Celebrate The Holiday Season In Style At Christmas In Panacea

visitwakulldev on November 21, 2017

The 13th annual Christmas in Panacea is just around the corner. This year’s festivities are on Saturday, December 2nd and begin at 4:00 PM in beautiful Woolley Park, on the banks of the Dickerson Bay.

Snow in Florida? Why not?!

Most Floridians rarely expect to see snow in their native state, and especially not before winter officially begins in late December. But the Christmas in Panacea celebration goes all out in order to give everyone a chance to play in the white flakes.

Snow machines will be up and running from the beginning of the festival at 4:00 PM, and will continue until things begin to wind down at 8:00 PM. Whether you hail from a climate that sees snow all season long, or you’re a lifelong Floridian who cherishes every chance to experience it, you and your family will definitely want to get out there and make some snow angels this year.

Take in the festive entertainment all evening long

The snow machine is just the beginning when it comes to fun activities at Christmas in Panacea. The kids will have plenty to keep them busy, as there will be several free games, kid-specific activities, and a bounce house on site.

You’ll also have the chance to enjoy live entertainment all night long, and browse the wares of the many arts and crafts vendors that will be set up at the event. Free popcorn will also be available so you can enjoy a snack while you take it all in.

You have to take some time to check out the SeaMobile provided by the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory in Panacea. This state-of-the-art traveling mobile aquarium features touch tanks, monitors with Blu-Ray players, and even species of marine life that children can pick up.

Kick off the season with the annual Christmas Parade

Make sure you leave yourself enough time to grab a spot alongside the Coastal Highway before 6:30 in the evening, because that’s when the spectacular Panacea Christmas Parade begins. Locals will don their festive best and ride down the road in floats with plenty of lights, holiday decorations, and a dash of Christmas cheer. The parade is a Wakulla County holiday tradition, and it’ a sure sign that it’s time to start getting ready for the most wonderful time of the year.

Get ready for a season of wonderment in Wakulla County

Between the Christmas in Panacea celebration, the lights and decorations across the area, and the typically temperate weather, the holiday season truly is a special time to be in Wakulla County. In most places around the country, this is the time when people begin to stay inside for more of the day to escape the bitter cold. But in Wakulla County, it’s a great time to get out there and explore all of the natural wonders of our area. When you visit Wakulla County for Christmas in Panacea, we hope you’ll choose to stay for awhile this holiday season and explore more of this beautiful land.

Thankful For Wildlife In Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on November 17, 2017

There’s nothing like a personal encounter with nature to remind us that we should be thankful for all that our planet has given us. The amazing diversity of life throughout Wakulla County is an integral part of this area, and there are many places where you can get a first-hand view of these species.

Looking to the skies

Birdwatchers and ornithology enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise when they come to Wakulla County. Because of the diversity of our natural environment, including an abundance of rivers, lakes, coastline, and forests, a wide array of different avian species call our county home. Some of them live in Wakulla County throughout the year, and others can be spotted during specific seasons as a part of their migration patterns.

One of the premier places for bird watching and photography in the county is the stunning St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is home to the north-south migratory bird flyway, so you’re likely to catch a variety of different species as they make way to their summer or winter homes. The refuge is also ground zero for the monarch butterfly migration in early autumn, and you might catch majestic eagles and osprey nesting in the trees throughout the spring.

A wonderland of marine life

Waterways are central to the environment of Wakulla County, and the marine species that call this area home are a reflection of the importance that the lakes, rivers, springs, and ocean have to these lands. Wakulla Springs State Park is one of the most notable areas for marine species viewing, as the park offers glass-bottom riverboat cruises throughout the day when the water clarity is high. You may also spot a manatee swimming through the waters of the park between October and January.

The Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea is also a place where you and your children can interact with aquatic animals and learn about their role in the ecosystem as well. This lab features numerous touch tanks, and showcases many species that are unique to the North Florida coast.

An incredible forest ecosystem

You might not want to spend all of your time near the water, however, because there is a remarkable number of land animal species that live throughout many areas of Wakulla County as well. This region is home to some dense woodland areas, where you might catch a glimpse of animals such as white-tailed deer, feral hogs, and bobcats.

Take some time to explore the massive Apalachicola National Forest, where you are permitted to hike anywhere within. If you’re lucky in the fall, you just might spot a wild turkey roaming the forest floor.

This November, enjoy the beauty of nature in Wakulla County. As the Florida heat begins to cool off, now is the perfect time to appreciate and be thankful for the outdoors. Stay with us awhile and enjoy restful nights away from the big city or bright lights.

5 Reasons to Plan a Family Vacation to Wakulla

visitwakulldev on November 13, 2017

Family vacations are important rituals, but it can often be difficult to find a destination that will thrill the kids and satisfy the parents alike. In Wakulla County, the entire family can experience the many natural wonders of our land, and find time to relax a bit as well.

Interact with the touch tanks at the Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory

Parents are always looking for activities where their kids can learn about the world around them and have a blast at the same time, and the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Panacea fits that description perfectly. The facility houses a working marine laboratory where ongoing research is performed, including a sea turtle rehabilitation program.

It’s also a unique interactive nature center that is designed to educate guests about the diversity in the Wakulla County marine ecosystem. Some of the most popular attractions are the touch tanks, where you can touch the glass that houses live marine animals.

Get lost in the beauty of the natural surroundings

This county is teeming with beautiful natural areas and amazing parks, but what makes Wakulla County so unique is the incredible diversity of the natural lands here. It’s possible to hike along thick, wooded trails in the Apalachicola National Forest, view lush, open meadows on a drive through the Big Bend National Scenic Byway, and put your feet in the Gulf of Mexico on the coastal trail—all within several miles of each other.

Get up-close-and-personal with the wildlife at Wakulla Springs

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, known affectionately as Wakulla Springs, is one of the crown jewels of of Wakulla County. This state park is home to a diverse selection of aquatic, terrestrial, and avian species, so be sure to bring your camera. Autumn is also a great time to watch for manatees swimming in the river or the spring, so keep an eye out for this iconic Florida marine mammal.

Marvel at the abundance of the stars

Urban and suburban sprawl are an everyday reality for most of the population of the U.S. now, and light pollution has drastically reduced the visibility of the cosmos all over, especially on the east coast. Wakulla County, however, is one place where you can still see the stars shine brightly at night. In fact, according to the Bortle Dark-Sky Scale, our area rates between a 2 and 3, with 1 being the darkest and 9 being the most light pollution.

Treat your family to a homestyle meal

There’s nothing better on a vacation than gathering together with your friends and family and enjoying a great meal. In Wakulla County, we have dozens of fantastic, independently-owned restaurants where you can relax during your journey. Whether you’re looking for fresh local seafood, a traditional southern buffet, or even fine dining, you’ll find it here during your travels.

Plan your trip today

Ready to plan that Wakulla family vacation? Get started today by booking your accommodation, downloading our Visitor’s Guide, or by checking our pre-planned itineraries online.

The First St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Tour of the Season

visitwakulldev on October 24, 2017

In a guest post by Don Morrow, he shares his findings of the first St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Tour of the season. It’s time to get down to St. Marks and go birding.

The first St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge tours of the season took place on a sultry Fall day. This is a transitional time; those migrants that pass completely through our area are finishing up, while the winter resident species are coming in. I had five duck species today and eight this week. I’ve had Raccoon, Deer, Coyotes (calling) and a Black Bear this week.

Adding in some early morning recreational birding today I logged 71 species. Some highlights of the day were:

  • Double Dikes
  • King Rail & Sora (calling predawn to the North)
  • Large cloud of Tree Swallows in the early morning
  • Vermillion Flycatcher (male hanging in the area for the winter)
  • Stony Bayou I
  • Plovers (Black-bellied and Semipalmated)
  • Greater Yellowlegs
  • Willet
  • Ruddy Turnstone
  • Sandpipers (Western & Least)
  • Dunlin
  • SB Dowitcher
  • Terns (Caspian & Forster’s)
  • Stony Bayou II
  • Wood Duck
  • Northern Pintail
  • Blue-winged Teal
  • Northern Shoveler
  • American Wigeon
  • Merlin

We had a female Bobolink along the levee separating Mounds Pool I and III. Over the last few days I’ve been getting Catbirds, Phoebes, Marsh & House Wrens, Swamp & Song Sparrows along the levee edges. I’ve had Kestrel and Peregrine Falcons and also lots of cool butterflies.

The temperature is about to decrease and bird diversity at the refuge is about to increase. The winds following the front should bring down other ducks, Yellow-rumped Warblers, RC Kinglets and lots of other avian goodies. We’re Americans. This is your refuge. As soon as the front passes, get down to St. Marks and go birding.

Good Birding

-Don Morrow

Your Guide to Hiking in Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on October 23, 2017

Wakulla County is well-known as The Natural Place To Be, and there are few activities that are more natural than a simple hike in the wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned backwoods hiker or a novice who just wants to take a walk down a path, Wakulla County has numerous trails on which you can scratch your outdoors adventure itch. All you need to get started is some water and essential hiking gear, and you can be on your way to exploring stunning scenery that isn’t accessible by car.

Florida National Scenic Trail

The Florida National Scenic Trail is one of the most treasured natural areas in the country, and it serves as a perfect microcosm for the ecological diversity that is one of Florida’s hallmarks. The trail runs approximately 1,400 miles in total length, 75 miles of which pass directly through Wakulla County.

In particular, the trail passes near the towns of Sopchoppy and St. Marks, as well as through a portion of the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. This part of the Florida National Scenic Trail provides great opportunities for viewing a variety of different species of wildlife, including waterfowl and land animals. Because this trail transitions from heavily-wooded forest area to salt marshes along the coast, it’s important to bring adequate sun protection and insect repellent.

Apalachicola National Forest

Be sure to bring your binoculars and a birding book when you go for a hike through the Apalachicola National Forest, because this expansive protected area is home to some of the best wildlife viewing in Florida. This is also the largest forest in the state, so you will have plenty of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easily-accessible short paths to extensive backpacking opportunities (including the famous Bradwell Bay Wilderness, located with Wakulla County). Hiking is permitted anywhere in the park, but be careful to follow proper safety guidelines, including informing someone of your backpacking plan and bringing fresh water.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Wakulla Springs State Park may not have the abundance of trails you’ll find in the National Forest, but the trails there are teeming with stunning views and opportunities to see diverse groups of flora and fauna. The springs upon which the park is built support an intricate ecosystem that makes for a truly unique hiking experience. There is a 9-mile nature trail that runs through the park, as well as additional trails that lead to Cherokee Sink and through primordial cave systems.

More more trails to explore

These three areas are just a few of the numerous locations in Wakulla County that are perfect for hiking. If you’re visiting to explore one of these beautiful natural landmarks, extend your stay in one of our many friendly and affordable accommodation options and head even deeper into the world of hiking in Wakulla County.

Celebrate National Seafood Month in Wakulla County

visitwakulldev on October 5, 2017

October is National Seafood Month, and between festivals, markets teeming with fresh seafood, and world-class fishing, the locals of Wakulla County know how to celebrate in style. Check out the following ways that you can make the most out of National Seafood Month 2017.

1st Annual Cluster Shuck Oyster Fest

This year, Panacea Waterfronts Florida is hosting the premiere edition of the Cluster Shuck Oyster Fest, and shellfish lovers from all across the region are already anticipating this exciting event. This festival is all about showcasing the incredible farm-raised local oysters that reach their peak in the autumn months.

There will be an abundance of raw oysters on-the-half-shell available for you to savor, but chefs from throughout the region will also be preparing some unique oyster dishes that are sure to excite your palate.

If you’re a beer aficionado you know that nothing goes better with a plate of oysters than a cold brew, so there will be excellent beers on hand for you to sample as well. Be sure to head to Wooley Park in Panacea on Sunday, October 22nd from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and make the Cluster Shuck Oyster Fest one of your new annual traditions!

St. Marks Stone Crab Festival

Gulf seafood fanatics await the arrival of stone crab season every autumn, and there’s no better way to mark its arrival than by attending the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival. On Saturday, October 28, 2017, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, you’ll have your chance to enjoy plenty of stone crab claws that are fresh-caught from the Gulf waters.

In addition to the stone crab bounty, there will be a variety of other food options, high-quality arts and crafts from local vendors, and live music and entertainment throughout the day. It’s going to be a fantastic fall afternoon for the whole family. Head down to the heart of St. Marks for plenty of crab claws and fun.

More great ways to celebrate the bounty of the Gulf of Mexico

Once these festivals are over you still have the opportunity to commemorate National Seafood Month in Wakulla County. Fresh seafood is an important part of our local culture, history, and economy, and you can find great seafood to cook or serve in numerous independent markets scattered throughout the county.

Or, if you prefer to hit the water and catch seafood yourself, check out all of the incredible opportunities for fishing (freshwater and saltwater) on our beautiful Gulf coast. Local outfitters and charter companies have everything you need to get started, just make sure you follow all regulations and take safety precautions when you’re on the water.

However you choose to celebrate National Seafood Month, we hope you’ll stay for awhile in Wakulla County, and discover more about our unique connection to the ocean.

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge 2017 Monarch Butterfly Festival

visitwakulldev on October 3, 2017

For nature lovers, the annual fall monarch butterfly migration is one of the most memorable events of the year. Wakulla County is directly in the path of the southerly migration towards the winter warmth of central Mexico, and the occasion is commemorated by the annual Monarch Butterfly Festival held in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.

Monarch butterfly migration patterns

During the summer season, monarch butterflies populate all portions of the U.S. and parts of southern Canada. However, when temperatures begin to drop they migrate south to warmer climates where they will hibernate until the spring.

Most of the monarchs that spend the summer west of the Rocky Mountains simply make the trip straight down to Southern California, while those that are on the eastern side of the Rockies head down to central and southern Mexico. For the monarchs located on the eastern seaboard, this means a long trip of approximately 2,500 miles, much of which passes along the Gulf coast or directly across the Gulf of Mexico itself.

The St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Monarch Butterfly Festival

Because of the nature of their route, large numbers of monarchs traverse the Florida panhandle during the fall, including Wakulla County. Locals often know that autumn has arrived when they begin to see the majestic orange insects arrive in droves.

In celebration of this spectacle of nature, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge organizes an annual Monarch Butterfly Festival where spectators can view the migration up-close-and-personal. This year’s festival will be held on Saturday, October 28 from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM. In addition to wildlife viewing opportunities there will educational demonstrations, wildlife exhibitions, and other entertainment throughout the day. Admission to the festival is free, and those who are interested in volunteer opportunities should contact Lori Nicholson or Robin Will at the Refuge (850-925-6121).

Volunteer monarch tagging opportunity

Another opportunity for those who can’t wait to see the monarch butterflies in their element is the annual counting and tagging project held by the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. This project is set to begin on Saturday, October 14 and will continue every Saturday through November 25.

The tagging begins early in the morning before dawn, so you are advised to bring a headlamp or flashlight in order to see in the dark. No previous tagging experience is required to participate, so volunteers are welcome to arrive at the gates of the refuge at 6:00 AM on any of the Saturdays, or come and go as they please. Most tagging sessions last between 1.5 and three hours, depending on the number of monarchs in the area.

Also, please note that you are asked to not use bug spray if you want to handle the monarchs, and it is recommended you bring footwear that you don’t mind getting wet. This is a tremendous opportunity for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. Email David Cook at david.cook@myfwc.com for more information, or if you’d like to be a part of this incredible project.

5 Things to do this Fall in Wakulla

visitwakulldev on September 22, 2017

Fall is a wonderful time of year to explore all that Wakulla has to offer, so if you’ve been thinking of visiting once summer winds down, you’re sure to have a great time. As October and November draw near, temperatures reach comfortable levels, making it a great opportunity to spend some time outdoors. We’ve got five outdoor activities that are ideal for people of all ages to enjoy here in Wakulla; you might even be able to squeeze them in during a weekend stay!

Go Fishing or Hunting

Wakulla and the surrounding areas are famous for their fishing, and fall is a great time to fish along the waters of Wakulla County. From unique kayak fishing excursions to day fishing trips on The Forgotten Coast, you’ll find ample opportunities to cast your reel. For the hunters out there, hunting season for gray squirrels, turkeys, and deer begin around September 2nd. Just be sure you have a current deer permit!

Bike or Hike a Trail

If hunting and fishing aren’t your thing, consider biking or hiking along any of Wakulla’s beautiful nature trails, historic trails, and even extended hiking trails. At Ochlockonee River State Park there are trails for the whole family, ranging from beginners to more experienced hikers and bikers. The Florida National Scenic Trail runs through Wakulla County for 75 miles!

Watch the Wildlife of Wakulla

Fall is an absolutely beautiful time to come wildlife watching in Wakulla County. Whether you’re interested in seeing migratory birds, manatee, reptiles, or even Florida black bears, there are many parks and expeditions that will get you up close and personal with these fascinating creatures.

Attend an Event at the St. Marks Refuge

Wakulla County boasts a number of special events throughout the fall season, including dozens at the popular St. Marks Refuge. Check out their popular Monarch Festival on October 28th, or sharpen your photography skills during our Wildlife Photography 2-Tram Tour on November 19th. There are plenty of event opportunities to suit anybody’s taste!

Explore Wakulla Outdoors Horseback

Wakulla County loves its horses, and exploring the area on horseback is a memorable way to spend your fall. With many stables throughout the county, there are horses suitable for beginner riders all the way up to skilled experts. And with plenty of trails and quiet paths to choose from, you can explore at your own pace. Many of the stables here also offer lessons, pony parties for kids, barrel racing on select weekends, and much more.

Plan Your Trip

When the temperatures begin to cool off, the fun heats up in Wakulla County! Spend your fall making memories to last year-round, whether you’re interested in fishing, hiking, horse-riding, or just about any activity in between. Schedule your trip to Wakulla County today and check out our website to find out more about lodging, restaurants, and more.

Celebrate Incredible Gulf Seafood at the 2017 St. Marks Stone Crab Festival

visitwakulldev on September 20, 2017

St. Marks, a sleepy village situated where the St. Marks and Wakulla Rivers meet, comes alive and welcomes visitors far and wide to celebrate the 2017 edition of its famed Stone Crab Festival. On October 28th, the event kicks off the highly-anticipated opening of stone crab season. This year — the 20th for the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival — promises to be bigger and better than ever with something for everyone to enjoy.

What to Expect

Though the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival got its start way back in 1997 by the owners of Riverside Cafe, Dave Vallancourt and Stan West, this annual event has grown in scope to encompass the entire community. In addition to delicious stone crab-inspired recipes and culinary delights prepared expertly by local chefs, attendees can enjoy many other activities that appeal to people of all ages.

Activities for the Entire Family

Vendors selling items as diverse as handcrafted furniture, intricately-designed custom jewelry and more will be on hand for visitors to browse through at their own pace. Children’s activities designed to pique the interests of the littlest ones and educational displays aimed toward all ages can be enjoyed against a backdrop of lively musical entertainment. Regional acts, one-of-a-kind works and lots of delicacies make this festival a popular way to spend a beautiful day in October.

A celebratory parade that attracts participants from throughout the area with colorfully-dressed characters, as well as a touch tank that’s fun for everyone and face painting area, are just a few of the family-friendly activities in store for those who attend this charming and relaxing community festival.

Those who visit the 20th annual St. Marks Stone Crab Festival will also have the opportunity to take home a brand-new John Deere Gator. Only a limited number of tickets are sold with the proceeds going toward the funding of various charitable events throughout St. Marks and the surrounding area.

Plan Your Trip to Wakulla

A smoke-free event, the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival also does not allow pets to be present on the festival grounds. This is to help everyone feel comfortable and welcome during the daylong event. The St. Marks Stone Crab Festival runs from 10 AM until 6 PM and promises to be fun for everyone. Wakulla County has accommodations for the entire family, so join us for a weekend trip to the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival!

3rd Annual Wings and Wheels Fly-In Festival

visitwakulldev on August 24, 2017

The 3rd Annual Wings and Wheels Fly-In Festival is quickly approaching, and gearheads, aviators, and folks who are just looking for a fun afternoon are in for a treat. This year’s festival will take place on September 30th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and admission is free for everyone.

For the last few years, the Wings and Wheels Fly-In has been organized in conjunction with the anniversary of the opening of the Wakulla County Airport 2J0. The airport has been a part of the Wakulla County landscape since 1963, and it acts as a gateway for aviators from the surrounding regions who want to come explore all that the area has to offer.

Experience a one-of-a-kind celebration of air and land travel

The Wings and Wheels Fly-In is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated events in Wakulla County, as it combines the past and future of aviation in northern Florida with America’s undying love for finely-tuned automobiles. This year’s iteration features fun activities for every member of the family, including live music throughout the event, drawings for free airplane rides, and fire equipment that will astound the kids. And for the little ones in your group, make sure their eyes are pointed toward the sky at 1:00 PM for a special surprise in the air.

Excitement for gearheads and automotive admirers

Whether you spend every weekend under the hood, want to learn more about car culture, or simply enjoy looking at pristine examples of classic automobiles, then the Wings and Wheels Fly-In deserves a spot on your itinerary. Some of the finest antique and classic cars in the region will be on hand to be judged for awards, and you can see what makes them so special by getting an up-close-and-personal view.

There will also be a selection of motorcycles as well, in case you prefer your automotive excitement on two wheels. In addition to checking out the fire trucks, kids will also have an opportunity to see some fantastic examples of RC models.

Aviators have their chance to shine

The wheels do have to share the spotlight with the wings, however, and there will be numerous types of aircraft on the premises for you to view. There will also be a separate award presentation for the best aircraft, immediately following the conclusion of the automotive awards at 12:30. Be sure to check out the various educational displays that will be on hand if you’d like to know more about aviation and the specific types of planes that you see at the fly-in.

Fun is a given whether you arrive by air or by road

However you decide to get there, there will be plenty of excitement at the 3rd Annual Wings and Wheels Fly-In. This great event can be just the beginning of your Wakulla County adventure, because there are so many unique places to explore. Stay with us for awhile, and experience more of what makes Wakulla County a family-friendly natural wonderland.