Is this hike suitable for children?

Yes, the hike is family-friendly and recommended for children aged 5 and older.

Are pets allowed on the trail?

Pets are generally not permitted to protect sensitive habitats and wildlife.

Do I need to bring my own water?

Yes, bringing water is advised as there are no water stations along the trail.

Is there an entrance fee for the hike?

The hike is offered at no cost thanks to community support.

Can I walk the trail without a guide?

The program is guided to maximize educational value and ensure conservation protocols are followed.

What wildlife might I see on the hike?

Common sightings include Florida box turtles, various birds, and occasionally small reptiles.

Juno Dunes Hike Adventure with Loggerhead Marinelife Center | Hiking

Situated along Florida’s Atlantic coast in Juno Beach, the Juno Dunes Natural Area offers an immersive glimpse into one of the region’s most delicate ecosystems—the coastal hammock. This protected area, managed in partnership with Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management and Loggerhead Marinelife Center, presents an accessible outdoor option for nature lovers seeking an engaging, educational hike.

The Juno Dunes Natural Area Hike is a guided 45 to 60-minute journey led by an experienced educator from Loggerhead Marinelife Center. The hike unfolds through the coastal hammock habitat, a unique vegetation zone where subtropical hardwood trees shield a diverse understory of native plants. Throughout the walk, guides illuminate the vital ecological roles these species play, from stabilizing dunes to providing habitat for native wildlife such as box turtles and songbirds.

Though relatively short, the trail offers a concentrated experience rich in ecological learning and wildlife encounters. Visitors can expect to identify local flora, including live oaks, cocoplum, and saw palmetto, as well as spot native animals adapted to this coastal environment. The hike culminates in an inspiring vista overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where the expansive seascape enhances the sense of place and the importance of coastal conservation.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s stewardship of this space underscores their commitment to protecting marine and coastal habitats, making this hike not just a walk in nature, but a thoughtful dive into conservation practices. The center’s role as both education hub and conservation leader amplifies the hike's value, positioning it as a must-do for families, educators, and outdoor enthusiasts visiting the area.

For those traveling to South Florida, the Juno Dunes hike offers a balanced adventure—combining easy terrain with a meaningful introduction to one of Florida’s less-visited natural gems. It’s a standout opportunity to engage with local ecosystems through expert interpretation, making it a uniquely rewarding outdoor experience along Florida’s coast.

About Loggerhead Marinelife Center

Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Florida, operates a sea turtle hospital, rescue, and rehabilitation facility focused on sea turtle conservation. The center offers a range of visitor experiences including private and public guided tours, early-access tours of the outdoor hospital, audio self-guided tours, evening guided tours, and interactive Ocean Discovery Shows led by teaching scientists. Visitors can purchase One Day Passes to access exhibits and live sea turtles, join Guided Turtle Walks to learn about nesting, attend Hatchling Release events, or book the WILD in the Palm Beaches half-day wildlife tour.

Each program provides educational interpretation about rescue, rehabilitation, and release processes, with guides and staff sharing patient stories and conservation context. The outdoor sea turtle hospital allows guests to observe current patients and learn about veterinary care and recovery milestones during guided visits. Discovery Shows and hands-on presentations highlight local sea turtles, sharks, and coral reefs to connect audiences with coastal ecosystems.

Tours are available in multiple formats to suit different schedules and interests, from self-guided audio tours to intimate private guided experiences. Evening programs add the opportunity to observe nocturnal turtle behaviors like nesting and hatchling release. Every visit supports conservation efforts through admission and donations. Loggerhead Marinelife Center combines public education, animal care, and coastal conservation outreach to create meaningful marine wildlife experiences for visitors of all ages. Programs accommodate families, school groups, and individual visitors, offering accessible learning opportunities, scheduled tours, special events, and community outreach initiatives that support regional conservation education and engagement programs.