At AHRN.com, we want to offer our readers a place to turn to when facing the challenges of a PCS. You know how it is when you get orders. You go to your Facebook friends list, find someone who is there or has been recently and get all the details! We are sharing the little things that help you to make a home at NAS Whiting Field!
What are the best neighborhoods?
Santa Rosa County is a fabulous place to live with plenty of options depending on your commute and preferences. If you are PCSing to NAS Whiting Field for Flight School, you may need to train at both Whiting Field and NAS Pensacola. Both Northeast Pensacola area and Pace, FL offer reasonable commutes to both bases. From that area, you can take I-10 to Milton’s Whiting Field NAS and go down Pine Forest Rd. to NAS Pensacola’s back gate or take I-110 to get downtown and use the front gate.
If you are staying closer to Whiting Field, Milton is a lovely small town that offers great schools and even some waterfront property!
What schools are considered the best?
Santa Rosa County is rated among the best school systems in Florida. The district includes the towns of Gulf Breeze, Navarre, Pace, and Milton, FL. Check out more specific school data at greatschools.org.
Is there anywhere traffic becomes problematic?
Afternoons around 5-6pm can bring heavy traffic, especially closer to Pensacola. Cervantes near 17th, Hwy 98 in Gulf Breeze through the National Seashore, Davis Hwy near I-10, 9 Mile Rd., Brent Ln. near I-110, Hwy 90 near Woodbine can all be traffic hot spots.
Are there any odd local installation policies?
It’s a school command so seniors are often VERY strict on uniform codes, not talking on a cell phone while walking, hands in pockets etc.
Where do I (the service member) report when I arrive?
Report to the quarterdeck of your specific school or command. If you aren’t sure where you’re headed, someone in the housing office can likely help.
Where do you like to do your grocery shopping? Where is the best produce? The best prices?
The commissary and local farmer’s markets are great options but there are also plenty of off base options, as well. If you prefer organic, there are both a Whole Foods and Fresh Market in Pensacola.
Where do you like to do your clothes/home shopping?
Pensacol and it’s suburbs have all the shopping you need. You stay close in for most things but plan a day trip to Pensacola if you want more variety!
What are your favorite local restaurants?
David’s Catfish and Grover T’s BBQ are must-try favorites in Milton. Milton Quality Bakery will become your favorite place for a quick breakfast treat on the way to the beach or a sweet something just because – you’ll just have trouble choosing!
Where do you go if you want to grab a coffee with friends and relax?
Best spot for a date night?
If you’re staying local, Blackwater Bistro is hard to beat. Check for the nights they have live music and choose the outdoor seating to enjoy the gorgeous weather! Wednesday is Military Appreciation Day and features $1 draft beer with the purchase of a meal.
Best rainy day energy buster for the kids?
Hit the beaches (Ft Walton is a great option!) on the sunny days and the kids will enjoy the rainy days in.
What do you LOVE about NAS Whiting Field?
There are so many national parks, incredibly beautiful beaches and fun “touristy” things to do on a day trip!
We Want To Know:
Have you lived at NAS Whiting Field? What would you add to these answers?
