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Though more common in spring and fall, manatees (sea cows) frequent the refuge year-round. Visitors can see these herbivorous animals up close in Banana River or from the viewing platform at Haulover Canal.

The best places to spot wildlife here are linked by an easy access drive. Follow the seven-mile, one-way loop to see a variety of waterfowl, wading birds, and raptors.

If you have a Florida State fishing permit, you can cast your line on the Indian River, Banana River, and Mosquito Lagoon. Red drum, spotted sea trout, and snook are the most common catches.

Boating or canoeing is still the best way to get close to the wildlife. In season, the waterways are filled with wading birds in migratory pit stops and manatees in the depths.

For those with no bird-watching experience, the reserve offers birding tours for beginners. A well-trained park volunteer teaches visitors to identify many of the different types of birds in the refuge, such as this snowy egret.

There are four hiking trails on offer. Most are quite wet but none are too strenuous. They range from a quarter of a mile to five miles.

So large are the numbers of birds involved in the seasonal migration that hunting for ducks and coot is allowed from November to January. Permits and safety cards are required, and all expeditions must return by early afternoon.

In addition to a 20-minute video of the refuge, the center has wildlife exhibits and educational displays providing a good introduction to the Island. The ponds behind the center are favorite spots for alligators.

Throughout the year, the refuge plays host to migrating animals. The birds return in May, and during June and July turtles lay their eggs on the beaches. In September waterfowl are plentiful in the rivers.

Visitors to the refuge spend more time on land than in water, but Playalinda Beach provides access, parking, and other facilities for swimmers. However, beware of alligators on the road to the beach.