Itinerary: Outdoor Adventuring Galore in Pensacola

There is plenty to experience for the outdoor enthusiast in Pensacola. Whether you want to take it slow and hit the trails or ride the waves on a surfboard, Pensacola is the perfect spot to enjoy all the outdoor activities.

Read below to generate some ideas for your outdoor adventure itinerary in Pensacola.

National Parks

Is hitting the parks more your vibe? You’re in the right place. Pensacola is home to several state parks and the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Venturing out to these parks is perfect for the explorer wanting to get out, get some fresh air, and experience the beauty of the outdoors.

The Gulf Islands National Seashore is a must-visit here in Pensacola! It is the longest stretch of federally protected seashore in the United States. The best thing about it? Miles and miles of pristine sugar-white sands along the shoreline. This is perfect for many outdoor activities in the water, or if you’re looking for some history, check out Fort Pickens and Fort McRee (accessible by boat only)– both are part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Johnson Beach in Perdido Key is also a part of the seashore and is a beautiful stretch of shoreline.

Big Lagoon State Park is nature’s paradise if we do say so. With beautiful views and tons of wildlife, you never know what you might see! Big Lagoon is a great spot to go kayaking or to hit the boardwalks and get some steps in.

Fishing

Fishing in Pensacola is a popular activity. There are several great spots to cast a line! Whether you’re heading out on your own or on a fishing charter, there are several ways to go fishing. Some of our top spots are charter fishing the Gulf, Johnson Beach, Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier, Fort Pickens Fishing Pier, and inshore fishing along protected waterways and bayous – there a ton here!

Diving

Diving in Pensacola is an experience like no other. Now depending on what skill level you are in diving, there are a variety of different options to choose from. We have natural wrecks, natural bottoms, and some artificial reefs as well. Fun fact – Pensacola is home to the largest artificial wreck in the world, the USS Oriskany! Now this is for your more experienced diver of course, but not to fear! There are certainly several other really cool dive spots to take advantage of while you’re here. What are you waiting for? Start planning your diving excursion now, with the help of some local shops awaiting you.

Sailing

What better place to set sail than Pensacola? We have some of the most beautiful bays and horizons to explore. Sunset cruises, day cruises, or even catamaran lessons – all available. Did we mention that Pensacola is the official home of New York Yacht Club’s American Magic Sailboat? Pensacola was also named Florida’s Best Kept Sailing Secret by SAIL Magazine in February 2018. There are several sailing outfitters in town to take you on your journey to enjoy the salt life.

Paddling

Grab the oars! Paddling in Pensacola is a common activity to do outdoors, as there are so many great spots to paddle. The Gulf, Pensacola Bay, Big Lagoon State Park, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Perdido Key State Park – one thing in common? All great places to get your paddle on. The good news? There are tons of places locally to get your paddling equipment, whether you want to hit the water by kayak or paddleboard, there are many outfitters to check out to get your paddle adventure started.

Biking

Two-wheeling in Pensacola is another great activity to take part in! Lucky for you, there are great areas in Pensacola where biking is a breeze. Whether you want to hit a biking path in Downtown Pensacola, Perdido Key, Pensacola Beach, or North Pensacola, there are plenty to choose from. Not to mention, Pensacola is home to many parks that are great to bike around as well!

Explore Local Bike Routes

From the beaches to the woodlands, the Pensacola Bay Area offers an abundance of scenic bike routes. Explore them here.

Boating

The Pensacola Bay Area is home to some great boating opportunities. Dolphin cruises, fishing charters, you name it - you can do it here in Pensacola! You can even rent a boat while you're here.

Snorkeling

Grab your snorkel and hit the water, it's an activity that the whole family can get into. Pensacola is home to beautiful beaches and pristine shorelines, perfect for a day in the water with your snorkel. There are several spots to rent some snorkel gear from if you're in need of it, or feel free to bring your own. There are a few different reefs to explore as well out in Perdido Key and on Pensacola Beach. Don't want to venture out on your own? There are businesses offering guided snorkel tours to show you all the best spots!

Snorkeling Reef Locations

Surfing

Surf's up in Pensacola! Grab your surfboard and hit the water (if it's wavy, of course). Be sure to read about the flag conditions in the Gulf before you head out for the day, and remember that safety is always number one - even in the waves. Pensacola also offers different surf camps and lessons if you're a beginner looking to gain some experience, so be sure to check those out before you go.

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