Lido Key 2008

Christmas day we had decided on paddling the mangrove tunnels at Lido Key. We had agreed to meet at 10:30 but as usual Suzette and I were very early. We went to the parking lot at the end of the key and walked the beach looking for shells and just enjoying the weather.

We drove to the launch area, 4 on the map in the link above. There were at least 2 outfitters there getting ready to unload their kayaks. Must have been 30 kayaks between the 2 trailers. There were already about 15 kayaks on the ground.

Outfitter kayaks lined up and waiting

We found out that the tide was to low to kayak through the tunnels and the outfitters gave us several of options. We thought of going to another location but ditched that and figured if we paddled around for about an hour thing's would be right for the tunnels.

We launched, Josh, Angie, Joyce, Rich, Linda, Suzette and I, and headed across the bay to Bird Key. We paddled around the canals for a while and headed back to the tidal flat to do a little shell hunting and have lunch.

The gang paddling a canal on Bird Key

On the tidal flat for lunch

This Great Blue Heron joined us for lunch. He didn't seem the least bit concerned we were there.

As we were eating lunch it became obvious that the tide had risen significantly so we headed to the mangrove tunnels. It was fantastic. I will let the pictures that follow speak for themselves.

Hooded Night Heron

Rosate Spoonbill and Brown Pellican

Rich and Linda in the mangrove tunnels.