Eco Nature
Florida State Parks & so much more

 

Ecotourism is a growing trend around the world, and visitors are flocking to our gulf-coast mecca to take part in responsible, expansive, fun-filled outings. Fishing, hiking, biking, nature photography, swimming, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, boating and bird-watching are just some of the countless opportunities for eco-tourists to explore Florida nature in Panama City Beach Fla.

Below are some points of interest for visitors looking to take advantage of all the natural wonders under the sparkling Florida sun. Florida state parks, nature trails, state forests, top Florida beaches and more.  See our watersports and fishing sections for more information on these specific activities.

St. Andrew’s State Park has been named the #2 beach in the nation, according to Trip Advisor. Leisure travelers can bask in the sun on over one-and-a-half miles of open beach at this Florida state park, or water lovers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and canoeing. Two fishing piers, a jetty, 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.

Take a boat tour to pristine 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.

Greenways and Trails is a system which spans the entire island of Panama City Beach with some 25 miles of rugged trails for the active traveler.  Gayle’s Trails connects to St. Andrews State Park on the east end of the beach, and to the 3,000-acre Florida nature park Pines & Ponds on the west end of the beach.  The trail head is located at the corner of Hwy. 79 South and Hwy. 98.

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. 

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.

So whether you're spending the day at St. Andrews State Park Florida, or jumping on a jet ski, enjoy the natural bounty of Panama City Beach!