When Floridians think of the Panhandle’s coastline, it calls to mind something quite vivid: the natural beauty and serene vistas along US Highway 98, which winds its lazy way along the gulf shore, bathed in blue sky and salt spray. Midway between Apalachicola and Panama City sits one of its gems, a classic “Old Florida” town of 1,000 souls—Mexico Beach.

Beloved by family vacationers for its timeless, untroubled spirit, the city has its own nickname for its place on the map. They call it “The Unforgettable Coast.” It’s a getaway free of crowds and chaos. There’s no traffic (there aren’t even stoplights) and the vibe is deliciously lowkey.

Incorporated only in 1967, Mexico Beach has thrived by keeping development in check while delighting generations of guests with its small-town charm. Its spirit of family-friendly sun and fun abides in an enjoyable range of attractions and activities. 

Beachin’ It

Sunbathers can enjoy a full five miles of beachfront as they squish glistening sand between their toes and gaze out on the tempting blue waves of the gulf. Everyone loves the mellow tides. Thanks to the city’s “Leave No Trace” ordinance, Mexico Beach has successfully maintained the beach’s unspoiled state and encouraged ecological awareness, which keeps the environment as inviting and enjoyable for tourists as it does for the sea turtles that nest nearby. 

Sunken Secrets

Thanks to its clear waters, natural reefs and nearly 300 artificial reefs, Mexico Beach is a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers. The Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association, which installed the structures almost 30 years ago, hosts GPS data for each of them on its website. Divers can witness a kaleidoscopic spectrum of colorful marine life from translucent glowing jellyfish to many kinds of starfish and maybe encounter a bottle-nosed dolphin or two (more than 10,000 cruise the gulf). There also are historical man-made artifacts under the surface including multiple shipwrecks. Among the most notable is the Vamar, a 170-foot steamer that once sailed to Antarctica before it sank to its current resting place, 25 feet under, in 1942. Diving excursion charters are easily available.

Cast a Line

Whatever kind of fish you’re hoping to catch, you can probably find it off Mexico Beach. 

King mackerel, Spanish mackerel, grouper, red snapper, mahi-mahi, cobia, pompano, wahoo and redfish are among the many species that swim off the coast, making it a top destination for professional and amateur anglers alike. Charter a boat and go for a cruise, guided by a seasoned captain, or gas up your own and launch out from Mexico Beach Marina. And if you’re feeling competitive, check in for the annual MBARA Kingfish Tournament, a wildly popular contest that attracts hundreds of anglers.

Inside Scoop

There are many ways to navigate the waves, and you can find them all with ease at Mexico Beach’s local outfitters and rental shops. Grab a kayak and a buddy and go for an adventure. Rev things up with a wave runner or take it nice and easy on a paddle board. And if you just want to lay out with some light reading and a slushy refreshment, beach chairs and simple shade canopies are the way to go for a breezy, easy afternoon.

No Reservations

One of the most refreshing aspects of Mexico Beach is its completely local assortment of food options. There’s nary a chain restaurant or fast-food joint in sight. Instead, a handful of family-owned establishments serve up surfside classics like grilled shrimp, fish tacos, raw oysters and bay scallops. The town even has its first craft beer emporium. Forgotten Coast Brewing Co. offers a lineup of ales and IPAs that honor the scenery (with names like “Marsh Sunset” and “To the Beach”) and pair with an array of spicy snacks on offer.

Retro Stays

There’s something undeniable about a classic Panhandle beachfront motel. It’s that ineffable throwback charm, harking to the days when surfside escapes to the Sunshine State really became a thing and these sand-flecked lodgings with their splashy decor and sparkling swimming pools offered a literal window onto paradise. Mexico Beach boasts three such spots along Highway 98: Driftwood Inn, El Governor Beachfront Resort and Gulf View Motel. For a more private stay with a choice of amenities, rental units abound, and if you prefer the great outdoors there’s the Mexico Beach RV Park and the El Governor RV Park, awaiting you, your gang and your Winnebago.

---

To plan your perfect Mexico Beach getaway, mexicobeach.com.

---