Coastal Stewardship

NOAA funded, through Florida Sea Grant, the project “Coastal Stewardship in Taylor County” which focuses on creating capacities in the Steinhatchee community through different activities, that include:

Coastal stewardship vision (worked with Steinhatchee School 2 nd to 5 th grade)
Hosting the results of the coastal stewardship vision on a website and creating signage around Steinhatchee.
Hosting workshops about invasive plant species and native landscaping.
Hosting a two-day Summer Camp for Steinhatchee youth.

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Coastal Stewardship Vision through the eyes of children is refreshing. Their ideas depict many of the local businesses and areas that have a commercial and recreational interest for locals and visitors. Their coastal stewardship vision included:

What people can SEE in Steinhatchee
What people can DO in Steinhatchee
How people can HELP Steinhatchee coastal areas.

Also, the vision lists some local environmental problems and the solutions they see for those problems. It also suggests a series of “good practices” and “behaviors” for the sustainable use and conservation of our coastal natural resources. To read the entire report, please click here for the pdf file.

To learn more about the Florida Sea Grant program,
watch this short, informative video:

Things to See

Being a community with deep roots in the river and the ocean, boating represents an important sector of our economy. Public ramps are available, and local marinas provide a variety of services to residents and visitors. The Marinas play a key role in educating people to be stewards of our coastal areas and marine resources.

Marinas
Sunset
Bridge
Restaurants
The Steinhatchee Falls
Marine Life
Churches
Fishermen/Boats
Ocean
Fiddler Crab Festival
Marshes
River
Manatees
Wildlife
Boat Parades
Fireworks
Artificial Reefs

Things to Do

Steinhatchee offers several options for swimming, allowing visitors to embrace the coastal charm and refreshing waters of this Florida gem. One popular spot for swimming is the Steinhatchee River. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the river’s calm waters, especially in areas with designated swimming spots, like Steinhatchee Falls. The river provides a serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful and natural swimming experience.

Swimming – Steinhatchee offers several options for swimming, allowing visitors to embrace the coastal charm and refreshing waters of this Florida gem. One popular spot for swimming is the Steinhatchee River. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the river’s calm waters, especially in areas with designated swimming spots, like Steinhatchee Falls. The river provides a serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful and natural swimming experience. When swimming in Steinhatchee, it’s essential to consider safety precautions. Pay attention to any posted signs or warnings regarding water conditions and be aware of tides and currents. It’s also advisable to swim in designated areas and be mindful of wildlife such as jellyfish or stingrays that may be present in the water.

Fishing – Fishing is a popular and exciting activity to engage in when visiting Steinhatchee. Here’s why fishing in Steinhatchee is such a great experience: Abundant marine life, Diverse Fishing Options (freshwater or saltwater), Scenic Surrounds, and memorable Experiences.

Boating – Riding a boat in Steinhatchee is a thrilling and popular activity that allows visitors to explore the symbolic waterways and immerse themselves in the coastal beauty of this charming town. Once underway, boatings give you the freedom to navigate and explore the scenic waterways surrounding Steinhatchee. The Steinhatchee River, with its calm and tranquil waters, is perfect for leisurely cruises and sightseeing. You can also venture out into the Gulf of Mexico, where you can experience the thrill of boating and witness breathtaking sunsets. Don’t forget to visit Grassy Island during your adventure!

Walking – Explore the scenic beauty of Steinhatchee by taking a leisurely walk along its picturesque coastline. Enjoy breathtaking views, listen to the soothing sounds of the river, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this coastal paradise. Keep an eye out for unique wildlife and bird species that call this area home as you stroll through the lush nature trails.

Hunting – Steinhatchee offers fantastic hunting opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Grab your gear and venture into the vast wilderness surrounding the area, where you can pursue game such as deer, turkey, and hog. The abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes make Steinhatchee a hunter’s dream. Whether you prefer archery, rifle, or shotgun hunting, the area provides ample space and prime hunting grounds for an unforgettable experience.

Scalloping – Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Steinhatchee Deadman’s Bay and embark on an exciting scalloping adventure. Grab your snorkel and mask and search for these delectable bivalves amidst the seagrass beds. Discover the thrill of catching your own succulent scallops while enjoying the underwater beauty of the Gulf Coast. With its rich scallop populations, Steinhatchee is a premier destination for this exhilarating and rewarding activity during the summer season.

Crab Fishing – Experience the joy of crab fishing in the waters surrounding Steinhatchee. Drop your crab traps and patiently wait as you enjoy the scenic views. Once the traps are pulled up, you’ll have the opportunity to catch blue crabs, stone crabs, and other local species. Bring your fresh catch back to shore for a delicious feast or release them to continue their journey. Crab fishing in Steinhatchee offers a unique and hands-on experience for seafood enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.

Scuba Diving – Immerse yourself in the underwater wonderland of Gulf of Mexico through scuba diving. Explore the artificial reefs, encounter diverse marine life, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Gulf Coast’s aquatic ecosystem. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner looking to get certified, Steinhatchee offers a variety of dive sites suitable for all levels. Dive deep into a world of adventure and encounter the wonders that lie beneath the surface.

Biking – Saddle up and hit the scenic biking trails of Steinhatchee. Pedal your way through the lush landscapes, dappled with sunlight filtering through the dense vegetation. Enjoy the fresh coastal breeze as you cycle alongside the river, marshes, and forests. With various trails catering to different skill levels, biking in Steinhatchee provides an excellent way to explore the area’s natural beauty and experience its coastal charm up close.

Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Glide along the calm waters of Steinhatchee by kayak or paddleboard. Discover hidden coves, meander through the river or marshes and creeks, and observe the diverse wildlife that thrives in these tranquil estuaries. Whether you choose a kayak or a paddleboard, this eco-friendly and peaceful adventure allows you to immerse yourself in the pristine natural surroundings, offering a unique perspective and unforgettable experiences.

Camping – Immerse yourself in a nature-filled getaway by camping in Steinhatchee. Choose from various campgrounds nestled in scenic locations, where you can pitch your tent or park your RV. Fall asleep under a canopy of stars, wake up to the sounds of nature, and spend your days exploring the outdoors. Camping in Steinhatchee offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with the natural wonders surrounding you.

There is just so much to do in Steinhatchee, we can’t possibly list them all! We encourage you to eat local seafood, participate in trash clean ups, explore the river, look for and plant native flowers and trees, and mark you calendars for special events like the Fiddler Crab Festival (always held in February on President’s Day weekend), the Sips and Sunsets Music and Craft Beer Festival (always held the first Saturday in November), or fishing in the locals’ tournaments, Nauti-Girls and the Community Fishing Tournament.