10 Best Beaches in Pensacola, FL
If you like sparkling sands and emerald waters, Pensacola is just the place for you.
It is the perfect getaway for tourists who want to walk beaches that are free from crowds and clutter.
Come along as we explore the top ten beaches for your next seaside getaway!
- Gulf Islands National Seashore
With its azure waters and gorgeous white sand beaches, this national seashore stretches 160 miles.
Why We Recommend This Beach
An abundance of wonders can be found at Gulf Islands National Seashore.
There are picturesque winding roads as well as magnificent sea forests and coastal wetlands.
Expert Tip
Relive your beach vacation with a visit to the historic Barrancas Fort.
Built-in 1844 with 6 million bricks, the fortress is a famous civil war relic.
- Perdido Key Beach
This barrier island in the majestic Gulf Islands National Coast is well-known for its bay views and dunes.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Perdido Key is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in the area.
With its enchanting combination of southern charm, coastal life, and natural beauty, this island has been enticing visitors for years.
Furthermore, visitors to this waterfront sanctuary can also see a variety of wildlife.
Expert Tip
Summer is a good time to go to the Beach, but fall is the best time to visit Key Perdido.
With fewer people, you can just about have the Beach all to yourself.
And unlike other areas, Perdido Key is warm in the fall with cool breezes at night.
- Perdido Key State Recreation Area
Founded in 1978, this 247-acre park attracts visitors with its undeniable natural beauty.
Why We Recommend This Beach
If you are looking for the best things to do in Pensacola, be sure to add this recreation area to your list.
Pensacola’s sugar-white dunes and beaches make this waterfront haven a nature lover’s paradise.
This peaceful and spotless state park also offers swimming, sunbathing, canoeing, and surf fishing.
Expert Tip
With no restaurants and shops in the park, you’ll need to bring your food, beverages, beach chairs, and other necessities.
There are also no campsites in the park, but a campground is near Big Lagoon.
- Fort Pickens
Are you a lover of history?
This 850-acre military fort was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Fort Pickens is known for more than its Civil War remnants and historical wonders.
In fact, it is home to one of the most beautiful beaches on the Florida Gulf Coast, Langdon Beach.
This fully equipped Beach has parking, restrooms, a picnic pavilion, and lifeguards in summer.
Expert Tip
Make a stop by the Discovery Center, and witness the fort’s history, wildlife, and nature in all its majesty.
- Big Lagoon State Park
Founded in 1977, Big Lagoon State Park offers numerous outdoor activities and entertainment.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Searching for family-friendly beaches? Big Lagoon State Park is just right for you and your family.
With shallow bays and waters, it’s the safest Beach for your kids.
The nature trails, saltwater marshes, ranger-guided tours, and birds will leave your kids asking for more.
Expert Tip
Pack snacks, drinks, and lunch, and enjoy a meal at the West Beach picnic area.
Shaded by oak and pine, this area is a great place to dine and relax after non-stop beach fun.
- Opal Beach
Created accidentally in 1995 by nature, this sparkling white sandy Beach is a hidden gem.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Opal Beach is Northwest Florida’s best-known secret.
Immaculate and untouched, this serene paradise is the perfect antidote to a busy and stressful lifestyle.
And on the Beach, you’ll want to take countless pictures of the magical and vivid scenery.
Expert Tip
There are picnic shelters, and drinking water available at the
Beach.
- Casino Beach
Located in the heart of Pensacola Beach, Casino Beach is a great choice for families.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Casino Beach offers Families endless opportunities for recreation and entertainment.
Relax in the sun, admire the sparkling water and watch the stress melt away.
As a bonus, it has many amenities, including a fishing pier, lifeguards, changing rooms, and restrooms.
Expert Tip
Stop by the 1,471-foot Pensacola Beach fishing pier for stunning views.
You can also enjoy a variety of entertainment and food at this pier.
- Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve
In 1829, this preserve was part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Pensacola’s Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve is a great beach near the city.
Its waterfront and wooded areas make it an ideal place for walking and wading.
Needless to say, it is a picturesque haven for many protected plants, birds, and small animals.
Expert Tip
Enjoy the scenery and ecosystems of the Naval Live Oaks Area by hiking the 6-mile loop trail.
- Navarre Beach
This Beach features 12 miles of tantalizing, pristine white shoreline along Florida’s North-western edge.
Why We Recommend This Beach
The solitude and simplicity of Navarre Beach make it a perfect place for a relaxing vacation.
On its massive 1545-foot-long pier, you can spot dolphins and linger on serene coves without a crowd.
Expert Tip
Are you an animal lover?
Catch a glimpse of sea turtle nests on the Beach between May and October.
- Pensacola Beach
Set perfectly on Santa Rosa Island, this beach community is one of the most popular beaches in Pensacola.
Why We Recommend This Beach
Renowned for its stunning Gulf Coast views, this resort is home to some of the best beaches in Pensacola, Florida.
With soothing waves and emerald water, this strip is also one of Pensacola’s best beaches.
Expert Tip
Make a visit to the Beach in winter.
Apart from slimmer crowds, dolphins are also common in winter.
