I recently heard of a little-known paddling destination on Pensacola Beach that enticed me to get out and do some exploring. I wasn’t disappointed. Big Sabine Bay is a beautiful shallow bay located on the east side of Pensacola Beach. This beautiful estuary is a great place to kayak and paddleboard. The landscape includes dunes, pine groves, and salt marshes. The wildlife includes crabs, rays, and other marine life.
During our paddle, we were excited to spot a Bald Eagle (see below in the photos). We paddled as close as we could before it flew off. In the water, we saw crabs scurry along the bottom and saw a few rays.
The area is peaceful and a great place to enjoy a part of natural Florida. This section of Pensacola Beach is part of the UWF Dune Preserve and sits at the gate of the Gulf Island National Seashore.
Directions to Big Sabine Bay
The bay is east of Pensacola Beach, approximately two miles from Portofino. We parked just outside the gate to the National Seashore. If you carry boards or kayaks, be prepared to walk over flat, sandy ground. If you prefer to boat to Big Sabine Bay, you might consider renting a pontoon boat.
Big Sabine Bay is a beautiful shallow bay located on the east side of Pensacola Beach. This beautiful estuary is a great place to kayak and paddleboard. The landscape includes dunes, pine groves and salt marshes. The wildlife includes crabs, rays and other marine life.
Photos of Big Sabine Bay
