Despite urban growth around Pensacola and the expansion of tourism along the Gulf Coast, the Big Lagoon area remained relatively untouched through the mid-20th century. However, as coastal development exploded in the 1960s and 1970s—fueled by highways, condos, and beach resorts—concern grew over the loss of wetlands, estuaries, and native ha

Pensacola Bay, near Big Lagoon, became a focal point for colonial rivalry between Spain, Britain, and France during the 17th and 18th centuries. Control over this stretch of the Gulf Coast changed hands numerous times. Spain first established a settlement at Pensacola in 1698. Britain controlled the area from 1763 to 1781. Spain reg

Introduction Tucked between the sparkling Gulf of Mexico and the historic city of Pensacola, Florida, lies Big Lagoon State Park—a serene, biodiverse expanse of salt marshes, pine flatwoods, and coastal forests. This 705-acre park, established in 1977, forms part of the fragile and beautiful ecological transition between land and sea in the Flor

Like many coastal parks, Bahia Honda faces ongoing challenges: Hurricanes and Storm Surge: Hurricanes like Irma (2017) caused significant damage to park facilities and ecosystems. Recovery efforts continue. Coral Bleaching and Ocean Acidification: As nearby coral reefs are affected by warming waters and pollution, marine biodiversity is a