12 Fun Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle (Attractions & Vacation Spots)

311

I grew up vacationing on Florida’s east coast, so it took me way too long to realize how underrated the Panhandle is. The first time I drove that stretch from Pensacola to Panama City Beach, I kept pulling over just to take it all in…powder-white sand, water so clear it looked more Caribbean than Gulf, and beach towns that felt like secrets.

But there’s more to the Panhandle than perfect beaches. You’ve got hidden springs tucked into pine forests, seafood shacks with lines out the door in Apalachicola, and sleepy old towns like DeFuniak Springs that feel frozen in time. Whether you’re looking to paddleboard in Destin, bar-hop in Pensacola, or escape to the wild dunes of Grayton Beach, this corner of Florida packs way more variety than people give it credit for. Here are 12 of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle that are totally worth the detour.

Coolest Attractions in the Florida Panhandle

Planning a trip along Florida’s Gulf Coast? This quick-glance guide highlights the best spots across the Panhandle…hidden springs, vibrant beach towns, historic forts, and more. Click any destination to skip straight to that section in the full post.

• Most Scenic State Park: Grayton Beach State Park
• Prettiest Beach Town: Seaside
• Top Historic Fort: Fort Pickens
• Best Seafood + Small-Town Vibe: Apalachicola
• Top Snorkeling Spot: Navarre Beach Marine Park
• Best Waterfront Activity Hub: Destin Harbor Boardwalk
• Most Peaceful Garden Escape: Eden Gardens State Park
• Top Family Adventure Spot: St. Andrews State Park
• Coolest Natural Spring: Wakulla Springs State Park
• Most Untouched Beachscape: Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Best Hidden Swimming Hole: Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
• Ultimate Beach Playground: Panama City Beach

Here’s what I’d do: mix a few nature spots with classic beach towns, like Apalachicola or Seaside, then unwind with a beach day at Grayton or St. Andrews. There’s so much to uncover in this underrated slice of Florida!

1. Grayton Beach State Park

Grayton Beach State Park is a slice of untouched Florida, where emerald-green waters meet sugar-white sand dunes. Spanning over 2,000 acres, it offers a mix of scenic hiking trails, rare coastal dune lakes, and secluded beaches that make it a must-visit. One of my favorite experiences was kayaking on Western Lake—the stillness of the water and the reflections of towering pines made it feel like a hidden sanctuary.

For outdoor lovers, the park’s trails weave through dense coastal forests, offering glimpses of deer, wading birds, and even the occasional fox. If you prefer a slower pace, the beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters. Sunset here is magical, as the sky turns shades of pink and orange over the dunes. No matter how you spend your time here, Grayton Beach has a way of making you slow down and take it all in.

2. Seaside

Seaside is a walkable town with colorful beach cottages, a lively town square, and one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast. The first time I visited, I rented a bike and quickly realized that’s how most people get around—no traffic, just quiet streets and easy access to the beach.

The town square has independent bookstores, boutique shops, and an open-air amphitheater that hosts concerts and movie nights. Airstream Row is a must for food lovers, with grilled cheese from The Meltdown on 30A and fresh ahi tacos from Barefoot BBQ. The beach is the highlight, with soft white sand and clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming. If you’re up early, sunrise yoga on the sand is a great way to start the day. Between the beach, food, and local events, Seaside always has something to offer.

3. Fort Pickens

Fort Pickens is a historic military site on Santa Rosa Island that offers more than just old brick walls—it’s a place to explore Civil War history, quiet beaches, and coastal trails. Walking through the underground tunnels and cannon-lined walls, it’s easy to picture what life was like for soldiers stationed here in the 1800s.

Beyond the fort, the area is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, with fishing piers, nature trails, and miles of undeveloped beach. I once camped at the nearby Fort Pickens Campground, where wildlife like armadillos and osprey were just steps from my tent. Kayaking in Pensacola Bay is another great way to experience the area, especially near Battery Langdon, an abandoned coastal defense structure. For history buffs and nature lovers alike, Fort Pickens is one of the best places to explore. And not far away, you can enjoy some of Pensacola’s top nightlife spots – a win win.

4. Apalachicola

Apalachicola is known for its fresh oysters, quiet streets, and historic buildings that feel untouched by time. The town sits along the Apalachicola River, and the best way to experience it is by stopping at Hole in the Wall or Up the Creek Raw Bar for freshly shucked oysters. I once ordered a dozen at a waterfront bar, and they had been pulled from the bay just hours earlier.

Beyond food, downtown has art galleries, antique shops, and the 1838 John Gorrie Museum, which honors the inventor of air conditioning. Just outside town, the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve is great for kayaking through salt marshes or hiking in the coastal pine forests. If you want a slow-paced day filled with good food, local history, and nature, Apalachicola is a must-visit in the Southeastern US. It’s one of the most livable places in the FL Panhandle where time seems to move a little slower…in the best way possible.

5. Navarre Beach Marine Park

Looking for one of Florida’s most scenic places? Navarre Beach Marine Park is a quiet spot known for snorkeling, sea turtle conservation, and uncrowded beaches. The park has three artificial reefs, and if you swim just 150 feet from shore, you’ll find schools of tropical fish, rays, and sometimes sea turtles. I snorkeled here once and was surprised by how much marine life was just below the surface.

For those who prefer staying dry, the Sea Turtle Conservation Center offers exhibits on local wildlife and rehabilitation efforts. The park’s walking paths connect to Navarre Beach Pier, the longest in Florida, where you can watch surfers or try fishing for pompano. Kayaking along Santa Rosa Sound is another way to enjoy the area, with calm waters and great sunset views. Navarre Beach Marine Park is one of the best hidden gems in FL for a quiet, nature-focused beach day.

6. Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Destin Harbor Boardwalk is the center of activity in Destin, with fishing charters, watersports, and some of the best seafood in town. I once spent an afternoon watching charter boats unload their catches—huge grouper, snapper, and even a few sharks. If you want to try deep-sea fishing, boats like the Destin Princess run daily trips into the Gulf.

If fishing isn’t your thing, jet ski rentals, dolphin cruises, and sunset sailing tours are all easy to book right from the boardwalk. Food options range from casual spots like Dewey Destin’s Seafood to sit-down restaurants with fresh Gulf shrimp and oysters. In the evening, live music and street performers make the boardwalk even livelier. With so much happening in one place, it’s easy to spend an entire day here without running out of things to do.

7. Eden Gardens State Park

Eden Gardens State Park is a quiet retreat known for its historic mansion and shaded gardens. The highlight is the Wesley House, a restored 1897 estate with antique-filled rooms and wraparound porches. I took a guided tour here, and hearing the stories behind the family heirlooms and hand-carved furniture made it feel like stepping into the past.

Outside, the park’s butterfly gardens, reflecting pond, and towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss create a peaceful atmosphere. The grounds connect to Tucker Bayou, where you can launch a kayak or fish for redfish and flounder. Many visitors bring picnic baskets and set up under the sprawling oaks, enjoying the quiet scenery. Whether you’re drawn by history, nature, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Eden Gardens is one of the most relaxing spots in the Florida Panhandle.

8. St. Andrews State Park

St. Andrews State Park is one of Panama City Beach’s best spots for outdoor activities. The park has pristine beaches, hiking trails, and some of the clearest snorkeling waters in the area. I once swam near the rock jetties and saw schools of tropical fish, crabs, and even a sea turtle.

The Grand Lagoon side of the park is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, with calm waters and dolphins often spotted nearby. If you prefer to stay on land, hiking trails wind through coastal pine forests, where you might see deer, wading birds, or even the occasional alligator. Fishing is another big draw, with anglers catching redfish, Spanish mackerel, and flounder from the piers. A ferry runs to Shell Island, a remote stretch of undeveloped beach with no buildings or crowds. For a mix of adventure and quiet nature, St. Andrews is a great place to explore.

9. Wakulla Springs State Park

Wakulla Springs is home to one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, with water that stays a cool 69°F year-round. A glass-bottom boat tour is the best way to see below the surface—I took one and spotted schools of fish, submerged caverns, and even an alligator sunbathing nearby.

The park’s swimming area features a diving platform, where locals and visitors take turns jumping into the crystal-clear water. If you enjoy wildlife, manatees, turtles, and wading birds are frequently seen along the riverbanks. For hikers, the Wakulla Springs Trail winds through cypress forests, offering a shady escape. The historic Wakulla Springs Lodge, built in the 1930s, has a famous soda fountain and serves Southern-style meals. Whether you come for the wildlife, the history, or a refreshing swim, Wakulla Springs is an unforgettable spot.

10. Gulf Islands National Seashore

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a protected stretch of undeveloped beaches, coastal forests, and historic forts. The first time I visited, I was struck by how quiet it was…no hotels, just miles of soft, white sand and calm Gulf waters. As such, it’s one of the coolest free things to do in Florida for a dose of nature.

There are plenty of ways to explore, from kayaking in the Santa Rosa Sound to hiking trails through dunes and salt marshes. Fort Pickens, part of the seashore, is a 19th-century military fort with cannons, tunnels, and views over Pensacola Bay. Snorkeling near Langdon Beach reveals tropical fish and rays close to shore. Because the area is protected, wildlife is everywhere—pelicans diving for fish, sea turtles nesting, and dolphins swimming offshore. For anyone looking to experience Florida’s Gulf Coast in its most natural state, Gulf Islands National Seashore is a must-see.

11. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park

Ponce de Leon Springs State Park is a small but beautiful spring-fed swimming hole. The 68°F water stays crystal-clear all year, making it a refreshing escape on a hot day. I still remember the shock of my first dive—the cold hits fast, but after a few minutes, it’s the perfect way to cool off.

The park has short hiking trails winding through cypress and oak forests, where you might see turtles, woodpeckers, or even an otter. For fishing, the spring run leads to the Choctawhatchee River, a great place to catch bass and catfish. There are picnic tables and shaded areas, making it easy to spend a lazy afternoon here. Since it’s smaller than other Florida springs, weekday mornings are the best time to visit if you want to beat the crowds. For a quick and peaceful nature break, this park is a hidden gem.

12. Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in the Florida Panhandle, known for 27 miles of soft, white sand and bright turquoise water. The beach is great for swimming, surfing, and jet skiing, but my favorite experience was a dolphin tour—I saw a pod swimming right next to our boat.

Pier Park is the center of activity, with restaurants, shops, and a giant Ferris wheel overlooking the Gulf. For a more nature-focused experience, St. Andrews State Park is just a short drive away, offering hiking trails, snorkeling, and access to Shell Island. If you’re into fishing, the Russell-Fields Pier is a prime spot for catching mackerel and pompano. In the evening, the beachfront comes alive with bonfires, live music, and fresh seafood at places like Schooners. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing beach day, Panama City Beach has something for everyone.

FAQs about Fun Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle

Looking for more on what to see and do in the Florida Panhandle? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help you plan your trip.

What’s the best time to visit the Florida Panhandle?

The ideal time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. For beachgoers, late spring to early fall offers warm waters and sunny skies. However, if you’re into bird-watching or prefer less crowded attractions, winter can be quite charming. My personal favorite time to find cheap flights here is in April, when the weather is not too hot yet. Once you find cheap flights to Florida, the opportunities are truly endless.

How do I get around the Florida Panhandle?

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the vast landscapes and unique places in the Florida Panhandle. Public transportation is limited, especially in smaller towns.

What is the prettiest town in the Florida Panhandle?

The Florida Panhandle boasts several picturesque towns, each with its unique charm. Among them, Seaside often stands out as one of the prettiest. Here’s why:

• Architectural Beauty: Seaside is renowned for its New Urbanism design. The town’s pastel-colored houses, picket fences, and cobblestone streets create a postcard-perfect setting.
• Beachfront: Seaside’s pristine white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters are some of the most beautiful in the region. The town’s iconic pavilions leading to the beach add a touch of elegance to the shoreline.
• Central Square: The town’s central square is bustling with activity, featuring boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet eateries. The amphitheater often hosts events, concerts, and outdoor movies.
• Community Feel: Seaside promotes a walkable community. The town’s design encourages residents and visitors to stroll through its streets, fostering a close-knit, friendly atmosphere.
• Natural Beauty: Beyond its beaches, Seaside is surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a serene backdrop for the town.

While Seaside is a standout, the Florida Panhandle has other beautiful towns like Rosemary Beach, Apalachicola, and Destin, each offering its unique allure.

Is the Florida Panhandle safe for tourists?

Absolutely. The Florida Panhandle is generally safe for tourists. Like any travel destination, it’s advisable to exercise standard safety precautions. The area offers popular vacation spots with well-maintained facilities and a low crime rate. However, it’s recommended to stay informed about local guidelines and conditions and be aware of potential weather-related concerns, such as hurricanes during certain seasons.

What are some must-try local foods in the Florida Panhandle?

Indulge in the unique flavors of the Florida Panhandle by trying its must-taste local foods. Savor fresh Gulf seafood, from succulent shrimp to flaky grouper, often served at charming coastal eateries. Dive into Southern comfort with dishes like creamy grits, collard greens, and cornbread. Don’t miss the chance to sample regional specialties like Apalachicola oysters, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the Panhandle.

What is the hidden gem in North Florida?

North Florida is replete with hidden gems, but one that often stands out for its natural beauty and relative obscurity is Ichetucknee Springs State Park.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park:

• Crystal Clear Springs: The park is home to the Ichetucknee River, which is fed by eight major crystalline springs. The water is so clear that you can easily see the myriad of fish and underwater vegetation as you float or snorkel.
• Tubing: One of the most popular activities in the park is tubing down the Ichetucknee River. It’s a serene experience, allowing visitors to drift lazily with the current, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.
• Wildlife: The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s not uncommon to spot turtles, otters, wild turkeys, wading birds, and even the occasional manatee.
• Diverse Activities: Beyond tubing, the park offers snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. There are trails that meander through forests and wetlands, providing a closer look at North Florida’s diverse ecosystems.
• Seclusion: Unlike some of Florida’s more popular springs, Ichetucknee retains a sense of untouched beauty. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature, away from large crowds.

What is the Florida Panhandle known for?

The Florida Panhandle is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, emerald-green waters, and charming small towns. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The region is also rich in history, featuring forts and museums, and is famous for its delicious seafood, particularly oysters.

Is the Florida Panhandle worth visiting?

Absolutely! The Florida Panhandle is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural richness. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear springs, and historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a relaxation enthusiast, the Panhandle offers an unforgettable experience.