reach, with wetland, prairie and forest ecosystems supporting everything from deer and bobcats

Cranes, woodpeckers and eagles like the Hall

Disney’s Animal Kingdom nearly 40 Guam kingfisher chicks have hatched, significantly raising the world population of these critically endangered birds, and works are currently ongoing to build two new 75MW solar farms. When they come online, two of Disney’s four parks will be powered by renewable energy.

SUPPORTING PEOPLE

the-scenes initiatives improving the environment for residents and visitors alike. From increasing its use of solar energy and retrofitting buildings to make them more efficient to providing 12,000 free

to the famous local alligators, easily spotted from an airboat tour of the Everglades, the northern reaches of which begin just south of Orlando. Birdlife is particularly bountiful: cranes, woodpeckers and eagles like the Hal Scott Regional Preserve and Park, while egrets, ospreys and peacocks flock to the Lake Apopka Restoration Area.

Even that most famous member of Orlando’s wildlife, Mickey Mouse, is doing his bit. The Disney Conservation Fund has protected one third of the land originally purchased for Walt Disney World Resort as a permanent conservation area, and helped to establish The Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve – 11,500 acres of restored wetland and upland habitats. At

Sustainability isn’t just about environmental protection; supporting people is equally key. Universal Orlando is committed to making the experiences at its parks accessible, with lifts and ramps making as many areas as possible wheelchair friendly, sign language interpretation for live action shows and a quiet room available for those with cognitive disabilities.

Give Kids

The World Village is an 84-acre, non-profit storybook resort where children with critical illnesses and their families from all over the world can take free, week-long holidays enjoying the accessible rides, theatres, pools and playgrounds. Alongside fundraising or donating, there are volunteering opportunities on offer even for visitors to Orlando, so you can give back during your vacation.

Orlando is also committed to being an inclusive destination, welcoming all travellers regardless of their gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or life stage. Its local residents represent a melting pot of cultures and you can learn about one of the first self-governing,

Scott Regional Preserve, while egrets, ospreys and peacocks flock to Lake Apopka

EATONVILLE STREET ART

Good news from Orlando

Orlando has pledged to transition its electric grid to 100% renewable energy by 2030 for municipal operations, and city-wide by 2050.

There are 500 nesting compartments for the declining purple martin songbird at Walt Disney World Resort, where more than 4,100 eggs have been laid in the past five years.

18 hotel brands in Orlando donate their unused soap to Clean the World, a non-profit that distributes recycled soap products to homeless shelters. The latest piece in Florida’s growing rail network has opened at Orlando International Airport; Miami can now be reached by train in under three hours.

all-Black municipalities in the U.S. at The Hurston in Eatonville, feel the influence of Orlando’s Asian American community at the multicultural Mills 50 dining and entertainment district, and discover Hispanic and Latino heritage at the Orlando Museum of Art. Orlando has earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, which measures the LGBTQ+ inclusiveness of cities’ laws, policies and services, and has regular pride celebrations and events.

GREENER CHOICES

Savvy choices will make your trip to Orlando more sustainable, often without you even noticing. Sixty Orlando hotels have been recognised by the Florida Green Lodging Certification Program, so there’s plenty of environmentally responsible places to stay. For example, Rosen Hotels & Resorts, which has seven properties in Orlando, converts its used cooking oil into biodiesel to power its maintenance vehicles, and financially supports education initiatives and cancer charities. Loews Hotels implements several green practices including food donations, eco-friendly linen washing policies, back-ofhouse recycling, and efficient technology, such as low-flow shower heads and fluorescent light bulbs.

If you’re travelling during the summer holidays, you can enjoy Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining event, which runs throughout August. You’ll enjoy a range of three-course, prix-fixe dinners at some of the city’s best restaurants, and $1 from each meal served will be donated to one or more deserving local charities.

You can even shop more sustainably on your trip, from custom vegan cosmetics at Rouge Beauty Lab to self-care and wellness products at Oh Eco. Orlando also has a host of fantastic vintage clothes shops – try Etoile Boutique in the Milk District, The Owl’s Attic and The Lovely Boutique in the Audubon Park Garden District and Diversion in Ivanhoe Village. Even your souvenirs can reflect Orlando’s increasingly sustainable way of life.

DELICIOUS FOOD

LEARN ABOUT THE PLANET AT ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER

From a Tiny Green Home showing off the benefits of recycling, renewable energy and composting to an exhibition on food systems and how to make them more sustainable, this familyfriendly attraction is packed with fun, interactive ways to learn more about the world. Coming later this year is Life, a new nature and conservation exhibition that will tell the story of conservation through the animals that share our planet. osc.org

4FAVES IN Orlando

EXPLORE ORLANDO WETLANDS PARK

This vast man-made wetland has a dual purpose. As well as providing advanced treatment-removing nutrients from reclaimed water, it also hosts a range of ecosystems, from marsh and wet prairie to hardwood cypress swamps, which have been created by planting 2.3 million aquatic plants and 200,000 trees. Stop off at the education centre to learn more, or come armed with downloadable checklists of flora and fauna to spot – from armadillos, bobcats, turtles and alligators to colourful butterflies and birds – before heading off to explore on foot, bike, horseback or on the free tram tours. orlando.gov

KAYAK THROUGH THE LOCAL SWAMPS AND RIVERS

Join a local kayak company and paddle through the hidden waterways found a lot closer to the city centre than you’d expect! Join anything from a two-hour guided tour to a multi-day kayak trek, and look for a company that is staffed by passionate and knowledgeable experts – being certified as Florida Master Naturalists is a good benchmark and demonstrates a commitment to the highest levels of environmental stewardship. Expect to see otter, alligators, turtles, giant wading birds, deer, and wild boar as you paddle through the local waters and navigate the Wekiva River or Okefenokee Swamp.

WATCH MANATEES IN THEIR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Manatees may look well-insulated, but these slow-moving vegetarians have only an inch of blubber and are badly affected by the cold. As a result, in the winter months many flock to Blue Springs State Park, just north of the City of Orlando, where a spring maintains the crystal-clear waters at a constant temperature of more than 22ºC. It’s a safe haven for these creatures, who are threatened by habitat loss, pollution and collisions with boats, so many choose to calve here. Stroll the extensive boardwalk to watch them without bothering them. floridastateparks.org

Suzanne

D Williams at Unsplash

Orlando BOOK A HOLIDAY

& DONATE TO CHARITY FOR FREE!

—Charitable Travel

Go beyond world-famous theme parks on your next visit to Orlando — way beyond. Explore the destination’s great outdoors with lush ecosystems, ecotours, natural springs, nature trails, fishing, kayaking, airboat rides and lots of thrills. Whether peacefully paddling through spring-fed lakes or hang-gliding 600 meters above orange groves, unforgettable eco adventures serve as the perfect counterbalance to Orlando’s signature theme park fun.

PLAN YOUR

7-day itinerary

holiday

Transfer from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and check in to your cabin at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort or another Florida Green Lodging Certified hotel, or rent an RV to stay at a local campsite or two.

1 day

Start the morning at the Disney Wilderness Preserve. Enjoy a hike and/or some bird watching.

2 day

Spend the afternoon on a kayak tour through Orlando’s rivers and swamps, closer to the city centre than you’d imagine, and expect to see alligators, turtles and giant wading brids.

Dinner at the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

3 day

Explore Lake Apopka today. Walk or cycle as much of the 14-mile trail as you fancy, with a picnic en route.

4 day

Start your morning at the Wallaby Ranch or Revolution Adventures for some high-octane, active fun, including hang gliding. Lunch and shopping at the Wharf located in Sunset Walk.

After lunch, head over to Showcase of Citrus for some shopping and light family activities. Dinner at Fort Wilderness Resort; either grill dinner at your cabin or campsite or stop at one of their many restaurants and enjoy the pool and other on-site activities.

Book the experience

7 nights from £1,675pp (£167 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/7-night-sustainableorlando-florida-break

charging onsite), or another Florida Green Lodging Certified hotel, and spend the evening relaxing at the pool. Dine at one of the on-site restaurants.

5 day

Check out of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Head over to Winter Park and start the day with a Winter Park Scenic boat tour. Have lunch at Ethos Vegan Kitchen. After lunch visit the area’s museums and shopping (head out by 4pm to avoid traffic). Our picks are Orlando Vintage Clothing and Costumes, Morse Museum, and the Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens. Check into a Loews hotel (EV

6 day

Visit the Orlando Science Center, a great place to learn about science and nature.

Take a walk through the Harry P. Leu Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden with a variety of plants and flowers.

Have dinner at City Works Eatery & Pour House

7 day

Early this morning, head out to explore the natural springs at Kelly Park Rock Springs (during the summer and on weekends, the park hits capacity early).

Pack a lunch or pre-order subs from Publix. Rent paddle boards, kayaks or tubes, and have dinner at Café Tu Tu Tango.

After dinner walk over to Icon Park to shop and enjoy family activities.

8 day

Transfer back to the airport to head home.

4-day itinerary

Transfer from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and check in to Rosen Centre, or another Florida Green Lodging Certified hotel. Rosen Centre has an EV charging station on site.

Ethos Vegan Kitchen.

1 day

Relax and enjoy lunch or dinner (depending on the time of your flight) at Café Tu Tu Tango.

After lunch walk over to Icon Park for some shopping and family fun activities.

Enjoy an evening paddle board/ kayak adventure with Epic Paddle Adventures. During the summer, gators are more present and active at night, the best time to see them.

2 day

Take a 10am Morning Boat tour with Winter Park Scenic Boat Tours, followed by lunch at

In the afternoon visit the Orlando area museums and do some shopping, highlights include: Morse Museum, Albin Polasek Museum, Rollins Museum of Art, and Orlando Vintage Shopping. Have dinner at Hamilton’s Kitchen at Alfond Inn Rollins College.

Take a boat tour through the Everglades, a vast wetland ecosystem with a variety of plants and animals. Have dinner at deep blu Seafood Grille.

4 day 5 day

Transfer back to the airport to head home.

3 day

Start the morning with a Catboat tour with Catboat escapes, followed by lunch at Minneola Tiki Bat at Lake Minneola.

If you’re missing your pets at home, visit the Orlando Cat Cafe to play with some feline friends. Not a cat person? Stop by the Lakeridge Winery and take a tour.

End your day at the Clermont Waterfront Park.

Book the experience

4 nights from £995pp (£99 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weekly-

AUTHENTICALLY Anna Maria Island

AND Bradenton

Words Tracey Davis

With sidewalks made of sea shells, droughtresistant plants and net-zero holiday homes, Florida’s Anna Maria Island is the queen bee of sustainable tourism – and is home for lots of manatees too!

Seven miles long, half a mile wide and fringed with coralwhite beaches, Anna Maria Island – a barrier island on the Gulf of

Mexico – is all about laid-back beach life. Promising a bounty of fresh seafood, rum cocktails and endless good times, this corner of Florida is light years away from the raucous roller coasters the Sunshine State is known for.

With palm-fringed streets lined with candy-hued clapboard houses and retro motels with mid-century modern signage (strict building

regulations mean nothing is over three stories high), it has a laidback vintage Florida feel. It’s a vibe only enhanced by the friendly locals; the salt-licked skaters dressed in board shorts, Fiftiesinfluenced young dames and chirpy septuagenarians dressed uniformly in Hawaiian shirts, the official Florida uniform. It feels like the proper Florida. Back in the 1920s, Anna Maria Island was quite the holiday hot spot. The hoi polloi would arrive in their hordes on steamer ships from Tampa and St Petersburg to picnic on its pristine white shores and paddle in the warm Gulf seas. Fast-forward a century and this tiny shiny beach enclave is now being lauded for its sustainability.

KEEPING IT REAL

Located 50 miles south of Tampa and over the bridge from Bradenton, with its buzzing downtown district and artists community, Anna Maria Island and its neighbouring Longboat Key have been offering the tropical idyll for more than a century. In the last decade, Anna Maria Island has been lauded as an exemplary example of how sustainable tourism should be done.

Anna Maria Island is an authentically Floridian town, where folk live life locally. There are no high-rise hotels, condos or big chain names out on the island – instead you can stay at low-rise beach-front motels or in colourful clapboard houses and support

Anna

Anna Maria Island and its neighbouring Longboat Key have been offering the tropical idyll for more than a century

SUNSET FROM THE PIER

Eco initiatives in Anna Maria Island & Bradenton

Historic Green Village has platinum LEED status, a green building certification programme recognised globally, one of only 100 places in the world.

All Clams on Deck is a local conservation initiative which restores seagrass, clam sites and oyster beds to improve the water quality in the Gulf.

independent businesses.

Of course, behind every great sustainable town is a loyal community who love it. Ed Chiles, owner of The Sandbar bar and restaurant, and island native the late Michael Coleman created the Pine Avenue Restoration company. Over the past ten years, they completely revamped the once-derelict Pine Avenue and turned it into the vibrant heart of the island – still keeping its sun-bleached Floridian vibes.

Dubbed ‘the Greenest Little Main Street in America’, they set about rebuilding the 1930s clapboard homes and businesses on Pine Avenue authentically, but with modern, energy-saving materials. They replaced the concrete sidewalks with paths of crushed shells and built an island-wide rainwater collection system.

the poster girl for sustainability in tourism. Take the free island trolley or hire an electric golf cart and buzz down to the very south of the island to Bradenton Beach and the small fishing community of Cortez, the oldest in Florida, for a grouper sandwich in one of the beach-front cafes.

Love it like a local – Bradenton is a partner of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.

Historic Green Village is Florida’s first zero-net energy commercial development.

At the heart of Pine Avenue is the Historic Green Village, Florida’s first Zero Net Energy shopping and arts district. British couple Lizzie and Mike Thrasher – who fell in love with the island while on holiday in 2005 and quickly made it their home – built the village around three century-old homes. Now this ‘solar business district’ has an art gallery, a gift shop and a bakery, all locally owned and run, plus free recharging stations for electric vehicles.

LEADING THE WAY

A chance visit by the United Nation World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in 2014 meant Anna Maria Island’s tiny beach enclave and its brilliant green credentials has since become

After sun-drenched days spent sunbathing or spotting manatees and dolphins from the island’s beautiful beaches, it’s time for a sundowner in a beach bar. Florida’s Gulf Coast is renowned for having some of the most beautiful sunsets in America.

The best way to see them is barefoot on the terrace at the Sandbar. Opened in 1949, Sandbar is part of the furniture on Anna Maria Island, and is a great place to dine with your toes in the sand. All the seafood served is sustainably sourced, most of it from down the road at the historic Cortez fishing village, while the veggies are homegrown on a nearby farm. And, of course, you won’t see a plastic straw or single use bottle in sight. Heaven.

BEACH HOUSE

LEARN ABOUT MANATEE REHABILITATION AT BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE

Ecology, education and conservation may be the pillars of the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton, but it’s also the best place to learn about manatees. The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat was once home to Snooty – who at 69 was the world’s oldest manatee – and now you can learn about the endangered gentle giants of the sea through the rehabilitation programme which has recovered, nursed and released 45 manatees back into the wild. bishopscience.org

4

FAVES IN Anna Maria Island AND Bradenton

GO KAYAKING ON THE ROBINSON PRESERVE

As an alternative to a beach day, why not explore the inland saltwater channels around Bradenton. These eco-friendly paddleboarding and kayaking tours get a ’gator’s eye view of the Robinson Preserve, a 600-acre nature reserve. Surferbus offers kayak and paddle board hire, where you’ll spot the resident roseate spoonbills, pelicans and storks as you glide through the mangroves and marshes. robinsonpreserve.com

A SEGWAY TOUR OF ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Fully battery powered, Segways are a great green and emissionfree way to get around Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key and Bradenton’s beaches. Zegway by the Bay offers a range of eco-friendly tours of the island. Starting at Holmes Beach, the two-hour guided tour explores the length of Anna Maria Island, including Pine Avenue and City Pier right up to Bean Point on the northern tip. zegwaybythebay.com

CRUISE AROUND LONGBOAT KEY AND ANNA MARIA ISLAND ON AN ELECTRIC BOAT

Silent engines and zero emissions, Seafari Eco Tours offer the ultimate in sustainable cruising. Quietly gliding around Sarasota Bay, the all-electric 22’ Duffy Sun Cruiser is perfect for spotting the bottlenose dolphins and manatees who roam the warm Gulf waters. There are several boat trips on offer, from private tours to two-hour sunset cruises and all with complimentary beers and champagne on board. ecoseafari.com

Anna Maria Island & Bradenton

If you know, you know…

PLAN YOUR

7-day itinerary

Arrive in the Bradenton Area and check into your hotel. We recommend the Sandbar for dinner, a beach-side restaurant where you can tuck your toes in the sand while you tuck into the freshest seafood.

1 day 2 day

Walk the boardwalks of the Manatee Viewing Center to see these gentle giants up close. Have lunch at the Grateful Bread Cafe, before taking a walk or bike ride on the Manatee Riverwalk.

Ditch the car and take a bike ride to get your bearings. While exploring, grab an ice cream at Two Scoops or an interesting doughnut at Donut Experiment. In the afternoon, wind down from your bike ride and chill out on the beach. Head to Motorworks Brewery for a bite to eat and a stylish beer garden to relax in.

3 day

4 day

Visit the Bradenton Farmers Market, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and other locally made goods. Take a day trip to Anna Maria Island, a beautiful barrier island with white-sand beaches and clear blue water. Have dinner at the Sandbar Restaurant, which has a casual atmosphere and a great view of the Gulf of Mexico.

a recreation of a 16th century native village.

5 day

Try your hand (and foot) at stand-up Paddleboarding out on Bradenton Beach, followed by a pamper session at Sea-renity Beach Spa & Eco Boutique for a beach-side massage in a tiki hut! Grab a bite to eat at Poppos for fresh Mexican-inspired food. It’s fast, casual, and hard to beat. Spend the afternoon exploring the small business and handmade craft stores buying responsible souvenirs to bring home. Head to Pine Avenue, known as ‘The Greenest little Main Street in America’. For dinner, try Beach Bistro for beachfront dining with some stunning sunset views.

6 day

Today visit De Soto National Memorial. Created in 1948, the park’s mission is to commemorate the 1539 expedition of the Spanish Conquistador Hernando de Soto and his impact on the American Indian societies of the Southeast. The highlight of the park’s activities includes living history programmes and demonstrations at Camp Uzita,

7 day

Start the day with breakfast at Ginny & Jane E’s, for fresh items from the iconic bakery and café surrounded by local art and unique finds. Head up to Bean Point at the tip of Anna Maria Island for a beach day. Stop off at Anna Maria Oyster Bar for lunch. With more than just oysters on the menu, enjoy award-winning seafood with spectacular views. Round off your stay in the Bradenton Area with a sunset sailing, and dinner at Chateau 13.

8 day

Make your way back to the airport for your journey home.

Book

7 nights from £1,279pp (£127 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/7-nights-exploringthe-bradenton-area

Anna Maria Island & Bradenton

TWO SCOOPS ICE CREAM

4-day itinerary

Arrive at Tampa Airport and check into your hotel. For dinner, we recommend local legend, Sandbar for delicious and locally-sourced seafood while you dig your toes in the sand.

1 day 2 day 3 day

Ditch the car and take a bike ride to get your bearings. While exploring, grab an ice cream at Two Scoops or an interesting doughnut at Donut Experiment. In the afternoon, wind down from your bike ride and chill out on the beach. Head to Motorworks Brewery for a bite to eat and a stylish beer garden to relax in.

Try your hand (and foot) at stand-up paddleboarding out on Bradenton

Beach, followed by a pamper session at Sea-renity Beach Spa & Eco Boutique for a beach-side massage in a tiki hut! Grab a bite to eat at Poppos for fresh Mexican-inspired food, fast, casual, and hard to beat. Spend the afternoon exploring the small business and handmade craft stores buying responsible souvenirs to bring home. Head to Pine Avenue, known as ‘The Greenest little Main Street in America’. For dinner, try Beach Bistro for beachfront dining with some stunning sunset views.

Start the day with breakfast at Ginny & Jane E’s, for fresh items from the iconic bakery and café surrounded by local art and unique finds. Head up to Bean Point at the tip of Anna Maria Island for a beach day.

Book the experience

4 nights from £995pp (£99 donation)

offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/4-days-beach-breakin-bradenton

Stop off at Anna Maria Oyster Bar for lunch. With more than just oysters on the menu, enjoy award-winning seafood with spectacular views. Round off your stay in the Bradenton Area with a sunset sailing, and dinner at Chateau 13.

4 day 5 day

Make your way back to the airport for your journey home.

CELEBRATING St. Pete AND

Words Portia Jones

Situated on a sun-drenched peninsula separating Tampa Bay from the Gulf of Mexico, the laid-back beach cities of St. Pete and Clearwater offer a dreamy, responsible escape to the shore with a downtown twist. Just 90 minutes from the theme park capital of Orlando, this forward-thinking twin city destination is a relaxing alternative to the high-octane coasters and bright lights of Mouse Town.

Clearwater

experience for travellers who want to explore beyond Florida’s famed theme parks.

Averaging 361 days of sunshine annually, St. Pete/Clearwater is ideal for a family beach break with its Caribbean-style climate and warm waters for bathing and water sports.  Enjoy miles of white sand beaches, boutique shopping, and a contemporary arts and culture scene packed with museums, galleries and off-beat festivals.

Part of Florida’s Pinellas County, St. Pete/Clearwater is part of an array of unique communities and coastal neighbourhoods, each with a distinct character, offering an authentic and beachy lifestyle

Visitors can feast on sustainablycaught grouper sandwiches, join a dolphin-spotting tour, kayak in emerald waters, explore street art in downtown St Pete and enjoy the nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60.

SUSTAINABLE BEACH LIFE

Those pristine beaches are a big draw for sun-seekers and families who want a seaside vacation with plenty of activities and opportunities to unwind.

Thanks to responsible beach management and strict visitor rules – including no alcohol and no dogs – Clearwater and St. Pete have some of the best beaches in Florida, where you can relax on sugar-white sand, swim in warm Gulf waters and photograph its famous fiery sunsets.

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, the cities and surrounding regions are committed to environmental stewardship. Several sustainability initiatives and conservation programmes are now in place to preserve its natural heritage and delicate coastal habitats, including membership of the American Flood Coalition, which works to make the area more resisitant to flooding.

From eco-friendly resorts and renewable energy initiatives to wildlife conservation and community engagement, this sunny destination sets the bar high for sustainable travel experiences and responsible tourism practices.  Here, you’ll find a range of beach clean-ups and conservation programmes, as well as marine life rescue, rehabilitation and public education programmes to protect delicate ecosystems and magnificent landscapes.

On a broader scale, St. Pete/ Clearwater is integrating sustainability into its decision-

Thanks to responsible beach management and strict visitor rules, Clearwater and St. Pete have some of the best beaches in Florida

ST. PETE LOOPER TROLLEY

Making changes in St. Pete and Clearwater

St Pete is introducing more solar energy to the city, promoting electric car and creating more energy efficient programmes.

Clearwater has established emission reduction goals based on the GHG inventory results and aims to Reduce citywide greenhouse gas emissions 25% below 2007 levels by 2035.

making and policies, which address environmental, economic, and social equity challenges that will have a profoundly positive effect on residents and future visitors.

Along with lofty climate goals, the region prioritises protecting and restoring its wildlife-rich coastal habitats. These attract many tourists – eager to spot resident dolphins, armadillos, turtles, white-tail deer and sea birds.

attractions and protected natural spaces, hotels and resorts in the county are making numerous eco improvements.

Florida’s Green Lodging Program lists hotels and resorts that have made a commitment to conserving and protecting the state’s natural resources, so you can see how green your stay truly is.

The Don CeSar Hotel in St. Pete uses special lighting on its exterior, designed to protect sea turtle hatchlings from being misdirected away from the Gulf.

The Tampa Bay Estuary Program and its partners have implemented several projects to restore and enhance wetlands, seagrass beds, and oyster reefs, which serve as crucial habitats for various species and contribute to the estuary’s overall health.

Through these vital restoration efforts, St. Pete/Clearwater aims to improve water quality, enhance biodiversity, and create resilient ecosystems that should last for generations.

GREEN GOALS

St. Pete/Clearwater is currently home to 13 Green Lodging-rated properties – including The Don CeSar, Hyatt Regency Clearwater and RumFish Beach Resort by TradeWinds & TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort.

These green hotels and resorts incorporate a range of sustainable features from water conservation, recycled building materials and Florida-friendly landscaping to exterior lighting designed to protect sea turtle hatchlings.

In 2020, Clearwater enrolled in Duke Energy’s Clean Energy Connection program, which could result in 40 per cent of the electricity the city government received from the utility sourced from solar systems.

Meanwhile, St. Pete’s Integrated Sustainability Action Plan (ISAP) contains ambitious climate action goals, including a transition to 100% clean energy.

Clearwater is also becoming more proactive on climate goals since the city adopted the Greenprint 2.0 plan, which details environmental initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Marine conservation is crucial to the city’s environmental stewardship, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) plays a significant role in marine protection, rehabilitation, and public education.

Along with eco-focused leisure activities,

Meanwhile, travelling without a car is slowly becoming more accessible in Florida with new train stations and routes that link up major cities like Orlando and Miami. In St. Pete/Clearwater, you’ll find walkable downtown and coastal areas and a lowcost trolley service that connects the area’s attractions, neighbourhoods, and beaches.

With continued eco commitments and environmental initiatives, if you’re looking to travel more responsibly in St. Pete/ Clearwater, there are plenty of ways to have a more sustainable visit.

Discover eco-minded attractions, restaurants serving locally sourced food, bike trails and public transport options, all with the aim of helping you reduce your impact and keep your holiday green.

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM, RESCUE AND REHABILITATION CENTRE

Located on Clearwater Beach, this renowned, non-profit marine preservation hub is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured marine animals along the Gulf Coast. Along with engaging exhibits and interactive displays, there is a strong focus on education – inspiring visitors to make sustainable choices and become stewards of the oceans. Here, you can observe the rehabilitation process up close and learn more about the resident dolphins, turtles and playful otters, and the specialised medical care they receive from veterinarians and animal experts. cmaquarium.org

4 FAVES IN

St. Pete AND Clearwater

HONEYMOON ISLAND STATE PARK

Beneath its pristine beaches, saltwater marshes, and coastal forests, Honeymoon Island State Park is committed to sustainability and preservation. This ecological gem showcases a harmonious balance between human recreation and environmental conservation, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an idyllic escape into nature.

THE FRED MARQUIS PINELLAS TRAIL LOOP

SUNKEN GARDENS

In the heart of downtown St. Pete, Sunken Gardens is the oldest living museum in the area and is a beautiful botanical haven and one of the last remaining Florida roadside attractions. Along with bountiful plants, there’s a focus on sustainable landscaping practices and diverse educational, horticultural, and cultural activities to preserve these historic gardens. With a centurylong history, the gardens feature a remarkable collection of lush plants and foliage, some of which are among the oldest in the region. Stroll through this sub-tropical oasis and explore a living collection of plants, flowers and trees as you wander among the demonstration gardens, cascading waterfalls, parrots and a flock of flamingos. sunkengardensfoundation.org

Following the path of an old railroad, the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Loop covers 75 miles and stretches from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg, with connections to Palm Harbor, Dunedin, Clearwater, Safety Harbor, Largo, Seminole, South Pasadena and Gulfport. Whether you’re cycling, walking, skating or scooting, the trail provides a scenic and sustainable way to get around the area. Using a disused railroad that had been abandoned, the trail winds its way along the coast with plenty of sea views, as well as dipping in and out of the interesting towns that line the route. At whatever pace you take the trail at, you’ll find plenty of rest areas, benches and water fountains to keep you fresh.

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM

SUNKEN GARDENS

PINELLAS TRAIL

HONEYMOON ISLAND

LET’S SHINE.

Dive into endless activities in the warm Gulf waters of St. Pete/Clearwater. From kayaking to kitesurfing and paddleboarding to snorkeling, the emerald stage is set for unforgettable memories.

Let’s shine—start your adventure at charitable.travel/stpete-clearwater

PLAN YOUR

7-day itinerary

Arrive at Tampa International or Orlando International Airport and pick up your EV hire car, then head to the stunning shores of the Gulf Coast. Check into a green hotel, such as Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa. Take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk to Pier 60, where artisans create crafts and street performers entertain. Explore the beachside bars and restaurants for dining options. In the afternoon, visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a marine life rescue centre. Enjoy the evening at a beachside restaurant like Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill or Palm Pavilion.

1 day

or relaxing on the beach. Enjoy a picnic or BBQ at Honeymoon Island. In the afternoon, take a Little Toot Dolphin Adventure Tour to spot dolphins. Have dinner at Clear Sky Café, offering a variety of options for all tastes and dietary requirements.

3 day

Drive to Fort de Soto Park and join a Bay E-Bikes Tour. Have lunch at Love Food Central Café, a vegan and gluten-free restaurant. Spend the afternoon at Sunken Gardens St. Pete, a botanical paradise in the city. Enjoy dinner at Oak & Stone St. Pete, tasting local brews with bar bites.

Explore the new St. Pete Pier in the morning, offering various attractions for the family. Walk along Beach Drive and dine outdoors. Visit the Salvador Dali Museum and James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in the afternoon.

5 day 6 day

Spend the morning at the beautiful beaches of St. Pete/Clearwater. Engage in water activities and enjoy waterfront dining at John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk. If possible, attend a sports game at Tropicana Field or Al Lang Stadium. Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant or bar with a sunset view.

2 day

Head north to Honeymoon Island State Park, a fourmile barrier island with diverse wildlife. Visit the nature center to learn more about the park’s animals. Take a short ferry to Caladesi Island for kayaking among mangroves

4 day

Start the day with a yoga session on the beach. Join a mural tour in downtown St. Pete or explore the city’s streets to discover murals. Have a healthy lunch at Pacific Counter on Central Ave. Visit Fairgrounds St. Pete, an art gallery showcasing local artists. Enjoy dinner at Cider Press Vegan Gastro Pub in the Grand Central District.

7 day

Discover Weedon Island Preserve, a natural area with unique ecosystems. Enjoy a picnic by the shore and visit the Florida Botanical Gardens in the afternoon. Freshen up before heading back to the UK.

7 nights from £2,599pp (£260 donation) offers.charitable.travel/ weekly-offers/7-nights-ofsustainable-luxury-in-stpete-clearwater

4-day itinerary

Book the experience

Arrive at Orlando International Airport and pick up your EV hire car, heading to the Gulf Coast.

Check into a green hotel, such as Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa. Explore Clearwater Beach and its attractions.

Walk along the boardwalk to Pier 60 to see artisans and street performers. Visit beachside bars and restaurants for dining options.

In the afternoon, visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a marine animal hospital focused on rescue and rehab.

Enjoy the evening at a beachside restaurant, such as Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill or Palm Pavilion, with fresh seafood.

1 day 2 day

Explore Honeymoon Island State Park, a fourmile barrier island with diverse wildlife.

Take a ferry to Caladesi Island for kayaking or relaxing on the beach. Have a picnic or BBQ at Honeymoon Island’s picnic pavilions. Go dolphin spotting on a Little Toot Dolphin Adventure Tour, preferably during sunset.

Dine at Clear Sky Café, offering a variety of options.

Drive to Fort de Soto Park and join a Bay E-Bikes Tour. Enjoy the beach and bring sunscreen.

Have lunch at Love Food Central Café, a vegan and gluten-free restaurant.

Visit Sunken Gardens St. Pete, a botanical paradise in the city.

Explore the new St. Pete Pier with its shops, restaurants, and familyfriendly attractions.

Enjoy dinner at Oak & Stone St. Pete, featuring local brews and bar bites.

4 nights from £1,559pp (£155 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/4-nights-exploringsustainably-in-st-peteclearwater

Start the day with beach yoga to feel refreshed.

Join a mural tour with Florida Craft Art or explore the city’s streets to discover downtown murals.

Have a healthy lunch at Pacific Counter known for fresh poke bowls. Visit Fairgrounds St. Pete, an art gallery featuring local mural and installation artists.

Dine at Cider Press Vegan Gastro Pub in the Grand Central District.

4 day 5 day

Relax at your hotel before returning the EV hire car at Orlando Airport for your onward journey.

GET ACTIVE IN

Florida’s Sports Coast

Words Catherine Renton

With its blend of nature, adrenaline-filled activities, beaches, and culture, Florida’s Sports Coast is one of the state’s best-kept secrets. Located in Pasco County, just north of Tampa, a trip to Florida’s Sports Coast promises memory-making adventures among wildlife preserves, thriving state parks, and a shoreline of seagrass and salt marshes to protect the marine biodiversity.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Florida’s Sports Coast covers four major towns: New Port Richey, Wesley Chapel, Dade City, and Zephyrhills. Nearly half of the county is open space, water or

agricultural land, and there’s something to please everyone, whether you’re an active traveller, dedicated foodie, thrill-seeking family or fishing enthusiast.

WHERE TO BEGIN

The best way to enjoy the historic downtown of New Port Richey is on foot, with charming shops, art galleries, cocktail bars and cafes to check out. The area is a seafood lover’s paradise, with fresh catches filling the local restaurants. The town has an eye on eco-tourism, and visitors can explore the area on e-scooters or take a kayak or paddleboard for a trip along the Pithlachascotee River.

Wesley Chapel is home to Epperson Lagoon – a 7.5-acre man-made, crystal-clear body

of water. A first-of-its-kind in the United States, the lagoon’s ultrasound technology uses thousands of sensors to efficiently keep the water pure, using 50 times less water than a park of the same size and 30 times less water than an 18-hole golf course. At the lagoon you’ll find areas for swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking, as well as sandy beaches, a swim-up bar, cabanas and a floating obstacle course for all the family to enjoy. In Florida’s Sports Coast you’ll find the West Tract of the Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve. This 37,350-acre wildlife management is home to alligators, white-tailed deer, bobwhite quail, armadillos, grey squirrels, feral hogs and numerous bird species. Although portions are subject to seasonal flooding, a large part of the preserve is not swamp land but upland hardwoods, pine flatwoods, and open prairie land. Hikers will appreciate the many miles of marked trails, and kayakers can launch near the entrance of River

Visitors can explore the area on e-scooters or take a kayak or paddleboard for a trip along the Pithlachascotee River

WERNER BOYCE SALT SPRINGS STATE PARK

FRESH SCALLOPS

Cleaning up in Florida’s Sports Coast

Every March, Pasco takes part in a national litterpicking event. In 2023, 780 volunteers picked up 14.48 tons of trash.

In 2021 Keep Pasco Beautiful established a Fertilizer Education and Outreach Program to help protect seagrass, a key food source for manatees.

Road and paddle the Withlacoochee in either direction.

Saddlebrook Resort, a 480-acre resort in Wesley Chapel, is purposely planned as a car-free walking village, encouraging resort guests to walk everywhere. Every Earth Day, a household hazardous waste collection takes place, accepting items including light bulbs, batteries, oil, gas and paint.

The islands of Anclote Key house the Anclote Key State Preserve, whose beach dunes form a vibrant coastal ecosystem. These secluded islands, accessible by boat, are a favourite gathering place for nesting birds and returning sea turtles. In addition, the seagrass grown around the islands is a flourishing site for manatees, bottlenose dolphins, and marine invertebrates. While there, you can sunbathe on the powder-soft beach, search through the abundance of shells, wade in shallow waters or watch the sunset over the horizon.

ACTIVITIES A GO-GO

Those seeking high-octane thrills will love Skydive City in Zephyrhills, where novices can take part in a tandem skydive, or veteran jumpers can enjoy one of the United States’ best drop zones. At the Treehoppers Aerial Adventure Park in Dade City, you and the rest of the family can navigate through 10 courses with more than 100 unique elements, including cable walkways, wood obstacles and adrenalinecharged zip lines.

The waters off of the western side of Pasco

County are rich with grouper, snapper, cobia, tarpon and blue marlin, and many local fishing charters now operate a catchand-release policy to limit the stress on marine life.

While the coast attracts anglers, paddlers and even divers, inland cyclists are typically found cruising along the Suncoast Trail, a 42-mile paved trail that runs parallel to the Suncoast Parkway, passing by rivers, wetlands, and wildlife crossings.

Between the area’s parks, vibrant nature trails, local seafood, exhilarating zip line courses and nearby islands, Florida’s Sports Coast is the ultimate sustainable adventure destination for all the family.

STARKEY PARK

SCALLOPING SEASON

Scalloping season in Pasco County is an annual mollusc extravaganza, this year running from 1 July to 6 August. With limits set and controlled by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to maintain the sustainability of local scallop populations, it’s often compared to an underwater Easter egg hunt. Book a fishing guide who will provide you with everything you need for your adventure, including snorkels, mesh bags and the necessary licences, as visitors are limited to two gallons of whole bay scallops per person or a maximum of 10 gallons per boat per day.

4 FAVES IN

Florida’s

Sports Coast

VISIT A FARMERS MARKET

SCALLOPING

A vibrant, friendly gathering, the Trinity Farmers Market takes place monthly and is well worth a visit if you’re in town at the right time. Bringing together over 70 independent local farmers, artisans, businesses and non-profits to share their products and services, it’s a joy to wander among its stalls and browse everything on offer. Look out for succulent berries, juicy watermelon, and crisp cucumbers before enjoying some tasty street food and live music. trinityfarmersmarket.org

TRINITY MARKET

WERNER-BOYCE SALT SPRINGS STATE PARK

KUMQUAT GROWERS

Florida kumquat, known as the ‘little gold gems of the citrus family,’ are harvested from November to April. In St. Joseph – known as the kumquat capital of the world – the Gude family has owned and run the biggest farm since 1918, and the annual Kumquat Festival in January brings over 40,000 visitors to sample the famous kumquat pie, chutney, kumquat beer, ice cream, and the fruits themselves. kumquatfestival.org

A birder’s paradise, with several viewing stands located on the trails to spot bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, the elusive black rail, hawks, wading birds, shorebirds and migratory songbirds. Kayak and paddleboard rental allows you to sweep through the inlets and bayous that run along the county coastline. View the wildlife hidden in the mangroves that line the waterways and salt marshes or paddle out to the stilt houses that are sprinkled along the Gulf. floridastateparks.org

BALD EAGLE

Ingo Doerrie at Unsplash

Paul Hanaoka at Unsplash

PLAN YOUR

7-day itinerary

holiday

Arrive in Florida’s Sports Coast, Pasco County and check into the Saddlebrook Resort. Embark on an adventure at TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park in Dade City, then stop for lunch at Steph’s Southern Soul Restaurant in Dade City, before rounding out the afternoon at Hearts & Dreams Ranch and Retreat. The ranch is by appointment only – so be sure to book in advance.

1 day

This evening have dinner at Green Door on 8th in downtown Dade City.

Have breakfast at Florida Cracker Lunch, before heading to the Pioneer Florida Museum. After lunch at Kafe Kokopelli in downtown Dade City, spend the afternoon browsing the antique shops and boutique stores, supporting all the many small independent businesses.  This evening, enjoy dinner at The Pearl in the Grove, a charming farmto-table restaurant in Dade City.

2 day 3 day

Enjoy breakfast in the Saddlebrook Hotel before spending the morning birdwatching at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, before lunch at The Social.

This afternoon, spend some time at Sweetwater Organic Farm, a sustainable farm offering tours and workshops. Then check out Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey, a riverside park with walking trails, picnic areas and a playground.

This evening, have dinner at Zen Forrest, an Asian fusion restaurant known for its sustainable seafood.

After breakfast at Hershell’s Scratch Kitchen, join a guided tour on foot or by kayak with Salty Dog Kayak Company at Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park. Take a short drive up to the hidden Sam’s Beach Bar in Hudson for lunch. With a big deck and a sweeping ocean view, it’s perfect for a casual lunch and a mai tai.

Visit SunWest Park, a 70-acre spring-fed lake and recreational area featuring a sandy beach, wakeboarding and the Aqua Park inflatable water playground.

Enjoy dinner at The Local Public House, a farm-to-table restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Spend a day at one of Anclote Key Preserve State Park’s pristine beaches, then captain your own boat for a half day with Windsong Charters and Boat Rentals. We recommend taking a picnic. Check into the Hacienda Hotel in New Port Richey for the remainder of your stay in the area.

4 day 5 day 6 day

Following breakfast at Sasha’s at The Hacienda, it’s time to head to Starkey Market & Farms, a sustainable market that showcases local produce and artisanal goods. Try Zim Zari American-style restaurant for lunch, then discover the wildlife and natural beauty of

the James E. Grey Preserve. Take a leisurely hike along the nature trails and keep an eye out for native bird species. Stop by Big Storm Brewing Company, a local micro brewery for a pint of their seasonal craft beer.

7 day

Join a guided mangrove kayak ecotour with Gill Dawg Adventure Tours and explore the natural beauty of the Cotee River. Take a relaxing stroll in downtown New Port Richey and stop for a tea for two at The White Heron Tea Room.

The Stilt House Sunset Cruise will give you an up-close look at the iconic on-the-water stilt houses.

8 day

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey home.

7 nights from £1,550pp (£154 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/7-night-sustainableflorida-sports-coastadventure

THE LIFT INFLATABLE WATER PLAYGROUND

4-day itinerary

Arrive in Florida’s Sports Coast, Pasco County and check into the Saddlebrook Resort or another eco-certified hotel in the area. Embark on an adventure at TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park in Dade City, then stop for lunch at Steph’s Southern Soul Restaurant in Dade City, before rounding out the afternoon at Hearts & Dreams Ranch and Retreat. The ranch is by appointment only – so be sure to book in advance.

1 day

This evening, have dinner at Green Door on 8th in downtown Dade City.

This evening, enjoy dinner at The Pearl in the Grove, a charming farmto-table restaurant in Dade City.

Enjoy breakfast in your hotel before spending the morning birdwatching at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, followed by lunch at The Social.

Park, then take a short drive up to the hidden Sam’s Beach Bar in Hudson for lunch.

Visit SunWest Park, a 70-acre spring-fed lake and recreational area featuring a sandy beach, wakeboarding and the Aqua Park inflatable water playground.

2 day

Have breakfast at Florida Cracker Lunch on Limoges, before heading to the Pioneer Florida Museum in Dade City.

After lunch at Kafe Kokopelli in downtown Dade City, spend the afternoon browsing the antique shops and boutique stores, supporting all the many small independent businesses.

This afternoon, spend some time at Sweetwater Organic Farm, a sustainable farm in Pasco County offering tours and workshops. Then check out Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey, a riverside park with walking trails, picnic areas and a playground.

This evening, dine at Zen Forrest, an Asian fusion restaurant known for its sustainable seafood choices.

3 day 4 day

Have breakfast at Hershell’s Scratch Kitchen Join a guided tour on foot or by kayak with Salty Dog Kayak Company at Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State

Enjoy dinner at The Local Public House, a farm-to-table restaurant that features locally sourced ingredients.

Return to Tampa airport to fly home.

5 day

4 nights from £975pp (£97 donation) offers.charitable.travel/weeklyoffers/4-night-sustainableflorida-sports-coastbreak

Book your next sustainable holiday with Charitable Travel

Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing sunsets on the beach, hiking through the hills on an adventurous escape or journeying to a country you’ve not visited before, our team of travel experts are here to help you plan and book your next sustainable adventure.

Plus, when you book with Charitable Travel you can donate 5% of your holiday cost to a charity of your choice… completely free!

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