Navarre and Navarre Beach

Tucked between Pensacola Beach and Fort Walton Beach along Florida's spectacular Gulf Coast, Navarre Beach is one of the Emerald Coast's best-kept secrets — and one of its most extraordinary. Officially designated part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, one of only ten National Seashores in the United States, Navarre Beach offers eight miles of undeveloped, uncrowded, and federally protected shoreline where pure white sand meets the calm, emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Known as "Florida's Most Relaxing Place," Navarre Beach is the destination of choice for travelers seeking a quieter, more natural Gulf Coast experience — without sacrificing the beauty, adventure, or warm coastal hospitality that makes this stretch of Florida so unforgettable.

Salt Water Vacations is proud to offer vacation rentals on Navarre Beach, managed by our experienced all-local team with nearly 40 years on the Emerald Coast.

Why Navarre Beach is Unlike Any Other Florida Gulf Coast Destination

What sets Navarre Beach apart from every other destination on the Gulf Coast is its protected status. As part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, the beach's eight miles of coastline are permanently shielded from commercial overdevelopment — ensuring the dunes, wildlife, and water clarity that make it so remarkable remain intact for generations to come. From the brilliance of sunrise over the Santa Rosa Sound to the deep golds of a Gulf sunset, the natural beauty here is unrivaled.

Navarre Beach is situated on Santa Rosa Island, bordered by the Santa Rosa Sound to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and connected to the mainland community of Navarre via the Navarre Bridge. The relaxed, community-driven atmosphere on both sides of the bridge creates the perfect setting for a stress-free, restorative vacation.

Things to Do in Navarre Beach, Florida

Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
Stretching 1,500 feet over the Gulf of Mexico and standing 30 feet above the water, the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier is the longest pier in Northwest Florida — and one of the most remarkable vantage points on the entire Gulf Coast. Whether you're fishing for sought-after saltwater species, watching for dolphins in the emerald water below, or simply taking in the panoramic views from above the Gulf, the pier is an experience unto itself.

Gulf Islands National Seashore
Navarre Beach sits within the boundaries of Gulf Islands National Seashore, offering some of the most pristine, undisturbed natural coastline in the southeastern United States. Opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, and nature photography abound across the seashore's protected dunes and shoreline habitats.

Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary & Artificial Reefs
Beneath the surface of Navarre's emerald waters lies a network of artificial reefs that have become thriving marine ecosystems — a favorite among snorkelers and scuba divers. The Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary is one of the area's most unique natural assets and a compelling reason for underwater adventurers to choose Navarre over busier destinations.

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center
A wonderful family attraction and educational experience, the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center offers interactive exhibits on local marine life and ecosystems, and is home to Sweet Pea — the center's beloved resident sea turtle. An inspiring and memorable stop for guests of all ages.

Gulf Breeze Zoo
Just a short drive west of Navarre Beach, the Gulf Breeze Zoo offers an up-close wildlife experience with animals from around the world, making it a perfect family day trip away from the beach.

Panhandle Butterfly House
A unique and charming attraction near Navarre, the Panhandle Butterfly House offers an immersive encounter with native butterfly species in a natural garden setting — a delightful stop for nature lovers and families.

Navarre Park on the Sound
Situated along the Santa Rosa Sound, Navarre Park offers beautiful waterfront views, recreational amenities, and a peaceful setting that perfectly complements the beach experience just across the island.

Family Watersports Adventure Complex
For guests who want more action on the water, the Family Watersports Adventure Complex provides rentals and guided experiences for kayaking, paddleboarding, and more — all in the calm, protected waters of the Sound.

Outdoor Recreation & Nature
Navarre Beach and the surrounding area offer exceptional outdoor adventure opportunities:

• Fishing from the pier or deep-sea charter boats
• Snorkeling and scuba diving on artificial reefs
• Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Santa Rosa Sound
• Beachcombing for shells along undisturbed Gulf shoreline
• Hiking and nature trails through Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Birdwatching and wildlife observation in protected coastal habitats
• Blackwater River State Forest — approximately 45 minutes north — for hiking, biking, and horseback riding

Dining in Navarre Beach

Navarre's dining scene celebrates the Gulf-to-table tradition with fresh, locally sourced seafood and a casual, welcoming coastal atmosphere:

• Juana's Pagodas & Sailors' Grill — Navarre's oldest family-owned and operated restaurant, beloved for fresh Gulf seafood and stunning waterfront views on the Sound
• Windjammers on the Pier — Dining perched above the Gulf with unmatched views from the end of the longest pier in Northwest Florida
• Slippery Mermaid Sushi Bar — A local favorite bringing creative sushi to the Gulf Coast

Live music at local restaurants and bars is a staple of the Navarre Beach experience — check the local events calendar for performances and seasonal festivals throughout the year.

Navarre Beach Events & Festivals

• Navarre Beach Mardi Gras Parade — A lively annual community celebration with colorful floats and local entertainment
• Navarre Fishing Rodeo — A popular competitive fishing event drawing anglers from across the region
• Live Music & Seasonal Festivals — Year-round events celebrating the community, the coast, and the Gulf Coast way of life

Navarre Beach as a Home Base — Explore the Entire Gulf Coast

One of Navarre Beach's greatest advantages is its central location along the Emerald Coast. The peaceful atmosphere of Navarre makes it the perfect home base for day trips across the region:

• Pensacola Beach — approximately 14 miles west, with Pensacola's Downtown Historic District just beyond
• Fort Walton Beach — approximately 18 miles east, with Destin's world-class attractions, dining, and shopping just 10 miles further
• Gulf Breeze Zoo — a short drive west across the Navarre Bridge
• Blackwater River State Forest — approximately 45 minutes north for hiking, tubing, and forest recreation

Where is Navarre Beach Located?

Navarre Beach is located on Santa Rosa Island in Santa Rosa County, Florida, approximately 25 miles east of Pensacola and 24 miles west of Destin. The beach is accessible via the Navarre Bridge from the mainland community of Navarre. The nearest airports are Pensacola International Airport (PNS), approximately 30 miles west, and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), approximately 25 miles east.