As a beachside community hugging both the Gulf of Mexico and Santa Rosa Sound, Navarre offers watersports lovers endless aquatic opportunities. Miles of coastline, inland bays, protected marinas and nature preserves set the scene for adventures from stand up paddleboarding to sport fishing charters. Here are some top picks for hitting the water and making the most of this coastal paradise.
Kayaking
Paddling a kayak along Navarre’s gentle shores allows closely experiencing the area’s beauty and diversity. Rent a solo kayak to explore mangrove islands and observe marine life in the sound. Tandem kayaks allow family adventures – look for jumping mullet fish and dolphins cresting near your boat.
Pack a picnic lunch and snorkel gear to find a private beach only accessible by water. Guided eco-tours lead you through lush estuaries and marshes thriving with birds and native plants. Physical effort paddling pays off with awesome scenery.
Paddleboarding
Stand up paddleboarding provides another tranquil way to appreciate Navarre’s coastlines while getting an awesome workout for your core, arms and legs. Most outfitters offer boards specially fitted for fishing or yoga too. Glide atop the glassy sound waters or gently rock in the surf zone.
Cross the Santa Rosa Sound east towards Pensacola Beach for sightseeing. Pack dry bags to bring snacks, water, cameras and other gear. Rentals are available at most beach access points. Take a lesson if new to this popular sport.
Parasailing
New heights of thrills come from parasailing high above the waves. After boarding tandem with the pilot, the boat accelerates to lift you up to 450 feet floating from a parachute. Coast above the stunning emerald waters and Navarre Beach for amazing aerial views.
From up top you may spot sea turtles, manta rays, sharks and dolphins rarely seen from shore. Gentle dips and lifts occur as you drift behind the boat. Parasailing offers safe, exciting family fun with the bonus of phenomenal panoramic vistas.
Surfing and Skimboarding
While not known for huge waves, patient surfers can have fun riding Navarre’s more moderate breakers, especially near piers and jetties. Soft-top longboards help novices stand up in mellow swells. Take a lesson to learn proper techniques before paddling out.
Or try skimboarding in the swash zone. Toss the short buoyant board toward shore as waves recede and jump aboard to ride the surface back in across sand bars. Navarre’s typically smaller surf creates great conditions to hone these classic wave-riding sports.
Snorkeling and Diving
Under the water, you’ll find the real magic. Navarre’s clear coastal waters offer prime snorkeling and diving to experience vibrant marine life up close. Rent or bring full face snorkel gear and fins to spot angel fish, puffer fish, star fish and more off shore or on reefs.
Certified SCUBA divers can explore the USS Massachusetts wreck 15 miles offshore or join reef diving charters. Honest John’s Scuba also offers local wreck, night and drift diving expeditions. Get ready to be wowed peeking beneath the waves.
Jet Skiing
Zipping across the open waters on a turbocharged personal watercraft brings huge thrills and nonstop views. Rentals allow riders to cruise along the coastline or open ocean at your own pace. Experience Navarre’s scenery from new vantage points only accessible from the water.
Stop at secluded beaches in the National Seashore or cruise 100 yards offshore shadowing breaking waves and watching for dolphins. Safety training will ensure new riders feel comfortable handling the nimble but powerful machines. Jet skis provide high-speed maritime adventures.
On land or sea, Navarre delivers exhilarating watersports for all ages and skill levels. With countless coves, bays and miles of coastline to explore, you can try new activities daily. Hit the water during your stay for unforgettable fun and phenomenal nature sightings.