Pensacola

Summers and beaches! There's a connection between the two that transcends geography, race and culture. Shaved ice, ice cream cones, cool beachwear and colorful sun umbrellas spell summer! On a recent visit to Pensacola, Florida, all of these were in abundance! 

We stopped at a beach a little further away from the crowd, and found this dream location that seemed to have everything going for it that day. Blue skies, white sands, green grasses, and the sea reflecting various hues of blue and aquamarine! Signs all along talked about a beach restoration project. These sand dunes need to be protected, and I hope the authorities are meeting with success, with help from the public.

A little boardwalk leading to the beach.

To relax on a beach chair with the sound of the waves gently coming ashore, and the wind playing a song to that beat, is nothing short of perfect!

A motley mix of shells on the beach. There's no telling how far some may have traveled to get stranded on the sands here. Most may be from the area and then there may be a lone one among them that got carried by the currents that brought it far away from home. 

Once we were done with the beach, I followed signs that headed to the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum. Lighthouses are very dear to me and I try to visit as many as I can. Something about them spells hope, beacons to a promise of a safe place ahead.

The lighthouse was established in 1859, and you can read more about it here. There are 177 steps that climb to the top of the tower and it offers spectacular views of the area. There is also a nice museum and a gift shop.

This little boat in the adjacent yard had no sign, but it looked interesting. I am not sure if it is permanent feature or was just resting there temporarily.

Part of a dolphin water tank at Pensacola. The marine biologist in me does seek out things that remind me of my gig as one. Have a good summer!