Perdido Key is a barrier island at the western tip of Florida's Panhandle. Perdido Key is a short distance south west of the city of Pensacola. It is the furthest west beach in Florida, and one of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf Coast.
The unspoiled, white sands of Perdido Key enjoy a history rich in lore. Rumor has it that pirates buried treasure along the precarious shoals of Perdido Bay where it enters the Gulf. Today, people still wander the beach hoping to uncover the lost treasures. Because of its unique geography the Key is one of the most natural and beautiful areas along the Gulf Coast. Here, the waves invite laughter and surfing, diving and sport fishing. The back bays and lagoons are ideal for boating or waterskiing. No doubt you’ll believe Florida's Perdido Key brims with treasure, whether or not you find anything buried.
PLACE TO VISIT
Johnson Beach Park - On the eastern end of the island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. $8 per car admission (re-entry allowed, for example if you wish to drive out for lunch and come back). Services and showers near the entrance; very quiet peaceful beach especially at the far end.
Gulf Islands National Seashore / Rosamond Johnson Beach -Located on the eastern end of Perdido Key. It is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Picnic shelters, restrooms, showers, and seasonal lifeguards. Fort McRee is located at the eastern tip of Johnson Beach and is accessible by boat or foot only. Sound side Nature Trail is a self guided nature trail that winds past a salt marsh and through a maritime forest. The nature trail is wheelchair accessible. The Johnson Beach Road is an enjoyable place to walk, jog, bike and view beautiful sunsets. There is a park fee of about $8.00 per car, which is good for 7 days and gets you into Fort Pickens on Santa Rosa Island and the Naval Live Oaks located in Gulf Breeze.
Big Lagoon State Recreation Area -Derives its name from a bordering body of water called Big Lagoon. The Park of 678 acres (2.74 km2) upland was opened in 1978 and beckons visitors with all the recreational opportunities expected at a Florida State Park. Follow the Cookie Trail, maintained by the Girl Scouts. Natural habitat includes numerous birds and animals – gray foxes, raccoons, skunks, opossums, great blue herons and other waterfowl, in addition to a variety of other birds. More than 75 campsites; five picnic areas with shelters, 500-seat amphitheater; boat ramp with dock; boardwalks and nature trails; and observation tower offering a panoramic view of Big Lagoon, the park and Gulf Islands National Seashore across the Intracoastal Waterway
Perdido Key State Recreation Area - Perdido Key State Recreation Area encompasses 247 acres (1.00 km2) on a barrier island, which buffers the mainland from winds and threatening tides and provides habitat for shore birds and other coastal animals. Saltwater fishing licenses required. Occupied shells are alive and should be left alone. The wide white sand beaches and the rolling dunes covered with sea oats make this a pristine oasis along the rapidly developing panhandle. Picnic shelters are between the Gulf and the Old River, which bounds Perdido Key on the north.
HOW TO REACH
By air - The closest airport is Pensacola Regional Airport in Pensacola.
By car - Florida State Route 292 links Perdido Key with Pensacola.
