I think today’s post title may be my strangest one yet, but it got your attention, right? After all, who doesn’t love vintage trailers? As for the alligators, I’m guessing they’re not your favorite.
These photos were taken while we were in St. Augustine. We’ve since moved on to Hilton Head, and by the time you read this we will be hitching our post in Ashville.
Our camp site in St. Augustine was more rustic and basic than most, but very nicely situated and convenient to downtown. They happened to have four ‘vintage’ trailers (reproductions actually) at the park which they rent out and they were adorable! They would be perfect for a small group of friends or family to use since they wisely placed them all in a circle, surrounding a firepit.
Now that I’ve shared the ‘Beauty’, how about the ‘Beast’?
The weather while in St. Augustine in March isn’t typically super warm, so we took some time to visit their Alligator Farm attraction, which is apparently the largest in the country. This next shot was taken through glass, looking up at two alligators, one of whom is ‘Maximo’, one of the largest in captivity.
If I’m not mistaken, this guy may be a crocodile. We learned they have slightly pointy snouts and one tooth on each side that is ‘up’.
Feeding time at the zoo…
I love animals, but alligators, crocodiles and snakes? Ummmm…nope.
Now this cute little wood duck is another story :).
In other news…
You guys! I have so much to tell you, but there is no wi-fi here, so it will have to wait. For now, just know we LOVE Hilton Head! I’ve always thought HH would be similar to Myrtle Beach, but perhaps not as commercial and a bit more upscale. Well, it is definitely not commercial at all and in spite of it being a resort town, it doesn’t have that touristy vibe. No tattoo parlors or bail bondsman here ;). It’s a relaxing, charming southern town and I highly recommend you visit if possible. Don’t forget to bring your bikes (or rent) and spend the $8 to get into Sea Pines, where you can bike for miles on dedicated bike/walking trails under beautiful live oaks and drool over the gorgeous homes. Take a short walk off the trail to one of the paths that lead to the beach and you’ll find beautiful, white sandy beaches that are devoid of people. Paradise!
When in HH on ‘the island’, we started our bike ride in Sea Pines and worked our way to Harbor Town, where we were treated to live music by Lou Rawls’ incarnate, did some window shopping and had a delicious brunch of buttermilk pancakes and sausage. Just what I needed (rolling eyes). In spite of biking a LOT, I’ve beefed up like a blowfish, (but enjoying every minute).
Our site near Hilton Head is lakeside, by far one of the best we’ve ever had, with the possible exception of the one in Bar Harbor. We rented a canoe on-site and worked our way up the marshes to nearby Jasper State Park. Overall a lovely, relaxing day, and despite alligators being present, I only had to hit one with my paddle. ๐
I’ll wait until we get home in a couple of weeks and give you a more in-depth synopsis of our time away, complete with recommendations of places to go and things to see. And I’ve got some pretty homes to show you I think you’ll love. I know I do!
And how have YOU all been? Have the Spring blooms shown their pretty faces yet?
Nana Diana says
I am so glad you are having fun, Doreen. We spent a week on HH a few years ago and loved the area. There was a Dell Webb community there that we looked at but decided that is not for us. Love those vintage trailers- How fun is that! You have certainly had some wonderful times this winter. xo Diana
Emily McGriff says
Sounds like a wonderful trip and I’m happy to hear you enjoyed Hilton Head. I love the vintage trailers but I do not care for gators or snakes. While you’ve been enjoying the south I hope you enjoyed some beautiful spring weather. Spring came early here. Enjoy your final weeks of your trip………..
Marilyn @ Pink Paper Cottage says
It all sounds wonderful, and dreamy, and mysterious and (did I say?) wonderful? HH sounds like a fairytale land to visit. Too bad it’s so far away from Oregon! Glad you only had to slap ONE alligator! that place you’re rowing looks a little dicey to me! I’m excited to see the photos of all the homes you’ve taken. I’m a house nut and love them all.. but of course do have a few preferences… like lavender cottages, white picket fences, little white cottages with colorful shutters and doors….. on and on and on. Those faux vintage trailers are darling… any travel trailer I could call my own would be darling! Hope you continue having a great time! Hugs.. Marilyn
Doreen says
Luv St Augustine and did experience very chilly temps while there several years ago. Those trailers are totally sweet and would be a great (short term) rental idea!!!! At the moment we are still in South Texas/Rio Grande Valley (at least for another month!) and am really liking the warmth. The fresh appreciation of Spring blooms is sorely missed, though, and it’s something I never really thought about ’til we started this winter sojourn. The sight of those pastel/bright flowers breaking through wet, early Spring warmed earth cannot truly be fully appreciated without living through the chilly days that precede their emergence. Look forward to future posts on your exploits!!!!
Karen says
Love those vintage trailers! Sounds like you are having a great time. Alligators and crocodiles do not look cuddly ! xo Karen
Rita C at Panoply says
Glad you’re having a great time, Doreen. That first photo of the alligator, with its reflection, made me think it was an octopus! Better get used to the gators if you like HH – lots of them there, and more and more coming up into the residential areas in recent years. HH is where a lot of WV residents own 2nd homes and vacation. It was even more laid back in remote 10-20 years ago, and has gotten more developed.
Kris @ Junk Chic Cottage says
So glad you are having fun Doreen. Such a wonderful adventure. Love those vintage trailers you can rent. So cute.
Happy Weekend.
Kris
AnnMarie says
Alligators and crocodiles give me the creeps because I know how they kill their prey! I always thought of Hilton Head as a rich tourist’s paradise that I could never get near. Nice to hear it is not touristy. Love those vintage trailers! The last picture is gorgeous….so serene.
Cecilia says
no, no, no…nope. I couldn’t live where the alligators are so numerous. Scary things. ๐
What a wonderful wintertime you’ve had…lots of fun and recreation! Spring has been very early here – no complaints other than a little fear Summer will come roaring in early as well. Please no. It’s long enough already. I do love all the flowers that burst out in all their glory and the mild perfect days. Soaking up as much as I can before the 100 degree heat chases me back in.
Looking forward to hearing more!
hugs,
Cecilia
Mary-the boondocks blog says
Doreen what scary looking alligators. The one with the long snout and the teeth… yuk! I’m glad to hear you’re having a great time. And I think it’s not possible to diet or even lose weight when you’re vacationing. Just enjoy yourself and know that I’min the same boat, blowfish wise! Have a wonderful time and keep those alligators away.
tammy j says
holy crap!
I mean holy moly!
why did you bother to wear a life jacket? you wouldn’t have time to drown you know.
you would have been eaten.
i’m loving your trip! can’t wait to see Ashville!!! that’s a place I know I could live.
well. given that I’ve never even been there… what am I basing it on? LOLOL.
and
those little vintage trailers… so adorable! until an alligator joined you at the fire pit.
nope. no thanks.
Linda says
Hi Doreen,
I’m a nope on the alligators and crocodiles too! But in one photo I have to say the lone alligator looks as though he is smiling in his sleep….he’s kind of cute!???
Looks like an amazing adventure and I can tell you are having the time of your life. Enjoy! Take care!!!
Linda
Brenda Pruitt says
Looks like you guys are having fun in the sun! Those gators are scary looking. I always wondered what it would be like to live full-time in a vintage trailer.
Brenda
Kim says
Cute trailer, I love gators, well, from a distance anyway and although I have never been to HH, my sister owns a condo there and has been going for years. She actually just spent a week there with her four kids and their kids….which is why I have never been there. I like quiet vacations! ; )
Red Rose Alley says
Yikes, those alligators and crocodiles! These are great pics, Doreen! That one with the looooong nose is a peculiar looking fellowy, isn’t he? The duck picture is pretty awesome too. Wow, it sounds like you’re having a grand time! Enjoy and be safe, my friend.
~Sheri
Jane says
I feel the way you do about crocs and alligators. Creepy, ugly and dangerous. Wouldn’t want to come near one.
Jane x
Poppy says
Cute trailers, scary gators! How courageous of you to take that little trip into gator territory – you are fearless!
Looking forward to seeing pics of Asheville!
Happy Sunday!
xx
Poppy
Vickie says
I’ve been on edge kayaking on remote rivers in northern MN, but paddling down gator infested waters- eek! Biking through the areas you’re visiting sounds wonderful and it sounds like you’re enjoying every minute. Have fun!
Kelly Dotson says
I have been to that alligator farm several times with my family. It’s really great to take boys to. I have two boys that loved it when they were little. I’m like you and feel a bit intimidated by it all! Those vintage trailers are cute. I’ve never been to St. Augustine in March. It’s always blazing hot in the summer when we go. I’ve never been to Hilton Head before. It sounds nice.
Vicky Hunt says
Those vintage campers are too cute! How fun and I bet they are way cheaper than a hotel! I need to remember this. I love that you and your hubby travel around a bit and stay busy while you are snowbirding. You stay busy and truly enjoy your time. I think that is awesome! I have been to the alligator farm once…several years ago. I prefer seeing them in their natural habitat…on the banks of the Suwannee River. It is so cool to see them sunning on the bank or on a log. They are really neat creatures, but they keep me out of dark water. LOL! Not my son…he isn;t bothered by them at all. They truly aren’t much of a threat to humans but I don’t take chances. Are you back home yet or still galavanting your way back? Enjoy my friend!
Hugs, Vicky
Karen says
I have never seen the vintage trailers, they would be so much fun to spend a long weekend camping in! I am with you Doreen…gators give me the a very uneasy feeling.
Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow says
I like the duck better than the gators too ๐ You are having so much fun! ๐
Dewena says
Several of my children have been to HH so I’d heard how nice it is and this time of year must be some of the best.
But, you know how much I love Asheville! Lived there 3 years as a child, visited there every summer while a child to aunts and uncles. Am always sad when leaving the NC mountains. I wonder if the dogwoods will be in bloom when you’re there? It’s heavenly at that time!
Carrie@northwoods scrapbook says
I love living through you Lady! You truly have all the fun! No Spring flowers here yet….but finally some sunshine at the end of the day and almost all of the snow gone – so that’s something. ๐
C’mon you gotta love the gators and crocs! They’re so….”prehistoric”. Hope you continue to have safe travels and lots of extra fun for me!!!
xoxo
Amy says
Not a fan of the ‘gators, nope! We went on an alligator tour in South Carolina, and it was fascinating, but terrifying, since they were out there in the open – including on the property of where we were staying. I’d have thought the same about Hilton Head. Now you’ve got me adding it on my list of places to go. Sounds like you are having an amazing time! Can’t wait to see and hear all about your vacay. No spring blooms here yet, but it could be soon!
rue says
Awww…. I think the gators and crocs are cute ๐
One day I hope to get down there. I should have done it when I lived in Virginia, darn it!
Glad you’re still having fun and don’t get bit ๐
xo,
rue
Jemma says
I am so glad that you are having such a fabulous time and I am loving these posts of yours too.
These reptiles are sort of creepy, but also interesting.
Hilton Head Island is a fabulous place for sure. We lived in the Carolinas way back when and were able to visit HH a couple of times.
Are you moving there??? I feel as though some change is in the air…
xx
Jemma
handmade by amalia says
I’m erring on the predictable side – love the campers, leave the wildlife. But a strange post is always welcome.
Amalia
xo
susan says
All your stops sound like so much fun. Except the alligators. It was very brave of you to
go canoeing in gater infested waters!
Can’t wait to hear all the stories and see all the pictures.
Happy trails! xo
Benita says
That cute little duck is the perfect appetizer for those gators….ewwww, they just give me the heebee jeebies! I hate gators, crocs and snakes. My boys live in Jacksonville and they send me pics of snakes and gators…enough to last me a lifetime! St. Augustine is gorgeous…I do love it there. So much history and a great winery! Love those vintage campers…our dream is to have one to go tooling around in one day! Hope you are behaving!! ๐ Love and hugs!!
Amy | Stow and TellU says
Somehow, I’m still more afraid of spiders, but ask me again when I canoe down that river at Jasper State Park. Wow, that looks so serene. Although you might not have been to relaxed with all those gators, lol. Putting this place on my bucket list. Beautiful photos and how fun are those vintage campers!!
Karen (Back Road Journal) says
The vintage trailers are cute, the alligators creepyโฆespecially the one with the long skinny snout. It looks prehistoric, did anyone talk about what he was or where he came from?
Cindy says
Hi Doreen, never been to HH. Been to Myrtle Beach and for tourists that’s for sure. Not a Gator or snake fan either. Safe ride coming home. The weather has been gorgeous of late.
Cindy