Hernando Beach is located in Florida's Nature Coast, 980,000 acres that stretch across nine counties. This region is as rich in history, from Native American sites to antebellum houses, as it is wildlife and natural beauty. The best way to experience the latter is through the Nature Coast State Trail, a 31-plus mile trail that's perfect for hikers and bikers. The trail is open to the public and free of charge year-round, from 8 a.m. to sundown each day.

Florida's Nature Coast

This region of Florida's coastline offers unprecedented opportunities for deep sea fishing. Anglers can expect to find a wide variety of fish in these clear blue waters, including snook, pompano, grouper, kingfish, mackerel, mangrove snapper, American red snapper, keeper and sea bass. But the largest prize of all is tarpon, which averages 100 lbs. in weight and will give even seasoned anglers a good fight after hooking. A number of local charter companies offer visiting anglers guided access to the best spots.

Always Fishing
Gulf Grouper
Rock Boss

Wildlife enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Weekiwachee Preserve, a sprawling 6,000 acres of natural forests and 430 acres of man-made lakes completed in 1999. An interpretive trail takes hikers and bikers through six miles of the preserve, which protects the natural habitats of many birds and reptiles, Florida black bears, tortoises, gophers, and bald eagles. Hikers should allot two hours and bicyclists one hour to complete the trail.

Weekiwachee Preserve