Whether it’s swimming in warm Gulf waters or savoring a mouthwatering meal in a historic hole-in-the-wall, Pensacola welcomes everyone in the fam to coastally distance.
Warmer days and rising temps can only mean one thing: It’s officially beach season. But where can a land-locked Tennessean get their fill of Vitamins, Sun, Sand and Surf? The answer lies in a six-hour road trip south to the pristine shores of Pensacola.
Anchored on the western tip of Florida, Pensacola’s access to miles of sugary white sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters makes it the perfect destination to get outdoors, soak up the sun, and enjoy a safer, coastally distant vacation. But the beach isn’t the only thing on the agenda here—in fact, Pensacola offers plenty of family-friendly adventures. Need a bit more convincing? Here are five reasons why your next vacation has Pensacola’s name all over it.
1. FLORIDA’S BEST BEACHES CALL PENSACOLA HOME
Pensacola Beach was named “best Florida beach” in USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards, while Gulf Islands National Seashore earned a nod for “best Florida attraction.” And it’s no surprise — Pensacola’s year-round mild temperatures draw beach lovers, fishing enthusiasts and environmentalists alike. Whether it’s snorkeling through an artificial reef or safely constructing sandcastles approximately 18 Bushwhackers away from your neighbor (that’s about six feet, in vacation terms), there’s a perfect spot in the sand for any beachgoer.
2. FROM FINE DINING TO A CASUAL COASTAL CUISINE, THERE ARE PLENTY OF OPTIONS TO FUEL YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Have a hankering for freshly caught seafood? Craving Cajun cooking or a hearty Italian dish? Pensacola has you covered. Funky food trucks, historic hole-in-the-walls, and white tablecloth eateries cater to all tastes and experiences. The views offer plenty to write home about, too—sparkling ocean crests and charming old-town architecture make a standout meal a simply unforgettable experience.
3. PENSACOLA’S MADE HISTORY AS AMERICA’S OLDEST SETTLEMENT
Did you know that researchers at the University of West Florida found that Spanish explorer Tristan de Luna established his Spanish colony of Pensacola in August 1559—six years before St. Augustine? That’s right, Pensacola also offers a crash course in history as America’s first multi-year European settlement. Historic Pensacola encompasses eight and a half acres and 28 properties located within the footprints of the original Spanish and British forts in downtown Pensacola. Take a self-guided tour of historic homes and watch period-dressed living history interpreters before dipping into one of Pensacola’s unique museums.
4. THE DOWNTOWN SCENE DAZZLES WITH FAMILY-FRIENDLY CULTURE, MUSIC, AND ART
The beating heart of Downtown Pensacola, Palafox Street was named one of the “10 Great Streets in America” by the American Planning Association, and for good reason — Palafox Street has grown from a humble thoroughfare built in 1812 to a bustling urban center filled with boutiques and retail shops, casual and fine dining restaurants, art and cultural institutions, and live music and theatrical venues that all reside within a harmonious blend of historical architectural styles. Palafox has a little bit of something for everyone, making it a can’t-miss destination for your itinerary.
5. ONE OF PENSACOLA’S BEST-KEPT SECRETS IS AN UNSPOILED OASIS OF NATURE AND SUN
Spanish for “lost island,” Perdido Key is home to the Gulf Islands National Seashore and remains a Southern sanctuary for both people and wildlife. This barrier island is bookmarked by rolling, white-sand dunes and stunning views of the calm Gulf waters, abundant wetlands, estuaries, and wildlife. Take in all of the solitary splendor as you kayak the waterways, walk a trail, watch dolphins, or charter a boat—there are endless ways to explore this tranquil retreat of natural beauty. It’s the ultimate way to coastally distance.