Pensacola and nearby Pensacola Beach are great places to unwind from the human race. The relaxed, low-key area is a delight for those looking to slow their hurried pace for awhile. Located at the west end of the Florida panhandle, the area is best known for its many miles of pristine snow-white beaches. Sand dunes decorated with delicate sea oats accent the coast. With so many miles of beach it is easy to find a secluded spot away from it all. However, in an effort to reduce development impact and help keep the area in its pristine state, parking is limited.
Pensacola boasts many beautiful parks with fountains, play areas and often water access. Feed the ducks at Bayview Park on Bayou Texar. Watch an osprey return to its nest with a freshly caught fish at Big Lagoon State Park. Public boat ramps allow for fun on the water, pick up a copy of the Florida Boater's Guide from the Marine Patrol across from the Visitors Information Center at the foot of the Bay Bridge.
If white sands and relaxation are what you seek, then look no further. Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key can offer you days of fun in the sun while basking on our soft white sands.
Pensacola Beach is the hub of Santa Rosa Island, one of the longest barrier islands in the world.
The Gulf Islands National Seashore covers much of the island, keeping beaches accessible to the public and preserving the area's environment and history.
Restaurants, shops and entertainment abound on Pensacola Beach. To get a different view of the shore, stroll the Pensacola Beach Pier, or try one of our many watersports. From parasailing and sailing to deep sea fishing and surfing, you'll never run out of fun things to do at Pensacola Beach. The calendar is filled with special events and public pavilions provide free jazz, blues, rock and country music several nights a week during warm weather.
Beaches on Santa Rosa Island
- Casino Beach - Located in the heart of Pensacola Beach and named for the old casino building that held dances and special events, Casino Beach lies beneath the famous beach ball water tank and is home to Gulfside Pavilion, the venue for many free concerts.
- Gulf Islands National Seashore - There are two points to visit the Seashore! Stroll, bike, hike, surf, or enjoy solitude.
- Langdon Beach - Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, Langdon Beach is located west of Pensacola Beach.
- Opal Beach - Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, Opal Beach is approximately three miles east of Pensacola Beach.
- Quietwater Beach - To your left past the tollbooth, Quietwater is aptly named and lines Santa Rosa Sound. It's safe and shallow for little ones.
The city of Pensacola is rich in history. European settlers first established a colony here in 1559 some six years before St. Augustine which is the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the country. Downtown Pensacola is an unhurried community with a blend of Spanish and French architecture. The Seville Square Historic District is an area of restored 19th century buildings that now houses a pleasant collection of shops, restaurants, offices, and museums.Naval Aviation Museum The area provides a glimpse into the city's past. A great way to get a quick tour of Pensacola is via the local Trolley. This 25 cent narrated tour is one of the best deals anywhere.
Nearby at the Pensacola Naval Air Station is the National Museum of Naval Aviation.Naval Aviation Museum For aviation enthusiasts this is a must-see exhibit - and its free! Over 130 vintage and modern military aircraft are on display in this 291,000 square foot, immaculate museum. This is a very impressive facility.
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