Big Lagoon State Park - Pensacola

Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola, Florida, encompasses 704 acres of pristine coastal wilderness on the northern shoreline of Big Lagoon, where the mainland meets Perdido Key and the Gulf of Mexico.

This diverse natural sanctuary protects saltwater tidal marshes, pine flatwoods, scrubby coastal habitats, and intracoastal beaches that attract hundreds of bird species, particularly during spring and fall migrations when the park becomes a birding hotspot.

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Big Lagoon State Park: Pensacola's Hidden Coastal Gem

As an official gateway site for the Great Florida Birding Trail and the starting point of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, a 1,515-mile paddling route encircling the entire state, Big Lagoon State Park offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and crabbing.

The park's shallow protected bays, scenic nature trails, and waterfront picnic areas provide the perfect setting for wildlife viewing, nature photography, and peaceful outdoor recreation just minutes from Pensacola.

Whether you're a serious birder chasing rare species along the migration flyway, a paddler beginning an epic circumnavigation journey, a family seeking easy hiking trails, or simply someone who appreciates authentic Florida coastal ecosystems, Big Lagoon State Park delivers an exceptional outdoor experience.

This complete guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Big Lagoon State Park.

Big Lagoon State Park Hiking Trails and Observation Tower

There is a fantastic boardwalk trail that leads to the observation tower, which offers great views of the park. This is a must visit while visiting Big Lagoon State Park.

If you are not a fan of stairs the view at the end of the boardwalk is gorgeous. If you are able to handle a couple of flights of stairs the view from the observation tower is worth it.

There is space after each flight of stairs to take a deep breath and look like you are really focused on taking photos while getting your breathing to calm down.

The park offers 5 miles of hiking and nature trails.

Sand Pine Loop - 3.1 mile hiking trail that takes you on a loop around Big Lagoon.

Kayaking and Paddling at Big Lagoon State Park

They have kayaks available for rent in a self serve kiosk near the boat launch. You will need your cell phone to scan the QR code to rent a kayak.

The kayak launch is right off of the boardwalk trail to the observation deck.

Bird Watching and Wildlife at Big Lagoon State Park

The park is a bird watchers dream come true! The park is a stop during Spring and Fall Migration for birds after they have crossed the Gulf.

Wildlife in the park includes raccoons, snakes (Florida Cottonmouth and Pygmy Rattlesnakes, Lizards, deer, and more.

Keep an eye out as you are exploring the park to see what birds and wildlife you see. We use the Merlin app on our phone to find out what birds it can identify in the area around us.

What Birds You'll See by Season

Winter Birding (November-February): The bayfront's sandy beaches become winter home to shorebirds including Black-bellied Plovers, Dunlin, and Least Sandpipers. From the East Beach observation tower, scan the bay waters for diving ducks like Lesser Scaup, Redhead, Bufflehead, and Red-breasted Mergansers. Common Loons can be heard calling on foggy mornings from late winter into early spring, and a diverse array of gulls and terns feed in the area's productive waters year-round.

Spring and Fall Migration (March-May, September-November): Big Lagoon State Park truly shines during migration seasons when 23 species of wood-warblers have been recorded moving through the park. These colorful songbirds stop to refuel after their exhausting Gulf crossing, feeding on insects in the oak hammocks throughout the campground and along the park's trails. The Long Pond Trail, which skirts freshwater wetlands before connecting to the Sand Pine Trail along the lagoon's northern edge, offers excellent warbler viewing as these tiny birds forage in the canopy.

Year-Round Residents: The park's scrubby pine flatwoods host permanent residents, including Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Northern Flickers, and Brown-headed Nuthatches, which favor the scattered pines along the sandy point accessed via the Sand Pine Trail.

Biking at Big Lagoon State Park

Biking is one of the best ways to explore Big Lagoon State Park's 704 acres at your own pace. The park's paved road system creates a scenic cycling route that winds through coastal forests, past wetlands, and along Big Lagoon's waterfront, offering frequent opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy Florida Gulf Coast scenery.

The biking route follows Big Lagoon's main park road, which is shared with vehicle traffic. The park's strictly enforced 15 mph speed limit and typically light traffic create a safe, relaxed environment for cycling. The flat, paved terrain makes this route accessible to cyclists of all ages and abilities, from young children learning to ride to experienced cyclists seeking a leisurely coastal ride.

Stop along the route to explore the observation tower boardwalk trail, rest at the East Beach Picnic Area, or simply pull over at lagoon overlooks to watch for dolphins, osprey, and wading birds in the shallow waters.

Bike Rental Note: Bring your own bike or rent from Pensacola Beach/Perdido Key shops before arriving, as the park does not offer rentals.

Safety Reminder: Wear helmets, bring plenty of water, stay alert for vehicles, and stop completely to observe wildlife safely.

Picnicking and Day Use Areas

There are multiple picnic areas spread throughout the park. The covered picnic shelters near the boat ramp are fantastic for watching boats go by.

Ranger Programs and Educational Opportunities

Big Lagoon State Park has an unbelievable amphitheater for ranger programs. They host campfire talks, beginning birding hikes, star gazing events, and so many great programs.

Check out the parks events calendar for current programs when you plan to visit.

Kids can become a junior ranger while visiting the park. Just ask for a Junior Ranger kit and work through the activities.

Big Lagoon State Park Camping

Big Lagoon State Park offers overnight camping with beautiful waterfront sites, making it an ideal base for multi-day exploration of the park's hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, and wildlife viewing.

Big Lagoon State Park campsites include:

• Concrete pads (accessible sites)
• Picnic tables at each site
• Ground grills for cooking
• Access to restrooms and showers

The Maximum RV length is 40 feet, and sites are equipped with 30/50 amp electric and water.

Why You'll Love Big Lagoon State Park

• Great hiking trails and picnic areas - 5 miles of trails from easy boardwalks to the 3.1-mile Sand Pine Loop, plus waterfront picnic pavilions with Gulf views
• Amazing bird watching - Official Great Florida Birding Trail gateway site with 23 warbler species during migration and winter waterfowl viewing from observation tower
• One of the best places to visit for outdoor recreation near Pensacola - Just 13 miles from downtown with hiking, kayaking, swimming, fishing, camping, and crabbing all in one location
• Starting point of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail - Launch your kayak where the 1,515-mile state-circling adventure begins, or just enjoy a peaceful paddle in protected waters
• Uncrowded beaches and pristine coastal wilderness - 704 acres of natural Florida shoreline without the crowds of Pensacola Beach or Gulf Islands
• Panoramic observation tower views - Climb to stunning 360-degree vistas of Big Lagoon, Perdido Key, and the Gulf of Mexico
• Family-friendly with accessible features - Beach wheelchairs available, accessible boardwalk trails, playgrounds at campground and West Beach, ranger programs for all ages
• Wildlife viewing opportunities - Spot dolphins, sea turtles, rays in the water; deer, raccoons on land; plus incredible diversity of coastal birds
• Educational ranger programs - Campfire talks, beginning birding hikes, stargazing events, and Junior Ranger program for kids
• Self-serve kayak rentals - No reservation needed-scan QR code and launch whenever you're ready to paddle
• Year-round activities - Every season offers something special, from winter waterfowl to spring migrations to summer beach days

Big Lagoon State Park Frequently Asked Question

How much does it cost to enter Big Lagoon State Park? $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 single person vehicle, $2 pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

What are Big Lagoon State Park hours? 8am until sunset daily, 365 days a year.

Can you kayak at Big Lagoon State Park? Yes, there are rental kayaks available near the launch.

Are dogs allowed at Big Lagoon State Park? Pets are allowed in designated area.

Does Big Lagoon State Park have camping? Yes

How long should I spend at Big Lagoon State Park? I would plan a couple of hours to a full day, depending on how long you want to hike and can handle the weather.

Is Big Lagoon State Park good for kids? Yes, there are playgrounds available in the campground and at the West Beach Use Area. Kids will love the observation tower.

What's the best time of year to visit Big Lagoon State Park? Every season

Can you fish at Big Lagoon State Park? Yes, Seasonally you may catch redfish, bluefish, or flounder. All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season. 

How far is Big Lagoon State Park from Pensacola? From downtown Pensacola it is approximately 13 miles to the park.

What should I bring to Big Lagoon State Park? Make sure you are prepared for the Florida Gulf Coast weather. It is incredibly easy to get sunburned while visiting the park.

Essential Items:

• Binoculars for wildlife/bird watching
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended-Florida sun is intense even in winter)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Plenty of water (no concessions in park)
• Insect repellent (mosquitoes can be heavy, especially summer)
• Camera or smartphone for photos

Are there restrooms at Big Lagoon State Park? Yes, and they have been really clean everytime we have visited.

Parks near Big Lagoon State Park

• Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park - Florida
• Perdido Key State Park - Florida
• Gulf State Park - Alabama
• Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge - Alabama
• Gulf Islands National Seashore - Johnsons Beach

Planning Your Big Lagoon State Park Visit

Address - 12301 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola

Phone - 850-492-1595

Hours - 8am until sunset daily.

Please confirm with the restaurant to ensure that the hours have not changed.

Big Lagoon State Park Accessibility and Inclusive Amenities

Beach wheelchairs are available at no cost to visitors, simply ask at the ranger station to borrow one during your visit. These specialized wheelchairs with wide, balloon-style tires allow visitors with mobility limitations to access the sandy beach areas and enjoy the Gulf Coast shoreline.

Two wheelchair-accessible boardwalk trails provide excellent opportunities for all visitors to experience Big Lagoon's natural environments:

• East Beach Picnic Area Boardwalk - Accessible boardwalk leading to scenic picnic areas with Gulf views
• Observation Tower Boardwalk - Paved/boardwalk trail accessible to the base of the observation tower, allowing wheelchair users to experience the maritime forest and coastal wetlands (note: tower stairs are not wheelchair accessible, but the boardwalk trail itself offers excellent wildlife viewing)

Accessible seating is available at both the park amphitheater (for ranger programs and evening events) and the Governor's Pavilion, ensuring all visitors can participate in educational programs and special events.

Service animals are welcome in all areas of Big Lagoon State Park, including trails, beaches, camping areas, and facilities, in accordance with Florida State Parks policy.

Dress Code/Suggestions - Casual, be prepared for the Florida Gulf Coast weather.

Pets - Pets are allowed in designated areas on a leash.

Parking  - There is parking available in multiple areas within the park.

Things to Do Near Big Lagoon State Park

Blue Dolphin Cruises - offers daily dolphin cruises, Blue Angels cruises, and more.

Craft Gourmey Bakery -  has the most amazing fresh bread, cakes, cupcakes, and epic desserts.

BagelHeads Pensacola - a great bagel shop with breakfast, deli sandwiches, and coffee drinks!

Hub Stacey's at the Point - offers casual dining, reasonable prices, and great food!

Perdido Key Breakfast Club - a hidden gem on Perdido Key that everyone needs to try! Their breakfast is a foodie paradise of delicious options.

Pensacola Hotel and Lodging

If you are visiting and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations.

Springhill Suites Pensacola - Enjoy comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, free self parking, and easy access to Pensacola.

Holiday Inn Express Pensacola - Fantastic family-friendly hotel

Lily Hall - Great boutique hotel in Downtown Pensacola.

The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.