Stories

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the resilient communities of Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee have come together in a remarkable display of strength and unity. While the hurricanes brought flooding and damages to many communities, they also ignited a spirit of determination in our residents to rebuild and revitalize their beloved hometowns.

Mesmerizing mermaids: lost and Found

During Hurricane Helene, a local resident captured the now viral video of a mermaid statue floating down the Weeki Wachee River. In fact, two mermaid statues, both are part of The Mermaid Tale Trail, were swept away to the storm surge from the hurricane. In true Weeki Wachee fashion, local residents came together to search for the missing mermaids, sharing the viral video and ‘Missing Mermaid’ posters online.

Thanks to our amazing residents, we are thrilled to report that both mermaids have been found safe and sound! Just like the resilient spirit of our community, the event was a beautiful reminder that even in the toughest of storms, we can always find our way back with a little help from each other. Thank you to Steve Daniel for finding “The Rebel,” painted by Autumn Proctor, and to Max Harding and John Prout for bringing Mermaid “Nova,” painted by Robin Stewart, back home!

After being swept away by Hurricane Helene, ‘The Rebel’ was found and is now located at The Silver Dolphin Restaurant

A journey of recovery

Immediately after the flood waters receded, families and neighbors rolled up their sleeves to begin work on cleaning up their homes and businesses. Many local restaurants and community buildings were quick to reopen their doors, giving free meals and bringing a sense of normalcy back to the community as they faced the journey ahead.

Thanks to their efforts, Florida’s Adventure Coast is ready to welcome you back with open arms! Warm hospitality, natural beauty and exciting outdoor activities make this destination the perfect getaway for those looking to unwind and reconnect. Enjoy the cozy charm of a small town with nature all around, and major cities like Tampa and Orlando just a daytrip away.

Marina Rose Cruises

Nature’s wonders

Visit the iconic Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, where you can marvel at live mermaid shows, enjoy swimming in crystal-clear springs and take a leisurely riverboat cruise. There are lots of wildlife sighting opportunities, including manatees that travel upriver in the winter months to stay warm. Go paddling with local kayak rentals or join an ecotour with Get Up and Go Kayaking for a chance to see wildlife and stunning sunsets on the water.

Paddling with Get Up And Go Kayaking – Weeki Wachee

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

From hiking and cycling to boating and fishing, adventure awaits at every turn for outdoor enthusiasts. The Withlacoochee State Forest offers beautiful scenic hiking, as well as mountain biking and horseback riding trails. Have a blast out on the Gulf of Mexico with a local Airboat Tour, or cast a line with one of our local fishing charters. For an easy-going adventure, set out with Marina Rose Cruises for dinner, sunsets and dolphin sightings.

Mountain biking in the Withlacoochee State Forest

cULINARY DELIGHTS

After a day of exploration, indulge in the local culinary scene. Waterfront restaurants in Hernando Beach like the Silver Dolphin, Lazy Lizard, the Drunken Mullet are open and serving delicious dishes with a scenic view. After surviving eight feet of storm surge, the Aripeka Stone Crab Company is open once again with fresh seafood products including stone crab claws, fish dips and much more. For a sweet treat, visit Tipacanoe Creamery for homemade ice cream, milkshakes and more.

The Aripeka Stone Crab Company

fAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN

Weeki Wachee and Brooksville both make the perfect destination for families looking to create lasting memories. Beyond Weeki Wachee Springs, families have more exciting activities like ATV riding at Croom Motorcycle Park or exploring the Nature Coast Botanical Gardens. In Hernando Beach, Da Freaky Tiki offers family-friendly sunset cruises on the Gulf of Mexico. History buffs can explore the past at one of our museums, like the famously haunted May-Stringer House Museum, the 1885 Train Depot and Chinsegut Hill Historic Site.

ATV Riding at Croom Motorcycle Park

sUPPOT LOCAL BUSINESSES

Your visit directly impacts the community. Stay at charming bed-and-breakfasts, dine at family-owned restaurants, and shop at local boutiques. Each purchase helps to restore the vibrancy of this amazing destination. To support the restaurants, attractions, and places to stay affected by the storm as they reopen, visit https://floridasadventurecoast.com/hurricane-helene-recovery/