Fort DeSoto

This landmark is a piece of heaven. Just the drive through Tierra Verde is gorgeous, although condos and developments now mark its beautiful path. The area is big...so plan on at least a day to really get a grasp of your surroundings. I only had a few hours, so I spent my time on the north beach. I had hoped for some sharks teeth, but I was not disappointed when I came home without fossils. The shells are beautiful, if you get there at the right "tide", and if you know what you are doing. About an hour before low tide, head out into the water, about waist deep, and carefully nudge your toes into the sand. That's where you will find your shell treasures. On shore, there are lots of bits and pieces of broken shells and sandollars, but in the tide, you may find a gem of a shell. Please make SURE,before taking shell, that it is not inhabited. Check out the find from a young gal who was wading in my path.

And a view from the remarkable beach and shoreline. This place is just a treasure, and a great place for families.

Have cash to pay a few small tolls in route, and on the weekends, to purchase concessions if desired. I saw lots of families with coolers. Enjoy....and make a day of it. Bike rentals, fishing, hiking, kayak rentals...you name it. Don't miss this special spot.