United States

Pensacola, FL

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Best time to visit

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Mid-September through October is “shoulder season” in western Florida, which makes it the best time to visit Pensacola. During this time—when the weather is moderate and the risk of hurricanes is receding from its late-summer peak—room rates drift down, but activities like surfing or dolphin watching are still at their best. The low season in Pensacola runs from November to February, and is a perfect time to visit for the best price and without crowds of tourists. Wintertime may be chilly, but birdwatching during these months can be an amazing experience. March through early September means peak season in Pensacola. First come the spring breakers, while the summer months draw families looking for beach activities and events like the Pensacola Beach Air Show. Summer days are usually hot, bright, and humid with a chance of hurricanes. Be prepared for skyrocketing prices as well.

19 things to do in Pensacola, FL

Mamey Sapote Harvest

May–July • Food

Sweet and smooth. Don't forget to try this exotic fruit!

Surfing

early August–mid-April • Activity

Not so popular with pro surfers, Florida could nevertheless be attractive for beginners

Wildflowers

March–November • Nature

Discover the best blooming fields of Florida

Kiteboarding and Windsurfing

November–April • Activity

One of top-five wind sports destinations in the United States

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

May 2-4, 2024 • Event

Beach season kick off with dozens of bright balloons

Dolphin Watching

all year round (best in late May–August) • Nature

Observe playful sea mammals all around Florida's coast

Pensacola Interstate Fair

October 17-27, 2024 • Event

The biggest fair on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico

Pensacola Mardi Gras

February 9–10, 2024 • Event

A vibrant celebration with over 150 years of history

Big Lagoon State Park

all year round (best in April–November) • Nature

Go on a kayaking or fishing adventure near Pensacola

Birdwatching

November–March • Activity

In winter, Pensacola area is heaven for a birder

Sea Turtles

May–October • Nature

A few turtle species choose Pensacola beaches as their nesting area

Pensacola Winterfest

November 6–December 24, 2024 • Event

Watch Downtown Pensacola transforming into a true winter wonderland

Hummingbirds

early March–late September • Nature

Our wee friends flock to the Sunshine State as eagerly as tourists do

NAS Pensacola Air Show

November 1-2, 2024 • Event

The loud and spectacular show by America's legendary pilots

Pensacon

February 14-16, 2025 • Event

Plunge into the geeks' universe at Pensacola comic con

4th of July Fireworks & Events

July 4, 2024 • Event

Pensacola welcomes everyone to have lots of fun on the 4th of July

Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival

May 11–20, 2024 • Event

A dream occasion for the lovers of everything pirate-themed

Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade

December 14, 2024 • Event

Join over 50,000 people at a huge Christmas parade in Pensacola

Pensacola Memorial Day Weekend Events

May 23–27, 2024 • Event

Welcome summer on the beach along the beautiful Emerald Coast of Florida

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