Navarre, Florida is a charming Gulf Coast destination with much to offer first-time visitors. Located in the Florida Panhandle along the sparkling emerald waters, this small beach community has a relaxed vibe and natural beauty. From fishing charters and kayaking to delicious seafood and nightlife, Navarre is packed with fun activities for travelers of all ages and interests. If it’s your first time visiting Navarre, make sure to add these top 10 things to your itinerary for an unforgettable trip.
Topping the list of must-do’s is spending time sunbathing and playing at Navarre’s picture-perfect white sand beaches. Grab your swimsuit, towels, sunhat and beach reads and head for the public beach access points at the end of Gulf Boulevard. Stake out a spot to enjoy the soft sands, gentle waves, and stunning views. Take a refreshing dip in the calm Gulf waters, build sandcastles, or simply relax and work on your tan. Be sure to also check out the old wooden fishing pier that makes for beautiful photos. Arrive early to claim that perfect spot with shade.
For an active adventure on Navarre’s gorgeous coastline, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Paddling along the shore provides a fun workout with amazing scenery. Watch for dolphins, seabirds, fish, and turtles as you glide through the tranquil turquoise waters. Bring snorkel gear too for peeking at the colorful marine life below the surface. Guided kayak eco tours are also available for exploring the coastal estuaries and ecosystems.
Anglers won’t want to miss the opportunity to charter a deep sea fishing excursion in the Gulf of Mexico. Book a private or shared boat and try your hand at reeling in popular catches like red snapper, king mackerel, cobia and more. Experienced captains know the best fishing spots and will take care of cleaning and filleting the day’s bountiful catch. Spending the day focused just on fishing makes for smooth sailing. Don’t forget sun protection!
For sightseeing and nature education, visit the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary. This protected area features elevated boardwalks through coastal dunes, marshes and lagoons. Spot native birds, turtles and alligators in their natural habitats while learning about the ecosystem. Make the climb to the top of the dunes for spectacular views too. It’s an amazing opportunity to admire Navarre’s environs up close.
No trip to Navarre is complete without sampling the fresh local seafood. From juicy shrimp to buttery grouper, the Gulf Coast fare at beachfront restaurants is incredible. Taste grilled or blackened catches, hefty po’ boys, seafood platters and more. Don’t miss the fried green tomatoes topped with crab or rich key lime pie for dessert. Locals are happy to offer their favorites and recommendations for the best dishes.
For family-friendly fun, the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center is a top area attraction. Interactive exhibits detail sea turtles’ amazing journeys and conservation efforts. Meet the permanent rescued turtle residents and check tour schedules to visit during nesting season. Watching the tiny hatchlings emerge is an unforgettable experience. Reservations book up quickly in summer, so plan ahead.
Casual strolls through Navarre Beach Marine Park make for peaceful sightseeing. Explore the walking paths and pontoon boardwalk while spotting egrets, herons and other coastal birds. Let the kids burn energy at the playground and cool off with an ice cream cone. Rest on a bench along the pier to soak in the beautiful views and sea breezes.
When the sun goes down, downtown Navarre comes alive. Savor a slice from the popular Pizza Pizza food truck or relax with a cold brew at a mellow tiki bar. Grab drinks and apps at lively local hangouts with live music and activities like trivia or karaoke. Don’t leave without watching a fireworks show over the waves – just pack some blankets and bug spray!
For a true beachfront stay, book a campsite at Navarre Beach Campground. Wake to the sound of crashing waves with stunning sunrise views over the dunes. Tent and RV sites have electric and water. Clean facilities mean you don’t have to rough it. Roast marshmallows and stargaze at night. Fall asleep to the melodic chorus of the ocean.
Finally, cap off your days in Navarre with a glowing sunset beach bonfire. Gather family and friends to build a fire in the soft sand. Swap stories, play acoustic guitar and bask in the peaceful ambiance. Cook s’mores as the flames flicker and the sky changes brilliant hues. Double check to fully extinguish embers before leaving this special scene.
With white-sand beaches, delicious seafood, nature encounters and after-dark fun, Navarre offers memorable experiences for first-timers. Take advantage of these top 10 things to do for an unforgettable introduction to this beautiful Gulf Coast destination. The stunning sunsets and wealth of activities promise a vacation packed with charm in Navarre, Florida.