The Panhandle: Places to Explore

Pensacola Beach

One of the longest barrier islands in the world, Pensacola Beach offers a low-key, family-friendly feel with many local hangouts, fishing galore, and historic Fort Pickens. Connected to Pensacola by two long bridges, the island offers both a gulf-front and "sound" side for those seeking a calmer seaside experience. Public beaches abound in the area, including Casino Beach at the tip of Pensacola Beach Road, which offers live entertainment at its pavilion in the summer, as well as showers and bathrooms. Quietwater Beach Boardwalk, across the street from Casino Beach, also offers boutique shopping, eateries, nightlife, and shopping.

Long home to chain hotels as well as locally owned motels, the beach has opened a number of condominiums and resorts in recent years. And don't forget to rent a bike or take a drive to explore both Fort Pickens Road and J. Earle Bowden Way (which connects Pensacola Beach to the Navarre Beach area), which have reopened after many years of being closed to vehicular traffic and offer breathtaking, unobstructed views of the gulf.

Pensacola Beach at a Glance

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Sports and Outdoors

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Elsewhere in The Panhandle

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