Balancing Act

Pirates of every shape, size and color descend on St. Petersburg's Vinoy Park every November for the Florida Pirate Festival. This event showcases various forms of interactive theater that celebrate the legendary Caribbean pirate tradition. The park becomes overrun with all things pirate, but also manages to include music, rides, comedy, cannons, storytelling, artisan crafts, nighttime fire shows and great food as well as a plethora of pirates!

The injuries sustained by various birds in the area are seen as just temporary by the caring professionals at the Suncoast Bird Sanctuary. This prominent avian hospital rehabilitates thousands of feathered creatures who need a little extra care. Creatures from birds to raptors are treated and then released, but several of the injured specimens make their permanent home here. The sanctuary has gotten lots of attention for breeding Eastern brown pelicans in captivity. As many as 500 "patients" can occupy the facility at one time. When you visit this attraction, you can see an impressive variety of winged creatures that include herons, egrets, cormorants, seagulls and more.

Nature often offers us several unforgettable scenarios that we tend to miss. But Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island are are both off the coast from the city of Dunedin, Florida and offer a superb getaway for relaxing on the beach. And, you can even take a bigger plunge on its shores as the area is quite popular for weddings on its beaches. The nearby Honeymoon Pavilion offers an excellent menu for your post-ceremony reception. See why so many couples have exchanged their vows here and all agree that life is a beach!