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Someway, in a world the place we crave the most recent gizmos and devices, the previous world of the Mayans has been trending in recent times regardless of being right here approach 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 missed.
And what higher backdrop whereas perusing remnants of our previous than pristine white sand alongside vibrant emerald inexperienced waters?
Slightly than comply with the crowds to Miami, Orlando, and Siesta Key in your subsequent Florida getaway, escape to the hidden paradise of Fort Pickens this fall.
Dare We Say A ‘Poor Man’s Tulum’?
House to lovely seashores and American antiquities, Fort Pickens is a uncommon sight to behold.
Typically overshadowed by dozens of extra in style 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 positively be rewarded regardless.
Boasting Caribbean-esque white sands and shimmering inexperienced waters, Fort Pickens is nicely value a go to in the identical sense as Tulum, providing a novel mix of pure magnificence and fascinating historic websites.
No, there is no 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, nevertheless it’s secure to say Fort Pickens is subsequent stage!
It is Okay To ‘Break’ Your Seashore Trip
Fort Pickens’ significance dates again nicely 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 buildings 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. As we speak, it is overseen by the Nationwide Park Service, who ought to ask for a increase protecting double obligation as each park rangers and tour guides.
Anticipate a walk-through of the remaining brick forts, a stroll alongside the barrier island, and even kayaking by means of the marsh.
It is probably not Chichen Itza, nevertheless 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 happened right here in 1861.
Fort Pickens receives excessive reward on Google, holding an spectacular 4.8/5 ranking, the place one current 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 below the celebs. Fort Pickens Campground holds 200 campsites solely charging $25 for admission along with the Gulf Islands Nationwide Seashore entry fees:
- $15 per individual
- $20 per bike
- $25 per car
- $45 annual move
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 perhaps be a pleasant contact, however in any other case, all of us love as a lot area as doable 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 and not using 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 grow 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 presents enjoyable weekend rides.
If driving, you may wish to enter Langdon Seashore as your vacation spot since that is probably the most swimmable space, outfitted 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, permitted or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included inside the put up.