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Suggestions???

Traveling from Palm Beach to Sanibel and would like to stop off in Everglades National Park to check another park off our list. Based on our travel plan, where would be the best place to enter the park? Any suggestions for a driving route would be greatly appreciated!

Driving from Palm Beach to Sanibel gives you a great opportunity to experience the Everglades without deviating too far from your route. Since your ultimate destination is Sanibel, the most convenient and scenic entrance to the Everglades is via the Shark Valley Visitor Center or the Royal Palm area of Everglades National Park.

Best Entrances and Routes:

  • Shark Valley Visitor Center: Located near US-41 (Tamiami Trail) in Miami, this entrance offers a 15-mile loop road ideal for a self-driving tour or renting a bike. You’ll see plenty of wildlife, including alligators, wading birds, and turtles, and there is an observation tower halfway through the loop for panoramic views.
  • Royal Palm Visitor Center / Anhinga Trail: Also on the Tamiami Trail, slightly east of Shark Valley, this entrance is famous for the Anhinga Trail. This short boardwalk trail is extremely popular for wildlife spotting, including birds, alligators, and turtles. It's perfect if you only have a short stop and want to stretch your legs.

Suggested Driving Plan:

  • From Palm Beach, take I-95 south toward Miami, then connect to US-41 (Tamiami Trail) west to enter the park at Shark Valley or Royal Palm.
  • Spend 1–2 hours exploring Shark Valley loop or 30–60 minutes at the Anhinga Trail, depending on your interest and time.
  • Continue west on US-41 through the scenic Everglades towards Fort Myers, then connect to Sanibel via FL-867 or via I-75 and the Sanibel Causeway.

Additional Tips:

  • Bring insect repellent, sun protection, and plenty of water, especially in July.
  • Wildlife is most active in the early morning or late afternoon, so timing your stop can enhance your experience.
  • Check park alerts for any road closures or wildlife advisories before you go.

This route allows you to enjoy a classic Everglades experience without taking a significant detour from your trip to Sanibel, combining both a scenic drive and opportunities for wildlife observation.

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