The GTM Research Reserve, one of 29 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Estuarine Research Reserves, encompasses 74,000 acres of conservation lands and waters from Ponte Vedra to Palm Coast. It is managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Coastal Office. The Reserve was established as a protected area for long-term monitoring, research, education and stewardship programs.

On Saturdays, you can explore ten miles of upland hiking trails and approximately seven miles of beaches on Guided Cultural Hikes or Beach Walks and have fun in Guana Lake at a Family Seining event. You can also explore the River-to-Sea Preserve or the coquina rock beach on guided explorations. If you are a nature lover, GTM Research Reserve offers multiple options for a wedding at Guana Beach, the Environmental Education Center or the Guana Trails! There are also indoor hands-on presentations where you can learn about whales, sea turtles, snakes, birds, butterflies, and other amazing life.