Stretching about 100 miles across the Gulf of Mexico in the beautiful ‘Sunshine State’ of Florida, there lies the magical coast dubbed as the Emerald Coast. It is host to six different cities; Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City, Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, and Navarre. On this stretch of beachfront, you will find sand that is so fine, powder-soft, and clean, it, alone, is said to be unforgettable. Not to mention the emerald green-colored water, which together with the sand creates the most wondrous stretch of paradise. If you are planning on visiting the Emerald Coast, rest assured that ahead of you lie magic and wonder and many beaches and cities to visit. That being said, here are a few tips that will pave the way for an unforgettable adventure, regardless of the duration of your trip.
Go Fishing to Relax and Bond
Fishing is a very relaxing and grounding activity with plenty of health benefits, and it is often great for bonding. The Emerald Coast is home to some of the best fishing piers In the world. In fact, Destin is known as the ‘world’s luckiest fishing village’, which is a name deserving of your confidence that you need to try out. Expect to reel in anything from flounder and king mackerel to a redfish.
Conveniently enough, seeing as you will be pier fishing, there is no fishing permit required. With the several piers offered in Destin, expect to have sumptuous fishing experience. However, make sure to first read the rules and regulations of the different fishing areas, since there are limits placed for your catch sizes and numbers.
Explore the Beaches
Among some of the best beaches in the world are found in the areas between Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island. Destin, which is famed for its pristine gulf beachfront, maintains the softness of its sand by raking the beachfront every night. This guarantees the satisfaction of today’s host of tourists, who are found enjoying themselves daily on the different beaches of Destin. It is paramount for all first-timers to at least pass by Destin, as it is often regarded as the crown jewel of the Emerald Coast. However, to avoid getting lost, you can use this map to help you find your way around the city, which offers detailed maps of various areas in Destin. This map will point you in the right direction and take you to some of the best beaches the Emerald Coast has to offer.
Equally wondrous is the neighboring city, Fort Walton Beach. Known to be a charming town, beachgoers can catch the nearby airbase putting on a one of a kind air show that includes military planes and jets soaring over their heads. This can be very entertaining for those with an affinity for aircrafts.
For the most part, every single beachfront stretched on the Emerald Coast will certainly offer a memorable experience. Make sure to pass by Destin, Fort Walton, Okaloosa Island, and Grayton, if you do not have them listed in your itinerary already. If you still have some time towards the end of your trip, drive over to Seaside, to embrace and enjoy truly picturesque sceneries. Remember to visit the famous John Beasley Park, located on Okaloosa Island, which is a public park that is rarely ever crowded, even though it offers free entry. With the beach’s various facilities, which include showers and a picnic pavilion, you can forget all about work and the stress it has given in your life.
Dinner at The Boardwalk
The famous Emerald Coast Boardwalk, Okaloosa Island offers several fine sea-view restaurants. The place is rather laid back and casual, so you do not have to worry about strolling in with sand on your feet. Many of the shops and restaurants are famed for their seafood dishes, so treat yourself to a fine evening.
Engage in Different Activities
Tourists can engage in the different activities offered along this magical coast. From kayaking to scuba diving, there are many ways to discover the amazing Emerald Coast. The calm water is perfect for taking up paddle board lessons and discovering the coast on a kayak. If you head out into the water early in the morning, you can spot dolphins swimming. Additionally, the area occupies many artificial reefs and wrecks, as well as very rich sea life. If you are not a scuba diver, you will have an equally mesmerizing but slightly different experience.
Watch the Sunset and Sunrise
Coveted by the romanticists, the Emerald Coast boasts a unique landscape that makes it possible to watch both sunset and sunrise over the water. Many locations make this possible, however, none are as marvelous as The Landing, which is located in Fort Walton.
All in all, if you go on these tips, you will get to enjoy an unforgettable adventure on the Emerald Coast. This magical strip boasts serene waters, nature’s finest greens, and the ever cherished Southern hospitality, so there is virtually no way this trip can go wrong.
