You still need to book a tour if you do not have a DOD ID, but the tour is worth it. My only complaint is that it is a little short if you want to see everything. We were the first tour on a Saturday morning, and it was really great. There were 13 members present on our tour, so the bus was mostly full. The driver was super friendly and knowledgeable about the lighthouse and the general area. The lighthouse keeper was also friendly and funny. The stairs were a beast- but worth the climb for sure. The views were incredible - if you are in the area - definitely check it out.

Such a fun thing to make yourself get out of the house. The climb was a little hot and tiring but if you bring water and wear proper shoes the climb isn't terrible. When we went it was very windy so it was a bit scary at the top but it was really fun.

Absolutely a wonderful time. I visisted from out of town and the lighthouse is a very unique experience for this are of Florida. I happened to come on a special day where entry was free, but honestly the listed prices of admission are certainly worth it. The climb to the top was doable but presented a physical challenge for sure. The views from several windows along the way. And especially the top, are totally worth it. The museum portion was really great and the gift shop has something for everyone. Highly recommend!

Took a mini escape vacation to NAS pensacola for 1 night and 2 days. After walking through the museum we went to the lighthouse. I am not sure the cost of admission as my husband is active duty Coast Guard so it was free for us. However, I do know all other branches and civilians have an admission fee. The museum is really cool and filled with information on the history of the light houses and the Coast Guard. Then comes the lighthouse. Wow this was a beautiful view. Be prepared to climbe 177 steps to the top (if you are out of shape like me it is mo small feat, but so worth it). We took our 9yr old and learned his fear of heights. Even he was in awe at the top and so glad he went all the way up. If the angels are flying this would be the perfect view to watch everything from take off to landing. I highly recommend making the visit. The grounds are beautiful and history rich. Be sure to wear closed toe and back shoes! They said my sons crocs were fine as long as they were in sports mode. All in all 10/10 experience.

Our Pensacola Lighthouse adventure was nothing short of awe-inspiring! Climbing 177 steps to the top revealed a panoramic view of the Gulf Coast that was well worth the $6.50 fee. The grounds were immaculate, and the historic charm of the lighthouse was preserved flawlessly. We had the pleasure of meeting Diane, a dedicated volunteer from the lighthouse society, who generously shared her wealth of knowledge about the area. The recently replaced LED bulb, casting its beam up to 8 miles, is a modern marvel and made for a fascinating detail. From the top, Diane pointed out Fort Pickens on a nearby island, a National Monument managed by the National Parks Service. The proximity to our campground made the visit even more convenient. The Light keepers house, adorned with interesting displays, and the well-curated gift shop added layers to the historical experience. Diane's insights didn't end with the lighthouse; she recommended some fantastic local eateries and must-visit spots, including the Flora-Bama for a taste of fresh seafood. Our next stop is the National Naval Aviation Museum, and we're excited to share the military history we'll uncover, thanks to insights from a seasoned veteran volunteer. Stay tuned for more discoveries from our Gulf Coast journey! #straycompasslife #straycompasstravel

Beautiful lighthouse to climb! Beautifully restored! Thanks for the opportunity to let us experience this history of Florida!

There are 166 steps up to one of the BEST views in Pensacola! Not for the weak of heart or legs, and you must be at least 44" tall. The museum is equally engaging, with facts and artifacts that leave you amazed. You could spend 2+ hours in exploration or zip up to the top of the lighthouse and back again, as we did. The entrance station is a nifty gift shop as well.

It was a great experience. The stairs are definitely different than the other lighthouses I've visited that they are winding and only have hand rails on the inside of the stairs. There's no place to stop on the way up or down, and because there's no hand rails on the outside, it's kind of tricky when there's people coming up and down at the same time. We made it all the way up and down with no problem.

Very cool. Must be in relatively good shape to climb the 177 steps to the top. The steps are 9", not 6" that are modern steps. But sights from top are breath taking.

I really enjoyed my visit to the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum during my hike today! The staff volunteers are amazing and very informative about the Lighthouse history. I highly recommend taking a peek inside the Keepers Quarters next door to the Lighthouse. Enjoy your visit!

Beautiful place to see!! We toured with Brian who is full of information about everything you could imagine to learn about the lighthouse. The view is beautiful and everything is really well restored. Definitely something to see in the Pensacola area- you do have to book a private tour with the lighthouse though if you do not have a military ID. Very easy to do this by just contacting the lighthouse.

What a view from the top! Beautiful beaches, and an aerial view of the Naval Aviation Museum and base. It was hot and sweaty on the way up, and the 177 step spiral staircase is narrow... Have to slide over and hang on as those coming back down pass by. Totally worth the effort, though!

I didn't realize this lighthouse was here until I spotted it visiting the Naval Aviation Museum. What a wonderful surprise! The grounds are beautifully kept, the volunteers were all very professional, friendly, and proud of their lighthouse. Getting to scale the 177 wrought iron steps to view a restored first order fresnel lens in operation was priceless, nevermind the breathtaking views. What an amazing experience!

We watched the Blue Angels practice from the Light House. Tickets are $30 during practice. $40 during a show. $9.50 and under normal day/time. Opens at 9 am. Closes sharply at 4 pm.

We truly enjoyed this location! Excellent staff, giftshop and the lighthouse has incredible views. There's a awesome beach on the property as well!

Very nice and breath taking view of Gulf of Mexico from top of the lighthouse. Remember there are 2 entry points of the lighthouse and when following the route given by Google maps, I took the navy entry point by mistake instead of the one used by civilians and had to took a detour.

You can only get here if you are in the military or on a tour bus! I took the took bus, and it was a great experience! Book ahead of time! Super friendly driver! Worth the visit! Highly recommend! Walk down to the beach area too! Beautiful views and it’s a quiet walk! On the lighthouse, it is 177 steps but there is several areas to stop and take a break, only one hand rail on one side! Still worth it! The view at the top is amazing!

It is a nice historical and functional lighthouse, there is also the museum which has a lot of information about the history of the site and the armed forces. The staff are very friendly and are happy to answer any questions. There is also a beach right across the, perfect to relax after visiting the lighthouse.

We climbed all the way to the top and then visited the museum and then the gift shop. Staff was very friendly. The climb was very easy if you’re in shape but a little intimidating at first because of the angle of the staircase. We also didn’t do proper research and didn’t know that you have to climb barefoot if you are wearing flip flops. But even barefoot it was still a very easy climb. It was a hot but breezy day (early September, Labor Day weekend) so the air at the top felt amazing. I wouldn’t go on a day that it is raining. The museum is fascinating as well, but keep in mind the property is restored from the 1800s and door frames and spaces were a lot tighter (something to keep in mind if your height starts with a 6). Definitely something that is fun for people of all ages, and there are several places that have interactive displays such as demonstrating how pulleys work and tying various knots. A must see if you’re visiting NAS Pensacola!

Wear shoes with a back, or you'll be going up and down barefoot! Only enter at West gate. Beautiful view and great pics. 177 steps is a good little hike!

Great place for the family or to go it alone and visit. Learn about the lighthouse and the men and women that served there. Climb up the 177 steps to the top to see the amazing view all around. Definitely worth it!

Nice little museum at the base of the lighthouse which was very informative. The climb to the top of the lighthouse was warm and humid (late July) but well worth it if you are willing and able! You will be asked to take your shoes off for the climb up and down if they don't have a closed backs (crocs with a strap were fine).

Nice views . Fresh cool breeze . Feels awesome . Climbing and getting down stairs was fun . Looking down is scary but had fun . Should visit once . Good for family time .

You must go through the navy base security to get here, so plan for a wait. To purchase tickets you have to go into the gift shop which is small and can get crowded. The stairs are see through so if you don't like heights then this may induce a bone chilling climb that can turn your legs to jello. You can try to cling to the wall but people coming down have no mercy and expect you to pass them on the inside where the steps narrow. They say the tower is haunted, however the stairs are the real fear inducer. The volunteers work really hard to keep the whole place nice. It's $10 per person and the museum is tiny but informative. Even though I only made it up 5 steps I would go again.

The 177 climb was so work it because the view is breathtaking.The museum is a great place to go after to get cool air. The staff are super friendly and helpful. They give you a safety brief before you go up! The gift shop is also really cool. Around they also have little helpers for kids to get more engaged. Entry for military was $6 per person and there was barely any wait. You can also see the Naval Museum from the top!!

Awesome experience. 177 steps so not for the faint of heart(literally). Awesome view. Could see the Blue Angels and they looked like toy planes.

Absolutely beautiful place to take a trip to! The lighthouse grounds has lots of fun and interesting things to see and learn about. The actual lighthouse stairs are a good exercise (roughly 200 stairs), but once you reach the top you will have wonderful views of the bay and you might even be able to see the Blue Angels practice if you go early enough.

Beautiful views! Little museum was really cool and didn't take much time to go through. The steps were easy enough that my kids could even do it even though they did take a few breaks at the windows. The steps were wet we went due to some spray off the water but the staff made sure everyone was aware before hand.

The views were stunning once you climbed 177 stairs. Lol.

We love this historic lighthouse. It's a real treasure. Bring the whole family. Ticket are around $15 for 12 and up. Be prepared to walk up 180 steps to the top. What a view!

Accessible on the Navy Base once you clear security. If you are a fan of Lighthouses this is worth your time. Plenty of free parking including for Handicap accessible Vehicles. There is an admission charge but it was well worth it. Self guided tour with lots to see. Some nice historical items. And then there's the Lighthouse itself. 177 steps will get you to the top and it's well worth it, not only to see the light which is on 24-7 but the views are super. There is also a nice gift shop and you can purchase a Brick, which we did, or one of the 177 Steps. In the area give it a visit and say hello to Alexandria in the gift shop, Great Gal *Also the Navy Air Museum and Fort are near the Lighthouse.

Make reservations. This is a naval base. We were picked up outside the base by a short bus. Janet gave us insight into the lighthouse in the tour. We were able to climb the steps to the top of the lighthouse - 177 steps. Gift shop on the premises. Many photo opportunities. I loved the trees surrounding the grounds. It was a 2 hour experience. Restrooms on the grounds. Don't forget to sign the guest book!

The view for the light house is amazing. I think the fee for it wasn’t worth it. I’ve been in different places before and never had to pay for going in. I would not say the museum was to interesting. And I would assume they will give some kind of discount for military family members but they don’t.

We've tried to make this happy for years. Finally got the chance and we enjoyed it greatly. Was not very expensive. Shuttle service from off base. Unfortunately, the only site we could visit on base was the lighthouse, but still worth the time if you can get a reservation.

We visited on a rainy-windy December day. The guide at the top of the lighthouse was very knowledgeable. We arrived as the light just came on. Beautiful prism. Beautiful view from the top. 177 steps to the top with sturdy handrail. The museum was decorated for Christmas throughout which was fun.