Gulf Islands Nat’l
Johnson Beach

Gulf Islands National Seashores are located in various places throughout the Pensacola Bay Area, which include: The Naval Live Oaks Visitor Center, Fort Pickens and Perdido Key Beach (Johnson Beach). Please note the following: FORT PICKENS/SANTA ROSA ISLAND: Access to the area is by boat only and visitors may access the beaches east of the Campground Registration/Ranger Station. Road construction areas and the developed area west of the station remain closed. The Florida Department of Transportation is rebuilding sections of the Fort Pickens Road. Historic Fort Pickens which has been standing since 1834 held its ground during the hurricane with only minor damage. Lead roofing was placed over the sallyport and sink holes filled in along the parade ground. There is increased erosion around the casemates and the tower bastion will be buttressed by sand. Paneling has been added to the Fort Pickens Visitor Center which will, once again, provide books, memorabilia and educational materials about Gulf Islands National Seashore for visitor enjoyment. The popular Firehouse concession area will be fully operational when the park reopens. 

Great restricted beach

My family and I loved be going to this beach. There isn’t the rush like the tourist beaches elsewhere in Pensacola. The restricted access keeps some people out. Military are free. The beach is spacious. They have gazebos and grills by the main entrance. If you go past that then you can go out on the beach by using the wooden bridges. Don’t walk over the dunes. They do not have umbrellas so bring your own. You can even do some fishing from the beach if you like.

Per person (pedestrian, cyclist, etc.)…………………………..$7
Motorcycle…………………………………………………………..$10
Private vehicle (capacity <15)…………………………………$25
Private vehicle (capacity >15)……$7 per person; up to $25