Pensacola Beach: The Destination for Adventure

Sink beneath the clear, blue waters of Pensacola Beach and find a summer cool spot! Named one of the nation’s top, budget vacation locations by the Travel Channel, the beaches of Pensacola have long been an adventurer’s paradise. For more than 450 years, treasure-seekers plundered this southern coast feasting on its natural resources. Today, Pensacola’s beaches offer more than an endless supply of succulent seafood - there’s something for everyone!

Shell-seekers will hit pay dirt - or sand - on the country’s largest protected shoreline - the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Carry your pail and shovel and unearth colorful shell treasures from the sea. Dip your toes in the surf and snorkel in the clear waters to find even unexpected, hidden riches.

Spend quality time with your family without hearing, “I’m bored!” Rent a pedal buggy for an hour or two of fun or kayak in pairs taking in the sights along the pristine shoreline. Live a little and try parasailing with your sweetheart. Once your feet hit the ground, enjoy a fruity, tropical beverage while swaying to the tunes of a local beach concert. Step into a spirited volleyball game or cast out a line for surf fishing off Pensacola Beach. If you happen to come up empty - no worries! No one ever goes hungry in Pensacola. Take your pick of seafood dishes from some of the region’s finest eateries. Even the smallest, pickiest eater in your group will find a delicious dish to snack on.

Landlubbers don’t have to hit the waves to entertain themselves. Bring along a pair of binoculars and observe the many birds and a favorite, aquatic animal - the dolphin. What else will you see? Sea turtles! Please look but don’t touch. You won’t need those glasses if the Navy’s Blue Angels fly overhead. It’s a heart-thumping, once in a lifetime sight! Check out the Visit Pensacola website for their next scheduled appearance.

Strap on scuba gear and explore the world’s largest artificial reef, the sunken USS Oriskany. Natural limestone reefs provide an endless supply of breathtaking underwater sights. One fun-loving couple recently tied the knot -- underwater on the bow of a shipwreck!

Snorkelers, amateurs and die-hards, will have hours of fun in the brilliant, hidden world of Pensacola waters. This handy beach map highlights additional points of interest and beach access information.  

When the day is done, stroll along the white sands and relax to the sounds of a soothing, ocean serenade. Or, if you aren’t totally wiped out, dance under the stars and get swept away on your Pensacola vacation. It’s a trip you’ll always remember.