mexico beach florida 2012 visitor's guide

The Visitor’sGuide to one of

Florida’s last greatseaside communities.

Contents3 Welcome to Mexico Beach!4 3 Miles of Paradise!

Where is Mexico Beach, Florida? How far away is Mexico Beach?What’s the weather like?

6 A Little Bit of HistoryHow Mexico Beach got its start and highlights between then and now.

8 Calendar of EventsAn entire year full of exciting happenings make Mexico Beach a greatplace to visit year-round.

10 Attractions, Activities & Advice11 Beach Town12 Sea, Surf & Shore14 Shopping by the Sea15 Out on the Town16 Where to Stay17 Destination Weddings18 Park It!19 Day Trips / Photo Contest Form

20 The Naturalist’s Guide to Mexico Beach22 Sea Turtles22 Coastal Birds23 Sea Shells24 Sport Fish

26 Mexico Beach Business Directory28 Restaurants & Eateries29 Fishing & Boating29 Inns & Motels30 Specialty Shops31 Grocery & Package Stores32 Vacation Properties

34 A Welcome Addition Opens Its Doors!Sacred Heart Hospital on the Gulf brings quality health careto the beach!

36 Stay Connected!38 Emergency Numbers & Area Information

2

Welcome to Mexico Beach!

Our little beach town is a serene and tranquil hideaway from busy

schedules and the pressures of everyday life. Since 1946, this quiet

beach community has enjoyed long days of fishing, beachcombing and

relaxation followed by spectacular sunsets, great meals and good times.

Families have been creating treasured memories and building lasting

traditions on our white sand beaches for years.

The City of Mexico Beach stretches for three miles along the beautiful Gulf of

Mexico – that’s three long miles of sugar sand beaches and clear blue water.

You won’t find traffic lights, chain restaurants or busy shopping complexes

here. Instead, you’ll discover unique boutiques, fantastic seafood in one-of-a-

kind eateries, friendly local folks and uncrowded beaches!

The waters of the Gulf of Mexico are clean and calm along Mexico Beach, and

swimming, fishing and boating are popular activities here. The recently renovated

and extended City Pier is a great place to catch the big one or enjoy a leisurely

walk over the water, and lounging on the sand as the sun sets is the perfect

way to bid farewell to the day. Just sit back and enjoy the satisfaction that only

a day at the beach can bring.

There’s no doubt that this place is special. Come discover our outstanding little

beach community for yourself. Create memories and traditions of your own. On

behalf of the Mexico Beach Community Development Council and its Board of

Directors, I invite you to visit Mexico Beach often, make the most of every visit,

and welcome you to one of Florida’s last great seaside communities.

Thank you for your interest in our town!

Kimberly Shoaf

President, Mexico Beach CDC

How far awayis Mexico Beach?

Albany, GA . . . . . . . 196Atlanta, GA . . . . . . . 315Augusta, GA . . . . . . 415Birmingham, AL. . . 302Chattanooga, TN . . 428Chicago, IL . . . . . . . 964Cincinnati, OH. . . . . 772Columbia, SC . . . . . 487Columbus, GA . . . . 208Destin, FL . . . . . . . . . 80Dothan, AL . . . . . . . 107Gainesville, FL . . . . 252

Gulfport, MS. . . . . . 259Houston, TX . . . . . . 652Huntsville, AL . . . . . 401Indianapolis, IN . . . 778Jackson, MS . . . . . . 378Jacksonville, FL . . . 263Knoxville, TN . . . . . 524Lexington, KY . . . . . 691Little Rock, AR . . . . 638Louisville, KY . . . . . 665Miami, FL . . . . . . . . 560Memphis, TN . . . . . 536

Montgomery, AL . . 213Nashville, TN . . . . . 493New Orleans, LA . . 328Orlando, FL . . . . . . . 333Panama City, FL . . . . 27Pensacola, FL . . . . . 128Mobile, AL . . . . . . . 186Savannah, GA . . . . 398Shreveport, LA . . . . 592St. Louis, MO . . . . . 798Tampa, FL . . . . . . . . 351Tallahassee, FL . . . . 102

Closer than you think!

3 Miles of Paradise!Where is Mexico Beach, Florida?

Our laid-back community is located inthe southernmost portion of the FloridaPanhandle just two hours southwestof Tallahassee and 30 minutes east ofPanama City. Situated directly on theGulf of Mexico near the mouth of St.Joseph Bay, Mexico Beach is shelteredby the protective arm of the St. JosephPeninusula and Cape San Blas. As a

result, our shores are among the safestin the country. Flanked on either side bythe beaches of Gulf County and TyndallAir Force Base, our three mile stretchof paradise is the perfect beach getaway.Avoid the traffic and crowds – enjoyFlorida exactly the way it was meantto be! Beat a path to “just off the beatenpath.” Escape to Mexico Beach.

Just off the beaten path.

4

What’s the weather like?month

daily high

nightly low

Jan

63

41

Feb

67

43

Mar

73

50

Apr

79

54

May

86

62

Jun

90

68

Jul

91

71

Aug

91

71

Sep

88

68

Oct

80

56

Nov

73

49

Dec

66

43

Yes, it’s that good!Unlike destinations further south, Mexico Beach experiences brief,subtle changes of season. Summers are balmy & wonderful andWinters are calm & comfortable, but most locals prefer the Springand Fall with their warm days & cool nights.

5

6

A Little Bit of The 1930s saw the completion of United States Highway98, and vastly increased the number of visitors to thearea. Accommodations were very limited, however, andlivestock and wildlife still roamed freely along the newroad. Local residents recall “being chased by cows onthe beach”during early visits to the area. Growth wasslow, and the sleepy community remained quiet.

In 1946, a small group of businessmen, led by GordonParker, W. T. McGowan and J. W. Wainwright, purchased1,850 acres along the beach for $65,000.00. Developmentbegan in earnest shortly thereafter. Accustomed to valuingland for its agricultural yield, Parker’s partners failed tosee the value in the stretch of windswept dunes andsandy soil, yet Parker remained convinced and organizedthe Mexico Beach Corporation.

Parker’s son eventually took over development efforts forthe company. Along with determination and vision, thoseefforts enabled the late Charles M. Parker to shape thearea into the Mexico Beach of today. Charlie Parker, hiswife, Inky, and their two daughters moved to Mexico Beach

Accounts of Mexico Beach’s past are a little foggy beforethe early 1900s. Sources agree that the first settlement inthe area was Fort Crevecouer, a French military installationbuilt in 1717. The fort’s life was short – it was abandonedand burned to appease La Florida’s Spanish governor.

Records indicate very little activity until the 1900s whenrumors of the legendary Maddox Gold Mines and sunkenCaribbean pirate ships brought treasure hunters to thecoast. One old sailing ship was found buried in local sands,but the name of the ship and any record of its cargo havebeen lost over time. Neither the mines nor the treasurehave been rediscovered...yet!

Businessman Felix du Pont purchased the land nowoccupied by the City of Mexico Beach around 1900. Nativepine trees were harvested to produce turpentine, and thearea gained a bit of exposure to public eyes. Fishermenwere some of the first to embrace the newly discovered –and newly accessible – beaches. The allure of amazingSpring and Fall runs of migratory fish were as difficult toresist then as they are today.

Historic Timelineof Mexico Beach

1717

French build,then abandonand burn, Fort

Crevecouerunder Spanish

threat.

1901

Felix DuPontpurchases site

for harvestof trees toproduce

turpentine.

of

T

7

in 1949. Through dedication, hard work and sacrifice, theymade the community their home.

The little community suffered growing pains, and somedevelopment plans were realized while others wereshelved. Electric power and water treatment were justtwo of the many obstacles standing in the way ofprogress, but the Parkers were able to overcome themall. Slow growth ensued, and Mexico Beach boastedseveral hundred residents by 1955.

Charlie Parker led the community in a program of smartgrowth, civic pride and destination awareness. Named forits location on the Gulf, the little beach town was ready toincorporate by 1966. That year, the City of Mexico Beachwas formed. Charlie Parker was elected Mayor.

Since then, the beach town has kept growing steadily.Over 1,000 people now call Mexico Beach home. Cityofficials have embraced Parker’s vision, attracted qualitybusinesses to the coast and preserved Mexico Beach’sreputation as a family-friendly vacation community.

e

1937

Constructionof United States

Highway 98completed.

Traffic to areaincreases.

1946

Coalition ofbusinessmenled by Gordon

Parker buy1,850 acresalong beach.

1949

Charles Parkerand familyarrive in

Mexico Beachto assist withdevelopment.

1955

Developmentprogressesand local

populationexceeds 300for first time.

1966

City ofMexico Beachincorporates.

Charles Parkerelected asfirst Mayor.

2006

U.S. Highway98 Bridgeover Canal

dedicated inhonor of

Charles Parker.

2010

Renovation ofCity Pier and

construction ofpublic access

boat rampcomplete.

History

Calendar of

Plein AirInvitational

Nationally recognized Plein Air artistscapture the beauty of Mexico Beachand surrounding communities withpaint and canvas. Painting happenslive throughout the region. The tenday event includes an ongoing artexhibit and sale, too!

Music inthe Park

Join us every Thursday night duringthe month of September at 6:00 pmfor live music overlooking the beachat Sunset Park (right next door to theEl Governor Motel).

Mexico BeachGumbo Cook-Off

On the Saturday before President’sDay, dozens of chefs prepare theirbest gumbo recipes and competefor cash prizes at Sunset Park. Thegumbo is sold after judging to payfor Independence Day fireworks!

SnowbirdLuncheon

A fun and filling get-together forwinter residents and guests hostedby the Mexico Beach CommunityDevelopment Council. Enjoy a greatmeal with friends and neighbors!Location to be announced.

MexicoBeach Photo Contest

Held every April 1st thru July 25th.Photos must be shot in Mexico Beach,and winning entries will be displayedin the Mexico Beach Welcome Center.Entry forms are available online atwww.Mexico-Beach.com, from theWelcome Center or on page 19 ofthis Visitor’s Guide.

Best Blast on the Beach!4th of July fireworks display, 5K race,kid’s fishing tourney and much more!

Marquardt’s MarinaOffshore Classic

Big fish and huge prizes at Marquardt’sMarina on the last Saturday in July!

MBARA AnnualKingfish Tournament

The Mexico Beach Artificial ReefAssociation hosts the area’s biggestkingfish tournament on the lastweekend in August. Good timesand great prizes in support of aworthy cause.

Mexico BeachArt & Wine Festival

One of Beach Town USA’s premierevents featuring a juried exhibit offine art, a live auction, fine wines, artisan beers and outstanding liveentertainment. Hosted annually bythe Driftwood Inn.

ChristmasCelebration of Lights

Tree lighting ceremony and Christmascarols by candlelight in Sunset Park!

Celebrate Twice!Ring in the New Year in two timezones with free shuttle service!

Events

Need more information? Call 888.723.2546 or visit www.Mexico-Beach.com.9

Attractions,Activities &

Advice

10

Safety First!Following these basic rules will ensure that everyone hasa safe and enjoyable visit to Mexico Beach.1. No pets on the beach with the exceptions of Canal Beach

and St. Joe Beach.2. Speed limit 35 mph on U.S. Highway 98.3. No passing on the shoulder on U.S. Highway 98.4. Speed limit 5 mph in the Canal – no wake zone!5. Restricted areas for Wave Runners – 300 feet offshore.6. Never take glass on the beach.7. Open fires are not allowed.8. No walking on sand dunes and/or sea oats.

Turtle Tips!Please help protect our endangered Sea Turtles!1. Do not touch turtles or their nests.2. Do not take flash photography of turtles or

their nests.3. Call 850.647.8238 to report any unmarked turtle crawls.4. Close all blinds and draperies on the beach side of your

accommodations at night. Keep turtles in the dark!5. Remove lounge chairs, umbrellas, boats, coolers and

tents from the beach at the end of each day.6. If you encounter a Sea Turtle at night, please remain

quiet and slowly step away.7. Do not disturb turtle tracks – they are very valuable to

researchers studying Sea Turtles.8. Pick up plastic bags, balloons, styrofoam and other

floating debris. Items like these can be fatal to turtlesif ingested.

11

Beach TownThe beach is the thread that connects us. The sand is so white wecompare it to sugar – it’s so clean it squeaks under your feet. We havebuilt our community around this spectacular stretch of shoreline. Fromrestaurants and stores to festivals and concerts to athletic pursuits andfishing tournaments, everything happens along the water’s edge. Andall you need to do to enjoy it is be here.

Nature abounds. Eagles nest here. Sea Turtle hatchlings make their wayinto the surf on warm summer nights. Mackerel and Cobia swim closeto shore during seasonal migrations. Bottlenose Dolphins frolic in thesurf all year long. The variety of life in this paradise is incredible.

Browse your way through an eclectic collection of shops full of uniquemerchandise. Enjoy some of the world’s best seafood in one-of-a-kindrestaurants. Wander around friendly neighborhoods where peoplesmile and wave. Explore the parks. Comb the beach. Life here is quiet,and fosters an appreciation for the simple things.

Simple things like Concerts in the Park. Held at Sunset Park next tothe El Governor Motel, these live music events bring folks togetherfor great entertainment in a beautiful setting. Look for concert postersdisplayed around town for dates and times, keep your eyes and earsopen as you travel Highway 98, or visit www.Mexico-Beach.com.

Simple things like original local art. Mexico Beach is home to manyresident artists. Painters, sculptors and photographers live and workin our little community. Much of their work is displayed and offeredfor sale in local shops, restaurants and inns. Each May, Plein Air artistsgather for ten days and capture regional vistas on canvas. In October,the city celebrates with an Art & Wine Festival. There’s even a galleryin the Mexico Beach Welcome Center.

The Welcome Center, located on the edge of town on the corner ofHighway 98 and Canal Parkway, is a great place to begin exploringMexico Beach. Operated by the Community Development Counciland staffed by friendly volunteers, the Welcome Center offers visitorinformation, public access computers and 24-hour Wi-Fi access.

Visitors are encouraged to read The Star local newspaper, pick upa copy of Must See magazine, and tune in to Local TV Channel 4for additional information.

12

Sea, Surf& Shore

Many species of aquatic life make theirhome in the waters of Mexico Beach. It’snot uncommon to see pods of Dolphinsplaying and feeding in local waters. SeaTurtles, Urchins, Starfish, Crabs, andSand Dollars thrive here as well. You arewelcome to watch, explore and collect,but please, respect the home of thesebeautiful, amazing creatures.

Sea Turtles are amongthe largest livingreptiles, with five

species frequenting the waters of theGulf of Mexico. These fascinating andendangered animals are cold blooded,breathe air and lay their eggs on land.Turtle nesting season occurs betweenMay 1st and October 31st. Nests aremarked with stakes and yellow cautiontape – please do not disturb! For moreinformation, see Turtle Tips on page 11.

Beach swimmers and surfers sharethe shallows with numerous aquaticcreatures. Hermit Crabs, Starfish, Rays,schools of small fish and other harmlesscreatures are commonly encounteredinside the surf zone. It’s a good idea todo the Sting Ray Shuffle – slide insteadof step – while wading…just in case.

Bigger fish spend the majority of theirtime in much deeper water, and that’swhere fishermen target them. While

plenty of fish can be caught right off thebeach, City Pier, or in the Canal, manyanglers head offshore in search of biggergame. Grouper, Snapper, King Mackerel,Cobia, Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo and more(see page 24) can be caught within sightof land. How is this possible? Throughthe efforts of the Mexico Beach ArtificialReef Association (MBARA).

MBARA has developed an extensiveartificial reef system just offshore fromMexico Beach. The organization hasthree functions: 1) Conservation andenvironmental improvement of naturaland artificial reefs systems near MexicoBeach; 2) Research and evaluation of reefdesigns, biomass development and fishproduction; and 3) Educate the publicabout the importance of reefs to themarine ecosystem and their impacton coastal communities.

Fishing LicensesThe State of Florida requires fishermen tohold a recreational saltwater fishing license,but there are two important exemptionsto this law – children under 16 years of ageand Florida residents over the age of 65.Fishing licenses may be purchased locallyat Marquardt’s Marina and Cathey’s AceHardware. Anglers fishing aboard licensedcharter boats do not need a license - thecaptain’s charter includes licensing for allfishermen aboard the vessel.

MBARA also hosts one of the city’s bestevents, the Mexico Beach Artificial ReefAssociation Kingfish Tournament andpublishes a regular newsletter. You canlearn more about the MBARA online atwww.mbara.org.

While fishing may be king in MexicoBeach, easy access to artificial reefs andthe historic shipwreck of the Vamar makethe town a great destination for SCUBAdivers, snorkelers and spear fishermen,too. Charters are available for anyonewho wants to experience the abundantmarine life of Mexico Beach first-hand.Check the Mexico Beach CDC web siteat www.Mexico-Beach.com for a list oflocal captains and contact information.

Of course, there’s plenty of other fun tobe had along Mexico Beach. You can ridewave runners or go parasailing. Try yourhand at skimboarding or wind surfing.Explore local waters in a kayak, canoe,sailboat, catamaran or motor boat. Playvolleyball on the beach. Catch a waveon a surf or bodyboard. Or, you can justrelax on the beach and soak up thewarm Florida sun.

However you decide to spend your days,rest assured that local merchants carryeverything you need to make the mostof your time at the beach. From chairsand umbrellas to kayaks and coolers,you’ll be well-equipped for the sea, surfand shore of Mexico Beach.

Shoppingby the Sea

Several colorful shops dot the roadside as Highway 98 curves through Mexico Beach,while others are tucked away in motels or restaurants. No matter where you find themerchants of Mexico Beach, you’ll discover a huge variety of quality merchandisein their stores. Offerings run the gamut from gifts and souvenirs to gourmet foodsand fine art. Pick up your necessities when you arrive, and set aside a few hoursto explore the shops of Mexico Beach while you’re here. You’re sure to discoverthat perfect something to take back home!

Beachwalk3102 Highway 98 / 850.648.4200Beach wear, casual wear, swim wear, hats,jewelry, sunglasses, kites, beach blankets,skin care products, novelty gifts, more...

Cathey’s Ace Hardware3004 Highway 98 / 850.648.5242Beach supplies, fishing equipment andtackle, outdoor furniture, beach umbrellas,general hardware, more...

The Driftwood Inn Gift Shop2105 Highway 98 / 850.648.5126Local art, antiques, t-shirts,postcards, more...

El Governor Motel Gift Shop1701 Highway 98 / 850.648.5757Package liquors, beer, wine, t-shirts,beach supplies, convenience items,Christmas store, more...

Emerald Coast Jewelry2802-B Highway 98 / 850.648.2300Gold and diamond jewelry, regional goldand silver charms, local art, photography,children’s items, gifts, more...

Frost Pottery Garden & Gift Shop2904-C Highway 98 / 850.541.2839Imported pottery, water features, kites, windchimes and spinners, jewelry, outdoor rugs,local art, gifts, more...

The Grove2700 Highway 98 / 850.648.4445Nautical curiosities, local art, home décorand accessories, outdoor furniture, noveltysigns, bicycle rentals, more...

Gulf Foods900-A Highway 98 / 850.648.5129Beach wear, casual wear, swim wear, hats,jewelry, sunglasses, kites, beach blankets,skin care products, novelty gifts, more...

The Lookout Lounge9454 W. Highway 98, Beacon Hill / 850.647.8310Package liquors, wine and beer.

Marquardt’s Marina3904 Highway 98 / 850.648.8900Beach wear, technical clothing, fishingequipment and tackle, sunglasses, bait,gas, ice, more...

The Port Fine Wine & Spirits202 W. Highway 98, Port St. Joe / 850.229.2977Liquor, wine, beer, cigars, more...

Prickly Pears101 South 36th Street / 850.648.1115Fine wines, micro-brew beers, chocolates,gourmet foods and coffees, espresso, fineart, cigars, spices, gift baskets, more...

The Shell Shack3800 Highway 98 / 850.648.8256Full-service seafood market including pack-for-travel services, sea shells, gifts, t-shirts,souvenirs, novelties, more...

Toucan’s Beach Store & Surf Shop719 Highway 98 / 850.648.8207Beach supplies, swimwear, t-shirts, boardshorts, skin care products, resort wear, hats,sunglasses, souvenirs, gifts, more...

Two Gulls2802-D Highway 98 / 850.648.1122Resort wear for men and women, souvenirs,beach gear, hats, t-shirts, footwear, gifts, art,jewelry, more...

15

Out onthe Town

R E S T A U R A N T S

Beach Pizza2902 Highway 98 / 850.648.4600Serving lunch, dinner and take-outMonday thru Saturday. Pizza, salads,fried shrimp, hot and cold sandwicheswith Boar’s Head products, more...

The Fish House3006 Highway 98 / 850.648.8950Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinnerdaily. Seafood, steaks, burgers, salads,full bar, more...

Killer Seafood820 Highway 98 / 850.648.6565Serving lunch and dinner Wednesdaythru Sunday. Seafood, fish tacos, salads,burgers, beer, wine, more...

Mango Marley’s3104 Highway 98 / 850.648.5000Serving lunch and dinner every day.Fresh seafood served grilled or fried,burgers, salads, wings, full bar, more...

Prickly Pears BBQ101 South 36th Street / 850.648.1115Serving lunch, dinner and take-outTuesday thru Saturday. Boston butt,chicken, ribs, Brunswick stew, more...

Mexico Beach has a number of excellent establishments serving fresh seafoodand cool libations. When you’re craving fresh-caught seafood, a smooth cocktailor live entertainment, the beach is the place to be!

Ruby Rumrunner’s3114 Highway 98 / 850.648.2030Serving lunch and dinner every day from11am until 9pm. Fresh-caught seafood,pasta, salads, burgers, sandwiches, beer,wine, full bar, more...

Sharon’s Cafe1100 Highway 98 / 850.648.8634Serving breakfast, lunch and take-outevery day from 6am until 2pm. Waffles,omelettes, sandwiches, burgers, more...

Subway714 Highway 98 / 850.648.8840Serving breakfast, lunch and dinnerevery day. Located inside Express Lane.Sub sandwiches, salads, soups, more...

Toucan’s on the Beach719 Highway 98 / 850.648.8207Serving lunch and dinner every day.Beachfront dining. Seafood, sandwiches,burgers, salads, full bar, more...

N I G H T S P O T S

The Lookout Lounge9454 W. Highway 98, Beacon Hill / 850.647.8310Located just across the county line inBeacon Hill, the Lookout Lounge offerskaraoke, live music on the deck, more...

Mango Marley’s3104 Highway 98 / 850.648.5000Ice cold beer, hot wings, and big screenTVs with the best sporting events shownlive. Games, live entertainment, more...

Ruby Rumrunner’s3114 Highway 98 / 850.648.2030Ruby’s serves up great food, cool drinks,good times, a casual atmosphere, andmore right in the heart of Mexico Beach.

Toucan’s on the Beach719 Highway 98 / 850.648.8207Toucan’s upper deck lounge is a greatspot to dance to live music and enjoy acocktail overlooking the beach.

16

Where to StayV A C A T I O N R E N T A L S

Forgotten Coast PropertyManagement & Rentals900-C Highway 98Mexico Beach888.648.1012 / 850.648.1012www.ForgottenCoastRental.com

Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals101 South 33rd StreetMexico Beach800.582.2990 / 850.648.5449www.GulfCoastVacationRentals.com

Parker Realty of Mexico Beach3016 Highway 98Mexico Beach800.874.5073 / 850.648.5777www.MexicoBeachVacations.com

Your lodging options in Mexico Beach include quaint seaside cottages, spacious Gulffront rooms, luxury vacation homes, RV parks and more. Whatever accommodationsyou seek, you’ll find the perfect place to hang your hat in Mexico Beach.

Pristine PropertiesVacation Rentals1200 Highway 98Mexico Beach877.523.7131 / 850.227.1100www.VisitFloridaBeaches.com

Rustic Sands Resort Cottages800 15th StreetMexico Beach877.240.7213 / 850.648.5229www.RusticSands.com

Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals3052 W. Highway 98Port St. Joe866.842.0563 / 850.229.1350www.SouthernResorts.com

I N N S & M O T E L S

Buena Vista Motel903 Highway 98Mexico Beach850.648.5323www.NewBuenaVista.com

The Driftwood Inn2105 Highway 98Mexico Beach850.648.5126www.DriftwoodInn.com

El Governor Motel1701 Highway 98Mexico Beach850.648.5757www.ElGovernorMotel.net

Gulf View Motel1404 Highway 98Mexico Beach850.648.5955

R V P A R K S

El Governor RV Park1700 Highway 98Mexico Beach850.648.5432www.ElGovernorMotel.net

Rustic Sands RV Resort800 15th StreetMexico Beach877.240.7213 / 850.648.5229www.RusticSands.com

17

Occasionally you stumble over a placeideally suited for life’s special occasions.For destination weddings, that placeis Mexico Beach. A wide band of whitesand edged by sea oats borders calm,clean, turquoise waters. Boardwalksspan rolling dunes and provide dramaticwalkways to and from beach venues.Every day, the sun sets over the Gulf ofMexico in spectacular fashion andpaints a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop inthe western sky. Without a doubt, thislittle beach town is a wedding planner’sdream come true!

Maybe that’s why there are so manyoutstanding regional event servicesproviders. Local professionals supplyeverything your destination weddingrequires – planning services, flowers,photography, entertainment, tentrentals and furnishings, cakes andcatering and much more! Manyproperty management companies,inns and motels (see page 16) are

happy to help with family and guesthousing needs, as well as other detailsof your big day. A local inn even offersa private Victorian wedding chapel thatoverlooks the Gulf of Mexico.

Mexico Beach is the perfect place totie the knot – and the Mexico BeachCommunity Development Council ishere to assist you. We regularly providedestination brides, coordinators andwedding planners with informationand referrals. To learn more aboutdestination weddings in Mexico Beach,visit the Mexico Beach CDC web siteat www.Mexico-Beach.com and clickwedding information.

Park It!Every visitor to Mexico Beach should familiarize themselves with the town’smunicipal facilities and City Parks. These valuable community assets make itconvenient and easy to experience all that Mexico Beach has to offer. Theyprovide access and amenities to beach-goers and numerous opportunites foroutdoor recreation including tennis, basketball, picnics and much more. Thenew Mexico Beach Boat Ramp has plenty of room for launching boats – easilyfour at once – and parking trailers, as well as a quick route to the open watersof the Gulf of Mexico. There’s even an historic underwater preserve just a fewmiles offshore!

Canal Park Canal Park runs along the edge of the Mexico Beach Canalon the Gulf side of Highway 98. There is a covered pavilion, picnic tables andbenches, and great fishing spots on the canal, the jetties and the beach.

Mexico Beach City Park Convenient beach walkovers and publicrestrooms make the beach adjacent to the City Park very popular. It’s rightnext to Toucan’s Restaurant as well!

Sunset Park The site of many exciting Mexico Beach events, SunsetPark is located next door to the El Governor Motel. The park hosts theGumbo Cook-Off, Music in the Park and the Christmas Celebration of Lights.

Mexico Beach Municipal Park Located on Paradise Pathbetween 20th and 22nd Streets, this park offers a top notch tennis court andbasketball court, shuffleboard courts, picnic tables, BBQ grills and a largechildren’s playground.

Under-The-Palms Park Tucked away off 7th Street, Under-The-PalmsPark offers walking paths, open spaces, and public restrooms.

Mexico Beach Boat Ramp Thisbrand new facility, just completed in 2010,is destined to be the envy of communitiesall over the State of Florida. It featuresspacious concrete ramps, generousdocking space and easy Gulf access.

Vamar State UnderwaterArchaeological Preserve Thesea floor off of Mexico Beach is dottedwith numerous wrecks and artificialreefs. The shipwreck Vamar, however,may be the most interesting. It has afascinating history and is accessibleto both snorkelers and divers. Restingin just 27 feet of water, the Vamar isoften visible from the surface!

18

19

Day Trips

MEXICO BEACH PHOTO CONTEST ENTRY FORMN A M E

M A I L I N G A D D R E S S

C I T Y S T A T E Z I P

T E L E P H O N E

E - M A I L

Submission RequirementsThe annual Mexico Beach Photo Contestis held from April 1st through July 25theach year. The submission deadline isJuly 25th. Please submit best quality8"x10" images and $5.00 per entry alongwith this completed form to:Mexico Beach CDC Photo ContestP.O. Box 13382Mexico Beach, FL 32410

Important! Submission of an image to the Mexico Beach CDC Photo Contest constitutes the photographer’s release of all rights to the photo.Images may appear in Mexico Beach CDC publications and other regional promotional materials. Photos submitted will not be returned.

TITLE 1: CATEGORY: THE BEACHHISTORICAL

ANIMAL LIFEWATERSPORTS

FISHING & BOATINGSUNRISES & SUNSETS

AROUND TOWNSPECIAL EVENTS

PEOPLEFLORA





PEOPLEFLORA





PEOPLEFLORA

These excursions are less than an hour away and offer their own unique charm!

Apalachicola Just 32 miles away. Alwaysa delight to visit, historic Apalachicola isfilled with unique stores, art galleries andfantastic gourmet restaurants.

St. Joseph Peninsula Just 19 miles away.The beaches at the St. Joseph PeninsulaState Park were voted No.1 in the nation.Home of the Cape San Blas Lighthouse!

Panama City Beach Just 39 miles away.A good spot for a day of high profile familyfun. PCB is the home of Shipwreck IslandWater Park and Gulf World Marine Park.

Port St. Joe Just 12 miles away. A townwith a fascinating history, great shopping,excellent restaurants, a dive shop and the18-hole St. Joseph Bay Golf Club.

WindMark Beach Just 7 miles away. Theperfect spot for bike rides and a workout atthe fitness center. Home to Great SouthernSchool of Fish Restaurant and Bar.

St. Vincent Island & Indian Pass Just 25miles away. A great escape for nature lovers,St. Vincent Island National Wildlife Refugeis filled with exotic animal life. Ferry toand from the island, and enjoythe world’s best oysters atthe Indian Pass RawBar on the trip back.

TheNaturalist’s Guide

to20

22 Sea Turtles22 Coastal Birds23 Sea Shells24 Sport Fish

SeaTurtles

CoastalBirds

22

TricolorHeron

GreenHeron

RoseateSpoonbill

BlackCrowned

Heron

GreatEgret

GlossyIbis

YellowCrowned

Heron

SnowyEgret

LittleBlue

Heron

WhiteIbis

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SeaShells

ReddishEgret

GreatBlue

Heron

CalicoScallop

Spiny JewelBox

Common Bubble

Auger

CommonJingle

Periwinkle

ButtercupLucine

FanScallop

EasternOysterDove

Snail

Coquina

GiantHeart

Cockle

WormShell

Slipper Shell

Sailor’sEar

FloridaFighting

Conch

YellowCockle

Sport Fish

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Including inshore,nearshore andoffshore species.

WhiteMarlin

Bluefish

Sailfish

Pompano

Tripletail

MangroveSnapper

Hogfish

Barracuda

Amberjack

BlackfinTuna

VermillionSnapper

BlackSea

Bass

GoliathGrouper

Scamp

Redfish

Wahoo

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SpanishMackerel

Sheepshead

BlueMarlin

Tarpon

YellowfinTuna

SpeckledTrout

Mahi-Mahi

GrayTriggerfish

Whiting

Bonito

Flounder

GagGrouper

RedSnapper

RedGrouper

KingMackerel

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Business Directory28 Restaurants & Eateries29 Fishing & Boating29 Inns & Motels30 Specialty Shops31 Grocery & Package Stores32 Vacation Properties

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A family-owned casual dining restaurantserving breakfast, lunch and dinner – specializingin fresh seafood at affordable prices. Home of the

Shrimp Basket daily lunch and dinner specials.

850.648.89503006 Highway 98 / Mexico Beachwww.fishhousemexicobeach.com

Family-friendly fun! Catch your favorite sports teamwhile enjoying a watermelon margarita, the Best Wingsin Town or the Bloody Mary Bar. Gather with the localsat the coolest place on the beach. Open 7 days a week!

850.648.50003104 Highway 98 / Mexico Beach

www.mangomarleys.com

Find it all at Toucan’s Restaurant! Savor fresh localseafood while dining beachside. Watch the dolphinsswim by during happy hour. Enjoy good times andgreat music into the night in the upper deck lounge.


www.toucansmexicobeachfl.com

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Family outings, business retreats, or a serious angler’schance to catch the big one! Daily inshore and offshorefishing excursions with a licensed captain. Tackle andequipment provided. Please call for dates and pricing.

850.648.8211Mexico Beach Canal / Mexico Beach

www.charismacharters.com

Full service marina. We have it all! Ethanol-free gas,Yamaha and EdgeWater sales and service, wet storage,boat/kayak rentals, boating/beach accessories, charters,bait, tackle, clothing, sunglasses & more. ATM available.


www.marquardtsmarina.com

Located directly on the beach, every room at theEl Governor overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and includesa kitchen – perfect for families. Enjoy the large pool, tiki

bar and gift shop. RV park just across Highway 98!


www.elgovernormotel.net

This beachside inn is nestled in the heart of MexicoBeach. Enjoy retreats to porch swings and landscapedwalkways. Each room offers beautiful views of the Gulf

and there is an on-site Victorian wedding chapel.


www.driftwoodinn.com

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Exquisite and stylish treasures including brand-namebeachwear, jewelry, hats, beach blankets, sunglasses,swimwear, picture frames, embossed serving platters,

wind chimes, novelties and much more!


www.mexicobeachgifts.com

Located in the Markets of Mexico Beach, EmeraldCoast Jewelry features regional keepsake charms insilver and gold, blue diamonds, jewelry repair, giftsand more. Ask about beach photography services!

850.648.23002802-B Highway 98 / Mexico Beach

www.emeraldcoastjewelry.com

Shop the Grove! Enter an oasis filled with home décor,small furnishings, nautical gifts, unique accessories

and art. There’s also a large selection of handmade andpainted outdoor furniture, novelty signs and bike rental!


www.thegroveofmexicobeach.com

Pottery and gifts from around the world! Frost PotteryGarden & Gift Shop offers a huge selection of importedpottery in almost any shape, size or color with unique

gifts, garden accessories, exotic plants and much more.

850.541.28392904-C Highway 98 / Mexico Beach

www.frostpotterygarden.com

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Serving the best local seafood in Mexico Beachsince 1965. We offer fresh or steamed shrimp, fish

and scallops, a large variety of seashells, t-shirts andnovelty gifts, and we’ll pack seafood for travel.


www.shellshackmexicobeach.com

Quality fresh-cut meats, great produce, and a largeselection of beer and wine. Shop at Gulf Foods for

groceries, clothes, gifts and all of your beach needs.Video rental and ATM Service is also available!

850.648.5129900-A Highway 98 / Mexico Beach

[email protected]

The Port Fine Wine & Spirits offers the closestand largest selection of wines, imported beers, cigars,

ice and liquor inventory to Mexico Beach.Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm / Sun 10am-6pm (EST).

850.229.2977202 West Highway 98 / Port St. Joe

www.theportfinewine.com

Your place for fun on the beach! Don’t miss out ongood times at the Lookout Lounge. Enjoy daily drinkspecials, karaoke, live music and sunsets on the deck.Located at the Mexico Beach city limits in Beacon Hill.

850.647.83109454 West Highway 98 / Beacon Hill

www.lookoutlounge.com

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We are as selective as you are! Specializing invacation rentals from Mexico Beach to Cape San Blas

including beach and canal front properties as wellas affordable homes, condos and townhomes.

888.648.1012900-C Highway 98 / Mexico Beach

www.forgottencoastrental.com

Front row seating available! We have a great selectionof Gulf front, Gulf view & beachside vacation rentals.Our office has been serving the Mexico Beach area

for over 30 years. Call today to book your stay!


www.vacationrentalsmexicobeach.com

Hometown hospitality and service! Come see ustoday and enjoy your dream vacation on Florida’spristine white sands and emerald waters. Make

yourself at home in one of ours!


[email protected]

From five bedroom beach front homes to affordabletownhomes, we offer over 150 rental properties from

Mexico Beach to Cape San Blas – clean qualityproperties and guaranteed customer service!

800.582.2990101 South 33rd Street / Mexico Beach

www.gulfcoastvacationrentals.com/mbvg

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Sharing sunsets for 65 years! Our family-ownedbusiness offers a large selection of vacation rental

homes, condos and townhouses with nice amenities –beach front, Gulf view and on the canal with boat slips!

800.874.50733016 Highway 98 / Mexico Beachwww.mexicobeachvacations.com

Pristine Properties offers a variety of clean beachand town home rentals to fulfill your vacation dreams.Gulf front, canal front, private boat slips and more with

linens, DVD rentals and other amenities included.


www.visitfloridabeaches.com

Military friendly! Tyndall F-22 TX & B-Coursers,ABM students and AOC TDY’s welcome. Just 12 miles

to the main gate. Located in the purple buildingon the corner of 28th Street and Highway 98.

850.648.87002802-F Highway 98 / Mexico Beach

www.mexicobeachsundancerealty.com

A WelcomeAddition Opens

Its Doors!

Since its inception, Mexico Beach hasbeen a fantastic place to vacation. Thetown’s only drawback has been the lackof an easily accessible, responsive, qualityhealth care facility. With the opening ofSacred Heart Hospital on the Gulf in 2010,that issue has been officially resolved!

Sacred Heart Health System is knownfor providing high-quality health care toadults and children throughout NorthwestFlorida. The regional hub of the HealthSystem is a 466-bed acute care facilityin Pensacola, which includes SacredHeart Hospital, Sacred Heart Children’sHospital, and Sacred Heart Women’sHospital. The system also includes Sacred

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Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast,a 58-bed facility in Walton County, anda large regional network of over 135primary care physicians and specialists.Sacred Heart Hospital on the Gulf is thenewest addition to the Sacred HeartHealth System.

The 25-bed hospital, located just a fewminutes from Mexico Beach in PortSt. Joe, features a 24-hour emergencydepartment, inpatient acute care services,surgical services, physical, speech andoccupational therapy, a full complementof diagnostic, imaging and laboratoryservices, and a helipad to be used bySacred Heart’s regional air ambulance

service to provide rapid transport fortraumatized or critically ill patients.

A new Medical Office Building openingin 2011 provides convenient access toprimary care and specialty physicians,dialysis services, women’s imagingand diagnostic services (includingultrasound, bone densitometry anddigital mammography) and Sacred HeartRehabilitation. MRI services, stress testsand pain management services are alsoslated for the facility.

Sacred Heart is part of Ascension Health,the nation’s largest system of Catholic,not-for-profit health care facilities.

P H Y S I C A L A D D R E S S

3801 East Highway 98Port St. Joe, Florida 32456T E L E P H O N E

850.229.5600W E B S I T E

www.SacredHeartontheGulf.org

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Stay abreast of what’s happening in Mexico Beach by visiting theMexico Beach CDC web site at www.Mexico-Beach.com. Plan yournext visit to correspond with exciting community events using theevent calendar, view a live video feed from the beach cam, browsethe video gallery and read the latest community newsletter. It’s theperfect tool for staying connected to the beach!

You’ll find discussion, photosup-to-date information and newfriends at www.facebook.com/Mexico-Beach-FL (or searchMexico Beach, FL).

Search Mexico Beach, FLfor local video on a varietyof subjects including fishing,surfing, weather, special eventsand artificial reef building.

Follow mexicobeachfla onTwitter and stay current withdaily tweets – the perfect wayto make life at the beach partof every day!

Free public access computers(during business hours only)and Wi-Fi service are availableat the Mexico Beach WelcomeCenter – southwest corner ofHighway 98 and Canal Parkway.

It’s easy tokeep in touch!

Police, Fire & Paramedic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911Florida Highway Patrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.872.4150Florida Marine Patrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800.342.5367United States Coast Guard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.234.2475Turtle and Wildlife Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.647.8238

Emergency NumbersMexico Beach City Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.648.5700Mexico Beach City Docks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800.648.2242Mexico Beach Harbor Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.527.7147

Boat Slip RentalMexico Beach Visitor Information . . . . . . . . . . . 850.648.8196Mexico Beach Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.648.2208

Mexico Beach City Services

W A T E R

City of Mexico Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.648.5245P O W E R

Progress Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800.700.8744G A S

St. Joe Natural Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.229.8216T E L E P H O N E

FairPoint Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.229.7231T E L E V I S I O N

MediaCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800.239.8411I N T E R N E T

FairPoint Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.229.7231MediaCom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800.239.8411

Mexico Beach UtilitiesGulf County Visitor Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.229.7800Gulf County Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . 850.227.1223Sacred Heart Hospital on the Gulf . . . . . . . . . . . 850.229.5600Constitution Convention Museum State Park . . 850.229.8029Cape San Blas Lighthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.229.1151St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.227.1327

Cape San BlasDead Lakes County Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.639.2238

WewahitchkaSt. Joseph Bay Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.227.1751

18 Hole Championship Golf Course

Port St. Joe & Gulf County

Christian Fellowship Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.648.8972500 North 15th Street

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints . . . 850.648.8182318 Robin Lane

First Baptist Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.648.5776823 15th Street

First United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 850.648.8820111-A North 22nd Street

Mexico Beach Christian Worship Center . . . . . . 850.648.5773105 North 31st Street (Civic Center)

Mexico Beach Churches

While visiting, tune in to Mexico Beach Channel 4 forlocal happenings and events, drop by the Mexico BeachWelcome Center at the southwest corner of Highway 98and Canal Parkway, or visit the Mexico Beach CommunityDevelopment Council web site at www.Mexico-Beach.com.

For more information about the area, further assistance inplanning your vacation or additional copies of this Visitor’sGuide, please contact the Mexico Beach CommunityDevelopment Council at:T E L E P H O N E M A I L I N G A D D R E S S

850.648.8196 P.O. Box 13382888.723.2546 Mexico Beach, FL 32410F A X I N T E R N E T

850.648.9403 www.Mexico-Beach.com

Need more information?

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MEDIA , LLC

P.O. Box 1014Port St. Joe, FL 32457

850.227.6986

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mexico beach florida 2012 visitor's guide

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