Combining Florida’s “Emerald Coast” and “Forgotten Coast,” the Panhandle is filled with unspoiled natural beauty you just won’t find anywhere else in the state. A combination of alluring white-sand beaches, emerald waters, and quiet barrier islands, visitors can come and soak in the laid-back vibes of the Panhandle’s small fishing towns and quaint beachside cities.
Ideal for visitors who want to get away from the hoards of tourists, the Panhandle offers a range of picturesque landscapes that are perfect for a day of outdoor adventures, where visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, or diving. Spanning from Pensacola to Tallahassee and Northwest Florida, here are the best day trips in the Florida Panhandle.
Grayton Beach
South Walton’s original community from the 1800s, Grayton Beach is artsy and full of character. Hemingway-style wooden homes line picturesque side streets paved with crushed oyster shells, as Grayton Beach has perfected the balance of history and culture. Colorful cottages are nestled amongst local boutiques and art galleries, while the vibe here is easy-going and unpretentious. Consistently ranking among the most beautiful beaches in Florida, Grayton Beach State Park features 400 acres of sugar-sand beaches, nature trails, and a unique coastal dune lake.
Apalachicola
A charming fishing town with a deep maritime history, Apalachicola is known for its friendly locals and world-renowned seafood. Lovely parks line the area, where canopy-shaded sidewalks line the 900 historic listings that range from small cottages and stained glass church windows. With its Old Florida vibes, this road trip-worthy small town offers insight into an era once filled with steamboats and schooners. Walk along the working waterfront and explore the bustling seafood houses, where traditional shrimp boats reel in the day’s catch. Fishing is a popular activity on the Apalachicola River and in Apalachicola Bay, in addition to tours of the waterways by kayak, canoe or riverboat.
Perdido Key
Located on Florida’s far northwest, Perdido Key is situated on a tiny strip of land. Offering an idyllic slice of paradise with rolling, white-sand dunes and warm Gulf waters, a day trip here will feel like you’ve escaped to your own personal oasis. One of the best places in Florida to avoid the crowds, it’s easy to appreciate the area’s breathtaking views and lose track of time, as hiking, crabbing, and fishing are popular activities. Visitors who simply haven’t had enough during the day can stay overnight, as camping is available if you cross the bridge to Big Lagoon State Park Campground.
St. George Island
Located just off the Gulf Coast, St. George Island is one of Florida’s favorite hidden gems. With 28 miles of pristine natural landscapes, it is one of the last unspoiled barrier islands in Florida and is even pet-friendly. Boasting endless water-based beach activities, families can take a day trip to capture the area’s peaceful ambiance and go swimming, canoeing, hiking, or fishing without the hoards of tourists. Marshes provide premier wildlife viewing, while the area’s strict building codes mean that you won’t capture views of high-rise hotels or chain stores.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Water loving families will delight in a day trip to Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Fort White, as the crystalline waters flow six miles through shaded hammocks. Ideal for a day of swimming, tubing, and kayaking, the Ichetucknee River sits amongst towering live oak and cypress trees that make it an appealing activity on one of Florida’s hot summer days. One of the best natural springs in Florida, the headspring of the river offers plenty of wildlife viewing, from white-tailed deer to great blue herons. Nearby Blue Hole Spring is popular for scuba divers, while picnic tables and grills are available for those who want to relax.
Destin
Affectionately nicknamed the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” Destin is a popular day trip destination due to its top-notch fishing and gorgeous beaches. Take a dip in the emerald-hued waters of the Gulf, play a round at one of the area’s world-class golf courses, or go on a deep-sea fishing tour. A perfect destination to take the entire family, visitors can walk along the action-packed boardwalk or visit nearby attractions such as Henderson Beach State Park. A postcard-perfect destination, Henderson boasts 6,000 feet of natural shoreline, warm clear waters and a variety of nature trails that pair well with its relaxed atmosphere.
Fort Walton Beach
Located between Pensacola and Panama City along North Florida’s scenic Gulf Coast, Fort Walton Beach is the perfect day trip for families with kids. When you’re not out on one of the award-winning beaches, explore the area’s history at the Indian Temple Mound Musem and Air Force Armament Museum, learn about science at the Emerald Coast Science Center or peer into large aquariums at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park for a day of fun. Visit the popular Boardwalk on nearby Okaloosa Island, or go on one of the famous dolphin-watching cruises to watch unforgettable sunsets on the water.
Marianna
Nicknamed “The City of Southern Charm,” Marianna is filled with 19th-century relics and antiques, where the scene of the Civil War Battle of Marianna still stands. The biggest draw to this area is the Florida Caverns State Park, where visitors can come to discover damp caves loaded with limestone stalagmites and stalactites dripping from its ceiling, a process that took millions of years to form. Camping and fishing are also popular activities here, as many hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders find its trails appealing.
St. Joseph Peninsula State Park
Boasting 9.5 miles of snow-white sand beach, St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is considered by many to be one of the best beaches in the country. Its beauty is enhanced by its untouched natural landscapes, where a quiet day of fishing and swimming will leave you feeling recharged and rejuvenated. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, visitors can explore the Wilderness Preserve, set up a picnic, hike along the bay shore and meander through the nature trails to spot diverse wildlife.
Pensacola
Considered the epicenter of the Florida Gulf Coast, Pensacola is famous for its beautiful beaches. Whether you want to lay out a towel and soak in the postcard-worthy views of sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters or stroll the lively Pensacola Beach Pier, visitors are spoiled for choice in daytime activities. History runs deep here, as visitors can take a tour of the 19th-century homes or National Naval Aviation Museum. Snorkel and explore the area’s underwater aquatic life, indulge in fresh seafood from beachside eateries, or stay to watch the vibrant sunsets.
Navarre
Nicknamed “Florida’s Playground,” Navarre is a compact community with 12 miles of unspoiled beach. One of Florida’s hidden gems, spend a day soaking in the beauty of the Gulf Islands National Seashore in complete solitude. A family-friendly area where relaxation is king, visitors will be hard-pressed to find a day trip activities more enjoyable than swimming in the emerald waters, biking through the scenic pathways, and sunbathing on the white-sand beaches.
Seaside
A small community with skinny streets and white picket fences, movie enthusiasts will enjoy taking a day trip to the former set of “The Truman Show” movie. A pedestrian-friendly area with pastel-colored houses, this quaint area is a great place for families to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a walk along the main streets to find art galleries, farmers’ markets, and local boutiques, or simply spend your time on the sugar-white sand beach and in beachside eateries.
Panama City
More than just a spring break destination, Panama City attracts surfers, divers, and nature lovers from around the state, eager to explore its range of outdoor adventures. Spend a day diving through fascinating shipwreck sites, take a boat out to capture glimpses of dolphin pods or hop on a romantic sunset cruise around the area. Gulf World Marine Park and ZooWorld are educational attractions that appeal to the kids, while St. Andrews State Park offers a delightful place to go snorkeling, surfing, and fishing.
Port St. Joe
Nestled on the shores of St. Joseph Bay, Port St. Joe is a “Small Town with a Big Heart,” where visitors are met with southern hospitality, natural scenic beauty, and a rich history. An array of family-friendly attractions is peppered throughout the area, as Frank Pate Park is home to various playgrounds and trails to explore and Port St. Joe Marina offers visitors the chance to go scalloping or offshore fishing. Browse the Historic Downtown Shopping District for unique souvenirs, dine on freshly caught seafood or lounge on the inviting white sand dune beach.
