From the heart of the action to East and West Navarre and the mainland, you're never far from what this Florida gem is best known for: peace and natural beauty.
Planning a trip to "Florida's Most Relaxing Place?" Picking the right area and the right place to stay in Navarre Beach can make all the difference.
No matter if it's just you, the whole crew, or a getaway for two, Navarre Beach has a place that fits the vibe.
In this blog, I'll walk you through Navarre Beach's neighborhoods and share some tips on where to stay and how to pick the perfect spot for an unforgettable vacation.
A little preview before you dive in:
Neighborhood Snapshots
- Navarre Beach (Central) – Walkable, close to restaurants and the pier, mostly condos with great views and amenities.
- East Navarre Beach – Quieter, community feel, perfect for military families and long-term stays.
- West Navarre Beach – Laid-back and close to Gulf Breeze/Pensacola, with diverse housing options.
- Mainland (South of Hwy 98) – Sound-front homes, great for boaters and those wanting shopping nearby.
- East Bay / Holley – More space, stately homes, and a peaceful, upscale feel away from the tourist core.
Vacation Rental Options
- Beach Houses: Great for big groups, with pools, decks, and direct beach access.
- Condos: Convenient and often budget-friendly, with Gulf views and shared amenities.
- Townhouses & Cottages: A cozy middle ground with charm and extra space at a great value.
Rental Tips
- Know your group size and must-haves (beachfront? pet-friendly? pool?)
- Book early—Navarre fills up fast, especially in peak season.
- Set a clear budget and plan ahead for your ideal vacation experience.
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.
Navarre Beach Overview
Navarre Beach is such a gem! It sits right on Santa Rosa Island, a skinny strip of land with the Gulf on one side and the peaceful Santa Rosa Sound on the other. That means you get the best of both worlds—waves and sunsets on the Gulf, calm waters for paddling on the Sound.
The vibe? Super laid-back. It's the kind of place where you kick off your shoes, forget your to-do list, and just enjoy the moment. And when you're ready to explore, there are plenty of cool local spots to check out beyond the beach.
here are some of the highlights
- Two coastlines: Gulf-side waves for beach fun, Sound-side calm for paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Navarre Beach Marine Park & Sea Turtle Conservation Center: Learn about local wildlife and sea turtle protection.
- Navarre Beach Fishing Pier: Take in the views or cast a line in Florida's longest fishing pier, stretching 1,545 feet into the Gulf.
- Great location: Close to Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach, but far enough to skip the crowds.
- Relaxed vibe: A peaceful escape where you can slow down and soak it all in.
Navarre Beach Neighborhoods
Navarre Beach isn't huge, but each little section has its own vibe. Knowing those quirks can really help you pick the perfect spot to call home—at least for your vacation!
Here's some handy info about Navarre Beach's neighborhoods to help you find the area that's just right for you.
Navarre Beach (General): Right in the Heart of It
This is where all the action happens! You're just steps from the beach, and it's super walkable—dinner spots, shops, and the pier are all close by. Most places to stay around here are condos with awesome Gulf views and extras like pools and on-site gyms.
The best part? Navarre Beach has kept things low-key with minimal high-rises, so it still feels relaxed. If you like being in the heart of it all, this area's probably your sweet spot.
highlights
East Navarre Beach: Convenient and Community-Oriented
Heads up if you're connected to Hurlburt Field or Eglin AFB—East Navarre Beach might be just what you're looking for. The commute is super easy, and the area has more of a local, residential vibe. You'll find a mix of established neighborhoods, with and without HOAs (Homeowners Associations), so you can go with what works best for your lifestyle. It's a bit quieter and more removed from the tourist buzz, which a lot of folks really like. Since it's popular with full-time residents, it has a strong sense of community—and it's a great pick if you're planning a longer stay.
Highlights
- Quick and easy commute to Hurlburt Field and Eglin AFB.
- Residential feel with a mix of HOA and non-HOA neighborhoods.
- Quieter and more laid-back, away from the main tourist spots.
- Strong community vibe with lots of full-time residents.
- Great option for longer stays or extended vacations.
West Navarre Beach: Close to Everything
If you like being close to both Navarre Beach and the amenities of Gulf Breeze and even Pensacola, West Navarre Beach is worth a look. You get that laid-back beach feel while still having easy access to city conveniences. The housing options are diverse, ranging from charming beach bungalows to larger family homes.
Keep an eye out for properties in Holley by the Sea, which offers a range of amenities. West Navarre Beach is perfect if you like having the beach close by but also want to explore a bit beyond the shoreline. And yep, the beaches over on this side are just as gorgeous.
Highlights
Navarre Beach Mainland (South of 98): Sound-Side Serenity
This area is on the mainland, south of Highway 98, but still very much part of the Navarre Beach community. A big plus is the easy access to Highway 98, making it convenient to get around.
But the real draw here is the Santa Rosa Sound! Homes right on the Sound are super desirable, offering stunning water views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports. It's a quieter, more residential area, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with a focus on waterfront living. It's also a good option if you are looking for a house that is closer to shopping centers.
Highlights
- Easy access to Highway 98 for quick trips around town.
- Prime location along the Santa Rosa Sound with beautiful water views.
- Great for boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and other water activities.
- Quiet, residential vibe—ideal for a peaceful, laid-back stay.
- Close to shopping centers and everyday conveniences.
- Perfect for those who want waterfront living without being right on the Gulf.
East Bay Area/Holley: Space and Style
Venture a little north of Navarre, closer to East Bay, and you'll find the East Bay area, including parts of Holley. Here, you'll discover stately homes and well-maintained subdivisions. The properties here often have larger lots and more space, giving you room to spread out.
It's a great option if you want a more upscale feel and appreciate a bit of distance from the main tourist area. You can live in a quiet, secluded spot while being within easy reach of the beach and other Navarre attractions.
Highlights
- Stately homes and well-kept subdivisions with a more upscale feel.
- Larger lots and more space for privacy and comfort.
- Quiet and secluded, away from the main tourist zones.
- Still within easy reach of Navarre Beach and local attractions.
- Ideal for those who want a peaceful retreat with room to spread out.
Finding the Perfect Navarre Beach Vacation Rentals
Alright, now that you've got the scoop on the neighborhoods—let's talk about where you'll actually stay. The good news? Navarre Beach has something for just about everyone.
Here's a quick rundown:
BEACH HOUSES: Room for Everyone
If you're traveling with a bigger group—like a family reunion or a getaway with friends—a beach house in Navarre Beach can make all the difference.
There's plenty of room for everyone to spread out, and many come with great extras like private pools, big decks for grilling, and direct access to the beach. It's a laid-back, homey setup you just won't get from a hotel.
CONDOS: Convenience and Views
For a super convenient, often more budget-friendly option, condos are a great pick. You'll find them all along the beach, and many come with those coveted Gulf views. Plus, condo complexes frequently have amenities like shared pools, fitness centers, and even on-site restaurants.
It's like having a hotel with extra space and a kitchen! They're perfect for couples, small families, or anyone who wants a hassle-free vacation.
TOWNHOUSES AND COTTAGES: A Cozy Middle Ground
Looking for something in between a sprawling house and a compact condo? Navarre Beach townhouse rentals and Navarre Beach cottage rentals might be just the ticket. They often offer more space than a condo, but at a potentially lower price point than a large beach house.
Cottages, in particular, are super charming and perfect for smaller families or couples seeking a cozy, intimate retreat. Townhouses often have multiple levels, providing a nice separation of space. They're great for those who want a bit more room to spread out without breaking the bank.
Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Navarre Beach Rental
So, how do you actually nail that perfect Navarre Beach rental?
A few things to keep in mind:
- First off, set a budget and stick to it.
- Second, know how many people you're traveling with – that'll quickly narrow down your options.
- Think about your "must-haves" – is a pool essential? Do you need to be right on the beach?
- Try to book well in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season (summer, holidays). Things fill up fast!
- If you're bringing your furry friend along, be sure to look for pet-friendly rentals.
With a little planning, you'll find a spot that's just right for you!
Experience the best of Navarre Beach
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.
