15 Best Things To Do In Navarre, Florida

things to do in navarre florida
Sydney
Sydney 
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Navarre is a sleepy beach town, about a 40-minute drive east of Pensacola with amazing beach house rentals. If you’re wondering where exactly is Navarre, FL, we’ve got you covered. Located on the mainland of the Florida Panhandle, Navarre also extends onto a barrier island, using the Navarre Beach Causeway, called the Navarre Beach Marina Park. The city’s shores feature emerald waters and white sand that are characteristic of Gulf Coast beaches. In the most fitting fashion, many free things to do in Navarre, Florida are focused on activities that take advantage of Navarre’s outdoor beauty and indigenous animals.


Read on to find out about the top things you can do in Navarre, FL. If you’re still wondering what to do in Navarre Beach, why not book one of the best Airbnb vacation rentals in the area and discover the best things to do in Navarre, Florida, from our curated list below.

1. Navarre Family Watersports

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

We will begin installation of our waterpark on May 2, 2023. Keep an eye on our social media platforms for further...

Posted by Navarre Family Watersports on Saturday, April 29, 2023

Navarre Family Watersports is an exciting and adventure-filled destination for water enthusiasts of all ages. Located in the beautiful coastal town of Navarre, this family-owned and operated watersports company offers a wide range of activities to satisfy everyone’s cravings for fun on the water. From jet ski rentals (125 USD for one hour) to paddleboarding (25 USD + tax for one hour) and kayaking adventures (20 USD + tax for one hour), Navarre Family Watersports has it all.

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or a leisurely day out on the water, their experienced and friendly staff will ensure a memorable experience. With top-notch equipment, stunning natural surroundings, and a commitment to safety, Navarre Family Watersports is the perfect choice for an unforgettable aquatic adventure.

Additionally, there are many vacation rentals near Navarre Family Watersports, offering a convenient and comfortable stay for visitors.

Navarre Family Watersports

Address: 8671 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566, United States

Website: Navarre Family Watersports

Opening hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm (daily)

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2. St. Michael's Brewing Company

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by St. Michael's Brewing Company on Wednesday, January 25, 2023

St. Michael’s Brewing Company is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in Nevarre. Located in the heart of town, this craft brewery offers a unique and inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. With a wide variety of handcrafted brews on tap, including traditional ales, lagers, and experimental seasonal flavors, there’s something to please every palate. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide you through their selection, ensuring you have the perfect beer experience.

Whether you choose to relax in their cozy taproom or enjoy the sunshine on the outdoor patio, St. Michael’s Brewing Company promises a memorable and refreshing outing for beer lovers.

St. Michael's Brewing Company

Address: 2199 FL-87, Navarre, FL 32566, United States

Website: St. Michael’s Brewing Company

Opening hours: Mon: 4pm - 9pm; Wed - Thu: 2pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 12pm - 8:30pm (closed on Tue)

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Are you covered?

Have a worry-free holiday and purchase an affordable travel insurance to cover your needs during your trip. Atlas Travel Insurance provides two plans you can choose from, depending on the type of trip you’re going on, so that you get the extensive coverage you need if something goes wrong.

3. Escape Zone 60

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Thinking about doing an escape room?? Check out what our guest are saying: "Well worth the trip" Our family did the "...

Posted by Escape Zone 60 Navarre on Thursday, September 21, 2017

If you are traveling with your friends or family, a visit to Escape Zone 60 is a must. This establishment offers several escape rooms where you will be required to work with your team in order to solve puzzles. It is an exciting 60-minute activity that will surely make your trip memorable. You can try “The Houdini Escape” while you are here, which is one of the newest escape rooms in the facility.

Escape Zone 60

Address: 9540 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566, United States

Website: Escape Zone 60

Opening hours: 1pm - 10pm (daily)

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4. Gulf Breeze Zoo

Two macaws -Gulf Breeze Zoo, Gulf Breeze, Florida, USA-8a
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Britt Reints used under CC BY 2.0

Located about a 10-minute drive west of Navarre is the Gulf Breeze Zoo, a 50-acre (20.2-hectare) zoo, perfect for all animal lovers. This zoo may be small compared to others, but it is well maintained and has a large variety of animals. The zoo has big cats, reptiles, savannah animals, birds, gorillas, rhinos, hippos, a petting area, and more.

The zoo’s closing hours vary, depending on the time of year, but it always opens at 9 am. From January to February, and from October to December, the zoo closes at 4 pm. And from March 1st to September 30th, the zoo closes at 5 pm. Admission prices vary greatly depending on the age of the guest, and what kind of pass is purchased. There are also discounts available for military members and groups, so consulting the ticket prices on the zoo’s website is a good idea. The zoo is host to many events, such as birthday parties, as well as Halloween and holiday season special events.

Gulf Breeze Zoo

Address: 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Website: Gulf Breeze Zoo

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5. Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center on Saturday, July 31, 2021

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center is located right off of Gulf Avenue when you get to Navarre Beach Marina Park’s barrier island. As its name suggests, the center specializes in the health of sea turtles, but they also are invested in the well-being of tortoises, crab, and other marine life. It is one of the best things to do at Navarre Beach. Guests have fun interacting with the variety of sea animals they would not normally get to see at a traditional zoo. The facility is especially great for children to learn about the importance of conservation and what humans can do to help and improve the lives of sea turtles and other marine life.

The facility is open from Tuesday through Friday, from 12 pm to 4 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is 5 USD per person, military and seniors over the age of 65 are 4 USD.

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Address: 8740 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566

Website: Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

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6. Panhandle Butterfly House

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Panhandle Butterfly House & Nature Center Inc. on Saturday, May 8, 2021

For a relaxing encounter with nature, the Panhandle Butterfly House is the place to go. This facility is home to native species of Florida butterflies that soar through the open exhibit, feeding on plants and colorful flowers. Caterpillars can also be seen as they venture on their journey from squishy little larvae to beautiful butterflies. The butterfly house is open from Thursdays to Saturdays, from 10 am to 3 pm, from May to August, and also holds a special event in October, to celebrate the migration of Monarch butterflies that occurs during that time.

Guided tours of the facility are available when scheduled 10 days in advance, for a minimum of 10 people. There is a minimum donation of 2 USD per person that is suggested when visiting the facility.

Panhandle Butterfly House

Address: 8581 Navarre Pkwy; Navarre, FL

Website: Panhandle Butterfly House

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7. Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise (from USD 90.0)

See one of nature’s most graceful creatures in action, on an open-air catamaran, during the Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise. This two-hour cruise will take you through the clear waters of the Gulf, while playful dolphins swim and leap beside you. Admission to the cruise starts at 27 USD for adults and 15 USD for children, ages 4 through 12. Children 3 years and younger have free admission. Cruises require at least 12 guests to set sail, so, should that requirement not be met, your cruise will be canceled or rescheduled.

Dolphin cruises take place in the morning, mid-day, and evening. The company also holds cruises that feature the Blue Angles air show, and 4th of July Fireworks shows. The catamaran has bathroom facilities, as well as a bar and food items for sale.

Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise

Address: 400 Quietwater Beach Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Website: Pensacola Beach Dolphin Cruise

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3-Day Pensacola Sightseeing Pass

Duration: 1 to 3 days

8. Navarre Beach Marine Science Station

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Navarre Beach Marine Science Station on Sunday, October 27, 2019

This fun science museum is located right off Gulf Boulevard when you arrive at Navarre Beach Marine Park. This former ranger station was turned into an environmental center in 2008 by some marine science students that wanted to help the community better learn about their environment, around them. Today, the center is the consistent host to thousands of students and regular community members that come to learn about Pensacola’s local marine life.

Guests can enjoy interactive activities that are also highly educational and inspiring. The center also hosts summer camps, birthdays, and guided beach tours. They have everything you need to enjoy some fascinating marine science.

Navarre Beach Marine Science Station

Address: 8638 Blue Heron Court, Navarre, FL 32566

Website: Navarre Beach Marine Science Station

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9. Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach Florida sand
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user The222 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Of course, one of the easiest and most versatile activities is to simply visit Navarre Beach, itself. The shore, with its dunes and white sand, makes for lovely scenery, along with the clear Gulf waters. Year after year, Navarre’s beaches are named among the best in the country and if you visit, you’ll see why. Guests are welcome to bring beach sports equipment with them, along with food and drinks. Just remember to clean up properly after yourselves. Take a right turn at Gulf Boulevard, after taking the Navarre Causeway to the barrier island, and the Navarre Beach Pier will be right on your left.

Navarre Beach Pier

Address: 8579 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566

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10. The Club at Hidden Creek

Golf Tournament 2013
Source: Photo by Flickr user UrbanPromise used under CC BY 2.0

As one of the Panhandle’s best golf courses, the Club at Hidden Creek is a must for golf enthusiasts. The club features an 18 hole, par 72 course, that has been acclaimed by golf professionals. The course also features excellent dining at its Creekside Southern Grill, where it serves lunch, dinner, and brunch. Practice driving, chipping, and putting areas are also available. Rates to play on the course vary, depending on the time of day players want to attend, and also by the day of the week. So determining your schedule, and seeing how it compares with their online rates, is a good idea for those wanting to get in some world-class tee time, during their travels.

The Club at Hidden Creek

Address: 3070 P.G.A Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566

Website: The Club at Hidden Creek

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11. Fly the Boat

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Beautiful day today. Come by Navarre Watersports.

Posted by Flytheboat.com on Saturday, March 23, 2019

Time for some high-flying fun with Fly the Boat. This unique Navarre Beach activity lets you, the guest, learn to fly the Weigh Shift Amphibious plane, over the Navarre shores. The Navarre Pier Flight is 99 USD per person, and the Opal Beach Flight is 149 USD per person. The Discovery Flight, which lets guests get an introductory lesson into flying the aircraft, is 299 USD per person. There are also special rates for large groups. Guests can also purchase a video or photos from the wing-mounted cameras if they so desire. These amazing views aren’t available anywhere else, so get them while you can!

Fly the Boat

Address: 8161 2nd St, Navarre, FL 32566

Website: Fly the Boat

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12. Gift and novelty shops

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

We're making progress over here! Long sleeves done!

Posted by Saltwater Cottage on Friday, February 28, 2020

If you love to browse around novelty shops and pick up gifts, you’ll enjoy shopping in Navarre, Florida at Marlene’s Sea Shell City. Souvenirs are affordable and you’ll find postcards. The shop stocks shells, which the kids enjoy. There’s a range of unique items that may attract collectors, like sailboats and ships.

Then there’s Salt Water Cottage which is a cute boutique with jewelry and clothing items. You can also buy books and food items.

Sand Dollar Cottage also stocks interesting gifts, but you can also find local art here. You can pick up cards and novelty items like soap and candles.

Gift & novelty shops

Marlene’s Sea Shell City: 8771 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL

Salt Water Cottage: 8470 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL

Sand Dollar Cottage: 1900 Highway 87, Navarre, FL

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13. Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

dec 1973 gulfarium
Source: Photo by Flickr user foundin_a_attic used under CC BY 2.0

If you thinking about what to do near Navarre Beach, then look no further! Visit Okaloosa Island for the day, Navarre Beach’s closest neighbor. You’ll find the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk which is full of shops and cafes. But the main attraction is the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. The place is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day and Thanksgiving. As much of it’s covered, it’s also a good place for a rainy day.

Watch the dolphin and sea lion shows and marvel at the water world. There are sharks to see as well as seals. You can grab something to eat at the food concessions and watch the beautiful sea otters. Parking is free for your convenience.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Address: 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

Website: Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

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14. The Slippery Mermaid Sushi Bar

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Just felt like "showing off"...some of our favorite menu items @ The Slipp What is your favorite? #letsrollafatone...

Posted by The Slippery Mermaid on Thursday, August 5, 2021

This must-visit sushi bar in Navarre offers dishes that are unique, putting a more playful spin to the basic sushi. If you aren’t a fan of raw fish, then you can try their other dishes. They offer alternatives like veggie sushi rolls or rolls with cooked seafood instead too. Meat-based dishes are also on the menu. Other must-try items here are their delicious cocktails. This restaurant has creative and vibrant interiors that match their off-the-wall menu. Some of the best seats in The Slippery Mermaid Sushi Bar are on their patio, where guests can enjoy outdoor dining with friends and family.

The Slippery Mermaid Sushi Bar

Address: 8779 Navarre Parkway, Navarre, FL

Website: The Slippery Mermaid

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 9pm; Sun - Mon: 11am - 8pm

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15. Farm to Table NWF - Navarre Farmer's Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Farm to Table NWF - Navarre on Wednesday, September 2, 2020

For those who love food, why not spend a Saturday morning at Farm to Table NWF - Navarre Farmer’s Market, one of the best places to eat in Navarre Beach? This attraction offers a wide range of local products - from fresh produce and homemade jams to bread and baked goods. Purchase locally sourced meats, eggs, and even treats for your pets. You’ll definitely fall in love with the small-town charm of Navarre at this market. This tight-knit and welcoming community aims to bring together the best of what Navarre and its surrounding areas and farms have to offer. Help local artisans and businesses flourish and thrive by picking up your cooking supplies at this market.

Farm to Table NWF - Navarre Farmer's Market

Address: 1922 FL-87, Navarre, FL 32566, United States

Website: Farm to Table NWF - Navarre Farmer’s Market

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The gifts from Navarre

Navarre is a community in which many guests wish they could live. Its treasures are its pristine coastal environment and lively ecosystem that are shared very generously with its inhabitants and visitors. Coming here is sure to inspire and invigorate any traveler looking for adventure and relaxation, all in one convenient location. That is the real gift of Navarre.

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Best Things To Do In Navarre, Florida
Source: Trip101.com

Frequently asked questions about best things to do in Navarre, Florida


  • What are the top attractions to visit in Navarre?

    Though it is known as a sleepy beach town, there are plenty of Navarre Beach attractions to explore. One of its top attractions is Navarre Beach that features white sand and dunes. Another must-visit is the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, where you’ll learn more about the preservation of marine life.

  • What are the best outdoor activities in Navarre?

    There are a lot of outdoor activities you can do here, but if you want the best, then you should visit the Okaloosa Island’s Gulfarium and meet dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and other marine life.

  • What are the most popular things to do in Navarre with kids?

    This laidback town in Florida has a lot to offer when it comes to child-friendly activity, such as watching dolphin shows at Okaloosa Island’s Gulfarium, exploring Gulf Breeze Zoo, and learning about sea turtles and other sea creatures at Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Sydney is a dedicated student currently working toward a master's degree in international human rights law. Her boundless curiosity about the world has been a defining trait from early childhood....Read more

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