Perdido Key Florida Information

Its name means "Lost Island" in Spanish, but  Perdido Key Beach  has been discovered by visitors who enjoy its natural beauty and laid-back style.

Dr. Beach, a.k.a. environmental scientist Stephen Leatherman, Ph.D., has consistently rated Perdido Key in the top 20 beaches in the nation. In fact, 63 percent of this barrier island on Pensacola's western side is protected from development by the Gulf Islands National Seashore and the State of Florida. Venture to Big Lagoon State Park and check out the view from its 40-foot observation tower and enjoy its nature- and water-related activities on the Intracoastal Waterway.

Known for its out-of-the-ordinary celebrations, Perdido Key is home to a polar bear dip, interstate mullet toss, and an international songwriters festival, among others. While you're here, be sure to mix a little birdwatching with your golf at Lost Key Golf Club, a designated Audubon Signature Cooperative Sanctuary golf course.

For more details, call the Perdido Key Visitors Center at 800-328-0107 or 850-492-4660.

Beaches on Perdido Key

1. Big Lagoon State Recreation Area - About 10 miles west of Pensacola, this 698-acre area offers a varieety of water- and nature-related activities on the Intracoastal Waterway. Open 8 a.m. to sunset daily, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, 850-492-1595.
2. Gulf Islands National Seashore - About 13 miles west of Pensacola, this portion of the national park includes the eastern part of the key and Johnson Beach. Picnic, day-use and primitive camping available. Open 8 a.m. to sunset daily, off S. R. 292, 850-934-2600.
3. Perdido Key Beach State Recreation Area - About 15 miles west of Pensacola on S. R. 292, this 247-acre area borders the Gulf of Mexico. Open 8 a.m. to sunset daily, 850-492-1595.

Always swim in lifeguarded sections. Please see our Swim Safely information.

The above information was taken from the Official Visit Pensacloa site, so for more great Pensacola Beach information and up to date information about local events, be sure to check out the Visit Pensacloa site.