Are you thinking of visiting the Florida Panhandle but not sure what things to do to make this a trip to remember?
Well, I don’t want your beach plans to flip-flop!
Let The Florida Hipster Blog seas the day!
I’ve got 15 of the most amazing things to do in the Florida Panhandle so all you have to do is decide which will be first!
The Florida Panhandle is located in the northwest part of the Sunshine State running from Pensacola’s southeast all along to the gorgeous Cedar Key.
Famous for its miles of sugar white sand beaches and paradise emerald waters, it’s a playground of beach towns, natural beauty, history, and fun.
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Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle at a Glance:
- Saddle up and take a ride along the coast in Cape San Blas on one of only three beaches in Florida where you can horseback ride on the beach
- Take a walk down memory lane to old Florida where you can find loads of old-fashioned favorite treats and items at The Little Big Store of DeFuniak Springs
- Visit the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center and learn about these gentle giants or come out for a dawn patrol in search of turtle tracks and nests in Port Saint Joe
- Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Shell Island and discover the underwater world of Panama City Beach
- Coined the “Festival City of the South” Pensacola has year-round festivals from Mardi Gras, Blue Angels Airs Shows, Seafood and Crawfish festivals to even Barktoberfest for you and your furry friends
Keep reading to find out why these are my favorite things to do in the Florida Panhandle.
Why We Love The Florida Panhandle
There are so many hidden gems within the Florida Panhandle! But some of my favorite things to do in Florida and places to visit for that much-needed escape are:
- Cape San Blas
- Tallahassee
- Fort Walton Beach
- Marianna
- Pensacola
- Panama City Beach
- Destin
- Wakulla Springs
- St. George’s Island
- Apalachicola
It’s bad manners to keep a vacation waiting, so let’s turn that vacation mode on!
1. Cape San Blas
Cape San Blas is located out on Florida’s Forgotten Coast and is the perfect destination to forget about the stresses of life.
It’s all about serenity and peace here with laid-back beach vibes and quiet nature.
Rent a bike and explore the Loggerhead Bike trail, wade out into the bay and catch some scallops, or have fun crabbing at night.
Why Cape San Blas is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Take advantage of Cape San Blas being one of the few places where you can ride horses right on the beach.
Riding out on the white sand beaches with the unreal blue waters beside you is by far one of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle. Especially if you head out at sunrise or sunset.
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2. Tallahassee
Home to Florida State University (FSU) and Florida’s State Capital, Tallahassee is a city bursting with passion and pride.
You can’t possibly visit Tallahassee and not catch a game at FSU. The energy and spirit are contagious.
And if you’re there during the week then find out if you have what it takes to be a Rattler (our Editor’s Alumni) and get a tour of the FAMU campus.
Why Tallahassee is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Rolling hills, parks, and gardens, it isn’t just an urban getaway. Tour the 24 acres of Cascades Park.
Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is a place to soak up Florida’s natural beauty especially from January to April when the flowers are in full bloom.
You can also explore the John G. Riley Center & Museum for African American History & Culture.
Kayaking, miles of trails, perfect lakes for paddle-boarding, beautiful winding paths, it’s an oasis!
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3. Fort Walton Beach
The emerald green and teal waters of Fort Walton Beach remind you exactly why it’s called Florida’s Emerald Coast. It is truly breathtaking!
This is the destination for beach lovers that want to spend some time dipping their toes into the shimmering quartz sand beach and soak up its laid-back vibes.
Why Fort Walton Beach is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Famous for its perfect sandy beach, there’s more to Fort Walton Beach than sunny days at the shore especially if you love a little history.
The Airforce Armament Museum is full of historic plane after plane, exhibits, missiles, and rockets, and it’s free! You will find it just a few miles outside of town.
The interactive Emerald Coast Science Center is where you can feel like a kid again or try your hand at some Ratchet Hatchet Axe Throwing.
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4. Marianna
Known as The City of Southern Charm, Mariana is home to the Florida Cavern State Park and its labyrinth of underground rooms.
It’s one of the top things to do in Florida as it’s the only state park of this kind in all of Florida!
They are open from 8 am until the sun goes down and the cavern tours aren’t available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays but don’t worry there is still plenty to do.
From astronomy nights, canoe rentals, swimming, biking, and hiking you can still enjoy the great Florida outdoors!
Why Marianna is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
The town lives up to its name with its quaint and charming vibes. Stop into Southern Craft Creamy for some southern hospitality.
Stay chill with a scoop of Tupelo Honey or if the season’s right a scoop of candied bacon!
If you are heading here in June then it’s time for The Panhandle Watermelon Festival in nearby Chipley, where everyone is losing their rind for the free music festival.
And of course, all things melons!
5. Pensacola
Make your way to the westernmost city in Florida’s Panhandle and visit the city coined the “Festival City of the South”.
There is a festival for everyone from foodie and seafood festivals, and music festivals to even one for your pets and those looking for a new furever home at Barktoberfest.
Why Pensacola is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Pensacola is buzzing with action and an exciting lineup of fun and interesting events to keep your calendar booked throughout the year.
One of the most loved things to do in Florida is the Blue Angels Air Shows when epic performances take place up in the sky above their home turf.
Not once but twice, with two different shows in the year.
July brings the Pensacola Beach Airshow and November hosts the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show.
Needless to say, set up your home base for the show early everyone loves to see the Blue Angels take to the skies.
Best Things to Do in Pensacola, Florida
- Mardi Gras in February
- VegFest in March
- Pensacola Crawfish Festival and Interstate Mullet Toss in April
- Bands on the Beach April through November
- Pensacola Seafood Festival in September
- Barktoberfest in October
- Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition and Pensacola Interstate Fair in October
- Foo Foo Festival in November
- Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival in November
- Pensacola Winterfest in December
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6. Havana
Welcome to “Florida’s friendliest small town“ just northwest of Tallahassee.
This one is pronounced a little bit differently than the Havana you are thinking of, it’s Hay-vana here.
Perfect for antique lovers and those with a spark for history, Havana is full of charming old homes, boutiques, and shops.
Why Havana is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
The Planters Exchange is an absolute must. An antique mall within a designated National Historic Landmark, even if you aren’t looking to shop it’s a fun outing through time.
Havana is known as “a very different Florida”.
A place to stroll down Main Street and unwind in the quaint vibes of small-town Florida with a little retail therapy and cozy café treats.
Heroes & Villains Sweets & Treats is a fun-themed sweets shop with cotton candy burritos, root beer floats, and tonnes of delish treats.
7. DeFuniak Springs
DeFuniak Springs is a small town but with big character taking you back to the feels of Old Florida.
Nothing feels more like stepping back in time than a visit to The Little Big Store.
This spot is a hidden treasure within the Florida Pahandle where you will walk in and find so many of the old-fashioned favorite candies and items that you may not have seen in so long. This is one walk down memory lane that all ages will love!
Why DeFuniak is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Chautauqua Vineyards & Winery is the ultimate place to wine down your days with their wine tastings and vineyard. And the best part is the free wine samples daily!
As they say…it’s wine o’clock somewhere!
There’s also a little oasis of peace amongst the village at Lake Stanley Park and a great place to picnic and cool off in the clear waters.
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8. Panama City Beach
If you are looking for picture-perfect days at the beach, then Panama City Beach it is!
This is the perfect place to add a bit of adventure to your trip to the Florida Panhandle where you can become an underwater explorer.
Panama City Beach is one of the best places to snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Shell Island in search of tropical fish, spectacular rays, and all kinds of other marine life.
Why Panama City Beach is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
This resort vacation town is centered around the water and all things fun to keep your spirit young.
Be sure to get plenty of sleep before this trip because Panama City Beach has some of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle!
Best Things to Do in Panama City Beach, Florida
- Stroll through Pier Park to eat, shop, hop on some rides, or catch an IMAX
- Wander out onto the long Russell-Fields Pier to search for dolphins or watch the sunset
- Get a wine slushie to go at Panama City Beach Winery (it’s right across from the beach)!!
- Snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Shell Island and discover the underwater world
- Get up and early and walk the miles of gorgeous sandy beach before the beach fills up with the crowds
- Party at one of the best nightclubs in Florida at the world-famous Ms. Newbys with a Hunch Punch in hand
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9. Quincy
Turn back time and fall back into the days of yesteryear in Quincy.
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If you love the North Florida Arts Trail, then add Quincy to your list of things to do in Florida.
Why Quincy is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Victorian homes make you feel like you are in a different era in the Florida Panhandle. And downtown square and the olden drugstore add just the right touch!
Gadsden Arts Center & Museum has traveling exhibits and is full of Southern Vernacular Art. Feeling creative? Then drop into the free art zone, and discover your inner artist within their studio.
10. Destin
Don’t worry beach happy are the vibes in Destin.
Henderson Beach State Park is a must with its sand dunes and clear waters. But get there early it is one of the favorite and famous beaches of Destin. It is open all year long from 8 am until the sun goes down at a cost of only $6 per vehicle.
Why Destin is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
How often can you go for something to eat and go gator-watching?
Well, if you eat at Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, you can for free. Gator Beach is part of the restaurant!
Want to up your beach skills, try your hand at some sandcastle-building lessons. But some of the best fun is off the beach, and on the water…on a tiki bar.
It’s party time on this tiki sunset cruise and you may even get to see some dolphins.
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11. Wakulla Springs
South of Tallahassee about 14 miles is Wakulla Springs, with unspoiled land it’s a great place for those wanting to get away and into nature.
Renting a kayak or canoe and paddling out onto the water into the true lush and authentic old Florida takes you out on an adventure in time and peace.
Why Wakulla Springs is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
The freshwater springs of Wakulla Springs State Park are known to be some of the deepest and largest and full of wildlife.
Glass bottom boat tours are one of the best ways to get up close and personal with the beauty of it all.
If you are a fan of the early Tarzan movies, then you may just recognize the place. Some of the filming took place right here!
12. Port Saint Joe
Quoted as the “small town with a big heart” out on the Forgotten Coast, Port Saint Joe is a retreat for some relaxation.
Port Saint Joe lets you unplug from the hustle and bustle and is a break from the busy beach towns.
Why Port Saint Joe is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
This Florida Panhandle destination is the ultimate destination to connect with nature and animals. Be sure to check out The Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center.
You can learn how to help preserve these gentle giants or come out for a dawn patrol in search of turtle tracks and nests and catch an incredible sunrise.
Kayaking into the bay or out paddle-boarding, biking the trails, and bonfires at the beach get you out into the fresh air. Kick back and unwind with some beer and oysters at Indian Pass Raw Bar or catch some karaoke and live music.
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13. St. George’s Island
For those that love quiet beaches and retreating into nature, St. George’s Island is the getaway for you.
With sea breezes and serenity, it is a Florida Panhandle hidden secret that is worth the trip! Just even the road trip out here is so beautifully scenic and full of natural beauty.
Bring all your besties and your pets, they are invited too!
Why St. George’s Island is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Set aside time for St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, there are thousands of acres to explore in its untouched sanctuary of birds and wildlife.
If you still have energy, then make your way to the top of the lighthouse for some epic 360 views.
Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park is another unspoiled escape to recharge in nature and find your Zen.
14. St. Marks
This tiny town is one of Florida’s most historic towns so if you love history make your way to the end of Woodville Highway.
From a look back in history to adventures out on the water or soaking up the natural beauty this charming Florida Panhandle destination is a great place for your next Florida vacation.
Why St. Marks is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
The second oldest lighthouse station in Florida is here in St. Marks and is picture-perfect to capture some amazing waterfront photos.
San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park museum is great for history buffs where you can see some ancient archeological finds.
The park has no entrance fee and the museum is only $2 to enter! It is open Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
15. Apalachicola
An enchanting town with historic charm, Apalachicola is in scenic Franklin County.
A mecca for seafood and oysters they host Florida Seafood Festival every year!
Why Apalachicola is One of the Most Amazing Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
I love the waterfront restaurants with freshly caught seafood and all the sweet treats at Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company.
Especially the popping chocolate! Vintage treasure hunting in the antique shop and traveling back through time at John Gorrie Museum.
It is a getaway fit for those who want to take things a bit slower and fall in love with the simple things in life again.
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My Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in the Florida Panhandle
Wow! What a list!!!
There you have it. You officially know some of the best things to do in the Florida Panhandle for every type of visitor. Now it’s your turn…
What’s one of your favorite things to do in this historic Florida town? Let me know on my Instagram Page!
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
Sarah Jordan is a solo traveler enthusiast, professional travel writer, and proud mama to her rescue dog Coconut.
With a love for destinations across the globe, she made Epcot her first theme park and still treasures her EPCOT World Showcase passport to this day.
After finally following her inner wanderlust, she discovered the freedom and empowerment that solo travel brings.
Some Photos Courtesy of Canva.com
(Original Article Date: April 17, 2023/Updated by Editor on March 23, 2024)