Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve
Explore over 200 acres of mangrove marsh and coastal uplands on scenic boardwalks, a haven for gopher tortoises and birdwatchers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and see more wildlife.
Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve
Best Time
Beat the heat and see more wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 200 acres of mangrove marsh and coastal uplands on scenic boardwalks, a haven for gopher tortoises and birdwatchers.
"An absolute gem of a place for a summer walk with jumping fish and cute little crabs!"
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water as there's very little shade on the boardwalks. :sunwithface:
🐢 Tortoise Spotting Fun
Gopher tortoises are abundant! Keep a respectful distance and enjoy observing these fascinating creatures. :turtle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elevated Boardwalk Trails
Throughout the preserve
Wander through diverse ecosystems on scenic boardwalks, offering stunning views of mangroves and mudflats.
Gopher Tortoise Encounters
Various areas along trails
Spot numerous gopher tortoises in their natural habitat – a highlight for many visitors, especially families.
Abundant Birdlife
Mangrove areas and uplands
A paradise for birdwatchers, with frequent sightings of cardinals and other coastal bird species.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Boardwalk Life
Wildlife Wonders Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water as there's very little shade on the boardwalks. :sunwithface:
🐢 Tortoise Spotting Fun
Gopher tortoises are abundant! Keep a respectful distance and enjoy observing these fascinating creatures. :turtle:
🦀 Crab & Fish Watch
Look for small crabs scuttling on the railings and fish jumping in the water below the boardwalks. :crab::fish:
🚶♀️ Family-Friendly Strolls
The boardwalks are perfect for a leisurely walk with kids, offering plenty to see and do for a couple of hours. :familywomanwoman_boy:
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and water as there's very little shade on the boardwalks. :sunwithface:
🐢 Tortoise Spotting Fun
Gopher tortoises are abundant! Keep a respectful distance and enjoy observing these fascinating creatures. :turtle:
🦀 Crab & Fish Watch
Look for small crabs scuttling on the railings and fish jumping in the water below the boardwalks. :crab::fish:
🚶♀️ Family-Friendly Strolls
The boardwalks are perfect for a leisurely walk with kids, offering plenty to see and do for a couple of hours. :familywomanwoman_boy:
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Some visitors enjoy fishing from designated spots; locals are often happy to share tips. :fishingpoleand_வத:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful boardwalks and the abundance of wildlife, especially gopher tortoises and birds. It's considered a gem for nature walks and family outings, offering a peaceful escape with plenty to observe. Some note the lack of shade and the presence of dead trees as minor drawbacks.
"An absolute beautiful boardwalk with jumping fish everywhere and cute little crabs scuttling along the railings we only saw footprints of raccoons sadly didn’t get to see them and the locals walking were very polite and one was so sweet to let our kids watch him fish and help a little an absolute gem of a place for a summer walk!"
Florence Rose
"This is a great place to take a nature walk with the family. As someone with kids, there are some great things to see, especially the sand tortoises. These are beautiful creatures and to see them in their natural habitat is great. I highly recommend letting the kids blow off some steam and let the parents take in the views here. There is plenty to do here to blow off steam for two hours plus!"
Zachary Walz
"We decided to stop and check this park out today. There is a picnic shelter with bathrooms by the parking lot.
We strolled all along the elevated boardwalk which is about 1/2 mile long. The opposite end came out right behind the Flagler Beach Public Library. There is also a nice park in that area.
It was a very pleasant walk, however, there is no shade so it can be hot!
Part way down the initial part of the boardwalk, there is an opening on each side leading to another trail. We’ll have to explore that another day!"
Chris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located in Flagler Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with a dedicated parking lot. Many visitors arrive as part of a broader Flagler Beach exploration.
Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors. It's conveniently located near the picnic shelter and bathrooms.
The boardwalk extends to the Flagler Beach Public Library, offering an alternative access point and a nice park area nearby.
The preserve is situated near Flagler Beach, a well-known coastal town in Florida. It's a great addition to a Flagler Beach itinerary.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. Driving is the most convenient way to access Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve is free. It's a public park open for everyone to enjoy.
The preserve is generally open from dawn to dusk, allowing ample time for exploration during daylight hours.
There is no admission fee for walking the boardwalks or exploring the preserve. It's a completely free nature experience.
While there aren't typically scheduled guided tours, local eco-tour operators like Ripple Effect Ecotours may offer excursions in the area.
Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails and boardwalks to protect the natural habitat. Respect wildlife and leave no trace.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary trails are elevated boardwalks that wind through mangrove marshes and coastal uplands, offering excellent views and access to nature.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with many visitors reporting sightings of cardinals and other coastal birds.
You can expect to see abundant gopher tortoises, various bird species, and small crabs along the boardwalks. Raccoon footprints have also been noted.
Yes, there is a picnic shelter with bathrooms located near the parking lot, making it convenient for families.
Most visitors spend about two hours exploring the boardwalks and enjoying the scenery, but you can easily spend longer if you take your time.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalks offer great vantage points for capturing the mangrove ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal scenery. The golden hour light can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, the boardwalks allow you to get relatively close to wildlife like gopher tortoises and birds without disturbing them, making for excellent photo opportunities.
A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the preserve.
Focus on the gopher tortoises, diverse bird species, intricate mangrove roots, and the reflections in the water during calm periods.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks and preserves to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the tortoises, kids can enjoy spotting crabs on the boardwalk railings and various birds in the mangrove trees. The preserve offers a great opportunity for children to learn about coastal ecosystems and wildlife in a hands-on way. With picnic facilities and restrooms available, it's easy to spend a few hours here, allowing kids to burn off energy while parents enjoy the natural beauty.
🚶♀️ Nature Walk Enthusiasts
While the boardwalks are the main attraction, the preserve also hints at other trails for future exploration. The relatively low crowd levels, especially during off-peak hours, make it ideal for quiet contemplation and photography. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as the open boardwalks can get warm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Boardwalks
As you stroll along the boardwalks, keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that call this preserve home. The interconnectedness of the mangrove roots and the tidal waters creates a vibrant ecosystem. The boardwalks are strategically placed to offer optimal viewing points for wildlife and scenic vistas. Some sections of the boardwalk lead to other areas, such as the Flagler Beach Public Library, providing a sense of connection to the surrounding community.
While the boardwalks are a major draw, remember that they offer limited shade. It's crucial to prepare for the Florida sun, especially during warmer months. The experience is best enjoyed during cooler parts of the day, allowing for a more comfortable and extended exploration of the preserve's natural beauty.
Wildlife Encounters: A Gopher Tortoise Haven
Beyond the tortoises, the preserve is a haven for birdwatchers. Many visitors report seeing a variety of bird species, including cardinals, which are a common sight. The mangrove areas and coastal uplands provide essential habitats for numerous avian species, making it a prime location for bird identification and observation. The sounds of birdsong often accompany a walk through the preserve.
Don't forget to look for smaller inhabitants like crabs scuttling along the boardwalk railings and various marine life in the shallow waters below. While sightings aren't guaranteed, the preserve offers a good chance to observe the intricate web of life that thrives in this coastal environment. Remember to observe all wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding them.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit