Visit Florida - Visit Florida 2025

For a detailed state map, see pages 20-21.

IDYLLIC SIGHTS & SOUTHERN CHARM

A string of laid-back beach towns steeped in history defines Florida’s northernmost Gulf Coast. Unwind on sugar-white sand, soak in emerald waters, discover close-knit communities with deep history, and embark on outdoor adventures. From Pensacola to Apalachicola, take in “Old Florida” treasures balanced with new-world offerings.

ATTRACTIONS

Embark on a journey through Apalachicola’s haunted past on the Apalach Ghost Tour, where eerie tales and local folklore come to life after dark. Climb the Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle, a beacon that stands for coastal views and a glimpse into maritime history. For an educational outing, head to Fort Walton Beach’s Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, where interactive exhibits and dolphin shows bring Florida’s marine life up close. Visit Gulf Breeze Zoo in Gulf Breeze, a 50-acre park full of wildlife experiences spotlighting giraffes, sloths, and other species. Soar across the lagoon at Baytowne Adventure Zone, an action-packed combo of zip lines and ropes courses set within Miramar Beach’s Sandestin Resort.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Scan the QR code to discover places to stay in Northwest Florida: VisitFlorida.com/places-to-stay

DINING

Start your culinary journey at Vin’tij Food & Wine in Sandestin, where seasonal charcuterie and chef-driven entrees await you in the restaurant, while hand-selected bottles in the adjoining wine shop and boutique bookend your experience. For a taste of local flavor, Lynn’s Quality Oysters in Eastpoint supplies fresh, Gulf-harvested oysters and seafood in a casual waterfront setting. In Mexico Beach, pair a pint with pub fare at Forgotten Coast Brewing, known for craft beers brewed with regional ingredients. Head to Panama City for El Weirdo Taco Pub, where inventive tacos and signature beers meet bold murals and art installations. Cap off your coastal tour at the secluded Sneaky Tiki Bar in the Pensacola Beach RV Resort, where tropical cocktails, island beats, and ocean views create a classic escape.

OUTDOORS

Rent a bike to explore the Timpoochee Trail in Seagrove, emblematic of Florida’s 30A region with coastal dunes and Instagram-worthy beach communities. Kids and adults can learn to build epic sandcastles with SandCastle Lessons on Rosemary Beach’s shores. Fort Walton Beach provides affordable beach wheelchair rentals and accessible beach walks. Rent gear from local outfitters to snorkel Perdido Key Reef, teeming with marine life and coral. At St. George Island State Park on St. George Island, discover untouched beaches and abundant wildlife. Hike, birdwatch, or simply relax on the secluded sands, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

EVENTS Experience the thrill of horsemanship at the Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo in Bonifay. Learn about sea turtle conservation efforts at the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Festival in Port St. Joe while enjoying live music, arts and crafts, and food trucks.

Scan the QR code for a current list of some major events: VISITFLORIDA.com/things-to-do/events

CULTURE

Trace Panama City’s history, architecture, and maritime heritage on the St. Andrews Historic Walking Tour along the bayfront. In Pensacola, take in a performance at the historic Saenger Theatre, notable for its elegant Art Deco design. Delve into Destin’s maritime legacy at the History and Fishing Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of the area’s fishing industry and coastal development dating back to 1830. Join Santa Rosa Beach locals as they celebrate Art Month in Walton County with exhibitions, workshops, and events highlighting the region’s artistic talent. Catch live performances at the Seaside Amphitheatre, where events take center stage against the backdrop of beaches and coastal charm synonymous with Seaside.