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The Best Outdoor Activities in Navarre Beach

If you’re looking to spend time in the beautiful sunshiney outdoors, Navarre Beach is the perfect destination for your vacation! There are no limits to water activities in Navarre since we’ve got the ocean, several nearby rivers and the Santa Rosa Sound which is the body of water between the ocean and the mainland of Navarre. Of course there are many land-based activities as well since we have several State and National Parks nearby. Let’s dive in to learn about the best outdoor activities in Navarre Beach.

The calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico make it the perfect setting for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and diving.

Kayaking at Navarre Beach

Kayaking is the ultimate water sport that lets you pop into your own individual boat, armed with a paddle, and glide through rivers or ocean waves, all while experiencing the beautiful scenery and serenity of the water. You also get a fantastic upper body workout!

At Navarre Beach, you can rent kayaks easily at several locations including on Santa Rosa Sound (the locals call it the soundside) off Highway 98 or you can find rental spots by Juana’s Pagodas or all along Gulf Boulevard which runs parallel to the ocean. Some companies even deliver kayaks to you and offer a quick start lesson upon delivery.

You can also rent the kayaks and take them to the nearby East Bay, Blackwater Bay, East Bay River, Yellow River or the Blackwater River State Park. Each of these locations have their charms and offer different scenery.

Paddleboarding at Navarre Beach

With a kayak you have a little more control of the vessel. Standing on a paddleboard is not difficult, though you will get a great core workout. The calm and serene waters in Navarre definitely set you up for the most success when it comes to paddleboarding.

Paddleboarding is simply standing atop your paddleboard, paddle in hand and gliding through the waters. It is a unique experience to feel the gentle pull of your paddle as you travel through the calm waters and have an excellent vantage point to see nature up close.

What you experience depends on where you decide to paddleboard. If you’re in the Gulf Of Mexico at Navarre Beach, you might see a number of busy little sea life creatures at the artificial reef. The crystal clear waters and gentle waves allow you to see a lot from above, without necessarily having to snorkel or dive.

Paddleboarding in the Santa Rosa Sound might still lead to wildlife encounters including dolphin spotting.

One of the biggest advantages to paddleboarding is the tranquility. As you push out into the water, the noise and busyness of everyday life fades, replaced by the gentle sound of water lapping against your kayak. You’re going to love it, especially when you combine that peace with the breathtaking views at Navarre Beach including the emerald green waters and the undisturbed sand dunes.

Snorkeling and Diving at Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach is home to four artificial reefs that have been strategically placed in the Gulf of Mexico and Santa Rosa Sound to attract marine life and provide opportunities for divers and snorkelers to explore exciting underwater ecosystems.

The reefs, called near-shore reefs, allow people of all skill levels to witness colorful fish, coral formations, sea turtles and more just a few hundred feet off-shore. They are a fun and inexpensive option to give snorkeling and diving a try.

Jet Skiing and Boating At Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach offers many opportunities if you’re looking for some excitement with a jet ski or a boat. Both are available for rent at several spots on the soundside. Jet Skiers can be seen everyday zooming around the Santa Rosa Sound. Navarre Beach is also a great starting point for a day trip to nearby Crab Island, a popular sandbar located in Destin, Florida. The shallow area is a fun gathering spot for locals and tourists where you’ll find them anchoring down their boats and setting up for the day to swim, float, socialize and play games.

By The Water Activities

If you’re ready to get out of the water but still stay active, there’s much more to do in Navarre!

Fishing At Navarre Beach

Fishing is definitely one of the most popular outdoor activities in Navarre. However you like to fish, Navarre Beach can accommodate. There is fishing inshore and offshore, charter fishing and pier fishing. You’ll also find many people fishing directly on the beach or off of the roads and bridges that bring you from the mainland to Navarre beach. And that’s just saltwater fishing! You can also fish the bays and rivers a few miles north to keep it interesting!

The most popular fish caught at Navarre Beach and surrounding waters include Redfish (Red Drum), Speckled Trout, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel and Pompano.

Take Scenic Ride at Navarre Beach

Head over to the scenic drive that spans the Gulf Islands National Seashore national park and space between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach. Why? There are so many ways to enjoy it!

You can enjoy a beautiful walk, run or bike ride. Then you also always rent a golf cart, scooter or an electric bike. Regardless of the way you decide to traverse the scenic trail, you’ll absolutely love being in the 25-mile stretch that hosts protected, unspoiled sands and dunes. As you travel west, you’ll have breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico on your left and the natural, rolling hills laced with dune grass and views of the Santa Rosa Sound to the right. Pack a picnic and bring water because you can take a break at the several parking lots and beach fronts along the way.

Hiking at Navarre Beach

If you’re looking to change it up a bit, you’ll find several parks that will provide you with hiking adventures and trails near Navarre Beach. The Florida Trail also starts near Navarre and heads all the way through the state. There are many parts of that trail you can hop on while visiting Navarre Beach.

  • Take Your Pup On The Florida Trail: Just a few minutes north of Navarre Beach is an easy, 5.4-mile out-and-back trail that generally takes less than 2 hours to complete. The hike to Dean Creek is a popular trail where dogs are welcome. You can get there by heading up Highway 87 to the parking lot for the Dean campsite.
  • Nature Trail at Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park: Located approximately 35 miles northeast of Navarre Beach is a 2.5-mile trail that runs along the Yellow River with views of marsh, forested wetlands, seagrass beds and the largest concentration of pitcher plants in all of Florida.
  • The Opal Beach Trail at Gulf Islands National Seashore: How often do you get to consider a walk at the beach a hike? There is a 1.5 mile loop run that is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail that will offer you beautiful views of the Gulf or Mexico.
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  • Arcadia Mill Historic Site: This 1.3-mile loop trail near Milton, Florida has a boardwalk and lots of signs with historical information and even some ruins to make it an informative trip.
  • Jackson Red Ground Trail at Blackwater River State Forest: Just 30 miles northeast of Navarre Beach, this trail takes you along the scenic Blackwater River through picturesque pine forests on a 4-mile trail.

Navarre Beach offers a wide range of outdoor activities that will make your vacation fun and adventurous! From kayaking and paddleboarding along the serene waters to exhilarating jet skiing and boating adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The area’s artificial reefs and abundant marine life provide opportunities for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, while hiking trails in nearby state parks allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty Navarre’s parks have to offer. For more information and assistance in planning your outdoor adventures, consider Emerald Waters Property Management!

The Most Relaxing Things to Do in Navarre Beach

There is perhaps nothing more relaxing than sitting and watching the waves come and go at Navarre Beach. The beautiful landscape, the lull of the Gulf of Mexico’s gentle waters, and the lack of commercial and industrial disturbance make Navarre Beach a very relaxing place.

But what else can you do to relax in Navarre Beach? What other activities can you do to unwind and foster wellness? In this article, we’ll give you a few ideas to change it up while maintaining that laid-back experience Navarre is known for.

Take a walk

You can only sit and watch the waves for so many hours. One way to shake it up is to take a walk along the water’s edge. Consider listening to an audiobook or simply searching for seashells.

If you want a different view, you can head over to the Navarre Beach Multi-Use Path, which runs parallel to Gulf Blvd.

Take a ride on the prettiest scenic route in the country

While we’re on the topic of the Multi-Use Path, consider renting a bike, golf cart, or moped and traversing the path that leads into the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Stretching 25 miles, the path takes you right through protected, unspoiled sands and dunes. On one side, you’ll see gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico, while the other side’s view is laced with dune grass leading to the Santa Rosa Sound. There are also parking lots and beachfronts to stop by along the way.

Cuddle up with the sun & a good book

If you get tired from all of that walking and bike riding, it’s time to rest with a good book on the white, sugary sands. Grab some sun protection and that book you’ve been meaning to read for months. Time passes very slowly with this particular activity, and you’ll find yourself very relaxed and refreshed.

Set an alarm for the sun

Watching the sun come up over the ocean can only be rivaled by watching it go down over those same waters. You’ll have to decide which is better, but you should definitely give both a shot.

Check your weather app for the official sunrise or sunset time and be sure to be out at the beach to watch the beautiful display. Depending on the time of year, you’ll either set up shop near the Gulf of Mexico side or near the Santa Rosa Sound side.

Yoga on the beach

Do you know any yoga moves? Why not give them a try at the beach? There’s nothing more centering than the feeling of being one small human being next to the large, vast ocean.

Just in case you don’t keep yoga poses stored in your memory, there are many yoga studios in Navarre. Many of them offer classes at the beach, and all of them have a variety of class schedules that should make attending a class at a location fit your schedule. Attending class in the studio can also give you something very relaxing to do while you take a break from the sun and sand.

Out of the sand and into the water

You can buy or rent any number of water toys near Navarre Beach. One of the most relaxing things to do at Navarre Beach is kayaking or paddleboarding. If you’re a beginner, it might be best to start in the Santa Rosa Sound as the water is typically a little calmer. It’s also fun to explore, and there is more to see. However, big waves are rare at Navarre Beach, so you can feel confident in hopping in the water.

Pop into a spa

When you think of relaxing, you might conjure an image of a spa with someone getting a massage with cucumbers covering their eyes. Good news! Navarre Beach has numerous spas and salons that can give you another option to relax and unwind while also giving your skin a break from the sun.

You’re on vacation, so feel free to pamper yourself at one of our local spas or wellness centers with a massage, facial, or any of the other rejuvenating treatments they offer.

Be entertained by the marine life

Who wouldn’t agree that watching dolphins swim and play is relaxing? You can book a dolphin-watching tour in Navarre Beach to increase your odds of seeing the playful animals. There are more wildlife sights to see at Navarre Beach, however. Look carefully, and you might see a school of fish, a manta ray, or even a sea turtle. You’ll have even better luck if you swim or kayak out to any of the four man-made reefs placed in the ocean and sound.

The birds are fun to watch at Navarre Beach. You’ll mostly find pelicans, herons, egrets, sandpipers, and seagulls. Watching the pelicans dive-bomb into the ocean can be quite entertaining. The sandpiper’s endless pursuit for a tasty morsel right along the water’s edge will take your mind off any worries or troubles you’ve got.

Navarre Beach is also known for its dolphin population. You can find them swimming in the Gulf of Mexico or in the Santa Rosa Sound. While they are often seen in the early morning and late afternoon (think right after sunrise or right around sunset), you can easily luck out and see them any time of day. Just look for fins, splashes, or even seabirds congregating. And remember, dolphins often swim in pods, so where there is one, there may be more!

Emerald Waters Property Management is your go-to source for beachfront vacation rentals in Navarre Beach. We’re confident you’ll find the perfect property for your next beach getaway with our commitment to unmatched cleanliness and exceptional service.

Why Navarre Beach Should Be Your Next Beach Getaway

There are many beaches to visit on vacation, but none quite compare to Navarre Beach. In this guide, we’ll tell you exactly why Navarre Beach should be your next vacation spot, whether you’re planning a family vacation, a girl’s trip, or even a romantic getaway. We’ll cover the advantages of a Navarre Beach vacation, including:

  • Why Navarre Beach is renowned for having the best beaches in Florida.
  • How the beaches in Navarre offer tranquility and privacy.
  • The wide range of outdoor activities available at Navarre Beach.
  • Why Navarre Beach is considered family-friendly.
  • The ease of getting to Navarre Beach.

Why The Beaches In Navarre Are The Best Beaches In Florida:

The beaches of Navarre are unparalleled. While there are other spots on the Gulf Coast that boast pretty white sands and crystal clear turquoise waters, none can rival the unspoiled, non-commercialized beaches of Navarre Beach.

Part of this advantage is owed to the adjacent Gulf Islands National Seashore. The federally-owned land has prevented large-scale development seen in other nearby destinations like Pensacola Beach, Destin, and Panama City Beach. Other lands neighboring Navarre Beach are owned by the county and the Department of Defense, keeping the area small and helping it to maintain its local charm. This protection has also helped keep the beaches clean and free from the disturbances of highly trafficked commercial areas.

The sandbars at Navarre Beach add to the beauty of the shore while also keeping the waves calm and creating a separation between beachgoers and much of the marine life. Unlike other beaches in the country, you can see straight to the bottom of the ocean floor at Navarre Beach, which is appealing for anyone feeling a little trepidation about the water.

*What is a sandbar? Sandbars are shallow areas of the ocean floor that run parallel to the shoreline and provide a safer place to swim, snorkel, and search for seashells.

How The Beaches In Navarre Are More Peaceful And Private

The neighboring state and federal parks help keep the crowds at bay in Navarre Beach. While you’ll still find plenty of vacationers, Navarre Beach maintains a laid-back atmosphere with uncrowded shores and less hustle and bustle.

Navarre Beach benefits from the diligent efforts of county, state, and federal officials who prioritize wildlife protection and the preservation of the natural environment. As a result, your vacation experience becomes even more relaxing, allowing you to truly unwind and rejuvenate.

Navarre Beach is also less known than many of the most popular Florida beach vacation destinations, making it the perfect hidden gem for your next getaway.

The Outdoor Activities Available At Navarre Beach

The variety of outdoor activities to do at Navarre Beach is another reason it’s a must for your vacation wishlist.

Traditional water activities like jet skiing, boating and sailing are popular at Navarre Beach with many options to rent if you can’t bring your own. The same can be said for kayaks and paddleboards, which are perfect vehicles for the calm waters and sandbars at Navarre Beach. 

There are four artificial reefs teeming with marine wildlife and ecosystems that are perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving adventures.

You’ll also find plenty of people biking, golf carting and otherwise enjoying the warm Florida weather year round. Beach volleyball and pickleball are popular sports in Navarre Beach. On any given day you’ll find families and friends playing Bocce Ball, slamball or tossing a football or frisbee–made possible on the uncrowded beaches in Navarre.

Of course, fishing is big among the locals who frequent the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier and shorelines in search of a good catch. The soundside, rivers and bays near Navarre Beach are also popular fishing spots.

Why Navarre Beach Is Considered Family-Friendly

The lack of commercialism and consumerism in Navarre makes it a great place for families who are looking to get away and make memories. There are no nearby nightclubs or specific adult-minded entertainment spots which means Navarre Beach tends to draw a more family-friendly crowd. There are also many family-friendly activities like the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center and the Gulf Breeze Zoo that make it an ideal destination for families.

The Ease Of Getting To Navarre Beach

Getting to Navarre Beach is not complicated. It is conveniently located in Northwest Florida, making it an easy day’s-drive from nearby states. With its close proximity to Interstate-10, it’s accessible for those coming by car or camper. Navarre Beach is right in the middle of the Pensacola International Airport and the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport. Driving distance from both airports to Navarre Beach is around 45 minutes.

Another advantage of Navarre Beach is how accessible the beach actually is with many large parking lots with beachfront accesses, restrooms, pavilions and showers. Many other beaches are forced to prioritize land and access for hotels. Since Navarre Beach is primarily on government owned and protected land, the access points to the beach are prioritized instead. At other beaches you might struggle to find a public beach access. At Navarre Beach, you’ll find them almost every half mile.

Navarre Beach should absolutely be your next beach getaway since its laid-back, uncrowded beaches are unparalleled. The fun outdoor activities, family-friendliness and ease of access are all great advantages you’ll love that are hard to find at other beaches.

If you want to add Navarre Beach to your vacation bucket list, Emerald Waters Property Management has you covered. We offer homes and condos for every budget. Our properties are unmatched in cleanliness, comfort and service. To stay at one of our rental properties in Navarre Beach, please make a reservation online or give us a call. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. Helping you have the perfect beach vacation will be the highlight of our day!

Top Tips for a Perfect Beach Vacation in Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach is the perfect vacation location if you’re like beautiful turquoise, see-through waters, relaxation and soaking up sunshine. This article will help you make the most of your trip by providing you with some insider tips for the perfect beach vacation. In this article we’ll cover:

  • Packing Essentials For A Beach Vacation
  • Staying Safe In The Sun While On A Beach Vacation
  • Safety Tips For Beachgoers

Packing Essentials For A Beach Vacation

You’ll see every shape and size of swimwear at Navarre Beach. Your best bet is to pick a suit that you feel comfortable and confident in that also matches your goals for the beach. For example, if your main goal is to work on your tan, you’ll want a suit that gives you minimal tan lines.

On the contrary, if you’re coming on a vacation with your kids, you want to make sure that your suit allows for the bending, lunging and chasing around that your parental life will be sure to bring.

Also, check your suit for the SPF number. You’ll find many children at Navarre Beach wearing long-sleeved SPF tops or one pieces to protect their young skin.

Consider a hat of some sort in order to protect your head, ears and nose. The nose often takes the brunt of sunburn accidents, so be sure to lather on extra sunscreen on your schnoz.

When it comes to sunscreen, many beachgoers prefer spray-on because it is easier to apply. There are many options when it comes to spray-on sunscreen at the local stores. You’ll find the lifeguards using a more mineral-based sunscreen that has zinc as its primary ingredient which some people consider better since the ingredients are natural and it is more gentle on your skin.

You’ll also want to have sunglasses at the beach. While all beaches require sunglasses, Navarre Beach is especially bright due to the sugary-white sand that reflects sunlight. When you choose a pair, be sure they also offer UV protection.

Beach towels, blankets, chairs, tents and umbrellas are all nice to have for your beach visit. One of the most popular options for shade on Navarre Beach lately is the Shibumi since it looks neat and packs into a small over-the-shoulder bag.

Flip flops are the shoe of choice at Navarre Beach along with Crocs and Birkenstocks. While you’ll see the occasional water shoe at Navarre Beach, most choose to go free-footed into the crystal clear waters since they are free from debris on the ocean floor and you can see exactly where you’re stepping.

Other popular items people bring to the beach are waterproof phone cases (or a Ziplock bag if you’re in a pinch), bluetooth speakers, snacks, footballs, frisbees and kites.

Staying Safe In The Sun While On A Beach Vacation

The most important tip to stay safe at Navarre Beach is sun safety. Your vacation does not need to be ruined by a sunburn! In order to prevent sunburns or sun poisoning, you can take a few precautions.

First, choose sunscreen that is based on your needs. How much sun you’ve had, how your skin reacts to sun and how long you will be at the beach at any given time will all affect that choice.

Also, don’t be shy when applying sunscreen. Better thick application and no sunburn than thin application and being woken up in the middle of the night on vacation because your sunburn hurts every time you move.

Don’t miss these top spots people miss when applying sunscreen:

  • Scalp: If you have hair or a receding hairline, the scalp can be easily missed. As we mentioned before, wearing a hat can definitely make this more simple.
  • Ears: The tops, backs, and even the earlobes can be easily neglected while applying sunscreen. Your ears deserve better!
  • Neck: There is a sweet spot for the sun that comes after what your hat protects but before what your suit protects. So, be sure you don’t overlook your neck line, front and back, when applying.
  • Feet: Yes, people get their feet sunburned. It happens. Even if you’re wearing shoes, you’ll probably need sunscreen. Plus, it’ll help you avoid the weird sandal strap tan line you’ll get otherwise.
  • Back of the knees: The top of the knees are front stage to the sun when you’re sitting, so don’t forget them. And because the back of the knee can get little sun, if you’re tanning you might ensure extra protection for that area.

One of the best ways to help regulate the amount of sun you get is to take advantage of shade with a big umbrella or tent. Be careful with small umbrellas because parts of your body might be exposed unevenly and you may not even notice!

While you’re out in the sun, be sure you drink plenty of water. Pack it in the cooler before you go!

One of the best tips to avoid overdosing on the sun or heat exhaustion is to go to the beach early in the morning or toward the late afternoon and evening. Leave the middle of the day when the sun is at its most intense for indoor activities, shopping, lunch dates and taking naps. Consider a schedule of beach time before 11am and after 2pm.

Safety Tips and Guidelines for Beachgoers

Navarre Beach has a terrific safety flag system to help you stay safe in the water. Signs are posted at every entrance to help you remember:

  • Double Red Flags mean water is closed to the public
  • Red Flag is a high hazard and high surf and/or strong currents are present
  • Yellow Flag is a medium hazard and moderate surf and/or currents are present
  • Green Flag is a low hazard means the conditions are calm and you should exercise caution
  • Purple Flag means there is dangerous marine life present such as jellyfish

Rip currents are powerful currents of water that move away from the shore. Signage about rip currents is also posted all over Navarre Beach to educate you on what they are and give you a visual representation so you can watch out for them yourself.

Additionally, lifeguards are stationed at five different towers to watch over your fun beach time. They recommend you always swim near a lifeguard tower and also never swim alone for the highest beach safety.

Other guidelines to keep in mind for Navarre Beach is that no fires, dogs or glass containers are allowed. You’ll notice special lighting in the evening at Navarre Beach which is put into place to help our beloved sea turtle population who love to nest on Navarre Beach. Nearby on Navarre Bridge, you might see areas roped off to help the Black Skimmers that love to nest there. The sand dunes are a beautiful backdrop at the beach, but they are also protected and off limits since they are fragile.

Navarre Beach is the ultimate paradise for beach lovers seeking stunning blue-green waters, relaxation, and an abundance of sunshine. Use these tips to ensure your beach vacation is nothing short of perfection. Make sure you’ve got everything we mentioned on your packing list, that you and the sun stay on a close-but-not-too-close relationship and be sure to avoid the guidelines we have here that keep Navarre Beach awesome!

Ready to make your dream beach vacation a reality at Navarre Beach? Look no further than Emerald Waters Property Management. We offer a variety of homes and condos that cater to every budget. Our top-notch properties are known for their pristine cleanliness, cozy comfort, and outstanding service. Whether you’re ready to book online or prefer a friendly chat, we’ve got you covered. Feel free to reach out with any questions or special requests. Your perfect beach getaway awaits, and we’re here to make it unforgettable!