Beach mornings & bike ride afternoons — Gulf Islands National Seashore

Here you will find some of the most stunning beaches along the Gulf, known for powdery white quartz sand, crystal-clear emerald waters, and unspoiled natural beauty. Stretching across parts of Florida and Mississippi, these protected beaches offer a peaceful alternative to more commercialized coastal areas. Gentle surf and shallow waters make them ideal for swimming, wading, and relaxing. Popular spots like Johnson Beach and Langdon Beach offer amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. Visitors enjoy activities such as sunbathing, shelling, wildlife watching, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and surf fishing for species like pompano and redfish.

Gulf Islands National Seashore offers a variety of biking experiences across its diverse coastal landscapes. From paved trails to scenic roadways, cyclists can enjoy routes suitable for all skill levels. Explore paved bike lanes and trails in areas like Fort Pickens, where a 4-mile lane leads to Battery Langdon and a longer 15.3-mile loop connects beaches and historic sites. The J. Earle Bowden Way provides a 7-mile coastal ride between Pensacola and Navarre Beach, while the Naval Live Oaks area features multi-use paved and dirt trails under historic oak canopies. At Johnson Beach in Perdido Key, riders can enjoy a peaceful 5-mile road and a short, car-free path with Gulf views. E-bikes are allowed (under 750 watts), but some areas may require wide tires due to sand or mud. It’s an ideal destination for casual riders and nature lovers alike.