Birdwatching, nature trails, eco-tourism:
A hiking, biking, walking trail passes directly in front of the complex.
Within 30 minutes by car, in each direction, lie preserved nature parks with hiking, biking and canoe trails galore. Some offer guided tours. Sight the world's largest population of Red-Cockaded Woodpeckers in nearby open pine forests. Catch a glimpse of owls and other birds of prey. Fish in rare, coastal dune, freshwater lakes. Explore an active beaver dam. See the forest where the wood was grown to build the USS Ironsides. Hike through bogs of rare, protected pitcher plants and other exotic carnivorous plants.
The nearest are: Topsail Preserve State Park, Gulf Islands National Seashore's Naval Live Oaks Area, Timberlake Mountain Bike Trail System, Rocky Bayou State Recreation Area and Aquatic Preserve, the Florida National Scenic Trail actually begins nearby at historic Fort Pickens, Navarre Beach State Park.
Historic Pensacola, Historic Fort Pickens:
A one-hour drive west takes you to Historic Pensacola. Spanish conquistadores first sailed into Pensacola Bay in 1516. In 1719 the first small fortification was built at the site of Ft. Pickens. See the vestiges of Spain's colony here and learn about General Bernardo Galvez, the Spanish General considered a hero of the American Revolution for his military assistance in fighting the British army and navy right here in Pensacola. Also learn the history of hurricanes that have hit this part of Florida over the centuries.
Designer outlet paradise:
Shop till you drop--and save money too-- at the Silver Sands Factory Stores, just 5 minutes away by car. Banana Republic, Polo Ralph Lauren, BCBG, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, and more, more, more. See silversandsoutlet.com for a complete list and details. Destin Commons and Grand Boulevard at Sandestin Town Center also offer great boutiques.
Other Activities:
dolphin-watching