🌅 Chasing Sunrises & Sugar-White Sands

March 14, 2024

Exploring Florida’s Panhandle 🏖️

Our journey through the Deep South has led us here—where Gulf breezes carry whispers of history, adventure, and serenity. The Florida Panhandle welcomed us with moss-draped oaks, sugar-white beaches, and plenty of soul. Let’s dive into this leg of our road trip!

🚐 From Southern Roads to Gulf Shores

Louisiana to Florida: One Memory at a Time

After uncovering Louisiana’s Cajun flair, Mississippi’s Civil War echoes, and Alabama’s quiet quirks, we rolled into Florida with sandy dreams and RV tanks full of anticipation.

🏡 Eden Gardens State Park

Southern Elegance & Mossy Oaks 🌳

Tucked away in a coastal corner, Eden Gardens surprised us with its vintage charm:

• 🏰 The Wesley House—a lovingly restored 1897 mansion

• 🌿 163 acres of manicured grounds, shaded trails, and storybook oaks

• 📸 Perfect photo ops around every corner

Tip: Book the house tour early—slots are limited but we were told it was worth it.

🌀 St. Andrew’s State Park

A Comeback Story After the Storm 🏕️

Rebuilt after Hurricane Michael, St. Andrew’s State Park is a resilient beauty with:

• ⛺ 170+ campsites

• 🌊 1.5 miles of untouched, sugar-white beach

• 🐊 Nature trails teeming with life

We snagged a waterfront Harvest Host spot and greeted the sunrise barefoot on the beach—coffee in hand, hearts full. This moment? Pure magic.

⚠️ Gator Wisdom & Safety First

What the Visitor Center Taught Us 🐍🐾

Thanks to a helpful ranger chat, we learned:

• 🐊 Gators mostly ignore dogs, but avoid water edges during warm months

• 🐍 Snakes (venomous ones) pose a bigger concern—stay on trails

• 🧠 Safety isn’t fear—it’s awareness

Sadie got her walk, we got peace of mind, and everyone stayed dry (and alive).

⚓ Historic Harbor Towns & Local Flavor

Strolling Through St. Andrew’s & Panama City 🚤

From local shops to old piers, Panama City and St. Andrew’s offered:

• 🎣 Nautical charm rooted in fishing history

• 💨 Winds too strong for water play, but perfect for exploring

• 🍽️ A hidden gem: Uncle Ernie’s Restaurant—surprisingly fantastic food with a harbor view

Sometimes, rolling the dice on a local eatery brings the best memories.

📲 Florida Stories App

Walking Tours With a Side of History 🎧

Who needs a tour guide when your phone can narrate the town?With the Florida Stories app, we wandered streets, learned shipwreck tales, and listened to local lore—our own pocket historian.

Free, fun, and way more interesting than a brochure.

🥾 Back to Nature: Trail Time & Water Play

Alligators, Herons & Kayaking Vibes 🚣‍♂️

We explored two standout trails at St. Andrew’s:

• Gator Lake Trail: Peaceful, scenic, and yes—gator-friendly

• Heron Pond Trail: Secluded with birdsong and natural beauty

Meanwhile, the Hubs took to the bayou with his kayak while I ran “support ops” (AKA shuttle duty and snack prep).

✨ What We Learned Along the Way

From Oaks to Oceans, This Place Had Lessons 🌎

Our biggest takeaways:

• 🏞️ State parks offer history, quiet, and unforgettable views

• 📚 Visitor centers = local goldmines

• 🎧 Walking apps add depth without breaking the bank

• 🐾 Pet safety = smart travel

• 🔄 Balance planning with spontaneity

This stretch of our road trip reminded us why we chase these moments—to grow, connect, and soak in the unexpected.

🕳️ Next Up: Caverns & Kayaks

Florida State Caverns & Merritt’s Millpond Await 🦇🚣

Coming soon:

• ✨ Underground magic with stalagmites and mystery

• 💧 Peaceful paddling on crystal-clear spring watersStay tuned for our next chapter of adventure, nature, and reflection.

💬 Your Turn!

What’s Your Favorite Panhandle Memory? 🌴

Visited the Panhandle? Got a sunrise story, a wildlife tip, or a beach nobody knows about?Drop it in the comments or tag us on Instagram—we’d love to connect with fellow travelers.

From seafoam trails to quiet coves, the Florida Panhandle proved that big adventures often live in small, soulful places.

🛣️ Until next time—keep your wheels turning and your eyes on the horizon!