Opal Beach

Opal Beach, FL-399, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Coordinates: 30.362204, -86.971520 (Exact Location Determined by Permitting)

All of our Wedding Packages are great for this location.

Beach Ratings Page

Permit:  Yes, $350 Flat Rate (*Please note $25/car is not included in the cost of the Permit for ‘Opal Beach – Main Gate’ location).  This includes sites PL1, PL7, and PL8 (Beach Access 36A, 33A, and 32A).  Additional $225 applies for ‘Pavilion A’ inside Opal Beach Main Gate (Includes Pavilion Rental & Parking – 8am to Dusk).  Beach Access 32A, 33A, and 36A have limited parking and do not provide Restrooms, Changing Stations, or Pavilions.

PL1 – Closest to Navarre Beach, FL
PL8 – Closest to Pensacola Beach, FL

24 Pavilions, 5 Restrooms, Toll Booth during Season, 10 Pavilions Available for Rent, Restroom & Concessions, Unlimited Parking

Opal Beach is one of the many splendid beaches that comprise the Gulf Islands National Seashore and is apart of the National Park Service. As is true of the other beaches that are found within the boundaries of this preserve, it is known for its pristine appeal and its overall beauty. The sands at Opal Beach are about as white as can be, and the color contrasts wonderfully with the clear blue Gulf of Mexico waters. The landscape could not be more relaxing, but there are plenty of activities found here as well.

Opal Beach is Northwest Florida’s longest continuous stretch of protected beach. Its length is approximately eight miles, so long strolls are possible if that’s what you have in mind. As is true of the other Pensacola beaches, Opal Beach has stunning white-quartz sand, which often squeaks as you walk on it. The waters that the beach gives access to are often warm, which is good news for swimmers. They are often full of fish as well, in which case you might include Opal Beach on your list of Pensacola fishing spots.

Large dunes are located along Opal Beach Pensacola Florida, and on the other side of these dunes is a hiking and biking trail that is popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Other things that Opal Beach visitors might look to take advantage of are the public restrooms and showers. Picnic pavilions are also available for visitor use, which helps to counter the fact that you won’t find any food outlets along this protected strip of sand.

A few miles east of Pensacola Beach is where you can find Opal Beach. All you have to do is hop on State Route 399 to get there. If coming from Pensacola Beach, Opal Beach will eventually come up on the Gulf side, which is the right side. Go too far, and you will hit Navarre Beach, which is just one more beach that deserves a look.

Nearest Hotels

Springhill Suites By Marriott Navarre Beach
Address8375 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone(850) 939-0010

Summerwind Resort by Dale E. Peterson Vacations
Address8577 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone(855) 421-0234

Beach Colony Resort
Address8501 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone(850) 939-4249

Reception Locations

24 Large Pavilions – overall there are five groups of Pavilions, labeled A through E, with each group having one restroom and four picnic pavilions, four to six tables in each.  None are bolted down and therefore able to be shuffled for preferred seating and/or setup!  Two of the Four pavilions in each group can be reserved – one has two grills, the others do not and are first come, first served.

Juana’s Pagodas
Waterfront bar & grill with lots of entertainment, including live music, beach volleyball & pool.
Address1451 Navarre Beach Causeway, Navarre, FL 32566
Hours 8AM–2AM
Phone(850) 939-1092

Lagerheads on the Gulf
Funky, beachfront hangout providing burgers & other American eats, plus cocktails & patio seating.
Located in: Gulf Islands National Seashore
Address8579 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
Hours 11AM–12AM
Phone(850) 710-3103