The Pensacola beaches are often hailed as being among the whitest beaches in the world, and when you compare them to the azure green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, it creates a splendid contrast. Numerous vacationers are attracted to the Pensacola beaches every year, and they come to do more than just admire the setting. A variety of watersports activities can be enjoyed at many of the area beaches, and this part of the world averages more than 300 sunny days a year, meaning that you can do some serious sunbathing.

When it comes to rating the best beaches near Pensacola Florida, it essentially comes down to what you have in mind. In the suburb of sorts that is Pensacola Beach , you will find some excellent public beaches that have restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. Among them is Casino Beach . Within walking distance of the inviting Pensacola Beach beaches are bars, restaurants , and shops, and you won't have trouble locating a good beach hotel or resort. This is where many vacationers choose to base themselves, though that doesn't mean that you should overlook Navarre and other area destinations.

Pensacola Beach is situated on Santa Rosa Island . On one side of this island is the Santa Rosa Sound, and on the other is the Gulf of Mexico. The growth of this compact beach town was limited by the fact that Santa Rosa Island is also home to part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore . This preserve, which has parts in Mississippi and Florida, is known for its wonderfully pristine beaches, not to mention its numerous recreational opportunities.

Pensacola Map

There are actually some 150 miles of white-sand beaches in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, and some of these beaches are found on the laid-back island of Perdido Key . Found west of Santa Rosa Island and southwest of Downtown Pensacola , this skinny barrier island is a beach lover's delight, and it doesn't hurt that it features a challenging golf course and other enticing attractions . The best Perdido Key beaches are arguably those that are found on the eastern side, which is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. One such beach is Rosamond Johnson Beach. Open from 8 a.m. to sunset, this beach features seasonal lifeguards, picnic shelters, showers, and restrooms.

While there are no coral reefs found off the Pensacola beaches, the snorkeling can still be rewarding, especially off the more pristine beaches. Other popular beach activities that residents and visitors like to engage in are surfing, kayaking, and sailing. Surf fishing , which entails casting your lines right from the beach, is also something that you can enjoy at some of the Pensacola beaches, such as those that are found within the boundaries of the Perdido Key State Recreation Area. Fishing off a pier is also possible at some of the beaches in the area. Pensacola Beach's fishing pier is one such example.

There are so many miles of white-sand beaches to choose from in the Pensacola area that you should have no trouble finding a secluded waterfront spot if that's what you desire. Along the more developed beaches, such as those in Pensacola Beach, there are hotels , resorts , and vacation rentals , so finding beachfront accommodations to suit your fancy should also be easy.

Regardless of where you decide to stay in Pensacola, you might not limit yourself to the beaches in the immediate area when looking to enjoy some fun in the sun. The Emerald Coast region, which gets its name from the color of the Gulf waters, is home to more beaches than you will likely know what to do with, and most of them are spectacular. Destin and Panama City are just two other places where you can check out some beautiful Emerald Coast beaches .