8 Can't Miss Attractions Near Perdido Key to Put on Your List

8 Can't Miss Attractions Near Perdido Key to Put on Your List

Nicole Harms
Nicole Harms9/8/2025

Florida’s barrier islands are one of the hottest spots to see wildlife. Whether you love to scuba dive, snorkel, or bird watch, you’ll find that these islands offer plenty of options. Perdido Key is a great base for these types of activities.

The wetlands and estuaries are full of all types of land and water animal life. If wildlife isn’t what you love, Perdido Key’s public beaches offer opportunities for fun in the sand and sun. Here are some of our favorite Perdido Key attractions to add to your trip.

1. Big Lagoon State Park

A quiet boardwalk and pavilion overlook the water at Big Lagoon State Park, a nature lover’s paradise with trails, kayaking, and birdwatching.
Photo Credit: @fl.stateparks

12301 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola, FL 32507

If you want to see nature but get away from the actual beach, then plan a day at Big Lagoon State Park. It is on the Intracoastal Waterway instead of the Gulf, so the natural features are different here. It is the starting point of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail and the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

Like most of the Key’s state parks, it provides options for swimming, fishing, and boating as well. You can use the boat ramp to access the Intracoastal Waterway from this park. Overnight camping in the pine flats is also available.

2. Artworks Local Art and Gifts

Artworks Local Art and Gifts in Perdido Key showcases handmade coastal décor, unique art pieces, and souvenirs by local artists.
Photo Credit: @artworkslocalart

13700 Perdido Key Drive, Unit 124, Pensacola, FL 32507

Bring home a special gift from your trip to Perdido Key by shopping with local artists. Artworks Local Arts and Gifts is a must. You can shop for photographs, paintings, carvings, ceramics, and pottery made right on the island.

This shop has art from over 30 local artisans, and the inventory constantly changes. Each visit will show you a different selection of art pieces. If you want to try your own creative work, you can sign up for an art class at the gallery.

3. Johnson Beach

Pink skies glow over Johnson Beach in Perdido Key, casting a warm light on the waves and sea oats along the sugar-white sand.
Photo Credit: @epcotexplorer

Johnson Beach Road, Pensacola, FL 32507

Johnson Beach is Perdido Key’s section of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. On this stretch of beach you can swim under the eyes of lifeguards. The park has restrooms and other public facilities.

The beach has seven accessible boardwalks, which make it easy to get from the parking lot to the sand. You can also take a walk along a 1/2 -mile pedestrian trail. There are beach rentals available and outdoor showers to rinse off after your day in the water.

4. Blue Dolphin Cruises

Guests enjoy a scenic ride aboard Blue Dolphin Cruises in Perdido Key, a family-friendly way to spot dolphins and take in the waterfront views.
Photo Credit: @Blue Dolphin Cruises

10121 Sinton Drive, Pensacola, FL 32507

Spotting dolphins is one of the best things to do in Perdido Key because so many live in the area. The captains at Blue Dolphin Cruises know how to find the spots dolphins love. One of these cruises is an excellent way to see them in their natural habitat.

While you cruise next to the playful animals your tour guide will teach you about Perdido Key's history and landmarks. The Perdido Key area is a prime spot for dolphins, which is why a dolphin cruise should be on your list of things to do.

5. All Jack’d Up Charters

A man fights a strong catch while deep sea fishing with All Jack’d Up Charters in Perdido Key, as the sun sets over the Gulf waters.
Photo Credit: @All Jack’d Up Charters

13420 Gongora Drive, Perdido Key, FL 32507

The fishing in the Gulf is unmatched, and Perdido Key has plenty of different species to choose from. All Jack’d Up Charters gives you the chance to book a private fishing charter to take advantage of this. Each charter is personalized to the desire of the guest, so you can head to the exact part of the Gulf where you want to fish.

This charter service focuses on providing family-friendly fishing experiences. The crew will educate you on how to fish and will keep their language appropriate for all ages. All charters include the necessary gear for a great day of fishing.

6. Lost Key Golf Club

The lush fairways and sand traps of Lost Key Golf Club sit beside a tall resort building, offering golfers a championship course surrounded by natural beauty.
Photo Credit: @Lost Key Golf Club

625 Lost Key Drive, Pensacola, FL 32507

Lost Key Golf Club perfectly combines the nature of Perdido Key with the luxury of an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course. This was the state’s first course to receive certification as an Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary. While you golf on the 18-hole par 71 course, you’ll be surrounded by natural plants and wildlife. The course has sea dwarf paspalum grass, which provides a quality play experience.

7. Littleheads Kayak Rentals

A colorful row of kayaks sits ready by the shoreline at Littleheads Kayak Rentals in Perdido Key, perfect for exploring the calm waters and scenic bay.
Photo Credit: @Littleheads Kayak Rentals

14140 River Road, Pensacola, FL 32507

Renting a watercraft while in Perdido Key makes sense, and Littleheads Kayak Rentals is our favorite option. This vendor offers rental and guided tours, including fishing tours, so you’ll find something you enjoy.

The dock sits on a saltwater bay that’s full of dolphins and rays. Visitors who rent kayaks here see dolphins every single day. If you’re traveling with your pet and the pet enjoys time on the water, you can bring them with you to this pet-friendly attraction.

8. Perdido Key State Park

Sea oats sway along the white sandy beach at Perdido Key State Park, with turquoise waters stretching into the horizon. A peaceful spot for swimming, sunbathing, and nature walks.
Photo Credit: @fl.stateparks

15301 Perdido Key Drive, Pensacola, FL 32507

Park your car and head down the boardwalk to get to the beach when you visit Perdido Key State Park. On either side of the boardwalk, you'll see dunes with sea oats. After a short walk to the beach, you can spend your day swimming or playing in the sand.

This park is the habitat of the endangered Perdido Key beach mouse. It's also common to see a sea turtle swimming off the shore. If you like birding, the shorebirds that nest in the grasses are fun to watch.

Planning a trip to Perdido Key starts with choosing the right place to stay. Our partners at Perdido Realty Vacations have beautiful condos for rent on the Key. They also provide local insight into the best things to do in Perdido Key as you plan your trip.

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