Paddle (or Lounge) the Day Away at Wekiva Island

For the naturalist in each of us, there’s nothing like relaxing next to a slow-flowing, lily-pad-laden river, surrounded by lush palmettos. If that sounds good, Wekiva Island is your place — a nature lover’s hot spot where the laid-back vibe of Old Florida still reigns. Word spread fast about this rustic retreat, which has become so popular that capacity (250 guests) can be reached as early as 10 a.m.

People from 8 to 80 years old come out to toss the football, play volleyball or lounge in the sun and dip in the river’s 72-degree, spring-fed water. Renting a riverside cabana for the day is perfect for groups; find the handy power outlets and turn on some tunes, and fire up the provided grills for some lunch. The Tooting Otter also cooks up burgers and dogs on weekends, and provides refreshments (including beer and wine for adults). Service to the cabanas is fast and frequent.

The Wekiva River is the real star, sending canoeists, kayakers and paddle boarders downstream to view alligators and other wildlife. When returning to the island, nothing soothes sore paddling arms like a cold one from the Tooting Otter.