people sitting on plane to pensacola

Getting Here: Non-Stop Flights to Destin, Panama City Beach, and Pensacola

May 5, 2024

Once quiet coastal towns, the beautiful communities of Destin, Panama City Beach, and Pensacola have become favorite vacation destinations for travelers from near and far. If you, like them, are looking for quick and easy access to our sugar white beaches, you’re in luck! With dozens of airlines offering direct flights from major cities across the country, it’s easier than ever to catch a flight. Before you know it, you’ll be kicking off your shoes, sinking your toes in the sand, and basking in that Florida sunshine.

Here’s everything you need to know about non-stop flights to Northwest Florida, how to get around once you land, and the quickest path to the beach!

Airports Near Your Northwest Florida Beach Getaway

Short drives from nearby states mean spontaneous beach getaways are always within reach. With three major airports, traveling by air is just as easy!

Destin-Fort Walton Beach (VPS)

Located less than 10 miles from Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach, 15 miles from Destin, and 30 miles from Dune Allen Beach, the easternmost town on 30A, the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is one of the most convenient options for reaching these coastal towns (unless you’re flying private into the Destin Executive Airport.) 

Airlines operating out of VPS include Southwest, Delta, American, Sun Country, and Avelo, offering nonstop connections from various cities, including Boston, Las Vegas, Memphis, Charlotte, Nashville, Atlanta, and Washington, DC. Allegiant offers over 30 nonstop flights into VPS, connecting travelers from cities like Asheville, Des Moines, Columbus, Pittsburgh, and beyond!

Best Route to the Beach from Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport

If your first stop is the beach, you won’t have to wait long! Okaloosa Island is only 20 minutes away—just travel south on FL-85 S to US-98 E to Santa Rosa Boulevard on Okaloosa Island. Destin and 30A beaches are just a bit further down the road if you’re up for exploring!

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)

The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is another option if you’re heading to Panama City Beach or 30A. Located just 20 minutes north of Panama City Beach, it provides quick access to the area’s white-sand beaches and the scenic coastal communities along 30A.

ECP is serviced by four major carriers, including American, Southwest, United, and Delta. These airlines offer nonstop flights year-round from various cities, including Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Nashville, with seasonal nonstop service from cities like St. Louis, Denver, Baltimore, and more.

Best Route to the Beach from Northwest Florida Beaches Airport

It’s pretty much a straight shot to the beach from the tarmac, putting you on the sand in less than 30 minutes. Drive south on State Road 388 to FL 79 S, then let the turquoise waters be your guide. Hang out in Panama City Beach, or head west and explore over a dozen beach towns along 30A, each offering a little slice of coastal paradise.

Pensacola International Airport (PNS)

If you plan to stay in Pensacola or Navarre Beach, the Pensacola International Airport offers a convenient starting point just minutes from the coast. With service from nine major carriers, including Delta, Southwest, American, and United, it’s easy to catch a non-stop flight from cities like Atlanta, Detroit, New York, and Miami. Other carriers, including Frontier, Silver Airways, Breeze, Contour, and Spirit, offer additional options to get you here with ease from cities like Denver, Tampa, and Nashville. Non-seasonal service may be limited depending on the airline, but rest assured, there are plenty of choices year-round.

Best Route to the Beach from Pensacola International Airport

It’s a quick 20-minute drive south from the airport to Pensacola Beach via I-110 and US 98. If you’re headed to Navarre Beach, enjoy a relaxing scenic drive east along the coast, about miles up the road. Both locations boast pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, offering the perfect environment for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing by the shore.

Getting Around Northwest Florida

Car rentals and rideshares like Uber and Lyft are readily available at each airport, so you can hit the road as soon as you land. Bikes are a fun and popular way to explore once you arrive at your destination, with rental shops in nearly every beach town and scenic trails leading to the area’s most scenic locations. In places like Pensacola Beach and 30A, golf carts are another great option to zip around town and an easy way to transport everyone (and your gear) to the beach!

Where to Get Last Minute Beach Essentials

It’s easy to forget a few essentials when you’re excited about a beach trip, but no need to worry.. You’ll find plenty of convenience stores, groceries, and beach shops to grab sunscreen, hats, coolers, snacks, and anything else you might need for a perfect day on the sand!

Best Vacation Rentals in Northwest Florida

No need to worry about accommodations, either. At Scenic Stays, you’ll find beautiful vacation rentals throughout Northwest Florida, from Navarre to Panama City Beach. Whether you dream of a charming cottage steps from the Gulf, a high-rise condo with panoramic views, or a luxurious beachfront home, the options are endless. Many of our properties also offer incredible amenities, including private pools, EV charging stations, golf carts, and bikes, making your stay that much more enjoyable. No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll enjoy the comfort, quality, and 5-star service that make every Scenic Stays getaway unforgettable!

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