Hi there! It’s Sarah from the Sunshine Explorers, and I’m here to share another unforgettable adventure with you. This time, our family—Mike, Jack (10), Emma (4), and I—traveled to the Florida Panhandle, a region filled with charming small towns, pristine beaches, and endless opportunities for family fun. Known for its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, the Panhandle offered the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for our crew.
The Road to the Panhandle
Our journey began with a scenic road trip from our home in central Florida. The kids were excited about heading to a part of the state we hadn’t explored much before. Jack, our budding geography enthusiast, spent time looking at the map and tracing our route, while Emma kept busy with coloring books and snacks.
As we approached the Panhandle, the landscape shifted to rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque coastal towns. It felt like we were entering a completely different side of Florida—a quieter, more untouched paradise.
Day 1: Beaches and Dunes in Destin
We kicked off our trip in Destin, a city known for its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald-green waters. Our first stop was Henderson Beach State Park, where we spent the day soaking up the sun.
Jack loved building sandcastles while Emma happily splashed in the shallow, calm waves. Mike and I took turns relaxing under an umbrella and strolling along the shoreline. The views were breathtaking, and the beach was surprisingly peaceful, even with other families around.
For lunch, we headed to a local seafood shack where we enjoyed fresh Gulf shrimp and fish tacos. Even Emma, our picky eater, loved her crispy fish bites.
Day 2: Wildlife and Water Fun in Navarre
The next day, we drove to Navarre, a quieter spot just west of Destin. Our first stop was the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, where the kids learned all about sea turtles and their importance to the local ecosystem. Jack was fascinated by the rescued turtles, and Emma was over the moon when she got to touch a turtle shell during a demonstration.
Afterward, we rented paddleboards and explored the calm waters of Santa Rosa Sound. Jack and Mike took to it quickly, paddling together, while Emma and I stayed closer to shore. It was a fun and relaxing way to experience the water from a new perspective.
Day 3: Exploring History in Pensacola
On our third day, we ventured to Pensacola, a city rich in history and charm. Our first stop was the National Naval Aviation Museum, a free and family-friendly attraction that Jack absolutely loved. The massive aircraft on display and interactive exhibits kept him entertained for hours, while Emma enjoyed climbing into some of the cockpits.
We also visited the historic Fort Pickens, located on the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The fort’s history fascinated Jack, who couldn’t stop asking questions about the soldiers who once lived there. Emma loved exploring the tunnels and wide-open spaces where she could run around.
Day 4: Quiet Beauty in Grayton Beach
We spent our final day at Grayton Beach State Park, a hidden gem with unspoiled beauty and plenty of space to relax. The beach here felt like our own little slice of paradise. Jack tried his hand at fishing with Mike, while Emma and I searched for seashells along the shore.
Before heading home, we took a short hike along one of the park’s nature trails, spotting birds and butterflies along the way. It was a peaceful and fitting end to our Panhandle adventure.
Why We Loved the Panhandle
As we drove back home, we couldn’t stop reminiscing about all the fun we had. The Florida Panhandle exceeded our expectations with its stunning beaches, family-friendly attractions, and welcoming communities.
What we loved most was the slower pace of life—it gave us a chance to truly connect as a family, away from the hustle and bustle of our usual routines. From the crystal-clear waters of Destin to the historic charm of Pensacola, every moment felt special.
If you’re looking for a family destination that combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a touch of history, the Panhandle is the perfect choice. We can’t wait to return and explore even more of this incredible region. Until next time, happy exploring!