Region Guide

Exploring the Wildlife in the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon A sailboat is seen here, sailed through the St. Lucie Estuary. Photo courtesy of the SFWMD.

The St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon are two magnificent stretches of natural beauty located along the east coast of Florida. The combination of coastal wetlands and vast estuaries offer a unique range of wildlife and animals that call this area home. With its lush vegetation, abundant birds, and incredible views, it’s no wonder why this region has become such an iconic destination for visitors from all over the world.

There is an abundance of wildlife in and around the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon. Both areas are famous for their abundance of aquatic life that ranges from manatees to sharks. This collection of diverse species makes the region ideal for bird watching, fishing, and kayaking. There are also a variety of species of fish, turtles, and mollusks for tourists to observe.

The St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon are managed and protected by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD). The SFWMD works to ensure that these areas remain healthy and thriving ecosystems. In order to preserve the wildlife, they have implemented several regulations. These regulations include enforcing certain water quality standards and minimizing the impact of human activities on the environment.

The SFWMD also offers several recreational activities and educational tours in the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon. The district offers sailing trips, which provide an exceptional opportunity to experience the estuary’s wildlife, as well as educational hikes and guided tours. Additionally, the SFWMD provides workshops and presentations about native plant species, local birds, and other information about the area.

In addition to providing recreational opportunities, the SFWMD also works to protect the fragile ecosystem of the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon. As part of their efforts, they have developed an Integrated System for Monitoring and Reporting (ISMR). The ISMR is designed to monitor and report water quality changes in the estuary and lagoon. The data collected through the ISMR provides crucial information about the health and vitality of the regions.

The St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon are a beautiful part of the natural surrounding Florida. The SFWMD works diligently to protect and preserve this area while allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the region. From sailing trips on a Sailboat SFWMD to educational hikes, there is something for everyone in this one of a kind region.

The St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon have also become a haven for wildlife photographers. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of wild animals, the area has become an ideal place to get up close and personal with nature’s wonders. Photographers may find rare species of birds, endangered lizards, and even manatees in their search for their perfect shot.

For visitors that don’t feel quite so brave, there is still plenty of opportunities to encounter the wildlife of the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon without having to get too close. Various boat tours are available on both rivers and estuaries. This provides tourists with an opportunity to view the stunning scenery from the water, as well as the many birds and other animals that inhabit the area.

Come night-time, the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon also provide visitors with stunning views. The area is surrounded by dark skies, full of stars and planets visible to the naked eye. From the dark skies come a myriad of native species, including owls, skunks, and opossums.

Fishing is another major attraction to the region. With so many different species of fish inhabiting the lagoon and estuary, fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of options. Species such as snook, speckled trout, ladyfish, tarpon, and sea bass make up much of the plentiful marine life in the area.

The St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon are also home to a wide variety of plants and flowers. Mangroves are a common site, adding some shade from the Florida sunshine to the estuary’s waters. Additionally, visitors can spot marsh grass, seagrass, sea oats, and various species of shrubs, along with various types of trees, shrubs, and vines.

The area of St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon is also a great place to observe some of Florida’s larger wildlife, such as alligators and dolphins. While alligators may not be the most beloved creature, these reptiles are an important part of the local ecosystem and should be respected and admired. Dolphins, on the other hand, are one of the more popular wildlife encounters in the area, and visitors can often be seen jumping and swimming alongside them while exploring the estuary and lagoon.

Visitors to the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon will also find a unique assortment of aquatic life. From jellyfish to crabs and shrimp, the waters are home to a myriad of creatures. Sea turtles are also a frequent sighting in the area, and visitors can take specialty tours to observe these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.

In addition to its incredible range of wildlife, the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon are also rich in history. The area was once the home of the Ais people, native inhabitants of Florida who inhabited the area for centuries. This historical presence can still be felt in the area, with remnants of their culture scattered throughout the region.

For those looking to explore the St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon, the area offers many exciting activities and attractions. Touring the estuary and lagoon by boat is a popular option, allowing visitors to observe the wildlife up close. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the nearby beaches and marinas, as well as visit local restaurants and shops for a taste of the local cuisine.

The St. Lucie Estuary and Southern Indian River Lagoon are truly an incredible destination and a must-see location for any traveler looking to explore the natural beauty of Florida. From observing the incredible wildlife to exploring the region’s vast array of flora and fauna, visitors to the area won’t be disappointed with what the region has to offer.