If you are looking for a unique and thrilling beach experience in Florida, then the Emerald Coast is the perfect destination. The Emerald Coast is the stretch of Florida coastline that runs from Pensacola to Panama City Beach. The name is not just a marketing ploy – its pristine beaches truly are emerald green in color!
In this article, we focus on two of the top destinations in the Emerald Coast: Pensacola and Gulf Shores.
Pensacola: A Maritime Paradise
Founded in 1559 by the Spanish, Pensacola has a rich history and maritime heritage. It is the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle and boasts of miles of sugar-white beaches and emerald-green waters. Here are some of the top attractions in Pensacola:
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach offers miles of stunning beaches backed by dunes, and an array of water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, scuba diving, surfing, and fishing. Not only that, but the beach also has a lively bar and nightlife scene, where visitors can experience the local seafood – especially the gulf oysters!
Naval Aviation Museum
Considered one of the best aviation museums in the world, the Naval Aviation Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in aviation history. The museum has almost 150 restored aircraft that showcase the history of naval aviation, making it a perfect destination for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Fort Pickens
Fort Pickens is a historic military fort built-in 1834. It was part of the defense system that protected the coastline from enemy attacks. Today, visitors can take a tour of the fort, where they can learn about the history and the life of the soldiers stationed there.
Gulf Shores: An Idyllic Seaside Town
Gulf Shores is a small, charming seaside town in Alabama, just across the state line from Florida. Gulf Shores is famous for its beautiful beaches and down-to-earth Southern hospitality. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Gulf Shores:
Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park covers thousands of acres of protected land and more than 2 miles of beachfront property. The park has a range of activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Visitors can also see the Gulf State Park Pier, which is the largest pier on the Gulf of Mexico.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour means “safe harbor” in French, and that is precisely what this wildlife refuge provides for a variety of creatures in the Gulf of Mexico. With around 7,000 acres of protected land and over six miles of beaches accessible by foot, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge provides the perfect escape for those wishing to explore seclusion and nature.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, often called the “Little Zoo That Could,” is a must-visit for animal lovers. The zoo is home to more than 300 species, including exotic animals like sloths, tigers, and kangaroos. The zoo actively participates in breeding programs to help preserve endangered species.
Final Thoughts
The Emerald Coast has something for everyone, from hiking through wildlife reserves to exploring historic military forts – all surrounded by the emerald green waters and sugar-white sands that make the region so special. Pensacola and Gulf Shores are two destinations that should be on everyone’s radar when planning a trip to the Emerald Coast. The southern hospitality, beautiful beaches and local seafood make Pensacola and Gulf Shores ideal destinations for families and travelers alike.