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Discover The Best Ways to Experience a Pensacola Sunset

What better place than Pensacola to watch a sunset? One of the most breathtaking sights in this city is its stunning sunsets. As the sun slowly descends below the horizon, it paints the sky with a magnificent array of colors leaving onlookers mesmerized.

There are so many ways to explore the outdoors and experience a sunset in the Pensacola Bay Area.

Pensacola Beach

If you're looking for just a good old-fashioned sunset on the Gulf of Mexico, just hop on over to Pensacola Beach. We have so many great beach areas in Pensacola.

My personal favorites would be Park West, Fort Pickens, or any of the walkovers along the coastline. The sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters of our beaches make for an ideal spot to sit and watch the sunset. Any beach out on Pensacola Beach is a great choice, really. Browse our beach access finder and see the variety of locations you can choose from on our own slice of paradise.

Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier

You can’t go wrong with catching a sunset on the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier. This 1,471 feet long pier is conveniently located at the heart of Pensacola Beach and is within walking distance to several shops and dining establishments. My favorite thing to do is grab a drink, head out an hour or 30 minutes before the sun sets, and grab a spot on one of the benches facing westward.

Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is open until dusk. The pier offers views of Casino Beach, the famous beach ball, and endless emerald Gulf of Mexico views. The pier is also great if you like to fish at sunset. Be sure to bring a jacket if you think it may be chilly – it can get breezy on the Gulf depending on the weather.

Credit | credit: @cityofpensacola

Pensacola Beach Webcams

Wondering what the sky looks like? Check out the beach webcams before you head out.

Webcams

Downtown Pensacola

Plaza de Luna

The Plaza de Luna area in downtown Pensacola is a great spot to catch a good sunset. Jaco’s Bayfront Bar & Grille is right on the water here in downtown Pensacola. This waterfront restaurant situated along Pensacola Bay offers a relaxing environment to indulge and unwind. The outdoor seating is my personal favorite to take in the stunning panoramic views as you grab a bite to eat.

Located at the south end of Palafox Street, this restaurant is home to a variety of fresh seafood dishes. There is truly something for everyone, whether it’s their famous grilled oysters, shrimp scampi, or even a non-seafood option; like their flatbreads, steaks, or salads. They also offer a variety of cocktails, beer, and wines if you're into that. Their berry sangria is my go-to every time.

This spot is a must do for those looking for an easy dining experience where they can see the sun go down.

Maritime Park

Overlooking Pensacola Bay, Maritime Park sits at the south end of Downtown Pensacola. This is a great spot for anyone who is looking to get outside. It also is the Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium home, our local minor league baseball team. This is a popular thing to do here, but even if you're not a baseball fan, you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Whether you're out there for a Blue Wahoos Baseball game or just enjoying the fresh air, this is a space to get outdoors and see the sunset over the bay.

Credit | credit: @tonalokaphotography

Pensacola Bay Bridge

The Pensacola Bay Bridge connects Gulf Breeze and Pensacola. Spanning just over 3 miles, the bridge offers a unique vantage point at sunset. There are dedicated walking/biking paths headed both east and west, giving you an opportunity to get in some steps while enjoying the scenery of Pensacola Bay.

Walking or biking the bridge is a good way to stay active and can be enjoyed alone or with friends and family. If you get the opportunity, I highly recommend taking a walk across the Pensacola Bay Bridge for sunset. Don't forget to bring your water and stay hydrated!

Credit | credit: @steveblairdesigns

Perdido Key

Small Islands

Watching a sunset from the small islands in Perdido Key is a breathtaking experience. A great way to get to them would be by kayak or boat. This quiet and tranquil scene is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and worry free.

Now where are the islands you may ask? There are several of them there in Perdido Pass. There is Gilchrist Island, Bird Island, Walker Island, and Robinson Island. They are all accessible by watercraft.

The islands are also a common spot to see wildlife. You may see a variety of birds or even dolphins on your way over. Feel the breeze on your skin as the sun sinks below the horizon. Getting in touch with nature is never a bad thing – especially when you’re on an island at sunset!

Credit | credit: @delunavision

Flora-Bama

Hanging out at the Flora-Bama in Perdido Key is a fabulous way to spend a sunset. The Flora-Bama is unique, situated on the state line between Florida and Alabama. They offer many delicious dishes, beer, cocktails, and my favorite- the buschwacker. What says Pensacola more than sipping on a cold bushwacker at sunset?

The Flora-Bama hosts a fun atmosphere right on the beach, allowing you to take in some gorgeous views. Whether you want to listen to live music, eat delicious food, or drink, you won't regret it.

Big Lagoon State Park

Covering over 700 acres, Big Lagoon State Park encompasses the northern side of Big Lagoon, separating the mainland from Perdido Key and the Gulf. There are a lot of ways to experience a sunset here. You can go hiking, biking, swimming, boating, or kayaking.

Big Lagoon State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Here, you’ll find a lot of wildlife in a tranquil setting. Watching the sunset on its sandy beaches is something you’ll never forget. This Florida State Park is a must-do in the Perdido area.

By Boat

Sunset Cruises are a unique experience here in Pensacola. There are several to choose from, and all will show you the beauty of the Gulf Coast as the sun sinks over the horizon. You can't go wrong with spending your evening on a boat cruising around Pensacola Bay at dusk.

There will be stunning views to enjoy during the cruise, which provides a great Instagram story if you ask me! If you're lucky, you might even see some wildlife on your cruise, so keep your eyes peeled.

A sunset cruise is a relaxing way to end (or start) your evening here, not to mention you will have memories to last a lifetime.

Cruise your way into the sunset

The Pensacola Bay City Ferry downtown is another hidden gem that is right in our own backyard. You may not think of it at first but it is a fabulous way to get a great view. The ferry has two vessels and offers a ton of great things. Hop on the ferry and take a sunset cruise around Pensacola Bay. They even have imported and domestic beer, wine, soft drinks, and water available for purchase. What could be better than a glass of wine at sunset? Click here to see the schedule for upcoming sunset ferry cruises.

Pensacola's sunsets are not just a feast for the eyes, but also for the soul. There is something magical about watching the sun slowly disappear, taking with it the worries and stresses of the day, and leaving behind a sense of peace and tranquility. It's free therapy, really.

Whether you are a local or a visitor to the area, taking the time to witness this daily occurrence is an experience you will not regret. So, grab your seat, find a spot, and prepare to be amazed as you watch the Pensacola sky come alive with the colors of the setting sun.

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Hannah Pinson

Author

Hannah Pinson

Website Associate, Visit Pensacola

Hannah is the Website Associate at Visit Pensacola. She has lived in Pensacola for about six years and grew up in the Florida panhandle. She loves going to the beach to catch a good sunset in her spare time. Hannah is passionate about all things digital and loves content creation, photos, and video. She also enjoys exploring all the things downtown has to offer. Whether it be grabbing a bite to eat or enjoying local events, Hannah is definitely a Pensa-local.
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