Bungalows surf guide

Bungalows is located inside the Perdido Key State Recreation Area off State Road 292, right at the far end of the park. This spot is nestled between Alabama to the west and Pensacola Bay to the east, making it part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Like most of the beaches in the Panhandle, it attracts tourists but also has some decent surf opportunities. You can easily get here by driving west from Pensacola on Hwy 272 or heading east on Hwy 161 from Gulf Shores, Alabama. Just keep in mind, the current usually flows from east to west, which can stir up the waters a bit, but there are plenty of unspoiled beaches and some legit breaks to check out.

The surf at Bungalows is a middle-to-inside beachbreak, with waves that can get pretty fast and hollow on the inside. It works best on the low to mid tide and can handle swell sizes ranging from about 5 to 7 feet (1.5 to 2.1 meters). You’ll find waves breaking over a sandy bottom, with both right and left sides. The ideal swell directions come from the East, Southeast, and South, and the preferable winds are from the Northwest and North directions. This spot is a good choice for surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts, so there’s something for everyone. However, don’t expect it to be too quiet; the crowd factor tends to be medium to high.

Access is pretty straightforward with a parking lot and a boardwalk leading to the beach. The local vibe isn’t strong here, so you won’t feel much pressure from locals. The area is known for its beautiful emerald green waters, adding to the overall experience. If you plan to surf here, the best seasons are fall through spring, including the hurricane season, so keep that in mind when planning your trip.