5 Fun Activities for Kids in Perdido Key

Kids at the Zoo

Perdido Key, FL, with all of its natural beauty, has something for everyone.  The outdoors naturally draws in all age groups for relaxation and adventure, but the community of Perdido Key also has special activities for the kids in our lives.  Not only do our local restaurants, attractions, and venues have playgrounds, but here are 5 fun activities for kids to enjoy while staying and playing along the Gulf Coast:             

 1.  Play at the Beach

         Build a sand castle, look for crabs or skim in the surf.  Local stores have plenty of beach toys to keep everyone having fun in the sun.

  2.  Walk/ bike ride through one of the state or national parks:

Gulf Islands National Seashore (Johnson Beach Rd, Perdido Key, FL)

Perdido Key State Park (15301 Perdido Key Drive, Perdido Key, FL)

Gulf State Park (20115 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores, AL)

     3.  The Wharf has dining, shopping and family fun! (4830 Main Street, Orange Beach, AL)

Farris Wheel (112ft Tall), Games, Laser Tag, Amphitheatre, and Cinemas

     4.  National Naval Aviation Museum (1750 Radford Blvd, Pensacola, FL)

Flight Simulators and IMAX Theatre

5.  Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo (1204 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL)

Education, Explore, and Animal Encounters

 

Visit Area Information to learn more about the communities along the gulf coast or call us to find out about seasonal activities and festivals!

Frisbee on the Beach

Coastal Water Conditions & Currents

 Coastal Current

Everyone loves the beach!  Some make Florida their annual vacation destination, and others make it a permanent home.  Regardless of how we get here or how long we stay, the pristine beaches, warm weather, and coastal lifestyle make Florida and the emerald shores of the gulf coast an oasis for all of us. 

What we all enjoy most is the sand between our toes while walking down the beach or on our way through the refreshing salt water for a swim or paddle.  And although we always see the coastal flags and signs, many of us walk or drive by dismissing their meanings.  When planning a day or event at the beach we all need to be aware of the tide conditions, currents, and marine life.  These conditions can change throughout the day, however, being aware will help you plan your events and keep everyone safe. 

Warning Flags Normally at the entrance of every state park, is a colored flag, accompanying the United States flag, which provides the current water hazard level.  These flags are also displayed on some public beach access areas and other coastal areas with high traffic.  This flag is your first indication of the water conditions and can be seen from a distance.  The medium hazard flags are often dismissed but just about everyone takes notice of the double red flag or the purple flag.  We associate these two with the opportunity to see massive swells or exciting marine life.

Rip currents are extremely powerful and there are not any signs to indicate their current conditions or force however signs are frequently displayed along the Florida shores to create awareness.  Rip currents are narrow channels of rapidly moving water rushing from the shore towards the open water.  There is no simulation for this type of strength and fighting a current is not an option.  In order to get a better understanding of rip currents and how to properly respond, please see the signs displayed in your area and become familiar with their normal course. 

Taking the time to recognize these signs and becoming aware of the local water conditions will only make your time spent on the beach more enjoyable and desired by everyone.  This is even more important when vacationing on the gulf coast or purchasing a waterfront home.  Check with your Realtor to receive additional information on the Gulf of Mexico and local waterways.

Big Lagoon State Park

View from Big Lagoon State Park

Even though Florida is primarily known for its remarkable beaches, Florida state parks are a treasure of their own.  Big Lagoon State Park is located on the mainland, just North of Perdido Key, separated by the Intracoastal Waterway.  The park is 655 acres of natural beauty filled with flourishing vegetation, all sizes of wildlife and outdoor activities for everyone.

For ease of exploring, the park is navigated with boardwalks and nature trails, surrounded by mature pine and oak trees, saw palmettos, and saltwater marsh.  An observation tower at the East Beach provides a stunning view overlooking Big Lagoon, the Intracoastal Waterway and across to the Gulf Island National Seashore.  Along the way, you will see various types of wildlife.  Osprey and many other birds migrate through the park and rumor has it that an alligator has moved into Long Pond.

With a one of a kind amphitheater and multiple pavilions throughout, Big Lagoon State Park makes for a great outdoor location for family gatherings and larger events.  The amphitheater will accommodate a few hundred guests and provides a stage and lighting while the pavilions are ideal for picnics, relaxation and shade.  Play grounds and additional facilities are situated so that regardless of age, everyone will enjoy their day!

Big Lagoon State Park has become a hotspot for fishing and canoeing as the park has prime access to the Intracoastal and the hidden waterway that connects to Grand Lagoon.  This Park has it all, camping facilities, boat ramp, extra amenities, and all of the outdoor adventure you could ask for.  The enjoyment at Big Lagoon State Park will be endless!