Pensacola Pier is a well-known surf spot located on the emerald coast, famous for its clear, beautiful water. After going through some tough times, the pier has made a comeback, attracting surfers once again. It offers a mix of sandbars and rock reefs, providing a variety of surf experiences for different skill levels. Whether you're looking to catch some decent waves after work or spend a whole weekend riding, this spot has a vibe that surfers appreciate.

The waves at Pensacola Pier can range from 2 feet (0.6 meters) to an impressive 14 feet (4.3 meters). It can handle swells from various directions, including EastSouthEast, SouthEast, and up to SouthSouthWest. Most of the time, you’ll find beach breaks and some nice pier waves, with both left and right rides available. The bottom consists of sand inside and a rock reef outside, so knowing your way around during bigger swells is a good idea. Paddling out is generally easy, but be ready for a bit more challenge if you catch it on a bigger day. The best conditions usually come with NW, N, or NE winds and during low to mid tides.

Access is limited, so parking at Pedro Point can be tricky, so remember to be polite to the locals. Expect smaller crowds during off-hours but watch out for large numbers of surfers after 3 p.m. and on weekends. Most surfers here are friendly, but be aware of local vibes on busier days, especially on the big left. If you’re looking to ride whatever board you’ve got, whether it’s a shortboard, fish, funboard, or longboard, this spot can work for you across different seasons, especially in the fall and spring.