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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The 9th Annual Holiday Haul on Palafox

For its 9th year in a row, the streets of Downtown Pensacola will come alive for a street-wide holiday open house. Shoppers can take advantage of the best shopping deals of the year while soaking up festive magic and taking part in the community tree lighting ceremony. 

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Nov 05 - Nov 05, 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

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Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival

One of the most popular arts festivals in the United States, this event is a three-day juried show that attracts over 200 artists nationwide. The festival offers live music, performances, a student art show, and even a Children’s Art Festival with activities for the kids to enjoy. Enjoy free admission and a day full of fun!

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Nov 07 - Nov 09, 2025

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Vino Magnifico - Monthly Wine Experience

Join V. Paul's Italian Ristorante for Vino Magnifico, a signature monthly wine tasting event celebrating Italian varietals and global selections. Each session features curated pairings, small plates, and insights from the sommelier team. A must-attend evening for Pensacola wine lovers and Italian cuisine enthusiasts alike!

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Nov 11, 2025

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Pesacola Winterfest

The Pensacola Winterfest offers a daily supply of festive activities all the way through Christmas Eve! Take in the beautifully transformed Plaza Wonderland with trolley tours, live performances from a cast of holiday favorites, visits from Santa and more! 

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Nov 21 - Dec 24, 2025

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Snowball Derby

One of the biggest pavement short track racing events, the 58th annual Snowball Derby returns to the Five Flags Speedway for another exciting weekend. 

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Dec 04 - Dec 07, 2025

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The Lighted Boat Parade

Celebrate the holidays with the dazzling Holiday Lighted Boat Parade in Pensacola Beach, Florida! Watch boats of all sizes, shapes and colors compete in the annual contest as they cruise through the canal. The parade begins around Little Sabine at 6:30 p.m. and ends at Quietwater/Soundside and after, stay for Santa’s grand arrival in his sleigh. Prizes will be awarded to the "Most Merry" and "Best in Show" boats. 

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Dec 05 - Dec 05, 2025