The Emerald Coast is the coastal area along the Pensacola to Port St. Joe region of Florida in the Panhandle bordering the Gulf of Mexico. The area is well known for the pristine beaches, untouched sand dunes, parks, fishing, seafood and tranquility. The name was likely inspired by the beautiful emerald-green waters along the sugar white beaches of the panhandle. Some locals in the area call the sand Florida Snow.