From the shores of Sanibel and Captiva Islands to the charming town of Mexico Beach and the vibrant Panama City, Florida’s Gulf Coast has faced tremendous challenges in recent years following devastating hurricanes. Today, these three communities have bounced back better than ever!
Find out how these three Florida cities have recovered and all the fun things to do in each for a fabulous Florida getaway.
Sanibel Island + Captiva Island
More Info: sanibel-captiva.org
Sanibel and Captiva Islands have experienced the brunt of many hurricanes, but Hurricane Ian in 2022 was the worst storm to hit the area since 1926. With 130-mile-per-hour winds and 12 feet of surge flooding, the charming islands suffered staggering destruction.
Beyond damage to the bridges and lighthouses, hotels, restaurants, and other businesses were flooded. Days after the initial damage, community efforts to restore the islands began. While restoration projects are still underway, the beautiful beaches and coastal towns have made a comeback.
“Sanibel and Captiva Islands have shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. Following the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton, these enchanting islands faced significant challenges. Yet, through the spirit of community, collaboration, and commitment to restoration, they have not only rebuilt but transformed,” says John Lai, President & CEO of the Sanibel and Captiva Chamber of Commerce.
“The waves of adversity have led to innovative solutions and sustainable practices that honor the islands’ natural beauty,” he adds. “Today, Sanibel and Captiva stand as a testament to the strength of their community and the enduring allure of their pristine shores, welcoming visitors with renewed hope and a promise of continued resilience. They are truly still paradise.”
Book your stay at one of the hotels, resorts, house rentals, cottages, or inns. For a luxurious, family-friendly stay, The Sundial Beach Resort and Spa is a perfect choice. The beachfront resort has amenities aplenty, like a full-service spa, several restaurants, a marina, and multiple pools. If you like a quaint, cozy feel, you can’t go wrong with the Parrot Nest or the Island Inn. These historic inns have fabulous beach access, beautifully updated lodging, and free beach chairs and umbrellas.
Sanibel Island is heralded by Travel + Leisure Magazine as the best shelling spot in North America, and this is evident by the number of tourists who make their way to Sanibel to “shell.” If you’re not a shelling pro, you can take a shelling guided tour or visit the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.
The peaceful beaches on Captiva and Sanibel Islands are known for their pristine white sand and beautiful views. Captiva Beach has been nominated as “Best Restored Beach” through several organizations, and Sanibel Beach and Fishing Pier is home to the Sanibel Lighthouse! This historic, functioning lighthouse was first operated in 1884.
For more beachside fun, tourists can explore the island by kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. On the off-chance you experience an afternoon of rainy weather, Sanibel has plenty of unique, delightful shopping to keep you busy. Explore the Tahitian Gardens shopping mall, The Village Shops, Olde Sanibel Shoppes, or the Town Center.
Beyond beautiful beaches and exciting outdoor excursions, Sanibel and Captiva have no shortage of delicious restaurants to try. For a fine dining option, the Old Captiva House is an island staple. Located at the ‘Tween Waters Island Resort and Spa, this oceanfront restaurant is a National Register of Historic Places landmark.
Enjoy fresh seafood or steak at Old Captiva House, the site of the island’s first schoolhouse. A beach trip is not complete without plenty of ice cream; luckily, Love Boat Ice Cream has enough seasonal and classic flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Mexico Beach
More Info: mexicobeach.com
Before Hurricane Michael in 2018, the Mexico Beach Community Development Council had begun work on a full-scale restoration project. After the category five Storm brought 14 feet of storm surge and a foot of rain, the need to revitalize became even more pressing. While today’s Mexico Beach tourists would never suspect the extent of the hurricane’s damage, the community’s grit and determination in the face of destruction has made Mexico Beach a truly “Unforgettable Coast.”
“Mexico Beach has not stopped moving forward since October 2018. Our beaches are welcoming, our businesses are thriving, and we continue to rebuild,” says Kimberly Shoaf, President of Mexico Beach Community Development Council. “We have been very encouraged over the years by those who love our destination.”
“Once you visit Mexico Beach, it becomes a part of you,” she continues. “You take a piece of us home with you — that feeling of a small coastal town setting, the friendliness you experience when you pass people on the sidewalk, the stories you create, and the memories you take are what make Mexico Beach unforgettable. We could not have made it this far if it was not for all the wonderful support and encouragement from those all over who have a love for our area. Our residents are a testament to what makes a community resilient.”
When it comes to lodging, Mexico Beach has options for every traveler. From beachfront resorts to rental homes to RV parks, there is truly something for everyone. Rebuilt in 2018, the charming Driftwood Inn has been a Mexico Beach staple for over 50 years. The El Governor Beachfront Resort is a beachside escape on Mexico Beach’s famous “sugar-white” sand.
Northwest Florida is home to 57 different ecosystems, and there are plenty of ways to experience them in Mexico Beach. Paddle or kayak through Wakulla Springs State Park, one of the world’s deepest and largest freshwater springs. Mexico Beach is home to hundreds of bird species, so birdwatchers can keep busy at St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. If you want to try your hand at catching your dinner, set sail on the Gulf of Mexico. Mexico Beach has over 290 artificial reefs full of game fish like Grouper, Red Snapper, King Mackerel, and more!
Speaking of dinner, eats on Mexico Beach are fresh, family-friendly, and delicious. For “Floribbean” cuisine, check out Mango Marley’s. It is famous for its rum cocktails, and the food is something to write home about. From “Tiki Shrimp” to the “Hang 10 Mahi Burger” to fresh fish platters, you’ll understand why Don Middlebrook was inspired to write his song “Mexico Beach” after a visit to Mango Marley’s!
Panama City
More Info: destinationpanamacity.com
Hurricane Michael also wreaked havoc on Florida’s Panhandle. While early forecasts predicted the storm would miss Panama City, that was not the case. The storm significantly damaged the town as the 160-mile-per-hour winds and water flattened structures and flooded buildings. In the years since, the community banded together to rebuild. Today, Panama City has made a comeback, repairing the hurricane damage and further developing and revitalizing its downtown and historic districts.
“As a community, we are the architects of Panama City’s tomorrow — turning resilience into renewal, vision into action, and adversity into opportunity,” says Jennifer Vigil, President & CEO of Destination: Panama City. “We’re creatively repurposing, reimagining, and rebuilding a city that honors its roots while boldly shaping its future.”
Turning adversity into opportunity perfectly describes Panama City’s exponential growth in the years since Hurricane Michael. Today, the vibrant beach town is once again a hub of art, culture, and travel. One of the most exciting developments is the new Hotel Indigo, located along the downtown marina. This pet-friendly, luxurious boutique hotel offers stunning views of St. Andrews Bay.
With so many activities to choose from, Panama City is a winning choice for everyone on your trip! As if the clear blue water and striking sandy beaches weren’t enough, there are plenty of exciting ways to enjoy the gorgeous views. Visitors can snorkel, embark on dolphin tours, enjoy world-class fishing, or even take a trip to Shell Island, a secluded, uninhabited barrier island only accessible by boat.
Take a break from the sun and enjoy Panama City’s beloved downtown district, which has been revitalized and is a hub of creativity and culture. Stroll through the retail corridors on 15th and 23rd Streets, where boutique shops, antiques, and local restaurants line the road.
History buffs can explore Panama City and learn about its past on a Historic Walking Tour. Artsy types can browse regional crafts at the Native Spirit Museum & Gallery and the Panama City Center for the Arts.
Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, Southern delicacies, or something sweet, Panama City’s food scene has something to satisfy every palate. Enjoy waterfront dining at Bayou Joe’s, which overlooks Massalina Bayou and offers stunning views with a delicious menu of fresh seafood, burgers, and Southern comfort food.
For the perfect lunch, savor a salad or pizza at Trigo San Francisco Style Deli & Catering. Don’t miss the chance to embark on Panama City’s “Oyster Trail” to experience the region’s best and freshest oysters. For true foodies, “A Taste of Panama City” culinary tours are a delicious, unique way to get to know the beach town.
Happy exploring!
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