Discover the Bike-Ability of Downtown Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, and Navarre
Exploring the beautiful areas of downtown Pensacola, Pensacola Beach, and Navarre on a bike is an experience like no other. Biking offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the most beautiful beaches in the world and endless opportunities to enjoy the surroundings in a way that’s simply not possible from inside a car. From breathtaking sunsets at Fort Pickens to vibrant farmers markets and delightful beachfront restaurants, biking is the best way to experience these areas!
Downtown Pensacola: A Cyclist’s Paradise
Downtown Pensacola is a bustling hub of activity, perfect for cyclists looking to explore. Palafox St. is heart of downtown Pensacola. There are fine dining restaurants, outdoor bars serving up pizza by the slice, museums, theatre and so much more! Cruise down there from your hotel or rental and take a stroll. You’ll never run out of things to do.
One of the standout attractions is the Palafox Market a lively farmers market held every Saturday from 9AM to 2PM. Biking to the market allows you to navigate the downtown scene easily. Secure your bike at one of the many bike racks available, avoiding the hassle of finding a parking spot for your car.
As you pedal through downtown, you’ll come across numerous bike-friendly businesses. The Perfect Plain Brewing Co. and Union Public House are just a couple of the establishments that offer bike racks for their patrons. Exploring downtown on a bike also lets you take in the charming historic district and its beautiful architecture at a leisurely pace.
Pensacola Beach: Sunsets & Sandy Shores
Pensacola Beach is renowned for its stunning sunsets, particularly at Fort Pickens. Cycling to Fort Pickens gives you the chance to witness these breathtaking views up close, with the bonus of avoiding the crowded parking lots. There are bike racks conveniently located at various points, making it easy to lock up your bike while you enjoy the scenery.
During peak tourist season, parking on Pensacola Beach can be a challenge. However, biking offers a stress-free solution. Many restaurants and businesses cater to cyclists by providing bike racks. For instance, Casino Beach Bar & Grille is a popular spot with bike racks right out front, making it easy for you to park your bike and enjoy a meal with a view. Be sure to ask about the ‘Grouben’ and try the award-winning bushwhacker.
The Scenic Route: Navarre to Pensacola
One of the most enjoyable cycling routes is the stretch from Navarre to Pensacola along Highway 98. This scenic route offers stunning views of the coastline and is a favorite among cyclists. The well-maintained bike lanes and paths make for a safe and enjoyable ride. Don’t miss the chance to load up your snorkeling gear and check out the artificial reef, perfect for shore diving.
In Navarre, you’ll find bike-friendly spots like the Juana’s Pagodas & Sailors’ Grill, where you can easily lock up your bike before enjoying some delicious food and live music. The journey itself is filled with picturesque stops, perfect for taking a break and snapping some photos.
More Fun on Two Wheels
Biking through these areas offers a level of freedom and fun that you just can’t get from a car. You can easily stop at local attractions, take in the sights, and enjoy spontaneous adventures. Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the Gulf Islands National Seashore or navigating the charming streets of downtown Pensacola, biking makes it all more accessible and enjoyable.
No one comes to Pensacola to experience it behind the glass of a hotel or a car window. Florida is meant to be explored intimately, and like one superstar asked,”Florida, can I use you up?”
Check out e-bike availability here and learn how to experience Florida in the least environmentally impactful way here.
A note from the writer: Beach E Bike Rentals is a client of KGriffin Consulting. I wanted to craft a story that would inspire people to explore Pensacola on two wheels instead of one. This is one of the most adventurous clients I have had the pleasure of working with. Collecting research and exploring my city through the lens of a tourist was a different and insightful pace. I hope this inspired some to get active, slow down and explore their home or rethink their commute around town.