Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands. In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be: On a leash no longer than 6 feet Under control at all times Kept out of wildlife areas and water These rules are in place to protect: Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals) Fragile ecosystems Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here) If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

Can I visit Goodland and Everglades City in the same day?

Yes. They’re close enough that many visitors do both in one day. It’s an easy way to experience two very different sides of the Ten Thousand Islands area. Helpful pages: Goodland | Everglades City

Does Goodland have beaches?

No. Goodland is a working waterfront village, not a beach town. Visitors looking for sandy beaches usually head to Marco Island or other nearby areas. Helpful page: Goodland

Can I fly my drone in Everglades National Park? No, drones and other unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park, or any other National Park Service site. This includes model airplanes, quadcopters, etc. ( nps.gov )

How to get to Keywadin Island, and what should I bring?

Keywadin Island is only accessible by boat. People reach it from several nearby launches, including Marco Island, Everglades City, and Port of the Islands, depending on where they’re coming from and the conditions. While the island is undeveloped, there are trash cans placed in popular areas, and on busy days boat-based vendors often come by selling items like ice cream, drinks, and simple food. Visitors should still plan ahead by bringing water, sun protection, and anything they’ll need for the day, and always pack out personal trash and respect the natural setting.

Long Term Parking in Port of the Islands

Where can I park my car if I’m leaving in a boat for an extended trip? Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Can I reserve the Mcleod Park for an event? To Reserve the City Park for an Event contact the City Clerk at (239) 695-4558 or email: Dsmallwood@cityofeverglades.org ( CityofEverglades.org )

Trip Time to the Ocean From Port of the Islands

How long does it take to get out to the ocean from Port of the Islands It usually takes around 45 minutes to cruise from the Port of the Islands to the ocean. The journey includes navigating through a long, no-wake zone canal, providing a delightful and unhurried ride. Bring a cover for sun protection during this slow and scenic route. About half an hour in, you’ll arrive at the expansive and naturally beautiful mangroves before reaching the open waters of the ocean.

What are the best ways to experience the Everglades?

The Everglades isn’t something you just drive through and check off a list. The best way to experience it is to slow down. Walk a boardwalk trail, spend time on the water, or explore with someone who knows the area. A mix of trails, scenic drives, and guided tours gives you a much better feel for this place than any single stop. Helpful pages: Things To Do | Parks | Boat Tours

Where can I park in Port of the Islands

In Port of the Islands, where can I park if I’m going out on the water? You can park in the parking lot by Port of the Islands Marina. Check with The Ship Store at (239) 642-3133 or Port of the Islands Marina at (239) 389-0367.

Where is Chokoloskee located?

Chokoloskee is a small island community just across the bridge from Everglades City. It sits right on the edge of the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, surrounded by water, mangroves, and backcountry routes. Helpful Pages: Chokoloskee

Where is Goodland located?

Goodland is a small waterfront fishing village located between Marco Island and Everglades City. It sits on the edge of the Ten Thousand Islands and is surrounded by water, mangroves, and working docks. Helpful page: Goodland

Where is Ochopee located?

Ochopee is a small rural community along Tamiami Trail (US-41), east of Everglades City, right in the heart of the Everglades. It’s not a town in the traditional sense — more a stretch of road where long-time families still live and work. Helpful page: Ochopee

Where can I hunt in Everglades National Forrest? Hunting is permitted exclusively in Big Cypress Preserve. Visit our hunting page for more details.

Port of the Islands Archives

Port of the Islands

New Restaurant in Port of the Islands Hotel
Gallery
New Restaurant in Port of the Islands Hotel

Community, News

New Restaurant in Port of the Islands Hotel

Staff2025-03-20T10:33:22-04:00March 22, 2025|Community, News|

If you’re looking for something new and exciting right here in our area, you’ve got to check out the Saigon to Paris Café at the Port of the Islands Resort.

Florida Bass Gains Official Recognition
Gallery
Florida Bass Gains Official Recognition

Fishing, Wildlife

Florida Bass Gains Official Recognition

Staff2025-03-20T10:37:59-04:00March 21, 2025|Fishing, Wildlife|

At its February meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recognized Florida bass as a unique species and incorporated the name change into rules.

Fishing Insights
Gallery
Fishing Insights

Fishing, Fishing Report

Fishing Insights

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:03-04:00March 21, 2025|Fishing, Fishing Report|

March is here and we are seeing some warmer weather. But, as you know it also means high winds!

AI: Your Secret Gardening Tool – Making Your Garden Thrive
Gallery
AI: Your Secret Gardening Tool – Making Your Garden Thrive

News

AI: Your Secret Gardening Tool – Making Your Garden Thrive

Staff2025-03-19T12:19:30-04:00March 19, 2025|News|

As March brings in prime gardening season in the Everglades, local gardeners are discovering an unexpected ally in their quest for the perfect garden: artificial intelligence, or AI.

There’s Bears in Those Everglades!
Gallery
There’s Bears in Those Everglades!

Wildlife

There’s Bears in Those Everglades!

Staff2025-03-13T14:03:12-04:00March 16, 2025|Wildlife|

When my wife and I moved to the Everglades in 2019 to take the pastorate on Chokoloskee Island, we figured the change from one rural area to another would be simple.

Mmm… That Sweet Vanilla
Gallery
Mmm… That Sweet Vanilla

Wildlife

Mmm… That Sweet Vanilla

Staff2025-02-25T14:34:07-05:00March 11, 2025|Wildlife|

Vanilla, the flavor superstar we all know and love, has a wild and fascinating story—especially in Southwest Florida.

Bob Signs Off
Gallery
Bob Signs Off

Community, News

Bob Signs Off

Staff2025-03-10T11:34:12-04:00March 10, 2025|Community, News|

For the past four years, Reverend Dr. Bob N. Wallace has been a cherished part of the Mullet Rapper, contributing thoughtful, humorous, and insightful articles.

Tips & Tricks For Blueberry Bliss
Gallery
Tips & Tricks For Blueberry Bliss

Community

Tips & Tricks For Blueberry Bliss

Staff2025-02-25T14:33:37-05:00March 10, 2025|Community|

There’s something magical about wandering through a blueberry patch, plucking plump, sun-warmed berries straight from the bush.

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Zero to 1
Gallery
Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Zero to 1

Fishing

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Zero to 1

Staff2025-02-25T14:32:00-05:00March 8, 2025|Fishing|

The summer morning fog dissipated as we neared the mouth of Gordon’s Pass. Idling across Naples Bay, I pelted Captain Joel Pepper of Fish-N-Fever Charters with questions.

Spring Time Fishing Is Looking Good
Gallery
Spring Time Fishing Is Looking Good

Fishing, Fishing Report

Spring Time Fishing Is Looking Good

Staff2026-03-09T07:01:04-04:00March 6, 2025|Fishing, Fishing Report|

With the temperatures staying up the Snook fishing has definitely picked up.

No. Dogs must always be kept on a leash when visiting Everglades National Park and surrounding park lands.

In most areas, dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or backcountry routes at all, even on a leash. Where pets are permitted (such as certain roadside or developed areas), they must be:

On a leash no longer than 6 feet
Under control at all times
Kept out of wildlife areas and water

These rules are in place to protect:

Sensitive wildlife (including birds, reptiles, and mammals)
Fragile ecosystems
Your dog’s safety (alligators, snakes, and heat are real risks here)

If you’re traveling with a dog, it’s best to check specific park rules before visiting or plan pet-friendly activities outside the national park boundaries.

New Restaurant in Port of the Islands Hotel

New Restaurant in Port of the Islands Hotel

Florida Bass Gains Official Recognition

Florida Bass Gains Official Recognition

Fishing Insights

Fishing Insights

AI: Your Secret Gardening Tool – Making Your Garden Thrive

AI: Your Secret Gardening Tool – Making Your Garden Thrive

There’s Bears in Those Everglades!

There’s Bears in Those Everglades!

Mmm… That Sweet Vanilla

Mmm… That Sweet Vanilla

Bob Signs Off

Bob Signs Off

Tips & Tricks For Blueberry Bliss

Tips & Tricks For Blueberry Bliss

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Zero to 1

Adventures of the Saltwater Cowboy: Zero to 1

Spring Time Fishing Is Looking Good

Spring Time Fishing Is Looking Good

FAQ’s

Are dogs allowed off leash in the park?

Can I visit Goodland and Everglades City in the same day?

Does Goodland have beaches?

Drones in the Park?

How to get to Keywadin Island, and what should I bring?

Long Term Parking in Port of the Islands

Reserve Mcleod Park?

Trip Time to the Ocean From Port of the Islands

What are the best ways to experience the Everglades?

Where can I park in Port of the Islands

Where is Chokoloskee located?

Where is Goodland located?

Where is Ochopee located?

Which Park to Hunt