This region runs from Pensacola, known for its historic homes, museums, and miles of white, unspoiled beaches eastward to Apalachicola, known for its abundance of oysters, shrimp, and crabs. In between you'll find the Destin-Ft. Walton area, known as the Emerald Coast, and Panama City. These popular vacation destinations with miles of beaches on the blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide the family with great fishing, shelling unmatched in the US, sailing, camping, swimming, or just beachcombing. History buffs can visit Ft. Pickens and learn of its role in the Civil War. Nature lovers can visit the region’s reserves and view the birds and other wild life indigenous to the area. The region also offers festivals year-round for art, music, and local foods.