Advice for Pensacola Beach Newbies

Question

Hi! We are a family travelling to Pensacola Beach with our 1-year-old daughter in mid-March. This is our first time travelling to this part of the country. We are renting an airbnb in the area that shows up as “Santa Rosa Villas” on Google maps. Since we’re travelling with a toddler (already a major undertaking) and this is a new place, I’m anxious and want to prepare well. Would appreciate your kind help with any of the following questions:

— Are there any stroller-friendly places to walk? Any playgrounds?

— How concerned should we be about mosquitoes at that time of year?

— How safe is the Pensacola Beach area? How safe is downtown Pensacola for a walk with a stroller?

— What are the best urgent care clinics (just in case) and grocery stores in the area?

— Since this is our first time to this part of the country, we are also open to exploring other places within about a 1.5hr drive radius from Pensacola, if there are things we simply should not miss. Would welcome any recommendations.

Thank you all in advance for your help!

Answer

Welcome to Pensacola Beach! It sounds like you’re going to have a wonderful trip with your family. I’ll address your questions one by one to help you prepare for your visit with your toddler.

1. Stroller-Friendly Places to Walk & Playgrounds

Pensacola Beach is a great place for families with toddlers, and there are several stroller-friendly locations and playgrounds you can enjoy:

Pensacola Beach Boardwalk: This area is very stroller-friendly. You can stroll along the scenic boardwalk that stretches along the beach and enjoy the view. It’s a paved path, making it easy for strollers.
Gulf Islands National Seashore: Offers wide open spaces for walks, although some areas might have sandier paths that are not as stroller-friendly. Still, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the outdoors with a toddler.
Playground at Pensacola Beach: There’s a nice playground located at the Pensacola Beach Community Center (also known as the Pensacola Beach Park), which is perfect for toddlers to explore.
Pensacola Beach Pier: If you enjoy walking, the Pensacola Beach Pier is also a great option. It’s stroller-friendly, though you’ll need to pay for access to the pier itself.

2. Mosquitoes in March

While Pensacola Beach can have mosquitoes, especially after rain or in the warmer months, March typically isn't peak mosquito season. However, there may still be some around, particularly in the early morning or evening when the weather is warmer. To be on the safe side, bring along some insect repellent for both yourself and your toddler, and consider using a mosquito net for the stroller if you plan to be out at dusk.

3. Safety in Pensacola Beach & Downtown Pensacola

Both Pensacola Beach and downtown Pensacola are considered very safe, with low crime rates, making them great for walking with a stroller. Pensacola Beach has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, and you’ll find many families enjoying the area. Downtown Pensacola is also a popular area with well-maintained sidewalks, and it’s perfectly fine for a walk with your stroller during the day. As with any city, it’s a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re out later in the evening.

4. Urgent Care & Grocery Stores

Here are a few suggestions for urgent care centers and grocery stores you might need:

Urgent Care:
- Immediate Care of Pensacola: Located in Pensacola, they provide quick care for minor injuries and illnesses.
- Ascension Sacred Heart Urgent Care: Another option in Pensacola for any emergency medical needs.
Grocery Stores:
- Winn-Dixie: There’s a large Winn-Dixie on Pensacola Beach where you can get all your grocery needs. Another option is the one located in downtown Pensacola.
- Publix: Another great supermarket option. There’s one located in the nearby Gulf Breeze area, a short drive from the beach.
- Navarre Beach Farmer’s Market: If you want to explore local produce, you can check out the Farmer’s Market in Navarre, which is open on Saturdays.

5. Day Trip Recommendations within 1.5 Hours from Pensacola

If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, here are some must-visit destinations within a short drive from Pensacola Beach:

Gulf Shores, Alabama (1.5 hours): A beautiful beach destination with family-friendly activities. It has a lovely beach, a zoo, and several parks for families to enjoy.
Fort Pickens at Gulf Islands National Seashore (30 minutes): Great for history buffs and nature lovers. The fort is well-preserved, and the beaches around it are less crowded, making it perfect for families with small children.
Navarre Beach (40 minutes): Known for its beautiful, quiet beaches, Navarre is a wonderful spot to spend the day. It’s less crowded than Pensacola Beach, offering a peaceful escape.
Historic Downtown Pensacola (20 minutes): If you enjoy history, you can explore downtown Pensacola, with its many historical buildings, museums, and quaint shops.
Perdido Key (45 minutes): This area has some of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in Florida, making it a perfect day trip for families. It’s also home to a great wildlife refuge with plenty of outdoor activities.

In addition to the above, Pensacola Beach itself is full of wonderful activities and sights, so you’ll have no shortage of things to do. You can take it easy, knowing that there’s plenty of family-friendly fun awaiting you! Have a great trip, and enjoy your time in Pensacola Beach!

Advice for Pensacola Beach Newbies

More Pensacola Beach Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions