South Florida

South Florida is a diverse destination with plenty to discover for nature lovers, beachgoers, culture seekers, and families.  Originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Tequesta and Calusa, South Florida boasts a unique and ecologically rich environment.  It includes a wide variety of ecosystems, from wetlands and mangroves to coral reefs and tropical hardwood hammocks. The subtropical to tropical climate supports an abundance of plant and animal life not found anywhere else in the continental United States.

While Spanish settlers arrived in Florida in the 1500’s, South Florida remained largely free of European settlements and the population was sparse until Henry Flagler completed the Florida East Coast Railway in 1912.  The ease of travel led to an economic boom as people journeyed to Miami for vacations and retirement.  Many efforts over the years to “drain the swamp” led to canals being dug and redirecting water to dry up massive areas of the Everglades for agricultural use and new communities. 

Today, South Florida is known for its vibrant mix of cultures, natural beauty, and environmental challenges.  On this page we share some of our favorite destinations and resources to allow you to learn more about the history, society, and incomparable climate of this beautiful area of our state.