Navarre Beach
Looking for a laid-back beach town with crystal-clear water, wide stretches of soft, white sand, and just enough to do when you feel like venturing out? Navarre Beach has a way of slowing everything down the moment you cross the bridge.
Tucked along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this quiet barrier island pairs uncrowded shoreline with emerald-green water that rivals anywhere in the state. Days tend to revolve around sunshine, long beach afternoons, and sunset views over the Gulf, while nearby dining, fishing, attractions, and restaurants add plenty of options when you’re ready for a change of pace. Once you see this piece of paradise for yourself, you may never vacation anywhere else.
Where is Navarre Beach?
Located between the beaches of Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach, Navarre Beach is a quiet 12-mile stretch comprised of endless beauty. Driving here is a breeze; simply hop on I-10 to Highway 87 and drive straight to the beach. Flying in? Pensacola International Airport offers direct flights from 20 cities served by 7 airlines. The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) is another option, both about 45 minutes away.
Things to do in Navarre Beach
While Navarre Beach is best known for its quiet shoreline and easygoing vibe, there’s plenty to fill your days beyond the sand. From outdoor adventures on the water to fun, family-friendly activities, you can keep the schedule as full or as flexible as you like!
Water Activities in Navarre Beach
Water activities are a big part of the Navarre Beach experience, and it’s really easy to find a way to get out on the water. A popular starting point is Navarre Family Watersports, located on the Santa Rosa Sound at the foot of the Navarre bridge. They rent pontoon boats, waverunners, paddleboards, and kayaks so you can spend the day cruising, exploring the shoreline, or simply anchoring at a quiet sandbar. Fishing is another favorite pastime, and trips with Navarre Beach Inshore Charters give visitors a chance to reel in flounder, mackerel, and other Gulf coast species. Prefer snorkeling? The Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary features three nearshore artificial reef sites located just offshore, each with multiple reef structures that create habitat for fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
Family-Friendly Activities in Navarre Beach
Families will find plenty of opportunities to keep the kids engaged around Navarre Beach. A trip to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center (NBSTCC) is a favorite with children and adults alike. Interactive exhibits and educational programs highlight sea turtles and other marine life that call this stretch of the Gulf home.
Just down the beach, the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier offers another fun outing. As the longest fishing pier in the Gulf, you’ll find plenty of space to watch anglers reeling in their catch, watch dolphins swimming, and catch incredible sunsets.
At the Gulf Breeze Zoo, kids can see giraffes, rhinos, and dozens of other animals, with opportunities to feed some of the residents and ride the safari train through the park. Navarre Park and the Navarre Beach Marine Park are other areas offering tremendous beauty and solitude.
Plus, the bordering communities of Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach offer additional attractions, museums, and family adventures that are easy to add to your Navarre Beach Itinerary!
Where to Eat in Navarre Beach
For a quiet beach town, Navarre Beach offers a surprisingly diverse selection of places to eat. Casual seafood spots, waterfront restaurants, and cozy cafes give visitors plenty of options when it’s time to take a break from the beach. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Juana's Pagodas and Sailors’ Grill: A chill waterfront hangout with casual eats for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the deck. (Also a great place to watch sand volleyball)!
- The Slippery Mermaid Sushi Bar: A local favorite known for inventive sushi rolls and fresh sashimi served in a charming cottage overlooking the Sound.
- Dewey Destin’s Navarre: This laid-back waterfront eatery serves fresh seafood and drinks from a full bar, with casual counter service and plenty of seating.
- Shark Bite: Swing by this popular waterfront food truck serving breakfast and lunch, a great place to stop for a quick bite before or after the beach.
- Cactus Flower Cafe: A California-style Mexican eatery with food made from scratch daily. The margaritas and Sangria are particularly delicious.
- Samurai Japanese Steakhouse: The kids will love the hibachi experience, where skilled chefs prepare the meal right at your table, making it a memorable night out.
- Buh’s BBQ: Combining Texas and Tennessee barbecue, with meat smoked low and slow, resulting in mouthwatering pork, chicken, and beef.
Navarre Beach Events
For a laid-back beach town, Navarre Beach keeps the calendar lively with seasonal celebrations that bring locals and visitors together year-round. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Mardi Gras Parade: The Krewe of Jesters always hosts an exciting parade each year that’s bound to be a hit with the kids.
- Shamrock Stroll 5K Fun Run & Pet Parade: A family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day celebration that includes a fun run or stroll, a pet parade, a costume contest, and more!
- Navarre Beach Pier Plunge: This annual event sees participants jump into the chilly Gulf waters on New Year’s Day, followed by music, food, and a beachside celebration.
- Spring Jam: Join in the fun at this beachside country music concert at Juanas Pagodas. Bring a towel to sit on (no beach chairs permitted).
- Run for the Reef: This scenic beachside race benefits the reefs of the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary.
- Blue Angels Airshow: Every July and November, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels put on an incredible performance, soaring into the skies performing dramatic aerial maneuvers.
Navarre Beach Weather
Navarre Beach enjoys warm, sunny weather most of the year. Summer is the most popular season, with average highs in the upper 80s and nighttime lows in the mid-70s, ideal for long beach days and evenings by the water. Many visitors love the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the temperatures are comfortably warm, the Gulf waters are still inviting, and the beaches are a little quieter. Winters are mild, with typical highs in the mid-60s and lows in the upper 40s. No matter when you visit, the sugar-white sand and emerald water are always close by, making it easy to spend time outdoors year-round! Book your Navarre Beach vacation today.
