6 Most Charming Towns in Florida's Emerald Coast

Stretching roughly 100 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, Florida's Emerald Coast is a scenic stretch of coastline within the state's "panhandle." The Emerald Coast gets its name from the blue-green color of the Gulf of Mexico water in that region, and is home to many white sandy beaches that delight both locals and visitors alike. In addition to having beautiful beaches to dig your toes into, this coastline is also blessed with charming towns that you can spend a weekend trip or extended holiday exploring. Whether you're into the Florida arts and shopping scene, or prefer to relax and recharge with outdoor activities, you'll find it in these six Emerald Coast towns.

Destin

Situated in the middle of the Emerald Coast, Destin has been dubbed the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" due to its plentiful ocean fishing options. Take a saltwater fishing charter, or try your luck on the city's pier. Other ways to take advantage of Destin's seaside location are by signing up for a snorkeling or kayaking excursion, or just spending a few days laying on the beach or swimming in the warm ocean water.

If history is more your thing, take time to explore the Destin History and Fishing Museum, which pairs exhibits on the area's early settlers and fishing industry with walls lined by more than 75 mounted Gulf fish species. Shoppers won't want to miss the Destin Commons, a collection of local boutiques and commercial stores in a breezy, open-air setting. The city's HarborWalk Village offers a waterfront shopping experience that allows you to take in the area's natural beauty.

Fort Walton Beach

Located next to Destin, Fort Walton Beach visitors are also treated to the Gulf of Mexico water and white sand, which originated from Appalachian quartz. For adventurous vacationers, book an offshore trip with Blue Water Escape Charters, where you can see or catch deep sea fish such as mahi mahi, grouper, amberjack, cobia and even sharks.

Families won't want to miss spending a day or evening at the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, which offers a varied mix of beachfront dining and shopping options. Take a walk out on the boardwalk that reaches out into the Gulf of Mexico, enjoying the balmy ocean breezes and stunning views. Another kid-friendly activity in Fort Walton Beach is Wild Willy's Adventure Zone, Northwest Florida's most expansive family entertainment center. Bond with your loved ones in a state-of-the-art arcade, a 4D movie theater and a laser maze.

Pensacola

The largest city on the Emerald Coast and the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola is home to the Naval Air Station and the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, otherwise known as the Blue Angels. The city also offers easy access into and out of the Emerald Coast via the Pensacola International Airport.

Immerse yourself in the coastal city's natural beauty by exploring one of the area's several state parks. Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park, which spans more than 4,000 acres, plays host to four species of rare carnivorous pitcher plants, including white-top pitcher plants found only along the Gulf Coast. You can take a walk into the bayou via a boardwalk, and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by almost 100 rare plant and animal species.

History lovers won't want to miss the National Naval Aviation Museum, which offers over 4,000 artifacts and more than 150 restored aircraft from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The Pensacola Museum of History gives visitors an introspective look into the city's rich culture, while America's First Settlement Trail will lead you down a 3-mile path through the charming Pensacola Historic District.

Pensacola Beach

Stretching approximately 8 miles along the Gulf of Mexico on Santa Rosa Island, Pensacola Beach is a charming small town filled with sunshine, entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere. Most of the white sandy shoreline is open to the public, making it easy to find a spot for your beach chair or towel for the day. A highlight of Pensacola Beach is the Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier, which stretches into the Gulf and invites ocean enthusiasts for a walk. If you want a break from the beach, visit Fort Pickens on the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a historic site preserved by the National Park Service that features a Civil War-era brick fort, the Bluebird Marsh Trail, a campground, and picnic areas. Additionally, you can browse shops for beach-themed gifts, clothing, toys, and gear. Enjoy lunch or dinner with views of the Gulf, or experience live music at a local bar.

Navarre

Located just east of Pensacola, Navarre provides the ideal experience for a small Florida beach town. This charming community boasts 12 miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, perfect for picnics, walks, or bike rides by the water. The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, the longest in Florida, offers scenic walks over the ocean and numerous deep-sea fishing options. Spanning over 1,500 feet and rising 30 feet above the Gulf, the pier offers stunning, unobstructed views of the ocean and shoreline. Like other delightful towns on the Emerald Coast, Navarre features a variety of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual beachfront cafes, all with beautiful views and fresh seafood. Visitors can also find plenty of shops to buy beach gear and souvenirs.

Panama City Beach

On the eastern end of the Emerald Coast, Panama City Beach beckons visitors with its 27 miles of white, sugar sand coastline. You won't have to choose between a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting, action-packed trip as Panama City Beach offers visitors a bit of both.

Panama City Beach offers two state parks for those wanting to explore local wildlife, flora and fauna. Camp Helen State Park offers a variety of ecosystems to immerse yourself in, including freshwater wetlands and salt marshes. St. Andrews State Park features migratory birds, alligators and many other animal species, along with kayak, snorkeling and camping opportunities.

If you're on a family vacation, visit the Hidden Lagoon Golf and Racetrack, which features a mile-long go-kart track and an outdoor mini-golf course. For more sunny fun, head to the city's Shipwreck Island Waterpark, where you can unwind in a wave pool or enjoy a kid-friendly water slide.