Welcome to the Jersey Gypsy column, where our resident travel reporter, Valentina, roams the globe in pursuit of stories.
Travel has always been more than just a hobby for me – it’s my way of connecting with the world, one adventure at a time. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to visit some truly beautiful places, but Florida’s Mirada Lagoon felt like a completely different kind of experience.
I first heard about this incredible spot from a fellow traveler during a late-night chat in a cozy beachside café. “You have to see Mirada Lagoon,” she said with a knowing smile. “You won’t believe it until you see it – it’s like nothing else in Florida” – her words stuck with me, and before I knew it, I was packing my bags to see what made this place so special.
Here’s everything I discovered.
First Impressions When Visiting the Mirada Lagoon
Stepping into Mirada Lagoon, I was immediately struck by its expansive 15-acre stretch of crystal-clear waters – the largest man-made lagoon in the United States.
Surrounded by beautiful greenery and palm trees, this place has a special tropical feel. For a moment, I could’ve sworn I’d stepped into a Hawaiian paradise or some exotic island getaway. If I didn’t know, it would be pretty hard to guess that I was visiting Florida.
What struck me most was how effortlessly the lagoon catered to everyone. Families were laughing and splashing in the shallow areas, couples lounged on beach chairs with drinks in hand, and adventurous types paddled across the open water. Whether you want to kick back and relax or prefer something active, this place has it all.
The Beaches of Mirada Lagoon
The beaches at Mirada Lagoon are absolutely gorgeous. The sand is that perfect powdery white that you just want to wiggle your toes in, and the water is so clear you can see right to the bottom.
Of course, no lagoon trip is complete without some water action. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or just splashing around, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. If you’re looking for more breathtaking water adventures, check out my guide to exploring the Great Barrier Reef.
The inflatable park is basically a giant floating playground – slides, climbing walls, the whole shebang. I saw both kids and adults having an absolute blast. I gave paddleboarding a shot, which turned into a comedy routine – I learned the hard way that balance isn’t exactly my strong suit.
My time here reminded me of my trip to Australia, where the natural beauty was so breathtaking that at times it felt like another world.
What Else Does Mirada Lagoon Have to Offer?
I have to say that Mirada Lagoon isn’t just about the beach and the water. While I spent most of my time near the beach and my hotel, I did venture out enough to discover some highlights that are definitely worth mentioning.
- Eats and Drinks: If you are a foodie, you are in luck. The lagoon has a variety of options, from casual beachfront cafés to more upscale spots. I had a fantastic lunch at the Reef Café, which not only served up delicious meals but also offered a killer view of the lagoon.
- Event Space: Planning a wedding or a big celebration in Florida? Mirada Lagoon has you covered. I didn’t bother to check them out in detail, but I did see a beach club there that could probably accommodate hundreds of guests. All I can say is that the event spaces are picture-perfect.
- The One Downside: If I had to point out one drawback, it’s that some areas of the lagoon can get a bit crowded, especially on weekends. While there’s plenty of space to spread out, the popularity of the lagoon means that peak times might not feel as relaxing as I’d hoped.
My Day at the Lagoon in San Antonio, Florida
I spent a whole day exploring Mirada Lagoon, and it was genuinely a great time. I started with a walk along the beach, just enjoying the sun and nature. Then came the paddleboarding adventure, followed by a refreshing dip in the lagoon.
The afternoon was all about relaxing in a beach chair, sipping something cold, and people-watching.
Then, as the sun started to go down, the lagoon became even more beautiful. The sunset painted the sky in amazing colors, which reflected perfectly on the water. Of course, I had to have some wine as I watched the sunset. Florida really makes me want to be that cliché tourist, I guess.
Visiting Mirada Lagoon in Florida – FAQs
How Deep is the Mirada Lagoon?
Mirada Lagoon reaches a maximum depth of 15 feet, with shallower areas designated for various recreational activities.
What Can I Bring into Mirada Lagoon?
You can bring towels, sunscreen, one pool noodle per person, personal life jackets, and small water toys (no toy guns or weapon-like items).
Outside food, coolers, inflatable floats, personal chairs, large umbrellas, and large speakers are not allowed. Sealed water bottles, baby food, and small portable speakers are permitted. For specific needs, contact Lagoon management.
Is Mirada Lagoon Man-Made?
Yes, Mirada Lagoon is a man-made lagoon. It spans 15 acres and is the largest of its kind in the United States, designed to offer a tropical beach-like experience with crystal-clear waters and various activities.
Who Built the Mirada Lagoon?
Mirada Lagoon was built by MetroLagoons, a company specializing in creating man-made lagoons using Crystal Lagoons technology. This innovative system provides clean, eco-friendly, and beautiful aquatic spaces for recreation and relaxation.
