While You Are Here

Like everyone, we’re paying attention to the latest guidelines regarding COVID-19. We are committed to keeping our visitors and team members safe and informed. We’ll keep this page updated with the latest news on what’s open, what’s not, and the best information on how to enjoy the Pensacola Bay Area safely.

About Our Beaches

Beaches in Pensacola are open regular hours including the sound side, Gulf side and Pensacola Beach. Perdido Key beaches will open 30 minutes before sunrise and close 30 minutes after sunset, daily. 

Pavilions, the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier and the area around and under the fishing pier will remain closed. Beach bathroom facilities will be closed but portalets and hand-washing stations will be available. Dog parks will be reopened and permitted in designated areas.

Beachgoers are asked to limit groups to 10 people or fewer and to adhere to social distancing measures by keeping a 6-foot distance between others who are not in their immediate household.

The $1 toll on the Bob Sikes Bridge to Pensacola Beach is all-electronic. Cash and charge are no longer accepted. If you do not have SunPass® or a compatible system, you will be billed using toll-by-plate. Toll-by-plate customers will be mailed an invoice for the toll plus a monthly $2.50 fee. Cash can be used at SunPass kiosks to replenish and pay toll-by-plate invoices.

Recreation Areas

Gulf Islands National Seashore 

• The Fort Pickens Area
  • Regular operating hours
  • Restrooms will be limited to Langdon Beach and the restrooms outside of the Discovery Center
  • Lifeguards will be on duty at Langdon Beach
• The Perdido Key Area
  • Regular operating hours resume
  • Lifeguards will be on duty at Johnson Beach

Florida State Parks

•  Florida State Parks have re-opened access to trails, and some day-use areas, including some beach access with limited facilities. Visitors will be asked to practice proper social distancing and to limit group size to 10 or less and to stay six feet apart.
• The reopened state parks have limited facilities. Reopened beach areas allow visitors access to active recreation only. This includes walking, jogging, swimming and fishing. No sunbathing, chairs, canopies or coolers are allowed in beach areas at this time.
• Reopened parks will resume normal operating hours of 8 a.m. to sunset, with the exception of beach areas. Access to beach areas will have reduced daily hours that may vary locally along with reductions in visitor capacity to ensure social distancing. Visitors should check the Department’s website at www.floridastateparks.org for the latest information.
• Compliance with social distancing requirements and approved activities will be enforced and failure to comply with proper social distancing or approved activities may result in law enforcement action or park closure.
• For a complete list of open parks and available amenities, please visit www.floridastateparks.org.

Restaurants

Many restaurants are open. They can offer outdoor seating with six-foot space between tables and indoor seating at 50% capacity. Many also offer carry-out or delivery. 

Lodging

Most area hotels are open with safety procedures in place, and short-term vacation rentals are now allowed as well. Visit our Stay pages to explore your options.