Lovers Key State Park has released its December program schedule which includes what public events are happening, how much they cost, how to sign up, and descriptions of the events.
12/5 Friday
Beach and Estuary Walk
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Mid-Beach
Free with paid park entry fee
Instructor:Â Mitch (ranger)
Join a park ranger for a leisurely walk over the estuary and along the beach to discover the natural treasures of the Lovers Key shoreline. Learn about seashells, crustaceans, starfish, and other creatures that can be found in our waters. Participants should be prepared to spend time in the water. Registration is required, please visit https://loverskey.eventbrite.com
12/12 Friday
Shell Walk
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Mid-Beach
Free with park entry fee
Instructor:Â Mitch (Ranger)
Join a park ranger for a shelling trip along the Lovers Key shoreline. Learn the names of the seashells you find on your walk, fun facts about the creatures who craft them, and the shelling regulations that help protect these iconic Florida treasures. Registration is required, please visit https://loverskey.eventbrite.com
12/14 Sunday
Yoga by the Sea
9:00 am – 10:00 am
Mid-Beach
Fee:Â $30
Instructors:Â Shannon
Start your Sunday morning with Yoga by the Sea — a gentle beachside practice blending meditation and mindful flow. Experience the healing power of self-forgiveness through movement and breath, surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida’s gulf coast. This heart-opening class is designed to leave you lighter, calmer, and more connected to yourself. Registration is required, HERE.
12/16 Tuesday
Marvelous Manatees
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Community Room (Welcome and Discovery Center)
Fee:Â Free with park entry fee
Instructors:Â Sarah (Ranger)
Join a park ranger for an interesting and informative lecture on our local, loveable manatees. Learn what these magnificent mammals are all about, and how you can help protect them. Please note, live manatees are not included in this lecture. Registration is required HERE.
12/17 Wednesday
Fishing Clinic
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Community Room (Welcome and Discovery Center)
Free with paid park entry
Instructors:Â Bob and Valerie (volunteers)
Join park naturalists to learn more about fishing in Southwest Florida. You’ll discuss a variety of tackle and fresh bait rigs, discover the best places to drop a line at the park, and learn the rules and regulations for fishing in Southwest Florida. Registration is required HERE.
12/19 Friday
Walk on the Wild Side
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Black Island Trail Head (Parking Lot #2)
Free with park entry fee
Instructor:Â Mitch (ranger)
Join a park ranger for a guided hike along our Black Island Trail. Learn about the fascinating vegetation and wildlife that reside in our maritime hammock ecosystem, and enjoy a little local history along the way. Closed-toe shoes, bug spray, and water bottles are highly recommended. Registration is required HERE.
12/20 Saturday
Junior Ranger
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Community Room (Welcome and Discovery Center)
Fee:Â Free with park entry fee
Instructors:Â Mitch (Ranger)
Join a park ranger for a Junior Ranger educational program and accompanying activity to explore the four components of the Junior Ranger program: natural resources, cultural resources, recreation, and service. Participants will be eligible for Junior Ranger passport stamps with the successful completion of each component.
Registration is required HERE.
12/26 Friday
Shorebird Stroll
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Mid-Beach
Fee:Â Free with park entry fee
Instructor:Â Mitch (Ranger)
Join a park ranger on a guided walk down the shoreline and discover some of the birds that call the beach here at Lovers Key home. Learn helpful tips about how to identify these challenging birds while learning their diet, behavioral and nesting habits. Registration is required, please visit https://loverskey.eventbrite.com
12/27 Saturday
Beach Cleanup
9:00 am – 10:00 am
Location:Â Mid-Beach Bridge (Beach Side)
Fee:Â Free
Instructor:Â Ranger/Volunteer Led
Join a park ranger for a beach cleanup at Mid-Beach. Enjoy a lovely hour on the beach as you do your part to keep our state park (and planet!) clean. Participants will record the types of trash they collect, and the findings will help inform park messaging. Gloves, trash bags, pickers, pencils, and data sheets will be provided. Registration is required, please visit https://loverskey.eventbrite.com