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The Pensacola Region is named after Pensacola, a city located in western Florida. The region covers parts of both Alabama and Florida. The most notable thing about the region is the wide variety of white sandy beaches. Pensacola Beach and Orange Beach are two of the most highly visited beaches in the region, with many other surrounding beaches to choose from. The two largest cities in the area are Mobile and Pensacola. Smalling surrounding cities include Crestview, Milton, Fairhope, and Daphne. The area has a humid and tropical climate and averages around 88 degrees in the summer months and around 65 degrees during the winter months.[8] There is an abundance of beaches that can be found throughout the region and are highly ranked when it comes to beaches in the country.
The Pensacola Region pulls in many people because of the pleasant weather that is enjoyed year-round. The warm winters make it easy for residents and tourists alike to participate in various outdoor activities during the entire year, including fishing, boating, biking, snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, and golfing. Golfing in particular is an activity with a wide assortment of options nearby. Golf courses in the area include Perdido Bay Golf Course, Rock Creek Golf Course, Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club, among others. Orange Beach and Pensacola Beach are two highly visited beaches in the area. Orange Beach is known for water sports and the white sand. Pensacola Beach is also known for its white sand, as well as fishing, and turquoise water. Around 2 million people visit the Pensacola Region annually. March to early September tends to be the peak season for tourism in the area. One of the best times to visit the area is during September or October because there are fewer crowds and the warm weather from the summer carries into the autumn season. This is the time to avoid the large influxes of families and spring breakers which are common during the summer.[4]
Tourism is a huge part of the region. The beaches, warm weather, events, festivals, and history draw millions of people into the area each year. Pensacola is known for more than the famous beaches; they are also known for their military heritage. The Naval Air Station is located in Pensacola, as well as the Blue Angels/U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron.[3] Other attractions that can be found in Downtown Pensacola include various shops, restaurants, museums, and historical parks. Downtown is a unique spot to visit because it is where the first city in America was formed. The city has grown but still shows much of the history and culture that have taken place in Pensacola. Pensacola Children's Museum is one of the popular attractions in the area. The museum includes interactive exhibits and activities for kids to learn about Pensacola's history. The National Naval Aviation Museum is another popular stop on the list of things to do while in the area. The museum has over 150 restored military aircraft for visitors to see.[10] Seafood is a big hit in the region and is widely available. Captain Joey Patti's Seafood Restaurant & Deli is known for its' famous gumbo and serves various seafood. Fresh shrimp, salmon, crab patty, and more are all found in the area.
The Pensacola Region covers parts of Florida and Alabama. Blackwater River State Forest is included in the region and is one of the largest forests in Florida. Fishing is a very popular activity in Pensacola. Mobile and Pensacola are the two largest cities that are covered in the region. Mobile is the third most populated city in Alabama and is known for its Marid Gras or Carnival celebrations. Settlers dating back to the 18th century have been celebrating these events.[9]
Pensacola is well known for its military heritage and has multiple military bases in the area, including the Naval Air Station.[3] Various beaches are included in the region, such as Orange Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Miramar Beach, and Pensacola Beach. Pensacola Beach is known for its white sand, turquoise water, and fishing opportunities. Types of fish caught at the pier include bluefish, pompano, redfish, Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Gulf Whiting (Kingfish), ladyfish, and bonito.[5] Mullets are grey fish with a toothless mouth and are found in tropical waters. Mullets are considered to be a local delicacy in the Pensacola Region.[6]
Pensacola is famous for its pecan company that started in 1956, called the J.W. Renfroe Pecan Co. The company has expanded across Florida, Alabama, and Georgia. Pensacola is known for its temperate weather throughout the year. The warmest months are June through September, with the high being around 88 degrees (Fahrenheit) and the low being around 77 degrees. The coldest months in Pensacola are around 65 degrees, with a low of 51 degrees, and lasts December through February. Pensacola's peak season tends to be from March to mid-September, with the high ranging from 70 degrees to 89 degrees as an average over the course of that time. June, July and August are the months that receive the most precipitation, averaging about 12 rainy days out of the month.[2]
Pensacola Beach is one of the most prominent geographical draws to the area. It was awarded TripAdvisor's 2015 Traveler's Choice Award and made it in the nation's top five beaches.[3] Pensacola Beach is unique because it has one of the longest barrier islands in the world, it is known for its white sand, it offers a wide variety of fishing, and it has many local shops and restaurants.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers inhabited what is now known as the Pensacola Region. The name came from the Native American tribe, called the Pensacola. Pensacola became the biggest port of the Gulf of Mexico.[8] Pensacola has a rich history that the area is proud of. Specifically, five different flags have flown over the city over the course of its history. These flags include those of Spain, France, Britain, the confederates, and that of the United States of America. This adds to the vast diversity of culture and history that can be found in the region. The city has been referred to as "The City of the Five Flags." Pensacola has various events, including festivals and parades, to celebrate and remember its unique heritage.[3]
There are around 52,00 people in the area. About 63% of the population are Caucasian, 28% African American, 2% Asian, 0.6% Native American, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 2.3% from two or more races, and 3.3% are Hispanic or Latino. 45.9% of the population in Pensacola consider themselves to be religious or are affiliated with a religion. Most residents in the area identify as Baptists.[8] The history is something the Pensacola Region takes pride in and makes sure to keep alive today. There are various historical attractions and museums in the area so that visitors and locals can learn about and remember the area's rich history.
The Hibiscus Coffee and Guesthouse is a bed and breakfast that is a short distance away from Grayton Beach in the city of Santa Rosa Beach. Three buildings make up the establishment, and they have a grand total of thirteen rooms between them. While a majority of the rooms are unable to accommodate pets, there are multiple rooms that are specifically pet-friendly. The property has a much larger backyard area where guests are able to sit and enjoy the outside. They are also able to host events for special occasions, such as weddings, live music, and other events. Guests tend to compliment the property and appreciate the proximity and how close it is to nearby attractions. Along with the rooms and guesthouse, The Hibiscus Coffee and Guesthouse also have a café that is called Hibiscus Café, which is where breakfast is served.
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