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Navarre Beach Insider

Navarre Beach Insider

Your Complete Guide to Navarre Beach! Everything You NEED to Know!

  • Navarre Beach Rentals Guide
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    • The Pearl Of Navarre Beach
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    • Fort Walton Beach Cam
    • Destin Beach Cam
  • Things To Do In Navarre Beach
    • Navarre Beach Restaurants
      • Juana’s Pagodas
    • Navarre Beach Campgrounds\RV
    • Navarre Beach Dolphin Cruise
    • Navarre Beach Fishing Charters
    • Navarre Beach Shopping
    • Navarre Beach Marine Science Station
    • Beach Vacation Packing List
    • Navarre Beach Scooter Rentals
    • Opal Beach Florida
    • Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center
    • Navarre Beach Marine Park
    • Gulf Breeze Zoo
    • Crab Island Cruises and Tours
    • Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Things To Do In Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach Scooter Rentals

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Navarre Beach Scooter Rentals

Navarre Beach is undeniably among the best beaches in the nation. And unlike popular opinion, you can actually get enough of swimming on the beach. Now, what’s left to do?

Navarre Beach Activity Schedule

Twelve miles of pristine white shoreline is also perfect for strolling and enjoying scenic outdoor activities. It is an ideal environment for riding along the waterfront on a scooter or bicycle.

The cool wind in your face and thrill from traveling at a faster speed will give you a revitalizing experience every time. And to top it all, the views! Navarre Beach is one of the most beautiful in the country, so it’s no surprise there are miles of great biking paths where you can go for a ride.

Locals and tourists alike have long enjoyed exploring the natural beauty and beach towns by using bikes. The nearby bike trails are safe and breathtakingly beautiful. It is, without a doubt, one of the very best ways to experience Navarre Beach and beyond!

Navarre Beach Scooter and Scooter Coupe Rental Directory

We have compiled a list of Navarre Beach Scooter Rentals for you to choose from!

1. Sage Scooter Company

Sage Scooter Company has the largest rental fleet in scooters on Navarre and Pensacola Beach. The company is the exclusive dealer for Wolf Brand Scooters in the Navarre Beach area. It features 20 brand-new, top-of-the-line scooters. Aside from hourly, daily and weekly rentals, it also offers group discounts. Sage also offers free delivery in Navarre and Pensacola Beach.

Website: sagepaddleco.com
Address: 8228 Gulf Blvd Building #2, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone Number: (850) 972-1234

2. Scooter Hut Rentals

The Scoot Coupe has fully automatic transmission, twist and go / steering wheel controls, two-person seating, and safety features that make them the perfect street-legal vehicle for tourists and can be driven by anyone 18 or over with a valid driver’s license.

Website: www.scooterhutrentals.com
Address: 4 Casino Beach Boardwalk, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
Phone Number: 850-530-7342

Navarre Beach Scooter Hut Rentals

3. Good Times Rentals

Good Times Rentals gives tourists access to beach cruiser bicycles or Yolo electric bicycles. You can enjoy biking along beach areas and beachside communities.

Website: www.goodtimesfl.com
Address: 34990 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Suite 351, Destin, FL 32541
Phone Number: 850-240-5280

Navarre Beach Scooter Rentals Good Times Rentals

4. FantaSea Scooter Rentals

FantaSea Scooter Rentals makes ScootCars and Scooters available for locals and tourists to have an easy way to get around the beautiful beaches of Destin, South Walton, and Sandestin. Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis and eye protection is required while operating a scooter or scoot car.

Website: www.fantaseascooters.com
Address: 1646 Scenic Gulf Dr, Destin, FL 32550
Phone Number: 850-654-7772

5. Coastal Cruisers – Navarre Beach Scooter Rentals

Coastal Cruisers offers an impressive selection of beach cruisers, kids’ bikes, tandems, sport-comfort, hybrid, all-terrain, and road bikes. It also has scooter rentals for you and your families.

Website: www.coastalcruisersdestin.com
Address: 12605 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Phone Number: 850-543-6146

Visitors always say riding is the most fun and memorable activity of their trip. And locals are surprised to find such an amazing experience right in their own backyard.

We hope you find this Navarre Beach Scooter Rentals useful in planning your trip. We also welcome suggestions on where to get scooters and bikes and where the best biking trails are in Navarre!

There is no doubt you’d be interested in this activity, but in case you would like other options, we organized a list of Things To Do in Navarre Beach.

And it goes without saying, make sure to check your locks and wear your helmets while riding!

Where are the best trails around Navarre?

Fort Morgan Road Trail and Rattlesnake Ridge Trail are two of the most favored bike trails around Navarre, Florida.

What should I bring on my bike ride?

A basic repair and maintenance kit, water and a light snack, cash or credit card, personal identification, and a cellphone are just the basic things you should bring with you on every bicycle ride.

Filed Under: Navarre Beach Resources, Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Uncategorized

Opal Beach Florida

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One of the Emerald Coast’s most beautiful and underrated attractions, Opal Beach Florida offers gorgeous scenery on the Santa Rosa Island between Navarre Beach and Pensacola, Florida. This beautiful beach sits on the northern point of Santa Rosa Island, a barrier island along the Gulf Coast of Florida.

Navarre and Pensacola Beach Activity Schedule

This little known beach was created in 1995 when Hurricane Opal flattened the dunes to create a smooth, pristine paradise of sugar-sand beach. What makes it more unusual is that this secluded beach offers flush toilets, drinking water, outdoor showers, picnic shelters and great fishing. if you thought Navarre Beach was pleasantly uncrowded your are going to be amazed by Opal Beach.

This stunning stretch of beach, which is the longest continuous stretch of protected beach in Northwest Florida, has a length of approximately 8 miles. With its sparkling white quartz sand, which frequently squeaks underfoot, Opal Beach is an excellent choice for long strolls or, if swimming is more your style, for splashing around in the warm waters that lap against its shores.

How Do You Get To Opal Beach?

You may need a car, scooter or bicycle to get there. Highway 399 hugs the beach between Pensacola and Navarre Beach as you go West to East.

The entrance to the beach is located along Highway 399 on both the Gulf side and Santa Rosa Sound side. the drive down to Opal Beach is scenic and a fantastic experience on its own.

Click Here For GPS Directions
Opal Beach Map

Opal Beach Fees

According to the National Park Service website:

An entrance pass is good for one to seven days at all locations. Interagency passes waive all entrance fees. Frequent visitors may be interested in the park’s annual pass which provides access to the national seashore during normal operating hours for twelve months from the date of purchase. Educational groups should visit our Educational Programs page for educational fee waivers.

Park Annual Pass………………………………………………….$45

Per person (pedestrian, cyclist, etc.)……………………….$15
Motorcycle…………………………………………………………..$20
Private vehicle (capacity <15)…………………………………$25
Private vehicle (capacity >15)……$7 per person; up to $25

Commercial Groups

Per vehicle (capacity 6 or less)….$25 plus; $10 per person
Per vehicle (capacity 7 to 25)………………………………….$40
Commercial Bus (capacity 26 or more)…………………..$100

Free Entrance Days

Fees are waived at Gulf Islands National Seashore including Opal Beach Florida on the following days:

  • Apr 17, 2021: First Day of National Park Week/National Junior Ranger Day
  • Aug 4, 2021: Great American Outdoors Act Signing Day
  • Aug 25, 2021: National Park Service Birthday
  • Sep 25, 2021: National Public Lands Day
  • Nov 11, 2021: Veterans Day
  • Jan 18, 2022: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

For an up to date list of fees to Opal Beach, visit the National Park Service Fees page. You can buy a digital pass here.

Get A Digital Pass

Opal Beach Hours

Parking Lots along Hwy. 399 are closed from sunset to sunrise.

Opal Beach Facilities: 8:00 a.m. to sunset

Facilities

Opal Beach has flush toilets, drinking water, outdoor showers, picnic shelters, great fishing – and plenty of opportunities to observe nature.

  • 24 Pavilions
  • 5 Restrooms
  • Toll Booth during Season
  • 10 Pavilions Available for Rent
  • Restroom & Concessions
  • Unlimited Parking

Beach access at 32A, 33A, and 36A do not have restrooms, changing stations, or pavilions.

Parking

Parking should be straightforward and several lots are available within walking distance of the beach. Keep in mind that the lots along Highway 399 are closed between sunset and sunrise. Beach access at 32A, 33A, and 36A have limited parking.

Opal Beach Parking
Source: GulfBeachWeddings.com

Opal Beach Campground

There is no overnight camping specifically on Opal Beach. Going back towards Pensacola there are a couple of RV and campgrounds listed below:

Pensacola Beach RV Resort 

850-932-4670

17 Via De Luna DrivePensacola Beach , FL 32561USA

Fort Pickens Campground

Fort Pickens Campground is situated on Santa Rosa Island, a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore south of Pensacola and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Visitors enjoy the site for its recreational activities, historic sites and unique white sand beaches. They do offer online booking.

For campground and pavilion information and reservations call 850-934-2622.

Opal Beach Weddings

Opal Beach is available to be reserved for weddings. Gulf Beach Weddings has an excellent resource with up to date information.

Permits are required at a flat $125 rate (*Please note $25/car is not included in the cost of the Permit for ‘Opal Beach – Main Gate’ location).  The fee includes includes sites PL1, PL7, and PL8 (Beach Access 36A, 33A, and 32A).  It costs an additional $225 for ‘Pavilion A’ inside Opal Beach’s main gate which includes pavilion rental & parking from 8am to sundown.  Beach access at 32A, 33A, and 36A have limited parking and do not have Restrooms, Changing Stations, or Pavilions.

Opal Beach Florida Facilities and Pavilions
Source: GulfBeachWeddings.com

Receptions

There are 24 Large Pavilions organized in 5 groups and labeled A through E. Each group has one restroom and four picnic pavilions with four to six tables in each.  They are not bolted down and and can be shuffled for your specific setup. Only two of the Four pavilions in each group can be reserved. Or move your reception down to Juana’s Pagoda’s in Navarre Beach. They have several spaces that can accommodate large groups.

Opal Beach Rentals

You may be looking to rent one of the pavilions for a party or you may be looking to rent a vacation rental close to Opal Beach. We will cover each category below.

Vacation Rentals

You won’t find condo or single family home vacation rentals close to Opal Beach. That is the beauty of it. There is almost no development on that beach. We have written an exhaustive piece covering Navarre Beach VRBO and other vacation rental listings. Obviously Pensacola and Navarre Beach have hundreds of rentals. If you want to get really close then a beach home on the most western edge of Navarre Beach may be your best bet. These homes are not cheap and are beachfront to their own beautiful, sparsely populated beaches so you may not even want to leave.

Sundunes condos at 7979 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, Florida is the last condo complex as you go West on Highway 399 out of Navarre Beach. You want to find house numbers that are less than 7979. That means you are getting closer and closer to Opal Beach.

Check VRBO for Vacation Homes

Pavillion Rentals

24 pavilions are available but only 10 pavilions available for rent. The rest are on first come first serve basis. Your best bet is to call for pavilion information and reservations at 850-934-2622.

Hotels Near Opal Beach Florida

Obviously, there are lots of hotels in Pensacola Beach, but if you want to get really close your choices are little more limited. The Springhill Suites By Marriott Navarre Beach is likely the closest but you will pay up during peak seasons. If you are looking for less expensive options and will have a car to get to the beach there are more options. See our Navarre Beach hotels guide for all of the options.

Springhill Suites By Marriott Navarre Beach
Address: 8375 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone: (850) 939-0010

Summerwind Resort
Address: 8577 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone: (855) 421-0234

Opal Beach Reviews

We thought these were some good representative review off of TripAdvisor

Opal Beach has covered pavilions where you can cook on grills (bring your own supplies and make reservations), let the kids frolic on the sand and in the water and enjoy the beauty and majesty of mother nature.

Laurence S via TripAdvisor.com

Opal Beach is a gorgeous piece of white sand and clear water. The complex has pavillions, bathrooms, outside showers for rinsing off and daily lifeguards. There are no concessions or vendors. It’s part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and there’s a $25 entrance fee which is good for 7 days. It’s our favorite beach in Florida.

MoldenMusic via TripAdvisor.com

we have been going to opal beach since it opened. it’s a national park so there is an entrance fee – we have lifetime passes – there are showers and bathrooms and pavilions and a lifeguard during the summer season. the rangers are always friendly – but ranger renay has retired – we really enjoy the fact that we can sit under the pavilion so we don’t have to drag a beach umbrella. the sand is beautiful and white. there may be one thing to complain about… for some reason there are very little shells on opal beach 😉

Joe_the_beau via TripAdvisor.com

Summary

Opal Beach Florida is one of the many wonderful beaches that comprise the Gulf Islands National Seashore. As is true of the other beaches that make up this preserve, it is known for its pristine appearance and wonderful natural beauty. The sands of Opal Beach are as white as the clouds, and they contrast wonderfully with the azure waters of the shoreline.

Enjoy Opal Beach’s large dunes that line the shoreline, with a hiking and biking trail on the other side and take advantage of the public restrooms and showers, as well as the picnic pavilions. Make sure you have your supplies for waterside picnicking, there are no food outlets anywhere nearby!

Is Opal Beach Free on Sunday?

No, Opal Beach is not free on Sunday. However there are several National Park holidays during the year when it is free: First Day of National Park Week/National Junior Ranger Day; Great American Outdoors Act Signing Day; National Park Service Birthday; National Public Lands Day; Veterans Day; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Where Is Opal Beach?

Opal Beach Florida is located on Santa Rosa Island between Navarre Beach and Pensacola Beach, Florida along Highway 399. You will travel west on Highway 399 from Navarre Beach or East if you are coming from Pensacola.

What County is Opal Beach In?

Opal Beach is Santa Rosa county Florida. Santa Rosa county extends East to West on Santa Rosa Island to encompass Opal Beach Florida on the map.

Filed Under: Navarre Beach Resources, Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Uncategorized

Walton County Beaches

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South Walton Beaches

Best Walton County Beaches: 5 Places You Won’t Want To Miss

Nestled against Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, Walton County beaches boast 26 miles of brilliant white sand beaches, emerald waters, and 16 vibrant beach communities, all of them with their own personality and architecture. Each of the communities within South Walton Beaches offers luxe accommodations, trendy art galleries, award-winning dining, and electric shops.  Check out what is happening using out Fort Walton Beach cam page.

It hosts outdoor activities within the four state parks, 15 rare coastal dune lakes, a state forest, and the Gulf of Mexico. South Walton Beaches also happen to be some of the best on earth, ample affairs that boast empty sweeps of sand, ideal for clearing the mind and tickling the toes.

We have compiled a catalog of South Walton Beaches, listed geographically from west to east.

Miramar Beach

Located next to Destin, Miramar Beach takes on much of that city’s look and feel, with an abundance of high-rise condominiums and shopping along US 98. It boasts scenic beach roads, classic surf shops, and fabulous restaurants like Bistro Bijoux, a hidden gem with top-class cuisine. Despite its nostalgic vibe, Miramar Beach features ultra-modern amenities. Beachfront homes, resorts, and condos are all options for accommodations.

Activities within the neighborhood include Jet Ski rentals, parasailing, and shopping galore at one of the nation’s largest designer outlet centers, Silver Sands Premium Outlets.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful Miramar Beach, you can check this Miramar BeachCam.

Miramar Beach Walton County
Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach Deck

Seascape

Seascape, another Walton County beach, is perfect for outdoor lovers and active vacationers. This upscale getaway offers tennis courts, swimming pools, bike and walking trails, a full-scale fitness facility, and a championship golf course. Seascape also hosts two top-rated restaurants, Whale’s Tail and Cabana Cafe. Above all, guests enjoy more than 2,000 feet of sugar-white sand along the Gulf of Mexico.

Sandestin

Sandestin is the largest resort destination in South Walton. It features miles of pristine beaches and a number of championship golf courses, high-rise condos, rental homes, as well as a vast array of dining, retail, and entertainment options. It offers approximately 1,600 accommodations to choose from. This 2,400-acre property is also home to 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, and a 113-slip marina. With golf as a top attraction, golf courses in Sandestin stretch from the Gulf to the Bay.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful Sandestin, you can check this Sandestin BeachCam.

Sandestin Walton County Beach
Sandestin Beach Golf Green
Sandestin Beach Bike Bridge

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is named for the tallest dune in the preserve. Its dunes rise like a ship’s sails over soft sand beaches and the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It park boasts 1,640 acres of the coastal ecosystem, making it a nature lover’s paradise. You can discover rare coastal dune lakes, quiet beaches, old-growth longleaf pines, sand pine scrub, and lots of wetlands within the preserve.

Topsail Hill also offers three miles of pristine beaches and is a bird-watching and hiking paradise.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Cyclists
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Ranger Choice Program
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Beach

Dune Allen Beach

Dune Allen is a place where lake and beach unite. Dune Allen surrounds Lake Allen and Oyster Lake, two of South Walton’s rare coastal dune lakes. These coastal dune lakes are so rare that they are only found on the South Walton Beaches and remote portions of Africa and Australia.

The history of Dune Allen is apparent in its architecture. Among the towering new beach homes are little concrete cottages tucked amid the dunes. These harken back to the days when Dune Allen was a popular holiday spot. Dune Allen is also home to walking trails and numerous beach access points.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful Dune Allen Beach, you can check this Dune Allen BeachCam.

Dune Allen Beach
Dune Allen Lake
Dune Allen Coastal Lake

Gulf Place in South Walton Beach

Gulf Place boasts a vibrant artist colony and three beach walkways. Splashing fountains, park benches, tree-lined streets, footpaths, and an amphitheater complement the town center’s location directly across from the Gulf of Mexico. In addition, Gulf Place is a short stroll away from community pools, golf, shops, and diners. The area often hosts live music and other events throughout the week for your entertainment. It also offers 200 options for vacation rentals, perfect for your whole gang or a romantic escape.

Gulf Place
Gulf Place
Gulf Place Art

Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach is geographically the largest beach neighborhood in South Walton, touching both the Choctawhatchee Bay to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south and stretching from Sandestin to Inlet Beach. Whether you want to shop, eat, lounge on the beach, or paddleboard and bike, a stay in this beach neighborhood has you covered.

Not only is this beach neighborhood bustling with activity, but it’s also full of history. Originally founded in 1910 along Hogtown Bayou, Santa Rosa Beach is home to the historic community of Point Washington where you’ll find the Wesley Mansion, built in the 1890s in what is now Eden Gardens State Park.

Blue Mountain Beach

With an elevation of 65 feet above sea level, Blue Mountain Beach is the highest point in all of South Walton. This quiet beach paradise was named for the Lupin flowers that bloom along its coast, which create a stunning contrast to the sugary white beach. Two rare coastal dune lakes, Draper Lake and Big Red Fish Lake, complete this heavenly setting.

Blue Mountain Beach is one of the least populated beaches along Scenic Highway 30A, and it radiates a low-key and laid-back atmosphere. The small-town atmosphere fuses with the elegance and luxury of the Emerald Coast. For this reason, it beckons to visitors searching for peace and quiet, as well as adventurers, artsy types, and beach lovers.

Blue Mountain Beach
Blue Mountain Beach
Blue Mountain Beach

Grayton Beach

Grayton Beach is the first beach community established in South Walton, sometime in the late 19th-century. The town has been able to maintain the cozy character with narrow tree-lined streets and friendly people with funky art galleries, antique and specialty shops, a general store, and the infamous Red Bar.

The Grayton Beach dune trail is one of the most scenic in the area, circling sand dunes, skirting the coastal dune lake, and cutting right through a dense scrub hammock. With the public dock on scenic Western Lake, kayaking or canoeing offers great exploring opportunities.  A list of Walton County beaches would not be complete without it.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful Grayton Beach, you can check this Grayton BeachCam.

Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach Sunset

Grayton Beach State Park

Grayton Beach State Park is one of the the most popular parks in Florida, with massive dunes, winding trails, abundant wildlife, and shimmering Western Lake.

This 2,228-acre coastal park boasts a coastal dune lake that you can explore via kayak or YOLO board. It has trails that wind through the dunes, that wind through and then disappear behind a hump of sand, begging to be explored. It also boasts a sweet shore, a seemingly endless expanse of powdery, pure-white-sand bordered by clear, emerald colored waters.

Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park Fishing
Grayton Beach State Park Kayaking

WaterColor Walton County Beaches

Watercolor is one of a handful of planned “New Urban” communities that define Scenic 30A. The picturesque neighborhoods and storefronts integrate with our beautiful natural landscape. Elegant homes line the beach next to the stately WaterColor Inn, and residential streets fan out into the beautiful coastal forest of oaks, pines, magnolias, cypress and palmetto.

The Town Center extends north and south of Scenic 30A. It’s a lively area that hosts all types of events, from art shows, to wine tastings, to kid-centered fun. Here, you can rent a bike, visit a gallery, do some shopping or grab a delicious meal.

WaterColor Beach
WaterColor
WaterColor

Seaside

Seaside is the picture-perfect little town and one of the lesser known Walton County beaches where you can reach every shop, restaurant, art gallery, and more by foot or bicycle. You’ll delight in discovering the unique shops, beachfront accommodations, galleries, and more in Seaside. This South Walton beach is the most famous of them all. Park the car and rent bicycles to explore this wildly successful pioneering town, featured in the 1997 motion picture The Truman Show.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful Seaside Beach, you can check this Seaside BeachCam.

Seaside Beach
Seaside
Seaside

Seagrove

Seagrove Beach is perfect for nature lovers seeking a pristine retreat and uncrowded environment. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and more in this quaint town with Old Florida charm. Swimming and sandcastle building were once the most popular pastimes at Seagrove Beach since there weren’t many commercial ventures in the Seagrove Beach area. It also offers unique restaurants and shops, as well as a pristine mile-and-a-half long beach that encircles a small cove.  Another Walton County beach find.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful Seagrove Beach, you can check this Seagrove BeachCam.

Seagrove Beach
Seagrove Beach
Seagrove Beach

Deer Lake State Park

Deer Lake State Park is a 1,920-acre park that shares its name with the coastal dune lake within its boundaries. This park features easy access to the beach via a boardwalk across the dunes. Picnicking, swimming, and fishing are popular activities. Visitors may see splashes of color from wildflowers or some of the many species of resident or migratory birds and butterflies.

Deer Lake State Park
Deer Lake State Park Beach
Deer Lake State Park

WaterSound

WaterSound Beach is a thoughtfully planned town that responds to its unique geography and climate. Each residence within gated WaterSound Beach has access to a distinctively designed swimming pool and gathering area, as well as direct access to the beach via paths, boardwalks, and bridges.

The trails and pedestrian bridges linking the various neighborhoods of WaterSound Beach were built to protect the dunes, while still allowing visitors to appreciate the delicate beauty of the wetlands and conservation areas.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful WaterSound Beach, you can check this WaterSound BeachCam.

WaterSound Beach Foot Bridge
WaterSound Beach Resort
WaterSound Beach Bridge

Seacrest

Seacrest is a true getaway, featuring sugar-white sand and turquoise waters. With tranquil beach views, boutique shopping, and upscale dining, this community offers a central gathering space. Grab a bite to eat and a cup of coffee at Seacrest Sundries, the local grocery store, before spending the day wandering through Seacrest’s shops and riding bikes along the Timpoochee Trail.

Alys Beach

Alys Beach is a groundbreaking community located on the Gulf of Mexico. It exudes romance, beauty, and charm.  Clean, white sands bathed by gentle waves and clear blue waters. The beach at Alys offers opportunity for relaxation, sport, or play surrounded by the most spectacular views in the Gulf of Mexico. Its iconic white walls, lush greenery, and intimate walkways are the very height of luxury.

If you want to see a live feed of the beautiful Alys Beach, you can check this Alys BeachCam.

Rosemary Beach

The expansive greens of Rosemary Beach welcome groups of family and friends, and are adorned with public art as well as host to a weekly farmer’s market. Exploring deeper along the winding streets of Rosemary Beach will reveal a treasure trove of inspired architecture, as well as a scattered and delightful collection of sculptures from artists around the world.

This neo-traditional beach community mixes New Urbanism and West Indies style with pristine beaches, a bustling town square, and award-winning restaurants. Rosemary Beach was named one of “America’s Most Romantic Small Towns” by CNN, which comes as no surprise to anyone who’s wandered its winding paths and cobblestone streets, or dined al fresco in its welcoming patios and courtyards.

Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach
Rosemary Beach

Walton County Beach Permit

Walton County issues a variety of Beach Driving Permits, Charter Fishing Permits and Dogs on the Beach Permits for Walton County landowners and/or residents.  Rules for applying for and receiving a permit are outlined and dictated by the Walton County Beach Activities Ordinance 2019-05.

If you wish to receive a permit, each permitting processes has its own set of qualification and procedures that must be followed. For detailed information, view the Walton County Beach Activities Ordinance 2019 26 page.

Additionally, each permitting process comes with it own set of application opening dates and deadlines for applying.  As these dates arise, the links to the online applications and printable applications will be available under the headings below.

For a high-level overview, please see the Beach Driving and Charter Fishing Permits 2019 fact sheet.

BEACH FLAG REMINDERS

Double Red Flag: Water Closed, all water activity is prohibited
Red Flag: High Hazard, knee-deep limitation
Yellow Flag: Moderate Surf/Currents
Green Flag: Calm Conditions
Purple Flag: Dangerous Marine Life
White/Blue Flag: Temporary Technical Issues – Text SAFETY to 31279 for updates when this occurs.
For current conditions and flag status, you can text FLAG to 31279 at any time.

For more information about safety measures during this time of the pandemic, visit South Walton’s COVID-19 Travel Updates. This site is regularly updated.

 

Filed Under: Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Uncategorized

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

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NAVARRE BEACH SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTER

NAVARRE BEACH SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTER

The Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center (NBSTCC) is a non-profit conservation center that has the primary aim to conserve and protect threatened and endangered sea turtles through community education and partnered research. It is a largely volunteer-run organization operating a 2,010 square foot education center open to the public year-round.  You may want to get up to speed on sea turtles before your trip.

Navarre Beach Activity Schedule

As a mission-driven organization, NBSTCC resources are focused on three key components: conservation, education, and research. It provides accessible and fun public education; creates conservation initiatives that provide meaningful public engagement with tangible outcomes; and participates in partnered research seeking long-term solutions to benefit sea turtle survival and our shared marine environment.  You will also want to check out the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station while your are there since it is right across the street.

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center Front
Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center Back

NAVARRE BEACH SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTER ATTRACTIONS

  • Sweet Pea, the resident sea turtle
  • Interactive exhibits
  • Jellyfish Aquarium
  • Seahorse Habitat
  • Grumpy the Lionfish
  • Artificial Reef Aquarium
  • Tortoises, Terrapins and Sea Turtles
  • Scavanger Hunts
  • Seamore Gift Shop
  • Shark Tooth Treasure Hunt​

NBSTCC Turtle
NBSTCC Jellyfish

EDUCATION 

Sea Turtles

Learn about the 7 species of sea turtles and those found in the Florida Panhandle.

Sea Turtle Nesting

Take a look at local sea turtle nesting including video, photos, and FAQs.

NBSTCC Turtle School

The center is working to expand online educational modules. You can see new topics at NBSTCC Turtle School here.

Other resources

Find out the importance of sea turtles to marine ecosystems.

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center Education
Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center Education

CONSERVATION INITIATIVES

  • Trash-Bash
  • Responsible Pier Initiative
  • Borrow Bin Project
  • Education Presentations
  • Partnered Research Projects

NBSTCC Trash Bash
NBSTCC Borrow Bin

VOLUNTEER AT NAVARRE BEACH SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTER

As a largely volunteer-operated organization, the role of volunteers at the NBSTCC is exceptionally important to its mission and daily operations.

The center has various year-round and seasonal volunteer opportunities including those inside the conservation center, in outreach, or projects where you can work from home. You can learn more about volunteering and fill out an application by visiting NBSTCC’s Volunteer page. If you still have questions, you can get in touch with the center’s Volunteer Manager, Nicole, at volunteers@navarrebeachseaturtles.org.

Navarre Beach Activity Schedule

GENERAL INFORMATION

Website: navarrebeachseaturtles.org
Address: 8740 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566, United States
Phone: +1 850-684-3347
Email: info@navarrebeachseaturtles.org

Opening Hours

Noon to 4 pm; Tuesday through Saturday

Holiday Closures

  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Eve
  • Christmas Day
  • New Year’s Eve
  • New Year’s Day

COVID-19 UPDATE

While visiting during COVID, NBSTCC is requiring guests to use face masks/coverings. Complimentary masks are available for guests. There is no registration process and it is open to walk-ins. The center is operating at a 50% capacity, which is 20 guests at a time. A waitlist will be utilized at the door.

Other Info

  • Free parking on site.
  • Shoes and shirts or coverups are required.
  • Most areas are wheelchair accessible.
  • Smoking is prohibited.

Check out our post on Things to do in Navarre, FL for a list of other great activities while you are visiting the Navarre Beach area.

Filed Under: Navarre Beach Resources, Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Uncategorized

Navarre Beach Marine Park

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NAVARRE BEACH MARINE PARK

Navarre Beach Marine Park

Navarre Beach Marine Park is one of the premier recreational and leisure destinations on Santa Rosa Island. It aims to promote the appreciation, conservation, and understanding of the marine ecosystem of coastal Florida through education and service. Marine Park’s shining white sands are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and seashell-hunting. It also provides opportunities for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and marine-biology and conservation education abound.

Navarre Beach Activity Schedule

Also known as “Florida’s Playground,” Marine Park is often the first destination for visitors of Navarre Beach. It is the connecting point between the Gulf of Mexico and Santa Rosa Sound, with activities below and above sea level. The Marine Park is open to the public free of charge, from dawn ‘til dusk daily.

 

NAVARRE BEACH MARINE PARK ATTRACTIONS

Navarre Beach Marine Science Station

Navarre Beach Marine Science Station is an excellent place to learn about marine life, watersheds, and the important relationships between them.

Thousands of students from across Florida and the Gulf Coast come here to learn through hands-on activities from touch tanks to dolphin rescue. Families and visitors of all ages can also take part by registering in advance for vacation activities. Private tours of the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station are now available and offer an up-close and personal experience.

You can also find more information from our article about the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station.

Navarre Beach Marine Science Station

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

The Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center is a working conservation and education center that aims to conserve and protect threatened and endangered sea turtles through community education and partnered research. It is a mainly volunteer-run organization open to the public year-round. Through the doors of the NBSTCC, guests enter the main pool exhibit featuring a 15,000-gallon saltwater pool, home to Sweet Pea, a non-releasable green sea turtle, and ambassador-in-residence of the NBSTCC.

Navarre Beach Activity Schedule

At the Shanna Litterst Education Center, Pumpkin, a Diamondback Terrapin, takes the lead. Meet sea horses, and tackle the magnetic puzzle wall. Your journey through the center will create a desire to conserve and protect our shared marine life that is home to sea turtles and so much more.

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary and Artificial Reefs

The Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary and Artificial Reefs consists of 3 separate reef areas off the shores of Navarre Beach Marine Park. Two sites are in Santa Rosa Sound with 105 reef trees and one is in the Gulf of Mexico with 78 trees for a total of 183 individual reef trees placed at the 3 sites. Each tree consists of 3 or 4 branches to provide more reef surface area.

Designed for both snorkeling and diving, the park includes two reefs in Santa Rosa Sound and one in the Gulf of Mexico. Informational kiosks stand at the beach near each reef.

Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary and Artificial Reefs

 

AMENITIES

  • The park is home to five different beach access points, the three primary points on the gulf side of the park, and two additional, smaller access points on the Santa Rosa Sound side of the park.
  • Two of these five access points also have diving reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving.
  • It has a roughly one-mile long path for walking, running, and bicycling.
  • A dozen pavilions with picnic tables and coal-fueled stoves are available for picnics and outdoor meals.
  • All five beach access points have public restrooms.

Navarre Beach Activity Schedule

DIRECTIONS

Address: 8739 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566, United States

The park is located at the intersection of Gulf Boulevard and the Causeway Road in Navarre Beach. After crossing the bridge into Navarre Beach, turn left on Gulf Boulevard.

If you are looking for other things to do in Navarre Beach check out our article on exactly that.

Filed Under: Navarre Beach Resources, Things To Do In Navarre Beach

Gulf Breeze Zoo

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Gulf Breeze Zoo

Gulf Breeze Zoo

The Gulf Breeze Zoo is an award-winning wildlife park in Gulf Breeze, FL and home to more than 800 animals from around the world. Visitors are given a chance to hand-feed giraffes, get up close and personal with the interactive petting area, join an alligator feeding, or take the best selfies in the free flight Australian aviary. It also offers a guided Safari Train ride through the 30-acre African preserve featuring rhinos, hippos, Western lowland gorillas, and Sumatran orangutans.

With a mission to help solve the world’s continually changing wildlife concerns, the Gulf Breeze Zoo collaborates with other zoos and field experts to support wildlife conservation through public education, captive breeding programs, habitat preservation, and providing financial aid and assistance to projects in the wild.

Gulf Breeze ZOO MAP

Gulf Breeze Zoo Map

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

Sloth EncounterSloth

Sloth Encounter Time – 11:00 am and 2:00 pm
Cost: $40 per person weather permitting.
All ages permitted.

You’ll get around to feed and learn about these gentle creatures and discover that while they’re slow-movers, they are loaded with personality.

Giraffe Encounter

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the giraffe house and a meet and greet with the zoo’s resident herd of reticulated giraffe.

Tour participants will journey into the keeper access area and spend time visiting and feeding the giraffe. Your guide will explain what makes this threatened species so unique, how they are managed and cared for at the Zoo, and their status in the wild.

GiraffeGiraffe Encounter Time – 1:30 pm daily
Duration – 20 minutes
Cost: $25 per person
Not suitable for children under 6.

Hippo Encounter

Go behind-the-scenes at the new Kiboko River Station at the Gulf Breeze Zoo. Enjoy exclusive access to the Hippo habitat, where dedicated animal care specialists will introduce you to two Nile hippos, the world’s third-largest land mammal, and share specifics about their daily routines, care, training, unique behaviors, and diets. Guests will enjoy feeding the hippos while learning about active conservation efforts in the wild to protect them.

Hippo Encounter Times – 11:30 am daily
Cost: $30 per person
Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate.

FARM & HANDS ON ANIMALS

Enjoy feeding and petting goats, sheep, and all your farmyard favorites.

Gulf Breeze Zoo Farm

GIRAFFE FEEDING

Get up close to these amazing animals and even feel their tongues as they take romaine leaves from your palm. Giraffe feeding available daily during regular hours. The feed can be purchased in the gift shop or from the Giraffe Hut.

Gulf Breeze Zoo Giraffe Feeding

BUDGIERY ADVENTURE AVIARY

Walk into the zoo’s special free-flight aviary and let the adventure begin! You can feed these gentle, colorful birds as they perch on your hand. Budgie Feed Sticks are available at the Gift Shop for $1.75 each.

Gulf Breeze Zoo Budgiery Adventure Aviary

SAFARI EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE

Watch rhinoceros, deer, and antelope roam free on the zoo’s 30-acre preserve. From the train, you will get an up-close view of Gorillas, Orangutans, and huge Nile Hippos. Train ride tickets never expire and may be purchased at the Gift Shop or Restaurant for $4.00.

Gulf Breeze-Zoo Safari Express Train Ride

ELEVATED BOARDWALK

On the boardwalk, you can watch roaming herds of antelope, deer, and rhino. Also, enjoy a great view of the orangutans and gorillas on their island habitats.

elevated boardwalk

ALLIGATOR FEEDING

Alligator feeding opportunities are available seasonally from April through October weather permitting.

Gulf Breeze Zoo Alligator Feeding

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What forms of payment does the Zoo take?

All forms of credit, debit cards, and cash. Personal checks are not accepted.

Do you offer group rates?

Discounted rates are available for groups of 15 or more people. Please see Group Rates for more information.

Does the train ride take you through the entire zoo?

No. The Zoo is a 50-acre facility, and the first 20 acres must be walked to be enjoyed. The train ride boards from the Train Depot and will take you on a guided tour through the 30-acre free roaming preserve.

Can I ride the train if I have a stroller, wheelchair, or wagon?

The train is wheelchair accessible, but strollers and wagons must be parked in the designated areas upon loading the train.

Can we feed the animals?

Yes! Cups of animal feed are available at the ticketing counters for a nominal fee. You can feed the animals in the designated feeding areas including pigs, goats, sheep, llamas, waterfowl, turtles, and giraffes.

Is the zoo open on Sundays?

Yes! The Zoo is open 363 days a year! However, it is closed on Thanksgiving Day and limited hours on Christmas Day.

How much is the Gulf Breeze Zoo?

Admission Only 2020 Prices
Adult (13-64) $20.95
Senior (65+) $19.95
Children (2-12) $15.95
Under 2 FREE
Military and Group of 15+ receive $1 off each ticket
* Military ID Required

How far is Gulf Breeze from Pensacola?

Gulf Breeze is 5.44 miles from Pensacola going northwest and 7 miles (11.27 kilometers) by car, following the US-98 route. Gulf Breeze and Pensacola are 11 minutes apart, if you drive non-stop.

Does Pensacola have a zoo?

The Gulf Breeze Zoo is a 50-acre zoo located in Gulf Breeze, Florida and is considered Pensacola’s zoo since it is the closest to Pensacola.

How far is Gulf Breeze Florida from Destin Florida?

There are 39.90 miles from Destin to Gulf Breeze going west and 41 miles (65.98 kilometers) by car, following the US-98 route.  Destin and Gulf Breeze are 56 minutes far apart, if you drive non-stop.

If you are interested in learning more about the Gulf Breeze Zoo, feel free to check the Most Asked Questions.

GULF BREEZE ZOO GENERAL INFORMATION

Website: www.gbzoo.com
Address: 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Phone: 850-932-2229
Schedule:
January 1 – February 29: Open Daily 9 AM – 4 PM
March 1 – October 31st: Open Daily 9 AM – 5 PM
November 1 – December 31st: Open Daily 9 AM – 4 PM
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Look at our things to do in Navarre Beach for more family friendly activities in the Navarre, Gulf Breeze and Pensacola area.

Filed Under: Navarre Beach Resources, Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Uncategorized

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