Top 7 Things to Do on Pensacola Beach
All the things you can do on Pensacola Beach.
Located on the stunning Gulf Coast of Florida, Pensacola Beach is a renowned vacation destination that captivates visitors with its pristine secluded beaches, clear emerald waters, and an array of exciting activities. From dolphin cruises and Blue Angel practice shows to pontoon boating and snorkeling adventures, Pensacola Beach offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Let’s delve into the wonders that make Pensacola Beach a treasured gem on the Gulf Coast.
1. Dolphin Tours: Unveiling the Marine World
One of the most beloved experiences in Pensacola Beach is embarking on a thrilling dolphin tour. The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico are home to an abundance of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, and talented tour operators offer excursions to encounter these playful marine mammals in their natural habitat. There are OH so many dolphin tour options with Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours & Pontoon Boat Rentals.
Visitors can hop aboard comfortable boats, led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the dolphins’ behavior and biology. Witnessing these intelligent creatures leaping and frolicking in the waves is a truly heartwarming experience that leaves lasting memories for both adults and children alike. This is one Pensacola Beach water attraction you don’t want to miss and just one of many things to do on the beach.
2. Blue Angel Practice/Training Location: Awe-Inspiring Air Shows
Pensacola Beach boasts another exceptional attraction – it serves as the primary practice and training location for the U.S. Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron, the Blue Angels. These skilled aviators showcase their breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers during scheduled practice sessions, drawing crowds from far and wide. During airshow season,, the Blue Angels practice on most Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s at 10:30am. You can watch them practice their amazing aerobatic stunts while they zoom pass the four point crossover just off of National Naval Aviation Museum and Base near the Pensacola Lighthouse and over the Frisky Mermaid. This is by far one of the best things to do on Pensacola Beach! A great spot to watch the Blues practice, you can go on Frisky Mermaid’s Blue Angels Blues Cruise.
Witness jaw-dropping aerial displays as the Blue Angels soar through the skies, leaving behind trails of blue and white. Their precision and skill are a testament to the dedication and training of these extraordinary pilots, and catching one of their practice shows is an unforgettable experience. Get the 2024 Blue Angels Practice Schedule here.
3. Pontoon Boating: A Leisurely Exploration of the Gulf Waters & The Santa Rosa Sound
For those seeking a leisurely maritime adventure, pontoon boating offers the perfect opportunity to explore the beauty of Pensacola Beach and its surrounding waters. Renting a pontoon boat allows families and friends to enjoy a relaxing day on the water, soaking in the gentle sea breeze and panoramic views of the coastline. This is also a great way to view the Blue Angels, on your own schedule. Pontoon boat rentals are available and you will be provided directions, visual maps and a premium boat with an onboard GPS. You and your guests can beach and chill while you wait for those jet engines roar.
Whether it’s exploring the pristine shores of Santa Rosa Island or anchoring at a secluded spot to swim and sunbathe, pontoon boating guarantees an idyllic day of bonding with loved ones amid the stunning coastal scenery. You can also beach and check out all the things to do at Fort Pickens here: National Park Service Website
Several waterfront restaurants also have live music and an area you can dock and/or beach the pontoon and chill.
4. Snorkeling: Discovering Marine Wonders Beneath the Surface
The turquoise waters of the Gulf Coast provide excellent visibility, making Pensacola Beach a snorkeler’s paradise. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore the underwater wonders teeming with marine life, such as colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.
The Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier, in particular, is a popular spot for snorkelers to observe an assortment of marine species up close. With the gentle waves and warm waters, even beginners can comfortably enjoy snorkeling and immerse themselves in the captivating marine world.
You could also take a scenic bay dolphin tour with a Snorkel Stop the artificial reef or a Secluded beach stop where you can snorkel on the Gulf side.
5. White Sandy Beaches: A Relaxing Coastal Paradise
Pensacola Beach’s most celebrated feature is undoubtedly its pristine white sandy beaches. Pensacola Beach has some of the most secluded, private beaches in Florida. Stretching for miles along the Gulf Coast, the beaches provide a tranquil escape where visitors can unwind, build sandcastles, or simply bask in the sun’s warm embrace.
The beach’s powdery sands are perfect for leisurely strolls and evening bonfires, creating cherished memories of lazy afternoons and breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf waters. Locals often refer to our white sand as the only white Christmas you need.
6. Historic Fort Pickens: A Journey into the Past
Fort Pickens is a historic military fort located on Santa Rosa Island in the Gulf of Mexico, near Pensacola, Florida. Built in the 1830s and later used during the Civil War, it played a crucial role in protecting the coastline. Today, Fort Pickens is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and is open to visitors interested in exploring its well-preserved structures and learning about its rich history. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Fort Pickens is a must. This historic coastal fort, built in the early 19th century, played a significant role in the defense of the Gulf Coast during various conflicts, including the Civil War. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortification, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the fort’s history and its importance in shaping the nation’s military heritage.
7. Fishing: A Haven for Anglers
Pensacola Beach’s strategic location on the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay makes it a paradise for anglers. Whether casting lines from the pier or venturing out on chartered fishing trips, fishing enthusiasts have a plethora of options to reel in impressive catches. The diverse marine ecosystem promises an exciting array of fish, including redfish, snapper, grouper, and tarpon, offering a memorable fishing experience for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Florida recreational reef fish can be identified here.
Fishing in Pensacola Beach can be a great experience. Pensacola Beach, located on Santa Rosa Island in Florida, offers various fishing opportunities. You can fish from the shore, piers, or even charter a boat for offshore fishing.
Some popular fishing spots in Pensacola Beach include:
- Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier: A long pier extending into the Gulf of Mexico, providing a great platform for fishing.
- Bob Sikes Bridge: The bridge connects Pensacola Beach to Gulf Breeze and is known for good fishing opportunities, especially for anglers targeting species like redfish and trout.
- Shore Fishing: You can also fish directly from the shore along the beach. Look for areas with structure such as sandbars and jetties.
Before you go, make sure to check local fishing regulations, obtain the necessary permits, and be aware of any size and bag limits for the species you plan to catch. Also, consider the seasonal variations in fish migration patterns for a better fishing experience.
Enjoy multiple Pensacola Beach Attractions With Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience 
on Pensacola Beach, look no further than Frisky Mermaid Dolphin Tours & Boat Rentals. Our offerings go beyond the typical beach rental companies, providing an opportunity to truly discover the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling dolphin tour or a relaxing pontoon boat rental, we have something for everyone. Plus, our Blue Angels viewings are a must-see for those who want to witness the world-renowned aerial team in action. With Frisky Mermaid, you won’t just be sightseeing – you’ll be creating lifelong memories.