When we travel, there is always a hope that we’ll discover something unique to bring home with us. Not just a souvenir or photograph, but an experience and leaves an impression on the soul.

I didn’t expect Pensacola Beach to be much different from the other famous beaches we’ve visited in the last week but as soon as we crossed the Bob Sikes Bridge, I could feel that it was. The way the water glistened in the late afternoon sun. The salty smell wafting in from all directions. That special something was here, living and breathing in the sugar white sands of the Gulf.

We originally planned on staying at the campground at Fort Pickens, which is located at the end of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, but we weren’t sure how we would get around. Jay called a few car rental places while we cruised the strip but nothing was open unless we could get to the airport. That was when we saw it: Pensacola Beach RV Resort. This place was literally in the middle of everything and was situated right on the water! We decided right then to stay here instead of Fort Pickens.

Everyone we dealt with at the resort was super nice. While checking in, we discovered one of the gals at the front desk is from Bangor, Maine. Of course, I had to mention Stephen King and it just so happens she is the second cousin to Tabitha, Mr King’s wife…wicked cool! The reception area is decorated with retro decor and everything was neat and clean.

We were assigned a site in the middle of the campground and we couldn’t have been more than 500 feet from the water. Already, we were thinking about staying a second night but we still didn’t have a way to get around. After about an hour of calling more car rental places, we opted to stay local and rent a couple of beach cruisers from a place next door to the RV park called Funny Cars. We cruised the strip for a couple of hours, did some shopping, and had a frozen drink at Bamboo Willies on the boardwalk.

As the sun began to set, we returned to the campground and walked down to the beach front, where we stayed to marvel at the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen in person. After dark, we walked across the street to a small path that led directly to the Gulf of Mexico and collected seashells in the dark.
This small beach, one of many thousands of beaches in the world, was here just for us this night. It was wonderful!

We sat out in front of Lady T for a bit after returning to the park and then drifted off to sleep with the sound of the water gently lapping the shore. I wish I could tell you where we’ll be tomorrow but tomorrow is just too far away. Goodnight Pensacola!