Gulf Islands National Seashore
The Gulf Islands National Seashore is a group of ocean-front lands that are protected from development. The seashore is comprised of several areas located throughout the Florida panhandle.
The areas include opportunities for traditional water activities such as swimming, skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating, and sunbathing. In addition, there are several hiking trails available including the Andrew Jackson Trail and a 40 mile bike loop.
The seashore is also home to both the historic Fort Barancas and Fort Pickens. Guests can enjoy fishing and primitive camping at Fort Pickens or tour Fort Barancas.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
(850) 934-2600
nps.gov
Panhandle Butterfly House
The Panhandle Butterfly House is a non-profit exhibit that specializes in butterflies and plants that are native to the Florida panhandle area. The gardens and house are open during the summer months only, from May to Labor Day.
During the operating season, the Panhandle Butterfly House has between 300 and 500 live butterflies on display. The house is adjacent to the Nature Walk of Navarre, which introduces visitors to native plants and wildlife.
Panhandle Butterfly House
(Located in Navarre Park on Hwy. 98 at the foot of the Navarre Bridge)
P.O. Box 5208
Navarre, FL 32566
(850) 623-3868
panhandlebutterflyhouse.org
Florida's Gulfarium
The Gulfarium is home to over 200 species of marine animals, birds, and reptiles. Visitors flock to the dolphin show, sea lion show, and multi-species show, which features bottlenose dolphins and a California sea lion performing together. In addition, there are shark, penguin, and otter feedings available between shows. Other attractions include salt water aquariums, a living sea exhibit, and pelican pond. The Living Sea exhibit showcases local marine life in a 60,000 gallon aquarium of circulating filtered sea water. The Gulfarium is open most days of the year, and entry fees are below $20 a person, as of November 2009.
Florida's Gulfarium
1010 Miracle Strip Parkway SE
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
(850) 243-9046
gulfarium.com
