If you’re seeking a new custom Florida home in Daytona Beach, and are an avid outdoor-recreation enthusiast, you won’t do better than Mosaic.
It’s ICI Homes’ top master-planned community for all ages in this area, and it’s a prime location not only for great neighbors, amenities and activities but also the surrounding natural world.
Wildlife viewing is one of many perks of living here, so read on for more on how Mosaic residents can walk on the “wild” side.
Birding
A rewarding pastime year round, but especially during cool months when Florida’s already prodigious bird population includes migratory species fleeing colder climates.
Thanks to the Tiger Bay State Forest serving as Mosaic’s western boundary, residents can track many birds simply by lounging on their lanais. Hawks, eagles and other raptors are common sights, along with the many varieties of waterfowl frequenting Lake Mosaic and other community ponds.
Another bonus of local birding is its position on the Great Florida Wildlife and Birding Trail. Fifteen of the Trail’s 510 designated wildlife viewing locations are in Volusia County. So grab the binoculars, check the Halifax River Audubon organization’s resources, and get out there!
Manatees
Who doesn’t love these peaceful mammals that frequent waterways statewide? Like many humans, manatees aren’t fond of winter cold, so Mosaic residents can see them firsthand in seasonal trips to nearby Blue Springs State Park.
Located at 2100 West French Avenue in Orange City, Blue Springs is a favorite manatee refuge during cooler weather, and a mere 40-minute drive west from Mosaic. It showcases the largest spring along the St. Johns River and is prime manatee-viewing territory from November through March.
Thanks to clear, 73-degree water, overwintering manatees are easy to spot and photograph. And when it’s not manatee season, Blue Springs State Park features other outdoor-recreational activities such as hiking trails, snorkeling, swimming, and launching personal watercraft.
Marine Science Center — located at 100 Lighthouse Drive at the southern end of Ponce Inlet, this environmental and wildlife rehabilitation facility offers a fun, educational experience. Plus, visitors can explore the circa-1887 Ponce Inlet Lighthouse Museum next door.
The Marine Science Center’s focus is coastal and marine wildlife habitats. Staff and volunteers often rescue and rehab sea turtles, coastal birds and raptors via the onsite Sea Turtle and Bird Hospital. Mosaic residents can glimpse current patients and feed stingrays. There also are live programs with the Center’s resident raptors, plus cool exhibits and a nature trail.
Currently closed to the public for an extensive renovation project, the Marine Science Center is projected to reopen to visitors in June 2025.
Tiger Bay State Forest — as mentioned above, this more than 28,000-acre preserve ensures that Mosaic’s western boundary is one of serene coastal and coastal plain forests.
It’s also open to the public for hiking, equestrian camping and trails, fishing, limited camping and hunting, nature and wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.
Ready for your new Mosaic lifestyle? Talk to ICI Homes here.