Whether you're into water sports, dolphin cruises, hiking, or fishing charters, Navarre Beach offers it all for nature lovers.
From the Smoky Mountains to the pristine beaches of Florida's Gulf Coast, nature always steals the show.
Planning a trip to Navarre Beach? If you're a nature lover, you're in for a treat—"Florida's Most Relaxing Place" is packed with outdoor fun and eco-adventures that let you experience the best of Mother Nature.
In this blog, I'll share 10 amazing things to do in Navarre Beach for anyone who loves the outdoors and dreamy nature getaways.
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At Navarre Beach Properties, we've got a variety of gorgeous vacation rentals, and I like to think we're pretty much local experts on all things Navarre Beach—no bragging, promise! 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. First time visiting Navarre Beach? take a look at these great tips.
Grab your shades—Navarre's outdoor magic starts now!
1. Enjoy Water Sports
Navarre Beach is a water lover's paradise. From tranquil paddles to high-energy thrills, the Gulf and Santa Rosa Sound offer endless ways to dive into adventure.
HIGHLIGHTS
2. Go on a Dolphin Cruise
Hop aboard a dolphin cruise and get ready for some serious wow moments. As you sail through the Gulf or Santa Rosa Sound, you'll likely spot playful pods of bottlenose dolphins splashing in the waves.
One of the top-rated tours in town is Navarre Beach Dolphin Tours. The guides pack the trip with fun facts about dolphin behavior and local marine life, so you're bound to learn a thing or two along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles, stingrays, and seabirds too! Many tours even include a stop for swimming or snorkeling—perfect for cooling off mid-adventure.
3. Relax at Navarre Beach
Unwind on the pristine white sands of Navarre Beach, a tranquil oasis along the Florida Panhandle. This uncrowded stretch of shoreline invites you to spread out your beach blanket, bask in the warm sunshine, and listen to the soothing sounds of the Gulf. Take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge, collecting seashells and dipping your toes in the gentle waves.
When you're ready to cool off, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Navarre Beach is also an excellent spot for beachcombing, as you never know what treasures the tide might bring in. Whether you're seeking solitude or quality time with loved ones, Navarre Beach offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
4. Explore the Navarre Beach Pier
Navarre Beach Pier stretches 1,545 feet into the Gulf, making it the longest pier in Florida—and one of the top spots for fishing, scenic views, and marine life sightings on the Panhandle.
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- Cast a line for redfish, Spanish mackerel, and more.
- Stroll the pier for panoramic views of the Gulf.
- Spot dolphins, sea turtles, and rays in the surf.
- Rent fishing gear or buy bait at the on-site shop.
- Pick up snacks and souvenirs at the small pier store.
- Great for both seasoned anglers and casual sightseers.
- Catch epic sunsets over the Gulf from the pier.
5. Picnic at Navarre Park
Pack a picnic basket and head to Navarre Park for a delightful al fresco dining experience. This well-maintained park offers plenty of shaded picnic tables, perfect for enjoying a meal while taking in the fresh air and natural surroundings. The park features a playground where children can burn off some energy, as well as a basketball court and a large open field ideal for games of catch or Frisbee.
Navarre Park also has a fishing pier that extends into Santa Rosa Sound, providing a peaceful spot to cast a line or simply admire the view.
6. Hike the Blackwater River State Forest
Just a short drive from Navarre Beach, Blackwater River State Forest is a sprawling natural escape with over 210,000 acres of forests, swamps, and riverways—perfect for hiking, paddling, and spotting wildlife.
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- Explore scenic trails, from easy walks to backcountry hikes.
- Trek through longleaf pine forests and cypress swamps.
- Spot wildlife like white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and native birds.
- Enjoy water activities on the Blackwater River—canoeing, kayaking, and tubing.
7. Visit Navarre Beach Marine Park
Discover the wonders of the underwater world at Navarre Beach Marine Park, a 35-acre park dedicated to preserving and showcasing the area's marine ecosystems. The park features two artificial reefs, constructed from concrete and limestone, which provide habitats for a diverse array of marine life.
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- Snorkel or dive into two artificial reefs teeming with marine life.
- Spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasionally dolphins.
- Stroll the boardwalk through protected dunes and coastal habitats.
- Learn about local ecology from interpretive signs along the trail.
8. Lucky Chucky Charters
Set sail on a fishing adventure with Lucky Chucky Charters, a trusted provider of inshore and nearshore fishing trips in the Navarre Beach area. Led by experienced local captains, these charters cater to anglers of all skill levels, from novice fishermen to seasoned pros. Your captain will guide you to prime fishing spots in the Gulf or Santa Rosa Sound, targeting a variety of species like redfish, trout, flounder, and Spanish mackerel.
Lucky Chucky Charters provides all the necessary fishing gear, bait, and licenses, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. In addition to half-day and full-day fishing trips, the company also offers sunset cruises and dolphin-watching excursions, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Florida coast from a unique perspective!
9. Coastal Life Charters & Adventures
Coastal Life Charters & Adventures lets you explore Navarre Beach by boat with guided trips to hidden coves, islands, and snorkeling spots. It's a fun, scenic way to discover the Gulf and Santa Rosa Sound.
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- Choose from snorkeling trips, island-hopping, or eco-tours.
- Visit secluded beaches and hard-to-reach coastal gems.
- Spot dolphins, sea turtles, and coastal birds along the way.
- All gear is provided, including snorkels and beach chairs.
10. Navarre Beach Kayaks
Explore the tranquil waters of Santa Rosa Sound at your own pace with Navarre Beach Kayaks. This kayak rental company offers a fleet of single and tandem kayaks, perfect for solo adventurers or couples looking to paddle together.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Rent single or tandem kayaks for solo or shared adventures.
- Paddle through calm, shallow waters.
- Spot dolphins, stingrays, and coastal fish in their natural habitat.
- Join guided tours with local experts sharing ecological insights.
- Great for both first-timers and experienced kayakers looking to explore the Sound.
Practical Tips and Essential Information
Here are a few handy tips to make your Navarre Beach trip and outdoor adventures even better:
- Best time to visit: Navarre Beach enjoys pleasant weather year-round, but the best time to visit Navarre Beach attractions for outdoor activities is from April to October. Keep in mind that summer months can be quite warm and humid.
- Beach safety: Always check the beach flag warning system before entering the water. Green means safe, yellow indicates caution, and red signifies dangerous conditions. Be aware of rip currents and marine life.
- Sun protection: Don't forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Florida sun, especially during midday hours.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent in the evenings, so bring insect repellent to keep them at bay.
- Parking: Navarre Beach has several public parking areas, some of which require a small fee. Arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
- Dining: The area boasts several excellent seafood restaurants, casual eateries, and beachside bars. Some popular options include Juana's Pagodas, Sailor's Grill, and Windjammers on the Pier.
Experience Navarre Beach like never before!
While visiting Navarre, stay like a local and book one of our Navarre Beach vacation rentals with all the space, privacy, and home-like amenities you need. From luxury beachfront homes to amazing rental condos, at Navarre Beach Properties, we guarantee you'll have a 5-star experience during your Navarre Beach vacation.
