Fishing, hiking, biking, nature photography, swimming, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, boating and bird-watching are just some of the opportunities for eco-tourists to explore Florida nature in Panama City Beach, Fla.
St. Andrew’s State Park has been named the #2 beach in the nation, according to Trip Advisor. Over one-and-a-half miles of open beach at this Florida state park, to lounge in the sun or water lovers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and canoeing. Two fishing piers, a jetty {the greatest beach ever for families}, and a boat ramp provide ample fishing opportunities, and two nature trails wind through a rich diversity of coastal plant communities providing an excellent opportunity for bird-watching at St. Andrews State Park Florida in Panama City Beach.
You can also take a boat tour to Shell Island, the 700-acre island is densely populated with bottle-nosed dolphins, as well as a number of different wild bird species, including pelicans, sandpipers, gulls and piping and snowy plovers. Colorful fish, sea turtles and other aquatic life also call the area around Shell Island home. Shuttles are available to take visitors back and forth from St. Andrew's State Park. If you feel really adventurous, you can rent kayaks and make the voyage across the pass on your own.
Camp Helen State Park is a hidden gem for those looking to get away. It’s bordered on three sides by the Gulf of Mexico and Lake Powell – one of the largest coastal dune lakes in the state of Florida. Natural areas for public enjoyment in the park range from coastal dunes and salt marshes along the Gulf to freshwater wetlands and sand pine scrub along the lake. Fishing areas are available for both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts at this Florida state park. Other activities include swimming, beachcombing, nature study and hiking. My family really enjoyed walking the park and studying all the wildlife. The old buildings are very interesting too.
Conservation Park is made up of 12 trails ranging from 0.6 to 11 miles for walking, biking, wildlife & birdwatching. The Conservation Park integrates two fundamental principles which remain a continuing focus for local government and community. The desire to protect and balance our natural resources while providing outdoor recreational opportunities is the driving force in establishing the Panama City Beach Conservation Park. The 2,900 acres of the West Bay Ecosystem is being protected by the management and utilization of the City’s reclaimed water to rehydrate wetlands. The natural water balance in these wetlands was altered many years ago as tree “farming” became predominant in the area. My family was amazed at how large conservation park was! We loved it and we still have never seen the entire park....great Natural Florida.
So Panama City Beach doesn't just have to be about the strip, shopping, and swimming. Panama City Beach has several hidden gems just waiting to be explored. Bring the family and come on down!
