Perdido Key, which means “Lost Key” in Spanish is a narrow strip of white beaches and aquamarine waters where beachcombing, fishing and sailing are ways of life not just recreation choices. Perdido Key’s unspoiled beaches are the island’s main attractions. Undulating wind built sand dunes are dotted with sea oats, bunch grass and beach grass. Venture to the eastern end of the island to the Gulf Islands National Seashore where swimming, snorkeling, fishing, boating, bird watching and hiking are popular pastimes.

Tee time, anyone? Two exceptional golf courses are easily accessible, the Perdido Bay Golf Club, a links style course, and Lost Key, a target-style design fashioned by Arnold Palmer designated as an Audubon Signature Cooperative Sanctuary golf course. Other preferred activities on Perdido Key include dolphin watching excursions, moonlight cruises and sailing tours.

Perdido Key is also known for its out-of-the-ordinary celebrations such as the New Year’s Polar Bear Dip and the Interstate Mullet Toss. For a non-stop celebration, drop by the legendary Flora-Bama Lounge on Perdido Key, a beachside oyster bar, beach bar and Gulf Coast cultural landmark.

Pensacola is located only 15 miles from Perdido Key offering a wealth of day trip options to attractions like Historic Pensacola Village, the National Museum of Naval Aviation, Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum and Fort Pickens, a fort built in 1834 and once occupied by federal troops during the Civil War.