Visit Wakulla County’s Natural Attractions

Unspoiled by over-commercialized attractions and devoid of a hectic atmosphere, Wakulla County provides a natural getaway. Rich in history, wildlife and adventures that include hiking, biking, kayaking, boating, fishing and snorkeling, Wakulla County is the destination for families to enjoy quality time together.

The Gulf Specimen Aquarium in Panacea is the perfect place for kids to get close and personal with local marine life at this friendly non-profit aquarium that boasts the largest array of touch tanks in the continental United States. Open touch tanks are filled with a diversity of crabs, sea urchins, starfish, and sea cucumbers. Glass aquariums house a collection of seahorses, octopuses, and jellyfish. Larger tanks feature sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and saltwater fish.

Wakulla Springs is another must see while visiting Wakulla County. Families can enjoy a boat ride around this first magnitude spring which is one of the longest and deepest in the world. Swimming is also popular during the summer months with a bathhouse and concessions. Overnight lodging is available at the historic Wakulla Lodge.

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge provides a beautiful backdrop for hiking. Its landscape encompasses a broad sweep of salt marshes and tidal flats, brackish impoundments, cabbage palm hammocks, and pinelands with great opportunity for exceptional views of birds and wildlife.
Water lovers will love a trip to T-n-T hideaway. Located on the picturesque Wakulla River on Hwy. 98, T-n-T Hide-a-way has been providing river or coastal paddling expedition for four decades. They offer kayak, canoe and SUP rentals, instructions, shuttles and fishing trips, guided eco-tours and their most popular the manatee observation tour all led by certified professional guides.

Delicious seafood can be found at every turn. Posey’s Steamroom & Oyster Bar, Angelo & Son’s, Ouzt’s Too Oyster Bar, Mad Anthony’s Waterfront Grille, Riverside Café, and Spring
Creek Restaurant are just a few of the fresh seafood options. Hamaknockers BBQ and the Sopchoppy Pizza Company are also local favorites.

Wakulla County has numerous RV camp and vacation rentals as well as the Best Western Plus Inn & Suites, the Magnuson Hotel, Wakulla Lodge, Shell Island Fish Camp and Motel, and the Sweet Magnolia Inn Bed & Breakfast. For more information on accommodations, please visit http://www.visitwakulla.com/Accommodations.

Questions or requests for additional information should be directed to Diane Bardhi, Wakulla County TDC, P. O. Box 67, Panacea, Florida 32346 (850) 926-0919 ext. 716.