Welcome to Navarre Beach, where calm and thrill meet on the perfect sandy coast of Florida. Situated between Pensacola and Destin, Navarre Beach can be a paradise for any tourist who enjoys it, and there are lots of the best things to do in Navarre Beach.
This hidden jewel has endless possibilities, from its sugar-white sands and turquoise waters to its vibrant ocean life and lush natural beauty. Suppose you are looking forward to stimulating water activity, exploring the shores on a romantic beach walk, or doing a wildlife tour on the beach. In that case, Navarre Beach becomes your perfect vacation destination.
Check out our guide and find the best things to do in Navarre Beach to find your next coastal getaway in paradise.
The Best Time to Visit Navarre Beach
| The Best time to visit | Best things to do in Navarre Beach in these seasons |
| January – March(Winter/Spring) | Enjoy peaceful beach walks, birdwatching at Gulf Breeze Zoo, and visiting local museums. |
| April – June(Spring/Early Summer) | Relax on the beach, go paddleboarding, take dolphin tours, and visit the Navarre Seafood Market. |
| July – September(Summer) | Swim, sunbathe, snorkel, and enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. |
| October – December (Fall/Winter) | Explore hiking trails at Blackwater River State Park, attend fall festivals, and go fishing at Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. |
12 Best Things to Do in Navarre Beach
#1 Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center
Navarre Beach is well-known for its aqua-blue waters. However, you need to explore the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Centre. It is a rescue centre for sea turtles and a place where humans can learn more about these endangered animals.
Visit to interact with Sweet Pea, the resident turtle, and other turtles, and liaise with those concerned with their conservation. They have also provided TV screens for more interaction with the nature of sea turtles. Walking tours are arranged for visitors to be with Sweet Pea to learn about their background and the causes and works of conservation.
Some tourism activities include beach cleaning, night turtle watching, and seminars to increase concern for sea turtle conservation. It is truly a chance to establish a link with nature on Navarre Beach and participate in an important cause such as marine conservation.
- Special Features: Dedicated to sea turtle rehabilitation and education. Interactive exhibits and guided tours are available.
- Address: 8740 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
- Official Website: Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center
- Phone No.: +1 850-684-3347
- Open Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
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#2 Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
The Navarre Beach Fishing Pier is one of the best things to do in Navarre Beach. Let me tell you a little bit about that. It is a long pier stretching deep into the spectacular Gulf of Mexico. You can get good fish there, like redfish, trout and mackerel. While you can fish here during fishing season, even if you don’t catch fish, it’s just a great place to walk around and admire the stunning ocean and coastline.
It is a tourist attraction with sea views, ocean waves crashing on the harbour, and beautiful sunsets. Summer, especially by the sea, is a great time to relax with friends or family. There are on-site shops to buy bait and snacks; it’s a relatively enjoyable way to spend a day on the water—the best attractions and activities for Navarre Beach tours.
- Special Features: Gulf of Mexico’s longest fishing pier. It is ideal for fishing and enjoying panoramic views.
- Address: 8579 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
- Official Website: Navarre Beach Fishing Pier
- Phone No.: +1 850-710-3181
- Open Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
#3 Navarre Seafood Market
Navarre Seafood Market is the location if you have a passion and craze for sparkling seafood. This eating place is at the waterfront, so you may be sure that fish, shrimp, crab, and oysters are freshly caught.Â
The seafood can be either prepared in your kitchen or enjoyed in their outdoor dining area. Their shrimp and smoked fish dip are on the fave list of meals to order. It is a family-owned business house, and the prices are affordable.
The ecosystem is laid-back and relaxing. Undoubtedly, getting fresh seafood at the Navarre Seafood Market is one of the best things to do in Navarre Beach.
- Special Features: Fresh local seafood market offering a variety of Gulf Coast seafood.
- Official Website: Navarre Seafood Market
- Address: 8658 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566
- Phone No.: +1 850-396-5105
- Open Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
#4 Spend a Day at Navarre Beach
One has to appreciate spending a day at Navarre Beach. How exciting that is! The beach has especially good white sand, and the water is green-blue. It is a good place for swimming, sand castle construction, and just sunbathing laziness.
Children can have fun trying to find some shells or just watching the birds fly around the island. Nevertheless, if you ever get bored or hungry, there are other good places where you can savour seafood within the vicinity. As for the views, if you are interested in fishing, then you can visit the pier or the river bank. You will see many varieties of fish, and if you are lucky enough or have the right time, you will witness a beautiful sunset.
As for the positive aspects of the park, I liked the playground the most because it is more suitable for children to play in and because it can be beneficial for the whole family to use the good weather outside. It is also one of the best things to do in Navarre Beach.
- Special Features: Pristine white sand beach with clear emerald waters. It is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, sand activities, etc.
- Address: Navarre Beach, FL 32566
- Official Website: Navarre Beach
- Phone No.: Not Available
- Open Hours: Always accessible
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
#5 Gulf Breeze Zoo
The Zoo in Gulf Breeze may be a nice location for kids to go for a fun day. Here, you can discover more than 800 animals, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and snakes, that can be seen up close. A petting zoo is nearby where children can interact with the animals. The zoo’s length can sometimes be much better, so you can effortlessly live in that area for a few hours, on foot around to peer everything. You can also feed animals, including giraffes and many other animals.
They provide a separate playground where children can play for a while, and adults have the option to supervise or take a brief break. It is a less expensive area to get to know distinctive animals from everywhere in the world while not having to travel far. The whole family will love looking at the stunning and unique animals at the Gulf Breeze Zoo, and exploring is one of the best things to do in Navarre Beach.
- Special Features: Home to over 900 animals, including giraffes and rhinos, it offers interactive experiences and train rides.
- Address: 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
- Official Website: Gulf Breeze Zoo
- Phone No.: +1 850-932-2229
- Open Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5: 00 PM
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
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#6 Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a place to have fun and learn about marine life. You can participate in the dolphin and sea lion shows and help the trainers, or get in the water with the available dolphin swim (sold separately) and dolphin “encounter” offerings.
You can have fun watching the sea lion do amusing things like barking and clapping approval while there are sharks in the tank circling the water. You may want to feed the stingrays as a stingray feeder at Stingray Beach. Also, there are large fish tanks with glass windows and porthole views, allowing you to observe sea creatures up close.
- Special Features: Offers dolphin and sea lion shows, interactive reveals, and marine animal encounters.
- Address: 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
- Official Website: Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
- Phone No.: +1 850-243-9046
- Open Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
#7 Navarre Family Watersports
Navarre Family Water Sports offers exciting water activities: water scooter driving, paddle boarding, parasailing, kite surfing, and kayaking. It’s a remarkable opportunity to fish with friends and family.
In the evening, there will also be an opportunity to rent an LED-lighted kayak and ride along the beautiful, glowing colours of the water. Parasailing gives an adventurous feel; similarly, jet skiing is another adventurous ride; kiteboarding also offers an adventurous feel, and flying a boat could be another great experience. It is a fun place on the water where one will likely have a good time, especially in a group.
- Special Features: Offers jet ski rentals, paddle boarding, and guided tours on Santa Rosa Sound.
- Address: 1451 Navarre Beach Causeway, Navarre Beach, FL 32566
- Official Website: Navarre Family Watersports
- Phone No.: +1 850-710-2137
- Open Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
#8 Blackwater River State Park
Blackwater River State Park is the real treasure; it is the territory of more than 600 acres of forests, water, and marsh. You can hire a kayak or a canoe, and the next thing you will be able to do is paddle through a deep-water river with trees and Spanish mosses.
Or go for a jog on the park trails through the forest, where you can see great birds and even turtles, and if you are luckier, you will also get to see alligators. It also has features like a river swimming beach when, for instance, the weather becomes a little hot for sunbathing and enjoying the park. There are also places to rent tents and cabins if you like spending the night there.
It is great accommodation where one can get out of the car and have more views of more plants and animals in Florida, slightly off Navarre Beach. It is one of the best things to do in Navarre Beach.
- Special Features: Offers canoeing, kayaking, hiking trails, and picnic areas along the Blackwater River.
- Address: 7720 Deaton Bridge Rd, Holt, FL 32564
- Official Website: Blackwater River State Park
- Phone No.: +1 850-983-5363
- Open Hours: 8:00 AM – Sundown, daily
- Google Maps : Get Directions
#9 Dolphin Cruise Tour
Visiting Navarre Beach on dolphin cruise tours is one of the most splendid activities one can engage in! Now, you can also watch how dolphins freely swim and play in the ocean on a rather large boat. The guides in the boat educate the people on the facts about the dolphins as they perform stunts and leap out of the water.
You could also see some sea turtles or big birds; your tour guide could show you other birds or sea turtles. The boat ride is rather entertaining, and you just lay back, enjoying the turquoise colour of the water. It warms the heart when you have the company of dolphins that greet and splash around the boat.
It is a fantastic way to look at such high-quality animals in their natural habitat. Going on a dolphin cruise excursion can be considered one of the finest things to do in Navarre Beach.
- Special Features: Offers dolphin-watching tours with knowledgeable guides, sunset and private charters are available.
- Address: 8713 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566, United States
- Official Website: Dolphin Cruise Tour
- Phone No.: +18508880023
- Open Hours: 7:00 AM to 8 00 PM daily
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
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#10 Scuba Diving at Navarre Beach
Scuba diving can be considered one of the best things to do in Navarre Beach for a notable underwater adventure. The clean waters offer awesome perspectives of the underwater animals and their existence, making it a pinnacle visitor vacation spot. If you are more likely to play on the edge rather than diving head first, it is just as fun to go for a swim or bob and paddle in the shallow ends of the sand.
Scuba is among the many attractions vacationers could engage in at Navarre Beach. It is a good way to get close to beautiful marine life and marine terrains, making it an adventurous way of engaging in the deep sea and getting a feel for the sea and its beauty.
- Special Features: Dive among artificial reefs with diverse marine life, suitable for all levels, with rental equipment and guided dives available.
- Address: 7925 White Sands Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566, United States
- Official Website: Scuba Diving Navarre
- Phone No.: +18508880023
- Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 5 00 PM daily
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Direction
#11 Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge
Suppose you are looking for a thrilling and adventurous escape. In that case, I suggest you explore the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, as it ranked among the top things to do in Navarre Beach regarding connecting with local wildlife while learning about local conservation efforts.
You may be aware of how animals that are injured and killed and those without parents are protected, taken care of, and prepared to be back in the wild. The refuge also has educational programs both in school and on vacation. It provides more than entertainment; it also has tour programs. It is ideal for anyone who might want to tour the place of wildlife and anything to do with the environment.
- Special Features:Â Offers dolphin-looking excursions with knowledgeable publications and offers educational exhibits and volunteer opportunities.
- Address: 3051 Cloptons Circle, Navarre, FL 32566
- Official Website: Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge
- Phone No.: +1 850-684-1485
- Open Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Monday, Tuesday: Closed
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Directions
#12 Glow Paddle
Glow Paddle is an extraordinary experience on Navarre Beach. It is like nothing you have ever done; no place will be like Navarre Beach and the Glow Paddle. It is a magical way to experience the water after the sun sets.
Paddleboarding with LED lights will create a peaceful, tranquil, and magical experience. The LED lights, combined with the reflectiveness of the calm, clear water, make a serene experience.
The views of Navarre Beach are different under the stars in the dark and are beautiful; the LED lights are the only light you see. You can enjoy a romantic evening, a fun and unique night with your friends, or even some peaceful time alone. You will always remember the beauty of the beach at night, and it will give you more respect for nature.
- Special Features: Experience paddleboarding with LED lights for a unique nighttime adventure on the water.
- Address: 8671 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566, United States
- Official Website: Glow Paddle
- Phone No.: +18509794569
- Open Hours: Daily 6:30 PM to 12:30 PM
- Google Map Direction Link: Get Direction
The Best Time to Visit Navarre Beach
| The Best time to visit | Best things to do in Navarre Beach in these seasons |
| January – March(Winter/Spring) | Enjoy peaceful beach walks, birdwatching at Gulf Breeze Zoo, and visiting local museums. |
| April – June(Spring/Early Summer) | Relax on the beach, go paddleboarding, take dolphin tours, and visit the Navarre Seafood Market. |
| July – September(Summer) | Swim, sunbathe, snorkel, and enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. |
| October – December (Fall/Winter) | Explore hiking trails at Blackwater River State Park, attend fall festivals, and go fishing at Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. |
Conclusion
Therefore, Navarre Beach is a unique destination with many things to offer for Florida’s Gulf Coast visitors. If you want to lie on the white sand, go for water sports, or meet the local wildlife, Navarre Beach offers it all to the tourists.
For starters, it’s a lovely beach with all the great features of a great holiday destination, to the fun of exploring the underwater marine life. Please navigate through our list to know the 12 best things to do in Navarre Beach and enjoy this beach town’s beauty and rich culture.
Some FAQs
What kind of fun water activities can I do in Navarre Beach?
You can paddleboard, jet ski, snorkel, parasail, and take excursions to see dolphins. Perfect For Water and Beach Playgrounds.
What are the top sites to see in Navarre Beach?
Suggested Sightseeing: Complete your visit to the Navarre area with time at the Sea Turtle Conservation Center, the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station, Gulf Breeze Zoo Fishing Pier, and Marine Park. There is so much to see and do at these places.
What is the best time to be in Navarre Beach?
Spring and fall are perfect when the weather is pleasant and with fewer crowds. Going there to do beachy things during the summer is good, and winter is quieter.
What type of activities can families enjoy in Navarre Beach?
Families can build sandcastles, visit parks like Blackwater River State Park, go on eco-tours, and join seasonal events and festivals.
