Some of the best sunrises and sunsets of my whole LIFE have been at Pensacola Beach. With its sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters, Pensacola Beach provides the perfect backdrop for nature’s daily masterpieces. Whether you’re an early riser or a sunset enthusiast, here are some of the best spots to catch these breathtaking moments on Pensacola Beach.

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Of course, you can always go to the main beach ball or boardwalk to see the sunrise or sunset. But that would be boring! This article is about the best Pensacola Beach sunsets and sunrises that are off the beaten path.

The best Pensacola Beach Sunrise spots are:

• Pensacola Bay Bridge
• Shoreline Park

The best Pensacola Beach Sunset spots area:

• Fort Pickens
• Opal Beach

Sunrise: Pensacola Bay Bridge

Hot take: the best place to see the sunrise isn’t actually on the beach, it’s on the bridge connecting Pensacola to Gulf Breeze. 

Pensacola Bay Bridge, otherwise known as Three Mile Bridge, offers breathtaking views of both the sunrise and sunset, but the sunrise is definitely my favorite! The bridge runs north to south, which means there are unobscured views of the Bay from the east and west.

Sunrise at Pensacola Bay Bridge

To get there, you’ll want to pull off on the Gulf Breeze side of the bridge. If coming from Pensacola, cross the whole length of the bridge and make a U-turn when you get to the other side. Before you get on the bridge to cross back into Pensacola, there will be a turn-off to the right. 

When you take the turn-off, you’ll find ample parking spaces, gazebos, and benches. There is also a boat launch!

Sunset: Fort Pickens Historic Site

At the very end of the Gulf Islands National Seashore Fort Pickens Area, you’ll find a supreme spot for sunset viewing.  It’s relatively less crowded because you do have to use your National Parks pass to get to this area.

Sunset at Fort Pickens Historical Site

My favorite thing to do is sit along the concrete wall, let my feet dangle in the sand, and watch the sun disappear behind the horizon. The good thing about this location is, even as the position of the sun shifts throughout the year, you can still pretty much always get a good view of the sunset.

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Sunrise: Shoreline Park

In the heart of Gulf Breeze Proper is a recreation center and, lucky for us, a park with fabulous views of the sunrise. This park also has a swimming area, bathrooms, and ample gazebos and benches along the long fishing dock. There’s also a boat ramp. But what we care about is the sunrise!

The sun will appear right above the Beach Bridge, which is on your left when facing the water. Watching the sun pop up over this bridge is a sight to behold!

Sunset: Opal Beach

There is a stretch of National Seashore between Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach that is perfect for sunset viewing. This is my favorite place to go if I want to get some exercise by walking along the beach as I watch the sun go down. 

Sunset at Opal Beach near Pensacola FL

Since it’s along the national seashore, this beach tends to be less crowded. Remember to always leave no trace when visiting!