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Top 11 Things to do in Perdido Key

Welcome to paradise! Perdido Key is nestled along Florida's Gulf Coast, offering unforgettable adventures. Whether you're a beach enthusiast, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Perdido Key has something special for everyone.

Join me as we explore the top 10 must-do activities in Perdido Key.

Visit Johnson Beach

Johnson Beach is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Johnson Beach gets its name after Rosamond Johnson, a Pensacola native who was the first soldier from Escambia County, Florida, to die in the Korean War.

There are a variety of activities to indulge in at Johnson Beach, perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're looking to kayak, swim, paddleboard, or relax on the sand, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Paddleboarding is my go-to summer activity. Not only is it fun, but it's also a great workout!

Explore Perdido Key State Park

Nestled on the barrier island of Perdido Key, the Perdido Key State Park is a great way to get out in nature and explore. I love heading out into nature with a camera and just strolling and taking pictures and videos of the scenery and wildlife; it's so relaxing. The park has a significant wildlife presence, so you never know what you might see along a hike here.

My favorite part about this park is that it is home to two endangered species - protected at this location; the loggerhead sea turtle and the Perdido Key beach mouse.

This state park is open from 8 AM - sunset, 365 days a year and is $3 per vehicle (up to eight people). Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required. It is $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Check out the Visitor Center

Be sure to stop by the Perdido Key Visitor Information Center! The Visitor Center serves as an essential resource for visitors and residents seeking information about Perdido Key and Escambia County including Pensacola and Pensacola Beach. Here, you'll find valuable resources for local attractions, events, and businesses in the area. Need a brochure, map, or friendly recommendation? They've got you covered!

Did I mention there are lionfish in the fish tank there? It adds a unique touch and is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

The knowledgeable staff is there to make your time unforgettable, offering helpful insights to ensure you make the most of your visit to Perdido Key.

Spend the Day Golfing

Do you enjoy golfing? Well, Perdido Key is definitely the spot for you! The area boasts several different golf courses for all levels of golfers. Seasoned pro, or just looking to have fun, everybody can hit the greens and enjoy their day in Perdido Key.

Lost Key Golf Club is an 18-hole course offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Perdido Key. Who doesn't love golfing with that coastal breeze? Another great spot is the Perdido Bay Golf Club near Perdido Bay. This is another 18-hole course that is further north on the Key.

Whichever golf adventure you choose in Perdido Key, you're sure to have a great time.

Hit the Bike Paths

Perdido Key is the perfect location for all your biking adventures. With several routes to choose from, it makes for a relaxing and easy biking adventure. Cycle the 6.5-mile Perdido Key multi-use path from Theo Baars Bridge to the Florida-Alabama line. Enjoy coastal views, visit Perdido Key State Park, and stop by the Visitor Information Center for resources and restrooms. There's also the Johnson Beach Multi-Use Trail, Perdido Key Bike Loop, and the Big Lagoon State Park Bike Route.

Visit the Flora-Bama Lounge

A must-do in Perdido Key is to stop by the Flora-Bama Lounge to grab a bushwacker and listen to music! A bushwacker is a delicious chocolatey drink that originated right here in Pensacola. It's my personal favorite thing to order when I'm out in Perdido Key - you can never go wrong with a bushwacker.

The Flora-Bama is a Gulf Coast cultural landmark, situated right on the state line of Alabama and Florida. This is also a fantastic place to enjoy some live music, offered 365 days a year.

Grab a Bite to Eat

Grabbing a bite to eat has never looked more delicious! Perdido Key is home to some of the best eats on the Gulf Coast. Be sure to check out some of the restaurants while you're here to satisfy all your coastal cravings.

Perdido Key Dining

Try a Watersport

Perdido Key is home to some of the best spots to play on the water. Take a day and get a watersport rental. There are several places to rent jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, and even boats. No better way to explore Perdido Key than by water (which just so happens to be my personal favorite way to explore). Grab your rentals at Flora-Bama Marina and Watersports and Lost Key Outdoors. I love a good day on the jet ski - I don't think anyone has ever regretted going on a jet ski ride on a nice sunny afternoon!

Go on a Fishing Charter

Gone fishin'? Fishing is another great way to spend time in Perdido Key. Climb aboard the fishing charters in the Perdido Key area and immerse yourself in the outdoor environment the area has to offer. Perdido Key is surrounded by various water bodies, including the Gulf of Mexico, Perdido Bay, and the Intracoastal Waterway, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a fishing adventure. The Entertainer and the Flora-Bama Marina have great fishing charter options to choose from. Panhandle Salt Beach Fishing also invites you to join them on the beach to start your own fishing adventure.

Ensure that you acquaint yourself with the fishing regulations in Florida, which encompass size and bag limits, seasonal closures, and mandatory licenses or permits. For valuable insights into optimal fishing locations, suitable equipment, and bait selection, consult local tackle shops and charter companies.

Visit a Public Beach Access

Perdido Key's public beach accesses are up and down the coastline of the Gulf of Mexico. Check out the location of the access points to decide where to go for your next Perdido Key beach day.

My idea of a perfect beach day on Perdido Key? Grab the beach towels, snorkel mask, umbrella, and the sunscreen (you don't want to end up looking like a lobster, been there, done that). Maybe I'd also grab a sandwich or snack. I like to head out earlier in the morning to beat the heat and then dive into the water to see if I can see any wildlife or find any seashells - it's a great past time.

Go RV Camping

There are several spots in Perdido Key to go camping. Perdido RV Resort and Marina, Playa del Rio RV Park, and Ole River RV Park are all great places to enjoy your time in Perdido Key.

Whether you prefer camping right on the beach or within a short distance from the water, Perdido Key offers RV camping options that will make your experience memorable and enjoyable.

Bonus Mention

Just over the bridge from Perdido Key is West Pensacola, home to Big Lagoon State Park, Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park, and NAS Pensacola. These are also great activities if you're looking for more to do just nearby.

Explore West Pensacola

Hannah Pinson

Author

Hannah Pinson

Website Associate, Visit Pensacola

Hannah is the Website Associate at Visit Pensacola. She has lived in Pensacola for about seven years and grew up in the Florida panhandle. When she's not at work, you can probably find her at the beach going for a sunset swim, walking on the Pensacola Beach Pier, or snorkeling on a sunny day. Hannah is passionate about all things digital and loves content creation as well as taking photos and videos. Whether it be grabbing a bite to eat in Downtown Pensacola, shopping, or going for a swim in the Gulf, Hannah is definitely a Pensa-local.
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