Explore the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida – The Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida is a fantastic place to spend time in beautiful natural surroundings. You can enjoy a huge variety of outdoor activities at Gulf Islands National Seashore including activities both on and off the water.
You can visit Gulf Islands National Seashore for a spectacular day trip or a week long camping excursion. Stay at campgrounds or plan on a primitive camping experience if you would like to spend a few days at the Islands off the Seashore.
Some of the activities you can enjoy on the water at Gulf Islands National Seashore include boating, swimming, fishing and snorkeling. On the shore and inland you can go biking, hiking, visit historic forts, or take advantage of excellent bird watching opportunities.
The Florida District of the Gulf Islands National Seashore features a variety of hiking trails. Naval Live Oaks has nine trails, and you can learn about history as you explore the Andrew Jackson Trail here. You can also access a 40-mile bike loop trail from Naval Live Oaks, as well. This is also a wonderful place to simply relax and enjoy a picnic.
If you are visiting the Seashore with your family, you may wish to head for the Santa Rosa Sound, where the gentle surf makes the beach suitable for children. If you enjoy fishing, you can also fish from the shore at Santa Rosa Sound. Quieter waters suitable for families with children are available along the beach at Okaloosa Day Use Area near Fort Walton on the Seashore. This area features a boat launch and picnic tables, as well.
The Fort Pickens “Loop A” Campground offers sites on a first come, first serve basis. You can hike to Fort Pickens from the campground along a 2-mile (one way) trail. In addition to your self-guided tour of the Fort, you can explore many other scenic hiking trails at Fort Pickens.
The Perdido Key Area is another popular destination for Gulf Islands National Seashore visitors. This area features grassy picnic areas with tables, boardwalk walking trails, and provides access to the Gulf Beach. The beach at Perdido Key Area is life-guarded.
You may also wish to take advantage of the exhibits at the two Visitor’s Centers at the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida. There are interesting exhibits to explore indoors at both the Naval Live Oaks Visitor Center and the Fort Barrancas Visitor Center.
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