Welcome to Navarre Beach! ☀️
Navarre Beach is one of those places that flies just under the radar — and that's part of its appeal. Set along a quieter stretch of Florida's Emerald Coast, it's all about wide-open beaches, clear Gulf waters, and a slower pace that invites you to actually catch your breath.
Mornings might start with a walk down the pier or a quiet paddle, and evenings tend to end with sand between your toes and a no-rush dinner somewhere local.
There's no big scene here, and that's exactly the point. You come to Navarre to unplug, stretch out on the sand, and enjoy the simple stuff — fresh seafood, coastal trails, and a stretch of beach that feels like it's yours.
At Navarre Beach Property, we consider ourselves local experts. Our destination blog is filled with helpful posts on beach day tips, where to find the best craft beer and even a quick history of Navarre Beach.
This time we're bringing you an all-in-one Insider's Guide to Navarre Beach.
Let's dive right in!
Did you Know?
- Navarre Beach has earned the nickname "Florida's Most Relaxing Place" as well as "Florida's Best Kept Secret" thanks to its tranquil, uncrowded beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
- The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier stretches 1,545 feet into the waters of the Gulf, making it the longest fishing pier in the state and the 15th longest public pier in the U.S.
- Navarre Beach was a primary filming location for the 1978 movie Jaws 2. The production brought significant economic activity to the area, with residents participating as extras and crew members.
- Navarre Beach serves as a crucial nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, protected under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. From May to October, conservationists and volunteers patrol the beaches at night to locate and safeguard new turtle nests, ensuring hatchlings safely reach the Gulf waters.
Before You Head Out
Navarre Beach is a quiet little barrier island—great for relaxing, but there aren't a ton of restaurants or bars around. For more options, you can hop over the bridge to Navarre. It's only about a 5-minute drive, and that's where you'll find most of the shops, grocery stores, and places to eat or grab a drink.
In this guide, we included spots in Navarre and nearby cities so you have more options and can make the most of your visit.
Natural Attractions & Outdoor Activities
Navarre Beach Pier
Local's Favorite
Want a different view of Navarre Beach? Take a walk along the longest pier in Florida. Navarre Beach Pier stretches 1,545 feet over the water and stands 30 feet high, making it a breezy, scenic spot for a family outing.
At the far end, where the pier widens into a big octagon, you'll find most of the fishing action. You can rent a rod for about $7 if you want to join in. Anglers gather there hoping to reel in something big, while the rest of us soak in the sweeping views — keep an eye out for sea turtles and fish leaping from the surf.
Pro tip: If you stick around until evening, you'll catch one of those glowing Florida sunsets that makes the whole pier feel like magic.
Live Oaks Naval Campground
Off-the-beaten Path
Head to Live Oaks Naval Campground by the bay for a peaceful spot that blends nature, family fun, and a little history. Tucked inside the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the area has calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming, fishing, or even snorkeling.
There are picnic pavilions you can reserve, complete with grills, restrooms, and a cozy campfire circle.
Don't miss the scenic trails either. With over seven miles to explore, you'll wander through lush greenery, spot local wildlife, and walk among ancient live oaks that have stood for generations.
Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary
Guest's Top Choice
Just off the shore at Navarre Beach Marine Park, the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary is home to three artificial reef sites — a go-to spot if you're a snorkeling or diving enthusiast.
The clear waters and easy access make it a great place to spot colorful fish, rays, and even sea turtles up close. You can go solo or join a guided tour for a more tailored experience.
Not into diving? You can still paddle around on a kayak or paddleboard and watch the marine life glide beneath you. This is also a great alternative for those traveling with young kids in tow.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Must-visit
The Gulf Islands National Seashore is a protected stretch of coastal beauty that spans parts of Florida and Mississippi, with serene beaches, nature trails, historic sites, and calm, shallow waters. The Florida section near Navarre Beach offers a more peaceful, undeveloped setting.
Perfect for families, solo travelers, and couples seeking seclusion, there are miles of untouched white sand beaches and minimal crowds for a truly peaceful experience.
Dolphin Tours
Guest's Top Choice
If you're looking for a fun outing the whole family will remember, dolphin tours in Navarre Beach are a great pick. These guided boat rides take you through the beautiful Gulf waters, where you can catch dolphins leaping and playing right in their natural environment.
Want to make it even more special? Book a sunset cruise and let dolphins and a glowing sky wrap up your day beautifully.
Top picks in town:
Golfing
If you're a golfer, The Club at Hidden Creek is the top spot. This public course has options for players of all ages and skill levels. The beautifully maintained gardens, surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees, make it a serene getaway worth visiting, even if you're not swinging a club.
Historical, Cultural & Educational Attractions
Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center
If you're into marine life or bringing along curious kids, the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center is well worth a visit. This small but inspiring spot is all about protecting sea turtles and educating the public in fun, hands-on ways.
You'll find interactive exhibits, ocean-themed activities, and a chance to meet Sweet Pea — the center's beloved green sea turtle and resident ambassador. Kids especially love the scavenger hunts and shark tooth treasure digs, while adults can learn more about local conservation efforts. It's a fun, meaningful stop that adds heart to your beach day.
Navarre Beach Marine Science Station
The Navarre Beach Marine Science Station is a fun and educational stop for anyone curious about the coastal environment.
It offers hands-on experiences where kids and adults can explore marine life up close — from sea turtles to native fish and other fascinating creatures.
They also offer guided tours, beach walks, and engaging programs that are great ways to connect with the natural world.
Fort Pickens
A day trip packed with history, nature, and coastal scenery, Fort Pickens is a fantastic place everyone can enjoy. Located about an hour's drive west along the Gulf Islands National Seashore, this 19th-century military fort offers a unique glimpse into the past amid beautiful surroundings.
Kids are usually fascinated by the fort's brick corridors, tunnels, and ramparts. And if you want to extend the visit, there's a beautiful beach right next to the fort — pristine white sand and clear waters perfect for a relaxing beach day.
Shopping & Entertainment
The Boardwalk Shop
The Boardwalk Shop is a fun, no-frills spot just steps from the sand where you can grab beach gear, rent water toys, or pick up some coastal souvenirs. From flip-flops and sunscreen to quirky gifts and local memorabilia, the shop has a bit of everything for beachgoers.
Pro tip: Cool off with a refreshing shaved ice treat from their Tropical Sno stand.
Saltwater Cottage
Saltwater Cottage is a local favorite in Navarre — part cozy boutique, part community gem. Tucked inside the town's oldest standing cottage from the 1940s, the place is packed with charm.
Inside, you'll find all sorts of charming treasures — think handmade jewelry, candles, and beachy home accents crafted by local artisans. There's also a tasty little selection of gourmet goodies like jams and jellies, plus coastal-inspired art and décor that perfectly capture the Navarre vibe.
Island Style
If you're in the mood for some relaxed beach-town shopping, Island Style is a great place to swing by.
It's one of the largest locally owned shops in town, with a fun mix of beachwear, gifts, and coastal décor. The vibe is casual and welcoming, and it's the kind of spot where you can lose track of time browsing for souvenirs or finding something breezy to wear for the rest of your trip.
From brands like Salt Life and Life is Good to beach accessories, flip-flops, and even home accents, they've got a little bit of everything.
Navarre Family Watersports Water Park
If you're looking for maximum fun on the water, this amazing attraction should be at the top of your bucket list.
Navarre Family Watersports Water Park's standout feature is the Wibit Waterpark — a floating obstacle course with slides, climbing walls, and balance challenges, all set on the calm waters of Santa Rosa Sound. From kids to adults, everyone can join the fun.
Beyond the waterpark, the complex offers a variety of other activities like pontoon boat rentals, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the area at your own pace.
Pro tip: For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's a ropes course and zip line with 48 interactive challenges.
Gulf Breeze Zoo
Just a quick 15-minute drive from Navarre Beach, the Gulf Breeze Zoo stretches over 50 acres and is home to more than 900 animals from around the world — from giraffes and rhinos to gorillas and hippos. It's a lively, family-friendly spot where there's something new to see around every corner.
Highlights include the safari train ride, an elevated boardwalk with sweeping views of the habitats, and fun extras like gem mining for the kids.
Want to get a little closer? You can feed some of the animals and even join interactive sessions, all safely guided by the zookeepers. When it's time to refuel, the on-site café has you covered with crowd-pleasers like pizza, burgers, tenders, and pretzels.
Food & Dining
Navarre Seafood Market
No trip to the Emerald Coast feels complete without tasting the local seafood.
For the real deal, make your way to Navarre Seafood Market. This long-standing, fisherman-run spot has been serving up ultra-fresh, locally caught seafood for over ten years. From oysters and clams to red snapper, shrimp, grouper, salmon, and Dungeness crab, the variety is impressive.
Chatting with the folks behind the counter also makes it a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the region's seafood culture.
Alphy's Family Restaurant
Breakfast
A true Navarre staple, Alphy's is the place to fuel up before a day at the beach. From classic Southern breakfasts to comfort lunch favorites, the menu has something for everyone — including a surprisingly solid salad bar for vegetarians and vegans.
Cinnamon bun pancakes and crispy catfish make regular appearances, and the friendly, family-run vibe keeps people coming back.
Scooter's Fish House
Lunch & Dinner
For a no-fuss Southern seafood feast, Scooter's is the real deal. This local gem dishes up hearty portions of fried fish, shrimp, and oysters in a relaxed, come-as-you-are setting. The go-to? The Original Scooter's Platter — a crispy, golden trio of Southern classics.
Sides like BBQ beans, coleslaw, and hush puppies seal the deal, and you'll want to save room for their famous Key Lime Pie. It's tart, sweet, and the perfect way to end your meal.
The Slippery Mermaid Sushi Bar
Lunnch & Dinner
Looking for something a little different? The Slippery Mermaid rolls out creative sushi in a fun, easygoing setting. You'll find inventive combinations topped with spicy sauces, tropical fruit, and local flair — it's sushi with personality.
The outdoor seating adds to the chill atmosphere, and with lots of vegetarian options (plus flavorful bowls for non-sushi fans), everyone in your group will find something to love.
Cactus Flower Cafe
Lunnch & Dinner
Cactus Flower Café serves up fresh, Baja-style Mexican eats in a cheerful, colorful space. Expect big flavors and generous portions. Their fish tacos and house-made guac are absolute must-tries.
Make sure to pair your food order with one of their wine margaritas, a refreshing and quirky beverage with bold flavors.
Bella Luna Italian Bistro
Dinner
Intimate and inviting, Bella Luna brings a slice of Italy to Navarre. This tiny bistro serves wood-fired pizzas, rich pastas, and all the comforting classics, perfect for a cozy dinner out.
With soft lighting and just a handful of tables, it's got serious date-night charm. And yes, the tiramisu lives up to the hype.
East Bay Crab House
Dinner
Craving something with a Cajun kick? East Bay Crab House brings bold flavor and Southern charm to the table. Their bacon-wrapped Cajun Angels are a favorite, but dishes like stuffed flounder and snow crab legs make this spot a seafood lover's dream.
With a warm, rustic vibe and a big menu perfect for groups, it's a great pick for families or friends looking to dig into hearty platters and laid-back vibes.
TC's Front Porch
Casual, coastal, and all about good times, TC's is a breezy spot for laid-back meals. Grab a table on the open patio, enjoy the sea breeze, and dig into seafood, burgers, and hearty plates.
Vegetarian-friendly and super welcoming, TC's is perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family — with a side of salty air and beach-town charm.
Bars & Nightlife
Windjammers on the Pier
By day, it's a casual seafood spot with Gulf views, but by night, Windjammers on the Pier shifts into a laid-back hangout perfect for kicking back after the sun sets. Set right on the iconic Navarre Beach Pier, it offers a breezy, social vibe with drinks flowing, ocean breezes, and front-row seats to the sunset.
Pair a cold beer or cocktail with crowd favorites like the Jammers Shrimp or a perfectly grilled Grouper Fillet. With live music on select nights and a relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere, it's a solid choice for an easygoing night out by the water.
Juana's Pagodas
Juana's Pagodas is where Navarre Beach comes alive after dark. With its quirky pagoda-style huts, open-air bars, and festive beachfront setup, it's the go-to for nightlife with a coastal twist. Expect DJs, dancing, and tropical cocktails served under string lights and swaying palms.
Sip on something fruity while snacking on smoky tuna dip or ceviche, or grab a table with friends and split one of their seafood platters. It's part tiki bar, part beach party, and all about that carefree, vacation-night energy that keeps people coming back long after the sun goes down.
Andy D's
Andy D's is one of those spots that just feels like summer. Right on the beach, it's always buzzing with live music and a fun, easygoing crowd. You'll hear everything from acoustic sets to full bands, day or night — perfect for anyone who loves good tunes with a side of sea breeze.
The bar's fully stocked with all your favorites, and the staff are as laid-back and friendly as they come. Whether you're up for a little dancing or just want to kick back with a drink and soak in the vibe, Andy D's is a great place to spend the evening.
The Grey Taproom
If you're in the mood for something more low-key, The Grey Taproom is a great choice. It's a cozy little spot with a great lineup of craft beers and wines, perfect for kicking back without all the noise.
The vibe's chill, the drinks are top-notch, and they often have live acoustic music that adds just the right touch of local charm. It's a great place to wind down, catch up with friends, or just enjoy a relaxed night out.
Practical Info
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Sunny skies, warm temps, and fewer crowds make spring a sweet spot for visiting Navarre Beach. Great for beach days, dolphin tours, and exploring the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
- Summer (June – August): It's peak season for a reason — perfect beach weather, long days, and plenty of action. Just expect more people and higher prices.
- Fall (September – November): Still-warm water, thinner crowds, and lower rental rates make this one of the most underrated times to hit Navarre Beach. Great time for fishing trips and sunset cruises.
- Winter (December – February): Quiet, peaceful, and mild. While it's not sunbathing season, it's ideal for nature walks, shelling, and cozy waterfront dining without the hustle.
Weather & What to Pack
- Spring/Fall: Bring light layers, swimsuits, flip-flops, and comfy beachwear. It can get breezy, especially near the pier.
- Summer: High-SPF sunscreen is a must, along with hats, breathable clothes, and bug spray for evenings.
- Winter: Pack light sweaters or jackets for cool mornings and evenings. Great time for strolls, so bring good walking shoes.
- Year-Round: Always throw in reef-safe sunscreen — the sun doesn't take seasons off here.
Getting There & Around
Nearest Airports:
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS): The closest major airport, about a 45-minute drive to Navarre Beach.
- Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS): Another great option, also around 45 minutes away.
Transportation:
- Rental Car: Highly recommended — Navarre is spread out and most attractions, beaches, and restaurants are easier to reach by car.
- Bike Rentals: Fun and useful for exploring scenic coastal paths, especially along Gulf Boulevard.
- Uber/Lyft: Available but not super frequent — best to have your own wheels if you want flexibility.
- Parking: Public beach access lots are available, but they can fill up quickly in summer. Many vacation rentals offer private parking, which is a big plus.
Catch the Breeze, Chase the Views and Enjoy the Best of Navarre Beach
At Navarre Beach Property, we're here to make sure your stay isn't just comfortable — it's something you'll actually remember.
That's why we put this guide together: to help you get the most out of your time here. From beach days to local eats and everything in between, it's a straightforward way to explore what makes Navarre Beach such a special place.
