Far from tourist-packed areas like Orlando and Miami lie the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Seashores as far as the eye can see and a slower, more relaxed pace await you on what is known as the Emerald Coast. If you want to explore nature and still have the chance to work on your tan, check out these five awesome places to explore in the Florida panhandle.
1. Gulf Islands National Seashore
Stretching for 160 miles along the Gulf of Mexico in Mississippi and Florida, Gulf Islands National Seashore includes barrier islands, bayous, and maritime forests as well as historic forts. The park offers snorkeling, hiking, fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, and camping.
2. Henderson Beach State Park
Boardwalks take you through the rustic treelines to the white sugar sand beaches at Henderson Beach, where there is plenty of opportunity for swimming and fishing. This beach is pet friendly and has a playground for the kids. Stay for the day or bring your tent for an overnight stay at the campground, where you’ll find water and electrical hookups and hot showers.
3. St. Andrews State Park
A former military reservation with over a mile and a half of beachfront, St. Andrews offers swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Two nature trails give you an up close view of local coastal plants and are excellent birdwatching areas. An RV friendly campground and tent camping are available along with picnic pavilions.
4. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Rent a cabin and stay awhile! Rustic cabin rentals along with tent camping are available here, and sites include picnic tables and grills. There is even a special section for youth groups so if you are looking for a place for your troop or church group, this is it. Fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking are available, as well as birdwatching and nature observation opportunities. The park also has one of the most popular sea turtle nesting sites in the panhandle.
5. Florida Caverns State Park
For a real change of pace, get underground at Florida Caverns State Park. This is the only state park in Florida to offer cave tours. Walk through amazing limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. Fishing, canoeing, and boating are also available courtesy of the nearby Chipola River and Blue Springs. Cave tours are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday and space is limited, so you should call ahead to make sure they have not sold out.
Wrapping up our post on the Florida Panhandle, we thought you might also like Spend an Incredible Day in the Outdoors at Ginnie Springs, Florida!
Featured Image from Leslie Cross/Unsplash
