Malecón del Río | Barranquilla

Information

Landmark: Malecón del Río
City: Barranquilla
Country: Colombia
Continent: South America

Malecón del Río, Barranquilla, Colombia, South America

The Secret Woods Nature Center is a 56-acre preserve located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, dedicated to the preservation and education of South Florida's native ecosystems.

Visual Characteristics

The preserve features a mix of hardwood hammock, mangrove forest, and pine flatwoods. The canopy is dense in the hammock areas, with mature live oaks and cypress trees. The mangrove sections are characterized by dense prop roots and brackish water channels. Pine flatwoods exhibit an open canopy with saw palmettos and wiregrass.

Location & Access Logistics

The nature center is situated at 2310 West Prospect Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309. It is approximately 5 kilometers west of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Access is via West Prospect Road, which connects to I-95 and Florida's Turnpike. Parking is available on-site in a designated lot. Public transportation options include Broward County Transit bus route 1, with a stop approximately 1 kilometer from the entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The land was acquired by the Broward County Parks and Recreation Division in the late 1970s. It was established as a nature center to protect the remaining natural habitats within the urbanizing landscape of South Florida. Ecologically, it represents a cross-section of pre-development South Florida environments.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the 1.5-mile loop trail through the various ecosystems. The trail includes elevated boardwalks over wetland areas. Birdwatching is a primary activity, with over 200 species recorded. Educational programs and nature walks are offered on a scheduled basis. A butterfly garden is accessible near the main building.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main nature center building. Shaded areas are present along the boardwalks and at designated picnic spots. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the preserve. No food vendors are located within the nature center; however, convenience stores and restaurants are accessible within a 2-kilometer radius.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography, particularly for wildlife, is early morning or late afternoon when light is softer. The optimal months for visiting are typically October through May, avoiding the peak heat and humidity of summer. High tide can enhance the visibility of mangrove ecosystems.

Facts & Legends

The preserve contains remnants of a historic citrus grove, dating back to the early 20th century, which predates its establishment as a nature center. A specific section of the hardwood hammock is known for its unusually large live oak specimens.