Scenic Highway 399 Beach Drive
Pristine, undeveloped beaches along the Gulf Islands National Seashore, offering a serene escape from the crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Scenic Highway 399 Beach Drive
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Pristine, undeveloped beaches along the Gulf Islands National Seashore, offering a serene escape from the crowds.
"Great natural beach. There's just two rows of parking, no bathroom or shower or water spicket."
🚗 Limited Parking
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking spots are scarce and fill up fast. :car:
💧 Pack All Your Essentials
No restrooms or showers here! Bring water, snacks, and everything you need for a full day. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Natural Beaches
Along Scenic Highway 399
Experience the Gulf Coast in its natural, uncrowded state with miles of beautiful, undeveloped shoreline.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Eastern end of Pensacola Beach
Explore protected dunes and diverse wildlife in this stunning national park area.
Blue Angels Practice Flights
Near Pensacola Beach
Witness the awe-inspiring precision of the Blue Angels during their practice sessions.
Nighttime Glow Paddle
Pensacola Beach watersports rentals
Experience the magic of kayaking or canoeing under the stars with illuminated watercraft.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Beauty
Pack Smart for a Pristine Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking spots are scarce and fill up fast. :car:
💧 Pack All Your Essentials
No restrooms or showers here! Bring water, snacks, and everything you need for a full day. :water_wave:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense. Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for ultimate protection. :sunwithface:
🌊 Embrace the Natural Vibe
Enjoy the undeveloped beauty. It's a great spot for a more serene beach experience. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking spots are scarce and fill up fast. :car:
💧 Pack All Your Essentials
No restrooms or showers here! Bring water, snacks, and everything you need for a full day. :water_wave:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun is intense. Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for ultimate protection. :sunwithface:
🌊 Embrace the Natural Vibe
Enjoy the undeveloped beauty. It's a great spot for a more serene beach experience. :ocean:
✈️ Blue Angels Schedule
Check the Blue Angels' practice schedule in advance for a chance to see them fly! :airplane:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the natural beauty and uncrowded shores of Scenic Highway 399, calling it a 'beautiful creation of Lord Jesus' and a great place to experience the beach in its natural state. The ample space for various beach activities is a significant plus. However, the lack of basic amenities like restrooms and showers is a recurring point of concern for many.
"Awesome beach for family and friends with plenty of room for beach goers, kayaking, sunbathers, and fishermen!"
Rich Hinckley
"One of many stops along the National Park - Seashores Drive in Pensacola, FL. It takes 45 minutes drive at 25 mph from Pensacola Beach"
Bao Anh Dinh
"Beautiful creation of Lord Jesus"
I A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scenic Highway 399, also known as Beach Drive, is located east of Pensacola Beach. You can access it by driving east on Gulf Islands National Seashore's Fort Pickens Road and then turning onto Highway 399. It's a beautiful drive that leads to more secluded beach areas.
Public transportation options are very limited for this natural stretch of highway. It's best to have your own vehicle to explore the area at your own pace.
It takes about a 45-minute drive at 25 mph from the main Pensacola Beach area to reach the start of the more natural sections of Scenic Highway 399.
The speed limit is generally 25 mph, encouraging a leisurely drive. The road is well-maintained but can be narrow in places, winding through dunes and natural landscapes.
Yes, Scenic Highway 399 connects to Navarre Beach, offering a scenic route between the two areas. It's a popular choice for a scenic drive along the coast.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Scenic Highway 399 is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. You will need to pay an entrance fee to access the National Seashore. Fees vary, but an annual pass is also available.
The Gulf Islands National Seashore generally has daylight access hours. It's advisable to check the official National Park Service website for the most current operating hours and any potential closures.
While there isn't a separate parking fee for the beach access points along Highway 399, you do need to pay the entrance fee for the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Parking is first-come, first-served.
No, parking spots are not reservable. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is the best strategy to secure a spot.
The Blue Angels practice sessions are typically free to watch from designated viewing areas near Pensacola Beach. However, parking in those areas can be challenging and may have associated costs.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Amenities are very limited. You won't find restrooms, showers, or water spigots directly on the beach. It's a natural beach experience, so come prepared with everything you need.
Compared to the main Pensacola Beach, Scenic Highway 399 offers a much less crowded experience, especially on weekdays. It's ideal for those seeking a more natural and serene beach environment.
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and beachcombing. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular, especially with rental options for night paddles.
Yes, it's a great family-friendly destination if you're prepared for the lack of amenities. The natural setting and ample space make it enjoyable for kids to play.
Absolutely! Fishing is a popular activity along Scenic Highway 399, with plenty of space for anglers to cast their lines.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food vendors directly on Scenic Highway 399. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks or plan to eat before or after your visit in Pensacola Beach or Navarre.
For great burgers, check out Brown Bagger in Pensacola Beach. Many other seafood and casual dining options are available in Pensacola Beach and Navarre.
Yes, picnics are a great idea! Since there are no food services, packing a picnic is the best way to enjoy a meal with a view. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The closest grocery stores and convenience stores are located back in Pensacola Beach. It's recommended to stock up before heading out onto Scenic Highway 399.
Seafood is king in Pensacola Beach, with fresh catches being a highlight. You'll also find plenty of casual beachside cafes and burger joints.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the natural dunes, pristine beaches, and the Gulf of Mexico. Sunrises and sunsets here are particularly breathtaking.
While you can see them from a distance, the best vantage points for photographing the Blue Angels are closer to the Naval Air Station Pensacola or designated viewing areas in Pensacola Beach.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh.
Look for the vibrant yellow flowers that bloom along the dunes, adding a pop of color to your beach photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sky. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tip for families: Since there are no restrooms or showers, pack extra water, snacks, and all necessary beach gear. Consider bringing a portable potty for very young children. The lack of amenities means you'll need to be extra prepared, but the natural beauty and fewer crowds can make it a rewarding experience for a family day out.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Pro-tip: Consider purchasing an annual pass for the National Seashore if you plan to visit multiple times or other National Parks within a year. This can offer significant savings. Also, carpooling can help reduce fuel costs for your scenic drive.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss: The vibrant yellow flowers that dot the dunes add a beautiful splash of color to your photos. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife, especially shorebirds. While you might see the Blue Angels from a distance, for dedicated Blue Angels photography, consider locations closer to their base.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gulf Islands National Seashore
Within the National Seashore, you can find opportunities for beachcombing, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The limited amenities underscore the area's commitment to preservation, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate a more rugged and natural beach experience. Remember that this area is managed by the National Park Service, so be sure to check their guidelines for responsible visitation.
For those interested in history, the nearby Fort Pickens offers a fascinating look into coastal defense. The drive itself along Highway 399 is an experience, with scenic overlooks and pull-offs allowing you to stop and soak in the views. It’s a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Florida Panhandle.
The Thrill of the Blue Angels
To catch a practice flight, it's crucial to check the Blue Angels' official schedule beforehand, as dates and times can vary. Many visitors find that the area around Pensacola Beach offers good, albeit sometimes distant, viewing opportunities. The sheer power and precision of the pilots are awe-inspiring, making it a highlight for many travelers.
While you might catch a glimpse from Highway 399, for the best experience and closer views, consider heading to designated viewing areas closer to the Naval Air Station Pensacola or the main Pensacola Beach boardwalk. The roar of the engines and the sight of the iconic blue and gold jets against the sky is a truly spectacular event.
Unique Watersports Adventures
These night paddles are often offered by local rental companies in Pensacola Beach. Imagine gliding through the calm waters under the stars, with the gentle glow of your kayak or paddleboard illuminating the way. It's a fantastic way to see the coastline from a different perspective and enjoy the Gulf of Mexico after sunset.
Other watersports like dolphin watching tours and fishing charters are also readily available in the Pensacola Beach area, offering further ways to explore the coastal environment. Whether you're seeking adventure or a serene experience, the waters around Scenic Highway 399 provide ample opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit