Curry Hammock State Park

The 260-acre Curry Hammock State Park (56200 Overseas Hwy., 305/289-2690, www.floridastateparks.org/curryhammock [1], 8 a.m.–sunset daily, $3.50) opens up to both the bay and the ocean; the latter side is preferred by day-trippers, who flock to the small beach area, picnic and grilling area, and campground. The bay side is a bit rougher, with thatches of mangrove, hardwood hammocks, and kayak trails thick with flora and fauna (look up for tropical birds, look down for lolling manatees). There’s also a 1.5-mile walking trail.

The park is home to the annual Florida Keys Birding & Wildlife Festival (www.keysbirdingfest.org [2]), which takes place every September.