NAS Pensacola to reopen public access to Base

R. Ken Cooper • May 3, 2023

Watch the Blue Angels Practices from the Base

Watch the Blue Angels Practices from the Base

NAS Pensacola, Fla. - (OBA) - Great news for Blue Angels fans... Starting on May 17th visitors will be once again permitted on the Base in certain areas; the Pensacola Lighthouse, Fort Barrancas, and the National Naval Aviation Museum. Visitors can watch the Blue Angels practice at the Naval Aviation Museum.


All U.S. citizens or nationals aged 18 and above must possess a government issued ID or passport to enter the Base. Foreign nationals are permitted entry but must be accompanied by a U.S. citizen, who will be subject to a background check upon arrival.


Public access times will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. via the West Gate on Blue Angel Parkway. The West Gate is approximately 20 miles from Orange Beach.


Admittance to the installation will rely on available parking at the National Naval Aviation Museum and Pensacola Lighthouse. Public access will be suspended if parking is full until more spaces become accessible.


The previously announced NAS Pensacola weekend openings will still be available.


Note: You can get a very distanced view of the Blues practices from Johnson Beach. You can get a closer view from the Walmart or Target parking lots on Blue Angel Parkway. We don't see the Blues Practices from Orange Beach.


The following restrictions will apply:

  • No weapons (firearms/knives) allowed (to include Concealed Weapon Permit holders)
  • No backpacks/coolers allowed (diaper bags or medically required bags are acceptable and 
  • subject to search)
  • No alcoholic beverages allowed
  • No drones allowed (countermeasures will be taken)
  • Persons with felony convictions are not authorized base access
  • No visitors with boats and boat trailers 
  • All vehicles and personnel are subject to security searches and background checks


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