Somehow, in a world where we crave the latest gizmos and gadgets, the old world of the Mayans has been trending in recent years despite being here way before our time.
Their fascinating culture and architectural marvels caught my eye, too, as I had just visited some incredibly preserved Mayan ruins in Copan Ruinas, Honduras, myself.
While there haven’t been any official Mayan ruins discovered in the U.S., there are some fascinating historical ruins attributed to our own timelines that often go overlooked.
And what better backdrop while perusing remnants of our past than pristine white sand along vibrant emerald green waters?
Rather than follow the crowds to Miami, Orlando, and Siesta Key for your next Florida getaway, escape to the hidden paradise of Fort Pickens this fall.
Dare We Say A ‘Poor Man’s Tulum’?
Home to beautiful beaches and American antiquities, Fort Pickens is a rare sight to behold.
Often overshadowed by dozens of more popular Florida destinations, this sliver of paradise at the very western tip of Pensacola’s Santa Rosa Island goes relatively unnoticed unless you’re seeking it out.
In other words – it’s a bit off the beaten path, but not a treacherous journey and you’ll definitely be rewarded regardless.
Boasting Caribbean-esque white sands and shimmering green waters, Fort Pickens is well worth a visit in the same sense as Tulum, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and captivating historical sites.
No, there’s no trendy arts scene, a brand new airport, or divine Mexican food, but where else can you visit a nice U.S. beach with such well-preserved ruins?
Answer: not many!
Perhaps South Carolina’s Fort Sumter or another Florida counterpart, St. Augustine, but it’s safe to say Fort Pickens is next level!
It’s Okay To ‘Ruin’ Your Beach Vacation
Fort Pickens’ significance dates back well over a century.
Serving as a popular landmark nowadays, its former glory continues to captivate visitors with its scenic coastal views and intrigue.
What was once a stronghold in the American Civil War, the grounds are still kempt and most structures remain intact, making for awesome photo-ops.
Fort Pickens’ job was to protect Santa Rosa Island all while stopping the enemy from infiltrating the bay and nearby Navy yard.
The base covers roughly 200 acres, easily explorable before or after time at the beach. Today, it’s overseen by the National Park Service, who should ask for a raise covering double duty as both park rangers and tour guides.
Expect a walk-through of the remaining brick forts, a stroll along the barrier island, and even kayaking through the marsh.
It may not be Chichen Itza, but it’s very impressive nonetheless.
Unlike Gettysburg, don’t expect cheesy battlefield reenactments, even though The Battle of Santa Rosa Island took place here in 1861.
Fort Pickens receives high praise on Google, holding an impressive 4.8/5 rating, where one recent visitor claimed, “…the fort is incredible. Great beaches too, much better than the packed public beach just down the road”.
Also, many who visit love to rough it by camping under the stars. Fort Pickens Campground holds 200 campsites only charging $25 for admission in addition to the Gulf Islands National Seashore entry fees:
- $15 per person
- $20 per motorcycle
- $25 per vehicle
- $45 annual pass
A Blissful Beach Escape Away From Florida’s Typical Crowds
No resorts, no wild nightlife, no Disney characters – just pure bliss along an authentic paradisal beach.
Okay, the resorts would maybe be a nice touch, but otherwise, we all love as much space as possible on our beach vacations.
Fall tends to see crowds shrink anyway, but Fort Pickens is never elbow-to-elbow like many coastal hotspots around the globe.
Here, you’ll find soft white sand and many areas without a footprint. And best of all the waters are clear and the weather is warm even in fall (think mid 70’s to 80’s)
Some Gulf beaches can become brown and murky, uninviting for a nice swim. That’s not the case here.
In all likelihood, you’ll be driving here from Pensacola.
Although, the Pensacola Bay City Ferry offers fun weekend rides.
If driving, you’ll want to input Langdon Beach as your destination since this is the most swimmable area, equipped with ample parking, restrooms, and beach showers.
Safety Tip: lifeguards are only on duty from May – September!
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