Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Solitude on St. George Island, Florida




We slept on the upper bunk of the Eurovan last night hoping to take advantage of the cross breeze. What we didn't anticipate was the added bonus of seeing a wonderful sunrise. What a great way to start the day. After our early morning coffee, we decided to bike to the beach and get in another swim before we packed up and headed out. Two hours later, we decided we had better hit the showers and the road. Today's drive along the coast ran the full gamut, from over the top obscene mansions to funky beach towns. I particularly liked the "taco trucks" or roadside food served up from Airstream trailers. After a few stops, we eventually pulled into St. George Island State Park, a rather remote place located on an island off the central coast of Florida. Once across the bridge we drove to the southern tip of the eponymous island to finally reach the small campground. While the campground was full, the beach was not. In fact, there was only one other family on the beach when we arrived. Sweet! The Gulf waters were just as warm as yesterday, and clear, but not nearly the deep blue aquamarine at Grayton Beach. There was also a considerably smaller surf, which was a little sad for Ned who had purchased a boogie board today in hopes of catching some waves. Nonetheless, a beach to ourselves is nothing to complain about! The beach is known for being a bird watcher's paradise and we were not disappointed. At one point, a Great Blue Heron hung out next to us. We were also visited by a variety of shorebirds, like the Least Tern, Sandpipers and the ubiquitous Gull. It's nice being in such a remote location and having a quiet evening "at home." Tonight we just grilled up some burgers and recovered from fun in the sun before taking a bike ride at dusk. We rode down a dusty dirt rode and realized before long we weren't alone. Two beady little black eyes would stare at you before scurrying across the road. We were dodging small white crabs between 4 to 6 inches. When we would occasionally ride across asphalt you would hear them clickity clack like tap dancers as you rode past. By the end of the bike ride it was completely dark and the crabs would be highlighted by our headlamps. All I kept thinking was, "don't fall off the bike"! Tonight we are being entertained by the sounds of a live bluegrass band from a nearby campsite. They're pretty darn good too! Today's pics - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:St. George Island State Park

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