Check out some offerings around the Calusa Blueway these days.

These suggestions come from my colleague Belinda Clemons, who has run kayaking programs from all points of the county and is now down at the beach parks.

Shoreline Guided Paddling Trips Along the Great Calusa Blueway:
Kayak With Your Canine at Dog Beach
If you and your pooch are experienced, well mannered kayakers, plan to join Lee County Parks & Recreation for an outing Rover won’t forget on the Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Four-pawed and two-legged participants will meet at the kayak launch across from Dog Beach on Estero Boulevard just south of Lover’s Key. No dogs over 100 pounds are permitted and only one dog per kayak please!
Trip Dates and Times:
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 10am - noon
Wednesday, December 16, 2009 10am - noon
Cost is $40 per person and includes all the necessary human gear and boats. Dogs’ participation is free, but canine companions must supply their own life vest and wear them. All Dogs must have current vaccinations.
Must pre-register 48 hours in advance at www.leeparks.org or by calling (239) 533-7440. For more information on this trip call Mary Beth at (239) 229-0559.

Bunche Beach Eco Paddle
Paddle along the shoreline of the Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail, through mangroves and creeks. Explore the wide variety of wildlife and vegetation this beautiful area has to offer. Tour lasts approximately 2 hours. The next trip of the season is Thursday, November 5th from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Cost for this trip is $40 per person and you must pre-register at www.leeparks.org or by phone at (239) 533-7440. Please register 48 hours in advance to assure minimum numbers are met. Check the web site for more dates and times!

Bowditch Point Park Eco Paddle
Paddle San Carlos Bay, Hurricane Bay and Pelican Bay in search of Dolphin, Manatee and a wide variety of birds as you tour the Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. This trip last approximately 3 hours. The next trip of the season is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3rd from 9 am till noon. The cost for this trip is $40 per person and you must pre-register at www.leeparks.org or by phone at (239) 533-7440. Be sure to register 48 hours in advance to make sure minimum trip numbers are met. Check the web site for more dates and times!

Stretching, Yoga, Tia Chi and more….
Bonita Beach Park
Tai Chi Stretch
Learn to experience meditation in motion. Gentle, slow rhythmic movements that will aid balance and help maintain flexibility. Tai Chi's calming effect can also help lower blood pressure and improve respiration. Classes will include Yang Style Tai Chi, Chi Gong, and gentle exercise to enhance flowing movement and deep breathing along with the rooted balance characteristics of Tai Chi. Next full session begins November 16th and runs through December 14th, However, classes are currently running so come on out and see if this program if for you, a drop in fee of $10 per class makes it fun to give it a try! Classes meet every Monday and Thursday from 8 to 8:55 am. The cost for this program is $64 per session or a drop in fee of $10 per class. To register for this program go online to www.leeparks.org or call (239) 533-7440.

Bowditch Point Park
Stretch and Tone Class
Join the group for a gentle wake up call for the mind and body that incorporates a total body stretch, toning, and relaxation to revitalize and invigorate at Bowditch Point Park one of the most beautiful settings on Fort Myers Beach. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a towel, mat and bottle water. Program begins November 4th and meets every Wednesday and Friday morning from 8 to 8:55 am. Cost is $50 per month or a $10 per class drop in fee. Pre-register at www.leeparks.org for this fun and exciting new program!

Lynn Hall Park
Laughter Yoga
Come on out and join this fun group for a laughing, good time at Lynn Hall Park. Students will stretch and unwind with yoga moves and laughter techniques at this beautiful beach front park. Bring a towel and bottled water to this FREE program (with paid parking). Class is held Friday mornings from 8 to 8:45 am at the Lynn Hall Park next to the playground, Ft. Myers Beach. To learn more about Laughter Yoga go on-line to www.laughteryoga.org or call (239) 677-7017.
For more information on any shoreline program or activity call (239) 463-3764.

Need more help? Call Belinda at Bonita Beach Park: (239) 463-3764 or 229-7356. Or drop her an e-mail at Bclemons@leegov.com