Pensacola, FL- Travel Guide with Dogs

Hope you had a great weekend! Eric, the dogs, and I snuck off to Pensacola Beach for a quick weekend trip! I do wish we could have stayed longer, but it was just what we needed—a little R&R. This is our third annual trip down to Pensacola. I had actually never been to Pensacola until our first trip down. Isn’t it funny how you always go to the same beach each year? For me that was Destin, FL, but Eric and I wanted to find somewhere that was dog friendly. So after a little research a couple of years ago and within a four-hour drive from Birmingham, off to Pensacola we went.  

This was Mack’s (our white boxer) first time at the beach, and he LOVED it! Murray (our fawn boxer) has always loved the beach, and I love being able to take them down there with us. Thanks again to Eric’s Marriott discount, we stayed on the bay for $55/ night at the Residence Inn. Normally the rate is $189/ night. What I love about this hotel is the location! It is not far from the trendy places to eat and just over the toll bridge to go to the beach. The room that we always stay in has a kitchen, living room, king-size bed, and bathroom, so it has plenty of room for the two dogs and us. They also have a complimentary breakfast as well. I am usually not a fan of these types of things, but they had so much variety. I was shocked that they even had gluten-free options. Eric and I ate here each morning to try and save a little money.

Westend Dog Beach

Dog-friendly beaches: In the past, Eric and I have tried going to other beaches (Fort Morgan and Orange Beach), and many just aren’t dog-friendly. When we found out Pensacola had not only one, nor two, but three dog parks, we were pumped. My advice is to get to the beach first thing in the morning around 9am or so, and you will have the beach to yourself until about 11am. This is when we let the dogs off their leashes and run free (even though you’re supposed to keep your dog on the leash at all times). There is an East End and West End dog park that is on the beach. Both of these beaches have access to a bathroom as well! A couple of reminders, pick up after your dog, make sure your dogs have their rabies tag on (you can be fined, if they aren't up to date) and make sure your dog is on a leash. 

Eastend Dog Beach

The last dog park is on the bay side on Pensacola called Bayview Park. This park was the closest to our hotel. It had a huge gated area for the dogs to play in the water and also a grassy area for them to run. This park was packed while we were there, so Mack and Murray were able to make a lot of new friends. The dogs loved it! 

Bayview Park Dog Beach

Now, let’s talk food! Some of our favorite places to eat in Pensacola are Shux Oyster Bar and Peg Leg Pete’s. They both have delicious food and great atmospheres. The area where Shux Oyster Bar and The Ruby Slipper Café is called al Fresco—Urban Dining. It is a really cute area where a bunch of airstream trailers or “food trucks” are set up and also has a lot of outdoor seating. The Ruby Slipper is just behind this area and is known for its amazing breakfast. Eric and I have eaten at a couple of other restaurants in this area, but nothing else stood out. As we get to know Pensacola a little more, we have started making a list of the places we want to eat the next time we visit.

Al Fresco- Urban Dining Outdoor Seating

Our last night, we actually drove over to Orange Beach about 35 minutes away and met some of our good friends at Cobalt, The Restaurant. I have eaten here several times, and it has always been delicious. The crab claws and oysters Rockefeller are a must. I am not really an oyster fan, but theirs were on point! They also have an awesome patio that overlooks the bay. Oh and don't let me forget to mention, their Moscow Mules were delicious! 

Oyster Rockefeller

Eric and I really enjoy the pace of Pensacola Beach. It’s not super touristy and is very laid back. We love going this time of year because it’s right before Spring Break (busy season), and the water is always absolutely beautiful. I have to say, this time was the prettiest I have ever seen the water. It was a perfect quick family getaway. Where is your favorite quick place to travel with your family or fur children?