Are you a nature lover? Do you wish to explore the secrets of the Florida Panhandle’s wildlife during your upcoming trip to 30A? If so, you’re in luck because this blog was written for you! We’ll give you more information about the kind of animals and marine species that inhabit our beautiful region and give you tips on how to get even closer to it! Read on to learn about our favorite state parks and other natural spots, and start planning a wonderful trip to 30A today.
You’ll love our exclusive, free Vacation Guide if you're a planner. We created this tool to give you a closer look at 30A and its surrounding areas. In it, we included our favorite local restaurants, shops, museums, events, outdoor adventures, and much more.
The Florida Panhandle’s Local Wildlife
The Florida Panhandle is a magical place to discover, whether it’s your first time or your 100th. This tucked-away portion of the state is one of the least populated and boasts some of the most stunning natural areas in the South. The region has rivers, gorgeous beaches, swamps, dunes, and tidal marshes, making it a scenic sanctuary for various species. 30A’s wildlife consists of:
- Otters
- Alligators
- Marsh rabbits
- White Tail Deer
- Florida Black Bear
- Armadillo
- Wild Hog
- Red Fox
- Bobcats
- Coyote
- Snakes & Lizards
- Turtles
- Florida Panther (very rare)
Birds of the Florida Panhandle
The area of 30A offers birdwatchers and nature lovers a fantastic opportunity to observe more than 250 bird species. Many species of the Florida Panhandle birds are year-round residents, while others are migratory. Here are a few of the species that you may catch a glimpse of during your visit:
- Birds of Prey: Osprey, Eagle, Hawks
- Songbirds: Painted Bunting, Cardinals, Florida Scrub Jay
- Shorebirds: Piping Plover, Brown Pelican, Turns & Gulls
- Wading Birds: Great Blue Heron, Egrets, Roseate Spoonbill
Aquatic Animals & Marine Life
The ocean plays a huge role in the Florida Panhandle’s wildlife, especially along the Emerald Coast’s splendid beaches. More fish and mammals are under the water than you might suspect, making it even more exciting to discover. From sea turtles to dolphins and an incredible variety of fish, 30A’s waters are filled with wonders. Northwest Florida is one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet, and as soon as you dive underwater, you’ll understand why!
- Sharks: Sandbar Sharks, Bull Sharks, Atlantic Sharpnose Sharks, Blacktip Sharks, Nurse Sharks
- Fish: Redfish, Tarpon, Cobia, Jack Crevalle, Flounder, Speckled Trout, Red Snapper, Bluefish
- Marine Mammals: Bottlenose Dolphin, Manatee
- Jellyfish: Atlantic Sea Nettle, Moon Jellyfish, Pink Meanie, Cannonball Jellyfish, Portuguese Man O' War
- Sea Turtles: Leatherback, Kemp’s Ridley, Green, Loggerhead
Where You Can See 30A’s Wildlife
We’ve told you more about what you can see in 30A, but where can you go to make it a reality? The Florida Panhandle has breathtaking state parks where you can walk around and spot all the animals we mentioned. St. Andrews State Park is one of our favorites. The former military base features 1.5 miles of beach and dunes and is a fabulous spot to see seabirds, alligators, and even deer.
Our local nature trails are also a fun way to discover the local wildlife. A network of 30A pathways for walking and biking offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to immerse themselves in the area’s diverse ecosystems and picturesque landscapes. There is an abundant opportunity for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors during their 30A vacation.
Do you wish to explore the ocean more? Why not jump in? 30A offers a wide array of diving classes or snorkeling adventures that take you to the sea life you seek. You can even pair it with an exploration of a shipwreck! If it’s dolphins you wish to see, we can’t recommend Shell Island Cruises enough! Their tours are fully narrated and take you around the beaches of Shell Island to watch these majestic animals at play. You can even pull fish and crab traps! Boat tours through our waterways are a fantastic way to watch wildlife and learn about our area. Inshore fishing, offshore fishing, and even kayaking are all excellent ways to engage with various bird species and aquatic animals.
Find an Adagio 30A Home Base for Your Wildlife Adventure
Now that you’re an expert in Florida Panhandle’s Wildlife, it’s time to make your trip a reality. Pack your bags, invite your friends and family, and find the perfect vacation home right here and right now through Adagio. Did you know we offer some of the most high-end and cozy condo units in 30A? Some even have gorgeous views of the Gulfside. Picture yourself sipping on your morning coffee with the sight of the waves crashing in the distance. There’s nothing like the view of 30A’s turquoise water to start the day in a good mood. Our amenities are also top-notch. You’ll love our giant pool, BBQ areas, and even gyms! Don’t wait for another second. 30A is calling, and Adagio awaits you.
