So Sand Island is a small, uninhabited island located just off the coast of Pensacola, Florida. Despite its small size, the island is a popular destination, thanks to its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and rich history. Let’s take a look.
*Featured Image: Nearby Pensacola Beach by Tony Webster.
Sand Island
One of the main attractions of Sand Island is its stunning beaches. It has several miles of white-sand beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The water is crystal clear and the waves are gentle, making it a great place for both children and adults to enjoy. However, be sure to visit during the warmer months, as October to April may be too cold for beach days.
In addition to enjoying the beaches, you can also do several recreational activities here. One good example is birdwatching, with many seabirds and shorebirds on the island or nearby.
Fort Pickens
On nearby Santa Rosa Island you’ll find Fort Pickens. It’s a historic military fort named after Andrew Pickens, a South Carolina politician and military leader during the American Revolutionary War.
Fort Pickens was built in the early 1800s as part of a network of forts designed to defend the United States from foreign invasion. It played a significant role in the Civil War, when it was used as a Union stronghold in the Gulf of Mexico. During World War II, it was a training ground for soldiers.
Today, Fort Pickens is a popular tourist attraction and is managed by the National Park Service as part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Visitors can take guided tours of the fort and learn about its history, or explore the grounds on their own. The fort also has multiple military artifacts and exhibits.
But it’s not just about history; Fort Pickens is also a beautiful place to visit. It’s surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Gulf Coast.
Summing It Up
Overall, Sand Island and the surrounding area is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Pensacola. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, enjoy some recreational activities, or learn about the island’s history, there’s something for everyone here!
I leave you with somebody’s YouTube video so you can get a closer look:
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