You may have heard of or visited Orange Beach, Alabama, which, along with the neighboring Gulf Shores, is a popular vacation spot for beach lovers almost all year round. Just a short drive across the Florida border, Perdido Key offers a quieter and more affordable escape. This narrow strip of land, about 16 miles long, boasts the same beautiful green waters and white sandy beaches as its neighbors, but with fewer crowds and more budget-friendly lodging options. Over half of Perdido Key is designated as federal or state parkland, preserving its natural beauty and earning it the nickname “Lost Island.”
But there’s more to Perdido Key than just the beach. Visitors can enjoy activities such as biking, snorkeling, and golfing. And for those seeking additional entertainment, nearby destinations like Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Pensacola are just a short distance away.
In addition to beach activities, you can explore the outdoors at places like Johnson Beach, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, known for its pristine sands and abundant seashells. Perdido Key State Park offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, birdwatching, and surf fishing, with a chance to spot sea turtles and other wildlife.
For those interested in underwater adventures, Perdido Key has its own artificial reef that attracts tropical fish and sea turtles, perfect for snorkeling or diving trips. Active travelers can enjoy biking along the Perdido Key multi-use path or playing a round of golf at Lost Key Golf Club or Perdido Bay Golf and Lodging.
History enthusiasts can visit nearby sites like Fort Pickens on Pensacola Beach, a Civil War-era fort with cannons and tunnels to explore, or tour the National Aviation Museum in Pensacola for a fascinating look at military history.
Historic aircraft from the Marines, Navy, and Coast Guard are proudly showcased both inside and outside the museum. Visitors can explore these iconic aircraft while also experiencing flight simulators and enjoying screenings in the giant screen theater.
For those looking to savor unique culinary experiences, Pensacola offers a variety of options to indulge in. One must-visit spot is the Flora-Bama, a renowned dive bar situated right on the Florida-Alabama border. This popular establishment boasts a beachfront deck, live music performances, the annual mullet toss event, and a signature cocktail known as the Bushwacker. In addition to the refreshing drinks, guests can also enjoy a range of food options available at the indoor oyster bar or at the open-air grill and yacht club.
Seafood enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to dine at The Jellyfish. Despite its name, this restaurant does not feature jellyfish on its menu. However, patrons can delight in a selection of fresh seafood dishes ranging from shrimp and wahoo to oysters. The establishment has garnered popularity for its commitment to serving the freshest catch of the day, making it a favored spot for both dinner and happy hour, which takes place on weekdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Another culinary gem worth exploring is Jaime’s Local Seafood Shack, a food truck that whips up delectable sandwiches, tacos, and seafood baskets. Guests can also sample unexpected delicacies such as Alligator and Jalapeno Bites. The menu features an array of taco options, including grouper and coconut shrimp varieties paired with pineapple slaw, black bean and corn salsa, and chips, providing a delightful culinary experience.
These recommendations offer a glimpse into the diverse and vibrant dining scene that Pensacola has to offer, allowing visitors to savor a mix of flavors and culinary delights while exploring the city’s rich cultural and historical offerings.
