getting around Pensacola

Question

Hallo, I will spend few days in Pensacola next August. I have planned 4 night in Pensacola city and I am wondering if there is another place worth to spend other 3-4 nights around the area. I have a car but I would like to change place to see more things . Thank you for your suggestions!

Answer

Pensacola is a great base for exploring both the city and the surrounding areas. Since you have a car, you have the flexibility to split your stay and see more of the Florida Panhandle and nearby Gulf Coast towns. Here are some suggestions for where to spend the additional 3-4 nights outside Pensacola:

Within Pensacola: If you haven’t already, spend time in downtown Pensacola for historic sites, art galleries, and local restaurants. Don’t miss:

Historic Pensacola Village and museums
Pensacola Beach and the Gulf Islands National Seashore
Palafox Street for dining, shopping, and nightlife

Nearby places worth considering:

Pensacola Beach or Perdido Key: Only 15-30 minutes from downtown Pensacola, these areas offer beautiful white sand beaches, water sports, and a more relaxed, resort-like vibe.
Destin: About 1.5 hours east, Destin is famous for its emerald waters and popular beaches. Great for shopping, dining, and boating excursions.
Fort Walton Beach / Okaloosa Island: Around 1.5–2 hours from Pensacola. A quieter alternative to Destin with beach access, fishing piers, and family-friendly attractions.
Navarre Beach: About 45 minutes from Pensacola, this area is less crowded and has a more local feel. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying natural beaches.
Gulf Breeze / Navarre State Park: Perfect if you enjoy nature, hiking, and scenic views of the Gulf. Offers campgrounds or cabin rentals if you want a more outdoorsy experience.

Tips for Getting Around:

Having a car gives you the freedom to explore smaller towns along the Panhandle coast that are not easily reached by public transport.
Plan day trips to nearby attractions like the National Naval Aviation Museum, Gulf Islands National Seashore, or ferry trips to barrier islands.
Check local events in each area, as summer weekends can have festivals or markets worth attending.

By splitting your stay between Pensacola city and a nearby beach town such as Pensacola Beach, Navarre, or even Destin, you can enjoy both the cultural and scenic aspects of the region without feeling rushed. This also allows for a nice mix of city exploration and relaxing beach time.

getting around Pensacola

More Pensacola Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions