most southern panhandle town

Question

Looking to go to the panhandle, want the powder white sand beaches and a walkable little town. We're driving from Orlando. What's the closest town? Have a baby and would prefer to drive the shortest distance. I know it's far, but if there's a nice place 4 hours instead of 6 hours from us, we'd choose that.

Answer

If you’re driving from Orlando and want to experience the southernmost part of Florida’s Panhandle with powder-white sand beaches and a walkable town, your best options are in the South Walton and Gulf County areas. These locations are slightly closer than Destin or Pensacola, which are further west and can be a longer drive with a baby.

Here are some towns to consider:

Panama City Beach: About 4.5 to 5 hours from Orlando, it offers long stretches of white sand beaches and a family-friendly vibe. The downtown area has some walkable spots with restaurants and shops, though it is more resort-focused.
Port St. Joe: Around 5 hours from Orlando, this is quieter and very walkable, with a charming historic district and access to St. Joseph Peninsula State Park for pristine beaches. Great for a calm, family-friendly visit.
Mexico Beach: About 5 hours away, a small, peaceful town with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. It is more low-key than Panama City Beach, ideal for a family with a baby.
Seaside (30A area): Approximately 5.5 hours from Orlando. This town is extremely walkable, with boutique shops, cafes, and stunning sugar-white sand beaches. Very family-friendly but can be pricier during peak seasons.

Driving Tips:

Plan for frequent stops when traveling with a baby; each of these towns is accessible via I-75 and US-98, but having a break every 2–3 hours can make the trip much easier.
Consider staying in towns like Port St. Joe or Mexico Beach if minimizing drive time is your priority, as these are slightly closer and less crowded.
If you’re okay with a slightly longer drive for a more walkable, picturesque town, Seaside or Rosemary Beach along 30A are excellent choices with vibrant town centers and beach access.

In summary, for the shortest drive from Orlando with powder-white sand beaches and a walkable town, Panama City Beach, Port St. Joe, or Mexico Beach are your best bets. For a slightly longer drive but with iconic walkable beach towns, consider Seaside or Rosemary Beach.

most southern panhandle town

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