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Perdido Key: Florida’s Hidden Gem for Nature and Relaxation

Tucked away from Florida’s crowded beaches, this ‘Lost Island’ offers pristine parks, snorkeling reefs, and a slower pace. Why is it still a secret?

The image shows an old postcard of the Royal Poinciana Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida. It features a...
The image shows an old postcard of the Royal Poinciana Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida. It features a large building with windows, pillars, and a clock tower, surrounded by lush plants and trees, with a flagpole flying a flag in the background and a sky filled with clouds. At the bottom of the postcard, there is text.

Perdido Key: Florida’s Hidden Gem for Nature and Relaxation

Perdido Key, a 16-mile stretch along the Gulf of Mexico, offers a quieter and more budget-friendly holiday than nearby Orange Beach or Gulf Shores. Known as the 'Lost Island', it blends untouched nature with relaxed beaches and outdoor activities for visitors.

Over half of Perdido Key is protected as federal or state parkland, keeping its landscapes wild and undeveloped. The area’s nickname, 'Lost Island', reflects its secluded charm and natural beauty.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore a 6.5-mile multi-use path that winds through Perdido Key State Park. The route is ideal for biking, walking, or simply enjoying the coastal scenery. For water lovers, Johnson Beach—part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore—is a hotspot for shelling, swimming, and beachcombing. An artificial reef just offshore draws tropical fish and sea turtles, making it a favourite for snorkelling and diving. Golfers have two top courses to choose from: Perdido Bay Golf and Lodging, which includes an 18-hole championship layout, and Lost Key Golf Club, designed by the Arnold Palmer Group. Both offer well-maintained greens and scenic views. History buffs can visit nearby Fort Pickens on Pensacola Beach, a preserved Civil War-era fort. The site adds a cultural touch to the area’s natural attractions.

Perdido Key provides a mix of outdoor adventures, from hiking and golfing to diving and beach relaxation. Its protected parks, affordable stays, and less crowded shores make it a standout destination for travellers seeking a peaceful Gulf Coast getaway.

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