There’s more to a beach vacation than sand and surf.

Distilled to those basic elements, every Florida beach getaway might seem the same. Yet there are also infinite variables that imprint distinct personalities to stretches of the state’s 1,250 miles of coastline, a distance second only to Alaska:

Breathtaking sunsets on the Gulf Coast. Atlantic Ocean waves that have launched the careers of world-class surfers. Remote dunes dotted by sea oats that offer the perfect spot for a book and a blanket. Fishing piers that are magnets for afternoon anglers. Bustling beaches within walking distance of shops, galleries and nightspots.

So if the view of the blue horizon seems to be the same, look over your shoulder: There’s probably something cool right behind you.

Blue water and Blue Angels

From Central or South Florida, the road trip to Pensacola Beach is a daunting drive, especially the final leg across the seemingly endless Panhandle west from Tallahassee on Interstate 10.

All that windshield time is worth it, however, to catch the first glimpse of sunshine reflecting off the waters of Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico from the Bob Sikes Bridge. It’s the gateway to one of the state’s old-fashioned beach towns, with a rustic flip-flop vibe that persists despite the occasional high-rise condo or beachside resort.

The most recognizable landmark is still the giant beach-ball tower, which casts its shadow on the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier (41 Fort Pickens Road). The 1,500-foot pier offers fishing, entertaining people-watching and a gorgeous sunset view. The more-secluded Opal Beach, with its quiet dunes, is about seven miles west.

There are plenty of shops and restaurants within shouting distance of the pier and adjoining Casino Beach, the busiest piece of Pensacola Beach. For breakfast, sample the breakfast burrito at Native Cafe (45 Via de Luna Drive) and make sure to top it with the homemade salsa.

At lunch, try a dozen oysters, a grouper sandwich and a beer at Peg Leg Pete’s (1010 Fort Pickens Road), where it’s possible to avert the inevitable wait for a table by snagging a spot at one of the two character-laden bars.

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