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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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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Monday Night Spaghetti Sessions

Start your week the Italian way with Spaghetti Sessions—a FREE relaxed Monday night musical event at V. Paul’s. Enjoy authentic Italian bites, including our spaghetti and meatball from the Monday night menu and attend the perfect excuse to slow down, sip, and savor authentic flavors in downtown Pensacola. You have to come hear the band for yourself as they play every Monday night! 

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Oct 13 - Dec 29, 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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Grand Scotch Tasting Experience

Join V. Paul’s and Republic National Distributing Company—the premier force in fine spirits—for an unforgettable evening of education and indulgence at our exclusive Grand Scotch Tasting. Dive into the timeless history and masterful evolution of Scotch whisky as you explore two iconic expressions of its artistry. Guests will enjoy guided tastings of five exquisite pours from legendary houses Dalmore and Macallan, complemented by heavy hors d’oeuvres included at no extra charge. A sophisticated evening for enthusiasts and newcomers alike—where heritage, flavor, and craftsmanship converge in true V. Paul’s fashion.

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Oct 28 - Oct 28, 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