Exploring.
Northwest Florida Beaches offers endless ways for everyone to explore.
Take a ghost tour
Step into Apalachicola’s haunted past with Apalach Ghost Tours, where chilling tales, local legends, and centuries-old history come to life on an unforgettable evening adventure in Franklin County.
Gear up!
Before your next Gulf County adventure, stop at Bluewater Outriggers, your go-to shop for everything outdoors. From fishing and kayaking to camping and beach days, find the gear, apparel and local know-how you need to make the most of the great outdoors.
Learn to surf
Surfing in the Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola offers uncrowded, beginner-friendly beach breaks along pristine white-sand shores. Come and give it a try!
Peek at a reef
The Joe Patti Memorial Reef is a unique, approachable dive site ideal for divers of all levels. The 175-foot barge’s distinctive underwater artwork and abundant marine life offer a one-of-a-kind glimpse into all things Pensacola including taking a seat at the "Flora-Bama bar” underwater!
Outfitters you can count on
Opportunities to explore nature, art, and culture are endless in Northwest Florida Beaches, and local experts are standing by to assist with anything you need.
Good to Know
EXPLORE
Northwest Florida Beaches is a blend of natural beauty complemented by historical sites and charming coastal towns. From nature lovers and history buffs to beachgoers and food enthusiasts this collection of coastal communities is full of surprises from dawn until after the sun sets.
Here’s what you should know:
Historical Sites
Small Town Charm
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Grayton Beach: A charming, laid-back beach town in the 30A area, Grayton Beach has a bohemian vibe with colorful cottages, art galleries, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Apalachicola: A historic fishing town along the Apalachicola River, this area is famous for its oysters. It offers antique shops, art galleries, and a glimpse of Old Florida with plenty of Southern charm.
- Fort Walton Beach: A family-friendly town with lots of outdoor activities, including water sports, fishing, and a quieter vibe compared to Destin.
Cultural and Culinary Highlights
- Seafood: Being on the Gulf Coast, the seafood here is a must-try. Pensacola, Destin, and the surrounding towns offer fresh catches, including oysters, shrimp, and fish.
- Gulf Coast Cuisine: The food is a fusion of Southern, Creole, and Gulf Coast influences. Look for local dishes like shrimp and grits, crawfish étouffée, and seafood gumbo.
- Local Breweries and Distilleries: The region has a growing craft beer scene, with local breweries like Grayton Beer Company and Pensacola Bay Brewery, as well as distilleries offering local spirits.
Festivals and Events
- Pensacola Seafood Festival (September): A major local event celebrating the area’s rich fishing heritage, with seafood vendors, live music, and arts.
- 30A Songwriters Festival (January): An annual event showcasing music and talent from around the country.
- Destin Fishing Rodeo (October): This event brings fishermen from around the country to compete in a month-long fishing tournament.
Driving Tips
- The region’s coastal highways like U.S. 98 and State Road 30A offer beautiful scenic drives and easy access to explore for a daytrip.
- Be mindful of wildlife crossing roads, particularly near beaches and parks.
- Traffic can increase over the summer months so be mindful to check in advance if you have a reservation.
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