Marathon, Florida

We left North Fort Myers this morning and drove to Marathon, Florida...part of the Keys.We went to a bonfire and New Year's eve party last night at the resort and had a great time. We've made lots of new friends and look forward to coming back at some point to visit everyone that we met.

The weather was sunny and warm today...perfect for our drive. We stopped at a visitor center, that was part of Big Cypress Park to stretch and take a quick break before driving the rest of the way. The canal next to the visitor center was just full of gators. They were soaking up the sun on any rock they could get themselves draped over.

Having never driven to the Keys, I was worried that it was a boring drive like I-75 is in north Florida. It's not....in fact it's a great drive. You drive past a number of Indian Villages, with their thatched roof huts, through Big Cypress Park and past gorgeous waterways. It's a beautiful drive and very enjoyable, even though in many places, it's just a one lane road going each way.

The water is just beautiful here. A pretty turquoise color, glistening in the sun.

We saw this house, along the shore,  and it looks like one that may have been on HGTV's extreme homes show. With it's rounded shape, I bet it stands up well to any hurricanes that come through.

We arrived at our campground...Jolly Roger Campground at 1:45 and got set up. We have a back in site so we uploaded the bike, before backing in, so we'll have to ride on our excursions. The park is right on the ocean and the rigs along the seawall have an amazing view. There is a small grassy area, overlooking the ocean that is called Tiki Island and that is for tent campers. Wow, is that a sweet spot to be. You have a front and center spot to watch every night's sunset.

 

A View along the seawall....

He's waiting for his supper, near the fish cleaning station....

Linda got in to see how warm the water was...she said it was a little chilly. We walked down to catch the sunset, over the water and it didn't disappoint. Tomorrow we're headed to Key West for the day....