Movie Tours in Pensacola

Pensacola, perched on the sparkling shores of Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers more than sugar-white beaches and naval history. Over the years, this coastal city has quietly become a favorite for filmmakers who crave that mix of sun-drenched scenery, southern charm, and old-world architecture. And while it may not be a household name in cinema circles just yet, Pensacola's movie moments are gaining attention.

Whether you’re into beachside romance, military dramas, or atmospheric thrillers, Pensacola offers filming locations and cinematic vibes worth exploring. Some tours take you past actual movie sets, while others offer local stories of on-location filming and celebrity visits. It’s a different way to experience the city - through the camera’s lens.

Notable Films & Projects Shot in or Near Pensacola:

• Jaws 2 (1978) – Many scenes were filmed on nearby Navarre Beach, which doubles as the fictional Amity Island.
• USS Oriskany ("The Great Carrier Reef") – Featured in several documentaries and underwater sequences.
• Military-based films & training footage – The area’s naval aviation presence attracts both feature films and TV crews.

Experience the Movie Side of Pensacola:

While Pensacola’s film tourism is still growing, its laid-back vibe makes self-guided exploration easy and rewarding. Take a walk through downtown’s historic streets that look like ready-made film sets, visit the beach locations where scenes were captured, or head out on the water to experience where underwater footage was filmed.

Some local guides offer niche walking or boat tours, especially themed around military history, which often overlaps with film content. Keep an eye on local listings - you might just stumble into a documentary shoot or a location scout tour in progress.

Highlights Include:

• Downtown Pensacola – Cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and perfect backdrops for period dramas.
• Navarre Beach – The iconic spot used in Jaws 2.
• Pensacola Lighthouse – Featured in TV specials and often used for moody coastal shots.
• National Naval Aviation Museum – While not a film set, it’s a magnet for aviation-related shoots.

When to Visit:

Spring and fall are the sweet spots, offering comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. That said, Florida’s Gulf Coast is filmable (and visitable) year-round.

Did You Know?

The USS Oriskany - intentionally sunk off the coast - became the largest artificial reef in the world and has since featured in multiple marine and action documentaries. Dive tours are available for those wanting a true immersive experience - literally.

Pensacola’s cinematic story is still unfolding. For travelers who love discovering the “before it was famous” places, this coastal gem offers film-worthy views, low-key charm, and authentic Southern storytelling - on and off the screen.