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SURFING

SURFING

Surf’s Up in Pensacola Beach

If you try to think of world-class surf destinations, Pensacola Beach almost certainly wouldn’t be near the top of your list. We’ll be the first to admit that if you’re specifically planning a surf trip, Pensacola Beach may not be the right pick. However, if you’re looking to ride emerald waves with an almost tropical backdrop on the same trip that you can explore some of America’s historic landmarks and preserved nature trails, all while enjoying the stellar amenities of a modern resort town, Pensacola Beach is exactly what you’re looking for. When the surf’s good here and you’re tucked into a crystal clear barrel, everything else seems to disappear and it can feel like a paradise rivaling anywhere else in the world.

Riding your board over crystal clear water where you can see the sand beneath your feet isn’t all that common in the South, but in Pensacola Beach, it’s the standard. And it’s not just the view under your feet that’s incredible: most spots you drop in at, you’ll be looking at the pristine Gulf Islands National Seashore, over 17 miles of preserved nature along the coast.

What are the Waves Like?

Surfing on Pensacola Beach
It’s hard to predict Pensacola Beach’s surf too far in advance, but we typically have between 150 and 200 choppy, rideable days in a year, mostly in the winter and early spring.

Since most of our surf comes from strong southeast winds, the waves come in at an angle providing lengthy rides despite the chop.

We like to refer to Pensacola Beach’s surf style as “drop and go”—that’s to say, when you check the surf cam that morning and see the surf’s good, drop what you’re doing and get out to the beach because it may not last.

Surfing on Pensacola Beach

When’s the Best Time to Surf?

You have a number of choices when it comes to pier and bridge fishing. If you’re interested in the main attraction, you’ll want to head to the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier, which is one of the biggest piers in the state, measuring nearly 1,500 feet long. The Gulf Pier is right in the heart of Pensacola Beach, so you can’t miss it. You’re also only a quick walk away from some impressive restaurants, bars, and all those miles of sugar-white sand. For a more rustic change of scenery, you could head out to the pier at Fort Pickens, the historic military fort on the western edge of the island.

As for what you’re gonna catch? For bigger fish, you’re looking at mainly Cobia and King Mackerel. You’ll want to go down toward the end of the pier and the deeper waters to get to them. The Gulf Pier has an unspoken “first spot” rule with Cobia, where the person who first notices it gets the initial cast. For smaller catches, you have Redfish, Flounder, Sheepshead, Pompano, and Spanish Mackerel, among others, which you’re likely to find closer to the shore. And don’t feel self-conscious: if you hook something big and can’t pull it in, ask for help! There’s sure to be a seasoned regular around who knows the drill.

In fact, on a busy day, the piers of Pensacola Beach are buzzing with regulars and visitors alike looking to land that great catch. You’ll find long stretches of quiet and calm, where everyone is just taking in the sunshine and the salty breeze. Then, suddenly someone gets a bite, starts running down the pier, and battles with nature itself to reel in their catch. Seeing someone land a massive Cobia or King Mackerel is something you won’t soon forget. But even just watching a parent teach their kid to fish can really warm the heart.

Surfing on Pensacola Beach

Where are the Best Surf Spots?

If you’re planning a trip to Pensacola Beach and have at least half a day to spend fishing, consider booking a charter vessel. While chartering a boat is pricier than fishing off the pier or surf fishing on the beach, it has many benefits, especially for visitors who don’t already have a lot of gear or want more of a guided experience. Most charters include everything you’ll need for a full day of fishing, and they provide access to a highly knowledgeable crew that knows exactly where the best spots are depending on the time and season. Chartering an excursion out on the water is like customizing a fishing trip just for you. Getting out to sea, watching the crystal-clear water flow past, the thrill of trying to hook a Sailfish—it’s hard to put into words just how exhilarating an experience it can be, so you’ll just have to try it for yourself!

There are a few options at your disposal. If you’re an old hand with a rod and reel, looking for a more affordable experience, you can seek out a walk-on charter or one of the many large “party boats” frequenting the waters. Or if you need a bit more flexibility than a potentially busy chartered boat—either because you’re still a beginner or because you’re looking for a very specific kind of trip—you’ll want to consider hiring a private boat so you’re the captain’s sole concern. The right captain can make all the difference: they’ll guide you out there, give you tips, keep your lines in the water, and clean your fish at the end of the day so you can have them for dinner back at home or your hotel or campsite. If you ask your captain, they can even recommend some restaurants that will cook your catches for you.

Getting Here

Whether you’re loading up the car with kids, gear and the pets or flying commercial find useful tips here.

Lodging

From waterfront condo style suites, gulf view hotel rooms, vacation rentals and campsites we’ve got all of the options covered.

Beach Report

Check out the latest daily conditions out here on Pensacola Beach.

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