Nice quiet space next to beach. You can sit on benches to reflect or take the short walk around the…read morepark.

Historically ridden place. In the best way. There's a fort…read morehere. Actually. Unlike some other places the ruins here exist with old cannons and beautiful arched brick. We've not explored them and mainly visit for the beaches. Military can receive a free lifetime pass for national parks so the entry fee is waived here. I greatly appreciate. My husband loves to bike here. I love to come and see the Inlet. You can go to the Bayside or you can go to the Oceanside. There's also some older probably early 1900 homes scattered about the property from another iteration of its use. There's also I believe World War I one or World War II bunkers present here so this state Park has had many different lives and leaves quite a legacy. We've driven through the campgrounds which look really nice. And the stretch of golf here is substantial. You could definitely find a place to be all on your own if you were willing to walk. The facilities are nice. There are restrooms but parking can be limited at the beach lots on the gulf side when driving in. It's an extensive park and a very long stretch. The water is incredible. It's turquoise jello on the right days.

Fort Pickens Beach, situated within the Gulf Islands National Seashore, is a picturesque stretch of…read morecoastline that boasts a rich history, diverse amenities, and stunning natural beauty. Located on the western end of Santa Rosa Island in Pensacola, Florida, this lovely destination has played a crucial role in American history and continues to attract visitors seeking relaxation, adventure, sun, fun, and a glimpse into the past as well. Fort Pickens, which was named after Revolutionary War hero Andrew Pickens, was initially built as a United States military fort in the 19th century. Its construction was part of the Third System of coastal fortifications aimed at protecting the Gulf Coast from overseas threats. The fort remained in Union hands throughout the Civil War, serving as a significant stronghold against Confederate forces. In the years following the war, Fort Pickens continued to serve various purposes, including as a prison during the Indian Wars and a military outpost during World War II. Today, the fort stands as a testament to the region's complex past, offering guided and self-guided tours that allow visitors to explore its well-preserved structures and learn about its storied history. Fort Pickens Beach, which stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico, offers a has great recreational activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. The powdery white sand and clear waters provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Beachgoers can also take advantage of the area's picnic facilities, which include pavilions, grills, and restrooms. Within the Fort Pickens area of Gulf Islands National Seashore, there is a 7-mile stretch of undeveloped beach, providing ample space for to enjoy the beautiful coastal environment. This includes three parking lots where visitors can stop and spend time at one of the most beautiful wild beaches in Florida. Along with the beach areas, with various campgrounds, which are attractive, lightly wooded compounds across the street from the beach. For those seeking a more active experience, there's several hiking trails that wind through the area's diverse landscapes. The Bluebird Marsh Trail, for example, is popular among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, while the Fort Pickens Trail provides a scenic route for bikers and runners. Additionally, the beach is a prime spot for fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling, for exploring the vibrant marine life that inhabits the surrounding waters. There were a lot of people fishing when I was there this week but I didn't see any big ones hauled in, but that's any given day when you're fishing :-) As part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Fort Pickens Beach benefits from the National Park Service's commitment to preserving and protecting the area's natural resources. Visitors can participate in ranger-led programs, which cover topics such as the local flora and fauna, the area's history, and the importance of conservation efforts. We sat with a park range who did a great talk about local seashells, and I found very interesting! Prices vary to enter daily, $25 per car, and there's annual passes available, and veterans, like my honey and I, are free. Bottom line: Fort Pickens Beach is a captivating blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty that draws visitors from near and far. With its fascinating past, diverse amenities, and stunning coastal scenery, this Gulf Coast gem provides an unforgettable experience for those who venture to its shores.

Best place in the whole Pensacola. I really recommend if you are visiting for the first time. It…read moregets incredibly full during Mardi Gras and other major events. There's a large variation of restaurants and stores to visit. I love that they have Senior Frogs, Hooters, Papa's Pizza, Crabs, Flounders, and many more awesome restaurants. I love the Beach and you can visit the inner-coast. Honestly, what I would change is that I would make it longer like South Florida. The best boardwalk I've been to is like Hallandale/Hollywood Beach. I wouldn't do the pop up markets at either side of the Pensacola Board walk though because it's very expensive to participate with very little to no profit.

This beach is absolutely beautiful but beware of rip currents and jelly fish…read more This was our 2nd stop and it was breathtaking. I love the large parking area and ramps that give you easy access to the Beach. There is a charge to use the fishing pier but from what I could see, it was worth it to those that were fishing. Tons of fish , pelicans, dolphins but also jelly fish. Water was crisp and clean and cool and perfect for a Florida summer morning.

Super easy to find via GPS and plenty of (free) parking in their own lot (situated with a bunch of…read morerestaurants). Came during down time so the beach was empty but oh so beautiful with clean white sand and clear water!

Cute little area to stop and walk around! The little pier is nice to walk on and look at the water…read moreand there are a bunch of restaurants and shopping nearby!

Searching for true Love & Forgiveness? Talk to GOD and get a…read moreDOG! #ReflectDogs Love & Forgiveness And I assume old growth always shaded Beach Island dog park that has the most eclectic blend of seating I think I've ever seen. The park is large enough that your dogs can run or do whatever they want, it has places to sit all over the place as well as poop bag dispensers every here and there and trash cans. It has a nice water area as well as a agility item course tucked in one corner. It just kind of parked next to the dog park and there are two double gated entry areas. But mostly just be ready to relax and watch your dog have fun

Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is the pinnacle of Pensacola. If you want the real Gulf Coast experience,…read morethis is the spot. The pier stretches about 1,471 feet out into the Gulf, and the water is so clear you can see straight down like you're looking through glass. Schools of fish cruise by, anglers line the rails pulling up mackerel and pompano, and every once in a while you'll see something bigger glide through the blue. I've seen rays, sharks, and more fish than I could count swimming right below my feet. It feels like standing above a living aquarium. The original pier here dates back to the 1930s, but the modern one was rebuilt stronger in 1998 after storms took the earlier versions. Today it draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, and it's easy to see why. The beach is bright white, the water is emerald green, and the whole place has that laid-back Gulf magic. Walk the boards, feel the breeze, Watch the Gulf roll with ease, Fish below and sky above, Simple place you can't help but love. For me, this pier wasn't just a stop it was the highlight of the whole trip.

Yes, you need to pay to walk the pier. $2.25 per person. Seven dollars if you plan on fishing. Tons…read moreof people fishing off the pier. Lots of strict fishing rules so the pier didn't smell fishy and it was very clean. A fun walk to the end and back. The view of the beach is great.

Adopted my parrot from here this month but have been volunteering for months here. Every bird has…read moretheir own personality, space and time spent with them on the daily. Reed is wonderful to be around and he has taught me so much. The adoption process was so wonderful, everything I've wanted. All my needs were met. Reed makes sure all these birds go to great homes. As for the parrots, they are provided with daily enrichment, a great diet, other birds to interact with and places to hide . Misters in the heat and heat lamps in the cold. Nothing better than Uncle Sandy's!!!!!!!!!

This place is a real hit if you love birds. It's a small, privately owned, bird sanctuary and I'm…read morereally glad we found it. The people that run it and care for the birds are first class fun. They give you a little cut of food of peanuts, cooked pasta and bread to feed the birds. You're given a very brief class on how not to get bitten when feeding them. These types of birds can inflict a nasty bite. It only costs ten dollars a person to walk through and it has to be cash. I donated another twenty bucks as well. The bird enclosures are spacious and the birds appear well fed and healthy. I really enjoyed the Emus, budgies and the funny chicken. There are even peacocks running around. One let me feed it peanuts and was very friendly. This place does a great service for surrendered birds nobody wants or knows how to take care of. Visiting funds continued care for these animals and I fully support the mission. It really is a fun experience.

Friendly workers and easy to book! Small space to park so if you can come in one vehicle. I come…read moreever year to Destin and I would definitely use them again and I recommend them to anybody! I also called around before I booked with them and they had the best prices for the pontoon boats.

We were referred to Sailing South by another very reputable local…read more Operator that we used in the past, but was booked for this week. Amanda and others at Sailing South were very very professional and Welcomed our family's reservation - they even offered a great Combo package of a brand new Pontoon/WaveRunner that made the trip awesome!! When our group arrived - they had everything ready and got us checked-in Quickly and got us out on the water in minutes. The deck hands were very thorough on all the safety and operational instructions. We had a great afternoon on Crab Island - and returned to the same helpful Staff at SS. They were great, by far the Best Pontoon rental experience We have ever had after coming to Destin for 16 years now. We now have found Our place to always get The Best service & deal in destin - I highly recommend these folks !!! Five Stars !!! Thanks for making our trip today awesome ! Terry Moffett and Family Dallas, Texas

My parents picked me up and I wanted to go to Pensacola Beach. I jumped in the car to drive. I…read morepunched in dog beach as my parents brought their spunky jack russell terrier along. The beach was heavenly. Salty, fresh air, nice sand, some sea shells. Just being at the beach makes me happy. What a nice diversion from being up at 315 am to catch a 520 am flight. Definitely recommend.

I recently took my dog on a road trip and decided he needed a visit to the beach. The beach offers…read moreadequate parking and a portable toilet, although I didn't notice a water source available. My only complaint isn't about the beach itself but rather about some of the beachgoers. I don't understand why people without pets would visit a dog-friendly beach, but that's a minor issue. The dog-friendly section of the beach is clearly marked with two signs, one on each side. I urge everyone to be respectful and clean up after their dogs--bags are conveniently provided at the entrance. It's truly a joy to have the chance to bring my dog to the beach with me, and I'm grateful for such a pet-friendly space.