Aaaaaaaah…the Emerald Coast. Sounds exotic, doesn’t it? And expensive? And far away? Well, it’s none of those things.

The Emerald Coast is the section of northwestern Florida and southern Alabama that extends along the Gulf of Mexico - an area of silky white sand beaches that runs roughly from Mobile to Apalachicola.

How did it get it’s name? If you ask a local, they’ll likely tell you it’s due to the clear, emerald-green waters they enjoy. My bet is a crafty marketer needed something to call it other than the Redneck Riviera, as it’s also known.

The area is a driving destination for vacationers from all over the southeast and offers something for everyone. However, it’s important that you do a little research before you pack, as different areas of the coast have very different personalities.

Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is one of the most affordable and best known vacation resorts along the Emerald Coast and offers a wide variety of accommodations, from cozy cottages to high rise luxury condos. Be certain to get knowledgeable, professional help in choosing the vacation rental type and location that’s right for you to insure either a quiet family vacation or a more exciting spring break experience. There’s something for everyone in Panama City Beach!

Destin
This is a more sedate, upscale area for an Emerald Coast vacation. It occupies the tip of a peninsula laden with golf courses. Destin is a world famous deep-sea fishing and sea-shell collecting area. It offers respite for families and others who are interested in a quiet and relaxing trip to the beach. Your best bet for lodging along this stretch of shoreline is a Destin vacation rental, where you can enjoy all the comforts of home at a reasonable price. Condos, villas, townhomes and private beach houses are all available and many offer most of the amenities of a hotel. You get much more room and privacy than a hotel at about the same price.

Apalachicola
This is the place you want to go if you’d like to experience Florida the way it used to be. The laid back atmosphere compliments the historic district, which is undergoing revitalization. This is also where you should go if you love fresh seafood-especially oysters- and want to eat it everyday. Nearby are miles and miles of undeveloped beaches, a national forest, nature preserves and several state parks.

Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores, at the opposite end of the Emerald Coast from Apalachicola is a family destination resort for southern Alabama, particularly nearby Mobile. It offers a variety of beaches, along with boat rentals and fishing and natural areas preserved in a pristine state. Kids love seeing the nesting sea turtles that visit each year.

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Categories: Alabama, Florida.
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