Fort Lauderdale Bonnet House Eco Paddle Experience

Coconut Cove was once a mangrove and buttonwood swamp until the late 1920's, when the U.S. Army Corp. of engineers was granted permission to deposit the fill while dredging the Intracoastal. The fill caused the swamp to perish, which prompted Mr. Bartlett to plant rows of Coconut Palms where the current Bonnet House parking lot exists. The property is a blend of native and exotic flora including a desert garden, Orchid House, Shell Museum, Fruit Groves, Freshwater Slough, Wild Coffee, Silver Palms, Coontie Plants shaded by Gumbo Limbo, Seagrapes, Sabal Palms, and Paradise Trees to name just a few splendors in addition to the 1920 Bonnet House Museum with it's incredible architecture built around a Fountain Garden and displaying art, sculptures, and collectibles from all over the world. It is truly the last of Old Florida in the present day and a celebration of the protected history and the legacy of Frederic Clay and Evelyn Barlett's vision and talent.

Meeting Point

900 N Birch Rd

900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA

Turn from Sunrise Blvd to the end of the street. Make a right to the end where you will see the 2nd tall gate. These will be closed before 10am. Your Guide will meet you here at the gate.

What's included:

• Complimentary Photos
• Historical Art Museum Gallery & Studio Access
• Seashell Museum and Orchid House
• Paddle Board or Kayak
• Paddle
• Bonnet House Self Guided Grounds & Gardens Access
• Life Jacket
• Guided Paddle Tour

Not included:

• Water (Bring something for staying Hydration)
• Waterproof Bag and Waterproof Phone Case: Available for separate rental or purchase ($5 - $28)

What to expect:

900 N Birch Rd

Fort Lauderdale Adventures is proud to offer this exploration of the Bonnet House western border for the first time ever. Celebrating over 100 years, we are able to exhibit these saltwater wetlands that support a fragile ecosystem vital to south Florida's ever endangered habitat. The jungle of mangrove trees produces a thick network of intertwined roots to prevent soil erosion and provide shelter and food for fish and wildlife. Manatee, land and sea fiddler crabs, and a variety of saltwater fish find a secure home in this ecosystem. The Cove is the perfect home for our Great Blue Heron, Green Herons, Egrett's, Ibis, and the rare Great White Heron that can only be found in this part of the world.
The center of the property features the Bartlett's protected boathouse which was a private entrance to the property. Great for Celebrations!
After your Paddle, enjoy a self-guided tour of the Bonnet House and Gardens. We recommend planning for at least 90 minutes:
• Start at the Welcome Center to get interactive maps
• For Audio use your Smartphone for the free mobile-friendly website bonnethouse.stqry.app/1

Paddle starts at 8:30am
Grounds open at 11 and closes at 3pm & 4pm on weekends