The Explorer Passport invites you to get outside and explore at your own pace. With 15 outdoor locations and 4 achievement levels, you’ll check in as you visit each stop, track how much of the Gulf Coast you’ve explored, and unlock new milestones along the way. It’s a simple, rewarding way to stay active, try new places, and make the most of our incredible outdoor backyard.

What you can expect:

• 15 unique outdoor locations to explore
• Hiking trails, boardwalks, waterways, and beaches
• Family-friendly and self-paced adventures
• Explore by foot, bike, or paddle

The Explorer Passport is perfect for individuals, families, or groups looking for a fresh way to enjoy the outdoors—whether you’re a longtime local or someone eager to explore more of the area. Each location offers a unique experience, from scenic overlooks and quiet wetlands to historic sites and peaceful coastal spots. Every check-in is another opportunity to slow down, explore deeper, and connect with the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.

Along the way, the passport will guide you to places such as Big Lagoon State Park, the Edward Ball Nature Trail, Arcadia Mill, and more. These destinations are an invitation to step outside your routine and experience familiar places in a new way—or discover spots you may have driven past for years.

Whether you’re chasing miles, moments, or memories, the Outdoor Gulf Coast Explorer Passport gives you plenty of reasons to get outside—and keep coming back for more. Start your passport today and see how many places you can explore.

Kayak & Paddleboard Launch

The kayak launch at Bruce Beach provides access to the Pensacola Waterfront. It is a short walk from the parking area, so it’s recommended to have assistance or a cart for your kayak. The launch is handicap accessible. It is in a seagrass area, which is a pleasant spot for paddling and can help shield you from the wind.

Our adventure began at The Lodge, where we biked the pedestrian bridge to Lake Shelby. We hydrated, snapped photos, and plotted our course at Lake Shelby. We then took the lake crossing trail, an elevated boardwalk connecting the picnic area to the campground and the eastern lakeside trails. After exiting the boardwalk, we went north on Gopher Tortoise Trail to Campground Trail. On the Campground Trail, we stopped at a bridge where a small crowd had gathered to watch a stare-down between an alligator and some turtles. We continued on the Campground trail to Catman Trail, where we took a break at the Forest Pavilion and Butterfly Garden.

Our Bike Route

The Forest Pavilion and Butterfly Garden

The Forest Pavilion and Butterfly Garden are a perfect setting to rest and take in the park’s beauty. At the Forest Pavilion, you can picnic, refill water bottles, explore the gardens, and even test your bouldering skills. After recharging, we continued our ride on Catman Trail. At the end of Catman Trail, you can exit the park, head north to jump on Rattlesnake Ridge Trail, or head south on Cotton Bayou Trail. We opted to exit to get some food and coffee.

Bike Break and Coffee and Lunch At Local Cafes

We headed north on the bike path along Orange Blvd. to Canal Road and went west for a short distance to Cosmo’s Restaurant and BuzzCatz. After a delicious lunch of fish tacos at Cosmo’s, we got iced mochas at BuzzCatz Coffee Shop and sat in the grassy courtyard outside the cafe. It was terrific; we sat on the lawn and enjoyed the beautiful spring air, coffee, and company.

After coffee, we headed back down Canal Rd. to Orang Blvd., where we entered the park on Rattlesnake Ridge. We stayed on Rattlesnake Ridge to Gulf Oak Ridge, which takes you on windy and hilly trails through an upland forest with a stunning lookout on the ridge. This is my favorite section, and we have biked it with nonelectric and electric bikes. Having self-assistance in this section is a plus.

Views and Rest Breaks at Gulf Oak Ridge

The Gulf Oak Ridge is a good break point. We stopped and walked out on the observation deck that looked out from the ridge. Get your camera ready because this location is excellent for getting good shots. After taking in the view from the ridge, we continued biking until we arrived at Gopher Tortoise Trail and headed south toward home base. The Gopher Tortoise Trail brought us back to the lake crossing, where we concluded our e-bike adventure through Gulf State Park.

Adventure Checklist for a Memorable and Safe Adventure

If you plan a visit, here is our Adventure Checklist to make a memorable and safe adventure:

• Bikes
• Helmet
• Sunscreen
• Lock
• Backpack
• Phone for photos and navigation
• Stop by the visitor center for a map

About the Biria Folding Bikes Provided by Bikes Plus

Bikes Plus on 9th in Pensacola provided us with Biria folding bikes, which are great if you have limited room for transportation. We fit both bikes in the back of our Toyota Forerunner. We used the Series 5 on the Step-through 3.0. Both bikes are self-assist and have a hand throttle if you choose to use that. Top speed is around 20 mph.

Park Amenities:

• Walking Paths
• Park Benches
• Picnic Tables
• Unofficial Kayak Launch

So, if you’re looking for a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature, visit the city park overlooking Seville Harbour and Pensacola Bay.

Where To Launch a Kayak

Bartram Park is a good option if you want a place downtown to access the water. The launch is a small open area at the back of the park in Seville Harbour.

Kayak Trip Ideas

We’ve unofficially named the kayak route from Bartram Park through Project Greenshores the William Bartram Kayak Trail. This kayak trail is one of our favorite urban bayfront paddling opportunities. The trail will take you past the living shoreline site B and the original living shoreline known as Project Greenshores.

To paddle the trail the trail, launch from the small access area on the south side of the park. Paddle northeast in Pensacola Bay until you arrive at the living shoreline. We recommend you paddle on the inside of the inlets. If paddling south of the estuary, use caution as submerged breakwater can hang up a kayak at certain tides.

Once you reach Muscogee Wharf, use caution when navigating the point to access site A of Project Greenshore.

William Bartram Kayak Trail Route

Pontoon boats have spacious decks, comfortable seating, and versatility, offering an incredible opportunity to explore the waterways at your own pace. In this article, I’d like to share six ideas of places to explore when renting a pontoon boat on Pensacola Beach.

1. Discover Big Sabine Bay

Just east of Portofino on Pensacola Beach is a beautiful stretch of undeveloped coastline ready for exploring. Renting a pontoon boat allows you to chart your course and discover Big Sabine Bay and the Gulf Islands National Seashore, which has miles of beach stretching between Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach. 

If you bring a kayak or paddleboard, you can explore Big Sabine Bay’s shallow estuary and canals. Or pull up and anchor at the beach, enjoy uncrowded beaches, and go for a refreshing swim.

2. Explore Gulf Islands National Seashore

One of the most breathtaking natural wonders along the Gulf Coast is the Gulf Islands National Seashore. I’ve already mentioned the area between Pensacola Beach and Navarre. Still, the natural area continues west of Pensacola Beach to Fort Pickens and east of Perdido Key. If you like to get away from the crowds and enjoy endless beaches, then a pontoon boat can get you to some amazing places to drop, anchor, and enjoy the day.

3. Take a Self-Guided Dolphin Tours

One of the most exciting experiences you can have while boating in Pensacola Beach is encountering dolphins in their natural habitat. With a pontoon boat rental, you can embark on your self-guided dolphin tour. Cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway in Santa Rosa Sound or Pensacola Bay, you’ll have the chance to spot these magnificent creatures leaping and playing in the waves. I’ve spent much of my life in powered and human-powered boats, and it’s always a thrill to see dolphins swimming by. 

4. Take a Self-guided Fishing Adventures

For those who enjoy angling, renting a pontoon boat opens up fishing opportunities. The Pensacola Bay Area boasts an abundance of game fish, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and more. Grab your fishing gear, hop aboard your rented pontoon boat, and fish in the pristine waters for a day. With ample space on the deck, you can comfortably cast your lines and reel in your catch of the day while enjoying the peaceful serenity of the open water.

5. Embark on History at Visit Deadman’s Island

Deadman’s Island is one of the popular self-guided kayaking tours we offer, but this Island is also accessible by boat. Did you know the University of West Florida discovered historic ships and artifacts in Pensacola Bay, and Deadman’s Island is one of those locations? Deadman’s Island has been a popular place for locals and awaits you to explore. Deadman’s Island is a great place to swim, snorkel, or relax in the coastal breeze.

6. Go Camping in Paradise

If you are looking for a unique adventure, have you considered camping along the shoreline? You can pull up many places; even in some areas, you can pitch a tent along the coastline. Imagine waking up to the coastal sounds right outside your tent. Here are a few spots in the Pensacola Bay area you can do just that.

• Big Sabine Bay—There is a small primitive camping area at Big Sabine Bay, which is along the Florida National Scenic Trail.
• Deadman’s Island—Just off Gulf Breeze, there is a small, uncrowded Island where you can pitch a tent.
• Sand Island—Boat-in-backcountry camping is allowed in the Gulf Islands National Seashore on the east end of Perdido Key. You can get all the details here. This area is beautiful and popular with the locals. 

What are you waiting for? With a small boat, you can have an amazing experience exploring the coastline of Pensacola Beach and have freedom, adventure, and relaxation in one unforgettable journey. From exploring the enchanting Big Sabine Bay to venturing out to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, you’ll discover hidden corners of paradise only accessible by boat. With the added thrill of self-guided dolphin tours and the excitement of fishing adventures, renting a pontoon boat opens up possibilities for nature enthusiasts and those seeking leisurely days on the water. So, grab your sunscreen, gather your friends or family, and set sail for an unforgettable adventure on a pontoon boat in Pensacola Beach.

About This Page

Outdoor Gulf Coast has compiled a list of area outfitters we feel you will have the best experience with on your next Gulf Coast Adventure. To ensure your tour is a safe and memorable experience, we have carefully curated a list of trusted outfitters in the Pensacola Bay Area.

Please note that the links provided on this page are affiliate links, connecting you directly to these reputable tour providers. The booking is handled through individual providers. Rest assured, these outfitters prioritize your safety and enjoyment, offering professional guides and well-maintained equipment to enhance your dolphin tour experience.

We enjoy our coast and want to give our guests helpful information about getting outdoors. To continue to provide current information, we receive a small commission from bookings on this page.

Book your tour today and embark on an unforgettable adventure today!

Thank you for being so supportive!

The trail starts in the RV park next to the entrance of Whiting Field. The trailhead begins in an upland oak and pine forest and winds its way to beautiful wetlands where you can view a beaver home, beaver dam, pitcher plants and other wetland vegetation. One section of the trail will get up close to the beaver dam as you walk over the wetlands on an elevated boardwalk.

The trail is an interpretive trail with signs along the way to help identify different species of plants and wildlife.

Clear Creek Nature Trail is also a beautiful place to go birding. It is listed on the Florida Birding Trail and it is a great place to see Pine Warblers, Hermit Thrushes, Blue Herons and other species of birds.

Photos from hiking at Clear Creek

Map & Location of Clear Creek

Magda Village Rd, Milton, 32570
(850) 623-7602
call ahead for hours

Learn about other places to hike in the Pensacola area here.

In This Article

• The Coffee I Use
• Coffee Products
• Iced Mocha Recipe

Let me start with my go-to coffee, Amavida. Amavida is my coffee of choice (except when I roast). The roasts are excellent and packed full of flavor. Amavida is local to the Gulf Coast and uses the best-grade organic fairtrade coffee. They are a certified B Corporation, which means they meet rigorous social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency standards. 

Now on to the products. Below I’ve curated some great products for brewing coffee outdoors. We use all of these except the following:

• Non-electric Gooseneck Kettle – We have the electric one and love it. But if you are off-grid, you’ll need something to heat water without electricity.
•  Colman single burner: We use a larger Coleman stove. For mobility, the single burner would be a better include.

Side note: So that you know, we linked these products with Amazon affiliate links (not the Amavida coffee). Clicking these links and making a purchase is one small way to help support this website. 

More About These Coffee Products

JavaPresse Coffe Grinder

The JavaPresse Coffee Grinder is an excellent portable grinder to take with you on an outdoor adventure. This handheld burr grinder will allow you to grind at different grind sizes. Grind matters when it comes to good coffee, and a burr grinder is essential for good-tasting coffee. It takes a bit of time to grind the beans, so if you are grinding for a larger group, consider other options. Learn more / Buy

Aeropress Coffee Maker

I make coffee in my Aeropress almost daily. Once you dial in the right grind size, amount of coffee, and water, this device makes delicious coffee. Clean-up is also super easy on this, creating a perfect outdoor coffee product. Learn more / Buy

Hydro Flask

This coffee mug is perfect for cooking coffee hot on a cold day. The photo below was taken on a cold day and was still hot after about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

This photo was taken at Juniper Creek. I highly recommend taking a hike there.

If you like coffee and outdoors let us know what coffee gear you enjoy!

Iced Mocha Recipe

Ingredients:

20 grams fine ground coffee
60 ml hot water
2-3 tbsp Ghirardelli Chocolate

How to prepare:

1. Place grounds in AeroPress
2. Pour boiling water into AeroPress
3. Stir
4. Extract coffee out of AeroPress
5. Mix coffee and chocolate
6. Add Milk, stir, add ice and enjoy.

*This article includes affiliate links to Amazon. If you enjoy this site, please use the links to make purchases… It’s an excellent way to help support this website.

The sail has vertical battens which makes it easy to roll up the sail without ever taking it off the mast. I can have these rigs set up in a matter of minutes. Just hook the boom on, roll out the sail, give tension to downhaul and outhaul and you are ready to hit the water.

This rig is great for beginners or advanced sailors wanting something quick they can rig for their Kona One or Windsurfer LT. Purchase your WindSUP sail package here.

Walking is an amazing outdoor experience with many benefits such as burning calories, strengthing your heart, boosting immune function, and even helping with creative thinking. If you are looking for a way to enhance your mood, walking can also help with that.

Enjoy Our List of Walking Paths

To help you discover walking paths near you, we’ve curated a list of places you can get out and walk.

Downtown Pensacola

Admiral Mason Park

Take a stroll at a beautifully landscaped park with views of Pensacola Bay and a stormwater pond that serves as a natural wetland habitat.

Learn more

Palafox Pier

Walk along the Pensacola Bayfront with views of Pensacola Bay, the Port of Pensacola and Palafox Marina.

Learn more

Community Maritime Park

Paved walking paths along the bayfront. Visitors will also enjoy open spaces, a playground, an amphitheater and a stadium.

Learn more

Corinne Jones Park

Located in the historic Tanyard neighborhood. Corinne Jones Park offers the surrounding community a place to play and enjoy active and passive recreation.

Learn more

East and Northeast Pensacola

Bayview Park

Located on beautiful Bayou Texar, Bayview Park has paved walking paths over rolling hills along the bayou.

Learn more

Edward Ball Nature Trail

The Edward Ball Nature Preserve is located on the University of West Florida campus. The trail is a half-mile boardwalk that weaves through the beautiful hardwood swamp of Thompson Bayou. 

Learn more

West Pensacola

Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve

Jones Swamp Wetland Preserve and Nature Trail is part of the Bayou Chico restoration project. It was created to protect Pensacola Bay. The preserve includes 1,300 acres within the Jones Creek Watershed.

Learn more

Marcus Bayou Boardwalk

This facility discharges reclaimed water into the Bayou Marcus receiving wetland system. The water is discharged along the bayou boardwalk. Many birds and other wildlife may be seen along the boardwalk. To walk to the end of the boardwalk and back is approximately 3 miles.

Learn more

Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park

The state park is a 4,290-acre preserve in northwestern Florida. Tar kiln Bayou includes a picnic area hiking trails and a small pier on Tarkiln Bayou. There is a half-mile long ADA boardwalk to Tarkiln Bayou.

Learn more

Innerarity Point Park

A beautiful park located on the Intracoastal Waterway. The park has beautiful oaks for shade, walking paths, playground equipment and a pier.

Learn more

Gulf Breeze Walking Paths

Wetlands Boardwalk & Trail

The Wetlands and Boardwalk Trail at Shoreline Park in Gulf Breeze is a must-see.

Visit the walking trail

Shoreline Park Walking Paths

Enjoy a leisurly walk through a coastal forest in on this walking trail at Shoreline Park.

Explore the trail

Pace and Milton Walking Paths

Arcadia Mill

Arcadia Mill hiking trails include a boardwalk, off-road trails and views of pond creek.

Learn more

Bagdad Mill Site Park

The Bagdad Mill Site Park, located in Bagdad, Florida. is a 21-acre park that enjoys views of the Blackwater River and Pond Creek.

Learn more