This 682-acre conservation land is an eco-tourism haven featuring restored coastal habitat and 2.5 miles of kayaking and canoe trails. The Blueways Trails here connect to the Manatee River, Perico Bayou, and Palma Sola Bay, comprising over 3 miles of internal trails. A 5-mile round-trip adventure would start at the launch and meander through the preserve to Palma Sola Bay and back. In addition, there are 100 acres of open water tidal systems, 56 acres of marshland, and 30 acres of uplands. If you prefer to stay on land, there are two piers, a 500-foot boardwalk, six bridges, and 10 miles of coastal, shell, and paved trails, along with two 400-foot-long pathways through mangrove forests. A 40-foot-tall observation tower offers spectacular views of four counties and five bodies of water. The historic, 120-year-old Valentine House, moved to the preserve by boat, is the preserve’s visitor center. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent though SurferBus.com for $23 to $26 for kayaks and $45 for paddleboards for a half-day.