Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve is located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, a conservation area that covers seventy-three thousand acres. It is the most diverse and largest cultural and recreational center in the region.

The reserve continues to implement and educate visitors about environmental stewardship and the importance of maintaining and protecting local wildlife and plant habitats. Because it is so close to the city, the reserve is easy to reach and has more of an impact on visitors.

The reserve's upper section has varied trails, ideal for hiking. Visitors can take tours to many migratory birds and wildlife, including viewing the saltmarshes and coastal shoreline. Tortoise watches let visitors see these creatures life from birth to their entrance into the ocean. Other animals and birds are also featured, including foxes, snakes, frogs and storks.

Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve has many exhibits in its educational center. Activities are open to all ages, including movies and scavenger hunts. Open throughout the year, the reserve is popular for its trails, dam, beach and programs. Admission is very reasonable and many tours are free. Special group rates are available and parties and events are quite often held there within the main building.