Mexico Beach: A Hidden Gem Rebuilding After Hurricane Michael's Wrath

Mexico Beach, Florida, USA - Mexico Beach, nestled on the east end of Bay County, Florida, stands out as a true hidden gem along the Gulf Coast. With its beautiful beaches and small-town charm, the community prioritizes natural beauty over the hustle and bustle of commercial attractions. As the summer tourist season peaks, both residents and visitors alike revel in the area’s inviting white sandy beaches and clear emerald waters. Local fishing is thriving, thanks to the nearby artificial reefs, making it a fisherman’s paradise.

“This town embodies the old Florida charm and laid-back vibe,” says Kimberly Shoaf, the president of the Mexico Beach Community Development Council. She expresses the community’s commitment to maintaining a close-knit atmosphere, where tourism serves as the largest economic driver. Although the town has fewer attractions compared to other destinations, its focus on local businesses and natural surroundings resonates with those looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots.

A Strive for Recovery

Mexico Beach has worked diligently to recover from the devastation left behind by Hurricane Michael, a Category 5 storm that struck in October 2018. The community is nearly seven years post-hurricane and has overcome substantial challenges, yet it remains dedicated to preserving its unique character amid ongoing changes. The tragedy of the storm highlighted the importance of the beach and shoreline to the local tourism industry, as pointed out by Shoaf.

Building upon this spirit of recovery is a major beach nourishment project currently underway. As detailed by MexicoBeach.com, this initiative aims to restore the town’s three-mile shoreline, which spans from the Mexico Beach Canal to the Gulf County line. The project involves constructing a dry sandy beach berm and dune structures, providing both storm protection and recreational benefits.

Details of the Project

In total, nearly one million cubic yards of sand will be placed, extending approximately 175 feet from the proposed dune. Construction is anticipated to take about three months, with potential weather delays. Managed by the Bay County Tourist Development Council, the Mexico Beach Community Development Council, and Bay County, the project is contracted at a cost of $27,180,950. Funding comes through several grants from the State of Florida and federal sources, underscoring the community’s resilience and determination to rebuild.

As reported by WJHG, the project partners are also using sand sourced from an authorized offshore area about three miles away. Residents and visitors can look forward to a restored beach that not only enhances the local scenery but also supports the sustainability of nesting shorebirds and sea turtles through the restoration of native vegetation.

For those concerned about beach access, rest assured that while construction is ongoing, beachgoers can still enjoy the shore, even though access may vary around active work areas. The beach will undergo post-construction tilling to prepare for sea turtle nesting season. As the community continues to rebuild and reimagine itself, the focus remains on creating a destination that invites all to enjoy the beauty of Mexico Beach.

To learn more about this charming town or to get more information about the ongoing beach restoration project, stop by the Mexico Beach Welcome Center located at 102 Canal Pkwy or call them at 850-648-8196.