 Welcome to Exploring Northeast Florida's special places. Today I visited Castaway Island Preserve. To get here, take Beach Boulevard to San Pablo Road and head north, drive until you see the park on the right. Located on the inter-coastal waterway, this preserve is most ideal for walking and wildlife viewing. There is plenty of parking at this preserve and no admission fee. Once you leave the car, it's time to walk on the island trail. Castaway Island is also a wonderful place to bring your family, because of its many interactive features. The trail offers visitors a chance to see incredible wildlife and plant species, including birds, turtles, butterflies, and flowers. As I walked along the boardwalk, I felt the coastal air hitting my face. I noticed trees swaying in the air above me and birds flying all around me. Castaway Island is a blissful escape from everyday life. A preserve located in the heart of Jacksonville, loved by all those who visited it. It's important to preserve Northeast Florida, because it's one of the few resources that's for the benefit of everyone. You don't need to be rich to get into a park. There's no exclusive membership required to kayak on a creek. And you don't need anyone's permission to enjoy a walk through the woods. I can't think of any other resource that gives so much to the community and asks for so little in return. Walking on the boardwalk is a great way to spend any day outside. There are picnic tables and grills at the front of the park and an educational center near the parking lot. Castaway Island is a breathtaking preserve located next to Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, and the University of North Florida. Go out and explore it for yourself. We'll see you on the trail next time.