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In some way, in a world the place we crave the most recent gizmos and devices, the outdated world of the Mayans has been trending in recent times regardless of being right here method earlier than our time.
Their fascinating tradition and architectural marvels caught my eye, too, as I had simply visited some extremely preserved Mayan ruins in Copan Ruinas, Honduras, myself.
Whereas there have not been any official Mayan ruins found within the U.S., there are some fascinating historic ruins attributed to our personal timelines that always go ignored.
And what higher backdrop whereas perusing remnants of our previous than pristine white sand alongside vibrant emerald inexperienced waters?
Fairly than comply with the crowds to Miami, Orlando, and Siesta Key on your subsequent Florida getaway, escape to the hidden paradise of Fort Pickens this fall.
Dare We Say A ‘Poor Man’s Tulum’?
Residence to stunning seashores and American antiquities, Fort Pickens is a uncommon sight to behold.
Typically overshadowed by dozens of extra standard Florida locations, this sliver of paradise on the very western tip of Pensacola’s Santa Rosa Island goes comparatively unnoticed until you are searching for it out.
In different phrases – it is a bit off the crushed path, however not a treacherous journey and you will undoubtedly be rewarded regardless.
Boasting Caribbean-esque white sands and shimmering inexperienced waters, Fort Pickens is properly value a go to in the identical sense as Tulum, providing a novel mix of pure magnificence and fascinating historic websites.
No, there isn’t any fashionable arts scene, a model new airport, or divine Mexican meals, however the place else are you able to go to a pleasant U.S. seashore with such well-preserved ruins?
Reply: not many!
Maybe South Carolina’s Fort Sumter or one other Florida counterpart, St. Augustine, however it’s protected to say Fort Pickens is subsequent stage!
It is Okay To ‘Spoil’ Your Seashore Trip
Fort Pickens’ significance dates again properly over a century.
Serving as a preferred landmark these days, its former glory continues to captivate guests with its scenic coastal views and intrigue.
What was as soon as a stronghold within the American Civil Struggle, the grounds are nonetheless kempt and most constructions stay intact, making for superior photo-ops.
Fort Pickens’ job was to guard Santa Rosa Island all whereas stopping the enemy from infiltrating the bay and close by Navy yard.
The bottom covers roughly 200 acres, simply explorable earlier than or after time on the seashore. In the present day, it is overseen by the Nationwide Park Service, who ought to ask for a increase masking double obligation as each park rangers and tour guides.
Count on a walk-through of the remaining brick forts, a stroll alongside the barrier island, and even kayaking by the marsh.
It might not be Chichen Itza, however it’s very spectacular nonetheless.
In contrast to Gettysburg, do not anticipate tacky battlefield reenactments, despite the fact that The Battle of Santa Rosa Island befell right here in 1861.
Fort Pickens receives excessive reward on Google, holding an spectacular 4.8/5 score, the place one latest customer claimed, “…the fort is unimaginable. Nice seashores too, significantly better than the packed public seashore simply down the highway”.
Additionally, many who go to like to tough it by tenting underneath the celebs. Fort Pickens Campground holds 200 campsites solely charging $25 for admission along with the Gulf Islands Nationwide Seashore entry fees:
- $15 per particular person
- $20 per bike
- $25 per car
- $45 annual cross
A Blissful Seashore Escape Away From Florida’s Typical Crowds
No resorts, no wild nightlife, no Disney characters – simply pure bliss alongside an genuine paradisal seashore.
Okay, the resorts would possibly be a pleasant contact, however in any other case, all of us love as a lot area as attainable on our seashore holidays.
Fall tends to see crowds shrink anyway, however Fort Pickens is rarely elbow-to-elbow like many coastal hotspots across the globe.
Right here, you may discover soft white sand and many areas with out a footprint. And better of all of the waters are clear and the climate is heat even in fall (assume mid 70’s to 80’s)
Some Gulf seashores can turn out to be brown and murky, uninviting for a pleasant swim. That is not the case right here.
In all chance, you may be driving right here from Pensacola.
Though, the Pensacola Bay City Ferry gives enjoyable weekend rides.
If driving, you may need to enter Langdon Seashore as your vacation spot since that is probably the most swimmable space, geared up with ample parking, restrooms, and seashore showers.
Security Tip: lifeguards are solely on obligation from Might – September!
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Opinions expressed listed below are the creator’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, resort, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, accepted or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included throughout the submit.
