Apalachicola to Pensacola: A Scenic 3-Day Road Trip for Nature Lovers and Foodies

Day 1: Exploring Apalachicola

Apalachicola, Florida

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Place

Start your day with their famous crab cake omelet paired with a fresh orange juice.
Located a short 5-minute walk from most accommodation options.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

St. George Island State Park

Enjoy a morning of breathtaking views, beach walks, and wildlife encounters at this nearby natural haven.
Drive 15 minutes via County Road 300.
USD5, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Owl Café

Savor local seafood with a touch of southern charm at this cozy café known for its delicious shrimp tacos.
Return to Apalachicola, a short 15-minute drive.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Apalachicola River and Bay

Hop on a guided kayak tour through mangroves and estuaries, an excellent way to appreciate the local ecology.
Meet your kayak guide at the waterfront office, a 5-minute drive away.
USD50, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Apalachicola Historic District

Wander through charming streets lined with historic homes and boutiques, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
It's a 10-minute walk from the kayak launch point.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Raw Bar

End your day with a feast of fresh oysters and po' boys, overlooking the waterfront for a beautiful sunset.
A quick 10-minute drive from the historic district.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Scenic Drive to Destin

Destin, Florida

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Blue Parrot

Kick off day two with a delightful breakfast bowl packed with fresh fruits and granola.
Head back to The Raw Bar area for a short 20-minute drive.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Depart for Destin

Hit the road and soak in the beautiful coastal scenery as you travel to your next destination.
Take U.S. 98 West; drive time is about 1 hour.
N/A, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Henderson Beach State Park

Unwind at this pristine beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and opportunities for swimming and hiking.
Drive about 15 minutes from the highway exit.
USD6, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Crab Trap

Indulge in a crab boil meal, fresh from the Gulf, while enjoying a panoramic beach view.
A short 5-minute drive from the state park.
USD30, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Destin Harbor Boardwalk

Stroll along the boardwalk, where you can shop, explore local art, or enjoy a scenic boat tour.
It's about a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free to walk; tour prices vary., 2 hours

4:30 PM

Rent a Paddle Board

Experience the stunning emerald waters of Destin from a different perspective by paddle boarding.
Many rental shops are located along the harbor area.
USD25, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Marina Café

Enjoy a fancy dinner at this upscale restaurant—don’t miss their signature seafood paella.
Located on the waterfront, a short 5-minute walk from the harbor.
USD55, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Experience in Pensacola

Pensacola, Florida

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Another Broken Egg Café

Begin your final day with their renowned French toast paired with perfectly brewed coffee.
Depart from Destin, a 1-hour drive to Pensacola.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the National Naval Aviation Museum

Explore the world's largest naval aviation museum showcasing historical aircraft—perfect for history buffs.
It's a short 25-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Historic Pensacola Village

Step back in time as you wander through the beautifully preserved buildings dating back to Spanish colonial times.
Only a 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD10, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Fish House

Savor an award-winning blackened fish sandwich while enjoying stunning waterfront views.
Located on the bay, about 10 minutes away.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Relax at Pensacola Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun or taking a dip in the turquoise waters of this beautiful beach.
Just a 20-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Red Fish Blue Fish

Wrap up your trip with a casual yet delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood in a laid-back atmosphere.
Located on Pensacola Beach, just a 5-minute drive.
USD45, 1.5 hours
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