Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Even though walking in sand is more difficult, beach strollers tend to walk for a longer time because of the beauty of their surroundings.

Take time to explore the quiet beauty of the Forgotten Coast’s beaches on foot. Not only are you doing something healthy for your body, but your spirit as well.

Health Benefits of Walking on the Beach:

• The texture of the sand forces your muscles and tendons work over twice as hard as walking on a hard, flat surface
• Has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation
• Strengthens muscles and tendons in the legs and feet
• Burns significantly more calories than walking on a flat surface
• The sand exfoliates the dead skin from your feet as you walk
• Your body will use the sunlight to produce Vitamin D
• Strolling barefoot has many benefits, but for longer walks be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes to avoid potential shin splints and heel tendon pain.
• Since so many of our beaches are pet-friendly, it’s a great way to get exercise with your pup.

Walking on sand can be quite beneficial for your health. However, as with any new physical activity, you want to start slowly and increase your distance walked over time. Even walking can lead to injury if you go for too long or try to go for too great a distance before your muscles are ready.

Best Places to Walk on the Beach Along the Forgotten Coast

• St. George Island
• Cape San Blas
• Mexico Beach
• Dog Island
• St. Joe Beach