If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to explore Pensacola Beach and Fort Pickens, look no further than the Pensacola Ferry Service. This convenient service provides transportation to some of the area’s top attractions, making it easy to enjoy a day trip with friends or family, starting in downtown Pensacola and making stops on Pensacola Beach and at Ft. Pickens.
Getting There
The Pensacola Ferry Service offers several departure points, including downtown Pensacola, Fort Pickens, and Pensacola Beach. If you’re coming from downtown Pensacola, you can catch the ferry at the Commendencia Street Pier, which is located near the popular Palafox Street entertainment district. Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Fort Pickens, which offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the historic fort. And if you’re staying on Pensacola Beach, you can catch the ferry from Quietwater Beach, which is located near the Boardwalk.
Exploring Fort Pickens
One of the main attractions of the Pensacola Ferry Service is the opportunity to visit Fort Pickens, a historic military fort that played a critical role in the Civil War. The fort is located on the western tip of Santa Rosa Island and offers a fascinating glimpse into Pensacola’s past. Visitors can explore the fort’s tunnels, barracks, and gun batteries, as well as enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico from the top of the fort.
Fun Things to Do
In addition to visiting Fort Pickens, there are plenty of other fun things to do on a day trip to Pensacola Beach. If you’re looking for some excitement, you can rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Or, if you prefer to stay on land, you can take a bike ride along the scenic Gulf Islands National Seashore, which offers miles of pristine white-sand beaches and unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico. UFO’s mini-golf, arcade and ice cream parlor offers a nice diversion from the beach and is a local’s favorite as its unique UFO theme harkens back to a time in the late 80’s when the area was a hotbed of UFO activity. A free trolly service provides local island transportation and just about everything on Pensacola Beach is within walking distance from the boardwalk where the ferry docks.
Restaurants to Visit
After a day of exploring, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, Pensacola Beach offers a variety of delicious restaurants and cafes to choose from. For a casual lunch or dinner, head to Red Fish Blue Fish, a local favorite known for its fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere. They are known to have “The Best Backyard on the Beach”. Right next door is Red Fish’s sister restaurant, Water Pig BBQ, which features all your favorite BBQ cuts smoked low and slow daily in Water Pig’s 1,000 lb. capacity smoker. There is an amazing little private beach between the two restaurants where you can pull up a chair and dip your toes in the water while you chew on some fresh seafood or BBQ. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, try the Bonsai, the Island’s only upscale Japanese fusion restaurant that serves the freshest sushi and hand-made ramen dishes that blur the lines between food and art. Bonsai is tucked into an intimate setting hidden speak-easy style on the second floor of the Hilton Pensacola Beach. Bonsai offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and a menu featuring locally-sourced seafood, A5 wagyu, hand-made ramen and the best sake selection on the Gulf Coast.
Conclusion
Overall, the Pensacola Ferry Service offers a unique and convenient way to explore Pensacola Beach and Fort Pickens. With easy transportation, fascinating historic sites, and plenty of fun activities and restaurants to choose from, it’s the perfect day trip for anyone looking to experience the best of the Gulf Coast.
