The 9 Best Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Florida

Navarre Beach is perfect for a laid-back Florida vacation.

Navarre Beach doesn’t get as much attention as other vacation spots on the Florida Panhandle, like Destin and Santa Rosa Island, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing—especially if you want to avoid the crowds and spend time in nature. This under-the-radar beach community (located west of Destin) is home to a section of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, the Naval Live Oaks Nature Preserve, and other natural wonders. And there are plenty of other ways to have fun in “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place” like snorkeling, biking, and shopping. Read on for our top suggestions on things to do in the Navarre Beach area.

Hit The Beach

Bask In The Sun At Navarre Beach

This beautiful stretch of white sand and emerald water is one of the prettiest in the state. Clean and relatively uncrowded compared to other area beaches, the shore is wide and flat, making it ideal for strolling and shell-seeking.  

Enjoy Peace And Quiet At Opal Beach

Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, this protected area is between Navarre and Pensacola Beach. Enjoy a pristine beach experience without high rises, hotels, and other development, and with the comfort of restrooms, showers, and picnic pavilions. (There is an entrance fee.)

Explore Underwater At Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary

For excellent snorkeling, head to this marine sanctuary, which has three different artificial reef habitats about 100 yards from the shores of Navarre Beach. Gear rentals are available through many local companies, including Navarre Family Watersports. The sanctuary also offers glass-bottomed kayak tours during certain times of the year.

Stroll The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier

While at the beach, it’s impossible to miss this popular spot—it’s the longest pier in the Gulf of Mexico at 1,545 feet long. You can purchase a walking or a fishing pass for access; bait and fishing gear is available at the pier store. Open until 9 p.m. in the winter and 11 p.m. in the summer, it’s the best place in town to watch the sunset, and is also ideal for stargazing.

Enjoy Nature

Ride The Navarre Beach Bike Path

Bike paths don’t get more scenic than this one on Gulf Boulevard, which offers gorgeous ocean views. Coastal Wheels Bike Rentals can set you up with bikes and gear.

Hike The Naval Live Oaks Trails

This wooded nature preserve is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and one of America’s oldest federally protected forests. Located on Santa Rosa Sound, there are 10 trails available for walking and hiking (including an accessible boardwalk) where you can explore native plants and wildlife. The picnic area, which has tables, grills, and bathrooms, overlooks the ocean and is especially lovely. 

Support Conservation

Tour The Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Learn about the delicate ecosystem of the ocean and its inhabitants—particularly sea turtles—at this educational center. In addition to exhibits (including a 15,000 saltwater pool), there are behind-the-scenes tours and experiences that visitors of all ages can enjoy. Be sure to say hello to Sweet Pea, a green sea turtle who serves as the center’s resident mascot.

Visit Animals At Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge

This wildlife rehabilitation center has aided opossums, squirrels, turtles, pelicans, and many more native species. While this is its primary focus, the facility also has an education center with an outdoor area where you can see its “ambassador animals”, which include a barred owl, tortoises, a red fox, and snakes. 

Go Shopping

Navarre is by no means a shopping mecca, but there are several local gems where you’ll discover treasures for yourself or friends and family back home. Find the perfect Florida souvenir at The Flair Boutique, a women- and veteran-owned store selling beachy clothing and jewelry, toys, and more. Browse for home goods, food gifts, and art at Saltwater Cottage, which bills itself as “small seaside shop with something for everyone”. Support local artists by buying a handmade piece at Sand Dollar Cottage, which also offers classes. Southern Specialty offers giftable items like candles, accessories, pillows, and more.