Pensacola Beach On A Budget

Want to hit the beach, sink your feet into the white sand, and enjoy crystal clear waters? Who doesn’t?! What if I said you didn’t have to go to islands in the Caribbean to experience it? Enter Pensacola, Florida! The laid back atmosphere, beaches, and fun in the sun lifestyle there is plenty to enjoy! Perfect as a couple, family, or solo traveler. I’ll go over where to stay, places to eat, and activities to enjoy in Pensacola on a budget!

Where To Stay

I recommend staying in an Airbnb for your stay in Pensacola. Hotels were at least three times more expensive than all of the Airbnb’s I found in the area. I stayed on Pensacola Beach which is the furthest island out from Downtown Pensacola (2 bridges out). It’s a smaller island but has most of the essentials that you need during your vacation.

The Airbnb I reserved was on the bay side of the island which is a short walk to the Gulf side. We drove around the island and any area would really be great to choose from. I do recommend not staying a hotel because they were very overcrowded. It was nice to come back to a house that we had to ourselves. The only downside to our bnb is that the hosts live upstairs and had family over the same time as our stay and could hear EVERY footstep. I would still choose to go the same route just pick a different house layout.

Activities

BEACH: The Gulf side is much prettier, waves are intense depending on the day/time, but the sand is white and water is clean and clear. The bay side is very calm, the sand isn’t as impressive but the water wasn’t as clear and sometimes had a certain smell to it. Any section of the beach we chose from the Gulf side was beautiful and picturesque.

JET SKI & PARASAILING: Driving close to the bridge you will find MANY different companies that offer jet ski rentals and parasailing. For jets skis you need to complete a boat safety course and parasailing is in sets of 2-3 people. That was the most expensive activity which was $110 for 2 people.

Kayak & Paddle Boarding: Rent Kayaks and Paddle board around the bay! You can rent them at most of the same places and then still have time to enjoy the outdoors. Great for anyone looking to switch it up from a beach day and get some exercises in.

 

Places To Eat

Most of the restaurants on the island are in the same area of town. Right off of the bridge there are tons of cafe’s, restaurants, shops, boutiques, etc that are located closest to all of the big hotels. Most are fish centered menus which isn’t a shocker. If you are like me, Vegan or Gluten Free it might be a little but more difficult to find a wide variety to eat. For the most part I was stuck to salads, sides, and modifying most dishes.

I recommend going to a grocery store on Gulf Breeze Island and stocking up for lunches. Not only can it save you money eating out but then you can also have more control over what you have to choose from. You can also cook at night if you have an Airbnb with a kitchen.

 

It doesn’t have to break the bank to travel and have a blast. I was in Pensacola during PEAK tourist season and still was able to stay on budget. Budget travel is my favorite because then you are able to see plenty of places on your Bucket List and still budget friendly! For more summer city options check out my list of Top 10 Summer Destinations. 

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