There is so much more to Pensacola Beach than the world-class, white sand and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico! If you never leave the Beach, everyone would understand too! But if you take some time to explore the area, you will find what makes the Panhandle of Florida such a great place to vacation and live.
Northern Pensacola ~ L.A. (Lower Alabama)
Looking for a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities? Head north. Freshwater rivers, lakes, woodlands, camping, hunting, boating, golf courses, hiking, cycling, and geocaching opportunities abound. The Escambia County Equestrian Center offers year-round opportunities as well. You will find rodeos, dog shows, dressage, monster trucks, go-kart and motorcycle racing, as well as daily public walking and horse trails. Check it out!
But that isn't all. The north 'burbs are not all rustic charm. There is more to see and it is constantly growing. New restaurants and shopping are always popping up.
Pensacola East ~ History and More History
Just east of the downtown is some of the oldest and most historic homes and neighborhoods of Pensacola. Don Tristan de Luna’s 1559 settlement, America's First Settlement, can be found at the waterfront in this district.
Emmanuel Point has been the location of on-going archaeological studies by the University of West Florida. Pre-dating the St. Augustine Spanish settlement, the Spanish attempt to colonize Florida failed after a hurricane sank their ships and decimated their food stores.
But now the area is thriving. The beautiful neighborhoods, shops and restaurants make it one of the most popular places to live and visit in Pensacola. The oldest bakery in Pensacola, J's Bakery on 12th Avenue, has been operating since 1946. And the famous Graffiti Bridge stands at the entrance to Bayou Texar, which is lined with beautiful, waterfront homes, parks, marinas, and restaurants.
Along the route connecting the Bayou and E. Cervantes St. (Scenic Route 90), you can find some of Pensacola's most iconic and beloved restaurants, like Jerry's Drive-In. Or wind your way up the Bayou to 12th Avenue and continue east to wind your way back down Bayou Blvd. to the Marina Oyster Bar and back to E.Cervantes St. There is so much to see and explore, if you want to find the hidden gems in Pensacola.
Not everyone who comes to the beach can tear themselves away from the white sand beaches or the amenities of Tiki House Pensacola Beach. But if you have the time and interest to get to know the area more, you won't be disappointed.
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