With preservation efforts strong and limits on development to protect the local animal species, Northwest Florida’s beaches have become some of the most beautiful and pristine. Whether you’re looking to relax and enjoy wildlife or take in the many water adventures, the following are scenic places you’ll want to explore.
Pensacola Beach
Florida has many amazing tourist attractions. Northwest Florida also has endless miles of soft, sandy beaches where you can ease your stresses. While there are a certain areas in Florida where the beaches can get somewhat crowded when in season, the majority in Northwest Florida are treasured finds because of their remoteness and captivating beauty. Situated on Santa Rose Island, Pensacola beach’s old world charm comes through with some amazing local hangouts and prime fishing. Given the name as Best Beach in the East Coast, the protected natural beach of Pensacola makes it ideal to visitors for its kayaking, snorkeling and biking. The 8 mile stretch also boasts historic treasures such as Fort Pickens where history buffs can learn about the areas military significance dating back to the American Revolution. The Pensacola Pier offers a great viewpoint where guests can spot manatees, dolphins, sharks and other marine life.
Seaside, Florida
Set in a quaint resort town in Northwest Florida, Seaside is a unique community on the Gulf of Mexico. With pastel-colored homes and white picket fences, visitors will love the urbanist architecture. You’ll find a diverse selection of seaside vacation rentals where you can enjoy the charm of this one-of-a-kind resort community. 30A’s magnificent beaches are ideal for swimming, surfing, sunning and relaxing. If it’s a night on the town that you’re yearning for, the Seaside Repertory Theater is the premiere spot for live shows and entertainment. Seaside, Florida also boasts a weekly farmer’s market, shops, cafes and art galleries. The weather is also ideal for movies and outdoor concerts underneath a blanket of stars.
Panama City Beach
If you’re looking for a livelier setting for your Northwest Florida getaway, Panama City Beach features 27 miles of turquoise waters and sandy beaches when attracting most tourists to the region. Although it can get especially crowded during Spring Break, it’s still home to two protected nature reserve parks and amazing hiking trails. Guests to the area also find Panama City Beach coastline ideal for scuba diving and fishing. The area also boasts the most amazing location for guests to enjoy the setting sun over the Gulf of Mexico.
Grayton Beach State Park
Situated between Destin and Panama City Beach, Grayton Beach State Park ranks among the best beaches for its cleanliness and scenic beauty. This 2,000 acre state park is the ideal backdrop for water enthusiasts who enjoy sun bathing, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing from the surf. You can end your day at Grayton Beach state park with one of Mother Nature’s best picturesque sunsets. Guests to the area can also enjoy the many winding nature trails perfect for hiking and biking.
Mexico Beach
Known as paradise to nature lovers, Mexico Beach, Florida is host to a variety of bird species that includes osprey, bald eagles and pelicans. If you’re looking for outdoor activities during your trip, guests will enjoy shelling, swimming, diving, parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, boating and fishing. To escape from the daily hustle and bustle of everyday life, the sugary sands of Mexico Beach are ideal for basking in the sun with a good book. Mexico Beach is also known for its many festivities that include the annual Best Blast on the Beach during the fourth of July, Gumbo Cookout and Art and Wine Festival.
St. George Island State Park
Although the area is growing quickly, guests to St. George Island State Park can still enjoy the isolated beauty of the beaches. With over 9 miles of land that has yet to be developed, there are still plenty of things to see and do in spite of the isolated territory. From sea fishing for mackerel, redfish and sea trout to swimming and diving, you’re days with be filled with endless adventure. There are also some amazing dining establishments and watering holes where travelers can come to quench their thirst and hunger.
Northwest Florida beaches have been a popular destination among beachgoers for years past. But thanks to community leaders protecting the area from overdevelopment and to ensure the safety of natural species that occupy the beaches, Northwest Florida beaches have become world-wide treasures that visitors can enjoy far into the future.
