Mexico Beach, located on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, which is off the beaten path and offers a peaceful, untouched beach experience far removed from the hustle and bustle of the more commercialized areas of the state. This area of the state is often forgotten (thus the name!) and yet has some of the most beautiful coasts in the state.
When you drive into Mexico Beach, the super wide expanse of pure white beaches catches your eye on one side and the cute mom and pop shops, seafood restaurants and beach cottages lining the other side of the street.
It has a laid-back, small-town feel where you immediately feel at home, even if you’ve never been there before. The streets are quiet, the buildings low-rise, and there’s an absence of towering resorts or heavy commercialization.
The Beach
The highlight in Mexico Beach, of course, is the beach itself. Mexico Beach has one of the most pristine stretches of sand you’ll find on the Gulf Coast. The shoreline is wide, the sand is soft and white, and the water is a beautiful turquiose green that sparkles under the sun. On most days, the waves are gentle, making it a perfect spot for walking along the shoreline with your feet in the sand and warm waters.
What’s particularly unique about Mexico Beach is how uncrowded it feels, even in peak season. You can often find yourself with a large section of the beach almost to yourself. It’s a refreshing contrast to the packed beaches in more touristy areas like Destin or Panama City Beach.
Because it’s so undeveloped, Mexico Beach is an ideal spot for long walks along the shore, collecting shells, or just sitting back and enjoying the sunset. Speaking of sunsets, they are truly something special here. Every evening, the sky lights up with vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, creating a breathtaking scene that feels like a personal show just for you.
Fishing and Boating
Mexico Beach is a haven for anglers and boaters. Fishing is deeply rooted in the culture here, and whether you prefer shore fishing or heading out on a boat, there’s always an opportunity to reel in something exciting. The waters around Mexico Beach are rich with fish like pompano, flounder, and redfish.
For those who enjoy boating, Mexico Beach’s marina is a gateway to some of the best offshore fishing in the area. Charter boats are available for deep-sea fishing trips, where you can target larger species like grouper, snapper, and kingfish. The waters are calm and inviting, making it a great spot for both experienced anglers and beginners.
Hurricane Michael and Recovery
It’s impossible to talk about Mexico Beach without mentioning the impact of Hurricane Michael in 2018. The hurricane caused massive devastation, practically wiping out much of the town. However, the community’s resilience has been remarkable. Even though recovery has been slow, the spirit of Mexico Beach is still very much alive. Many buildings have been rebuilt, and while the town may look a little different today, the same laid-back, welcoming atmosphere remains.
As someone who’s visited both before and after the hurricane, it’s been incredible to witness the transformation. The new homes and businesses blend with the old charm of the town, and there’s a sense of pride in how far Mexico Beach has come in its recovery.
Exploring the Forgotten Coast
Mexico Beach is part of Florida’s Forgotten Coast, which lives up to its name by offering a truly tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience. This area, stretching from Mexico Beach to Apalachicola and beyond, is known for its untouched natural beauty and quaint, historic towns. If you’re staying in Mexico Beach, I highly recommend taking a day trip to explore nearby spots like Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, Apalachicola and St George Island. Each of these places has its own unique charm and is well worth the visit.
Why Visit Mexico Beach?
If you’re looking for a vacation destination that offers pure relaxation and an authentic Florida beach experience without massive crowds, Mexico Beach is the place to go. It’s a place where you can truly unplug and enjoy the simpler things in life lik sun, sand, and sea.
