Destination features white-sand beaches, 460 years of history, arts, culture, signature events, culinary, and more

Pensacola, Fla. - Pensacola has long been celebrated for its welcoming sugar-white sands and clear blue-green water, but beyond its beaches, there is much more to explore in this Nortwest Florida beach desination. Pensacola is The Way to Beach™.

“The Way to Beach™ is Pensacola, Florida because it's not just any beach with beautiful water and white sand – it has arts, food, neighborhoods, and a community that makes it truly the best destination to live, work, play, and visit.

Adventure at your Own Speed: From lazing under an umbrella with an icy cold bushwhacker in hand to paddling on the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, there's an adventure for every type of person. For the nature lovers, enjoy sunrise hikes across the Gulf Islands National Seashore looking for seasonal birds, dolphins, and historic war forts.

Gulf-to-Table Gives Fresh a Whole New Meaning: Feast your eyes and your taste buds on delectable flavors with sunset waterfront views along Pensacola's coastline. Locally harvested oysters, fresh red snapper straight from the Gulf of Mexico and seasonal herbs and produce are just a few of the items that will grace your plate. Feeling adventurous? Hop on a charter boat and try your hand at catching your own meal.

Arts, Culture and Entertainment Await: As the only destination between New Orleans and Jacksonville to boast the big five, there's something year-round for everyone. Big-city entertainment like the ballet, opera, symphony, theatre, and art galleries feature shows throughout the year attuned to any cultural taste. Annual festivals like Foo Foo Festival, Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival and the Pensacola Seafood Festival highlight state-of-the-art artistic happenings.

Discover a Historic Melting Pot: Did you know that Pensacola, Florida is America's first settlement? In 1559, Spanish Conquistador Don Tristan de Luna traveled on an expedition that included 11 ships from Veracruz, Mexico, to establish Pensacola. For a peak into Pensacola's past life, the Pensacola Historic District beckons travelers with living history demonstrations, 19th-century homes and colonial wear. Over in Belmont-Devilliers, known locally as The Blocks, experience the commercial and cultural hub of Pensacola's historic black community. Today, vibrant murals and the city's best fried chicken can be found here. On the west side of Pensacola, the world's largest naval aviation museum is home to more than 150 aircraft and attractions that the whole family can enjoy. On most Tuesdays throughout the year, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels can be seen practicing from the flight deck outside!

With an average of 343 days of sunshine, countless events, and fresh outdoor fun, Visit Pensacola is The Way to Beach ™ for those looking to book solo travel, a family-friendly vacation, a girlfriends or guys getaway and much more. For more information on Visit Pensacola and to start planning your next holiday, visit www.visitpensacola.com.