Explore Florida’s Emerald Coast: Hidden Treasures Await
Florida’s Emerald Coast comprises some of the Sunshine State’s best-kept secrets. Distinctly separate from Orlando’s theme parks or Miami’s vibrant nightlife, this region boasts quiet stretches of sandy beaches lining calm, turquoise waters. Hidden state parks shelter shorebirds counted by the flock, and local fishers gather over a few cold beers, sharing tales of the one that got away.
Dubbed the ‘Emerald Coast’ by a local junior high school student in 1983, the thin stretch of coastline along the Florida Panhandle between Pensacola and Panama City has long been favored by motoring families and spring breakers. However, these visitors usually stick to the main sights off Florida State Road 30A. Here we highlight the Sunshine State’s little-known destinations.
Secret Beaches
Florida’s breezy Gulf Coast beaches are among the quickest ways to escape sweltering weather and enjoy fresh, salty air. While popular beaches are plentiful near main resort areas like Panama City Beach and Destin, a few hidden treasures are worth seeking out.
Not far from Panama City Beach, Shell Island is cherished by locals and informed visitors alike. This uninhabited island separates St Andrews Bay from the Gulf and features pristine sand without any usual amenities – no concessions, restrooms, or trash cans. Visitors are encouraged to pack out what they bring in while wandering along sugar-sand beaches and through mangroves. Binoculars are a must to spot bottlenose dolphins, often seen off this slice of paradise.
Farther afield, Grayton Beach State Park exemplifies the region’s precious moniker. It offers secluded beaches with azure waters, biking and hiking trails, and two rare coastal dune lakes perfect for kayakers. Thirty onsite cabins serve as ideal quiet getaways.
Under-Visited State Parks
Away from Florida’s theme parks, the Emerald Coast provides a more natural alternative to central Florida’s manicured entertainment. Archaeological evidence suggests the area surrounding Topsail Hill Preserve State Park (floridastateparks.org/Topsail-Hill) was once used by Native Americans for hunting and fishing, and little has changed since. This park features a stunning array of ecosystems, including cypress domes, marshes, pine flatwoods, scrub, and wet prairies.
Just north of the pastel-colored planned community of Seaside, Eden Gardens State Park offers a glimpse of Florida from the 19th century. Set on 163 acres of historic land, the park’s centerpiece is the restored Wesley House, a two-story mansion encircled by columned verandas. The Spanish moss-shaded park features ornamental gardens, hiking trails, and boat access to Tucker Bayou.
Local Haunts and Hangouts
As night descends or a thunderstorm rumbles, head indoors to a warm and friendly spot for a bite to eat. With a cast of affable bartenders and budget-friendly food and drinks, Destin’s Red Door Saloon (thereddoorsaloon.com/destin-florida) is the local hangout where patrons are welcomed to stay until last call. Pizzas and bratwursts are available to complement the experience.
On Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach’s main commercial artery, you’ll find more airbrushed t-shirts and cheap sunglasses than local offerings, but there are a few gems in the chaos. Serving up a taste of the Big Easy, Red Rae’s Restaurant (redraespcb.weebly.com) is just steps away from the beach. Its menu features Cajun specialties like blackened shrimp po’boys and spicy jambalaya, making it a favorite with both locals and visitors.
Undersea Adventures
With nine shipwrecks just off the coast of Panama City Beach, this section of the Gulf of Mexico has earned the title of the ‘Wreck Capital of the South.’ Diving along the Emerald Coast promises a unique exploration opportunity. Fortunately, several dive charters make navigating this area easier than ever.
Panama City’s latest wreck dive, the Red Sea, was a 125ft tugboat intentionally sunk in 2009. Now resting just 40ft below the surface, various marine life have already taken up residence. The Emerald Coast also houses submerged bridge spans, including sections of the Hathaway Bridge, built in 1929. These structures are now home to vibrant species such as angelfish, grouper, and barracuda.
For those preferring to stay above water while catching a glimpse of underwater life, visit Man in the Sea Museum, which showcases the variety of gear and underwater habitats that allow exploration of the ocean’s mysteries.
Festivals
The Florida Panhandle’s identity is intrinsically linked to the area’s history and landscapes, peppered with tales of pirates, vagrants, and artists who sought refuge along the unexplored, palmetto-lined coast.
The coves and bays of the Emerald Coast provided perfect hiding spots for pirates targeting unsuspecting merchant vessels. One such pirate, William Augustus Bowles, operated a flotilla around the Florida Panhandle and is celebrated during the Billy Bowlegs Festival (billybowlegsfestival.com) in Fort Walton Beach. Each year, pirate reenactors invade the city for three days filled with peg-legged merriment, music, food, and local arts and crafts.
Every January, musicians and songwriters from around the globe converge in intimate venues a short stroll from idyllic beaches for the 30A Songwriters Festival (30asongwritersfestival.com). Featuring 175 acts, this festival provides songwriters a platform to share their stories and melodies, often in venues as small as 75 seats or expansive outdoor stages accommodating thousands of fans.
