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Somehow, in a world where we crave the latest gadgets and gizmos, the ancient world of the Mayans has become popular in recent years, even though this world existed long before our time.
Their fascinating culture and architectural wonders also caught my attention, as I had just personally visited some incredibly preserved Mayan ruins in Copan Ruinas, Honduras.
Although no official Mayan ruins have been discovered in the US, there are some fascinating historical ruins attributed to our own timelines that are often overlooked.
And what better backdrop to reviewing remnants of our past than pristine white sand along vibrant emerald green waters?
Instead of following the crowds to Miami, Orlando and Siesta Key for your next Florida vacation, 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.
Often overshadowed by dozens of popular Florida destinations, this slice of paradise on the far western tip of Santa Rosa Island in Pensacola relatively unnoticed unless you’re looking for it.
In other words, it’s a little off the beaten track, but not a treacherous journey and you’ll certainly be rewarded either way.
With Caribbean-esque white sand and sparkling green water, Fort Pickens is well worth a visit in the same sense as Tulum, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and captivating historical sights.
No, there’s no trendy art scene, a brand new airport or delicious Mexican food, but where else can you visit a beautiful American beach with such well-preserved ruins?
Answer: not much!
Maybe Fort Sumter in South Carolina or another Florida counterpart, St. Augustine, but it’s safe to say Fort Pickens is next level!
It’s OK to ‘Ruin’ Your Beach Vacation
The significance of Fort Pickens goes back a long way over a century.
Today it is a popular landmark and its former glory continues to captivate visitors with its picturesque views view of the coast and intrigue.
What was once a stronghold in the American Civil War is still maintained and most of the structures remain intact great photo ops.
Fort Pickens’ job was to protect Santa Rosa Island while preventing the enemy from infiltrating the bay and the nearby Navy Yard.
The base covers approximately 200 hectares, easy to explore before or after a visit to the beach. Today it is overseen by the National Park Service, which would have to ask for a pay increase to cover dual duties as park rangers and guides.
Expect a stroll through the remaining brick forts, a stroll along the barrier island, and even kayaking through the swamp.
It may not be Chichen Itza, but it is very impressive anyway.
Unlike Gettysburg, don’t expect any bland battlefield imitations, even though the Battle of Santa Rosa Island took place here in 1861.
Fort Pickens gets a lot of praise on Google and has a impressive rating of 4.8/5where a recent visitor claimed: “…the fort is incredible. Great beaches too, much better than the busy public beach down the street”.
Also, many visitors like to rough it out by camping under the stars. Fort Pickens Campground has 200 campsites that charge just $25 for entry next to the Gulf Islands National Seashore entrance fees:
- $15 per person
- $20 per motorcycle
- $25 per vehicle
- Annual pass $45
A blissful beach escape, away from the typical Florida hustle and bustle
No resorts, no wild nightlife, no Disney characters – just pure bliss along a authentic paradise beach.
Okay, the resorts might be a nice touch, but otherwise we all like to have as much space as possible during our beach vacations.
Fall tends to see the crowds shrink anyway, but Fort Pickens is never elbow-to-elbow like many coastal hotspots around the world.
Here you will find soft white sand and many areas without footprints. And best of all waters are clear and the weather is warm even in the fall (think mid 70s to 80s)
Some Gulf beaches can become brown and cloudy, making them uninviting for swimming. That is not the case here.
In all likelihood you will drive here from Pensacola.
Although, the Pensacola Bay City Ferry offers fun weekend rides.
If you’re driving, you’ll want to enter Langdon Beach as your destination, as this is the most swimmable area, equipped with ample parking, toilets and beach showers.
Safety tip: lifeguards are only on duty from May to September!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
