We are so lucky to live here along Scenic Hwy 30a and have the opportunity to view these 30a Coastal Dunes lakes every day. These rare coastal dune lakes are natural habits for migrating birds, unique plant, alligators and other wildlife. The only other areas of the country that share these natural wonders are found in Oregon and South Carolina. These dune lakes are truly special.
The lakes intermittent connection to the Gulf of Mexico make each lake unique. Some are fresh, some brackish and some salty depending on water levels and when the lakes “breakthrough” and drain excess water in to the Gulf of Mexico. These coastal dune lakes have been recognized by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory as “extremely rare and indispensable to the coastal wetland system”. Not only do these beautiful lakes store and filter water, they also provide natural habitat for a variety of unique plants and animals.
So the next time you are traveling along Scenic Highway 30A enjoying the beauty of these coastal dune lakes, know that they are quite famous and are the result of some of mother nature’s best work and the protective efforts of a lot of people as well !!
