One of Florida’s leading beach cities has plenty to entice visitors in 2026, with three major anniversaries taking place and a raft of new hotel openings.
Located on the Northwest Gulf Coast in the state’s Panhandle region, Pensacola is known for its 40 miles of white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and, due to its proximity to states such as Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, its relaxed Southern vibe and charm.
Alongside its natural appeal, travellers will discover, a rich history and cultural scene, outdoor activities for all ages, great cuisine and a busy calendar of events throughout the year.
And 2026 will be a particularly significant year for Pensacola, with three major anniversaries taking place.
The world-renowned Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron which has been based in Pensacola since 1955, will mark its 80th anniversary, while Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola celebrates 200 years.
The city will also take part in the wider America 250 commemorations, but with more than 460 years of history, Pensacola will additionally highlight its place as the First European Settlement in the U.S. (1559) and the long-standing connection with St. Augustine through a series of activities titled “From the 1500s with Love…”, exploring stories that pre-date 1776.
For 1559 was the year Spanish explorer Don Tristan de Luna y Arellano first discovered the pristine shores of Pensacola, and this history can be explored today on America’s First Settlement (A1S) Trail in Downtown Pensacola, which is a three-mile historical route featuring 20 stops with QR codes and 70 points of interest.
Other historic sites include Fort Pickens, the Pensacola Lighthouse, and the National Naval Aviation Museum, which features exhibits on naval aviation history and the Blue Angels.
Scuba divers will want to discover the USS Oriskany, currently the world’s largest artificial reef and one of many great diving spots in the area.
And this year will also see new hotels including the boutique Hotel Tristan (opening late 2026) and Tempo by Hilton (late 2026 / early 2027), new rooftop venues, restaurants and waterfront attractions, alongside improved outdoor spaces such as the Perdido Key multi-use path, enhancing access for walkers and cyclists.
Known as the Festival City of the South, Pensacola’s calendar in 2026 includes The Pensacola Seafood Festival, Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival, Frank Brown Songwriters’ Festival, Pensacola Mardi Gras, Pensacola Beach Airshow, Pensacon and the Blue Angels Homecoming Airshow.
Pensacola is easily reached via Pensacola International Airport, with convenient connections from the UK through Atlanta and other major U.S. hubs including New Orleans which is under three hours away.
Hays Travel offers seven nights at The Pensacola Beach Resort from only £1,784pp. The price includes flights from selected UK airports, accommodation at the hotel and is valid for travel on March 23, 2026. The Pensacola Beach Resort is located on Pensacola Beach and offers 4.5-star luxury.
