Pensacola beach, white sands and blue water.

If white sand and blue water beaches are to your liking, then Pensacola Beach is the right place for you. I have been going to these beaches all my life. One memory that has always stood out is the cross. This 10 foot high cross was erected in 1959 to mark the first Christian mass held in the United States. Having withstood all of nature's fury, folks ask why is the cross and its dune still here when so much of the island has been changed. Whether swimming, surfing, or fishing there is plenty to do here. Pensacola Beach has great tourist attractions. So let's get started.

If you came to do some fishing, you can find a secluded stretch of beach and cast your line in the Gulf of Mexico. There is also the fishing pier, at 1471 feet, it is one of the gulf's longest.Catches include Cobia, King and Spanish Mackerel, Pompano, Mahi Mahi, Redfish, Flounder, and Tarpon.

When at Pensacola Beach,the kids will have a blast here too. There are go carts, miniture golf,and wave runner rentals for the adults at Bonifay Water Sports and go carts which the kids will love. The staff is friendly and helpful. At this beach, there is fun for all. See you there.

If you've been out in the sun for awhile and would like something cold to drink, you could stop by The Dock. There is an outdoor bar serving cold drinks including beer. The bar is also shady and in full view of the beach. It is handicap accessible from the parking lot.

When you arrive be sure to check out the tourist information center. Follow the street into the beach and it will be on your right. I stopped in for some pamphlets that the local businesses post here. I also picked up a map that shows where these are located.

If you get hungry while at the beach stop by Flounder's Chowder House. They have been voted Best Seafood Restaurant by the locals. Founded in 1979, this is your beach connection for fresh gulf seafood. There is also a kid's play area on their beach. They are on your left when you reach the main intersection.

If you are planning a Pensacola beach trip there are some things you need to bring. 1. A swimsuit is a must, but bring along some extra clothing so when you leave you won't be wearing your sandy swimwear. 2. Flip flops or sandals will help your feet in your travels around the beach. Bring your UV sunglasses also. 3. Bring your own food and drinks versus buying the expensive beach food. Don't bring glass of any kind. 4. Bring a towel for each person for drying if you shower after your swim. 5. If you bring kids be sure to keep an eye on them and have them swim close to the lifeguards. 6. Lastly bring along plenty of sunscreen. Make sure you apply sunscreen on yourself 30 minutes prior to being exposed to the sun. Also, keep in mind that just because a bottle claims to be waterproof, it doesn't mean that you shouldn't re-apply after getting out of the water. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Pay attention to the warning signs and flags you see when you arrive. If you aren't sure where they are, ask the lifeguards. Don't forget to ask about any rip currents or under tow also.

There will a new hotel opening on Pensacola Beach by a name associated with beaches and relaxation. Jimmy Buffet will open his new Margaritaville Hotel and Margaritaville Restaurant very soon. The hotel will be located on a stretch of beach where Hurricane Ivan destroyed a hotel back in 2004. There will more than 800 feet of gulf front property as well as 800 feet overlooking the bay. The 162 rooms and suites will have all the hi-tech touches everyone likes as well as reminders of why you are there, a beachfront tropical escape. The restaurant will serve up your favorite coastal dishes with a southern flair. There will also be a business center, health and fitness room, and a meeting facility for smaller gatherings. Planned for the future is a water park. Just thought I would let everyone know that the beach is still alive and well.

For a map of the beach businesses click on this link. Finding your way around will make your vacation more enjoyable.

Oh yeah, for those of you who enjoy island beaches and happen to find yourself in the New England area, check this out... In my humble opinion, Block Island beaches are of the most beautiful in the world. Summer brings the crowds of families and sunbathers as well as a healthy throng of boaters, however the rest of the year is quiet, allowing mother nature to restore the pristine balance of sea and land. The ocean is accessible around the entire island. Explore the unspoiled shoreline and find your favorite spot. Here we go..... Block Island Beaches

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