Santa Rosa County’s white sandy beaches and dense forests are just a short drive from the City of Pensacola. Rich in both history and archaeology, Santa Rosa County provides a wealth of opportunities for visitors interested in Northwest Florida’s past. Places of interest include the Arcadia Mill Site, Gulf Islands National Seashore, and several historic districts.

Many of the sites listed below are on the National Register of Historic Places. You can now search the National Register website by county.

Parks

• Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Navarre Beach State Park is home to one of the most popular fishing destinations along the Emerald Coast. Anglers catch cobia, redfish, mackerel, flounder, bonita, Gulf kingfish, and Florida pompano from the park’s 800-foot pier. Walkers visit the pier to see coastal and aquatic wildlife such as bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and a variety of shorebirds. A multi-use trail provides access for bicycling, jogging, in-line skating, and wildlife viewing. Beach visitors can sunbathe, swim in the blue-green waters, or watch a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. A concession at the base of the fishing pier offers drinks, snacks, ice cream, and fishing amenities.

County Offices & Organizations

• Santa Rosa County Government
• Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce

Historic Districts

• Bagdad Village Historic District
• Milton Historic District
• Thomas Creek Archaeological District