Glide through winding waterways and spot dolphins, osprey, and maybe even a gator while kayaking the wild heart of the Guana Tolomato Matanzas (GTM) Reserve. Just south of Ponte Vedra Beach, the Guana Reserve offers an unforgettable paddle adventure through one of Northeast Florida’s most diverse and protected estuarine ecosystems. Whether navigating mangrove tunnels or exploring open marsh, kayaking the GTM Reserve is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Experience why the Guana Reserve is a top destination for eco-touring, birdwatching, and coastal exploration.
The Guana River State Park is a one-hour drive from our oceanfront hotel in Flagler Beach. The 20-mile drive along the A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway will take you from a retro surf town through historic and ecological layers, ending at the highly protected, biodiverse Guana Reserve. Your journey will take you through a rich cross-section of Florida’s coast with some absolutely breathtaking views.
Before heading out on your kayaking adventure at the Guana Reserve, start by booking a stay at one of the top hotels in Flagler Beach. The Island Cottage Inn is a boutique oceanfront hotel that blends the cozy charm of a bed and breakfast with the style and comforts of a modern small hotel. Located in the laid-back surf town of Flagler Beach, it’s a perfect spot for couples looking for a romantic coastal escape. Book your stay today!
The Guana Reserve: A Natural Treasure
The Guana Reserve, also known as the GTM Reserve, is a coastal treasure spanning over 75,000 acres of protected habitat within the NOAA National Estuarine Research Reserve system. This area is one of Florida’s richest ecological destinations, offering unforgettable encounters with Florida’s natural wonders. With kayak and SUP rentals available nearby, beginners will appreciate the easy access and calm waters. Kayaking is one of the best ways to appreciate the diversity of the ecosystems Guana River State Park has to offer.
Top Things to Do at the Guana Reserve:
- Be sure to explore the Exhibit Hall at the GTM Reserve, a must-visit stop that brings the region’s incredible biodiversity to life. Inside, you’ll find interactive displays highlighting the Guana Reserve’s unique ecosystems, from estuaries and marshes to coastal dunes. Get a close-up look at local wildlife through live aquaria and terraria, where native fish, reptiles, and amphibians provide an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
- The Guana Reserve is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an incredible array of wildlife, including at least 44 species of mammals, 350 bird species, 41 types of reptiles, 21 amphibian species, 303 fish species, and more than 580 varieties of native plants.
- Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard (SUP), or personal flotation device (PFD) from North Guana Outpost—an ideal launch point for beginners, thanks to its calm, accessible waters. If you prefer exploring with an expert, the outpost offers guided excursions that provide extra support and insight into the area’s unique ecosystems.
- Set out on one of the scenic trails at the Guana Reserve and immerse yourself in a landscape of coastal dunes, salt marshes, and shady maritime forests. Each path offers a chance to experience the rich biodiversity of the GTM Reserve up close, whether you’re spotting wildlife, listening to birdsong, or simply enjoying the peaceful rhythm of nature.
- If you want to birdwatch, make sure to arrive early for the best chance to see spoonbills, ospreys, and migrating species. More than 3,000 migratory ducks, American coots, common gallinules, and pied-billed grebes winter at Guana Lake! The Guana Lake was formed by damming a portion of the Guana River.
- For a more sustainable and rewarding experience at the Guana Reserve, pack a reusable water bottle, choose reef-safe sunscreen free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect the fragile ecosystems you’re exploring. Small choices like these help preserve the GTM Reserve’s natural beauty for future visitors and support the health of its diverse wildlife.
- To make the most of your adventure at the Guana Reserve, it’s a smart idea to reserve your gear and guided tours ahead of time. Booking in advance ensures that kayaks, paddleboards, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are ready and waiting for you, especially during weekends or peak seasons when rentals can go quickly. With everything set before you arrive, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time exploring the waterways, spotting wildlife, and soaking in the natural beauty of the GTM Reserve.
Stay at one of the Best Flagler Beach Hotels
For a romantic oceanfront escape, Island Cottage Inn stands out as one of the most charming boutique hotels in Flagler Beach. With just nine beautifully designed guest rooms, this intimate coastal retreat combines the warmth and hospitality of a bed and breakfast with the style and convenience of a boutique hotel. Located just steps from the sand, the inn features a private walkover to the beach, a peaceful courtyard pool, and amenities designed to elevate every stay, making it a perfect destination for couples seeking a relaxing, memorable getaway.
Each guest room at our beachfront hotel is impeccably appointed to ensure maximum comfort and relaxation. Rooms feature award-winning Helix mattresses with 100% cotton sheets, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, Public Goods bath products, and complimentary high-speed WiFi. Select rooms also offer fireplaces for added ambiance. To further enhance the guest experience, we offer In-Room Gourmet Custom Blend Coffee by Bent Tree Roasters, a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, and grab-and-go beach essentials, including towels, chairs, and umbrellas. Bicycles are also available for guest use, perfect for exploring the laid-back charm of Flagler Beach.
Our goal at the Island Cottage Inn is to offer luxurious yet welcoming surroundings, with a strong focus on comfort, quality, and thoughtful details. Every element, from the fresh, delicious light breakfast to premium in-room amenities, is curated to provide an exceptional guest experience. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, strolling the beach at sunrise, or enjoying the privacy of your elegant room, this boutique hotel delivers a truly elevated coastal retreat. Reserve your room now.
