Cantonment Travel Guide

Explore the hidden gems of Cantonment, Florida with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your itinerary to visit the best tourist attractions, hiking/biking routes, and food and drink spots, along with handy tips on where to stay, what to buy, and local customs.


Cantonment is a beautiful small town nestled in the Florida Panhandle, surrounded by lush green forests and stunning natural attractions. It’s a hidden gem that’s worth exploring for anyone looking to escape the bustling city life and experience peace and tranquility.

Introduction to Cantonment

Cantonment, Florida, is a quiet and peaceful town located in Escambia County in the westernmost part of Florida. This small town is known for its serene natural beauty, crystal-clear lakes, unspoiled beaches, and a fascinating history. Cantonment is a perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the noise and chaos of big cities and take a break in a tranquil environment.

List of Places to Visit in Cantonment

Cantonment has several attractions that are worth exploring during your visit. We’ve divided them into two categories: culturally important attractions and natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum - A historic lighthouse that offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico.
  2. Fort Barrancas - A historic fort built by the Spanish in 1797 and later used by the US Army.
  3. National Naval Aviation Museum - A museum that displays the history of naval aviation in the United States.
  4. Pensacola Museum of Art - An art museum that showcases the works of local and international artists.

Natural Attractions of Cantonment: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Perdido Key State Park - A pristine beach with crystal-clear waters that is perfect for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing.
  2. Blackwater River State Park - A park with a river that offers canoeing, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
  3. Big Lagoon State Park - A park that has a lake and several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding forests.
  4. Gulf Islands National Seashore - A national park that has several beaches, hiking trails, and campgrounds that offer scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cantonment

Cantonment has several hiking and biking routes that offer scenic views of the surrounding forests, lakes, and rivers. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  1. UWF Nature Trails - A 2.8-mile trail that offers scenic views of the UWF campus and the surrounding forests.
  2. Florida Trail - A trail that stretches over 1,300 miles and offers scenic views of the Florida Panhandle region.
  3. Blackwater Heritage Trail - A 9.5-mile trail that runs through the Blackwater River State Park and offers views of the river.
  4. Tarklin Bayou Preserve State Park - A park with a 4.5-mile trail that offers views of the Tarkiln Bayou and a wide variety of wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Cantonment: Activities and Tours

Cantonment offers a wide variety of activities and tours that provide a unique and memorable experience for tourists. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  1. Dolphin-Watching Tours - A tour that takes you on a boat ride to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
  2. Zipline Adventures - A zipline course that offers scenic views of the forests and lakes of the area.
  3. Deep-Sea Fishing Charters - A tour that takes you on a fishing trip to catch a wide variety of fish in the Gulf of Mexico.
  4. Ghost Tour of Pensacola - A tour that takes you on a journey through the haunted streets of Pensacola, with stops at historic buildings with paranormal activity.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cantonment

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Cantonment that offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions:

Day 1 – Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum + Perdido Key State Park Day 2 – Blackwater River State Park + Zipline Adventures Day 3 – National Naval Aviation Museum + Dolphin-Watching Tours Day 4 – Fort Barrancas + Tarklin Bayou Preserve State Park Day 5 – Pensacola Museum of Art + Ghost Tour of Pensacola Day 6 – Big Lagoon State Park + Deep-Sea Fishing Charters Day 7 – Free day to explore Cantonment’s shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Food and Drink Scene of Cantonment

Cantonment has a diverse food and drink scene that offers a mix of local and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fried Catfish - A popular dish that consists of crispy fried catfish and a side of hushpuppies.
  2. Grits & Grillades - A breakfast dish that consists of grilled beef with a tangy tomato-based sauce served over creamy grits.
  3. Seafood Boil - A southern classic that features a variety of boiled seafood such as shrimp, crab, and crawfish.
  4. Dreamland BBQ - A local barbecue restaurant that serves some of the best ribs in the town.

Local Beverages

  1. Sweet Tea - A classic southern beverage that is made with tea and sugar and served over ice.
  2. Bayou Beer - A locally brewed beer that is available in several restaurants and bars in the town.
  3. Bushwacker - A popular cocktail that consists of vanilla ice cream, dark rum, and chocolate syrup.

Where to Stay in Cantonment: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cantonment offers several accommodation options for tourists, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some options:

  1. Holiday Inn Express & Suites - A modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
  2. Hampton Inn & Suites - A contemporary hotel that offers an indoor pool, a fitness center, and free breakfast.
  3. Lake Stone Bed & Breakfast - A cozy bed and breakfast that offers an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and free breakfast.
  4. Hostel Bahia Mar - A hostel that offers budget-friendly dorm rooms and private rooms and is located close to the beach.

What to Buy in Cantonment: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cantonment has several shops and markets that offer locally made products, including handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and local food products such as honey and preserves. Here are some recommended places:

  1. Cottage Antiques and Gifts - A shop that offers a mix of antiques, crafts, and jewelry.
  2. Palafox Market - A farmers’ market that offers locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and food products.
  3. Perdido Bay Farmers Market - A farmers’ market that offers fresh produce, handmade soaps, and other local products.

Local Culture and Customs of Cantonment

Cantonment is a small town with a friendly and welcoming community. The locals are proud of their heritage and culture and are happy to share it with tourists. The town has a mix of southern and coastal cultures, which is reflected in its food, art, and music. It’s important to respect the local customs and traditions while visiting.

Best Time to Visit Cantonment

The best time to visit Cantonment is in the fall and winter months when the weather is cool and comfortable, and the crowds are fewer. The spring and summer months can be hot and humid and are popular with tourists, but it can be crowded at tourist attractions, and the prices can be high.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cantonment

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Explore the natural attractions such as parks, lakes, and beaches.
  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  4. Bring sunscreen and protective clothing.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or disturb the local environment.
  2. Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  3. Ignore the safety warnings of the outdoor attractions.
  4. Forget to carry cash for small shops and markets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cantonment

Cantonment is generally a safe town, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Keep an eye on belongings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places.

Health in Cantonment

Cantonment has several medical facilities that provide emergency services and routine medical care. Tourists should carry health insurance and necessary medications for any pre-existing conditions.

Getting to Cantonment: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cantonment is easily accessible by road and air. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Cantonment

  1. Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - 11 miles away
  2. Destin Executive Airport (DTS) - 71 miles away

Bus Stations Near Cantonment

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines - Pensacola bus station - 14 miles away.

Other Options

  1. Private car/taxi - Several car rental companies and taxi services are available in the town.

How to Get Around in Cantonment

Cantonment is a small town, and it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. However, renting a car is recommended if you want to explore the surrounding areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Cantonment: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cantonment is located close to several popular destinations such as Pensacola, Mobile, and Destin. Here are some nearby places to explore:

  1. Pensacola Beach - A pristine beach that’s located just 30 minutes away.
  2. Mobile, Alabama - A historic city that’s located 1.5 hours away.
  3. Destin - A popular tourist destination that’s located 1.5 hours away.

Conclusion

Cantonment, Florida, is a perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the noise and chaos of big cities and experience peace and tranquility. This hidden gem has much to offer, from its pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails to its rich culture and friendly locals. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to explore the best attractions, food, and cultures, and create unforgettable memories.