Hotels in Pensacola Beach

Where Emerald Waves Embrace Golden Shores: Unveil the Magic of Pensacola Beach

Escape to Pensacola Beach, Florida, where powdery white sands meet the shimmering emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This idyllic coastal paradise offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, with attractions like the historic Fort Pickens and the vibrant nightlife of Casino Beach. Stroll along the picturesque boardwalk, indulge in fresh seafood, or embark on a dolphin-watching cruise. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or family fun, Pensacola Beach is a treasure trove of natural beauty and southern charm, making it a must-visit destination for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Pensacola Beach, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Pensacola Beach

Some of the best places to stay in Pensacola Beach are Downtown Pensacola, Orange Beach East and Southeast Pensacola. Pensacola Beach boasts a vibrant atmosphere with stunning beaches and rich history. Downtown Pensacola offers cultural attractions and dining, making it great for first-time visitors. Orange Beach East is perfect for relaxation and water activities, featuring beachfront condos and beach houses. Southeast Pensacola provides quieter accommodations and easy access to nature. Generally, you'll find a range of options, from beach hotels and suites to more budget-friendly stays, ensuring a comfortable experience for every traveler. Here are some of the best hotels in Pensacola Beach that our travelers love:

1. Downtown PensacolaOpens in a new window: Downtown Pensacola is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a blend of family fun, cultural experiences, and entertainment. With attractions like the Pensacola Bay Center and Saenger Theatre, visitors can enjoy a variety of events and performances. Historic Pensacola Village adds a touch of local history to the mix. For accommodations, consider Oyster Bay Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel featuring direct beach access, business amenities, and romantic packages. Another option is The Pensacola Beach ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel suitable for families and business travelers, offering direct beach access and a range of children’s amenities. Lastly, Hilton Pensacola BeachOpens in a new window is also a 4.0-star hotel that caters to adventure seekers with activities like parasailing and kayaking available nearby.
2. Orange Beach EastOpens in a new window: Orange Beach East is perfect for those looking to enjoy stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. The Wharf offers family-friendly activities, while Gulf State Park provides ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts. For hotels, Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort, offers beach access and adventure sports like kayaking and fishing. Another option is Colonnades by VacasaOpens in a new window, a family-focused hotel with amenities like an arcade and playground. If you're after a business-friendly environment, Island House Hotel Orange Beach - a DoubleTree by HiltonOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that also provides direct beach access and essential business services.
3. Southeast PensacolaOpens in a new window: Southeast Pensacola is a vibrant area that combines business opportunities with cultural attractions. This locale includes the Pensacola Bay Center and Saenger Theatre for entertainment, making it suitable for both work and play. For lodging, Courtyard Pensacola DowntownOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel ideal for business travelers, featuring comprehensive business amenities. Alternatively, Residence Inn by Marriott Pensacola DowntownOpens in a new window allows pets and provides services for business travelers, making it a great choice for those traveling with furry companions. Lastly, A New Hope RetreatOpens in a new window offers a cozy bed-and-breakfast experience, complete with business amenities and pet-friendly policies.

Things to do in Pensacola Beach for first time

Pensacola Beach offers a stunning retreat with its soft sand beaches and vibrant coastal scenery, perfect for a three-day getaway. Travelers can enjoy activities like boating, biking, and walking along the shore, as well as savoring breathtaking sunsets and lively music, making it a memorable destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Pensacola Beach:

• Day 1: Begin your Pensacola Beach adventure at Navarre Beach, where you can relax on the soft, white sands and enjoy the stunning Gulf of Mexico views. After soaking up the sun, venture to Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve to explore its scenic trails and diverse wildlife. Here, you can take a peaceful walk amid the towering live oaks and maybe even spot some local birds. Conclude your day with a leisurely evening at Santa Rosa Sound, where the calm waters offer perfect opportunities for kayaking or just unwinding by the shore as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Start your day at Perdido Key Beach, known for its pristine beauty and great swimming conditions. After some beach time, head to Johnson Beach, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, where you can enjoy hiking along the nature trails or simply relaxing on the secluded sands. End your day with a visit to Fort Barrancas, a historic military fort that offers fascinating insights into the area's history, along with breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Historic Pensacola Village, where you can immerse yourself in the city's rich history and explore beautifully preserved buildings. Next, take a short trip to Gulf Breeze Parkway Beach, where the serene atmosphere allows for a peaceful afternoon by the water. Wrap up your visit at the National Museum of Naval Aviation, an incredible attraction featuring a vast collection of aircraft and exhibits that will captivate aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

5 tips to find a great Pensacola Beach hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Pensacola Beach is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure the best deals. For a great value for money experience, plan to stay at least 2-3 days, which will give you enough time to explore the beautiful beach and the stunning sea. Pensacola Beach is perfect for those looking for an enjoyable getaway without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking great last-minute deals to Pensacola Beach, you're in luck! Hotels.com offers a variety of options that could help you save on your stay. To explore these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of catching flash sales and exclusive promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you stay informed about the best deals available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. So, if you have some flexibility with your travel dates, you might find that you could save on hotel expenses in Pensacola Beach.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Pensacola Beach usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car, bus, ferry, or trolley to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Pensacola Beach. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Pensacola Beach

Here are some top-rated dishes in Pensacola Beach, Florida, United States of America:

• Seafood: Pensacola Beach is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly dishes like grilled snapper, shrimp and grits, and the famous Gulf oysters. Locally caught and prepared with love, these dishes often highlight the region's coastal flavors and are best enjoyed at beachfront shacks or upscale restaurants with stunning views of the sunset.
• Po' Boys: A classic Louisiana sandwich that has found a home in Pensacola, the po' boy is traditionally filled with fried shrimp or oysters and dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy remoulade sauce. It's a handheld delight that reflects the area's Cajun and Creole influences, perfect for a casual lunch by the beach.
• Grits: A Southern staple, grits are often served as a creamy side dish or topped with shrimp and spices, showcasing the region's rich agricultural heritage. In Pensacola, you’ll find grits prepared with local cheeses or herbs, adding a personal touch to this beloved comfort food.

Best time to go to Pensacola Beach

Pensacola Beach experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 52.7°F (11.5°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.8°F (28.2°C). August is usually the wettest month. May to July are the peak travel months in Pensacola Beach, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.