Pensacola Beach Vacation Information

Pensacola Beach is famous for its white-sand beaches, emerald waters, and the Southern hospitality that makes visitors feel right at home. Located south of Pensacola and connected via bridges to the mainland, it’s part of Santa Rosa Island, a 40-mile barrier island facing the Gulf of Mexico. With approximately 343 sunny days per year and an average temperature of 77 degrees, Pensacola Beach is an ideal vacation destination year-round ­– whether your idea of a good time is lounging on the sand, shopping till you drop, or playing a leisurely round of golf.

For the athletically inclined, swimming, fishing, diving, snorkeling, and sailing are all popular options. You’ll find additional recreational opportunities at Gulf Islands National Seashore, which flanks either end of Pensacola Beach. Nature trails wind through the park’s coastal marshes and live oak forests, which host both native and migrating bird populations. Offshore, submerged lands teeming with marine life invite exploration by divers and snorkelers. The area is also home to the Pensacola Naval Air Station. The air station, which has earned Pensacola recognition as the Cradle of Naval Aviation (all Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine aviators start their training in Pensacola), is the base for the famed Blue Angels, the United States Navy’s flight demonstration squadron. Also at the air station is the National Museum of Naval Aviation and IMAX Theater, a popular stop for visitors of all ages.

With a history that dates back to 1559, the city of Pensacola offers another fascinating break from the beach. Older than St. Augustine, which was founded in 1565, and Jamestown, founded in 1607, its historic neighborhoods still hold reminders of a past when it was ruled, in turn, by Spain, France, England, the Confederacy, and the United States.

Other special events – concerts, arts and crafts shows, seafood festivals, Blue Angels air shows, and more – keep visitors entertained throughout the year.

Book a Pensacola Beach Vacation rental online, or call a friendly BeachGuide vacation planner seven days a week at 888-404-2602.


Upcoming Events

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Pensacola Beach Songwriters' Festival

The annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters' Festival is a cherished event set at a variety of venues around town. Songwriters themselves will introduce you to the story behind the song as local and national artists take you behind-the-scenes of their music. This year's highlights include two-time Grammy winner Rebecca Lynn Howard, Jerry Vandiver, Kensie Coppin and American roots artist Mudbone as a part of the 13-day event. Visit the official website for the full schedule, venues and more artist details. 

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Sep 30 - Oct 12, 2025

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Taste of the Beach Festival

Sample the best of Pensacola Beach dining at the Taste of the Beach Festival! This daylong event will feature showcase dishes from iconic restaurant alongside a free concert, beer tastings, a team cooking challenge, souvenir sales and more. 

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Oct 09 - Oct 11, 2025

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Pensacola Interstate Fair

The Pensacola Interstate Fair is one of the largest events on the Gulf Coast that has attracted thousands of visitors for years. Boasting over 60 rides, loads of food and a variety of exhibits, the fair is always bustling with excitement. Don't miss out on a memorable, fun-filled eleven days as you wander from booth to booth featuring everything from classic eats, top-name performers and engaging exhibits. 

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Oct 16 - Oct 26, 2025

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Beach-O-Ween

Beach-O-Ween offers spooky Halloween fun for all ages! Grab your best costume and head down to the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk for incredible amounts of candy and festive activities. There will also be a costume contest with a trophy for 1st and 2nd place. 

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Oct 27, 2025

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Foo Foo Fest 2025: Afterburn

Afterburn is a unique, colorful aerial art instillation that will fly high above Intendencia Street in historic downtown Pensacola. Created by the world-renowned artist Tomislave Topic, the addition to the 2025 Foo Foo Festival pays homage to Pensacola's Blue Angels demonstration flight team and their ability to shift and move with the breeze. 

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Oct 30 - Nov 10, 2025

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Foo Foo Festival 2025

The Foo Foo Festival is a 12-day cultural celebration showcasing artistic and creative happenings. The festival includes a variety of art, history, musical and culinary events along with more eclectic cultural showings that come together and contribute to the fantastic celebration. Some events are free while others require a ticket, but simply look at the event’s specific page for more information.

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Nov 01 - Nov 10, 2025

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41st Annual Frank Brown Songwriters' Festival

In its 41st year, the songwriters' festival will feature over 200 nationally acclaimed songwriters across different venues in the Alabama/Florida Gulf Coast. Learn the stories behind the words in a way that can only be taught by the authors themselves at this highly anticipated event.  

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Nov 06 - Nov 16, 2025

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NAS Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

One of Pensacola's largest events, this free air show offers aerobatic performers and Pensacola's very own Blue Angels. Gates open at 8:00 AM, and the show begins at 9:30 AM. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own seating but paid seating is also available for purchase.

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Nov 07 - Nov 08, 2025